Source: "History of Manitowoc County Wisconsin" by Dr. L. Falge, 1911-1912, v.2, p.77-78.

William M. Boening, president and treasurer of the Wisconsin Knitting Mills, which are located at Fourteenth and Franklin streets, is one of the most capable men in his line in the country. He was born at Brandenburg, Germany, July 25, 1866, a son of Michael and Louise Boening. The father was an agriculturist at Sheboygan Falls until his death, which occurred in 1891. He is buried in the Sheboygan Falls cemetery. His widow is at present living with her son William M. Boening.

William M. Boening acquired his early education in the public schools at Sheboygan Falls and had to walk three miles a day to school from his father's farm. He laid aside his text-books at the age of fourteen years and after assisting his father for one year on the farm began learning the furniture manufacturing business. He was employed in various factories throughout the twenty years in which he was engaged in that business. During this time he became acquainted with Ernest H. Ludwig and when the Wisconsin Knitting Company dissolved partnership and discontinued business operations he and Mr. Ludwig formed the present company, which is now one of the most important productive industries of the city. The success of the firm is due in a great measure to Mr. Boening's management. His time and talents have been entirely given to business interests and his constantly increasing experience and proficiency have brought him into a prominent position in industrial circles. Although the firm has been conducting business only eight years, it has proven that it is established upon a firm basis and will continue its operations permanently. Mr. Boening has also been interested in other activities. He invented the veneer tapping machine and also a joint cutter, both of which are patented. They are used extensively in Germany, Canada and the United States.

At Sheboygan Falls, Wisconsin, on the 26th of November, 1896, Mr. Boening was married to Miss Christine Never, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Never. The father has resided at Sheboygan Falls for many years, where he is a tailor. Mr. and Mrs. Boening reside at 1015 South Eleventh street, their home having been erected in 1908.

In his political views Mr. Boening is a republican, having continuously supported the party since becoming a naturalized American citizen. He favors a protective policy and is in sympathy with the party upon other vital questions. During his eight years residence in Manitowoc his life has been conscientiously devoted to business. He never shirks a duty that devolves upon him and in every connection he has been found fully equal to the tasks which present themselves. Thus he has reached a prominent place in manufacturing circles in Manitowoc.

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