Ishmael Williams was an ex-slave from Georgia who arrived in eastern Monterey county around 1858. He later moved to San Benito county where he established himself as a successful businessman at San Juan. Among his important contracts was as a teamster hauling supplies for the New Idria Quicksilver Mining Company. Ishmael delivered material and supplies to New Idria and hauled flasks of quicksilver to Monterey and Alviso. He was well known and very respected throughout the area. The 1860 census appraised his real and personal property at over $10,000, but later lost his wealth as the result of a bad marriage.

The Hollister Advance, June 14, 1873

I. Williams, one of our foremost teamsters, making regular trips to the new Idria Mines, has just had a strikingly majestic looking wagon erected by Walburg which in size, strength and exterior appearance surpasses anything we have ever seen of the kind. The floor of the wagon is completely enclosed by solid frame sides of about 6 feet high, with moveable roof, so as to completely shelter and protect goods from any vicissitude of weather. Mr. Williams' spirit is highly commendable and worthy of special notice.

The Hollister Advance, January 3, 1874

Married -- at San Juan, on the 1st instant, I. Williams to Mrs. Alice Harlan. A Grand Wedding -- The happy event which we predicted a fortnight since occurred on New Year’s day at San Juan, where I. Williams, the driver of No. 1 team to New Idria Mines, got spliced to Mrs. Alice Harlan. On their return to this city they entertained a numerous circle of acquaintances with an unlimited quantity of wine and lager.

The Hollister Advance, April 11, 1874

The roads from the New Idria and Cerro Benito Mines are reported in excellent condition. Mr. Williams took 14,000 lbs. freight yesterday for the New Idria Mines, it being the heaviest load yet taken from the depot. …

Ishmael Williams