Charles D. Stebbins (3 Aug 1838–22 Jan 1908) was an American politician and public servant who served as the 37th mayor of Grand Rapids, as well as city treasurer and treasurer of Kent County.
Born in Georgetown, NY, Stebbins moved to Michigan with his family at the age of eight, settling near Sparta in Kent County. He spent his early years as a farmer and became a respected member of the local community before entering politics.
Stebbins began his political career in 1886 when he was elected county treasurer of Kent County, succeeding his brother, Andrew J. Stebbins, in the role. Although defeated in his bid for re-election after one term, he returned to the office in 1890 and served two additional terms until 1894. In 1895, he was elected mayor of Grand Rapids, defeating Republican Charles W. Watkins by a significant margin. After serving a one-year term as mayor, he was elected city treasurer in 1897, holding the position for two years before retiring from active politics. Later, he briefly worked as treasurer for the Board of Public Works.
Stebbins died on 22 Jan 1908, at his residence on E Bridge St in Grand Rapids after a prolonged illness. He was survived by his wife, a daughter, Mrs. Cora (Stebbins) Heazlit, and three grandchildren. Stebbins was interred in the family burial ground near Sparta.
Residence
Stebbins lived at 263 E Bridge St until his death in 1908.
In 1912, the city underwent an address reorganization. After this, E Bridge St was renamed Michigan St NE and the house number was changed to 323.
This new address, 323 Michigan St NE, was located on the north side of Michigan St NE, approximately 100 feet west of Prospect Ave NE until it was demolished, some time after 1978.
On a current map, the historic property can be approximately located to the Daniel and Pamella DeVos Center for Interprofessional Health.
Links and References
- FAILS TO RECOVER, Grand Rapids Press, 1908-01-22, Page 3
- Grand Rapids City Directory, 1912
- Find-a-Grave Memorial: Charles D. Stebbins (1838-1908)
