John Cashmore

John Cashmore (June 7, 1895 – May 7, 1961) was an American politician from New York City who served as Borough President of Brooklyn from 1940 until his death in 1961.

Early life Cashmore was born in Brooklyn, New York on June 7, 1895.

Career

Business Cashmore was an aide to the general manager of the New York Edison Company and a furniture manufacturer.

Politics Cashmore entered politics as a member of the New York State Assembly (Kings Co., 5th D.) in 1923. He was later elected to the newly-formed New York City Council, serving as its majority leader from 1938 to 1940. He was also a member of the New York State Democratic Committee from 1938 to 1944.

Cashmore was elected Brooklyn Borough president in 1940, succeeding Raymond V. Ingersoll. He held this position until 1961, though he was unsuccessfully challenged in the 1945 election by George A. Arkwright. He was the Democratic candidate for U.S. Senator from New York in 1952, but was defeated by the incumbent Republican Irving M. Ives. He was a delegate to the 1948, 1952, 1956 and 1960 Democratic National Conventions.

Death Cashmore died in New York City on May 7, 1961. He had been sick for several months.

Personal life Cashmore married Edythe Tenney (1898–1972) in 1926. They had one son, James John Cashmore (1931–1977).

In popular culture The 1974 Harry Chapin song "Cat's in the Cradle" was based in part on John Cashmore's relationship with his son James, written by Chapin's wife (Sandra Campbell Gaston Cashmore Chapin) who was previously married to James John Cashmore 1931–1977