|
William C. Rogers
|
William C. Rogers
1903 – 1907
Known as “The Merchant Prince of the Cherokee,” he won his election by only five votes. Rogers actually worked with the U.S. government representing the Cherokees until 1917 signing documents. In 1905, he refused to call an election for members of the National Council; he saw it useless and expensive due to the approaching Statehood. An election was nevertheless held, and members of the National Council opposed to him were elected. In November, the newly elected council members met and proceeded to impeach him; they chose Frank J. Boudinot as Chief. In the dispute, he was given official recognition by Sec. E.A. Hitchcock, U.S. Department of the Interior.
For many years, he owned a store at Skiatook, where he is buried in Hillside Cemetery.
|