J. W. Williams, proprietor of Walnut Grove stock farm, is one of the leading breeders and shippers of Poland China hogs in the State of Indiana, and since 1868 he has devoted his attention to this business. His stock is pure breed, and all recorded in the Ohio and Central Poland China Records. His orders to all points are promptly filled and always give satisfaction. He has sold and shipped hogs in every State of the Union and to Europe, and throughout the Union; wherever he has exhibited his stock he has carried off the leading prizes, until the name of J. W. Williams has become familiar in connection with fine swine and is a guarantee of pure stock.
Mr. Williams is the pioneer in his business in Northern Indiana and his success in life is due to his own preserving energy and good business management. He has resided on the same farm in Jackson Township since 1868, where he has 300 acres of valuable land, his land being well improved and highly cultivated. He has a large barn 48 x 64 feet, a large building for his hogs, and a comfortable residence. Everything about the place betokens care and thrift, and the farm is considered one of the best in Jay County.
Mr. Williams is a native of Jay County, Indiana, born in Wayne Township, November 10, 1845, a son of Samuel K. Williams, a prominent citizen of Jackson Township. His early life was passed on his father’s farm, and his education was received in the common schools of the county. He was united in marriage August 25, 1867, to Miss Rhoda A. Gardiner of Jay County, she being a daughter of William and Mahala Gardiner. Of the nine children born to this union six are living – Worthy C., Emily J., William, Rhoda, Lola and James Harrison. Samuel M., Wealthy E. and Nellie are deceased. Mrs. Williams died January 21, 1879, and September 2, 1879, Mr. Williams married Maggie Hoffman, a daughter of John and Mary Hoffman.
Genial in manner, a man of strict integrity and honorable in all his dealings, Mr. Williams has gained the confidence of all with whom he has business or social intercourse.
Biographical & Historical Record of Jay County, Indiana, Lewis Publishing Company, 1887
Transcribed by Jim Cox