Thomas Watson (c. 1620—1686) was an English, non-conformist, Puritan

preacher and author. He was educated at Emmanuel College, Cambridge,

where he was noted for remarkably intense study. In 1646 he

commenced a sixteen year pastorate at St. Stephen's, Walbrook. He

showed strong Presbyterian views during the civil war, with, however,

an attachment to the king, and in 1651 he was imprisoned briefly with

some other ministers for his share in Christopher Love's plot to recall

Charles II of England. He was released on 30 June 1652, and was formally

reinstated as vicar of St. Stephen's Walbrook. He obtained great fame

and popularity as a preacher until the Restoration, when he was ejected

for nonconformity. Not withstanding the rigor of the acts against dissenters,

Watson continued to exercise his ministry privately as he found

opportunity. Upon the Declaration of Indulgence in 1672 he obtained a

license to preach at the great hall in Crosby House. After preaching there

for several years, his health gave way, and he retired to Barnston, Essex,

where he died suddenly while praying in secret. He was buried on 28

July 1686.

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