[2] Their mark can be found on manhole covers and cast iron buildings in Brooklyn, especially around Fulton Avenue and Grand Street, and lower Manhattan.

[1] Brooklyn politics at this time were dominated by Democratic party boss Hugh McLaughlin.

[4] Graft and corruption were widespread practices of the day; although Howell was not personally involved in any scandal, he was widely considered a "mediocre" mayor.

[1] He was a member of the Hanson Place Central United Methodist Church for many years.

[1] Howell died at his home on South Portland Avenue in Brooklyn on January 27, 1897.