Cummings, John B.

The following data is extracted from Biography and Genealogy of Western Massachusetts, 1639-1925.

JOHN B. CUMMINGS, of Pittsfield, in legal circles in Western Massachusetts, holds a prominent position and with wide experience in various affairs added to large natural ability, he has risen to noteworthy rank in his profession. Mr. Cummings' public service has given his name more than passing significance to the city, county and State, and he is one of the outstanding men of the day in Pittsfield. He is a son of Peter and Julia (Reagan) Cummings, both now deceased, his father a blacksmith by occupation.

John B. Cummings was bow in Pittsfield February 17, 1878. His education was begun in the local schools, and he later studied in the law office of Harrison H. Chaff, where he covered preparatory work in the classics and the law. He went to the Philippine Islands and entered the Insular Post Service, and served in that connection until he rose to the position of postmaster and later postal inspector, his stay in the islands covering a period of three and one-half years. Mr. Cummings then returned to Pittsfield and read law in the office of Crosby & Noxon. He was admitted to the bar in 1905, but continued in the same office as an associate with the old firm, also with its successors, Noxon & Eisner. In 1907 Mr. Cummings opened his own office and began an independent practice, but, in April of 1908, he formed a partnership with Judge Burns, this being prior to the elevation of that distinguished lawyer to the bench. In 1913 the firm became Burns, Cummings & Rosenthal, then in September of 1921, when judge Burns was elected to the judiciary, the firm became Cummings & Rosenthal, its present form.

The public service of John B. Cummings began with his election to the Common Council of Pittsfield in 1907, in which body he was active for three years. His ability and devotion to the public good brought his name into more than usual prominence in the community and eventually led to his election as a member of the Massachusetts State Legislature. Serving in the Assembly of the State in the year 1910. Mr. Cummings made a record which was universally commended and of which his constituency was proud. After that year he was not active in public affairs until 1919, when he was made a member of the Pittsfield Board of Education. Each subsequent term he has been reelected to this position and now serves on the executive committee of the board. Mr. Cummings is a member of the Massachusetts Bar Association; the Berkshire County Bar Association; and is identified with the Fraternal Order of Eagles. He is a member of St. Mark's Roman Catholic Church.

John B. Cummings married Emily Walsh, of Hinsdale, September 25, 1912, and they are the parents of two children: John Walsh and Rosemary. They reside at No. 370 West Street, Pittsfield.

Source: Biography and Genealogy of Western Massachusetts, 1639-1925

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