James W. Pope

James W. Pope (1856–1937) was an American lawyer who was the second African American to serve on the Boston Common Council.

Career
Pope was elected to represent Ward 9 on the Common Council in 1880 and was seated on January 6, 1881. He was defeated for reelection in 1881. Pope later blamed his vote to allow the Irish National Land League to use Faneuil Hall for his loss. After leaving the council, Pope moved to the Southern United States. While there, his right leg was amputated after a revolver went off in his pocket. By 1896, Pope was once again living in Boston. From 1929 to 1934, Pope was a master in chancery. Pope was found dead in his Pemberton Square law office on February 15, 1937. It was believed that he had died three or four days prior.

Family
Pope's grandson, Lincoln Pope Jr., served in the Massachusetts House of Representatives from 1957 to 1964. His granddaughter, Doris Pope, was the wife of Herbert L. Jackson.