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WILLIAM A. DAVIS. Through his connection with public affairs as Clerk of Jefferson County and also through his long association with the agricultural interests of McClellan Township, as the owner of a finely improved farm on section 1, the subject of this sketch has become widely and favorably known over this section of country. In every enterprise to which he gives his support he maintains a deep and unwavering interest, and his efforts have resulted in the promotion of the material welfare of the township. Mr. Davis is a native of this county, having been born in the township where he is at present residing, January 16, 1846, and is the third child in order of birth in the family of Clinton S. and Susan (Wells) Davis, natives respectively of Smith County, Tenn., and Alabama. Mr. and Mrs. Davis both accompanied their parents to Illinois when quite young. The former are still living, making their home in McClellan Township, the father being seventy-six years of age and the mother in her eighty-fourth year. The early education of our subject was received in the schools of this county, and although his advantages were not of the best he improved his spare moments and became one of the well posted men of his section. When eighteen years of age he began teaching in the district schools, following the occupation of a pedagogue during the winter season and working out on farms in the summer until reaching iiis thirtieth year. Then Mr. Davis devoted his entire time and attention to agriculture and is now one .of the leading farmers of Jefferson County. Mr. Davis is a man possessed of excellent judgment, and in 1884 his fellow-citizens honored him with the appointment of County Treasurer to fill an unexpired term. Four years later he was elected Circuit Clerk of the county, which position he filled for four years, and when his successor assumed the duties of the office he remained as his assistant for eighteen mouths. When township organization went into effect in Jefferson County, Mr. Davis was the first Clerk, which position he filled with credit to himself and satisfaction to his constituents. He has also served five years as Supervisor of his township, and is recognized as a man of extended influence in his community. The lady who became the wife of our subject November 29, 1870, was Miss Nancy G. Davis, daughter of Joseph and Rebecca Davis, natives of Tennessee. Their union has been blessed by the birth of the following seven children: Susan R., who was born October 20, 1871; Clinton, November 8, 1875; Norman, January 8, 1879; Willis, July 16, 1881; Maude, February 26, 1884; Nellie, July 25, 1887; and Johnnie P., November 24, 1889. In March, 1890, Mrs. Nancy G. Davis departed this life, and in February, 1891, our subject chose as his second wife Miss Mary J. Crosno. Her parents were Joseph and Lorinda (Howard) Crosno, natives of Tennessee. By his second marriage Mr. Davis had one son, Reuben R., who was born January 16, 1892, and died July 23, 1893, and a daughter, Nancy Loriuda, born November 27, 1893. Mr. Davis is thoroughly posted in politics, and while a Democrat in national issues, in local affairs always votes for the man whom he considers will best fill the office.
Source: Portrait and Biographical Record of Clinton, Washington, Marion and Jefferson Counties, IL |
For corrections or additions, please contact me: Sandy Bauer