Born parish of Dollar Clackmannanshire County Scotland 1850.
Father John Paton a carpenter and Jane Gibson his mother.
From a ploughman in Scotland to an engineer in New Zealand.
Henry was employed with the New Zealand Railways progressing from Engineman to Engine Driver until his retirement after 35 years of employment.
In 1898 as Engine-man Sub-Class 5 Grade 2 his salary was 11 S with length of service 19 years and 7 months. In 1910 after 31 years 7 months employment his salary was 12s 6d. position Engine Driver Sub-Class 8 Grade 1.