John R. Williams (May 4, 1782 – October 20, 1854) was an American soldier, merchant, and politician who is best known for serving as the first mayor of Detroit, Michigan, after the city's reincorporation. In total, he served as Detroit's mayor for five other terms. He also was a brigadier general in the United States Army during the Black Hawk War. He was an early benefactor of the University of Michigan and served as one of its first trustees.
Early life and education
Born in Detroit, he was baptized as John Williams (he later adopted the "R" in his name to distinguish himself from another John Williams who was living in Detroit at the time). His parents were Thomas Williams and Cecile Campeau, of Detroit's Campau family. His father, who had been active in civic and political affairs, His mother married Jaques Leson in 1790 and lived in what is now St. Clair County, Michigan. Cecile died on June 24, 1805, and was buried in the St. Anne's church cemetery. Raised in his mother's French Canadian community, he spoke and wrote fluently in both French and English. The couple had ten children together.
Career
Military and business career
Williams served in the Territorial Militia from 1796 to 1799 at Fort Marsac in Tennessee. In 1824, Williams wrote the City Charter and served as the first official mayor of the City of Detroit. He was also elected and served as the fourth and thirteenth mayor in 1830 and 1844–1846, respectively.
Mary died on January 18, 1830.
Legacy
Today, a street in metropolitan Detroit bears his name. "John R" Street was named while John R. Williams was still living, which is atypical to the way most roads obtain their name. In fact, Williams gave the road its name himself.