Watch Officer Jonathan Houghton, Boston Watch, Massachusetts

Watch Officer Jonathan Houghton

Boston Watch, Massachusetts

End of Watch Monday, December 19, 1825

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Jonathan Houghton

Watch Officer Jonathan Houghton succumbed to wounds received while on duty one week earlier when he was attacked by a man with an ax while patrolling Broad Street in the area of State Street.

It is not known what provoked the attack. Watch Officer Houghton was struck above his hip and died of his wounds seven days later. The man was convicted and hung in March 1826.

Watch Officer Houghton was survived by his wife and 15 children. His widow received a pension of one year's wages.

Bio

Age 61
Tour Not available
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Assault
Incident Date Monday, December 12, 1825
Weapon Edged weapon; Axe
Offender Executed

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Officer Houghton,
On today, the 200th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Boston.

BPA Mike Casey
United States Border Patrol(Retired)

December 20, 2025