Charles A. Winslow was born July 13, 1871 in Utica, one of nine children of Charles and Jane Leahy Winslow. He spent his boyhood in Utica, where he was educated at Assumption Academy. He learned the plumber's trade and followed that for two years, after which he went to New York City and studied voice under internationally-known musician Paola Giorza for four years.
Careers included Utica Brewing Company, Hardiman Hotel night clerk, N.Y. Central Railroad, coal dealer under Horace Tyler, Trucking Storage business later called Winslow Trucking, and the Watertown Milk Company.
He was elected Mayor of the City of Watertown in November of 1939 and served two terms. At the expiration of his term December 31, 1947, Mr. Winslow retired from politics. One of the outstanding municipal achievements of his mayoralty was the development of the Watertown airport and the creation of a municipal airport commission to control airport operations. Other major accomplishments included reducing the City’s debt to the lowest amount in 42 years.
In addition to being Mayor, Mr. Winslow served as the Chairman of the Jefferson County War Council during the World War II years and was responsible for directing the civilian war efforts of the County.
Mr. Winslow served as the dean of the Watertown Male Chorus when that organization was formed in 1929. His distinctive voice delighted music lovers.
He married Anna Fee of Watertown in 1900. They were both prominent musically, singing in church choirs and talent productions.
He died in the City of Watertown on October 12, 1968 at the age of 97. He is buried in Glenwood Cemetery.
