Waterloo Region Generations
A record of the people of Waterloo Region, Ontario.

Mary Eunice "Eunice" Watson

Female 1895 - 1960  (65 years)


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Generation: 1

  1. 1.  Mary Eunice "Eunice" Watson was born 18 May 1895, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada (daughter of Archibald Gibb "Archie" Watson and Margaret Stevenson); died 25 Oct 1960, Toronto, York Co., Ontario, Canada; was buried 28 Oct 1960, Ayr Cemetery, Ayr, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.

    Other Events:

    • Name: Mary Eunice "Eunice" Houston
    • Eby ID Number: Waterloo-195611
    • Residence: 1911, Ayr, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Presbyterian
    • Residence: 1941, Ayr, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada

    Notes:

    Mrs. James Houston Passes in 66th Year

    The death occurred at Toronto East General Hospital on Tuesday of a former Ayr resident, Mrs. James Houston in her 66th year. The former Mary Eunice Watson, she was born in Winnipeg, the eldest daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Archibald G. Watson and came to Ayr with the family when she was twelve years of age. She received her education at Ayr Public and Continuation Schools and went on to become a school teacher. She married in 1931 to James Houston who passed away a year later. She resided at South Porcupine for some years and later returned to Ayr. In recent years she had lived in Toronto. While in Ayr Mrs. Houston was an active member of Knox United Church. Surviving are two sisters, Mrs. W. A. Cockburn (Emily) of Drumbo and Mrs. A. C. Whitelaw (Margaret) of Dearborn, Mich., and two brothers, David Watson of Kingston and Donald Watson of Paisley. Funeral service will be held at Knox United Church, Ayr, on Friday at 2 p.m., with interment in Ayr Cemetery.

    The Ayr News Oct 27 1960 pg 1

    Mary married James Houston 1931. James was born CALC 4 May 1896, , Ireland; died 2 Jan 1933, South Porcupine, Cochrane District, Ontario; was buried , Ayr Cemetery, Ayr, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada. [Group Sheet]


Generation: 2

  1. 2.  Archibald Gibb "Archie" Watson was born 11 Jun 1868, Ayr, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada (son of James Gibb Watson and Sarah Elizabeth Bishop); died 3 Mar 1941, Galt (Cambridge), Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; was buried 6 Mar 1941, Ayr Cemetery, Ayr, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.

    Other Events:

    • FindAGrave: https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/171361097
    • Name: Archie G. Watson
    • Name: Archie Gibb Watson
    • Occupation: John Watson Company, Ayr, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada
    • Eby ID Number: Waterloo-195609
    • Residence: 1871, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Baptist
    • Residence: 1881, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; C. Presbyterian
    • Occupation: 1911, Ayr, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Bookkeeper - Foundry office
    • Residence: 1911, Ayr, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Presbyterian

    Notes:

    Died In Galt General Hospital, on Monday, March 3, 1941 Archie Gibb Watson In his 73rd year. The Funeral Will take place from his late residence, Bruce Street, Ayr, on Thursday, March 6th, at 2.30 p.m., to the Ayr Cemetery. Friends and acquaintances will please accept this intimation

    Funeral Card

    _______________________

    Archie G. Watson Passes
    - Archie Gibb Watson of Ayr passed away suddenly in Galt Hospital on Monday. Mr. Watson, who was in his 73rd year, was born in Ayr June 11, 1868, a son of James and Sarah Watson. In 1894 he was married to Margaret Stevenson at Winnipeg. He was associated with the John Watson Mfg. Co. during his entire business career. He was manager of the Winnipeg branch from 1898 until 1907, when he came east to act as secretary-treasurer of the company in Ayr. He was a member of Stanley St. Church where he also served as Sunday school superintendent for some time. He later became a member of Knox United Church. He was one of the oldest members of Dolman Lodge, IOOFG, being past grand master. He was also active in the Horticultural Society, Curling Club, Bowling Club and Ayr Library Board. His wife predeceased him about a year and a half ago. He is survived by three daughters, Eunice (Mrs. James Houston), Ayr; Emily (Mrs. Wilfrid Cockburn), Drumbo; Margaret (Mrs. A. C. Whitelaw), Dearborn, Mich.; two sons, David of Mimico and Donald, 12th Field Regiment, RCA. Two sisters also survive: Mrs. E. S. Strachan, Ayr, and Mrs. Robert Harmer, Kitchener. There are five grandchildren. Burial will be made in Ayr Cemetery on Thursday.

