Note: William's first wife Polly Clark was in her early forties when she died in Gallia Co. on 30 March 1862. By then they had at least three children: Mary Ann, John P. and George W.
In 1870 William Bickle aged 56 was farming in Guyan Twp. where he owned real estate valued at $500.00 and personal assets worth $200.00. His wife Nancy S. Gothard was 35 years old. Two sons were at home, John P. 18, a day laborer; and George W. 16, who helped on the farm.
Ten years later William and Nancy had a young daughter of their own: Oretha who was six years old. Also in the household were son George W. 23 and niece Savannah Holley or Halley, aged 12.