Charlie Robertson (mayor) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Charlie Robertson
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|---|---|
| 22nd Mayor of York, Pennsylvania | |
| In office 1994 – January 7, 2002 |
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| Preceded by | William Althaus |
| Succeeded by | John S. Brenner |
| Personal details | |
| Born |
Charles H. Robertson
April 12, 1934 York, Pennsylvania, U.S. |
| Died | August 24, 2017 (aged 83) York, Pennsylvania, U.S. |
| Cause of death | Cancer |
| Political party | Democratic |
| Children | 1 son, adopted |
| Education | William Penn Senior High School |
| Known for | role in the 1969 York Race Riot |
| Military service | |
| Branch/service | United States Army |
| Years of service | two, in the 1950s |
Charles H. Robertson (born April 12, 1934 – died August 24, 2017) was an American politician. He was a member of the Democratic Party. He served as the mayor of York, Pennsylvania. He was mayor from 1994 until January 2002. He was also known for his role as a police officer during a difficult time in York's history in 1969.
About Charlie Robertson
Early Life and Education
Charles H. Robertson was born and grew up in York, Pennsylvania. He was the youngest of six brothers. His father, Milford, worked as a school janitor. Charles graduated from William Penn Senior High School in York in 1952. After high school, he joined the United States Army. He served for two years as a medic.
In 1962, Robertson started working for the York Police Department. He worked there for 29 years. He was known for helping and guiding children. Many parents trusted him. This trust helped him later when he became involved in politics.
Political Career
Robertson began his political career in 1975. He was elected to the school board. This was his first step into public service.
He first ran for mayor of York in 1993. He won that election. He was re-elected for a second term in 1997. In 2001, he ran for a third term as mayor. He won a very close election in the Democratic primary. He won by only 48 votes. His opponent was Ray Crenshaw, a city councilman. Crenshaw was the first African American man to run for mayor of York.
Tom Wolf was Robertson's campaign chairman. Wolf later became the governor of Pennsylvania in 2015. After winning the primary, Robertson decided not to continue in the election. His closest supporters convinced him this was best for York. Another Democrat, John S. Brenner, was then elected as the next mayor.
Later Life and Legacy
Robertson passed away on August 24, 2017. He was 83 years old. He died in York, Pennsylvania. He had been diagnosed with cancer about two years before his death. He is remembered for his long career in public service. This included his time as a police officer and as mayor of York.
