Guinn Williams

Guinn Terrell Williams (April 22, 1871 – January 9, 1948) was an American banker and politician. A Democrat, he served in the Texas State Senate, and is most notable for his service in the U.S. representative from Texas. His son was the actor Guinn "Big Boy" Williams. Early life Born near Beulah, Mississippi, Williams was the son of farmer and Confederate veteran William Washington Williams and Minerva Jane (Thompson) Williams. He moved with his parents to Nocona, Texas in 1876, and they soon relocated to Decatur in Wise County. He attended the public schools of Wise County, and then received his qualification as a school teacher. He taught for several terms, and attended Transylvania College in Lexington, Kentucky. Start of career After his 1890 graduation, Williams became active in ranching and farming, and also pursued a career in banking. After gaining his initial experience as cashier of the State National Bank in Fort Worth, he was an incorporator of Decatur's City National Bank, and served as its vice president. His later ventures included establishing and serving as president of banks in cities and towns including Mineral Wells, Perrin, Bridgeport, and Paradise. A Democrat, Williams served as Wise County Clerk from 1898 to 1902. In 1919, he was elected to the Texas State Senate, and he served from 1920 to 1922.