John William Mitchell


John William Mitchell was the 17th mayor of Calgary, Alberta.

Early Life

Born in Cambridgeshire, England in 1872, Mitchell arrived in Calgary in 1891. He had a job with a dry goods business then later with the lumber firm of W. Stuart and Company.

Political Career

In 1905, Mitchell was elected to Calgary City Council as an Alderman representing the original Ward 3. He served as alderman for five years before successfully running for mayor. As an alderman, Mitchell spent time as Chairman of both the Fire and Finance Committees.
Mitchell was elected mayor in December 1910 and held office from January 2, 1911 to January 2, 1913. In June 1911, Calgary City Hall was opened by then leader of the opposition Robert Borden. Mitchell would also be the president of the Alberta Urban Municipalities Association in 1911-1912.
Mitchell would again become Alderman in 1915, however he would resign on November 22, 1915 to enlist as a member of the 82nd Battalion for active overseas service.

Later Life

Mitchell was a member of the Central Methodist Church. As a longtime member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, he was elected Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Alberta. Mitchell died in 1952 in Vancouver, British Columbia at the age of 80.