“The History of Jefferson County, Wisconsin”, published: Chicago:  
Western Historical Company.   1879.


WILLIAM F. BROWN,  miller and engineer, Palmyra; born in Fifeshire, 
Scotland, Nov. 16, 1819; the early part of his life was spent in Scotland, 
where he served a five-years apprenticeship as engineer in Glasgow; he 
was engineer of the ship Monarch at the age of 17; he came to America 
in 1844, locating on Rock Prairie, Wis.; from there he went to Manistee, 
Mich., and put in the machinery for the first steam saw-mill in the city; 
returning to Milwaukee, he was employed by Goodrich & Eastman to 
reconstruct their engine in the flouring-mill on Walker’s Point; his 
success here established his reputation as a practical engineer.  He 
remained in the employ of this farm thirteen years, and was promoted to 
head miller in Ottawa, Ill.; with his savings bought an engine and a third 
interest in the mill at Oak Creek, Wis.; after five years, he purchased the 
flouring-mill at Palmyra, and paid for it in two years; by application to 
his business he won the confidence of the surrounding community, and, 
after eight years, sold out his mill and settled in the village to enjoy his 
competence.  He married Miss Philadelphia Dibley, of Milwaukee, Dec. 
24, 1848; they have seven children – Agnes T., Mary A., Emma D., 
Anna S., William J., Florence N. and Robert W.  The family attend the 
Congregational Church.  Mr. Brown is a Republican.


Submitted by:  Linda Pingel  (LPingel@worldnet.att.net)