The Governors' Gallery
William Stephens
1917- 1923
Significant Facts
Born: December 26, 1859 in Eaton, Ohio
Died: April 24, 1944 in Los Angeles, California
Married: Flora Rawson on June 17, 1891 in Poway, CA
Political Party: Republican
Biography
William Stephens began his career as a railroad laborer and grocery clerk. He eventually served as U.S. Congressman and Lt. Governor prior to succeeding Hiram Johnson as Governor. It was a time of great upheaval in California—Stephens was supporting prohibition and women were fighting for the right to vote (which passed in California in 1911). Additionally, World War I began.
Stephens' administration suffered threats and bombings. The Governor's Mansion was bombed in 1917 by labor radicals. In an unrelated incident, $50,000 was demanded or both the capitol and the mansion would be blown up. Perhaps as a way to build morale, Stephens frequently backed special days such as "Ripe Olive Day," "Gauze Mask Day" and "Go to Sunday School Sunday." The ever bow-tied Stephens was admitted to the bar while Governor, and entered the practice of law after leaving office.
Family
Father: Martin Stephens
Mother:Alvina Leibee
Wife: Flora Rawson
Children: Barbara
Did You Know?
Stephens was named the director of the Los Angeles Chamber of Commerce in 1902 and served in that capacity until 1911.
In a brief address in 1919, Stephens observed that it was the first time in California that women sat in the legislature.
Bibliography
Books and Articles
Biographical Directory of the U.S. Congress, 1774 – 2005
Melendy and Gilbert. The Governors of California: From Peter H. Burnett to Edmund G. Brown, Talisman Press, 1965.
Schaechtele. The Governors of California and their Portraits, California State Capitol Museum Volunteer Association, 1995.
Websites
- Inaugural Address delivered on March 15, 1917
- Inaugural Address delivered on January 7, 1919