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Natta (Nettie) Holmes
1863 - 1939
Portrait in Society Collection
WDT 03 17 1939
Mrs. S. E. Holmes, Kin of City’s Founder, Is Dead
Mrs. Sheldon E. Holmes, 519 West Street, granddaughter of Watertown's first settler, Timothy Johnson, died last evening at her home at the age of 75 years. She had been in failing health for some time.
Mrs. Holmes' mother was Jane Johnson, daughter of Timothy Johnson and her father was John A. Chadwick.
In 1936, during the city's centennial celebration, Mrs. Holmes reigned as the centennial queen and occupied one of the floats in the parade.
Cross Reference:
MRS. SHELDON E. HOLMES,
CENTENNIAL QUEEN
She was one of the citizens here who was most interested in the centennial plans and expressed joy at having been spared long enough to be able to witness the celebration honoring her grandfather and for being able to take an active part in the festivities.
Mrs. Holmes was active in many affairs here, notable in St. Paul's Episcopal church and the Women's Guild, as well as the Saturday Club. When the Watertown Historical Society was formed she became active in that. For years she was also interested in theatricals and was a member of the group known as the Alumni Players which staged a series of successful home talent shows over a period of years. Her last public performance was in the production, “Going Straight,” which was staged in Turner Hall.
She was born in Watertown on November 11, 1883, her birth taking place in the present home which she and Mr. Holmes occupied. Her maiden name was Netta Chadwick and her entire life was spent in Watertown. She married Mr. Holmes on June 28, 1894.
Surviving are her husband, a brother, Allen H. Chadwick, Robertsdale, Ala., and a sister, Mrs. James Harvey Denting, who resides in Macon, Ga., but who is now in the city, having taken care of Mrs. Holmes during her last illness.
Mrs. Holmes was interested in literature and music and possessed a keen mind. For a friend one could ask no better. She was helpful and always willing to assist in any community undertaking. She loved Watertown and its people and took pride in the community. A friend to old and young alike, her name must be placed with those other fine women who helped make this a better community.
The funeral will be held Monday at 2:30 p.m. from the Schmutzler funeral home, the Rev. H. W. T. Pallett, rector of St. Paul’s church, officiating. Interment will be in Oak Hill cemetery. Friends may call at the funeral home Sunday from 3 to 9 p. m, and Monday up to the hour of the service.
History of Watertown, Wisconsin