[1] Wattles was said to possess "all the right credentials to direct Omaha's fortunes for the twentieth century in the post-pioneer era: humble beginnings, outstanding ability, a fine intellect, impeccable manners, driving ambition, and a ruthless streak.

One of his distant relatives from his father's side is Edward Everett, an American politician and president of Harvard University.

During the summer before his junior year at Iowa Agricultural College in 1878, Wattles’ lungs began to bleed and he was told by a physician that he suffered from consumption (the same disease by which his brother and sister had died).

[5] After losing re-election in 1880 for a second two-year term as county superintendent of schools Wattles was motivated to complete his legal studies.

Soon after, he convinced his parents to move there, and at their behest, he donated a lot to the Trinity Episcopal Church congregation to build an edifice.

By focusing directly on assisting the many German immigrants who wanted to farm in eastern Nebraska during this time the Farmer's Bank "prospered beyond our fondest hopes.

[14] In 1905, Wattles became the president, and then the chairman of the board of the United States National Bank of Omaha, serving until 1920.

Wattles was a director of the Chicago Great Western Railroad, and was responsible for the construction of the Omaha landmark Hotel Fontenelle in 1914.

During the grand parade for the expo, Wattles rode alongside William Jennings Bryan, a three-time candidate for president of the United States, who was also a close friend.

[19] Noted Omaha architect Thomas Rogers Kimball designed the Wattles House in the popular historical revival Chateauesque style.

[21] In April 1905, Wattles purchased ninety acres in Hollywood, California to build a home for rest and recreation.

[22] Noted local architects Myron Hunt and Elmer Grey designed the Mission Revival residence in 1907.

"[24] Wattles permanently relocated his family to their new California home in January, 1922, opening an office in the Hellman Bank Building at 7th and Spring Street in Downtown Los Angeles.