John Richard Clancy was an inventor, businessman, and politician from New York. He is most notable for his efforts to develop and market standardized theatrical stage equipment, including rigging and fire curtains. He is also notable for his service in the United States House of Representatives for one term.
Early life
Clancy was born in Syracuse, New York on March 8, 1859, the only child of Richard V. and Elizabeth A. Clancy. His father was a partner in the successful Clancy Brothers bakery business, and also served as an alderman for three terms. John Clancy attended the public schools, after which he found work as typesetter for the Syracuse Herald, and then as a stagehand. By the time he was in his early 20s, Clancy was assistant treasurer for the Grand Opera House in Syracuse.
Business career
Having recognized the need for standardized stage equipment as a way to improve productions and safety, Clancy went into the business of manufacturing rigging in 1885. Drawing on his previous theater experience, Clancy invented and made improvements to many items which later became common in theaters, including lightweight sets, lighting, and automatic fire curtains. Clancy later expanded into manufacturing other specialty metal hardware, including brace irons and screw eyes, and was an executive and director of several banks. Clancy also served as vice president of the New York State College of Forestry at Syracuse University's board of trustees, and was member of the Central New York State Park Commission.
Congressman
In 1912, Clancy was elected to the Sixty-third Congress as a Democrat. He served one term,, and was an unsuccessful candidate for reelection in 1914 to the Sixty-fourth Congress.
Later career
After leaving Congress, John Clancy resumed his business activities. During World War I he served on the Governor's public safety committee, and on the state armory commission. In addition, John Clancy managed metal stamping and forging for producing military equipment in five central New York counties under the aegis of the federal War Production Board.
Death and burial
John Clancy died in Syracuse, New York, April 21, 1932. He was interred at St. Agnes Cemetery in Syracuse.
Legacy
Clancy's primary business venture, JR Clancy Company, is still active and continues to supply stage equipment and services to the entertainment industry.
Family
On April 29, 1886, Clancy married Elenora V. Kopp of Cincinnati. They had no children.
