PROF. WILLIAM J. HAWKINS

From the 1887 History of Vernon County, Missouri, p. 706-707:

Prof. William J. Hawkins

(Superintendent of Nevada Public Schools).

   It is but voicing the general sentiment of the community where he has resided for some four years to say that no man has done so much for the educational growth and prosperity of the place, or has given so much of his time, means and personal attention to the upbuilding and development of school facilities in Nevada, as has Prof. Hawkins.  And if his life were to be viewed in the light of the sincere interest he has manifested, it might well be said that he has seemed to labor for his own advancement only that he might become the better able to aid those who have come under his charge.

   William J. Hawkins was born in Hickory county, Mo., December 20, 1851, the son of E. D. Hawkins, originally from Petersburg, Va., who, when a young man, came to Missouri, where he closely applied himself to farming.  His wife was before her marriage Miss Emily Bond, a native of Tennessee, though brought up in this State.  Seven children constituted their family, of whom William T. was the second child and eldest son.  His school opportunities were by no means poor, though his primary education was received principally in the common schools.  At the age of nineteen he engaged in the occupation of teaching, and subsequently supplemented his earlier instruction by attendance at Richland Academy.  Later he became connected with Weaubleau Christian Institute, both as pupil and teacher, remaining so occupied for four years, following which he went to Moniteau county, Mo., in 1877, where he resumed his professional career as teacher.  Three years later, or in 1880, going to Greenfield, Dade county, Mo., he took charge of the Ozark Female Seminary, which school a year afterwards was changed to Ozark College, under the care of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church.  Remaining connected with this well known institution until 1883, Prof. Hawkins then resigned re-election to his former position in order to assume the position which he has since filled as principal of the public schools of Nevada; and his career while serving in this capacity has clearly proven him to be the right man in the right place.  Not only has he established himself firmly in the estimation of all as a thorough instructor, but to a large degree has manifested his utmost fitness for the responsible duties which he is now discharging.  Upon taking charge of the school here he had nine assistants; now he has nineteen.  Within this time also two additional buildings have been erected, and the enrollment of scholars greatly increased until it now reaches 1,200.

   In August, 1879, Prof. Hawkins was married to Miss Lulie Garrett, whose birth occurred in Greenfield, Dade county, Mo.  They have three children:  Clyde, Carl and Maud.

   Prof H. is well known throughout Southwest Missouri, where he is held in great respect.  It is a noticeable fact that into his efforts he has thrown his whole mind and soul, and as a result he has succeeded wonderfully in elevating the standing of education in this city and the surrounding country.  In the interest of his charge he has been an indefatigable and tireless worker.  He has also been active in the work of the Summer Normal Institute, the success of which is largely due to his efforts.  He belongs to the Masonic and A. O. U. W. fraternities.

[Transcribed by Marty Patton]

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