George Washington Clark facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
George Washington Clark
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| 41st Mayor of Charleston | |
| In office 1868–1869 |
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| Preceded by | Milton Cogswell |
| Succeeded by | Gilbert Pillsbury |
| Personal details | |
| Born | December 26, 1834 Indiana |
| Died | May 22, 1898 (aged 63) Washington, D.C. |
| Spouse | Sara Robinson Clark (1855–95) |
| Children | Eleanor G.A. Clark Speer (___–1918); Edith K.O. Clark (1881–1936); Clifford Robinson Clark (1882–1918) |
| Alma mater | Wabash College |
George Washington Clark was an important figure in American history. He served as the forty-first mayor of Charleston, South Carolina. He was mayor from 1868 to 1869.
He was born in Indiana on December 26, 1834. He passed away in Washington, D.C., on May 22, 1898. He is buried at Arlington National Cemetery. He was married to Sara Robinson Clark.
George Washington Clark's Military Service
George Washington Clark was a brave soldier. He served during the American Civil War. He was made a colonel. He led the 34th Iowa Infantry Regiment.
Clark's regiment fought in several important battles. These included the Vicksburg Campaign and the Battle of Brownsville. They also fought in the Battle of Fort Blakely. He commanded a group of soldiers during the siege of Fort Morgan. This was part of the larger Battle of Mobile Bay.
Becoming Mayor of Charleston
After the Civil War, Clark became involved in politics. He was appointed mayor of Charleston. This happened on July 6, 1868. General E.R.S. Canby made this appointment. General Canby was in charge of the military district at that time.
Later that year, an election was held. George Washington Clark ran against Gilbert Pillsbury. Clark lost this election. However, he did not want to leave his office.
The Election Dispute
In March 1869, Gilbert Pillsbury went to City Hall. He asked Clark to leave the mayor's office. Clark believed that the state government could not make laws about local elections. So, he refused to step down.
The situation went to court. The South Carolina Supreme Court looked at the election results. In May 1869, the court decided against Clark. They confirmed that Gilbert Pillsbury had won the election. After this ruling, Clark was replaced by Pillsbury as mayor.
