Alexander Shepherd (public servant)

Alexander "Boss" Shepherd (1835 – 1902) was an American politician and businessman, most notably serving as the Vice-President of the Board of Public Works in Washington, D.C., from 1873 to 1874. He is considered by many to be the "father" of modern Washington, D.C., due to his significant efforts to modernize and improve the city's infrastructure after the Civil War.

Born in Washington, D.C., Shepherd rose through the ranks of local politics after a successful career in plumbing and real estate. He spearheaded a massive public works program that paved streets, installed sewers, provided gas lighting, and landscaped parks. This initiative drastically transformed the appearance and functionality of the capital city, which had been in a state of neglect and disrepair.

Shepherd's aggressive and often controversial methods involved circumventing bureaucratic processes and incurring substantial debt to fund his projects. While admired for his vision and effectiveness, he faced criticism for alleged corruption and financial mismanagement. An investigation into the Board of Public Works led to its dissolution in 1874, and Shepherd was forced to resign.

Despite the controversy surrounding his tenure, Shepherd's contributions to Washington, D.C., are undeniable. His work laid the foundation for the city's growth and development into a modern metropolis. He is remembered as a powerful and transformative figure in the city's history, albeit one whose legacy remains complex and debated. After leaving public service, he engaged in mining ventures in Mexico, where he ultimately died in 1902.