William Gelston Bates

In August 1828, he was admitted to the bar of his native county, and began practice in Westfield, succeeding to the business of his father, who now retired.

He soon won distinction as a counselor, and continued in successful practice until forced to retire by the approach of disease and old age.

Besides his professional labors his readiness and felicity as a writer and speaker led him to be invited to the delivery of many public addresses, of several which were printed.

He was married, in October 1830, to Jane P., daughter of Maj. William Ashley, of Sheffield, Mass.

This article incorporates public domain material from the 1881 Yale Obituary Record.