The famous road house at Weehawken, of which Mr. Kelly is the proprietor, is one of the most notable political headquarters of the Democracy of New Jersey, while its owner is everywhere recognized as one of the most skillful of political leaders. He has filled with credit every office of any importance in the gift of the Town of Weehawken. In 1871 he was elected Town Poormaster, and was re-elected for 1872-73. Some fourteen years ago he was elected to the Town Council. and was made its Chairman. He is also a Freeholder. He served for fourteen years as Chief of Police of Weehawken. distinguishing himself for his efficiency in this office, as he has in every position which he has held. Subsequently he was also elected Mayor of Weehawken, and was one of the most popular and progressive mayors in the history of the town. For six years he was President of the School Board, and he reigned as a king in the hearts of the children on account of the many treats and pleasant surprises which he contrived and carried through to enliven the drudgery of school-work, and make the thought of school less obnoxious to the little ones.

In the councils of the Democratic party Mr. Kelly has been no less prominent and energetic. Continuously during the twenty-nine years since 1871 he has been a member of the Hudson County Democratic Committee, and during the same time has been an active member of the Executive Councils. His influence as a political leader has been felt throughout New Jersey as well as in the City of New York.

It must also be emphasized that Mr. Kelly is distinctly the founder of St. Lawrence's Parish, Weehawken, which is now one of the most thriving parishes in the State. It was upon his suggestion that Colonel E. A. Stevens gave one-half of a block of land to this parish, while Mr. Kelly's influence brought other gifts, in addition to his personal generosity. He was also largely instrumental in securing to Weehawken its handsome model school-building, a large and finely appointed brick structure. He is charitable, and every Christmas during the last fifteen years he has seen that every poor family in Weehawken has had a good dinner.