Background
Holmes was born in Mölnbacka in Forshaga Municipality in Värmland, Sweden.
Holmes was born in Mölnbacka in Forshaga Municipality in Värmland, Sweden.
Holmes attended the Millbury Street School public school until he was 14.
When he turned 14 Holmes left school and went to work for the Reed and Prince Manufacturing Company of Worcester where he “tended machines”. Holmes also worked at the Brunell Electroplating plant, where he learned the business of Electroplating. In 1909 Holmes established his own Electroplating firm, the Holmes Electrotype Foundry.
Holmes also engaged in the banking and insurance business.
Worcester Common Council and Board of Aldermen
Mayor of Worcester
Holmes was inaugurated mayor of Worcester on January 1, 1917, he served as mayor until January 5, 1920. Massachusetts Governor"s Council
United States House of Representatives
Holmes was elected as a Republican to the 72nd United States Congress and to the seven succeeding Congresses from (March 4, 1931 – January 3, 1947).
Holmes was an unsuccessful candidate for reelection in 1946 to the 80th United States Congress. Holmes returned to Worcester and his electrotype business.
Holmes died in Venice, Florida, his interment was in the Old Swedish Cemetery in Worcester.
Swedes of Greater Worcester Revisited (by Eric J Salomonsson, William O Hultgren, and Philip C Becker Arcadia Publishing 2005).
Holmes was elected member of the Worcester Common Council from Ward 6. In 1913 Holmes became a member of the Worcester Board of Aldermen, serving as its president Holmes served as a member of the Massachusetts Executive Council, Seventh Councilor district from 1925 to 1928.