Crowley, Philip
Philip Crowley, born in Loughmore Co., Tipperary, Ireland; was educated as a surveyor and followed that profession in his native country. Placed in charge of government work in 1847; was offered an important position on the first railroad built in Ireland, now the "Great Western," but declined, preferring to come to the United States, reaching New York July 3, 1849. Employed in building telegraph line from Newburg to Poughkeepsie, N. Y. Located at Pittsburgh, Pa., in the fall of 1849. Was principal of Public school there from 1850 to 1857, and kept books for a coal mining company during the same period. Was married in that city in 1852 to Catherine O'Shaughnessy, also a teacher. Came to St. Paul, with family, May 12th, 1857. Employed in this city in city engineer's department during the summer of that year. In the fall moved to Young America, Carver County, and was elected county surveyor. Located the claim on which town of Norwood now stands. Was stationed at Fort Snelling in fall and winter of 1858 on survey of Minnesota Central Railroad from Minnehaha Falls south to Westcott's Station. At solicitation of General Sibley, moved to Mendota and taught school there from 1859 to 1866, also acting as town clerk. Moved to West St. Paul in 1868, and taught school in what is now the sixth ward of St. Paul, assisted by his wife. Was elected county superintendent of schools for Dakota County, and served from 1870 to 1878, inclusive. Member of first city council of South St. Paul (which then included what is now the City of West St. Paul). Elected mayor of City of West St. Paul, receiving every vote cast at the election. His only daughter, born in Mendota, died in 1881. His wife died in 1891. Two sons, Cornelius M. and John P., reside with him. [Minnesota Territorial Pioneers - Biographical Sketches of Territorial Pioneers - Contributed by Jo Ann Scott]