    The Ayr News Mar 6 1941

    Archibald married Margaret Stevenson 1894, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. Margaret (daughter of Thomas Stevenson and Mary Ann Teskey) was born 16 Feb 1869, Paris, Brant County, Ontario, Canada; died 20 Oct 1939, Ayr, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; was buried , Ayr Cemetery, Ayr, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada. [Group Sheet]


  2. 3.  Margaret Stevenson was born 16 Feb 1869, Paris, Brant County, Ontario, Canada (daughter of Thomas Stevenson and Mary Ann Teskey); died 20 Oct 1939, Ayr, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; was buried , Ayr Cemetery, Ayr, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.

    Other Events:

    • FindAGrave: https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/171361126
    • Name: Maggie Stevenson
    • Name: Margaret Watson
    • Eby ID Number: Waterloo-195610
    • Residence: 1871, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Presbyterian
    • Residence: 1881, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; C. Presbyterian
    • Residence: 1891, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Presbyterian
    • Residence: 1911, Ayr, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Presbyterian
    • Residence: 1939, Bruce St., Ayr, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada

    Children:
    1. 1. Mary Eunice "Eunice" Watson was born 18 May 1895, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada; died 25 Oct 1960, Toronto, York Co., Ontario, Canada; was buried 28 Oct 1960, Ayr Cemetery, Ayr, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.
    2. Emily Gibb Watson was born 19 May 1896, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada; died Yes, date unknown.
    3. Margaret Elizabeth Watson was born 16 Apr 1899, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada; died Yes, date unknown.
    4. David Murray Watson was born 21 Dec 1900, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada; died 2 Mar 1987, Peterborough, Peterborough, Ontario, Canada; was buried , Ayr Cemetery, Ayr, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.
    5. Donald Stevenson Watson was born 28 Sep 1906, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada; died 29 Jul 1965, Markdale, Artemesia Twp., Grey Co., Ontario; was buried 2 Aug 1965, Ayr Cemetery, Ayr, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.


Generation: 3

  1. 4.  James Gibb Watson was born 15 Nov 1841, Glasgow, , Lanark, Scotland (son of Archibald Watson and Janet Gibb); died 24 Jun 1915, Ayr, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; was buried , Ayr Cemetery, Ayr, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.

    Other Events:

    • FindAGrave: https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/171953172
    • Interesting: military, business, life story
    • Military: American Civil War
    • Military: American Civil War
    • Name: J. G. Watson
    • Occupation: 56 Stanley St., Ayr, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; grocer
    • Eby ID Number: Waterloo-58609P
    • Immigration: 1847, , Ontario, Canada
    • Immigration: 1848, , Ontario, Canada
    • Occupation: 1871, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Moulder
    • Residence: 1871, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Baptist
    • Occupation: 1881, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Clerk
    • Residence: 1881, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; C. Presbyterian
    • Occupation: 1891, Ayr, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Moulder
    • Residence: 1891, Ayr, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Baptist
    • Occupation: 1901, Ayr, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Grocer
    • Occupation: 1911, Ayr, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Retail merchant - Grocery
    • Residence: 1911, Ayr, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Presbyterian

    Notes:

    "Mr. Jas. G. Watson continues very sick."


    Ayr News; Ayr, Ont., Thursday, May 20, 1915

    _____________________


    JAMES G. WATSON ANSWERS LAST CALL

    Old and Respected Resident Passed Away Sunday, After Lingering Illness


    Although not unexpected, the death of James Gibb Watson, which occurred on Sunday about noon time came as a distinct shock to the whole community. Deceased, who was in his 74th year, had been ailing for [near] a year with a disease which gradually sap[p]ed his strength, until death released him.

    His presence will be much missed by a host of friends and acquaintances, who always found in him a good friend, with many sterling qualities and a never-failing cheerfulness of manner, coupled with a ready wit.

