William Corning, as a worthy representative of the pioneer element of Northern Illinois, is regarded with that peculiar veneration and respect accorded those who braved the dangers and hardships of an untried region, in order to provide homes for themselves and their children. He also assisted in the colonization of a section of country which he with others believed would in time yield to the hand of the husbandman rich fruits for his toil, and where there was abundant room for the exercise of a worthy ambition, and the establishment of something better than was known on the rugged coast of New England. There it was that our subject first opened his eyes to the light of day, his birth taking place in Londonderry, Rockingham Co., N. H., June 25, 1818.

The Corning family came over from England during the early settlement of this country, locating at Beverly, Mass., in 1641. There it is believed the father of our subject, Nathan Corning, was born, and after reaching manhood, joined the American army, mostly composed of the Colonists struggling for their liberty. After this was assured and his services were no longer needed, he went into New Hampshire and purchased a tract of land near Londonderry, at that time a mere hamlet. Upon this land was a stream which furnished fine water-power, of which the elder Corning was not slow to avail himself, for he soon had a sawmill and gristmill erected, and operated these in connection with his farm successfully for a number of years. His property included quite a tract of fine land which he cleared and improved, and upon which he remained till his death, which took place in the fall of 1842. He married early in life, Miss Hannah Boise, who was born in New Hampshire, and descended from Scotch-Irish ancestry. This lady survived her husband but three short years, and like him, died upon the old homestead near Londonderry. The household circle included eleven children, ten of whom attained to mature years.

William, of our sketch, who was the tenth in order of birth, attended school as opportunity afforded, and like his brothers and sisters, was trained to habits of industry and economy. He started out early in life to do for himself, engaging on a farm when sixteen years of age, and receiving for his services the munificent wages of $5 per month. A brief season thus spent, however, satisfied him, and going to Merrimac, he engaged for a time in teaming and afterward drove the stage from Londonderry and Lowell, to Andover, Mass. Afterward he changed his route from Lowell to Haverhill, and became joint proprietor of the "rolling stock." He was similarly engaged until in the spring of 1842, when the reports from the West were leading many young and enterprising men to attempt the long journey in the hope of something better in the future. He started by rail and with the assistance of the canal and lakes finally reached Chicago, whence he proceeded to Galena by stage, making the entire journey from his childhood's home in twenty-one days, which at that time was considered a short trip. He resumed his old occupation of teaming for a time, and then engaged to drive the stage from Galena to Freeport and other towns. By plain living and close economy, he managed to save money sufficient to buy a farm in West Point Township, this county, where he followed agriculture in summer, and drove the stage the balance of the year, until 1853. He then abandoned the road and confined himself to his farm until 1868, when he purchased the place which he now owns in Lena. Besides his handsome town property, he has his fine farm of 215 acres which is operated by a tenant.

The marriage of William Corning and Miss Mary B. Green was celebrated at Lowell, Mass., the officiating minister being Rev. Dr. Miner of that city, and the date thereof Nov. 7, 1842. The wife of our subject was born in Newburyport, Mass., March 1, 1821, and is the daughter of Robert and Mary (Sargeant) Green, natives of England and Massachusetts. The father died in 1821, while the mother is still living in Haverhill, Mass. Of this union there were born five children, two now living, viz., Elizabeth P. and Adrianna. The family are Presbyterians, and in their social relations enjoy the friendship of the refined people about them. Their home in the city is pleasantly located, and in all respects is indicative of refined tastes and ample means. Mr. C. has served as Tax Collector, Constable and School Director, and was Highway Commissioner a number of years. For eight years the Government awarded him the contract for carrying the mail from Lena to Galena and Mt. Carroll. In politics he is an uncompromising Republican. He was formerly a banker in Lena, but is now banking in Republic, Kan.

Contributed by Carol Parrish from Portrait and Biographical Album of Stephenson County, Ill. (1888), p. 693