Hans Heinrich von Orelli

Hans Heinrich von Orelli (10 November 1715 – 4 July 1785) was a Swiss merchant and politician who served as the first mayor of Zurich from an immigrant family (1778–1785). He was also a member of the Small Council and an economic expert.

Early life and family

Orelli was born on 10 November 1715 in Zurich to Hans Heinrich von Orelli, a member of the Council, and Anna Lavater. He was the nephew of Daniel Orelli. In 1742, he married Barbara von Orelli, daughter of Leonhard, a merchant.

Career

Orelli received his commercial training in Zurich, followed by study trips to Germany, the Netherlands, and France. He spent time at a branch of his father's raw silk factory in northern Italy.

He worked as a merchant and served as representative of the Konstaffel in the Small Council from 1757 to 1777. From 1760, he held the position of treasurer. In 1778, Orelli became the first mayor of Zurich from an immigrant family, serving in this capacity until his death in 1785. He also served as president of the Commercial Directorate and was recognized as a major expert in economics.

Death

Orelli died on 4 July 1785 in Zurich.