July 10, 1820: William Robert Taylor, the 12th governor of Wisconsin, was born on July 10, 1820 in Connecticut. In 1848, Taylor drove a four-horse team with merchandise for the pineries in Wisconsin. He settled in Cottage Grove and farmed for 25 years, becoming involved in the grange movement. He was nominated for governor and elected in 1873. His administration became known as the reform administration and was responsible for regulating railway rates. Died: March 17, 1909.