Henry M. Beardsley - Politics

Politics

In 1898 Henry Beardsley ran for and won the first of two terms on the Kansas City City Council. Reelected in 1902, he also served on the Board of Public Works where he lobbied for large improvements in the citys' sewer and water systems. In 1900 Beardsley had become a charter member of the Kansas City chapter of the National Civic League as well. At first refusing calls from supporters to stand election for Mayor, in 1906 Beardsley gave in and won handily. As mayor he found some of his efforts stymied by the Pendergast political machine, however he was still able to bring a more businesslike approach to city hall. His biggest achievement perhaps is appointing a board to design a n ew city charter. The new charter was approved by voters in April, 1908. Unfortunately however, in that same election Beardsley was denied a second term as mayor. Nonetheless he stayed involved as a civic leader in a variety of ways. Beardsley was a delegate to the Republican National Convention in 1908 and 1928. In 1910 he helped found the Kansas City chapter of the Society of the Friendless, a progressive organization promoting rehabilitation of prisoners while incarcerated. Speaking at an organizational meeting Beardsley said "Criminals ought to be on the credit instead of the debit side of the state's accounts. A small amount invested in reclaiming these men brings big returns to the state." Resuming his law practice after leaving the mayors office, Beardsley would often do pro bono work for those accused of crimes but could not afford an attorney. Perhaps the most visible legacy of Henry Beardsley in Kansas City is the Liberty Memorial. Beardsley chaired the committee that selected the designer of the memorial.