Background
Stearns was born in Billerica, Massachusetts on August 30, 1810.
Stearns was born in Billerica, Massachusetts on August 30, 1810.
He attended the local schools of his hometown, and moved to Boston, where he clerked in several stores in preparation for a business career.
After moving to Concord, Stearns established himself in business. In 1857 Stearns received the honorary degree of Master of Arts from Dartmouth College. Stearns became active in politics as a Republican, serving in the New Hampshire State Senate from 1862 to 1864.
He served as the Senate"s President pro tempore in 1863, and was a Delegate to the 1864 Republican National Convention.
Stearns ran successfully for Governor in 1869 and was reelected in 1870. During his time in office the state created a board of agriculture, taxes and deficits necessitated by New Hampshire"s participation in the American Civil War were lowered, and the state government continued to promote the development of railroads and manufacturing business.
After leaving office Stearns retired from politics and resumed his business interests. He died in Concord, New Hampshire on December 29, 1878, and was buried in the Blossom Hill Cemetery in Concord.
Stearns" daughter Mary was the wife of General John R. Brooke.
New Hampshire Republican State Committee, Republican Party.