William J. Lewis. One of the important industries of Covington is that represented by the Covington Woolen Mills, the proprietor of which, William J. Lewis, is one of the leading and progressive business men of his city. Mr. Lewis was born at Covington, February 3, 1872, a son of Alfred J. and Barbara (Ruppert) Lewis. Alfred J. Lewis came to Covington from Richmond, Ind., in 1865 and at that time bought the woolen mills from Henry Finfrock. He made a success of his venture and built up a firmly-established and growing business, but at that time died, when still in the prime of life, in 1889, leaving the business to his sons, William J., and Charles Edward. The latter is now a resident of Dayton, where he is engaged in business. William J. Lewis was granted the advantages of a public school education, and was only seventeen years of age when his father died, his younger brother being fifteen. Upon the youthful and inexperienced shoulders of William J. Lewis was placed the burden of responsibility for the continuation of the milling business. While the youth had little training, he was possessed of ambition, determination and a goodly share of common sense and natural ability, and these he used to the fullest extent in carrying on the business. That he has succeeded is shown in the fact that today this is the leading business industry of Covington, made so by the able judgment and sterling management of its proprietor. A complete history of this enterprise will be found in the industrial section of this work, but it may be noted here that during the World war period the business was conducted one hundred percent on government work, making blankets for the United States Army. Mr. Lewis has a number of civic and social connections, as well as those of a business character, and is highly esteemed and respected in business circles, while his public spirit as a citizen has never been questioned. He married Susan, daughter of Joseph Grove, of Covington, and they are the parents of three children: Alfred J. and Ruth Marcel, who are attending the Covington High School, and James W., a student in the graded school.