Cave Johnson Phillips was born April 28, 1842, being the third child of nine children born to Preston D. and Amanda (Appleton) Phillips. The father is still living, at the age of seventy-seven, with our subject. The mother died in Davidson County about the year 1857. January 18, 1871, our subject was united in marriage to Jane W. Matthews, who was born July 25, 1851. The results of this union are seven children: Rufus S., born October 13, 1871; Dottie E., born September 11, 1873; Anthony J., born January 12, 1876; Willie F., born September 21, 1878; Almedia A., born November 1, 1880 (deceased); Judie Ray, born April 6, 1882, and William L., born February 22, 1885. Our subject began business for himself at the age of twenty-nine. He first engaged in farming, where he now lives, in Dickson County, and afterward engaged in general merchandising. He has been very successful in business, having accumulated about $6,000 since 1871. He and wife are members of the Christian Church. Politically he is a Democrat and is highly respected.