Was a lineal descendant from the first settlers of Worcester. His
influence with his fellow citizens was seldom surpassed. For twelve
years, from 1810 to 1830, he was elected one of the selectmen of the
town of Worcester. For ten years he represented the town in the
Legislature of Massachusetts. He held office under the United States
Government in the war of 1812. For many years he was one of the County
Commissioners for the county of Worcester, and for many years a deputy
sheriff within and for said county. All the duties of these various
offices he discharged with kindness and ability. He was a man of strict
integrity, upright and honorable in all business transactions, and
commanded the respect and esteem of all who had the pleasure of his
acquaintance. He was a member of this society for thirty-three years. He
died in Worcester, May 4th, 1859, at the age of ninety-three. His
daughter now owns and occupies the estate on the west side of Main
street, where Mr. Eaton resided most of his lifetime.
Very few men have lived in Worcester who understood the workings of the
human mind among the masses better than William Eaton. Hence he never
was at loss to know how to approach a man and control him under any
circumstances. His gentle and kind manner enabled him to exert a
powerful influence over his fellow citizens. This was the secret of his
great power among the people.