My Genealogy Hound

Robert L. Williams, sheriff and collector, at Hot Springs, Ark., is a native of Hopkins County, Ky., born January 22, 1850, and is a son of Roland P. Williams, who was a successful tiller of the soil all his life. The father married Margaret Gilliland, who, as well as himself, was a native of Kentucky, and in 1859 they moved to Missouri. In 1863 they refugeed to the Lone Star State, but afterward, in 1867, emigrated to Arkansas, locating in Polk County, where the mother died. The father is now living with his son, Robert L. They reared a large family of children, six of whom are living. Robert L. Williams early in life became familiar with the details of farm life, and received his education in the common schools. In 1878 he removed to Hot Springs, where he was engaged in keeping a wagon-yard for about a year. After this he clerked in a grocery store for three years, and then entered with a partner into the same business, also keeping a wholesale and retail feed store, which he has since continued. In 1886 he was elected to his present position, and so well did he discharge his official duties, that he was reelected in 1889. He is an able and efficient officer, and commands the respect of all for his faithfulness. Mr. Williams was married February 11, 1872, to Miss Martha E. Allen, a native of Polk County, Ark., and the fruits of this union are four interesting children: Bennie A., John, Florence and Josie. Mr. Williams owns considerable real estate in Texas, besides extensive property interests in Hot Springs.