    Deceased was born near Glasgow, Scotland, and when 10 years of age came to Canada with his parents, settling in Hamilton. Here he learned the trade of moulding with his father. After living in Hamilton for about 8 years he resided in Galt for a short time and then came on to Ayr. He here went into the late James Somerville's printing office to learn the printing, going from this place to Simcoe and then to Otterville [?], finishing his trade in the office of the late John Sanfield McDonald.

    For quite a number of years he then travelled through the United States working at his trade. when the Civil War broke out he joined the Northern army, becoming a member of the 12th New York Cavalry. During the war he was in many important battles and had the good fortune to come out unscratched, with the exception of 2 sight wounds.

    He arrived back in Ayr shortly before the Fenian Raid took place and during that stirring period joined the local company as Lieutenant. His company received orders to mobilize at New Hamburg which they did, but at the end of two weeks were ordered back to Ayr; the Fenians having been defeated.

    He started the Ayr Herald in 1867, and published a splendid paper for two or three years when he disposed of his plant. From then until when he started a grocery store on Stanley Street, he was connected with the John Watson Mfg. co. for the greater part of his time.

    He was the oldest Oddfellow in this district, having completed nearly 10 years of Oddfellowship, and was the second D.D.G.M. to be elected for this district. In politics he was a Liberal of the old school and in religion a Presbyterian.

    In 1867, he married Sarah Bishop who survives him. He is also survived by three daughters and two sons who are: Mrs. Geo. Hamilton, Toronto: Mrs. R. Harmer, Ayr: Mrs. E.S. Strachan, Winnipeg, and A.G. Watson, Ayr and W.D. Watson, Camrose, Alta. One brother Wm. A. Watson of Moosejaw, and one sister, Mrs. R. Chisholm of Ayr also survive.

    The funeral took place on Tuesday afternoon and was attended by practically everyone in the village and a goodly number from the country. Both the Watson and Hilborn factories closed down for the afternoon, as well as most of the stores during the hours of the funeral. Members of Dolman Lodge, I.O.O.F., to the number of 35 or 40, accompanied by D.D.G.M. Aver of Paris attended the funeral in a body and marched with the cortege to the cemetery. The services were in charge of Rev. J.J. Brown, assisted by Rev. Dr. Thomson and Rev. S. Edwards. The pall bearers were: Messrs John Anderson, W.A. Ramsay, C. McGeorge, C.K. Morton, R. Gemmell and R. Cuthbertson.


    The Ayr News; Ayr, Ont., Thursday, June 24, 1915

    James married Sarah Elizabeth Bishop 7 Aug 1867, Ayr, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada. Sarah (daughter of James Bishop and Mary Haggart) was born 16 Jan 1840, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; died 24 Jun 1923, Ayr, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; was buried 26 Jun 1923, Ayr Cemetery, Ayr, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada. [Group Sheet]


  2. 5.  Sarah Elizabeth Bishop was born 16 Jan 1840, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada (daughter of James Bishop and Mary Haggart); died 24 Jun 1923, Ayr, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; was buried 26 Jun 1923, Ayr Cemetery, Ayr, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.

    Other Events:

    • FindAGrave: https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/171953222
    • Interesting: pioneer, story
    • Name: Sarah Elizabeth Watson
    • Eby ID Number: Waterloo-58618
    • Residence: 1861, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; United Presbyterian
    • Public Service: 1864, Ayr, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; W. L. G. of International Organization of Good Templars
    • Residence: 1871, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Baptist
    • Residence: 1881, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; C. Presbyterian
    • Residence: 1891, Ayr, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Baptist
    • Residence: 1911, Ayr, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Presbyterian

    Notes:

    It is the intention of Mrs. Jas. G. Watson to give up house keeping and she intends disposing of her household effects by auction sale on Saturday, Nov. 6th. Mrs. Watson expects to spend the winter with her daughter, Mrs. Hamilton, Toronto.

