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Note: BIOGRAPHY: Taken from the Patrick County Heritage Book: BIOGRAPHY: William King Via, who died May 21, 1921, was for many years a resident of Critz, Patrick County. In his business career, the success that he achieved was a credit to him and the entire community. He was never in politics, but he steadily exerted an influence for the best welfare of his home town. BIOGRAPHY: William King Via was reared on his father's farm, and finished his education in the Sturart Normal School. He received a teacher's certificate in 1891 authorizing him to teach in free public schools of Patrick County. William H. Clark hired him to manage a store at Five Forks on Russell Creek, at Consent. After a year he moved to Critz and in 1893 he became associated with W.B. McArthur in the firm of McArthur and Via. In 1895 the business became W. King Via; general merchant. On February 21, 1895, Mary Rosa Bell Wood, daughter of James M. and Drucilla (Spencer) Wood, became to wife and business partner of W. King Via. Their success was a tribute to their united energies and mutual sacrifices. BIOGRAPHY: W. King Via was president of the local bank from the time it was organized and owned a farm and orchard interests. He was the prime mover in the building of the high school in Critz. A family member has the original copy of the signatures and the amount each person gave towards the new school. R.J. Reynolds was the largest contributor. The school was eventually made into a Reynolds memorial. BIOGRAPHY: AFter the death of W. King Via, the business continued under the name of Mr. W. King Via and Son. James Lee was assistant manager of the business.
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