Charles L. Watkins

Charles Lee Watkins (August 10, 1879 – August 30, 1966) was the first and longest-serving Parliamentarian of the United States Senate.

Early life and education Watkins was born on August 10, 1879, in Mount Ida, Arkansas. He attended the University of Arkansas School of Law.

Career Watkins started his career as a clerk in the offices of the Arkansas Attorney General and of the Governor of the State of Arkansas from 1899–1901. From 1902 through 1903, Watkins was the clerk of the commission created by the Arkansas General Assembly for the creation of the infrastructure and exhibits for the Arkansas portion of the centennial exposition of the Louisiana Purchase display at the 1904 World's Fair, held in St. Louis, Missouri.

Left to right: Chesley W. Jurney, Sergeant at Arms; Leslie L. Biffle, Secretary to the Majority; Charles L. Watkins, Parliamentarian and Journal Clerk; John C. Crockett, Chief Clerk; Senator Key Pittman; Emery L. Frazier, Legislative Clerk; and Col. Edwin A. Halsey, Secretary. 6/14/37

Personal life Watkins married Martha Heard Walker in 1903 and they had one son. After Walker died, Watkins married Barbara Laura Sandmeier in 1944.