Gus Williams

Gustave Wilhelm Leweck Jr. (July 19, 1848 – January 16, 1915) was an American comedian and songwriter.

Early life Gustave Wilhelm Leweck Jr. was born on July 19, 1848, the son of a New York City German-American fur importer. While in his early teens Williams left home to seek adventure in the American West. He made it as far as Indiana where circumstances deemed it necessary for the boy to find work as a farmhand. On August 12, 1862, fourteen-year-old Williams left farm work behind and joined Company F of the 48th Indiana Infantry to serve in the American Civil War.

Career

Williams, who was probably a drummer boy, soon became popular in the service providing entertainment that helped alleviate the daily boredom of camp life.