William R. McConnell

    William R. McConnell, real estate agent and collector, Aurora, was born in Belfast, Ireland, September 16, 1821, where he received a common school education. His parents, James and Agnes (Kennedy) McConnell were natives of Ireland, died years ago. Our subject came to America in 1844, and located in Lawrenceburgh, with Daniel Majors, where he remained until the spring of 1846, at which time he returned to his fatherland, and was married, May 19, 1846, to Miss Mary Strain, a native of Belfast, who was born June 26, 1822. Eight children were born to the marriage, namely: James R., Robert A., Mary J., Agnes, John, Thomas, Carrie and William E.

    Father McConnell returned to Lawrenceburgh in 1856, with his family, and farmed up to 1865, when they moved to Aurora, and he endeavored to earn a livelihood in an easier manner. For seven years he served the people of Aurora as constable. He ahs also served as assessor, and during 1884-85, as deputy. Himself and wife are members of the Presbyterian Church. They are highly respected citizens.

Source: History of Dearborn and Ohio Counties, Indiana by F.E. Weakley & Co., 1885.