* Fisher resigned just weeks after being elected.
** Bradley died in June of 1881 while serving a second term.
Chiefs from the volunteer era
were originally elected by popular vote of the fireman to serve
for a one year term (beginning and ending in March). In
1871, the Common Council assumed the responsibility of appointing
Chiefs annually with chiefs commonly serving more than one
term. The Board of Police and Fire Commissioners was
established in 1897 and have since that time appointed the
Department's chiefs. Under the boards authority, chiefs may
not be removed from office without just cause.
