Elihu S. Williams

Who was Elihu S. Williams?

Elihu Stephen Williams was a farmer, lawyer, soldier, and politician who became a member of the United States House of Representatives from Ohio.

Elihu S. Williams was born near New Carlisle, Ohio, the son of Henry Williams and Elizabeth Pettigrew, both of Virginia. Elihu Williams worked on his father's farm until 16 years of age, receiving education in the winter at public schools. Not satisfied, he demanded of his father to be sent regularly to school. His father told him if he wanted a better education than he was getting at home, to get it himself. With $1.50 in his pocket, Elihu Williams started out in life for himself.

He worked among the farmers to earn money to pay his board for a few months, then attended Antioch College to pass examination for a teacher's certificate. He taught school the following winter in Brandt, Ohio. In 1858, he commenced reading law in the office of F. P. Cuppy, Esq., of Dayton, Ohio, continuing to teach in winters until February 1861, when he was admitted to practice of law by the Supreme Court of Ohio.

In October 1861, he enlisted as a private in the 71st Ohio Infantry serving for the duration of the Civil War. He was commissioned first lieutenant February 14, 1862. He was in the Battle of Shiloh. He was promoted to captain February 10, 1863. In fall of 1863, he was detailed to the command of the military post at Carthage, Tennessee and remained there until the close of the war.