Charles F. Mayer (railroad president)

Mayer became president of the Consolidation Coal Company of Maryland in 1877.^[2][3] In 1887, he became a member of the board of directors of B&O, and in 1889, succeeded Samuel Spencer as its president.^[3] Mayer served as president for seven years,^[2] playing a key role in the construction of the Baltimore Belt Line.^[3][5] He recruited young engineer Samuel Rea to design the line,^[3] and personally chose the Saxony royal blue color that became the signature of the line's premier Royal Blue rail service.^[6][7] Mayer also succeeded in separating the railroad from partial political control by the City of Baltimore and the State of Maryland, convincing them to sell their stock in the company in 1890.^[3] However, the railroad suffered from financial issues during his tenure, and Mayer resigned in 1896. He was replaced by the company's general counsel, John K. Cohen.

A flattering biographical sketch of Mayer in an 1898 Baltimore publication described him thus:^[4]

The private life of Mr. Mayer exemplifies the man of faithful and unwavering friendship, who has helped many one to a higher destiny. His benevolence is proverbial, and many are the benefits he quietly and unostentatiously confers.

A member of Baltimore society, Mayer served on many charitable and educational boards and trusts, including those of Johns Hopkins University, the Western National Bank, and the Baltimore Steam Packet Company.^[2] A brother of the Masonic Order, Mayer also was a member of a number of clubs in Baltimore, such as the Merchants' Club, the Maryland Club, and the University Club.^[4]

Mayer died on February 24, 1904, at his home on West Monument Street in Baltimore. He was buried in Green Mount Cemetery.^[8][9]