William Arnold

Historical Encyclopedia of Illinois and History of Peoria County, 1902
Transcribed by Diane Minor!

Farmer, born in Windom, Vermont, October 8, 1825 where he was educated. Eben the paternal grandfather and David Brooks the maternal great grandfather were of English descent but born in Rhode Island. Solomon Brooks the grandfather on the maternal side was born near Walpole, Connecticut and married Amelia Fisher who was a native of Grafton, Vermont. William A. Arnold’s parents were William G. and Mary F (Brooks) Arnold both born in Chester, Vermont. They had a family of four sons and three daughters who attained maturity. On February 1, 1844 they arrived in Illinois after an arduous overland trip from the east. They were three months on the way spending some time visiting relatives en route. There was snow on the ground and they suffered considerably from the rigorous weather. The father was killed April 22, 1844 by lightning while standing in the doorway of his home. William Augustus Arnold was but seventeen years old when his father died and the work of the farm depended mainly upon him. With a determination which characterized his after life he struggled along and soon proved his ability by carrying on the business successfully and remained on the farm until his mother was comfortably situated in her home. At the age of twenty he worked on year at $11 per month. He saved $100 with which he bought eighty acres of school land at $2 an acre going in debt for the remaining amount. He married Louisa N. Fisher June 6, 1850. They have three children: Augustus W.; Lydia L., wife of Ernest G Edson and Mrs. Mary C Robinson. Mrs. Arnold was the daughter of Amos and Lydia (Stoddard) Fisher of Woodford County, Illinois where they were among the first settlers coming from Vermont in 1842. After he was married, Mr. Arnold erected a home and improved his farm now containing one hundred and twelve acres and is regarded as one of the most successful farmers in the township. He is a Republican. He belongs to the Baptist Church of which he is deacon.

Pages 657-658