My Genealogy Hound

SAMUEL G. WILLIAMS, judge of the police court, was born June 26, 1828, in Bedford county, Virginia. His father, Edward D., was a native of Virginia, as well as his mother, whose maiden name was Martha E. Jones. Colonel Williams was educated at Hollins Institute by his own efforts, after which he studied law with W. R. Stoples, present judge of the Supreme Court of Virginia. Commenced practice at Floyd Court House, Virginia, in 1854. In June, 1858, he came to Missouri, where the town of Rolla now stands, being among the first settlers of this town, and helped in its organization. Here he remained until 1877, when he came to Carthage. He was elected a member of the Missouri legislature in 1860, and also a member of the celebrated Jackson legislature. At the breaking out of the war he was tendered a commission as colonel in the Missouri State Guards, under General Price, but before going into service was captured by Colonel Gratz Brown, and subsequently paroled. He removed later to Rolla, and began the practice of law in the military courts during the war. In 1870 he was appointed curator of the State University, and it was while holding this position that he became one of the chief founders of the school of mines at Rolla, remaining on the board for six years. Col. Williams is one of the leading lawyers of southwest Missouri, and was one of the prominent members of every Democratic convention for many years, besides taking an active part in politics and public affairs generally. He was a supporter of Frank Pierce in 1852, and has never scratched the Democratic ticket. In 1878 he canvassed the county in behalf of the Democratic platform, which was successful. He was appointed attorney for the collection of revenue, serving during the administration. He was married in December, 1855, to Mary L. Crenshaw, of Lynchburg, Virginia, His father and mother celebrated their golden wedding at Rolla, Missouri, in 1877, and he and his wife their silver wedding in 1880. Col. Williams is among the most eminent men of southwest Missouri. He is the judge of the police court.