Mayor 1866, 1873-1875, 1882-1885
He arrived in Armidale about 1848, married Miss Purves and later gained a position as clerk in the store owned by Gilchrist and Mather on the site where the Richardson store was established. He entered into the business with Robert Scholes, took over the store in the late 1850s and sold it to John Richardson and Company in 1872. Following a retirement period, he opened a business on the opposite side of the street, and kept the new business running until 1888 when he retired. This store later became Braund's store. He accepted a seat on the Local Land Board and died on 27 April 1892, aged 65 years. In reporting his death, the Armidale Express, stated he was 'charitable in the extreme, naturally kind hearted,prone to make warm friends and warm enemies and the most energetic man whoever saw New England'.
He was noted for the role that he took in the coming of the railway to Armidale. Supported by petitions, deputations and the press, he fought for the railway to not only come north through New England but also ensured that it did not by-pass Armidale through Saumarez Ponds to the west of the town. He was mayor to welcome the first train to Armidale in February 1883. He was treasurer of the hospital for forty years; a church warden of the Anglican Cathedral; Worshipful Master of the Masonic Lodge and president of the P.A. and H. Association as well as being involved in the movement for the coming of the railway. He left a widow and grown-up family.
A committee, chaired by the mayor was formed. It was decided to erect a memorial ward at the Armidale and New England Hospital to be called the 'John Moore Ward'. Advertisements were to be placed in the newspaper inviting subscriptions to the fund.