Percy J. Benbough

Who was Percy J. Benbough?

Percival "Percy" James Benbough was an American Republican politician from California.

Percy Benbough was born 1884 near London, England and came to San Diego when he was four. At first he ran a grocery store and men's clothing store. After his father's death he ran and expanded his father's mortuary business.

Benbough was elected councilman and served during 1913–1917, where he was also superintendent of the fire department. He ran for mayor in 1927 but lost. In 1931 Benbough was appointed police chief, where he transferred people to break up cliques to help fight corruption then existing in the police department. After only three months as chief he resigned, due to frustration in removing entrenched corruption.

Benbough was elected mayor of San Diego in 1935 and reelected 1939. Part of his accomplishments as mayor was to help prepare the city for World War II. He died in office on November 4, 1942, the only San Diego mayor to die in office. Benbough is entombed at Cypress View Mausoleum.

Benbough and his wife Grace Legler Benbough had two sons. She was born December 8, 1881 and died October 12, 1961 in San Diego.