John Purroy Mitchel
1879–1918 (age 39)
Mayor
Biography
John Purroy Mitchel, elected mayor of New York City at a young age, championed government reform, municipal efficiency, and public health initiatives during his tenure. Known as the “boy mayor,” he endeavored to modernize the city's institutions in a spirit of progressive civic stewardship.
His commitment to the public good and to service during World War I reflected a deep sense of duty that earned him lasting respect, even as his courageous life ended far too soon.