John Clinton Watson (January 28, 1878 – May 8, 1970)[1][2] was a justice of the New Mexico Supreme Court from January 1, 1925 until December 31, 1934, serving as chief justice from 1933 to 1934, before being defeated in his bid for reelection that year.
Born near Alma, Michigan, Watson received his undergraduate degree from the University of Michigan in 1898, and then attended the University of Michigan Law School before completing his law degree at the George Washington University Law School.
[1] He served in the First New Mexican Infantry Regiment, "participating in the military operation against Pancho Villa" from 1916 to 1917, and attaining the rank of captain.
[1] In 1923, Governor James F. Hinkle appointed Watson to a four-year term on the State Game Commission.
[1] Watson sought reelection again in 1934, but was defeated by Democratic challenger Charles R.