Jefferson County Journal (Adams, NY) - Obituaries

"One of the first to enter the town of Watertown was Jacob Stears, born at Johnstown, N.Y., Jan. 27th, 1792, he came to Watertown with his uncle, John Blivin, in 1803. Mr. Blivin taking up a farm where he resided until his death, and which Mr. Stears has since occupied. In 1816 he married Sallie Pratt, sister of Gen. T. R. Pratt, of Watertown, who died in 1838, leaving three sons, Solomon B., Albert, since deceased, and Jacob Jr. In 1840 he married Mrs. Barlow, who still survives him. A kind husband, an indulgent father, a good neighbor, a genial friend. His illness was brief. He retained his faculties in a remarkable degree to the last, and died as peaceful as he had lived, March 6th, 1874, Aged 82 years 1 month and 7 days. W.R.S."

"Jacob Stears Dead.
On a valuable farm near Watertown lived Jacob Stears, who died suddenly on Tuesday, Sept. 29. He arose at five and walked into the dining room, where he was found by the girl about half an hour afterwards.
Mrs. Dr. Mansfield was brought from the city by his nephew, Albert Stears, but medicine was of no avail. Jacob Stears has figured in local politics for many years and has the long­est record as clerk of the Jefferson county board of supervisors, having almost completed 20 years service. He was the youngest of three children of Jacob and Sally Stears and was born in Watertown, Dec. 8, 1828 on the farm where he has always resided. In 1860 he was elected assessor of the old town of Watertown, and served in that capacity until the incorporation of the city of Watertown...(then his civil positions listed)"