William H. Best
William H. Best, jeweler; was born in Dayton Sept. 15, 1845. He is the son of Henry Best, deceased, whose biography appears in this work. He attended the common schools until he was 15 years old, when he studied designing and engraving under Emil Schmidt, of Dayton, for two years. He then attended the Miami Commercial College, of Dayton, for two years, after which he entered the store of his father, where he remained until 1875, when he commenced business for himmself on the corner of Main and Third streets. On the 27th of May, 1869, he married Miss Eva Williams, daughter of J. Insco Williams, who is famous throughout the United States as an artist. The issue of this mariage was two daughters and one son. The father, our subject, is neither a politician, member of church or office-seeker. He has a large and successful business, to which he gives his whole and undivided attention, feeling that he has no time to dabble in outside matters. The large and profitable patronage he enjoys is sufficient proof of his desire and ability to please all to whom his goods are shown.
From History of Montgomery County, Ohio, W. H. Beers & Co., Chicago, 1882