    The Ayr News, Ayr, Ont., Thursday, Oct. 28, 1915

    __________________________-

    ANOTHER OLD RESIDENT GONE
    Mrs. James G. Watson Crosses the River of Death


    One by one the old residents of this section are silently passing over the Jordan "to that bourne from whence no traveller e'er returns." This week it is our sorrowful duty to add the name of Mrs. James G. Watson to the list of those who have "gone before", who having passed away peacefully on Sunday evening, June 24, after a short illness, deeply regretted by her family and a wide circle of acquaintances. Mrs. Watson was a pioneer, having been born in the township of North Dumfries in 1840, nearly 84 years ago, when the country was comparatively new and the struggle was not as easy as it is to-day. Her maiden name was Sarah Elizabeth Bishop. In 1867, she was united in marriage with the late James Gibb Watson, just after his return from participating in the American Civil War. All deceased's life was spent in and about Ayr, except for a period of about 12 years in New York State. Since her husband's death a few years ago she spent her time with different members of the family-at the Coast, Manitoba and Ontario. In religion she adhered to the Presbyterian Church. Essentially a home body, she devoted particular attention to her household duties and the interests of her family. The sons and daughters who survive are: Archie G., Ayr: William, Vancouver, B.C.: Mrs. George Hamilton, Toronto: Mrs. R. Harmer, Princeton, and Mrs. E.S. Strachan, Ayr. The funeral took place on Tuesday to the Ayr cemetery; Rev. J.J. Brown officiating, assisted by Rev. Dr. Thomson and Rev. Pallbearers--Walter and John Ferguson, Howard Cant, Jno A. Manson, A.E. and Jno. W. Watson.

    The Ayr News, Ayr, Ont., Thursday June 28, 1923

    ________________________

    Died In Ayr, Ontario, on Sunday, June 24th, 1923, at 5 o'clock p.m. Sarah Elizabeth Bishop Widow of the late James Gibb Watson In her 84th year. The Funeral Will take place from the residence of her son, Archie G. Watson, corner Bruce and Walter Streets, on Tuesday, June 26, at 3 o'clock p.m., to the Ayr Cemetery.

    Funeral Card

    Children:
    1. 2. Archibald Gibb "Archie" Watson was born 11 Jun 1868, Ayr, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; died 3 Mar 1941, Galt (Cambridge), Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; was buried 6 Mar 1941, Ayr Cemetery, Ayr, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.
    2. Mary Etta Watson was born 18 Mar 1871, Ayr, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; died 14 Apr 1928, Toronto, York Co., Ontario, Canada; was buried 17 Apr 1928, Ayr Cemetery, Ayr, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.
    3. Janet Edith Watson was born 9 Nov 1872, Ayr, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; died 1945; was buried , Ayr Cemetery, Ayr, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.
    4. Anna Bella Stock Watson was born 16 Feb 1876, Ayr, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; died 10 Aug 1896; was buried , Ayr Cemetery, Ayr, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.
    5. Jessie Murray Watson was born 10 Jan 1878, Ayr, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; died 21 Oct 1949, Ayr, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; was buried 24 Oct 1949, Ayr Cemetery, Ayr, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.
    6. William Dolman Watson was born 10 Jan 1878, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; died Yes, date unknown.

  3. 6.  Thomas Stevenson was born 5 Nov 1843, Paris, Brant County, Ontario, Canada; died 26 Sep 1941, Ethelton, Saskatchewan; was buried , Fletts Springs Cemetery, Flett Springs, Prince Albert Census Division, Saskatchewan, Canada.

    Other Events:

    • FindAGrave: https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/184282578
    • Eby ID Number: Waterloo-120423
    • Residence: 1864, Paris, Brant County, Ontario, Canada
    • Occupation: 1871, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Teamster
    • Residence: 1871, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Atr
    • Residence: 1871, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Presbyterian
    • Occupation: 1881, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Cooper
    • Residence: 1881, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; C. Presbyterian
    • Occupation: 1891, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Cooper
    • Residence: 1891, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Presbyterian
    • Residence: 1941, Ethelton, Saskatchewan

    Notes:

