Thomas J. Otterson, formerly a well-known business man of Allenstown, was born in Hookset, N.H., February 8, 1818, son of William and Betsey (Cofran) Otterson. On the paternal side he descended from William Otterson, a native of Ireland, who was drowned in Lake Champlain during the French and Indian War. William’s son, James Otterson, grandfather of Thomas J., was born in Londonderry, N.H., August 19, 1757. He was the father of twelve children, of whom William (second), father of Thomas J., was the third child. The father, who was born in Hookset, October 30, 1789, reared a family of five children, of whom Thomas J. was the eldest.
Reared and educated in Hookset, Thomas James Otterson was engaged in mercantile pursuits in his native town until 1861. Then he moved to Allenstown, and entered the lumber business. He was very successful financially, was prominent in public affairs, and served as Treasurer and Collector in Allenstown for a number of years. Highly respected for his upright character and other estimable January 28, 1893, when he was seventy-five years old, was regretted by all who knew him. He left a good estate.
Mr. Otterson married Phœbe P. S. Bryant, daughter of Nathan and Delight (Nichols) Bryant. Their only child, Helen P., is now Mrs. Henry H. Edwards, of Allenstown. Mrs. Otterson died at the age of sixty-seven years. Both Mr. and Mrs. Otterson attended the Universalist church.