As the first female mayor of the City of London, Ontario, Jane Bigelow’s is a story that can serve as an inspirational lesson to young women everywhere.
Jane Elizabeth Dillon was born in 1928 and grew up in Toronto with her parents, Edward and Margaret, and a younger brother, David. Her family was able to remain largely unaffected by the effects of the Great Depression, and Jane attended the St. Clement’s School. That competitive environment encouraged Jane to pursue a university education at a time when women seldom followed that path.
Having completed a degree in Physical Education at the University of Toronto, Jane Dillon married Charlie Bigelow in 1954. His career in Chemistry meant the family- now with new additions Ann and David- had to move constantly.
It was during this period, with time spend in Hamilton, Edmonton, Ottawa, New York and Copenhagen, when Jane developed an acute sense of the importance of local government and the responsibility it has to its citizens.
When the Bigelow family settled in London, Jane finally had the stability and time to put her beliefs into practice. Shortly after the family’s 1965 move, Jane won a seat on the Board of Control for the City of London. After years as a civil servant spent working to improve social programs throughout the city, Jane ran successfully to become the Mayor of London in 1972.
While Jane Bigelow’s story of determination and self-confidence is inspiring to any observer, it becomes even more impressive when considering the groundbreaking achievements she has made, and should be known by young women everywhere.
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I grew up with Jane on Ward’s Island,summers. We had a wonderful
relationship. I always wondered what had happened to her.
She sure lived a colourful life.
HELLO, i NEED SOME HELP ! I AM WORKING WITH CITY HALL AND TRY TO HAVE ALL THE MAYORS PICTUREs ON THE WALL. i AM LOOKING FOR jANE bIGGELO’S PORTRAITS AT THE TIME SHE WAS A MAYOR Please help, maybe you know where is she?
Please you can call 519 438 9497 at home or 519 438 7195.at Beta Photos.
Thanks Erica
She is still out and about. The finest London mayor in memory, and the first woman to hold that office (1972 to 1979).
Being a very young teen at the time I was impressed with her spirit and take charge attitude. One of the few politicians I have ever admired. Perhaps she was the inspiration for the saying ” you go girl”
I helped campaign for Jane in London when I was a kid. My sister and I handed out brochures, buttons and flyers every weekend. It was great to meet her and it really helped me out of my shyness.