James P. Maher

James Paul Maher (November 3, 1865 – July 31, 1946) was an American labor union official, businessman, and politician. A Democrat, he is most notable for his service as a U.S. representative from New York, a position he held for five terms from 1911 to 1921.

Early life Maher was born in Brooklyn, New York, one of several children born to Irish immigrants John and Maria Maher. He attended the parochial schools of Brooklyn and graduated from Brooklyn's St. Patrick's Academy. Apprenticed as a hatter, he moved to Danbury, Connecticut in 1887 and was employed as a hat sizer and in other positions on the factory floor. He was elected as a Democrat to the Sixty-second and to the four succeeding Congresses (March 4, 1911 – March 3, 1921). Maher ran successfully for a seat on the council, and was the top vote getter among the candidates. Upon taking office in January 1926, Maher was chosen to serve as mayor. He served until March 1927, when voter dissatisfaction with a significant increase in the municipal budget and the taxes to fund it led to his recall. In 1937, Maher was an unsuccessful candidate for the town council.

Death and burial Maher died in Keansburg on July 31, 1946. He was buried at St. Joseph's Cemetery, Keyport, New Jersey.

Family In 1890, Maher married Mary Jane (Moran) Maher (1867–1937). They were the parents of a son, Charles Maher, who lived in Keansburg.