[1] His parents moved the family to Labette County, Kansas, in 1871, and in 1881 his father died.

William started earning money by selling small goods as a child.

After he got older, he became a salesman, a good entry position for someone with limited education but much energy.

[2] While he was selling typewriters in Alabama, Coleman saw a lantern that used gasoline instead of kerosene.

[2] after two decades in Wichita, Coleman entered politics, joining the Republican Party.