Few names are more familiar in Milton, and few forms are better known on our streets than were the name and form of Robert Williams. For more than 50 years he has filled a prominent place in the business and social life of our village. Not all, however, were so familiar with his early history. He was born in the town of Darien, Genesee county, New York. His father was Robert Williams and his mother was Fanny Saunders Williams, both of sturdy New England stock, Mr. Williams being a direct descendant of Roger Williams of Colonial fame. The family also traces its ancestry far back into the centuries and includes in some of its lines famous historic names, among which are the names of some of the Tudor Kings of England. Mr. Williams was the third child, and the first son in a family of nine children only two of whom, one brother, Mr. Dennis Williams of our village, and one sister, Mrs. Lydia Hunt of California survive him. The father died when Robert was but twelve years of age, which threw many cares and burdens upon his young shoulders. This deprived him of the opportunities for schooling which, at that time, were but meager at the best. But it early accustomed him to those habits of industry and prudence which have been of so much value to him in after years.
In 1848, when 27 years of age, Mr. Williams was most happily married to Miss Martha Dodge, in his native town. Six years later they came to Wisconsin and soon settled in Milton where they have since resided until the death of Mrs. Williams which occurred on the first day of October, two months ago. Soon after locating in Milton, Mr. Williams entered into the mercantile business in which he continued until retiring from active labor when he was succeeded by his son-in-law, Mr. F. C. Dunn, forming the firm of Dunn, Boss & Co. In the pursuit of this business he formed an extensive acquaintance with the people of Milton and vicinity. In this relation he was universally respected and trusted. When Milton College was organized, in 1867, having been one of the staunch supporters of the Academy, he was elected a trustee of the enlarged institution, and remained a member of its board until removed by death. From 1872 to 1875 he was Financial Agent, Mr. Charles H. Greenman being Treasurer. From 1875 to 1883 he was Treasurer, until being succeeded by Prof. Albert Whitford, the present incumbent. But whether an officer or only a private member he was always the same strong, loyal supporter of the College as he was also of everything which would, in his judgment, promote the welfare of society.
To Mr. and Mrs. Williams there came one daughter, the wife of Mr. F. C. Dunn, who has always lived near them, and who, with her husband and children, has taken most tender and efficient care of them in their declining days. In politics, Mr. Williams, was a life-long Republican, with an intelligent comprehension of the principles involved in every question which arose, and with strong convictions of duty and responsibility. In religious belief he was a Seventh-day Baptist, having been a member of the church of that faith in his native town, and of the church of that same faith in Milton.
Funeral services were held at the home of Mr. F. C. Dunn, on Sabbath afternoon, conducted by his pastor, Dr. Platts, assisted by President Daland of the College.
