Michigan
Gov. Chase Salmon Osborn
- January 2, 1911 - January 1, 1913
- Republican
- January 22, 1860
- April 11, 1949
- Indiana
- Purdue University
- Married twice--Lillian Jones, Stella Brunt; seven children
About
Chase S. Osborn, the twenty-seventh governor of Michigan, was born in Huntington County, Indiana on January 22, 1860. His education was attained at Purdue University, however he left before graduating. Osborn established a successful journalism career, and became the owner and editor of several newspapers. He entered politics in 1889, serving as the postmaster of Sault Ste Marie, a position he held four years. He also served as the state game and fish warden from 1895 to 1899, was the state railroad commissioner from 1899 to 1903, and served on the board of regents of the University of Michigan from 1908 to 1911. Osborn won election to the Michigan governorship in 1910, and was sworn into office on January 1, 1911. During his tenure, the state deficit was eliminated; a workmen’s compensation bill was sanctioned; and a presidential primary law was authorized. After running unsuccessfully for reelection, Osborn left office on January 1, 1913. He also was defeated in his bids for the U.S. Senate in 1918 and 1936. Osborn returned to his newspaper interests, and became active in the iron ore prospecting business. Governor Chase S. Osborn, who was the author of several books, passed away on April 11, 1949, and was buried on Duck Island in the St. Mary’s River in Michigan.
Source
Sobel, Robert, and John Raimo, eds. Biographical Directory of the Governors of the United States, 1789-1978, Vol. 2, Westport, Conn.; Meckler Books, 1978. 4 vols.
