John D. Crimmins Collection

John Daniel Crimmins, Senior, contractor and philanthropist, was born May 18, 1844 in New York City, of parents who earlier had immigrated from Ireland. After graduating from college he joined his father's contracting business, becoming a partner in 1864 and head of the firm in 1873. The firm was involved in the construction of public works, churches, hospitals and other projects and buildings. Mr. Crimmins belonged to and held office in many organizations civic, social, and philanthropic. He was an active member of the Democratic party and served as New York City Park Commissioner, Presidential elector, and member of the New York State Constitutional Convention. Presumably, he was an active member of the Tammany Hall group. A Roman Catholic, Mr. Crimmins worked for the church in a variety of roles, from university trustee to waiter at a Christmas dinner for the poor. Through business contacts and affiliation with various organizations, Mr. Crimmins as guest or host attended numerous public and private functions, many of which involved well known figures of the time. John D. Crimmins died November 9, 1917. SourcesWho Was Who in America. Volume I, 1897 1942 and The New York Times, November 9, 1317, page 13.