William R. Somers

Among the numerous worthy pioneers who came to this county when the advent of civilization was scarcely visible, and who endured the privations, trials, and difficulties of that early day, is the father of the subject of this biography, William Somers. He is a native of England, and his good wife, Harriet (Hamlin) Somers, a native of Canada. They were united in marriage in Canada, where they settled for a time, when they emigrated to this state and county, settling in the township of Lynnville in 1847, where they still reside. The father was at one time the proprietor of 600 acres of land, but has disposed of the major portion of his acreage until at present his landed interests comprise only 200 acres. To the union of this couple a family of eight children were born. Of these, Elizabeth is deceased, the remaining children being Ann, Tamson, Seward R., Frank G., James M., William R. and Cornelius E. Mrs. Somers, mother of our subject, is a member of the Methodist Church and in politics her husband is a believer in and a supporter of the principles of the Republican Party.

William R. Somers was born in Lynnville Township, June 8, 1859. He received the advantages afforded by the common schools, and supplemented his education byu attending the high school at Rochelle. Subsequently he was engaged in teaching in Lynnville Township and followed that vocation for six years. His life has been passed in Lynnville Township, where he has been engaged in agricultural pursuits, and is the owner of 160 acres of tillable land on section 3, and there, by energetic labor as a farner, he is meeting with that success which perseverance, combined with good judgement, is sure to bring.

Politically, he votes with the Republican Party and is an active worker for the success of the same, never failing to cast his vote when opportunity is afforded. He has acted in the capacity of Township Collector for a period of one year.

Portrait and Biographical Album of Ogle Co., IL, Chapman Bros., Chicago, IL, 1886, Page 195

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