The History of Hendricks County (Chicago: Interstate Publishing, 1885)--Center Township, page 539
William A. Vawter, merchant, of Danville, Ind., was born in Lafayette, Tippecanoe Co., Ind., May 22, 1858, the eldest son of A.J. and Elizabeth (Richardson) Vawter. His father followed teaching, and taught in various places. He was Superintendent of the Lafayette public schools five years, and Principal of the Baptist Seminary at Ladoga, Ind., five years, and in those schools our subject received the most of his education. At the age of fourteen he was apprenticed to Wright, Baker & Co. to learn the book and job printing, with whom he remained nine years. In November, 1881, having given up the printing business, he went to Plainfield and engaged in the dry good business. In April, 1883, he removed his stock of goods to Danville, where he still carries on the business. Sept. 24, 1881, he was married to Miss Alice R., daughter of Harlan Hadley, of Plainfield, Ind. They have two children--Cora C. and William B. Mr. Vawter and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church of Danville.