Born August 3, 1843, Goodings Grove, Will County, IL; died February 11, 1900, Chicago, IL. Educator, Attorney. Byrne studied law with the firm Spafford and McDaid before graduating from Chicago Law School in 1870 and receiving his State of Illinois Law license in 1871. Prior to moving to Kanasas in 1876 and becoming the editor of the Leavenworth Appeal in 1878, Byrne worked in the Chicago Public School system as a teacher. He moved back to Chicago in 1879 and returned to teaching in the public school system. From 1879 to 1882 he was on the faculty of the Chicago Normal School (now known as Chicago State University) before serving as principal of Fallon School (1882), Auburn Park School, and the Dewey School (1900). During his career Byrne was vocal on the subject of public school reform. Byrne fell ill with anaemia shortly after his appointment to Dewey and passed away on February 11, 1900, prior to taking his post. He was survived by his wife Mary and 4 children.
From the description of John Byrne papers, 1832-1936, n.d. (bulk 1832-1900). (Unknown). WorldCat record id: 373858693
