William Spradling (circa 1827-1868) was the son of successful barber and businessman, Washington Spradling and Lucy Ann Jackson. It is possible that William was the twin brother of Martha Spradling. Their birth dates and ages changed several times over the years, so it’s difficult to be sure. Martha and William were the oldest of five total siblings and one half brother. On January 4, 1849, William married Melvina Riley in Louisville, KY. Together the couple had five children: Annie, McCawly, Mary, Julia, and William Jr. In the mid 1850s, William Spradling sought clients by placing ads in local newspapers. He described himself as a barber and hairdresser located at No. 88, Third Street. According to the 1880 Federal Census, their five children all had occupations. Annie was a nurse; McCawly was a barber; Mary was a teacher; Julia was a seamstress; and William Jr. was a barber. William Spradling died on August 5, 1892 from heart issues. He was about 67 years old. He is buried at Eastern Cemetery in the Spradling family plot. After William’s death, Melvina, Annie, Julia, and William lived with Mary and her husband George Pierce.
