David I. Robinson facts for kids

Quick facts for kids David I. Robinson
Treasurer of Essex County, Massachusetts
In office 1904–1921
Preceded by	E. Kendall Jenkins
Succeeded by	Phoebe M. Curtis
Member of the Massachusetts Governor's Council from the 5th District
In office 1902–1904
Preceded by	George F. Harwood
Succeeded by	George R. Jewett
Mayor of Gloucester, Massachusetts
In office 1896–1897
Preceded by	Benjamin F. Cook
Succeeded by	Benjamin F. Cook
In office 1887–1888
Preceded by	John S. Parsons
Succeeded by	William Wesley French
Personal details
Born	David Ingersoll Robinson (1844-10-06)October 6, 1844 Manchester-by-the-Sea, Massachusetts
Died	November 13, 1921(1921-11-13) (aged 77) Gloucester, Massachusetts
Political party	Republican

David Ingersoll Robinson (born October 6, 1844 – died November 13, 1921) was an important American politician. He served as the Mayor of Gloucester, Massachusetts and also as the Treasurer for Essex County, Massachusetts. He was also part of the Gloucester Common Council and the Massachusetts Governor's Council.

Early Life and Education

David Robinson was born on October 6, 1844, in Manchester-by-the-Sea, Massachusetts. His father, John Robinson, was a shoemaker and a singing teacher. In 1851, his family moved to Alton, Illinois.

After finishing Alton High School, David became a teacher in the public schools there. During the American Civil War, he joined the Union Army as a private. He later became a clerk in the Provost Marshal's office in Alton. After the war, he worked in different businesses in Alton.

Business Career in Gloucester

In 1868, Robinson moved to Gloucester, Massachusetts. He married Helen Amanda Smith on January 21, 1869. Soon after, he started working as a bookkeeper for a company called Stockbridge & Smith.

He later became a partner, and the business was renamed Stockbridge & Co. In 1876, this company joined with others to form the Atlantic Halibut Company. Robinson became its treasurer and secretary. Later, in 1895, Atlantic Halibut became part of the American Halibut Company, where Robinson continued as treasurer.

Besides his work with the halibut companies, Robinson was also the president of the Gloucester Fisherman's Institute for five years. He was also a director at the City National Bank of Gloucester.

Community Involvement

David Robinson was very active in many community groups. He was chosen twice as the Supreme Templar of the Templars of Honor and Temperance, a group that promoted good values. He was also a Grand Commander of Massachusetts for the Knights of Malta. In 1890, he even represented them in Glasgow.

From 1902 to 1912, Robinson was the president of the Robinson Genealogical Society. He was also a member of the Sons of Temperance, the Grand Army of the Republic (a group for Civil War veterans), and the Freemasons.

Political Journey

Robinson began his political career in 1879 when he was elected to the Gloucester Common Council. In 1881, he became the Council President. He ran for Mayor of Gloucester in 1881 and again in 1883, but he did not win those elections.

Mayor of Gloucester

In 1886, Robinson ran for Mayor a third time and won! He was re-elected in 1887 by a very small margin. There was a recount, and it confirmed he won by just four votes.

During his time as Mayor, Gloucester saw many improvements. New buildings were constructed, including a high school, an armory, a police station, and a courthouse. Many city streets were paved. The city's money situation also got better, as its debt was managed at a lower interest rate.

Robinson served as Mayor again in 1896, after defeating the current Mayor, Benjamin F. Cook. However, Cook then defeated Robinson the following year.

Massachusetts Governor's Council

From 1902 to 1904, Robinson was a member of the Massachusetts Governor's Council. This council helps the Governor make important decisions. He was part of committees that dealt with harbors, public lands, charities, prisons, and military affairs. He also helped organize a special ceremony for the Dorchester Heights Monument.

Essex County Treasurer

In 1903, Robinson was elected Treasurer for Essex County, Massachusetts. He held this important job until he passed away on November 13, 1921.

Images for kids

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  David Ingersoll Robinson (center) with family.