Robbins was born in Burrillville, Rhode Island, to a family of farmers.

"[1] Upon finishing his studies, he joined brother-in-law Serril Mowry's ready-made clothing business.

[1] As president of the Board of Aldermen, Robbins became acting mayor of Providence upon the death of Thomas A.

During his tenure, he oversaw construction of a cable car tramway on Providence's East Side and electrification of city streets.

[2] He died on September 27, 1889, of heart failure and is buried at Swan Point Cemetery.