M. Swain Clough, a Selectman of Pittsfield and an ex-member of the New Hampshire legislature, was born in this town, April 6, 1849, son of Benjamin A. and Lydia A. (Sinclair) Clough. His grandfather, William Clough, who was born in Barrington, N.H., came to Pittsfield as a pioneer. He cleared and improved a farm, and was a prominent man in his day. In politics he was a Republican. He married Sarah Swain, who was also a native of Barrington; and they were the parents of nine children, none of whom are living. Of these Benjamin A., father of the subject of this sketch, was the youngest son. Mrs. William Clough lived to the advanced age of ninety-six years. She and her husband were members of the Free Will Baptist church.
Benjamin A. Clough, also a native of Pittsfield, was in trade in Barrington in his younger days. Later he settled upon the old homestead, where he tilled the soil successfully until his death, which occurred when he was about fifty-six years old. He was a Republican in politics, and was a member of the Board of Selectmen for some time. In his religious belief he was a Congregationalist. His wife, Lydia, a daughter of Micajah Sinclair, of Stratham, N.H., became the mother of one son, M. Swain, and died at the age of forty-six.
The education of M. Swain, commenced in the common schools, was completed at the Pittsfield Academy. After leaving school he assisted upon the home farm until he was twenty-two years old. He then entered the provision business, in which he continued for 1885 he established himself in the livery business, which he has since followed successfully. He owns some valuable real estate in Pittsfield. In politics he is a Republican, and he is prominent in public affairs. He has served as Town Auditor, has been Deputy Sheriff for the past four years, was Representative to the legislature in 1894 and 1895, and was elected Selectman in 1896.
In June, 1888, Mr. Clough was united in marriage with Jessie Harvey, daughter of Elder Joseph Harvey, of Pittsfield. Mr. and Mrs. Clough have no children. Mr. Clough is a member of the Odd Fellows, the Knights of Pythias, and the Improved Order of Red Men. He is highly esteemed by his fellow-townsmen, both as a citizen and an efficient public official.