W.J. ADAM, Secretary of the Adam Manufacturing Co., Joliet; is a native of Joliet; he was born Sept. 18, 1851. He is a son of William ADAM, who came to Joliet in 1849, and has been a prominent business man here ever since. Mr. ADAM was educated in the public schools of Joliet, and at Jennings Seminary in Aurora, Ill., graduating from the scientific department of the latter institution in 1870; the following year, he entered the employ of Adam & Wilcox, and two years later became a member and the managing partner of the firm of William Adam & Co. While in the milling business, he served two years as Vice President of the Illinois State Millers’ Association, and was also a Delegate to the National Millers’ Association three successive years. He was a member of the first Board of Directors of the National Millers’ Insurance Company. On Jan. 22, 1877, their mill burned down, and soon afterward the Adam Manufacturing Company was formed, and Mr. Adam became Secretary and Business Manager, which position he now holds.
Source: History of Will County, Illinois; Chicago: Wm LeBaron Jr & Co, 186 Dearborn Street, 1878.