William Riley Dunham facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
William Riley Dunham
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| Member of the Indiana House of Representatives | |
| In office 1912–1914 |
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| Personal details | |
| Born | February 1, 1856 |
| Died | February 4, 1921 (aged 65) |
| Political party | Democratic |
| Education | Valparaiso Normal School |
| Occupation | Farmer, politician |
William Riley Dunham (born February 1, 1856 – died February 4, 1921) was an important person in Tipton County, Indiana. People knew him well, and a newspaper called him "the man known by name by more men, women and children than any other one man in Tipton County." He served in the Indiana General Assembly, which is like the state's parliament. He represented Hamilton and Tipton counties from 1913 to 1915.
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Who Was William Riley Dunham?
William Riley Dunham was born on February 1, 1856. His parents were Samuel Goodnight Dunham and Eliza Matilda Reese. He went to Valparaiso Normal School to get his education.
His Early Life and Work
After school, William Riley Dunham worked as a farmer. He also raised livestock in a town called Kempton. He was very involved in his community.
Serving His Community
In Kempton, he held several local government jobs. He was a Township Assessor, which meant he helped figure out the value of property for taxes. He also served as a Township Trustee, managing local services. Later, he became a Deputy County Treasurer, helping with county money.
Becoming a Politician
In 1912, William Riley Dunham was elected to the Indiana House of Representatives. This is a part of the state's law-making body. He was a member of the Democratic Party. He served one term, from 1913 to 1915.
His Passing
William Riley Dunham passed away on February 4, 1921.
What Is William Riley Dunham's Legacy?
William Riley Dunham left behind a lasting legacy, especially in Tipton County. His family was well-known for serving the public.
The Dunham House
The large farm house that Dunham built in Tipton County, Indiana still stands today. It is called The Dunham House. He built this house in the 1880s. The land for the house was bought by his grandfather, Jacob Dunham, in 1849. The Dunham family owned the land until 1969.
A Presidential Connection?
There is a local story that William Riley Dunham knew Grover Cleveland, who was a U.S. President. Some even say President Cleveland might have stayed at the Dunham House. William Riley Dunham even named one of his sons Grover Cleveland Dunham. This son later became a doctor and inherited the house.
There is also a mysterious old newspaper article about a secret medical procedure President Cleveland had. This article is kept in the Dunham family's historical files.
Family Impact
The Dunham family, along with families they married into like the Goodnights, Kearneys, and Stroups, made a big difference in their region. They worked in politics, medicine, education, and farming.
A Famous Visitor
In May 2008, Barack Obama visited The Dunham House. He was running for president at the time. He is a descendant of William Riley Dunham's brother. Today, a special historical marker is on the property to remember its history.
