- WILLIAM BLODGETT is the pioneer settler of Beloit, having
lived in that city longer than any
- other resident. He was born in Columbus, Ind., on the 13th
day of March, 1834, and is a son of S. K. and Mahalia (NORRIS)
BLODGETT, whose sketch appears elsewhere in this work. In 1836
he came with his grandfather and mother to Rock County, being
then but two years of age. At that time not a house marked the
site of the beautiful city of Beloit, but as far as the eye could
see stretched one vast, wild waste of land. In the pioneer school-house
of that early day, which would now cause a smile if it could
be placed alongside the elegant modern buildings of Beloit, William
BLODGETT received his primary education.
- Desiring a better business education, after accumulating
means enough from his own earnings, young
- BLODGETT pursued and completed a full course at D. V. Bell's
commercial College (now Bryant & Stratton's Commercial College)
in Chicago, Ill, receiving his diploma for a thorough knowledge
of commercial law and book-keeping, in the spring of 1856. He
was united in the holy bonds of matrimony in 1856, with Miss
Elizabeth M. HODGE, a native of New York and around the fireside
of this worthy couple once gathered a little band of five children,
but only two are now living; Frank H., who is book-keeper in
his father's office, and Alice M.
- Since 1857 Mr. BLODGETT has been engaged in the milling business,
being a partner in the same
- until 1888, when he became sole proprietor. Socially, he
is a member of the Masonic fraternity, belonging to Morning Star
Lodge No. 10, A.F. & A.M., Beloit Chapter No. 9, R.A.M.,
and Beloit Commandery No. 6, K.T. His is also a member of the
Myrtle Lodge No. 10, L.O.O.F. In political sentiment he is a
Democrat. He has been honored with several offices of trust,
including that of Alderman of the Fourth Ward, in which capacity
he has served for three terms. Mr. BLODGETT is a man of more
than ordinary ability, and in his business relations stands high
in the community. He is genial, possess a kindly disposition,
and makes friends wherever he goes. In all the numerous official
and responsible positions he has held, he has ever proved himself
capable and upright, and in every way trustworthy, while in the
city of Beloit no man stands higher in public esteem than does
William BLODGETT.
-
- Taken from "The Portrait and Biographical Album of
Rock County, Wis." (c)1889, pp. 766.
-
- Courtesy of Carol
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