Statement of Significance (as of designation - July 19, 1964):
Elkanah Watson was a diplomat during the Revolution -- he delivered the final peace treaty to George III in 1782 --- a canal promoter, educator, businessman, banker and agriculturist. He organized his first fair in 1810, the idea being to promote better crops and livestock through a spirit of competition. Winners in each category received ribbons as prizes. This house was constructed in Port Kent in 1828 for Watson, who had helped to found the town.