Background
Watson was born in Scotland in 1685, probably near Dumfries.
Watson was born in Scotland in 1685, probably near Dumfries.
He worked initially painting house interiors, before turning to portraiture. In 1715 he emigrated to Perth Amboy, New Jersey. Early historian William Dunlap believed this to be the first collection of art in America.
Soldiers raided Watson"s collection and, according to Dunlap, probably distributed and destroyed many of the portraits of English heroes and kings.
Contrary to Dunlap"s knowledge, however, numerous portraits by Watson still exist today. The New Jersey Historical Society has two portraits: one of William Eier, the first mayor of Perth Amboy, and one of Governor William Burnet.
Watson died in 1768 and is buried in Saint Peter"s Episcopal Cemetery in Perth Amboy.