William DeFord (April 28, 1807 – February 24, 1898) was an American politician who served as a member of the Ohio House of Representatives, representing Carroll County from 1864 to 1868.
Early life
William DeFord was born on April 28, 1807, in Monroe, Fayette County, Pennsylvania, to Nancy (née Hopwood) and John DeFord. His father was a farmer and owned a hotel in Monroe (previously named Hopwood). His maternal grandfather John Hopwood was the town namesake and was a Baptist who founded churches throughout Fayette County. DeFord studied in common schools and attended Madison College in Pennsylvania for a few months. In 1822, he visited some friends in Wooster, Ohio. As a young man, he helped construct the National Road near Laurel Hill. He also met General Marquis de Lafayette during his return to the United States.
Career
In 1835, DeFord moved to a farm in Washington Township, Carroll County, Ohio.
Prior to the Civil War, DeFord was a Democrat. In 1840, DeFord was a presidential elector for the Democratic ticket. After the start of the war, he became a Republican. He served as a member of the Ohio House of Representatives, representing Carroll County from 1864 to 1868. He also served as justice of the peace.
DeFord worked as a farmer for over 57 years.
Personal life
DeFord married Mary Williams, daughter of George Williams, of New Jersey in April 1838. They had two sons, Nathan and John. She died in 1875. DeFord was a member of the Methodist Protestant Church.
DeFord died on February 24, 1898, at his son's home near East Rochester, Ohio.