William R. WARD, banker, of Benton, a native of Franklin County, was born August 12, 1848, the son of John and Mary (IRVING) WARD, natives of Illinois.  Our subject was reared to manhood in the State, and educated at the State University, at Bloomington, Ind.  In 1869 he engaged in merchandising here with his father, taking charge of the business and continuing until 1873, when Capt. Carroll MOORE became a member of the firm, then known as John Ward & Co, until 1876.  The father then withdrew, and our subject started the banking business with his other occupation.  Since 1882 Ward & Moore have been exclusively and successfully engaged in the banking business, the only bank in the county.  They also handle grain extensively, and railroad timber, the firm of Ward, Moore & McFall conducting the latter.  October 1, 1876, he married Imogene SNYDER, of this county.  Their only child is Robert R.  Our subject is a Democrat, and is a member of the Masonic order.