Ellen Jewett Watts 1843-1908

JEWETT, WATTS

Posted By: Volunteer - Rich Lowe
Date: 7/24/2002 at 10:03:47

Ellen Jewett Watts

Ellen Jewett, daughter of Rev. Daniel and Priscilla K. Jewett, was born in Van Buren county, May 20, 1843, departing this life January 4, 1908, aged 64 years, 7 months, and 14 days.

Her parents were among the pioneer settlers of this state, having come to Iowa in its infancy. When quite young the deceased with her parents located on a farm some two miles from Farmington, remaining there a number of years. In early life she obeyed the injunction of Solomon to “Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth” and united with the Baptist church at Farmington.

In 1855 she with her parents moved to Bonaparte, remaining several years. Not having the advantages in school education in school education desired she went to Pella attending the Iowa Central University in 1858 and 59. She became a teacher for several years during the war, the last school being taught in Bentonsport.

Feb. 23, 1864, the deceased was united in marriage to Robert R. Watts who was her faithful companion up to the time of his death August 5, 1903.

In 1866 they located on a farm near Bonaparte where their two oldest sons, Frank J. and Robert F. came to bless their home. In 1868 they moved to Pella, Iowa, uniting with the Baptist church in that place. It was while living at Pella the two younger sons Alfred and Carlton C. were added to the family circle.

In 1879 the deceased suffered from malaria and nervous prostration when the best home physicians failed to help, and being advised by them to make a change she with her companion and family came to Bonaparte, but with little benefit.

Being a great sufferer these many years her husband too her to Bloomfield where she received successful treatment. In the meantime they bought a farm and with their two sons located some two miles southeast of Hillsboro. But in order to better enjoy church privileges she with her husband and youngest son made their home in the little town of Hillsboro.

During their stay there the deceased with her companion identified themselves with the Christian church not being able to attend at Harrisburg where they had placed their membership. Here she was also a member many years of the W.R.C., Epworth League, and the local board of the Children’s Home at Des Moines.

Funeral services were held at the Christian church in Hillsboro Monday afternoon, Rev. Stearns officiating, with interment in the Hillsboro cemetery.

The four sons, Frank J. of Bonaparte; Robert E. and Carlton C. of Hillsboro; and Alfred of Rock Island are all living and were present at her death and funeral. There are also four grandchildren.

---

Source: Entler Scrapbook, vol. 5, Iowa Historical Library, Iowa City, IA