BENJAMIN WILLIAMS. GRANVILLE, WASHINGTON COUNTY, NEW YORK.
The death of Benjamin Williams, Sr., which occurred at his home in this village, Thursday morning, removes a respected and prominent citizen and one of the pioneer Welsh settlers of this town. He had been in failing health for several years with consumption, but was able to be out until eraly last October, since which time he has been confined to the house.Deceased was 68 years od age and was born in Bethesda, Carnarvonshire, North Wales. In 1853 he came to Amercia and located in Middle Granville, where he had since resided. During these years he had been largely interested in the slate industry, at one time being a partner of Jay Gould and interested with him in opening quaries on the Carlton Farm in Granville.
He was also instrumental in developing the red slate rock in this section, and at the time of his death was president of the National Red Slate company of this place.
Not alone in the slate industry of the town was he predominently identified, but also in educational and political affairs. Assisting to establish the Middle Granville union school, he became one of the first members of the board of education, which office he filled for several years. He was overseer of the poor for several terms, and when by special act of the Legislature, passed some years ago, a special Welsh justice was allowed, Mr. Williams was elected justice of the peace and held the office for eighteen years.
He contributed towards building the first Welsh Congregational church of Middle Granville, and was liberal in the support of the scoiety. He had been a member of the lodge of True Ivorites since its organisation and was past master.
In politics he was staunch Republican. Possessed of a genial nature, he had a large circle of friends. It was always a pleasure for him to assist those in need, and he was known as the working man's friend.
In his native home, in early life, he was united in marriage to Margaret Parry, who came with him to this country, and who has been a worthy helpmate. She survives him, together with three sons and three daughters, Benjamin, Gomer and David Williams, who reside here; Margaret wife of Dr. John Roberts of Scranton, Pennsylvania, Mrs. W. C. Shaw of North Pawlet and Miss Rona Williams, who lives in the homestead. Besides his immediate family he is survived by an unusually large circle of relatives.
The funeral was held from the family residence Saturday afternoon at 2 o'clock.