Charles Kleiner, corporation counsel of the city of New Haven, was born June 4. 1854, in this city, a son of Israel and Eva (Meyer) Kleiner, both of whom were natives of Germany. They came to America about 1848 and established their home in New Haven, where their son Charles attended the public schools. He afterward entered Yale for his law course and was graduated in 1883 with the LL. B. degree, but in the meantime other interests had claimed his attention, he having devoted ten years to the printing business. Following his graduation from Yale he was admitted to the bar and at once entered upon active practice, since which time he has given his attention to professional interests and has won recognition as a prominent and able lawyer of New Haven. He was called to the office of corporation counsel in 1910 and by reelection continues in the position, his present term extending to 1918
     On the 27th of January, 1886, in New Haven, Mr. Kleiner was united in marriage to Miss Clara Laudenbach, a daughter of David and Babette (Zunder) Laudenbach. Mr. and Mrs. Kleiner have become the parents of four children, Israel, Leah R., Estelle and Manfred.
     The parents are members of Congregation Mishkan Israel, of which Mr. Kleinor was president from 1899 until 1908. Fraternally he is a Mason and he also has membership with the Ancient Order of Foresters and the Free Sons of Israel. His political allegiance is given to the republican party and aside from the office of corporation counsel he has served in other official positions. For three years, from 1885 until 1887 inclusive, he was a member of the city council of New Haven and was president of the board of councilmen in 1886 and 1887. In 1888 he was elected to the office of alderman and served for two years. He was also a member of the first board of directors of the free public library of the city of New Haven, acting in that capacity from 1887 until 1890. He has been closely associated with public affairs in his native city and has done much to direct public thought and opinion leading to the substantial progress, growth and upbuilding of New Haven.