Charles Powell Clinch

Charles Powell Clinch (October 20, 1797 – December 16, 1880) was an American playwright and public official. A longtime appointed official at the U.S. Custom House in New York City, he was most notable for his service as acting Collector of the Port of New York from 1865 to 1866.

Early life Charles Powell Clinch was born in New York City on October 20, 1797, a son of prominent ship chandler James Clinch and his first wife Susannah (Banker) Clinch. Among Clinch's siblings was Cornelia, the wife of Alexander Turney Stewart. In his early life, Clinch was left independently wealthy by the death of his father.

Family Clinch was married to Abigail (Abby) Mary Allen (1782-1770). She was the mother of a daughter, Annie (d. 1890), whom Clinch adopted. His sister was Cornelia Mitchell Clinch, who married Alexander Turney Stewart.

Death and burial Clinch died in New York City on December 16, 1880. He was buried at Moravian Cemetery on Staten Island.