WILLIAMS, THOMAS R. - Cass County has some very substantial farmers who are bending their energies to make this section one of the most important ones in the state from an agricultural standpoint. That they are succeeding, the prosperity of men like Thomas R. Williams, farmer and thresher, goes to prove. He was born at Bertie, N.C., June 1, 1850, a son of Williamson A. and Margaret (Thomas) Williams, the former born January 12, 1812, both being natives of North Carolina. The father was a farmer who lived in North Carolina until he came to Cass County, Ill., where he bought a farm of 120 acres and the family settled upon it.

Thomas R. Williams grew up amid rural surroundings, and attended the schools of his district. Although he farms 600 acres of land, he makes his home at Bluff Springs, where he owns his residence. Ever since the organization of the Beardstown State Bank, Mr. Williams has been a director. For three years he served as a school director. He belongs to Bluff Springs Camp, M.W.A. No. 489, and he is a Methodist in religious faith.

In 1873 Mr. Williams was married to Elizabeth Reichert, and they had three children: Charles F., John F. and Howard L. On February 14, 1900, Mr. Williams was married in Cass County to Elizabeth Wright of Cass County. Her parents were farming people. Mr. Williams is a man who devotes himself to his business, but he enjoys his social relations and has many warm personal friends.