[1] Gourley was born in Juniata County, Pennsylvania in 1838 to a peasant family.

As a child, he was sent early in life to a farm in Pine Township, Allegheny County, Pennsylvania.

Mayor Gourley took office in 1890 and his reputation for hard and honest work served him well in city hall.

His term was noted for the trust it engendered in Pittsburgh residents.

After he left office he served as city controller before his death on May 27, 1899, aged 60.