WILLIAMSON, THOMAS S. - One of the oldest citizens of Cass County, Ill., both in age and period of residence, is Thomas S. Williamson, whose time of arrival in this section is suggestive of pioneer conditions in western Illinois, and the manner of his making the journey partook of the primitive means of travel prevailing in the early days of the country's settlement. Wonderful changes have taken place since the birth of Mr. Williamson, and stored amid the treasurers of his memory are countless recollections of scenes and events most interesting to those of later generations who have profited through the results of his experience. The birth of Thomas S. Williamson took place in Oldham, England, November 15, 1819, where he received mental training in the district schools in boyhood days, and his parents were James and Sarah (Smith) Williamson.

On October 3, 1842, Mr. Williamson was united in marriage with Mary Needham, a daughter of John and Rebecca Needham, and they set sail for the United States on November 10, 1842, and after spending six weeks on their passage across the ocean, they landed at New Orleans, La., whence they journeyed by boat to St. Louis, Mo. From that point they traveled by stage to Jacksonville, Ill., and on January 1, 1843, reached Virginia, Cass County, Ill. During the next March Mr. Williamson returned to Jacksonville, where he was employed for seven years at whatever kind of work he could secure, after which he followed well digging one year. In January, 1851, he moved on a farm which he had bought in Cass County, where he remained until April 24, 1890, when he retired from active pursuits, and established his home in Virginia. After moving to the city, he rented his 375 acre farm, fully improved as the result of his labors for many years. Mrs. Williamson, his faithful companion during this long period of travel and toil, passed away August 28, 1909. Their children are as follows: Sarah, who lives with her father; Elizabeth (Mrs. John Hamilton), a widow, whose home is in Virginia; John, who lives in Cass County; Mary (Mrs. Marion Rose), a widow, living with her father; James, of Rockford, Mich.; and Emma, who is also one of the home group.

In politics Mr. Williamson has been long identified with the Republican party, though never seeking office. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, of which he has been a trustee for man years. Mr. Williamson is one of the most estimable of the surviving characters of a former generation, and a man whose high character and honorable record command the highest respect.