William H. Kepner

Born in Bern Township, Berks County, Pennsylvania, William and his family moved to Harrisburg in 1823 where his father Samuel built the first steam flour mill in Harrisburg. William adopted and continued the business of his father to much success. During this time, he became involved in municipal affairs and when the town became a borough he was elected a borough councilman. Upon the amendment to the charter to become a city, he was elected by a majority of 330 on April 13, 1860, as the first Mayor.[1][2] During his tenure as Mayor, he fought with City Council over the interpretation of the rules of City Charter, as Council was attempting to pass budgets without consulting him. Thus, Pennsylvania Supreme Court case Kepner v. Commonwealth ensued in 1861, which decided that the Council may create legislation, but if the Mayor is not considered he has no obligation to sign.[3] Mayor Kepner also formally received Edward VII, Prince of Wales as a Harrisburg visitor during his 1860 tour through the US and Canada.[4]