Douglas County History: The Story Behind Charles Starkweather

Former Superior Mayor Impeached Just to Become Mayor Again

SUPERIOR, Wis. – A one-time mayor of Superior, Wisconsin had an unlikely path to the mayor’s office and an uncommon exit as well.

Charles Starkweather, originally from Vermont, moved to Superior in 1889.

He was elected to the common council in 1893 and became the city’s mayor two years later.

Starkweather was impeached because he allowed salloons to have unlicensed gambling take place and also because he allowed liquor sales on Sundays.

Unhappy with this decision, Starkweather put a padlock on the door to the mayor’s office.

Martin Pattison became the new mayor, but two years later Starkweather ran for mayor again and got the job.

Starkweather passed away in 1918.

The Douglas County Historical Society has much more information on this story and many others.

The society is located at 1101 John Ave., Superior, WI 54880.

They can be reached at (715) 392-8449 or online.