WM. E. HAWKS.

WM. E. HAWKS.

Among the prominent water works men in the country, there are none who take a more lively interest in any action which tends to increase the usefulness of tin’s important branch of business than the subject of this sketch, William E. Hawks, of Bennington, Vt,, who was born in that town Jan. 27, 1832. Leaving bis native town in 1840, the young man entered the mercantile business in New York city, first as clerk and afterwards for himself, where his efforts were rewarded with abundant success.

Of Mr. Hawks’ business career much might be said, but it is only regarding his connection with water works that we care to speak at this time. About 1S74 he became largely interested in the Marseilles Land and Water Power company in La Salle county, Illinois. In 1884, Mr. Hawks practically became sole owner of the property and continued to manage it until 1891, when he sold out to others. A portion of this time he was vice-president of the Joliet Waterworks company, of Joliet, Ill., and was actively engaged in the management of the company’s affairs until the plant was purchased by the city in 1888. In 1885 he became interested in the Leadville, Col.; Water company, and was soon elected president and treasurer. The annual receipts at that time were about $17,000, and the plant was in a very poor condition. The receipts arc now upwards of $50,000 per annum and the plant is in first class condition.