Atwood, John

Atwood, John, a Baptist minister, was born at Hudson, N. H., Oct. 3, 1795. - He was a graduate in the theological class connected with Waterville College. in 1822. For two .or three years subsequent to his graduation he preached as a supply in Readnfield, Me., and in New London and Pittsfield, N. H. His ordination took place in New Boston, N. H., May 18, 1825. Here he remained as pastor eleven years. Subsequently he became pastor of the Church in Francestown, and held the office one year; then removed to Hillsboronugh, where his ministry covered a period of seven years. About. the year 1847 he was elected State treasurer, and was in office six years, during a part of which time he served. as chaplain of the State prison. The Democratic party in New Hampshire, in 1851, nominated him as their candidate for governor of the State. Having given offence to the party by the utterance of his free-soil sentiments, he was abandoned by them. For about twenty years he lived on his farm in New Boston, occasionally preaching, as opportunity presented, until his death, which occurred April 28, 1873. Mr. Atwood was highly respected for character and talent. See Supplement No. 1 to the Colby University Obit. Record, p. 6. (J. C. S.)