    Death Of Thomas Stevenson

    Former Resident of This Village Was 97 Years of Age

    Highly Esteemed

    Word has been received here of the death at Ethelton, Sask., on Friday, September 26th, of Thomas Stevenson, a former resident of this village, aged 97 years. Mr. Stevenson was born in Paris, but lived in Ayr for some 30 years. For 20 years, he worked as a cooper for the former Goldie Milling Company at Greenfield. He later spent, two years at Windsor as foreman cooper at the salt works. Mr. Stevenson then decided to go west, where he homesteaded a farm at Loganton, Sask., and subsequently removed to a farm at Clavett, Sask. He had been residing with his son, Arthur, at Ethelton, Sask., for many years, and in 1923 came to Ayr for two years, where he resided at the home of his daughter, the late Mrs. Archie G. Watson. In religion, he was a Presbyterian, being a member of the former Stanley Street Church here. For many years, he was superintendent of the Sunday School and also was an elder of the church. Mr. Stevenson was highly respected by all with whom he came in contact and had many warm friends here. He is survived by the following four sons: Arthur, Ethelton, Sask.; Hedley, Enderby, B.C.; James, Saskatoon, Sask., and William, in the United States. His wife predeceased him many years ago. The late Mrs. Archie G. Watson and the late Mrs. William A. Watson were daughters. The funeral took place on Monday, September 29th, interment being made at Ethelton, Sask.

    The Ayr News Oct 9 1941 pg 10

    Thomas married Mary Ann Teskey 9 Nov 1864, Paris, Brant County, Ontario, Canada. Mary was born 1844, , Ireland; died 9 Feb 1916, London, Middlesex, Ontario, Canada. [Group Sheet]


  4. 7.  Mary Ann Teskey was born 1844, , Ireland; died 9 Feb 1916, London, Middlesex, Ontario, Canada.

    Other Events:

    • Misfortune: London, Middlesex, Ontario, Canada; housed in the Hospital for the insane
    • Name: Mary Ann Stevenson
    • Eby ID Number: Waterloo-120443
    • Residence: 1864, Paris, Brant County, Ontario, Canada
    • Residence: 1871, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Presbyterian
    • Residence: 1881, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; C. Presbyterian
    • Residence: 1891, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Presbyterian

    Children:
    1. William A. Stevenson was born 20 Aug 1864, Paris, Brant County, Ontario, Canada; died 26 Nov 1923, , Ravalli Co., Montana, USA; was buried , Riverview Cemetery, Hamilton, Ravalli, Montana, United States.
    2. Annie Stevenson was born 1866, , Ontario, Canada; died Yes, date unknown.
    3. Minnie Fulton Stevenson was born 24 Feb 1867, Ayr, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; died 5 Jun 1922, Moose Jaw, , Saskatchewan, Canada; was buried 9 Jun 1922, Ayr Cemetery, Ayr, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.
    4. 3. Margaret Stevenson was born 16 Feb 1869, Paris, Brant County, Ontario, Canada; died 20 Oct 1939, Ayr, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; was buried , Ayr Cemetery, Ayr, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.
    5. Arthur Hardress Stevenson was born 29 Sep 1871, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; died 1962; was buried , Fletts Springs Cemetery, Flett Springs, Prince Albert Census Division, Saskatchewan, Canada.
    6. Mary Stevenson was born 1 Feb 1874, Paris, Brant County, Ontario, Canada; died Yes, date unknown.
    7. Hedley Vicars Stevenson was born 6 Jul 1876, , Ontario, Canada; died 15 Feb 1950; was buried , Enderby Cliffside Cemetery, Enderby, , British Columbia, Canada.
    8. James Wallace Stevenson was born 5 Jul 1878, Paris, Brant County, Ontario, Canada; died 25 Mar 1959, Saskatoon, , Saskatchewan, Canada; was buried , Woodlawn Cemetery, Saskatoon, , Saskatchewan, Canada.


Generation: 4

  1. 8.  Archibald Watson was born 1816, , Scotland (son of Archibald Watson and Margaret); died 2 Dec 1873, Ayr, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; was buried , Ayr Cemetery, Ayr, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.

    Other Events:

    • FindAGrave: https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/134834677
    • Eby ID Number: Waterloo-131714
    • Occupation: 1861, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Moulder
    • Residence: 1861, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Free Church
    • Occupation: 1871, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Moulder
    • Residence: 1871, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Ayr
    • Residence: 1871, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; Presbyterian

    Notes:

    Perished, In the Conflagration at Nithvale Mills on Tuesday, 2nd December, 1873, Archibald Watson, Aged 56 Years. Funeral Will take place on Friday, the 5th inst., at 2 o'clock, p.m. Ayr, Dec. 4th, 1873.


