William S. King

Biography

William S. King, born in 1828, made his mark in Minnesota as a newspaperman and public servant. As founder of the St. Paul Pioneer Press and later as a congressman, he championed the state's agricultural interests, worked for rail and harbor improvements, and used his newspaper as a platform for honest discourse.

He also invested in scientific farming, the state fair, and charitable efforts, believing that economic progress and civic virtue could go hand in hand. Minnesotans remembered him for his lively intellect, his devotion to community discussion, and the generosity he showed to both neighbors and newcomers.