WILSON, THOMAS WITCHER, National President of the Royal Benefit Society, whose main office is located at 704 Ferguson Building, Springfield, Ill., is a prominent citizen of that city and has taken an active part in local affairs for several years. Mr. Wilson is a native of Sangamon County, born January 7, 1856, a son of John and Mary (Cooper) Wilson. The great-great-grandfather of Thomas W. Wilson served in the Colonial Wars and was killed during his service, the great-grandfather served in the Revolution, and the grandfather served under General Jackson in the War of 1812.

Thomas W. Wilson received his education in the common and high schools of Springfield, and after leaving school engaged in various clerical work. For some time he has been connected with the Royal Benefit Society, and was chosen for his responsible office on account of his excellent business training and an unquestioned reliability and uprightness. He has given the affairs of the organization able and efficient administration and the society is in a prosperous condition. He served some time as Chairman of the board of Supervisors and four years as Recorder of Sangamon County. In his public service he has shown marked ability and has given satisfaction in every office he has held.

Mr. Wilson was married, in Springfield, in September, 1880, to Miss Mary W. Billington, and they became parents of four children, namely: William L., John L.; Mrs. Bess m. Smith, and Dorothy M. All except Mrs. Smith are unmarried and live at home. Mr. Wilson is a member of the Episcopal Church and fraternally is a member of the Odd Fellows, the Knight of Pythias, the Elks and the Masonic Order, having taken thirty-two degrees in the last named order, including that of Knight Templar. He also belongs to the Sangamon and Country Clubs and to the Chamber of Commerce. He is of a social, friendly disposition and is well known in business and fraternal circles of Springfield, where he is popular and has won many warm friends.