WILLIAM J. ROBERTS, county superintendent of schools, and editor and proprietor of the White Hall Register, was born at Litchfield, Montgomery county, Ill., Jan. 9, 1852. His parents were Wm. H. and Charity (Martin) Roberts, natives of Illinois and Indiana, respectively. His father died Aug. 30, 1851, and his widow Nov. 18, 1875. William J. was educated in the common schools, and in the high school at Jerseyville. He has also attended several normal schools. He began business on a farm, which he followed until he was 22 years of age. After finishing his education, he followed school teaching for eight consecutive years. in June, 1881, he was appointed to fill a vacancy in the office of county superintendent. In December of the same year, he was re-appointed for one year. In November, 1882, he was elected to hold the office for a term of four years. He is well fitted for the office, both by education and experience. His early education was not obtained, however, without considerable exertion on his own part. His father having died before our subject was born, his mother was again married to George E. Smith. William J. was not favored with the education advantages he craved, and at the age of 14 years, he left home to educate himself, his stepfather not taking much stock in such matters. The last year of his teaching experience, he acted as principal of the Roodhouse schools. June 1, 1883, he bought a half interest in the Roodhouse Journal, and in August purchased a half interest in the White Hall Register. July 1, 1884, he purchased the above papers, entire. July 7, 1885, he sold a half interest in Milton Owings, and re-purchased the same Oct. 23, 1885, as related elsewhere.