John Watts (politician)

John Watts (August 27, 1749–September 3, 1836) was an American lawyer and politician from New York City who represented New York in the U.S. House.

Life

Born in New York City, Watts completed preparatory studies and studied law. He was the last recorder of New York under the English Crown. Watts later served as a member of the New York State Assembly from 1791 to 1793, serving as speaker during these three terms. He was a member of the commission to build Newgate Prison, New York City, 1796-1799.

Watts was elected [ to the Third United States Congress (March 4, 1793 to March 3, 1795). [ [http://elmer.lib.tufts.edu:8080/aas_portal/view-election.xq?id=MS115.002.NY.1793.00015] Election result] He was defeated in his run for reelection by Edward Livingston [ [http://elmer.lib.tufts.edu:8080/aas_portal/view-election.xq?id=MS115.002.NY.1794.00007] Election result] . He later served as a judge of Westchester County, New York from 1802 to 1807 and founded and endowed the Leake and Watts Orphan House. Watts died in New York City and is interred in a vault in Trinity Churchyard. He was the great-uncle of Philip Kearny, who was interred in his vault until removed to Arlington National Cemetery.

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*CongBio|W000211