Arthur W. Woodworth

Arthur Wellington Woodworth (May 7, 1823 – February 10, 1919), was the founder and President of the First National Bank of Enosburgh, a Vermont State Senator and Representative, and member of the Woodworth political family.

Arthur was born in 1823 in Enosburgh, Vermont, the son of William S. Woodworth and Patience Stevens.^[1] He was educated in the local village schools, while receiving career training as a carpenter from his father. He labored in that field until 1844, when he went to work in St. Albans for a local judge as a farmhand. He returned to Enosburgh where he purchased his own farm.^[1]

Woodworth became a director of the Central Vermont Railyard, and owned the Lumber Manufacturing Co. until 1900. He also served as a director of the St. Albans Savings Bank and Trust Co.^[1][2] After retiring from the lumber industry, he devoted his time to his other business and real estate interests, which included 1,400 acres (5.7 km²) and a sawmill in Westfield, 500 acres (2.0 km²) in Sheldon, several farms, a mill in Sampsonville^[3] and a creamery in Enosburg.^[1]

Woodworth was described as a self-made man of integrity and sound judgment who always had a hand out to those in need.^[2]

In 1905, Woodworth founded the First National Bank of Enosburgh, becoming the President and one of the directors.^[1] The bank began with capital of $25,000^[4] and steadily grew thereafter under his leadership.^[1]

Woodworth cast his first Presidential vote for Henry Clay in 1846,^[5] and became a Republican in the near future, serving as a selectman, constable, and lister.^[3] In 1858, he was elected to the Vermont General Assembly, serving a term.^[5] In 1879, he was elected to the State Senate, where he served on the General and Grand List Committees.^[6]

It was said that Woodworth was above political tricks and cheap intrigues often found in public life.^[5]

As a Senator in 1880, Woodworth introduced S. 67, which provided for the protection of domestic animals.^[6]

Woodworth married Adaline Ladd, daughter of Alpheus Ladd and Jane French. They had one daughter, Linnie, who married Walter V. Phelps, a business partner of her father who was also a State Representative and eventual nominee for State Treasurer.^[5]