William Charles Rogers

Who was William Charles Rogers?

William Charles Rogers was born near Claremore, Oklahoma, USA, on 13 December 1847. A successful farmer, he entered local politics in 1881.

A member of the Downing Party, he was elected Principal Chief in 1903, defeating E. L. Cookson of the National Party. He served during the final days of the takeover of the Cherokee government by the United States of America and the establishment of the state of Oklahoma.

After his four-year term of office was complete, he retained the status of chief, for purposes of dealing with matters of the handover of power to the United States. He died on November 8, 1917 in Skiatook, Oklahoma.

Rogers was a Freemason and was buried near Skiatook, Oklahoma, a town which he had established.