The Mathewson family occupied a prominent place in Windham County for several generations. His grandfather, Joseph Mathewson, had purchased the historic farm formerly owned by General Putnam, and it was here that Rufus was born and lived until he was eleven years of age. He fitted himself to enter Yale and studied medicine for a time but gave up these plans at his father’s solicitation to become a farmer. He was engaged in farming in Woodstock for thirty-three years, then, after a year spent in Mississippi, removed to Pomfret. He held many positions of honor and trust in civic and political life. When the New York and New England railroad was projected he was appointed to the difficult task of appraiser of property along the route, while his services as administrator and trustee were frequently sought. In the years 1861 and 1862 he represented his town in the Legislature and was often selectman. He was for many years bank examiner of the state and was one of the incorporators and a director of the Putnam National Bank and the Putnam Savings Bank. He was active in Masonic circles, as a member of Putnam Lodge, No. 46. He was a firm and generous supporter of the Congregational Church.³