John Kelly (New York politician)

John Kelly
Member of the U.S. House of Representatives from New York's 4th district
In office March 4, 1855 – December 25, 1858
Preceded by	Michael Walsh
Succeeded by	Thomas J. Barr
Comptroller of New York City
In office 1876–1879
Personal details
Born	(1822-04-20)April 20, 1822 New York City, New York, United States
Died	January 6, 1886(1886-01-06) (aged 63) New York City, New York
Resting place	Old St. Patrick’s Cathedral
Political party	Democratic

John Kelly (April 20, 1822 – June 1, 1886) of New York City, known as "Honest John", was a boss of Tammany Hall and a U.S. Representative from New York from 1855 to 1858. The title "Honest" was given to him during his years as New York City Sheriff, and was more ironic than truthful.

Kelly was able to amass a vast fortune estimated at $800,000 ($17,400,000 in current dollar terms) by 1867 by both ethical and questionable means. In addition, after having his methods questioned and his title insulted by New York City Mayor William Havemeyer, Kelly responded with a lawsuit for libel. On the day of the trial, Havemeyer dropped dead of apoplexy.^[1] He had a questionable reputation and was the subject of a gubernatorial investigation at the time of his death.^[2]