Gaston, Joseph. "The Centennial History of Oregon, 1811-1912." Vol. 2. Chicago, Clarke Publishing Co., 1912. p. 423. WILLIAM HILLIS Among the respected native sons of Oregon whose faith in this state of opportunity never falters and who does not care to migrate elsewhere is William Hillis, a native of Jackson county. He cultivates a portion of the old family homestead and his farming, which is according to modern ideas, is along diversified lines. He was born September 7, 1868, the son of W. P. and Margaret (Stone) Hillis. The father came by the water route to California and later came to Oregon, where he took up a quarter section of land. William Hillis was reared on the family homestead and after receiving a good common-school education, at the age of twenty-one years left home. During the winter season he followed the business of mining, returning to the homestead in the summer and occupying himself with farm work. He now owns a part of the old home place, which was divided among the heirs, his portion of the estate being one hundred and eighteen acres. He does a good business, handles his land with wisdom and energy, making a specialty of raising hay and grain. He has placed good improvements upon his farm and in addition to the grain which he produces, pays considerable attention to the raising of cattle and horses. On November 20, 1900, Mr. Hillis was united in marriage to Miss Emma Brooks, who died on the 9th of February, 1903. In 1909 Mr. Hillis was again married, his second union being with Miss Emma Neathamer, by whom he has two children, Edward S. and William L. Mr. Hillis supports the principles and practices of the democratic party and although he has never been an office seeker, he takes a lively interest in educational matters and has been clerk of his school district for one term. Being a public-spirited as well as a genial man, Mr. Hillis is well acquainted in the county where he was born and he has an excellent standing in the community. During the period of his life in Jackson county he has witnesses the marvelous growth and development of Oregon and he is one of the firm believers in the greatness, both present and future, of this state of opportunity. Editor's note: I am researching the Hillis family and am willing to share what I have. Please contact Jenny at jtenlen - at - drizzle.com ******************* Submitted to the Oregon Bios. Project in January 2007 by Diana Smith. Submitter has no additional information about the person(s) or family mentioned above.