Ralph Webster Cole (c.1819 - 29 Jul 1855) was an American lawyer, newspaper editor, and politician who served as the second mayor of Grand Rapids. He was involved in multiple civic roles, including postmaster, city solicitor, and supervisor.
Early Life and Education
Cole was born in 1819 in Oxford, Grafton County, New Hampshire. He attended Dartmouth College and later completed his education at Union College in Schenectady, New York, where he studied law. Following his studies, he moved to Grand Rapids, in 1846 and established a legal practice.
Career
In 1849, Cole was appointed Postmaster of Grand Rapids by President Zachary Taylor’s administration. During this period, mail service in the city was expanding as Grand Rapids grew in population. He also contributed to journalism, co-editing the Grand Rapids Daily Eagle for one year alongside Aaron B. Turner. The newspaper, originally a Whig-aligned publication, later shifted its political stance in the 1850s.
Cole was actively involved in local government. In May 1850, at the first session of the Grand Rapids Common Council, he was appointed city solicitor. He served multiple terms in this position (1850, 1854, and 1855), providing legal counsel for the city.
In April 1851, Cole was elected mayor of Grand Rapids, succeeding Henry R. Williams. His administration focused on municipal improvements, including street grading, sidewalk construction, and fire protection measures. The city council also approved an ordinance permitting the introduction of gas lighting in Grand Rapids. In addition to his mayoral duties, Cole was elected as a city supervisor in 1854.
Cole was an active member of the Whig Party and participated in state-level politics. In 1851 and 1852, he was appointed to the Michigan Whig State Central Committee. He also attended the Whig State Conventions, serving as a delegate from Kent County.
Death and Legacy
On 29 July 1855, Cole died of smallpox at his residence in Grand Rapids. His death was noted by the Grand Rapids mayor’s court, which passed resolutions in recognition of his contributions to the city. Due to the nature of his illness, his funeral was conducted with limited attendance. He was buried at Fulton Street Cemetery.
Cole was described by contemporaries as a dedicated lawyer and public servant.
Links and Resources
- History of the City of Grand Rapids by Albert Baxter, 1891
