Winslow Williams became one of the leading woolen manufacturers in Eastern Connecticut. He was born in Norwich in 1830, the son of Capt. Erastus Williams of Essex, Connecticut. Mr. Williams graduated from Trinity College in 1853 and, in 1854, following his father’s death, took over the operation of the Yantic Woolen Mills. In 1865, the buildings, which had stood since 1822, were destroyed by fire. That same year, new mill buildings, constructed of stone, were built to replace those lost to the fire. Civil War demand gave production a boost, which lasted almost forty years.

In 1874, the mill employed 130 workers and produced 35,000 yards of white and colored flannel each week. Winslow’s concern for his community and employees was reflected in the company’s policy of setting aside excess production for sale when needed. This practice kept the mill running smoothly through both good times and bad. Mr. Williams took a great interest in community affairs. His mill was the center of social and recreational activity for the village of Yantic. He was active in the Yantic Fire Company, which his father had founded. He rebuilt the Merchants Hotel in Norwich, which housed the Superior Court of Errors on the third floor. Winslow was trustee and incorporator of the Norwich Free Academy.