WILLIAM HALLIDAY. A whole souled open hearted native of the Emerald Isle, our subject emigrated at an early day to this Mecca of Irishmen, where can be found the liberty and freedom which they do not enjoy under British rule. Having no flag of its own, the subjects of Ireland become the most devoted and loyal adherents under our American banner. Mr. Halliday who is loyalty itself to American principles is a resident on section 34, of Shipman Township.
Our subject's father was William Halliday, who died in Ireland. His mother was Martha (Clark) Halliday, who was born in Ireland, and emigrated with her son to this country, now making her home with him. William Halliday was born August 28, 1842. He came to America in 1859 and soon after proceeded to Shipman Township, arriving here the 10th of June, 1859.
For some time our subject was engaged as a farm laborer hiring himself by the month and gaining but small remuneration for his work, but thrifty and prudent, in 1863 he was enabled to rent a tract of land which he farmed for himself. He then purchased one hundred and twenty acres in Brighton Township, which he afterward sold and now owns two hundred and forty acres in this township. Upon this tract he has placed good improvements and has a pleasant and comfortable home.
Like most young men Mr. Halliday looked forward to having a home of his own, over which the choice of his heart should preside. His dream was realized, his marriage taking place June 6, 1876 in Hilyard Township to Miss Ida Moore, who was a native of the place in which she was married, being there born, July 17, 1852. The lady's father was Benjamin Moore. Her mother was Harriet Scoffield Moore. The latter died in Hilyard Township.
The original of this sketch and his bright and attractive wife are the parents of seven children. They are: Annie, Dollie, Fannie, Alice, Amanda V., Grover C. and Hattie M. In his political view like so many of his countrymen Mr. Halliday is a Democrat, the theories harmonizing with his ideals of personal freedom and the platform being that which in his estimation tends to the advancement of national aggrandizement. Since coming to this country he of whom we write has always been engaged in farming and stock raising. In the latter branch of industry he has been very successful, having bred some animals of which he may well be proud.