author
Franklin Edson
1832–1904
Best known as New York City’s mayor in the early 1880s, he came to public life after building a successful produce business and leading the New York Produce Exchange. He is also remembered for taking part in the 1883 opening ceremonies of the Brooklyn Bridge.
1 Audiobook
Opening Ceremonies of the New York and Brooklyn Bridge, May 24, 1883
by William C. Kingsley, Franklin Edson, Seth Low
About the author
Born in Chester, Vermont, in 1832, Franklin Edson began his career in business rather than politics. He worked in Albany in his brother’s distillery, later moved into the produce trade, and eventually established himself in New York City, where he became a prominent merchant.
His standing in the city’s business world grew steadily, and he served as president of the New York Produce Exchange. That reputation helped carry him into public office, and he served as mayor of New York from 1883 to 1884.
Edson is especially linked with one of the city’s great civic moments: the opening of the Brooklyn Bridge in May 1883, where he delivered the acceptance address on behalf of New York. He died in 1904, leaving behind a legacy tied to both the city’s commercial life and one of its most famous landmarks.