Joseph R. McLaughlin

Who is Joseph R. McLaughlin?

Joseph R. McLaughlin was an entrepreneur and politician from the U.S. state of Michigan, serving as Lieutenant Governor from 1895 to 1897.

McLaughlin was a graduate and alumnus of the University of Michigan, Literary Class of 1877, Law Class of 1879.

Early in 1886 McLaughlin thought he could see a future for electricity and undertook the organization of the Edison Company in Detroit. This company was organized in just six weeks from the time he undertook it. At that time it was the largest Edison illuminating company in the United States except the one at the Pearl Street Station, New York City, and had a capital of $250,000. Organizing this company McLaughlin was its Secretary and Manager during the construction of the plant and the first two years of its operation placing it upon a good paying basis. The Edison General Company recognized his ability as an organizer and made him their general agent for Ohio.

Prior to serving as Lt. Governor, McLaughlin was also a successful real estate developer in and around Detroit, MI. Arden Park-East Boston was originally called the McLaughlin's and Owens Subdivision, the development was platted on June 1, 1892 by McLaughlin and Edmund J.