On this date in 1936, Richard J. Daley married Eleanor “Sis” Guilfoyle. Later that year, Richard won his first elected position (as a representative in the Illinois General Assembly) and within 20 years, he became mayor of Chicago, serving until his death in 1976.
Over those 40 years, Richard and Eleanor stood by each other.
Richard J. Daley and Eleanor Daley standing in front of their bungalow at 3536 S. Lowe. RJD_04_01_0029_0011_003
They raised seven children.
The Daley family at Halloween, October 30, 1951. RJD_04_01_0003_0008_010
County Clerk ceremony. Richard J. Daley with his wife Eleanor Daley, their seven children, and Daley’s father (Michael Daley), 1955. RJD_04_01_0008_0002_007
They voted together.
Richard J. and Eleanor Daley at their Bridgeport polling place, 1975. RJD_04_01_0035_0007_008
Richard J. Daley and Eleanor Daley in voting booth, 1963. RJD_04_01_0022_0008_016
They traveled together.
Daley family arrival at Hilo, Hawaii airport for the U.S. Conference of Mayors. Also included are Helene H. Hale, Hawaii County Chairman and Glenn Oda, Pres. of Hawaii Island Chamber of Commerce, 1963. RJD_04_01_0048_0009_005
And together they participated in and contributed to Chicago’s cultural and political life.
Richard J. and Eleanor Daley standing with members of the Illinois Democratic Women’s Club at their luncheon, ca. 1960s. RJD_04_01_0017_0001_013
Eleanor Daley, Richard J. Daley, William Daley, John Daley and others at Mayor Daley’s celebration of 14 years in office as mayor, 1969. Photo: Mart Studios. RJD_04_01_0028_0010_001.
Richard J. Daley and Eleanor Daley with costumed Mrs. O’Leary and cow, 1976. RJD_04_01_0036_0006_003
For more information, see the online list of interviews from the Richard J. Daley oral history Collection, where you can find accounts from friends, family members, and colleagues of the mayor. See also the finding aid (inventory listing) for the Richard J. Daley Collection at UIC Library. The collection is open to the public. If interested, feel free to Ask a Librarian to set up an appointment.