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Permanent LinkRepresentative William M. McFarland View All Years
WILLIAM M. MCFARLAND was born in Posey county, Ind., April 1, 1848; he died in St. Paul, Minn., July 15, 1905. He was graduated at the Wesleyan University, at Mt. Pleasant, Iowa, in 1873. Shortly afterward he started The Brooklyn (Iowa) Chronicle, with which he continued until 1884, when he removed to Estherville, Emmet county, where he engaged in the publication of The Vindicator. He was elected to represent his county in the house of representatives of the 22d general assembly, and re-elected two years later. In 1890 he was elected Secretary of State. He held this office three terms. Mr. McFarland was a man of decided ability, and in whatever public position he occupied created a most favorable impression. He was able and versatile as an editor, active and influential in the legislature, growing constantly in the public esteem until he reached the second office in the gift of the people of the State. At one time it seemed not improbable that he would easily reach the governorship. He possessed many elements of popularity. He was a model of hearty cordiality in his address, a graceful and pleasing writer, and a ready and eloquent speaker. To these qualities he added the wide and versatile information which distinguishes the born journalist. That he was three times elected to the high office of Secretary of State speaks volumes regarding the estimate placed upon his character and ability. Retiring from this last position, he settled in Indianola, where he resided at the time of his death. The last few years of his life had been devoted to editorial work, or to traveling in various business interests. He died very suddenly in St. Paul as he was entering a private car bound for Des Moines. His death was attributed to heart failure.