J. H. Swan, Sr.

He was a prominent and well-known civic and fraternal figure in Bristol during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Here is what historical records reveal about him:

• Masonic Leadership: Beyond serving as Worshipful Master of King Lodge No. 461 for three consecutive terms (1895–1897), his dedication to the fraternity continued for decades. For many years into the 1910s and 1920s, he served as the Secretary for both King Lodge No. 461 and the St. Omer Commandery No. 19 (Knights Templar).
• Civic Service: He was heavily involved in local government, serving as a Justice of the Peace for Bristol with his office located at City Hall. In this capacity, he frequently officiated local marriages.
• Profession: He was a career painter and paperhanger. He owned and operated the business "J. H. Swan & Son," which was located on Broad Street near 19th.
• Residence: City directories from the era consistently list his family residence on Anderson Street (specifically 1113 and 1116 Anderson).