John J. Robison facts for kids

John J. Robison (born 1824, died 1897) was an important politician in Michigan during the 1800s. He was the mayor of Ann Arbor from 1886 to 1887. He also worked as a state senator and a county clerk.

The Life of John J. Robison

Early Years and Family Life

John J. Robison was born on August 13, 1824. His birthplace was Phelps, New York. His parents were Gertrude Hoag and Andrew Robison. They were both Presbyterians. His father, Andrew, first worked with leather. He was a currier and a tanner. Later, Andrew became a farmer.

In 1843, John and his family moved. They settled in Sharon, Michigan. John worked as a schoolteacher there. He also taught in Manchester for 18 terms. After teaching, he spent more time farming. On May 2, 1847, John married Altha E. Gillett. They had five children together.

John Robison's Start in Politics

John Robison began his political journey in 1862. He was first elected to the Michigan Senate. This is a group of lawmakers for the state. He was elected again in 1864. In 1866, he was asked to run again. But he decided not to.

In 1868, Robison was elected County Clerk. This job was for Washtenaw County. He was elected to this role again in 1870. He was also chosen as a delegate in 1872. This was for the 1872 Democratic National Convention in Baltimore. He was nominated for a seat in the U.S. Congress in 1874 and 1876. However, he did not win either time. In 1878, Robison was elected to the Michigan House of Representatives.

Becoming Mayor of Ann Arbor

Robison moved to Ann Arbor in 1882. This was after he was elected County Clerk. His term began on January 1, 1883. He was elected to this post again in 1884. In 1886, he was elected mayor of Ann Arbor. He served for one term as mayor.

Later Life and Legacy

In 1887, Robison bought the Main Street Jail in Ann Arbor. He changed it into his family home. John J. Robison passed away on Tuesday, October 26, 1897. He was 73 years old.