Owen McAleer

Who was Owen McAleer?

Owen McAleer served as the 25th Mayor of Los Angeles, California, from 1904 to 1906.

A native of Liskeard, Ontario Canada, McAleer came to Los Angeles, California in 1888. He built the city's first steam boiler and later became a superintendent at Baker Iron Works.

McAleer formed the Republic Iron & Steel Company with Nat Wilshire. He served as vice president and general manager of the firm.

Around the turn of the 20th Century, McAleer entered politics and eventually landed a seat on the Common Council. He rose to becoming mayor in 1904.

He is perhaps best known for establishing the first municipal playground in the city.

After he left the mayor's office, McAleer served a four-year term as a member of the Board of Public Works. He retired from politics in 1920.

Owen McAleer died at age 86 in his home on 401 West 41st Street. He is interred in Angelus-Rosedale Cemetery.