Charles Kelsey (August 24, 1821 – April 15, 1866) was an American politician from New York.
Kelsey was born on August 24, 1821, in Poughkeepsie, New York, the son of mechanic James Kelsey[1] and Rachel Ellen DuBois.[2]
Kelsey learned carpentry from his father. When he was 16 he moved to Brooklyn, where he lived for the rest of his life save for a brief period in Charleston, South Carolina. In Brooklyn, he worked as a master-builder for six years, and then began working in the coal business. He served as Collector of Assessment in the city for two years, Canal-boat Inspector for two years, and Harbor-master for two years. He was also a member of the Brooklyn Board of Education and was a trustee of the Brooklyn Benevolent Association.
Kelsey was a Whig until the dissolution of the party, at which point he briefly became a Republican before joining the Democratic Party. In 1859, Kelsey was elected to the New York State Assembly as a Democrat, representing the Kings County 2nd District. He served in the Assembly in 1860.
Kelsey was a member of the Baptist Church. In 1846, he married Elvira Preston. Their children were Jane Amelia and Frances. He was a member of the Odd Fellows.[3]
Kelsey died in Brooklyn on April 15, 1866.[4] He was buried in Green-Wood Cemetery.