William Donald Schaefer, a prominent American politician, left an indelible mark on the state of Maryland through his five decades of dedicated public service at both the state and local levels. A Democrat by affiliation, Schaefer served as the 45th mayor of Baltimore from December 1971 to January 1987, the 58th Governor of Maryland from January 21, 1987, to January 18, 1995, and the 32nd Comptroller of Maryland from January 20, 1999, to January 17, 2007. In this essay, we will explore the life and career of William Schaefer, focusing on his early life, his involvement with organizations like DeMolay and the Freemasons, his military service, and his journey through the world of politics.
Early Life and Education
Born on November 2, 1921, in Baltimore, Maryland, William Schaefer was the only child of Tululu Irene and William Henry Schaefer. Raised in the old West Baltimore community off Edmondson Avenue, he spent his formative years at 620 Edgewood Street, near Hilton Street and Parkway by Gwynns Falls-Leakin Park. Schaefer's educational journey began in Baltimore's city public schools, culminating in his graduation from The Baltimore City College, a public high school, in 1939. He furthered his education by earning an LL.B. from the University of Baltimore School of Law in 1942 and later pursued an LL.M. in 1954.
Involvement with DeMolay and Freemasonry
During his youth, William Schaefer was a member of the Order of DeMolay in Baltimore, an experience that would later lead to his induction into the DeMolay International Hall of Fame. Additionally, he became a Freemason and a member of the "Grand Lodge of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons of the State of Maryland." Schaefer's involvement with these organizations reflects his commitment to principles of leadership, community service, and personal development.
Military Service
When the United States entered World War II on December 8, 1941, William Schaefer answered the call of duty by joining the United States Army. He would go on to achieve the rank of officer and assumed responsibility for administering hospitals in England and other parts of western Europe. Remarkably, Schaefer continued to serve in the U.S. Army Reserves throughout his academic, legal, and political careers until 1979 when he retired as a colonel. His military service exemplified his dedication to his country and reinforced the values of discipline and leadership that would guide his future endeavors.
Legal Career and Civic Engagement
Following his military service, William Schaefer resumed his legal career, specializing in real estate law. With a Master of Law degree obtained in 1954 from the University of Baltimore School of Law, he co-founded a general practice law firm with two colleagues. Schaefer remained unmarried and resided with his mother in unassuming rowhouses on Edgewood Street in West Baltimore, except for his later years when he moved to the Government House, the Maryland Governor's Mansion.
Schaefer's entry into public life was inspired by his desire to address issues of corruption and fairness. He decided to run for a seat in the Maryland House of Delegates in 1950 and 1954, although he was unsuccessful in both attempts. His determination paid off in 1955 when he secured a seat on the Baltimore City Council, representing the 5th Councilmanic District. In 1967, he successfully ran for the position of Baltimore City Council president, and four years later, in 1971, he emerged victorious in the mayoral race.
Conclusion
William Schaefer's life journey from his early involvement with DeMolay and Freemasonry, his distinguished military service, to his impactful political career serves as an inspirational tale of dedication, perseverance, and service to his community and country. His legacy as a Senior DeMolay, Freemason, Army Colonel, and Governor of Maryland continues to inspire future generations to pursue leadership, integrity, and public service. William Schaefer's name remains synonymous with unwavering commitment to the betterment of society.
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