William J. McKnight, farmer; P. O. Piqua; was born in Shelby Co., Ohio, Aug. 18, 1837, is a son of Joseph and Mary McKnight; he was brought up on a farm and has always followed that business. On the 12th of October, 1858, he married Elizabeth A. Ball; she died May 6, 1868, leaving three children - Joseph T. (born April 5, 1860), W. R. (born March 23, 1862), and E. E. (born March 21, 1864); the two older are attending school at Ada, Harding County, Ohio; at the death of his wife, Mr. McKnight's sister stayed with him and kept house, taking care of the children until Jan. 4, 1871. He was again united in marriage with Mary E. Morrow, daughter of James and Mary Morrow, residents of Shelby County, who was born Nov. 12, 1838; the fruits of this union are three children - Ida L. (born July 6, 1873), Araminta (born Feb. 25, 1875), Mary L. (born July 25, 1877). Mr. and Mrs. McKnight and the two sons are worthy members of the United Presbyterian Church.