David K. Akin. Clockmaker, watchmaker, and jeweler. Yarmouth, Cape Cod, Massachusetts.

David Kelley Akin was born in the “cellar house” in Yarmouth on January 5, 1799. His parents, Abiel Akin (1770–1843) and Catherine (O'Killey) Akin (1773–1811), married in 1794. David had two brothers: Abiel and Timothy, both blacksmiths who together operated a forge on the Bass River.

David was a member of the Yarmouth Society of Friends. This Quaker sect was established after 1790, when David Kelley purchased land from Thomas Greenough. The property spanned both sides of Bridge Street and became known as Quaker Village. In 1808, the Quaker Meeting House was built on North Main Street.

David completed his clockmaking apprenticeship with Allen Kelley (1791–1876), a Yarmouth native and noted clockmaker. In Yarmouth, David opened his own shop and advertised himself as a clockmaker, watchmaker, and jeweler. His original building still stands, though it has been relocated several times.

David married three times. His first wife was Rachel White Peckham (1797–1848). His second wife was Betsy Freeman (1791–1881). His third wife was Betsy Crowell (1798–?).

David became a prominent businessman in the community. He invested in the shipping industry and owned a wharf on the Bass River. A packet ship, The David K Akien, was named after him. This schooner was built in 1882. Its image is included in the Town of Yarmouth's seal. He served as a trustee of the First National Bank of Yarmouth and was a founder of the Bass River Savings Bank. The seaside community boasted diverse businesses, including rope manufacturing, salt production, shoemaking, a magnesia factory, and a thriving fishing industry. Later in life, David welcomed two newly freed slave boys and a girl from the South into his home, providing them with an education that enabled them to become respected citizens in their new communities.

In 1820, David built a grand Federal-style home, which was renovated in 2011 and relocated to its current address at 34 Pleasant Street, South Yarmouth.

David K. Akin died in South Yarmouth on August 23, 1887.