Caleb Smith Woodhull

Biography

Caleb Smith Woodhull, born in 1792, devoted decades to public service and, as mayor of New York City from 1849 to 1851, worked to improve the municipal water supply and fire protection for a rapidly growing metropolis.

He encouraged civic institutions to cooperate on sanitation and education, provided steady leadership during turbulent political times, and was remembered after his death in 1866 for his integrity and quiet resolve.