William H. Johnson is pictured. (Photo courtesy of the Ishpeming Historical Society)

ISHPEMING — As the general superintendent of one of the largest mining companies in Ishpeming, the Oliver Mining Company, William H. Johnston was well known at one time, but like so many names from the past, has been forgotten.

Johnston was born in Herkimer County, New York on Dec. 1, 1847, but moved to Appleton, Wisconsin, at an early age. His parents were among the first residents of Appleton and his father erected the first house in Appleton.

After graduating from Lawrence University, he assisted his father, who was a lumber merchant. In 1876 he moved to Ishpeming to take the position of assistant bookkeeper and timekeeper for the Lake Superior Iron Company.

It was Mr. Johnston’s desire to familiarize himself with the underground operations of the mines, and the position of timekeeper gave him the opportunity. So well did he improve this that he was promoted to the superintendency of the company, under C.H. Hall, agent.

He continued in this capacity until the resignation of Mr. Hall in the fall of 1897, when he was made agent of the company and also given the same position with the Regent Iron Company, operating important mines in the City of Negaunee” (Iron Ore, November 5, 1927.)

When the Lake Superior Mining Company was purchased by the Oliver Mining Company, Johnston became the general superintendent of the Marquette range in charge of all Oliver Mining Company mines in the region.

“Mr. Johnston gave freely of his time to civic affairs during the years that he remained in Ishpeming. He served as alderman, as supervisor and several terms (1894 & 1895) as mayor. For many years he was a member of the board of directors of the Miners National bank and for a year he was at the head of the Lake Superior Mining Institute. He was a life member of Ishpeming lodge, F.&A.M. and belonged to other Masonic orders.” (Iron Ore, November 5, 1927)

“Following his retirement Captain and Mrs. Johnston made their home in Maitland, Fla., but for several years spent their summers here.” (Mining Journal, November 2, 1927)

Johnston died on Oct. 30, 1927 in Florida and is buried in Appleton, Wis.