Abel Heywood (February 25, 1810 - August 19, 1893) was an English publisher, radical and sometime mayor of Manchester. Starting work at nine-years old, Heywood was an energetic autodidact who, following a summary dismissal by his manufacturing employer, set up a penny reading room in Manchester. He soon developed the enterprise into publishing a newspaper but refused to pay the stamp duty intended to suppress mass publishing. Even though subject to heavy fines, he continued his commitment to inexpensive newspapers. Despite his radical leanings, his business prospered and he was able to be active in public life, becoming commissioner of police in 1836. He campaigned actively for the incorporation of the city and, once this was achieved, was elected to the council in 1843. He served as alderman in 1853 and was twice mayor. His first term was in 1862-1863, during the cotton famine, then in 1876-1877. He stood unsuccessfully for Parliament for the Liberal Party in 1859 and 1865. A major achievement was his role in guiding Manchester Town Hall to its completion.
