Background, page design, and transcription format © 2003 - 2009 Leona L. Gustafson


Return to Main Page

REV. WILLIAM T. SNOW
Between page 428 & 429

(Portraits)

was born at Providence, Rhode Island, January 1, 1803. He was the first child of John Snow and Mary Thurston. When quiet a youth, his father moved with his family from Providence to Worthington, Ohio. William T., after acquiring a liberal education, returned to the east, and kept the books of a large cotton factory, owned by a relative, where he applied himself with his accustomed diligence and success to acquire a knowledge of the art of manufacturing textile fabrics. Returning to his home in Worthington, his mind and soul became deeply interested in religion. He was converted, and soon after was ordained a minister in the Methodist Episcopal church. He continued to travel and labor with great success as an itinerant minister in Ohio, Western Virginia, and Michigan, for almost twelve years. During this time he had married Elicta [Sic.], daughter of Captain Gad Chamberlin, of Rome Michigan. Mr. Snow's delicate constitution gave way under his great exertions and exposures, so that in 1836 he retired to his farm in Oakland county, Michigan. Here his active mind was at work, and he was soon a leading citizen of the county, holding important positions, and representing his county in the legislature. In 1855 he removed with his family to Worthington, Ohio, for the purpose of educating his daughters. His untiring industry would not permit him to remain idle. He soon after engaged in business in Worthington, opening a dry goods and general store, which he continued until September, 1873, when he sold out to B. Crook, and retired from business. Mr. Snow after giving up the circuit, continued to preach, without compensation, as opportunity offered, while he lived; and was particularly useful, while in Michigan, in preaching to and teaching the Indians. It is related that an old Indian chief, who had been converted under Mr. Snow's ministry, removed some eighty miles into the wilderness. He died there, and his last words commanded his wife to go and tell Elder Snow, that it was "a good die." The faithful wife walked the entire distance to deliver the message from the dying chief.

Mr. Snow died January 16, 1875, at his home in Worthington, Ohio, in great peace, sustained by the faith he professed, leaving his aged wife, a model of piety and benevolence, surviving him. He was the father of ten children. The eldest, Mary, wife of Dr. Carr, of Michigan, died many years ago. Five survive their father—Lida H., wife of John G. McGuffey, of Columbus, Ohio; Julia C., wife of Rev. T. S. Stivers, of Pomeroy, Ohio; Nettie J., wife of C. E. Stivers, of Chattanooga, Tennessee; Susan B.; and Jennie D.

The distinguishing features of Mr. Snow's character were a bright, strong, and active mind, industrious and systematic in business; prompt and exact in all business engagements; clear and concise as a pulpit orator, and an exalted trust in providence. He was greatly loved and deeply mourned.



NOTICE: This electronic page may NOT be reproduced in any format for profit or presentation by any organizations or persons. Persons or organizations desiring to use this material, must obtain the written consent of the .