George F. Wattson

WATTSON

Posted By: Karon Velau (email)
Date: 11/8/2022 at 22:06:29

George F. Wattson

Capt. G. F. Wattson, postmaster at Northwood, came to Worth Co., Iowa, in 1865. He was born in Adrian, Mich, Aug. 19, 1843. His parents were Charles R. and Jane M. (Mathews) Wattson. His father was a native of Philadelphia, where he was married by Rev. Dr. Tyng, in 1837. Soon after marriage he moved to Adrian, Mich., where he remained until 1852, when he went to Winneshiek Co., Iowa, and engaged in farming. Capt. G. F. grew to manhood in Iowa. In 1861 he enlisted in company K, 5th Iowa Infantry. He took part in the following engagements: New Madrid, Corinth, Iuka, second battle of Corinth, Champion Hills, siege and capture of Vicksburg. In July, he re-enlisted in the 5th Iowa Cavalry, and was in the Dutch River campaign against General Hood, also under Wilson through the Carolinas. He served until the close of the war. He arrived at Northwood, Worth Co., Iowa, in 1865, and in 1868 opened the first drug store in Northwood. In 1873 he was elected sheriff of the county, holding the office for six years. In 1881 he was appointed postmaster, which office he still retains. In 1866 Mr. Wattson was married to Felixine Wardall, a daughter of Charles Wardall. Mr. and Mrs. Wattson are the parents of three living children-G. H.,Carrie and Charles. Mr. Wattson is a member of the Masonic Blue Lodge and Chapter, also a member of the G. A. R. Oct. 9, 1883, he was elected to the General Assembly from the eighty-sixth district. Source: History of Mitchell and Worth Counties, Iowa, 1884, p.845