John Wootton, known to his friends as Jack, was born in Rockton, July 19, 1890, the son of Fred and Mary Clarey Wootton. He was employed at Fairbanks Morse and Company for many years, re-tiring in 1960. Jack married the former Merle Row and the couple celebrated their Golden Wedding Anniversary in 1960.

In the 1930’s Jack pitched for Beloit and state semi-pro baseball teams. He was an active booster of sports and recreation. He first took public office in 1922, when he was elected seventh ward alderman and served in this capacity until 1928. In 1934 he was elected to the Beloit City Council and his tenure continued until April 15, 1958. He was elected president of the City Council of Beloit for the seventh successive time in 1949.

Upon his retirement from political life, Jack received a letter of appreciation which was signed by 382 city employees. He had served as alderman and councilman for thirty years. He was voted the “Outstanding Citizen of Beloit” by the Jaycees in 1959 and received an award. During his council years, Mr. Wootton fostered plans to return land on Fourth Street into the present park. Upon first viewing the “Welcome to John T. Wootton Park” sign in front of the Fourth Street recreation area, he remarked, “This is something most men so honored seldom live to see.” He died on January 28, 1969 at the age of seventy-eight.