William E. Hoopes and C.H. Olsen of Rock Rapids, Iowa came to Carrington to open a law office in 1900. Attorney Hoopes was appointed States Attorney in August 1901 to complete the term of George W. Soliday who had resigned. The partnership with Olsen was dissolved at this time and Olsen, who was not an attorney, retained the real estate, loan and abstract business. Olsen was a stenographer as well and in 1906 was appointed court reporter for the Fifth Judicial District at Valley City. Mrs. Olsen was a sister of Howard A. Wolf, longtime Carrington resident.
Hoopes was elected States Attorney in 1902 and served for two terms, (1903‑1906). After his time as States Attorney he continued his law, loan and real estate business at various locations. After the March 1908 fire he built a two story brick building on the south side of Main Street (Lot 4, Block 28) adjacent to the Commercial State Bank Building. He occupied the building from February 1911 until 1913 when it was sold to Sivertson and Lee, jewelers; but he retained the second floor for his offices. In later years he occupied quarters on the second floor of the First National Bank building.
Over the years W.E. Hoopes had several young lawyers start their careers with him. Among them were G.H. Stillman, P.W. Lamer and Edward A. Stevens. Stillman, after some years practice, moved to Minot. P.W. Lamer, after a year or so with Hoopes, practiced for a short time in Kenmare and then in Jamestown and Fargo. E.A. Stevens started by reading law in Hoopes' office and was admitted to the bar in 1929.
W.E. Hoopes married Grace Labaugh of Fairfield, Iowa September 19, 1902. They had no children. Their residence was on North First Street opposite the Carrington Motor Garage and show room. As a hobby, Hoopes raised Toggenburg milking goats in his backyard.
Source: A History of Foster County 1983 Page 220