1872 Massachusetts gubernatorial election

The 1872 Massachusetts gubernatorial election was held on November 5, 1872. Republican governor William B. Washburn was re-elected to a second term in office over businessman Francis W. Bird, a Liberal Republican nominated with support of the Democratic Party.

Candidates

 * Benjamin Butler, U.S. Representative from Lowell and candidate for governor in 1871
 * William B. Washburn, incumbent governor

Convention
With an incumbent seeking re-election, the Republican convention was far less contentious than the open race of 1871. Nevertheless, supporters of Benjamin F. Butler placed his name in opposition to Washburn and a vote was taken.

Washburn's renomination was then made unanimous. A subsequent inquiry found that Butler's totals were inflated by "ballot-stuffing and other improper devices." In the only other contested race, Thomas Talbot defeated Elijah B. Stoddard by 643 to 395 for lieutenant governor.