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Thomas J. Pendergast was born in St. Joseph, Missouri,
July 22, 1872. He attended the public schools of his birthplace
until his graduation in 1886, after which he entered the employ of the
Burlington Railroad in a clerical position. He came to Kansas
City in 1888, while in the employ of the Burlington, and remained with
the road for eight years, advancing meanwhile to better positions.
In 1896 Marshal Chiles tendered him the
position of Deputy County Marshal, which he accepted. He held
the place until the conclusion of the County Marshal Chiles' term of
office in 1900, when he was appointed Superintendent of City Streets
by Mayor James A. Reed, which place he now holds.
All during his residence in this city he has
been actively identified with the Democratic party, and has been a
prominent figure in the party councils. As a member of various
City, County, and Congressional Commissional committees, he has
forwarded the interests of the party, where shrewdness and
intelligence, combined with a broad grasp of political affairs, could
be used to advantage. These qualities, combined with the
experience gained in the office of the County Marshal while a deputy,
made him the ideal candidate for the office. His name was
presented for consideration before a convention of the delegates of
his party in 1902, and he was nominated for the office by acclamation.
Mr. Pendergast is an Elk.
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