Background
His father, John Speed, moved to Jefferson County in about 1795 and established a farm on Salt River Road (which became Dixie Highway), about 9 miles south of Louisville.
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James Speed
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Career
He was elected to the Kentucky House of Representatives in 1843, and appointed a United States marshal by president Zachary Taylor in 1849. He was served as mayor of Louisville from April 26, 1852 until April 1855. The rules governing the office were confusing, and Speed was actually re-elected by popular vote each year of his term, yet never awarded an election certificate.
Speed argued that his original election meant his term lasted until 1856, but a resolution in 1855 called for a new election that year.
Speed did not run in the election, believing he would remain mayor anyway, but Barbee was recognized as mayor by the city council, overriding Speed"s veto. Speed appealed but ultimately lost at the Kentucky Supreme Court.
In 1856 Speed moved to Chicago, where he spent the remainder of his life. As mayor, he was chiefly concerned with public works projects, such as the water works and street improvement.
