Ruff Watson is remembered as a hard worker, shrewd businessman and successful farmer. When Ruff first opened the feed store, he owned only half of it, partnering in business with his brother-in-law. However, when his brother-in-law decided to open a saloon in the second story of the building, Ruff's wife, Effie, put her foot down. She informed Ruff that he either had to sell his half of the business or buy his brother-in-law out. Ruff bought the business and converted part of the second story into a dance hall instead of a saloon.