Ernest Burdette Fisher (5 Dec 1847 – 16 Dec 1920) was an American educator, journalist, businessman, and public servant, who served as the 36th mayor of Grand Rapids.
Born in Binghamton, NY, Fisher spent his early years moving across the Midwest, following his family’s relocation to Wisconsin in 1850. After the death of his mother, Fisher alternated between living with relatives in New York and working alongside his father as a carpenter. In 1866, he moved to Michigan, teaching in rural Gaines and Alpine Townships and selling books between terms, before settling in Grand Rapids in 1869.
Fisher’s career in journalism began with a letter he wrote to the Grand Rapids Eagle that caught the attention of editor Alfred Baxter. He joined the paper as a reporter and quickly rose through the ranks to become managing editor and part-owner. Known for his meticulous reporting and clear writing style, Fisher covered political conventions and local events with an unparalleled thoroughness that earned him respect among readers and colleagues alike. During his nearly 25 years with the Eagle, Fisher helped establish the publication as a trusted, family-friendly newspaper, credited with elevating its reputation for clean and conscientious journalism.
In 1894, Fisher transitioned from journalism to politics, running as the Republican candidate for mayor of Grand Rapids against Democrat Cornelius L. Harvey, Prohibitionist William McBain, and Populist W. W. Howe. He secured the office with a margin of 1,092 votes. His tenure came during an economically challenging period following the Panic of 1893, and his administration focused on fiscal responsibility and supporting local industries. Key achievements included the development of John Ball Park and the acquisition of land for a city market, both of which reflected his commitment to enhancing the city’s public resources. Fisher’s leadership style emphasized collaboration and prudence, and he was widely admired for conducting a clean and honorable campaign.
Fisher’s contributions to education were among his most enduring legacies. He served on the Grand Rapids Board of Education for eight years, including two terms as president. Passionate about public schools, he worked tirelessly to improve educational access and quality, earning recognition for his thoughtful and forward-thinking approach to governance. His involvement in national events, including serving as a commissioner for the 1893 Columbian Exposition, underscored his commitment to representing and advancing the interests of Grand Rapids on a broader stage.
In addition to his public service, Fisher was instrumental in founding the Citizens Telephone Company in 1895, which sought to challenge the Bell Telephone monopoly. As the company’s first president and later secretary, Fisher oversaw its growth into a major competitor, introducing innovative technologies such as automatic dial telephones and expanding service both locally and regionally. His efforts positioned Grand Rapids as a leader in affordable and advanced telecommunications during the early 20th century. He remained active in national independent telephone associations and was a key figure in opposing consolidation with Bell interests.
A devoted family man, Fisher married Fronia F. Rood, a Grand Rapids native, and together they raised nine children, seven of whom survived him. In 1918, Fisher completed the two-volume History of Grand Rapids and Kent County, a comprehensive account of the region’s development. Modest about his own contributions, he instead focused on the broader community and its leaders. Fisher’s later years were marked by declining health, though he remained active in civic and professional affairs until shortly before his death on 16 Dec 1920. Remembered for his integrity, civic-mindedness, and dedication to progress, Fisher left an indelible mark on Grand Rapids as an educator, journalist, entrepreneur, and public servant.
Links and References
- ERNEST B. FISHER: A Veteran Newspaper Worker Retires From Active Service, The Evening Press, 1894-02-19, Page 1
- A STAMPEDE: The Democratic Hosts Were Routed, The Evening Press, 1894-04-03, Page 1
- CITIZENS' TELEPHONE CO.: Directors Chosen--Who Owns the Capital Stock, The Evening Press, 1895-09-11, Page 1
- FISHER RESIGNS HIS TELEPHONE POSITION, Grand Rapids Press, 1914-01-26, Page 12
- E. B. FISHER, ONCE MAYOR, EDITOR AND BUSINESS MAN DIES, Grand Rapids Press, 1920-12-17, Page 22
- The early days hold a lesson, Grand Rapids Press, 1996-02-11, Page 87 (F1)
- Grand Rapids History Center, 054-026-032_009
- Find-a-Grave Memorial: Ernest Burdette Fisher (1847-1920)
