Charles Henderson (April 26, 1860 – January 7, 1937) was an American businessman serving as the 35th governor of Alabama from 1915 to 1919 and a member of the Democratic Party. Before serving as governor, Henderson was mayor of Troy, Alabama from 1886 to 1906 and played a role in Troy's business and civic development. After his term as governor, Henderson remained active in the community. In 1937, after a bout with influenza, Henderson suffered a stroke and died at age 76. The public high school and middle school in Troy bear his name.
Early life
Charles Henderson was born on April 26, 1860, in Henderson, Alabama. Charles was the third son of Jeremiah Augustus "Gus" Henderson and Mildred Hill Henderson. Charles Henderson's keen business sense developed in childhood while helping out with his father's successful mercantile business in Troy. At age 15, Henderson enrolled in Howard College in Marion, Alabama. Two years later, his father died unexpectedly, and Henderson left school to help run the family business in Troy.
Business and political leadership
After his return to Troy, Henderson quickly gained a reputation as a businessman and a community leader. In addition to helping with the family business, Henderson founded Troy's first wholesale grocery company, helped form the Alabama Midland Railroad Company, and owned a cotton-buying firm.
In 1886, Henderson made his first successful run for mayor at age 26, defeating James Folmar. During his terms as mayor, Henderson continued his involvement in Troy's business and community development: During his term, the state legislature passed a tax revision law, a primary election law, and a prohibition law. Henderson opposed prohibition and vetoed a law against alcohol advertising. Legislature ignored his veto and passed the law anyway; in 1915, the legislature went further and banned the sale of whiskey in Alabama. Henderson again vetoed this law and was overruled. Despite his disagreement with them, Henderson upheld and enforced both laws.
Henderson was instrumental in establishing a state child welfare department, a workmen's compensation program, and new health laws to control the spread of preventable diseases. He additionally helped improve the state prison system and adopted several educational reforms. Henderson's strong business sense influenced his years as governor, earning him the nickname "The Business Governor."
- Master Mason of Troy Lodge No. 56 of Free and Accepted Masons