William O'Neil (Wisconsin politician)

William O'Neil (1848–1917) was a member of the Wisconsin Legislature.

Biography
O'Neil was born in the town of Scott, Columbia County, Wisconsin on September 20, 1848. In the fall of 1861 he enlisted in the 13th U.S. Infantry, in which he served until March 1862, when he was discharged for disability. In June 1862, he enlisted in the 20th Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry Regiment, and served until the end of Civil War, participating in all engagements in which that regiment took part.

From 1865 to 1872 he traveled throughout the country, finally settling at Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin. In 1880 he moved to Eau Claire, and in 1886 he moved to Washburn, where he operated a mercantile business. In 1887 he was elected chairman of the town board and was re-elected multiple times.

In 1892 he was elected to the State Assembly, and re-elected in 1894. In 1900 he was elected to the State Senate, and served the 12th District.