John Downey

- Short Biography
- Administration
- Personal information
- This Time in California

Biography^*
California's first foreign born Governor, John Downey was born in Ireland in 1827. Although a druggist by profession, he followed the Gold Rush to California and prospected in Grass Valley. Eventually he prospered in business in Southern California, where the town of Downey is named after him. He served on the L.A. Common Council prior to his election to the State Assembly. As Lt. Governor, he succeeded Milton Latham as Governor. Downey's veto of the "bulkhead" bill (which would have allowed ownership of San Francisco's waterfront by a monopoly) made Downey a hero. The issue remained volatile, however, and once, on a visit to San Francisco, he called a man a "bulkheader" and fists began to fly. The fight was broken up when witnesses restrained Downey's opponent, crying, "you shan't strike the Governor!"

Administration under Governor John Downey

- Inaugural Address - January 14, 1860

The Life of Governor John Downey

Born
June 24, 1827
Roscommon County, Ireland

Died
March 1, 1894
Los Angeles, California

Family
First Lady: Maria Guirado