    Waterloo Historical Society Death Notices Collection - photocopies

    ______________________________


    AYR Loss of the Nithvale Mills by Fire
    A MAN BURNED TO DEATH IN THE CONFLAGRATION

    (From our own Correspondent)

    Last Tuesday evening shortly after 9 o'clock a very destructive fire broke out here, involving the complete loss of Mr. Piper's flouring mills at Nithvale, and accompanied by one of the most appalling calamities that has ever occurred in the neighbourhood viz.: -the death of one of our best known and most respected citizens, Mr. Archibald Watson, brother of John Watson, Esq., and for upward of twenty years back foreman in this gentleman's moulding shop.

    The fire, when first discovered by Mr. J. Piperhad burst out through the corner of one of the upper flats of the mill, and was apparently slight--so slight that Mr. P., seizing two pails of water rushed up with them expecting that he could easily distinguish it; but he had no sooner reached the top of the stairs than he was glad to return again, to avoid suffocation from smoke. By this time a number had collected and, the alarm having been given scores continued to pour in with the fire engine and its accompaniment. But a few minutes rendered it plainly manifest that with the headway which the fire had already made, all efforts to save the mill would be worse than useless, and so the hose were directed on the oat meal mill adjacent to save it.

    The latter was saved, but in less than two and a half hours from the commencement of the fire the mill was a smouldering mass of ruins. Mr. Piper has the sympathy of the community in this serious loss--a loss which is double in its character, for the season's business has gone with the mill. The mill and contents not saved were worth about $12000, to meet which his insurance policies cover but $6000. Mr. P. is not, we believe, fully decided as to his future course, that is whether he will rebuild or not, but in the meantime he will fit up the Jedburgh Mills for present use.

    First amongst those who arrived at the fire was the deceased Mr. Watson, who, with his wonted alacrity on such occasions, began immediately to remove valuables out of the burning building. In this several assisted, until the approaching flames obliged them to desist, and they turned their attention to the other minor structures around the outside. Mr. Watson, however, thought he could effect one entrance more and save one of the large window sashes of the mill. Everyone around him warned him not to attempt such a thing, but apparently confident of success, he seized a small hatchet, entered the doorway and soon appeared at an open window between the door and the one he wished to save. Here he stood for an instant, when he again was again entreated to come out. He refused, however, and passed on to the other, which he began to hammer lustily in order to loosen it from its fastenings. The noise having been heard outside by some persons who were unaware of the facts, they at once raised the cry "there is a man in the mill", and one of them thinking the knocking was caused by the man's efforts to extricate himself, got a long pole and with a blow broke in the window. Ere this, however, Mr. Watson, evidently finding he had already gone too far, had left the window and was making apparently for the door. The whole lower flat was then literally one blaze and long tongues of flame had begun to dart out through the doors and windows, thus preventing not only ingress to the mill, but even an approach to it from the outside of less than twenty feet. Again the unfortunate man was seen at the middle window making his way to the door. An instant afterwards he appeared at the door in a similar position and the people began to experience some sense of relief as they expected in a moment more to have him amongst them--but horror! he passes by without even noticing the opening and makes apparently for the densest portion of the flames. Again he stops, turns back, and again he is observed in the doorway, but this time only for an instant as he dashes wildly by toward the centre of the mill where he falls. All this was the work of probable not more than ten minutes from first to last.

    Some ladies outside, who had seen the unfortunate man on his second appearance at the doorway gave vent to their feelings in a few unearthly shrieks and never will the writer forget the look of blank dismay, intensified by the glare of the fire, which depicted every countenance as the reports spread. "Archie Watson is burned to death?" One moment all were paralysed; the next, engine was playing vigorously on the fatal spot, in hopes of saving at least a part of the remains of our respected friend; but all to little purpose, for though an almost continuous steam was kept upon on it all night, the most diligent search afterwards revealed only a few small particles of bones so thoroughly calcined that the slightest pressure would reduce them to powder, a buckle and one or two buttons belonging to the deceased, all of which could readily be placed in a quart measure. And this was all that now remained of the man who, a few hours before was in the enjoyment of good health, strength and spirit, in the bosom of his family. We have seen death in repulsive forms; we have read or heard of it in many others, but rarely, within our recollection, have we known of a case so utterly barren of consolation or satisfaction of any kind, as the present one. An indulgent father, a kind husband, an excellent neighbor, and a warm-hearted and generous friend literally blotted out of existence in an hour--with nothing left to tell the tale but a handful of ashes--the thing seems too horrible to be realized. To say that the most profound sympathy exists for the bereaved family and friends would give but a very faint idea of the general feeling that prevails.

