Transcribed by Mary Ann Kaylor
Page 1187
DOWIS, WILLIAM H. - Sangamon County, Ill., offers an excellent field for farming operations, and amoung the men who have been able to achieve success in this line may be mentioned William H. Dowis, who lives at 2240 East Cedar Street, Springfield. Mr. Dowis was left an orphan when a small child and was obliged to look out for himself. He was ambitious and industrious and made the most of every opportunity for advancement. Mr. Dowis was born in Pike County, Ohio, October 14, 1850, one of the thirteen children of James and Mary (Downing) Dowis, both natives of Ohio, and the former of Pike County. The parents spent their lives in Ohio and were farmers. Only two of their children are now living, William H. and a daughter.
The education of William H. Dowis was acquired in his native State and he worked on his father's farm until the latter's death, learning the full details of farming. In 1875 he located in Sangamon County and engaged in farming near Sherman, first working by the month. In 1880 Mr.Dowis went to Fillmore County, Neb., where he worked on a farm for four years, then returned to Illinois and has since resided in Springfield. He has been very successful in a business way and has shown excellent judgment in the management of his affairs. He is at present extensively engaged in buying an selling stock. He has lived in his present home the past ten years and also owns other property.
Mr. Dowis was married in Springfield, in October, 1882, to Miss Ann Dyer, who was born in Ohio, daughter of Buck and Elizabeth (Babb) Dyer. Her parents came to Illinois about fifty years ago and settled on a farm in Sangamon County, where they lived the remainder of their lives. Mrs. Dowis was one of a family of eight children, of whom but two survive. No children were born to Mr. Dowis and his wife. He is a Republican in politics and a Methodist in religious belief. He is a self-made man in every respect and has learned much in the school of experience. He is well-informed, a pleasing conversationalist, readily makes friends, and in all his dealing with his fellows has held to the highest principles. He is well known in Sangamon County and has the goodwill of his associates and acquaintances. He is an upright and public-spirited citizen and actively interested in public affairs.