Walton, E. P. (Eliakim Persons), 1812-1890

Elikiam Persons Walton, a well-respected editor in Vermont, was born in Montpelier, VT on February 17, 1812, the son of General Ezkiel Parker and Prussia Walton. In 1833 he partnered with his father in the publication of the Vermont Watchman and State Gazette and started a career in the general printing and publishing, bookbinding, and paper-making business. In 1853 he became the sole owner of the Vermont Watchman and State Gazette until he sold it in 1868.

Walton also became a reluctant but active participant in Vermont politics representing Montpelier in the legislature in 1853. He later served as a representative in Congress from 1857-1863 and from 1874-1878 he served as a senator from Washington County. He was also president of the Vermont Editors' and Publishers' Association from its organization until 1881 and president of the Vermont Historical Society from 1876 until his death.

He married twice, first to Sarah Sophia, daughter of Joseph Howes of Montpelier who died in 1880. He married again in 1882 to Mrs. Clara P. Field of Columbus, Ohio. Walton died December 19, 1890.