John White

In 1935, there was a head on collision east of Washington in which John White was severely injured, and a difficult recovery ensued.  However, he was not deterred from leaving an indelible mark on his adopted town. The city of Washington experienced its greatest growth under the leadership of Mayor John White.  Assuming office in 1941, the population of

Washington was 2500.  He left the mayor’s chair in 1953, and the city population stood at 4700.  Dedication to the city’s growth and sustainability was Mayor White’s mission. 

John White was born in April of 1885 in Deer Creek.  He came to Washington as a young man and farmed locally.  As a board member of the Illinois Agriculture Association, he also served as president of the Tazewell Service Company for over 26 years.  He held a charter membership in the Kennel Lake Sportsman’s Club.  Prior to his mayoral post, he was acting postmaster in Washington for six months in 1935.  Along with his civic duties, he was a trustee of St. Patrick’s parish for 25 years and a member of the Holy Name Society.

After retiring from farming, Mr. White resided at 101  W. Holland.  Mayor White humbly served our community with passion and foresight.