William received his education in his birthplace and in Clayton. At the age of seventeen he began to learn the blacksmith's trade in Montgomery county, and at the end of three years began to work as a journeyman. After three years more he
engaged in business for himself in Clayton village, and for twenty years practiced his trade with success. In 1856 he bought the farm which is now his home, three miles from Clayton, on the road to Depauville, and in 1863 took up his abode
there. Here he has resided ever since on a beautiful estate of 358 acres, one of the largest farms in the township. It is maintained in a highly flourishing condition, the owner devoting the land to general farming and dairying, and keeping
forty-five cows. He is one of the directors of the National Exchange Bank of Clayton. As a citizen he has received from his neighbors many tokens of deserved popularity, having served six years as inspector of elections and nine years as
assessor. To the latter office he was re-elected three times, and for six years he held the position of chairman of the board. He has also filled the office of supervisor two terms; for one year he was overseer of the poor; was for several
years collector, and is now trustee of the school district. He also received the appointment of state railroad commissioner, an office which he held for eight years. He is a trustee of the Methodist Episcopal church of Clayton, of which for
the past thirty years he and his wife have been members. He was treasurer of the Grange. in politics he is a Democrat.
Obituary from "On the St. Lawrence": Mrs. William Lingenfelter was born in Whitby, England, in 1828, and died at her home in Clayton, Dec. 29, 1905.
At the age of five years she was brought to this country and never went back to visit her native land. In the year 1846, she was united in marriage to William Lingenfelter of which union there were 12 children, nine of which are now
living. During her sickness she was nursed by her own children, which was her special wish. Every attention that money could purchase and love could invent were hers to the last.With a patience that was beautiful to behold and heroism that excited admiration she endured her sickness until quietly she fell asleep in death.
Mrs. Lingenfelter was converted at the age of 12 years and immediately joined the Methodist Episcopal church, which relation remained unbroken until her translation to the Church Triumphant.
The vigor of her personality was noticable in her religious life as much as her industry and economy were features of her business life.
No one will ever know how many Bibles she gave away to those who did not have one. She possessed a holy mania for giving away Bibles. The future will tell some blessed stories of the fruit of such splendid Christian work.
Her husband made her his confident and adviser; her children almost worshiped her; her wide acquaintance loved to be in her company.
Her funeral was a large one conducted by her pastor assisted by Rev. George Merritt, of Depauville.
1 CMNT died at age 11
1 CMNT died in infancy
Lewis came to Clayton in 1831 as a pioneer, and settled on a tract of land four miles from the village.