WILLIAM C. RAINEY, a representative of the agricultural interests of Greene county, was born in Carrollton on the 7th of November, 1861, a son of John and Catherine (Thomas) Rainey, who are mentioned elsewhere in this volume in connection with the sketch of their son Hon. Henry T. Rainey. At the usual age William C. Rainey entered the public schools and in 1881 was graduated from Jones Commercial College, of St. Louis. When he had put aside his text brooks he became connected with mercantile life as a partner in his father's grocery store, under the firm name of Rainey & Son and continued in that business for four years. On the expiration of that period he turned his attention to farming, taking charge of his mother's land in the northwestern part of Kane township, having here a farm of two hundred and twenty-six acres, to the further development and improvement of which he has since given his undivided attention. He carries on general farming and has raised large quantities of grain and stock, practically feeding all of the products to the cattle which he fattens for the market. He follows the most progressive methods of farming, uses the latest improved machinery in caring for the fields and in the conduct of his business displays keen foresight and enterprise that have been substantial factors in winning him desirable success.
On the 15th of March, 1892, Mr. Rainey was married to Miss Nettie Linder, of Greene county, Illinois, a daughter of Johnson Linder and a granddaughter of Isham Linder, one of the old and highly respected citizens of this locality. Mr. and Mrs. Rainey now have two children, John and Mary.
While residing in Carrollton Mr. Rainey served as alderman of the city for three years and since his removal to the farm he has filled the position of school director in his district. He is a highly respected man, enjoying the good will and confidence of his fellow townsmen by reason of his honorable life and sterling traits of character. In politics he is a Democrat and he is a member of the Modern Woodmen of America.