John Pridgeon, Junior. was born in Detroit on August 1, 1852, the son of Captain John and Emma Nicholson Pridgeon. In 1871, he joined as a clerk his father"s business of buying, selling, and operating sailing ships and tugs. The family also owned and operated the Detroit & Windsor Ferry.
Pridgeon was educated in the Detroit Public Schools and the Detroit Business University.
In 1876 he became an agent of the Chicago and Grand Trunk line of steamers, stationed at Portuguese Huron, Michigan. In 1879 the line was dismantled and he rejoined his father"s business. After his stint as mayor, Pridgeon diversified his business interests, and in the years 1890 - 1900 served variously as president of the State Transportation Company, president of the Pridgeon Transportation Company, vice-president of the White Star Lincolnshire, vice-president of the Red Star Lincolnshire, and vice-president of the River Savings Bank.
He was elected to the city council as a Democrat. in 1885, and in 1887 was elected mayor of Detroit, serving one term in 1888-1889.
In 1911, Cora sued for and was granted a divorce. John Pridgeon Junior. died in 1929.
Pridgeon was a member of the first Park Commission, serving from 1879 - 1883. He later served as a member of the Police Commission from 1891- 1892.
