Biographical Sketch of

William Hamilton

Transcribed by Char Eckman



Source: Portrait and Biographical Album of Green Lake, Marquette and Waushara Counties, Wisconsin, 
published 1890 by Acme Publishing Co., Chicago, Pages 570 - 571

William Hamilton, whose home is situated in the town of Westfield, Marquette County, has passed almost his entire life 
in this community where his parents settled when he was but four years of age.  He is of Irish birth, having first 
opened his eyes to the light of day on the Emerald Isle, in 1848, and his parents were also natives of the same country.  
Determining to try their fortunes in America, in 1852 they crossed the water and landed in New York City, whence they 
continued their travels until reaching Marquette County.

Amid the wild scenes of this then unsettled region our subject was reared to manhood, passing the days of his boyhood 
and youth under the parental roof.  His time was spent in assisting his father in the cultivation of the home farm and 
in attendance at the district school, where he acquired his education.  He was joined in wedlock with Miss Agnes Laing, 
daughter of Alexander and Mary (Cant) Laing, who came with their family to America in the spring of 1854.  They landed 
in Montreal, Canada, but came direct to Marquette County, Mrs. Laing having a brother, John Cant, living in the town of 
Westfield.  They made their home with that brother a short time, while Mr. Laing was seeking a location.  He finally 
chose a farm in the town of Harris, where he made his home until his death, and where his wife still resides.  They 
were parents of eight children and with the exception of two, all are living in Marquette County.  One daughter, Ellen, 
wife of Henry M. Crowell, resides in Iroquois, Dak.

Mr. and Mrs. Hamilton began their domestic life in the town of Westfield, where they have since continued to reside.  
Two children came to bless the home by their presence, a son and daughter, Nellie and Thomas A.  Mr. Hamilton follows 
the occupation of farming for a livelihood and like his brothers is one of the energetic and thrifty men of the community.

 




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