    Nothing of so sad a nature has ever before occurred in our midst, and the village has been literally silenced with sorrow under the awful stroke.

    Several theories are advanced with reference to the deceased's inability to extricate himself. He must undoubtedly have been unconscious when he gave over hammering the window sash, but we are inclined to think that, surrounded as he was by flames and inhaling as he must have done repeatedly, such quantities of carbonic acid he must have been stupefied considerably on his way to the door and this idea seems more probably from the fact that in proceeding towards the door he had to pass two large open windows at either of which he might have thrown himself out. He passed by these windows when he entered the mill. In fact, he stood in one of them: consequently he must have known of their existence and likewise that they were open. But on his return no notice apparently was taken of them although neither of them was over 4 feet from the floor. His aimless wandering from this time also renders it almost certain that he had been unconscious for some moments before he dropped.

    THE FUNERAL.--The Funeral took place on Friday afternoon, and was very largely attended. Numbers from the country round, as well as from Galt and Paris, were present to pay the last mournful token of respect to the memory of one so well-known and so universally respected. As the people began to gather, the doors of the Methodist church32, opposite the late residence of the deceased, were opened and the people assembled there to await the procession to the cemetery. While here they were addressed briefly by Rev. Mr. Inglis. Rev. Mr. Thompson read a portion of Scripture and prayer was offered up by Rev. Mr. Knowles. In the house, Prayer was offered up by Rev. Mr. Ure, of Goderich, a cousin of the deceased.33 The procession then formed and marched to the cemetery in connection with Rev. Mr. Inglis' church: the relatives, with the remains, leading followed by the workmen in Mr. John Watson's foundry-fellow-workmen of the deceased--with the badge of mourning on their arms. After these came the general public-a long and mournful procession. At the grave prayer was again offered up by Rev. Mr. Ure, and on Sabbath the same gentleman preached the funeral sermon.


    Dumfries Reformer, Galt, Ont., Wed. Dec 10, 1873, Vol. 12, #1293

    Archibald — Janet Gibb. Janet was born CA 1811, Of, Glasgow, , Lanark, Scotland; died 16 Dec 1854. [Group Sheet]


  2. 9.  Janet Gibb was born CA 1811, Of, Glasgow, , Lanark, Scotland; died 16 Dec 1854.

    Other Events:

    • Name: Janet Watson
    • Eby ID Number: Waterloo-58631

    Children:
    1. 4. James Gibb Watson was born 15 Nov 1841, Glasgow, , Lanark, Scotland; died 24 Jun 1915, Ayr, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; was buried , Ayr Cemetery, Ayr, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.

  3. 10.  James Bishop was born 1807, of, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; died 28 Sep 1839; was buried , Ayr Cemetery, Ayr, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.

    Other Events:

    • Eby ID Number: Waterloo-251790P
    • Land: 1861, North Dumfries Concession 08 Lot 27, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada
    • Land: 1861, North Dumfries Concession 07 Lot 27, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada

    James — Mary Haggart. Mary was born 1810, , New York State, USA; died 18 Feb 1896, Ayr, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; was buried , Ayr Cemetery, Ayr, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada. [Group Sheet]


  4. 11.  Mary Haggart was born 1810, , New York State, USA; died 18 Feb 1896, Ayr, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; was buried , Ayr Cemetery, Ayr, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.

    Other Events:

    • Name: Mary Bishop
    • Eby ID Number: Waterloo-251787P
    • Residence: 1861, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; United Presbyterian
    • Residence: 1881, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; C. Presbyterian

    Children:
    1. James Bishop was born CALC 23 Dec 1835, , Ontario, Canada; died 7 Jan 1866, , Ontario, Canada; was buried , Ayr Cemetery, Ayr, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.
    2. 5. Sarah Elizabeth Bishop was born 16 Jan 1840, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; died 24 Jun 1923, Ayr, North Dumfries Twp., Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada; was buried 26 Jun 1923, Ayr Cemetery, Ayr, Waterloo Region, Ontario, Canada.