James J. Lyons

Source: History Morris County New Jersey, Volume II, Lewis Publishing Co., 1914

A leading member of the industrial circles of Morristown, Morris county, New Jersey, James J. LYONS is also prominently connected with the social and moral development of the city. These interests tend to produce a well rounded character, and the high esteem in which he is held testifies to his sterling worth.

His father, also James J. LYONS, was born in county Tipperary, Ireland, and came to the United States in early manhood. He located at Morristown, New Jersey, where he became engaged in the mason contracting business, with which he was identified until his death. He was an ardent supporter of Democratic principles, and held the office of overseer to the poor. He was also actively identified with the conduct and management of the Children’s Home, and aided in many ways to improve conditions throughout the city. His religious affiliations were with the Catholic church. He married Bridget WELSH, and of their twelve children the following named six attained maturity:

Mary,
Catherine,
Margaret,
James J., see forward;
Elizabeth,
William F.

James J. LYONS, whose name heads this sketch, was born in Morristown, Morris county, New Jersey, December 29, 1880. He was educated in the public and parochial schools of his native city, but with a desire to make the most of his opportunities, he continued his reading outside of the schoolroom, and by means of that and the practical experiences of life, he has gained a broad general knowledge. In many respects the success he has achieved in later life is due entirely to his own efforts. He entered the employ of STURGIS Brothers, of Morristown, and with them learned the mason’s trade, then spent two years in New York City following the same occupation. In 1905 he established himself in business on his own account as a mason and general contractor and made his establishment one of the best of his kind in Morristown. He is associated with a number of other important business enterprises, among them being the president of Morristown Automobile Bus Company. Politically he is a firm Democrat and has been prominently identified with public office and public measures, has been president of the Morristown board of health; was elected 1912 as a member of the New Jersey General Assembly and served on the committee of agriculture and agricultural colleges, the printed bills committee, committee for the Home for Feeble-Minded Children and Deaf Mutes. His efforts in introducing bills is phenomenal. He has introduced fifteen bills, twelve of which were enacted into laws, among them being the Lake Hopatcong bill, creating it a public park, and the Fort Nonsense park bill. He was also appointed one of five to form a special committee to investigate insurance companies’ operations throughout the State. In 1913 he was a candidate for State senator, but was defeated by two hundred and thirty-nine votes.

Mr. Lyons married, 1907, Adele E., daughter of Thomas and Mary (KENNEY) MURRAY, of Morristown, and they have had children:

James J. Jr., and
William Thomas.

They are members of the Catholic church, Mr. LYONS is a member of the following named organizations: Knights of Columbus, Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, Fraternal Order of Eagles and the Ancient Order of Hibernians. Throughout his life Mr. LYONS has taken an active and humane interest in the welfare of the poor and insane, and in every way possible has aided in the substantial improvement and advancement of the county, for which the county owes him a debt of gratitude. He has always discharged the duties incumbent upon his position with fidelity, circumspection and energy, and has won the confidence and respect of all with whom he is associated.

This biography was transcribed by John Cresseveur (1949-2003).