Family background
John O’Dowd was born about 1807, probably the son of Thomas and Mary O’Dowd. His wife Mary died on 22 May 1840, aged 56. He died on 26 October 1859, aged 52. He was buried in a memorial vault in the Catholic section of Bunnerong Cemetery with Thomas O’Dowd (d.2 December 1855, aged 72), and Mary O’Dowd, (d. 22 May 1840, aged 56).
Occupation & interests
John O’Dowd was the licensee of the Harp and Shamrock, on the corner of York and Market Street from 1836 to 1842. The hotel name apparently changed as O’Dowd later held licenses for the Queens Head in 1840 and 1845, and the Forbes Hotel from 1851 to 1859, both at the same address.
Local government service
John O’Dowd was the Alderman for Brisbane Ward, 11 April 1857 to 21 December 1857.
References
City of Sydney Archives: NSCA CRS 51/607, Demolition photographs, 1900-1949
Society of Australian Genealogists: Primary Records Index
State Records of NSW: Publicans Licences