COLLINS POTTER was born in the village of Wells, Rutland County, Vermont, Apr. 9, 1814.  While still a lad he began to learn the trade of a millwright, working first with David Hitchcock, and, afterward, with Robert Wickham.  He followed his chosen occupation from 1830 to 1896,  when he retired.  During these sixty-six years he had from ten to twenty men under his supervision, and often a great many more.  Besides building grist mills, starch mills, and creameries, he also built many dams and bridges.  His work required his presence in the South for ten or twelve years, except during the heated season.  One heavy job was in Georgia, near Augusta.  This consisted in building a mill on a large plantation, upon which about five hundred slaves were employed, about sixty of whom were at his command.  Mr. Potter constructed nearly all the dams on the Pawlet River, and built mills throughout many parts of the United States.  He has never married nor been a member of any order, society, or church.  He has also ignored politics.  His home has been in Pawlet, since he was seven years old.  Mr. Potter enjoys the distinction of being one of the most expert millwrights in the United States.
Source:  Book of Biographies, containing Biographical Sketches of Leading Citiznes of Rutland Co., Vt - Publ. 1899 - Page 13