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Jarvis Curtis Harrison, Sr

1856 - 1934

Illness Jarvis Curtis Harrison, for many years engaged in business here, died this morning at his home, 205 Washington Street. Death was due to a heart attack. Mr. Harrison had been in poor health for the past two years. Last May he retired from business.

He for man years conducted a cigar store and newsstand in West Main Street. He was born in Norwalk, 0., on July 13, 1856, a son of Timothy and Susan Harrison. His mother died when he was two years of age. With his father he came to Wisconsin when he was eight years old. They lived for some time in Milwaukee and then came to Watertown where he grew to manhood. His first job was with the firm of Straw & Murphy, now the J. B. Murphy Co. Later he went into the grocery business [114 W Main, 1897 city dir] which he conducted for 28 years.

Operated Cigar Store

The last 15 years he operated the cigar store and only when constantly failing health forced him to retire did he dispose of the business. He was also, in his earlier years, head of the commissary department of the Illinois Central Road and lived in Chicago, but always considered Watertown his home.

He was married on October 14, 1880, to Miss Anna Eger. She survives. There is one daughter, Mrs. John Sund, of this city, and one son, Curtis Jarvis Harrison, who, is associated with Photoplay magazine and who is in Chicago. There is one grandson, Curtis Jarvis Harrison, Jr. Mr. Harrison was a member of, the Masonic fraternity and was one of the oldest members in Watertown.

The death of Mr. Harrison removes a familiar figure in the; community. Until ill health overtook him he was active every day of his life. Of late he was still active about his home and took a great pride in it. Yesterday afternoon he sat up in a chair. This morning a heart attack seized him and he died shortly after. His wife and daughter were at his bedside. His son is now enroute to Watertown from Chicago.

Mr. Harrison was a man of sterling character. He was a good business man and to his family circle he was a much beloved and respected character. As a neighbor he was liked and he enjoyed the friendship of a great many people in the community.

The funeral arrangements will not be completed until after the son's arrival in the city and will be announced later.

Is buried in Oak Hill Cemetery.