Encyclopedia Dubuque
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WILLIAMS, Virgil J.
WILLIAMS. Virgil J. (Meigs County, OH, Feb. 13, 1832--Walla Walla, Washington, Jan. 29, 1903). Williams arrived in Dubuque on June 18, 1852 and went to work in the foundry at the ROUSE, DEAN AND COMPANY as a pattern maker. In 1858, he became a partner in the firm and in 1860 started V. J. WILLIAMS AND COMPANY, dealers in agricultural equipment. (1)
With the start of the CIVIL WAR, Williams enlisted and was wounded at the Battle of Wilson's Creek. After convalescing, he re-enlisted and was commissioned a captain and remained in service until 1865. returned to Dubuque and served four years as postmaster. He was elected to two terms as county treasurer serving from January 1, 1874, to December 31, 1877. He also served as a director of the DUBUQUE COUNTY BANK, DUBUQUE BUILDING AND LOAN ASSOCIATION and director and treasurer of the DUBUQUE FIRE AND MARINE INSURANCE COMPANY. (2)
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Source:
1. "V. J. Williams Dead," Dubuque Telegraph-Herald, January 29, 1903, p. 3
2. Portrait and Biographical Record of Dubuque, Jones and Clayton Counties, Iowa. Chicago: Chapman Publishing Company, 1894, p. 347