>From The Portrait and Biographical Album of Rock County, Wis., publ, 1889 - page 945, 946 HON. WILLIAM M. NYE, who resides on section 28, Beloit Township, is one of the representative citizens of Rock County, who receives the respect of all who know him. He was born in Herkimer County, N.Y., April 28, 1829, and is a son of Clark and Abigail (MORGAN) NYE, (his father's sketch appearing on another page of this work). His early life was passed in his native county, in the uneventful routine of farm life. He assisted his father in the labors of the farm, and attended the common schools for one term. Thus we see that his advantages for securing an education were indeed limited, but he improved his every opportunity and used his leisure time for securing a knowledge of those studies which are essential to every business. He eagerly devoured the books which he could obtain, and is still a great reader, being well informed on all the leading issues of the day. When seventeen years of age, William left his native county and came with the family to Wisconsin. They resided in Beloit for a period of six years, during which time he attended a select school for two terms. He engaged in teaming for two years, and in 1848, in connection with his brother Ira, he began the improvement of a farm. Purchasing an ox team, they turned the first furrow on many acres of wild prairie land, which previous to this time was still in its primitive condition. For four season our subject engaged in this occupation, when, in 1852, the family removed to the old homestead in Beloit Township, and he aided in the cultivation of the farm. The years passed merrily to the family who there took up their abode until the death angel visited their home, taking from it the loved wife and mother. In 1857, Mr. NYE left the parental roof and engaged in farming for himself. The first land which he owned was a claim of 160 acres, located on Crow River, in Minnesota. This he cultivated until the fall of 1858, when he returned to Rock County, and in 1859 purchased 120 acres of land on section 28, Beloit Township, upon which he has now resided for thirty years. It was then raw land, but by care and cultivation he has developed it into one of the finest farms in the township. With his own hand he planted and tended the now towering trees which throw their welcome shade around the home, and, in 1869, he erected the large two-story frame residence which was presided over by one of Rock County's most noble women, whose hospitality and kindness was extended to all. On March 10, 1860, he wedded Miss Fannie MILLER, a native of Massachusetts, and a daughter of Thomas and Salina (McGEE) MILLER, who came to Rock County about 1855, and are still residents of Beloit. Two children! were born to them, Nellie and Lou. Twenty-two years of happy wedded life had passed when Mrs. NYE was called to her final home, her death occurring Sept. 25, 1882. She was an untiring worker in the Baptist Church, an earnest, sincere Christian lady, who was beloved by all for her many excellencies of character. For several years prior to her death she was an invalid, but she bore her affliction with patience and true Christian fortitude. Mr. NYE is still engaged in general farming, and his farm, which now comprises 162 acres is under a high state of cultivation. Politically, he is a faithful adherent of the Republican party, and has borne a prominent part in local political affairs. For thirteen terms he served his township as assessor, and, in 1887, was nominated by his party as their Representative to the General Assembly and triumphantly elected. His course as a member of the Legislature has met with the approbation of all concerned. To each question that comes up before the House he gives his careful consideration, casting his ballot for the best interests of the people. He is a man of sound judgment, a logical thinker, careful in his business transitions, and is held in the highest regard by all. As a citizen he is loyal and true, and his sketch deserves an honored place in the history of Rock County.