Charles McIlrath

Charles McIlrath was an American politician who served as the second Minnesota State Auditor from 1861 to 1873 as a member of the Republican Party.

Following his tenure as Minnesota State Auditor, McIlrath was indicted on 26 counts of felony and malfeasance in office.

Early life
McIlrath was born in Cuyahoga County, Ohio.

Career
McIlrath served as the second Minnesota State Auditor from 1861 to 1873 as a member of the Republican Party.

McIlrath defeated opponents Herman Trott and J. H. Weiser in the 1861 general election. He received more than 21,000 votes, with fewer than 35,000 votes being cast in the race.

McIlrath won re-election in 1863, defeating Democratic nominee John (J.H.) McKinney, a former receiver at the United States General Land Office in Chatfield and Brownsville, in the general election by more than 7,000 votes, with fewer than 30,000 votes being cast in the race.

McIlrath's time in office began on January 1, 1861, and concluded on January 13, 1873. He was preceded in office by William F. Dunbar and succeeded by Orlan P. Whitcomb.

Legal issues
In October 1874, following his tenure as Minnesota State Auditor, McIlrath was indicted by a grand jury of Ramsey County, Minnesota, on 26 counts of felony and malfeasance in office, two of which charged McIlrath with "felonious entry upon the duties of his office before giving the required bonds and sureties."

Death
McIlrath died in California.