WILLIAM H. GIFT is a farmer of much substance, living in Oneco Township. He acquired nearly all of his earthly possessions by dint of hard labor and rigid economy. He was born in Rock Grove Township, this county, Dec. 11, 1844, and lived with his parents until he was twenty-four years old, when he married Miss Catharine E. Miller, daughter of John Miller. In his early days be attended the district school, where he acquired a rudimentary education, meanwhile working on the farm. He is the eldest son of Michael Gift, whose sketch is given elsewhere in this work.

After marriage, our subject, not having the means to purchase land, rented from his father, and has worked the latter’s laud for sixteen years. His father, seeing the thrifty qualities and noting the enterprise of his son, has drawn the papers whereby property will be secured to him upon his father’s death. Although not engaging in politics, Mr. Gift is a Republican, and belongs to the Brethren or German Baptist Church. The wife of Mr. Gift was born Jan. 31, 1850, and is the mother of two children: John F., born Oct. 31, 1869, and Etta May, April 27, 1880, John F. resides at home. The place upon which Mr. Gift resides is a handsome one, the house being one of the finest in this part of Stephenson County. There is also a large and roomy barn on the place.

History of Stephenson County 1888 Portrait & Biographical Pg 473