William Harrison Waterman, known as William H. Waterman, was born 7 Sept. 1813 in Lamoille County, VT. He moved to Racine, WI about 1836 and married in 1842. He was a merchant, builder and politician in Racine. He and a partner opened the Smith & Waterman store. He was a volunteer firefighter and had contracts that built the court house, several hotels, Racine Exchange and parts of the docks. He was the mayor of Racine in 1851. In May 1861 he was appointed to a 4 year term as Register of the Land Offices at Falls of St. Croix, WI. After the term expired, on May 26, 1864 he was appointed Supt. of Indian Affairs for Washington Territory which was another 4 year term. He moved to Olympia, WA to fulfill his appointment. He did not complete his term because he passed away Jan. 18, 1867 in Olympia, WA.
From the description of Correspondence of William H. Waterman, 1864-1866. (Washington State Library, Office of Secretary of State). WorldCat record id: 268783363
