Branches of Baltimore History

Edward Johnson (1769-1829) was elected in 1808 as the third mayor of Baltimore, replacing Thorowgood Smith.  Johnson was subsequently re-elected in 1810, 1812, 1814, 1819 (when George Stiles resigned) and 1822.  In the summer of 1812, with war against the British imminent, an angry mob of Baltimoreans trapped and tortured a group of tories at city jail.  Mayor Johnson arrived in order to quell the situation, advising the prisoners and negotiating with the mob.  His stance against the instigators was an important political decision as Baltimore, and the United States, moved away from vigilantism.  He is also noted for owning the brewery in which Mary Pickersgill sewed the Star-Spangled Banner, America’s most significant flag.

A doctor by trade, Johnson began his medical practice the same year he entered politics.  During a serious yellow fever outbreak in 1819, Johnson donated $150.00 of his own money for the publication of a medical report on the epidemic.  His efforts proved central in ending the citywide health crisis.  This historical tablet (placed across the street from Carroll Mansion) marks the location of his former home.  Brewer’s Park (recently replaced with a hotel) was once next door.

39° 17′ 18.30″ N 76° 36′ 15.89″ W

Thorowgood Smith (1744-1810) was a merchant-shipper that established himself in Baltimore during the 18th century. He owned 26 acres of land in what is now known as the Union Square neighborhood. In 1799 Smith’s stately manor, Willow Brook, was completed making it one of the finest abodes in the city. Financial hardships occurred when Smith’s shipping investments went south and he was forced to sell the mansion. Around 1802 Smith moved into a small home on the edge of town that still stands today. Situated in Shot Tower park, the House at 9 North Front Street is maintained by the Women’s Civic League.  Smith was the city’s second mayor, holding the post from 1804 to 1808.  When he died in 1810, his estate was left to his wife and then nephew, John Donnell. Donnell began dividing the property into lots for sale as the harbor and adjoining communities began to thrive.

Smith wore personally designed eyeglasses attached by a ribbon that wrapped around the top of his head. This distinctive look was used by Smith to avoid pinching the bridge of his nose. The portrait is located in room 215 of City Hall. It once hung in the Peale Museum.