John Williams

Born in Clara, Lemanaghan (Offaly) (5966), the 2nd of 8 children.

Migrated to America with his brother James ~1845, landing at Ellis Island. Searching immigration records at https://heritage.statueofliberty.org/ yields no record of a John and James traveling on the same ship with both being adults and James being older.

I have only vague recollections of him as a large man, better than six feet tall and weighing around 220 pounds.  He may have been heavier in his prime.  While he lived in Canada one leg was injured while he was felling a tree and this ailment followed him thru life and at times interrupted his daily pursuits.  He played the bag-pipes and flute for recreation and amusement.

A stained glass window in St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Clinton, Iowa, USA was dedicated to his father by his son Wm. T. Williams many years ago.  It is located high above the altar and to one’s right upon entering the church.  His axiom during life I am told is incorporated below.  I trust it will prove a beacon and guide for present and future generations.  “LAY UP THE TREASURE NEITHER MOTH CAN EAT NOR RUST DECAY, THE TREASURE OF A GOOD NAME.”