Watson - James H. - Montgomery InGenWeb Project

WATSON, James H., carriagemaker, Crawfordsville, is one of the enterprising firm of Watson, Coutant & Co., This firm manufactures all kinds of carriages and buggies, employing 12 workmen. Their establishment is on Green St. opposite the city buildings. Mr. Watson is a native of Crawfordsville and was b. Nov 9, 1836. His father, William P. Watson, a tanner by trade, was a native of Oh, and his mother, Eiza A. WESTLAKE, was born in NY. In 1836 he came to Crawfordsville and engaged in the dry goods business. In 1842 he was appointed postmaster, which office he held for 10 or 12 years. Leaving the post office he opened a tannery which he continued for 10 years, then engaged in the saddlery and harness trade. He died in Nov 1875. He was a democrat all his life and served two terms as co. commissioner. James H spent 15 years with his uncle, James Watson, of Crawfordsville, in the pork packing business. in 1861 he enlisted in Co. G, 10th Ind, under Capt. MANSON. Mr. W. entered the service as 1st Lt, but Capt. Manson being promoted to the position of col. the first lt. was promoted to the captaincy. He enlisted for 3 months, but was not discharged for four months, or after the battle of Rich Mtn. Leaving the army, Mr. W. worked one year in a tobacco house in Louisville, returned to his home, and soon after was engaged as clerk for ROBINS & REYNOLDS in the hotel at Terre Haute. He then became deputy in the auditor's office and in Nov. 1871, was elected co. auditor, which office he held till 1879 with honor and credit. After 3 weeks' vacation he associated himself with his present partners in the carriage business. He has been a lifelong democrat. Mr. W. was married Jan 15, 1867 to Elizabeth REYNOLDS of Fountain County. He is now an officer in the Montgomery Co. Agricultural Society and an influential citizen. – transcribed by kbz