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BUNTING, WILLIAM C. - Among those who have retired into private life, after years of arduous toil in which they have proven themselves good business men and faithful workers, is William C. Bunting, one of the English-Americans of Springfield, who combined with his loyalty to his own country, has a love for the one of his adoption. Mr. Bunting was born in Norfolk, England, March 2, 1834, a son of Thomas and Charlotte (Young) Bunting, both born in England, he February 8, 1804, and she October 4, 1813. These two spent their lives in England, being farming people, she living to the advanced age of ninety-six years.
When William C. Bunting was but twelve years old he was apprenticed to learn the butchering and meat cutting trade, and worked at it, attending school whenever opportunity offered. In 1870, he came to America, landing first in New York City, from whence he came to Chicago, and after a short time left that city for Springfield. Following his arrival here, he worked on a farm in the vicinity of Springfield for six years, and then began farming for himself. He became very successful, continuing his farming operations for twenty years, when he returned to Springfield and worked in the rolling mills until 1900. He then felt that he deserved a rest, so retired. He is a member of the Episcopal Church. In politics, he is a Republican.
In 1862, while still residing in Norfolk, England, he was united in marriage with Francis S. Darns, born in Norfolk, England, March 1, 1839. Her father died in England, but her mother came to America in 1871, and died in Springfield. The following family was born to Mr. and Mrs. Bunting: Edmund T., of St. Louis; William S., who married Nellie Jane Woods, issue, - five children, two of them are living; Jessie C. and Francis I.; John W. of Springfield; and Dorcas, wife of Benjamin Hammond, residing in Bloomington, issue - Edmund, Alflet and Fleda Hammond. Mr. Bunting owns the home in which he resides, at No. 2038 North Eleventh Street, as well as other city realty, being comfortably well-to-do. His success in life, has been of steady growth, and the result of hard work and thrifty saving. He is universally respected by his associates, who know and appreciate his many excellent qualities.