[1] A noted political and social activist, he also held several important government positions throughout his career including superintendent of the New York Assay Office, Assistant U.S. Treasurer and, most notably, the founder and president of the Bank of New Amsterdam.

It was largely due to his efforts that the modern New York City Fire Department was established replacing the outdated colonial-era volunteer firefighter system.

He received and answered over 4,000 telegrams and directed police and military forces, army officers keeping in close contact with the commissioner and referring to him for troop movements.

While assuming the position of the Superintendent's office, Acton reportedly did not sleep once during the five-day period or did he leave police headquarters with exception to brief inspection tours.

Despite years of opposition,[clarification needed] Acton was instrumental in the founding of the modern New York City Fire Department which replaced the old volunteer firefighter service.

[1] A strong supporter of President Abraham Lincoln and abolitionist movement, Acton was also one of the most important political activists in the city during the post-Civil War era.

[6] In 1887, he was nominated to run as the Republican candidate for the Mayor of New York City but refused to accept due to his own business dealings at the time.

[1] Over one hundred of Acton's letters documenting his career as a member and president of the Board of Police Commissioners are held in the Lloyd Sealy Library's Special Collections at John Jay College of Criminal Justice.