Educated at West Nottingham Academy, he spent several years in the work force, first as a store clerk, then as a public school teacher.

Crothers continued to act as party leader in Cecil County, but still failed another re-election attempt in 1905.

He supported pure food laws, better care for the mentally ill, and increased taxes for collateral inheritance and automobile licenses.

Crothers removed the three supposedly corrupt members and tried to fill their posts with chosen replacements while the originals awaited trial.

[2] Crothers also supported the 1910 Digges Amendment to the Maryland Constitution, which would have used property qualifications to disenfranchise African Americans.

[2] Crothers's actions led to some problems with Maryland's other politicians, including members of his own party, near the end of his time as governor.