Last Updated on October 16, 2011 by
H. C. Watson, time-keeper and clerk M. M. L & St. L. shops, Mattoon; was born in New Madrid, New Madrid Co., Mo., July 27, 1827; his father was a Scotchman and was one of the early Western pioneers, having come West as early as 1805. Having obtained a good common school education, in 1844, he became a student in Prof. J. B. Anderson’s high school, in New Albany, Ind.; this he attended one year; in 1845, he attended St. Vincent’s College at Cape Girardeau; in 1848, he matriculated in Bethany College, Va., and remained one year; on his return home, he engaged in merchandising, and followed the business till 1863; by reason of the war, he lost most of his stock and trade; he moved with his family to Litchfield, Ill., and, in 1865, entered the office of the Master Mechanic of the St. L., A. & T. H. R. R., as clerk and timekeeper; in 1867, the I. & St. L. leased the road, and, in 1870, when the shops were removed from Litchfield to Mattoon, he came with them. He was married in November, 1852, to Sarah C. Post, a native of Alton, Ill.; has five children – William G., Harry W., Frank E., Jennie, Gertie. Has held the office of School Director, East Side.