Governor Chase S. Osborn

Michigan’s Maverick Governor and Upper Peninsula Pioneer

A Legacy of Reform and Resilience

Chase Salmon Osborn (1860–1949) stands as one of Michigan’s most intriguing historical figures. The only governor from Michigan’s Upper Peninsula (1911–1913), Osborn’s life was marked by his adventurous spirit, deep commitment to reform, and unconventional approach to politics. From prospecting for iron ore to shaping Michigan’s future, Osborn embodied resilience and innovation.

From Indiana to Iron Hunting

Born in a log house in Indiana, Osborn’s name paid homage to Salmon P. Chase, an abolitionist and Lincoln’s Treasury Secretary. He studied at Purdue University and began his career in journalism, working for newspapers in Chicago and Milwaukee. Eventually, he moved north to Florence, Wisconsin, near the Michigan border, where he combined his love of journalism with prospecting for iron ore.

His move to Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, in 1889 marked the start of his political journey. He became postmaster, served as the state Fish and Game Warden, and later worked as Michigan’s Commissioner of Railroads. By 1910, Osborn’s dedication to reform propelled him to the governorship.

The Governor Who Shunned Reelection

Osborn’s single term as governor (1911–1913) was defined by a bold refusal to seek reelection. Believing that the desire for political longevity could compromise decision-making, he focused on critical reforms. Under his leadership:

Michigan’s state deficit was eliminated.
A workmen’s compensation law was introduced.
The state enacted its first presidential primary law.

Although he supported Theodore Roosevelt’s Progressive Party in 1912, Osborn maintained a principled distance from political factions in Michigan.

Adventurer and Author

After leaving office, Osborn explored the world and chronicled his adventures in books like *The Iron Hunter* (1919). This autobiography reflected his love for the outdoors and his work in iron ore prospecting across Wisconsin and Michigan. He also co-authored works with his adopted daughter, Stellanova Osborn, whose relationship with him became a topic of curiosity after their late-life marriage.

A Lasting Legacy

Chase S. Osborn’s contributions to Michigan extend far beyond politics. He advocated for the construction of the Mackinac Bridge and left an indelible mark on institutions like the University of Michigan and Lake Superior State University. His likeness is immortalized in paintings, statues, and the riverfront walk in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan.

Osborn passed away in 1949 at his Georgia retreat, Possum Poke, but his adventurous spirit and reform-minded legacy continue to inspire. From the rugged Upper Peninsula to the halls of Lansing, Chase S. Osborn remains a symbol of integrity, vision, and dedication.

Marisa Fancy along with her husband and four children dreamt of moving “Up North”. They had vacationed for years in northern Michigan and in 1995 they finally made the move.

The family was always out exploring, but with 4 kids there was some limitations on what they could do. Marisa discovered the amazing network of trails in Northern Michigan after Steve died and she would walk for miles. The trails provided her with peace, comfort and solitude at a difficult time in her life. Later, after meeting Guy who would become her second husband, she learned to golf and found another passion she could enjoy in beautiful Northern Michigan.

Marisa has been the family historian, writer, and poet for as long as she can remember. She has always loved to write and has now found a creative outlet for it other than family. You can read her articles in Adventures in Northern Michigan, Northern Michigan History and Golf Up North.