Episode 6: Dr. Levi Ham

Dr. Levi Ham was mayor of South Bend from 1880-1884, 74 years old by the time he took office, and 78 by the time he left. Ham inherited a city that was financially kneecapped and one that was changing in the face of European immigration. He helped deliver Democrats to power, even as the party and its members were touched by controversy.

Part of Series 1: Dawn of the City of South Bend

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01:24    The roots of Polish immigration to South Bend

05:23    Biography of Dr. Levi Ham

10:56    Understanding the shocking election of 1880

18:44    Death of Dr. Louis Humphreys, South Bend’s second mayor

20:15    Controversial charges of electioneering against Ham and the Democrats

22:56    Controversy with local police officer working sneakily for Democratic party

25:08    A burglar steals the mayor’s teeth!

27:36    Massive impropriety found with City Treasurer Clint Rush

33:50    Mayor Ham attends westside ethnic celebrations

35:36    Mayor Ham’s legacy and death

A Bend in Time is presented by The History Museum in South Bend, Indiana and hosted by Aaron Helman. 

Visit The History Museum's website.