James C. Connor - Mini-Biography

In the newspaper clipping files, with information by street, at the Evanston History Center, Evanston, Illinois, there were two small pieces of paper which had mini biographies of James C. Connor, son of James Connor, immigrant.  They were cut or torn from some other documents, but those documents were not identified.  Although it is known that all of the information is not correct, i.e., James C. Connor was born in Ireland, not Evanston, the majority of the information is believed to be accurate.

The only item that has not been proved is that he was the builder of St. Mary's Church in Evanston.  In a history of St. Mary's Church, it states that Michael Foley, a resident of the parish, was the builder.

The two typed clippings read:

• 1220 Maple Ave.  Home of James C. Connor for many years.  One of Evanston's pioneer builders.  Village trustee in 1876.  Built St. Mary's Church.  Founder of Connor Hardware store, first at 618 Davis, later at 624 Grove.  He was born in Evanston in 1850s.  Early pioneer family here.

• 1220 Maple Ave.  Home of James Charles Connor, one of Evanston's pioneer builders for more than 40 years.  Son of pioneer James Connor who came to Evanston from Ireland in 1855.  Founder of Connor Hardware store, early and important hardware store here.  Was the builder of St. Mary's church.  A village trustee in 1876.

 Source: Evanston History Center, accessed February 17, 2012