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WILLIAM H. NORRIS. There is in the business world only one kind of man who can successfully combat the many disadvantages and trials which confront him, and that is the man of superior intelligence and force of character. To this class belongs William Norris, a man who by strict integrity, shrewdness of judgment and good management has risen to the top round on the ladder of fortune. He is now the possessor of three hundred acres of land pleas antly located on section 36, Blissvillc Township, Jefferson County, and is regarded as one of the most extensive farmers and stock-growers of the county. Our subject was born in Bracken County, Ky., January 11, 1845, and was the fourth child of Joseph and Rebecca (West) Norris, natives respectively of Kentucky and Maryland. The father of our subject was a farmer for many years in his native state, which occupation he also followed after coming to Jefferson County with his family in an early day. He departed this life March 13, 1856, when in his fifty-third year. His good wife survived him many years, dying November 18, 1881, at the age of sixty-four years. William H. received a fair education in the district schools of this county, and when quite young began to aid his father in carrying on the home farm. After the death of his father he remained at home caring for his mother until nearly thirty years of age, when he purchased and operated a farm on his own account. He has ever since been engaged in agricultural pursuits and now owns three hundred acres of valuable land, which he cultivates in a manner that will bring him in the largest returns. His residence, which is a commodious and conveniently arranged structure, is pleasantly located within one-half mile of Waltonville, a thriving town situated on the Wabash, Chester & Western Railroad. Mr. Norris devotes twenty-five acres of his property to an apple orchard, which although quite young promises to be a valuable investment. The lady who became the wife of our subject November 25, 1874, was Miss Mary J., daughter of Amos and Nancy (Redden) Wells, natives of Kentucky. Their union has resulted in the birth of three children, who bear the names of Ora R., Joseph II. and Stanley W. The members of the family are well known throughout this locality and are classed among the leading people of southern Illinois. The Democratic party finds in our subject a faithful supporter. He has represented his township as Assessor, proving himself well qualified for that position by the able way in which he discharged the duties of his office. At present he is serving as Justice of the Peace. He is highly respected throughout the community in which he resides, and with each passing year continues to add to the long list of his friends.
Source: Portrait and Biographical Record of Clinton, Washington, Marion and Jefferson Counties, IL Submitted by Sandy (Whalen) Bauer |
For corrections or additions, please contact me: Sandy Bauer