John Christian Bullitt (Boyle)

John Christian Bullitt (1821-1902) was a prominent Philadelphia lawyer, businessman, and civic leader best known for drafting the "Bullitt Bill" of 1885, which reformed the government of the city of Philadelphia.

Bullitt was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to Henry Bullitt and Anne Christian Fry. He studied law and was admitted to the Philadelphia bar in 1843. He quickly established a successful legal practice, specializing in corporate and real estate law.

Beyond his legal career, Bullitt was deeply involved in business and civic affairs. He served as president of the Pennsylvania Railroad, demonstrating his influence in the burgeoning railway industry. He was also a leading figure in the movement to reform Philadelphia's corrupt and inefficient municipal government.

The Bullitt Bill, formally known as "An Act for the Better Government of Cities of the First Class," consolidated executive power in the hands of the mayor, granting the office significantly more authority over city departments and finances. This centralized system aimed to curb corruption and improve efficiency. While controversial at the time, facing opposition from those who benefited from the old system, the Bullitt Bill was ultimately passed by the Pennsylvania legislature and signed into law in 1885. It had a lasting impact on the structure and operation of Philadelphia's government.

The "Boyle" in parenthesis refers to his second marriage to Therese Boyle. Bullitt’s contributions to Philadelphia earned him lasting recognition as a reformer and a key figure in the city's history.