Among those citizens who are shaping the destiny and promoting the interests of Pueblo is numbered James Lee Lovern, who is now acting as commissioner of finance and supplies. A native of Missouri, he was born in Callao on the 7th of August, 1866, a son of James and Martha (Mathis) Lovern, who continued their residence in Missouri until 1882 and then removed with their family to Colorado, where they spent their remaining days, both having now passed away. They were the parents of three sons and three daughters.

James Lee Lovern, the youngest of the children, was educated in the public and high schools of Missouri and in the school of experience has learned many valuable lessons. In his youthful days he engaged in newspaper work and has been connected with every department of newspaper publication, devoting twenty-six years to journalism. On his election to the office of commissioner on the 6th of November, 1917—the first office that he has ever consented to fill—he severed his connection with the Pueblo Chieftain, with which paper he had been associated for many years, contributing in marked measure to its success by reason of his long experience and progressive methods. He is now confining his efforts and attention to his public duties, which he is performing in a most capable and efficient manner, endeavoring at all times to give the city a businesslike and economical administration.

On the 11th of February, 1892, Mr. Lovern was united in marriage to Miss Dollie Hindman and to them has been born a daughter, Ruth. He is connected with the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks and the Methodist church, to the teachings of which he loyally and conscientiously adheres.  

Source: Stone, Wilbur Fiske, History of Colorado, volume III.  Chicago: The S. J. Clarke Publishing Company, 1918.

Contributed by Joy Fisher (Dec08)