Charles Joseph Baker (May 28, 1821 – September 23, 1894) was an American politician, businessman and banker.

He was Mayor of Baltimore temporarily during the American Civil War for 88 days, from October 1861 to January 1862.

He was also known for running his family's glass, paints and oils business, Baker Bros. & Co. and serving as the president of Franklin Bank.

Charles Joseph Baker[1] was born on May 28, 1821, at his father's estate "Friendsbury" in Baltimore.

[1] Baker worked with his father in the manufacturing of window glass, paints and oils on South Charles Street in Baltimore.

[1] Baker was elected to the second branch of the Baltimore City Council from the thirtieth ward on October 10, 1860.

[1] Baker also worked as director of the Canton Company in 1870, which developed much of the port of East Baltimore.

[1][5] They had seven children, including Bernard N. Baker, who became president of the Baltimore Storage and Lighterage Company.