Thomas A. Doyle

Thomas Arthur Doyle (March 15, 1827 – June 9, 1886) was mayor of Providence for three intervals (each made up of one-year terms): 1864–1869; 1870–1881; and from 1884 until his death in office in 1886. His eighteen years in office was the longest until Vincent "Buddy" Cianci, over 100 years later.

Early life Thomas Arthur Doyle was born March 15, 1827, in Providence, Rhode Island, to Thomas Doyle and Martha Jones. and even was regarded in his lifetime

Doyle was known for his individuality. He had a reputation for being straightforward and opinionated.

Doyle was a member of the Unitarian church. Doyle suffered a stroke on the evening of June 6, 1886, while still in office. The "entire right side of his body" was reportedly paralyzed. He died at his house on Wednesday June 9, 1886.

On Saturday the 12th, his body was escorted by the First Light Infantry from his home to City Hall, where he lie in state. Thousands of people came to the City Hall to silently pay their respects.

Gilbert F. Robbins was named acting mayor, and he issued a proclamation that on the following Monday June 14, all business in the city should be closed from noon to 3:00 PM. It was moved in 1967 to the intersection of Broad and Chestnut Street.