Located about four miles east-southeast of Pratum, the area was named for Abner S. Willard, a pioneer of 1847. Willard was born in Ohio in 1827. He died in 1851 on his donation land claim.

c1855 Willard school district established.

1889 Willard post office was established with Mary H. Starmer first postmaster. The office was closed in April 1904.

1893 Willard church was established.