John Edward Lewis

Born in England in 1868, John Edward Lewis came to Biloxi in the late 19^th century where he would serve as a respected member and official of the Mississippi Pilot Association. As a decades long captain of the pilot boats, Lewis guided ships into and out of the coastal ports and barrier islands of the Mississippi Sound. He was recognized for his civic leadership in recovery from various hurricanes during his lifetime on the Gulf Coast.

Among is most well known and documented achievements was his leadership role in the establishment of a beachfront highway, which today is known as U.S. 90. He also played a prominent role in the creation of the original Biloxi Back Bay Bridge.

Civic minded, John Edward Lewis served as City Alderman at the turn of the 20^th century under Mayor Edward Glennan. Throughout his years, Lewis was recognized as a tireless city leader through volunteer work for many charities and municipal committees. He served as an officer in various social organizations including the Biloxi Elks, Biloxi Carnival Association and the Masonic Lodge. Such were John Edward Lewis’s contributions, that he would be frequently mentioned in local newspapers for his involvement in Coastal life.

Captain Lewis passed away in 1920, but his impact on the Mississippi Gulf Coast will continue to live on.