From Memorial and Genealogical Record of Dodge and Jefferson Counties, Wisconsin, publ. 
1894 - Page 205-206
 
WILLIAM R. THOMAS.  This thrifty farmer was born on the farm of 160 acres which he now owns 
and operates in Dodge County, Wis., August 7, 1850.  His parents, John and Ellen (ROLLANDS) 
THOMAS were both born in Wales, but they were married in Dodge County, Wis., having come 
thither from their native land after they had reached maturity.  Mr. THOMAS came thither about 
1844, and bought and entered land from the Government, which he developed into a fine farm 
prior to his death, which occurred in 1867.  His widow survived him twenty years.  William R. 
THOMS was the eldest of five children born to his parents and his entire life has been spent on 
the old homestead, for he made his home with his father until his death, then took charge of the 
place for his mother, and after a time bought out the other heirs to the property and became sole 
proprietor.  He was given the advantages of the common schools during his youth, and wisely 
made good use of his opportunities and with much varied reading has become an exceptionally 
well-informed man.  When a young man he purchased a horse-power thresher, and during the 
season has followed this occupation more or less ever since.  He now owns and operates a fine 
new steam thresher and last season threshed out about 50,000 bushels of grain.  In his political 
views Mr. THOMAS has always been warmly Republican in national issues, but in local elections 
is independent.  He was elected and served four consecutive years as township assessor, has 
been a member of the township board of supervisors and also a member of the county board for 
six consecutive years, and made a very efficient officer  He was married in Dodge County 
February 15, 1893, to Miss Anna KOHLS, of German descent, and they have one child, Ella 
May.  Mr. THOMAS is a member of the A.F. & A.M., Beaver Dam Lodge, and has ever been an 
active and public-spirited citizen, interested in the welfare of his section and ready to espouse all 
worthy enterprises.
 
Submitted by Carol