WILLIAM J. STONE was born in Madison County, Kentucky on May 7, 1848. His education was attained at the University of Missouri, where he graduated in 1867. He studied law, and was admitted to the bar in 1869. Stone established his legal career, serving as the city attorney of Columbia, Missouri in 1870. He also served as the Vernon County prosecuting attorney from 1872 to 1874. Stone first entered politics as a presidential elector on the 1876 Democratic ticket. He also served as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives from 1885 to 1891. He next secured the Democratic gubernatorial nomination, and was elected governor on November 8, 1892. He was sworn into office on January 9, 1893. During his tenure, the state’s industry and declining economy were dealt with. After completing his term, Stone left office on January 11, 1897. He continued to stay politically active, serving as a member and vice chairman of the Democratic National Committee, a position he held from 1896 to 1904. He also served as a member of the U.S. Senate from 1903 to 1918. Governor William J. Stone passed away on April 14, 1918, and was buried in the Deepwood Cemetery in Nevada, Missouri.