Born in Illinois, Burns worked making window glass, and joined the Knights of Labor.
[1] Late in 1900, he was elected as general master workman, the leader of the Knights of Labor.
[2] However, when re-elected in 1901 Burns objected to the make-up of the executive council, and claimed that he had the right to appoint alternative members.
[3] Burns joined a rival faction of the Knights of Labor, led by John N. Parsons.
[4] Burns was elected as general master workman of the minority faction in 1902, and served until his death in 1910.