John Savage was born at Glenavy, Co. Antrim in 1848. He worked as an apprentice to a Belfast grocer before beginning a career as a linen merchant. Savage erected Prospect Mill, off the Crumlin Road, and manufactured thread as well as spinning flax.

He was elected as a Councillor for St Anne’s Ward in 1856 and later represented St George’s Ward. During his term as mayor he was knighted by Earl Spencer in Belfast’s Botanic Gardens. From 1872 Savage served as an alderman in the Belfast Corporation.

In 1879 the Belfast Corporation voted to place a portrait of Savage in the Council Chamber of the Town Hall in recognition of his service to ratepayers. The portrait was unveiled on 9 December 1880. Savage is portrayed in the act of addressing the council, holding a copy of the ‘Gas Journal’ as recognition of his role as chairman of the Gas Committee.

John Savage died by suicide on 15 June 1883 at his Ardhill residence. Public shock at his death is reflected in local and national newspaper coverage of the story.