GEN. JOHN WALTER ATWOOD, son of James S. Atwood, was born at Wauregan, Conn., May 18, 1864. Completing the public school course at Wauregan, he entered Phillips Academy at Andover, Mass., and later the Sheffield Scientific School of Yale College. Like his twin brother, he then entered the Wauregan Mills, in order to thoroughly learn the details of cotton manufacturing. In 1888 he was made superintendent of the mills, which position he efficiently fills at the present time. Mr. Atwood also owns other large manufacturing interests and has done much toward making Wauregan one of the most prosperous and attractive manufacturing villages in the State.

"Prior to his election to the State Legislature, in 1899, Gen. Atwood, although an active Republican, and a leader in the councils of his party, had always declined office, choosing to be known as a great manufacturer rather than a public official. However, he was a valuable member of the important committee on Appropriations while in the Legislature, and won a large circle of firm friends at the Capitol. He was commissioned commissary general on the staff of Gov. Lounsbury until July 1, 1899, when, on the resignation of H. O. Averill, he was made paymaster general, to which office he was re-appointed by Gov. McLean. Gen. Atwood is one of the most popular citizens of his section of the State, his high personal character, pure statesmanship and business ability commanding the confidence and esteem of all who know him.

"On June 1, 1887, Gen. Atwood was united in marriage with Miss Ethel Alexander, daughter of Luther D. and Amelia (Young) Alexander. The two children born to Gen. and Mrs. Atwood are: Helen Estelle and Beatrice."

—Commemorative Biographical Record of Tolland and Windham Counties Connecticut Containing Biographical Sketches of Prominent and Representative Citizens and of Many of the Early Settled Families, Chicago: J. H. Beers, 1903, p. 74.