William Edward Dearing (1785-1853) was involved in multiple business ventures in Athens during the first half of the 19th century.
$20 from the Bank of Athens
In addition to serving as the President of the Athens Manufacturing Company, William Dearing also presided over the Bank of Athens and his signature is visible on this 1859 $20 bill. This bill also shows where Athens’ wealth was coming from by including a cotton mill worker at her loom on its face.