Biography: William B. Webster
William B. Webster (April 16, 1809–October 11, 1881) was an early Hampton resident, shoemaker, and local public servant. Born in Bristol, Maine, he came to Hampton in November 1843 at the age of 34. Although trained as a shoemaker, much of the boot and shoe making was done by his hired man, Jacob Weimer, while Webster focused on repair work. He lived on Broad Street on lot 5, block 8, and was remembered as a quiet, good-natured, honest, friendly, and well-liked man. In October 1843, he married Eliza Jane Palmer; the couple had no children. The home on Broad Street (610 2nd Ave) was replaced by the current home in 1935.
Public Service
Webster played a notable role in Hampton’s civic life. He served on the Board of Supervisors for six terms: 1859–1861, 1867, 1869, and 1877. Along with Maniel Smith and William P. Campbell, he also served as an election judge during the April 1876 vote to incorporate the Village of Hampton. He is widely regarded as the village’s first president, although surviving records do not conclusively confirm that title. Early village ordinances do show that he signed documents as President Pro Tem during the first months of village government. In addition, he served on the Hampton School Board in 1867 alongside William McNabney and George R. Wells. Politically, he was a Democrat.
1876 Village Election
1876 was the year Hampton voted to incorporate into a village. The vote was carried by a large majority with only 9 votes against. In the Village of Hampton’s municipal election on May 22, 1876, Webster was elected as one of six village trustees, receiving 86 votes. He finished just behind Samuel Heagy, who led the field with 87 votes, and ahead of R. W. Sikes with 85. Also elected were Henry F. Thomas with 79 votes, Henry Clark with 77 votes, and Fred Gartenrocht with 74 votes. The results showed strong support for the successful slate, while opposing candidates received very few votes. Albert Wells was elected village clerk. The newly elected trustees were expected to meet shortly afterward to organize and begin village business.
Sources:
June 2, 1938, East Moline Herald, “History of Hampton,” by George McNabney.
Ordinances, Vol. 1, 1876-1891, Village of Hampton Archives, Hampton, IL.
May 5, 1876, Moline Review, Page 2
May 22, 1876, The Daily Argus, Page 4
April 28, 1876, Moline Review, Page 3