James Natwick, now retired from active business, whose record in Wis. Rapids is that of a successful business man and honorable public official, was born in Dane County, WI, June 29, 1857, son of Ole and Julia (Johnson) Natwick. His early years were spent in pioneer lumbering activities, his home being Sigel Township, where his parents had brought him in 1858 and where they had made their permanent home. His educational opportunities were meager. After attending the public schools he completed a course in the LaCrosse Business College. He became a resident of Centralia (now a part of Wis. Rapids) and for six years worked for Nels Johnson & Co. as a bookkeeper, also as assistant postmaster. Then in company with Chris Nisson, he engaged in the furniture business, building a store on the west bank of the river, back of what is now the MacKinnon Block. After one year Mr. Natwick bought out his partner and at the same time was appointed postmaster by President Harrison. In 1893 he built a larger store on Grand Avenue to which he moved and where he continued in the furniture business until he sold out in 1921. H was for many years one of the best known merchants in the city and had made an honorable record for integrity and efficiency. Mr. Natwick is a Republican in politics and on several occasions rendered good service in public office. He was city clerk for three years and city treasurer one year. He is a member and deacon of the Congregational church and belongs to the Woodmen of the World and to the Equitable Fraternal Union. Although now practically retired he deals to some extent in real estate and looks after his apartment. Mr. Natwick was married June 23, 1886, to Henrietta Lyon, who was born in Centralia, Feb, 21, 1864, daughter of Reuben and Esther J. (Hill) Lyon. He and his wife are the parents of eight children; Franklin James, Ruby E., Myron H., Albert Guy, Donald L., Gladys J., John Wesley and Vernon George.