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John A. Poor
Photo: Unknown author Unknown author, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons9

John A. Poor

American businessman (1808-1871)1

John Alfred Poor (January 8, 1808 – September 6, 1871) was an American lawyer, editor, and entrepreneur best remembered for his association with the Grand Trunk Railway and his role in developing the railroad system in Maine. He was the older brother of Henry Varnum Poor of Standard & Poor's, who was his partner in some business ventures.2

From Wikipedia’s article on John A. Poor (this version), CC BY-SA 4.0.

Born Jan 8, 1808, died Sep 6, 1871.1

About

John Poor was an articulate man standing 6 feet, two inches (1.9 m) tall and weighing over 250 pounds (110 kg). He learned the geography and commerce of northern New England during travels as a young man; and developed an early appreciation for the potential of railroads. His commanding presence was enhanced by early speaking experience as a teacher and attorney. He had a unique ability to assemble the necessary resources to build early railroads, although he left the routine work of operations to others.

From Wikipedia’s article on John A. Poor, shared under CC BY-SA 4.0.2

Companies

Early life and education

John Poor was born in East Andover, Massachusetts (now Andover, Maine), to Dr. Silvanus Poor and Mary (Merrill) Poor. He became a school teacher at Bethel, Maine, before undertaking the study of law. He was admitted to the Maine Bar in 1834 and established a law practice in Bangor, Maine, with his brother Henry Varnum Poor. John was inspired by his first viewing of a steam locomotive on the Boston and Worcester Railroad in 1834.

From Wikipedia’s article on John A. Poor (this version), CC BY-SA 4.0.

Career

Occupation: businessperson.4

Personal life

  • BornJan 8, 1808, Andover5
  • DiedSep 6, 1871, Portland6
  • CitizenshipUnited States7

Sources

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