Thomas J. O'Brien (Illinois politician)

Thomas Joseph O'Brien (April 30, 1878 – April 14, 1964) of Chicago was a U.S. Representative from Illinois, 1933–39, 1943–64, and as Cook County Sheriff from 1938 through 1942.[1][2] He was of the Democratic Party.[2] He became the "Dean" of Chicago delegates and played a role in the early career of Dan Rostenkowski.[3]

Thomas J. O'Brien
Member of the U.S. House of Representatives
from Illinois's 6th district
In office
January 3, 1943 – April 14, 1964
Preceded byA. F. Maciejewski
Succeeded byDaniel J. Ronan
In office
March 4, 1933 – January 3, 1939
Preceded byJames T. Igoe
Succeeded byA. F. Maciejewski
Cook County Sheriff
In office
1938–1942
Preceded byJohn Toman
Succeeded byA. L. Brodie
Personal details
Born(1878-04-30)April 30, 1878
Chicago, Illinois
DiedApril 14, 1964(1964-04-14) (aged 85)
Bethesda, Maryland
Resting placeQueen of Heaven Cemetery
Political partyDemocratic

O'Brien died in office of a stroke on April 14, 1964, and was buried at Queen of Heaven Cemetery in Hillside, Illinois.[4]

The T.J. O'Brien Lock and Dam approximately 7 miles from Lake Michigan on the Calumet River in Chicago at the head of the Illinois Waterway is named after Congressman O'Brien.

See also

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References

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  1. ^ "Thomas O'Brien, Oldest in House; Chicago Representative, 85, Influential Democrat, Dies". The New York Times. April 15, 1964. p. 39. Retrieved December 20, 2021.
  2. ^ a b Biographical Directory of the United States Congress
  3. ^ Mr. Chairman by James L. Merriner, pg 93
  4. ^ "Rep. O'Brien, Democratic Leader, dies". Chicago Tribune. April 15, 1964.
U.S. House of Representatives
Preceded by Member of the U.S. House of Representatives
from Illinois's 6th congressional district

March 4, 1933 – January 3, 1939
Succeeded by
Preceded by
A. F. Maciejewski
Member of the U.S. House of Representatives
from Illinois's 6th congressional district

January 3, 1943 – April 14, 1964
Succeeded by