In the 1896 election, two populists were running for mayor which worried mainstream Republicans.[1] With the Freeholders' Charter of 1890, the term of office was changed to two years and incumbents were ineligible to run again until a further two years had passed. Consequently, Byron Phelps was ineligible for re-election.[3]
Republicans nominated Black, owner of Seattle Hardware Co., who reluctantly accepted.[1][3][4] Black won the election with 51% of the vote, while his nearest challenger, J. Eugene Jordan, garnered 35%.[5]
After his election, Black was inundated with political favors, which made him "disgusted" with politics and not excited for his new job as mayor.[1][4] At his swearing-in, Black stated, "I am afraid you will have to be seeking a new mayor before long."[1] As mayor, Black was overwhelmed by people asking for political favors in his office and at his Beacon Hill home.[1][4] In early April, Black would say he was ill and unable to continue as mayor and submitted his resignation to the city council on April 6, 1894.[1][3] W.D. Wood was then appointed mayor but resigned a year later to take part in the Klondike Gold Rush.[3]
Black is the shortest-serving elected mayor in Seattle's history and had the shortest tenure for a Seattle mayor until Bruce Harrell served for five days after being appointed mayor.[6]
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