Benton County Tennessee Genealogy Early Settlers Biographies Send your "Early Settler's" biography for inclusion on this page to County Coordinator Obediah Hardin Elder Obediah Hardin was born in 1794, in Halifax County, North Carolina. His parentage was of yeoman stock, poor and uncultured people. It would seem that he was an only child, and that his early life was marred by the early deaths of his parents, and the event of his being handed to the County Court which in turn apprenticed him to another of his class, Ebenezer Gilbert, in February, 1801 (Court Minutes, 1799-1803, p. 7). The record reads of this action, simply as: "Obediah Hardin, a base-born child aged seven years is bound to Ebenezer Gilbert to learn the art and calling of a farmer." The Justice of the Peace, John Justis, of Halifax Court, filled out the document which bound young Obediah to Gilbert. This document yet remains in the possession of a descendent of Obediah Hardin. It reads: "State of North Carolina Halifax County       THIS INDENTURE, made the 17th day of February in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and One and in the 25th year of the Independence of Said State, by and between John Justis Esquire, presiding acting Justice of said county, and his successors in office of the one part, and Ebenezer Gilbert of the other part, witnesseth, that John Justis Esquire of said county, hath put and placed Obediah Hardin a orphaned base-born Child aged Seven Years an Apprentice to Ebenezer Gilbert of the said county with him to dwell, reside and serve, until the said Apprentice shall arrive at the age of Twenty one years, according to the Act of Assembly in that case made and provided. During which the said Apprentice said Master shall faithfully serve in all lawful business and orderly and obediently in all things behave himself towards his said Master for the during the said term, as an Apprentice ought to do. And the said Ebenezer Gilbert will provide and allow his said Apprentice, convenient and sufficient meat, drink, lodging and apparel, and use his best endeavors to instruct him in the art and calling of a farmer and also to teach him to read and write before the expiration of his apprenticeship. In witness whereof, the said John Justis and the said Ebenezer Gilbert have hereunto inter-changeably set their hands and seals, the day and year first above written. Signed, Sealed, and Delivered L. Long C Clk his John Justis SEAL Ebenezer XGilbert SEAL He was called Elder Hardin It was from February 17th that the little lad took his birthdate. Obediah was accordingly raised on Gilbert's farm and there grew to young manhood. He was not taught to read or write, though; probably because his master could not teach him, and he did not have the opportunity to attend a school. When he was still in his teens, Obediah traveled to East Tennessee. It was still an exciting country when he arrived. It was there he joined the East Tennessee Volunteer Mounted Gunmen (artillery), on September 28, 1814. Colonel Williamson and Captain Beverly Williams were the officers of this regiment. The War of 1812 was in its last stages when Obediah volunteered, but there was a great deal of action yet to be seen in the South. The War of 1812 was a conflict between the United States of America and Great Britain; it had begun in June, 1812. By the fall of 1814 the Americans had scored several land and naval victories, as well as defeats. The group of artillerymen of which Obediah was a member made expeditions into Alabama, Mississippi, and finally into Louisiana, at the Battle of New Orleans, January 8, 1815. When Obediah was to later reach great age he recounted these times to his family. The war ended and Obediah returned to North Carolina where he * married Mary Goodwin Hull on December 6, 1816. Polly Hull, as she was called, had been born in Halifax County, North Carolina, on December 5, 1797; she married the day before her nineteenth birthday. She was of yeoman ancestry, of a good lineage. In her youth Polly had received a little educational instruction. The young couple was not to make Carolina their home for the next spring they traveled, by oxcart, over the Appalachian Mountains into Tennessee. Before leaving for this new country, Polly's mother told her, admonishing her daughter, "Stick to him," in relation to Obediah. How many pioneer mothers had to breathe hard to departing daughters these words of advice? In 1817, Tennessee extended only as far as the western portion of the Tennessee River. Beyond that lay the Western District, a fertile, uncultivated haven of the Chickasaw Indians. This region was not open to white settlement, but many pioneers entered the area, anyway. This is what Obediah and Polly Hardin did. They crossed the Tennessee River near Reynoldsburg (then the county seat of Humphreys County which was situated on the east bank of the river; Humphreys County had been formed in 1805.) On a high hill Obediah built his cabin; below their cabin lay the Badger Creek, and just above it, opposite the Hardin's, ran one branch of the Natchez Trace Road. Obediah was a "squatter" which was a term used to designate a pioneer who settled on Indian lands. It was not until two years later, on October 19, 1818, that Andrew Jackson and Isaac Shelby concluded a treaty with the Chickasaws by which West Tennessee, and other lands, were ceded to the United States government. Then, in 1820, West Tennessee was opened for settlement. But many families had already established their homes there. On November 1, 1817, Polly Hardin gave birth to their first child and son. They gave him the name, John Harrison Hardin. For the next two years they probably had no encounter with the Indians; their little cabin was only about a mile distance from the Tennessee River bank. Another safety for them was the Natchez Trace Road. Obediah was not a large man, considered to be small in stature, but he was hardy and strong; his was an interesting and clean shaven face. Polly was just a little shorter than her husband. Obediah erected his cabin home, using yellow Poplar timber for its walls. There was one large room on the ground floor, and there was added as time went by and as more children were born, an attic where several beds were placed; this compartment was reached by means of a stairway located in the south-east corner of the cabin. Then, there was added a hallway which led north to the log room extended from the rest of the cabin; this was the kitchen. It was the custom of the day to build kitchens away from the main living quarters, in order to keep out cooking odors. At the east end of the cabin there was a large fireplace, which had a sandstone chimney. It was here that Polly cooked their meals. Obediah planted a crop and chiefly from this his little family lived. Polly used the creek below their cabin for drinking purposes as well as washing. At this early date water pollution was not such a problem. But, doubtless they suffered occasionally from the ague and other slight disorders. When supplies were needed, a trip to Reynoldsburg was necessary. On November 11, 1819, another son was born to the Hardins; they named him William Lee Hardin. Beginning in 1826, and about every two years afterwards until 1838, Obediah and Polly Hardin had children born to them. They were, respectively: Nancy Auriminter (Nan), Mary Athison (Martha), Elijah (Lige), Elizabeth Frances (Lizzie), Robert (Bob), and Rebecca. The two older boys, John and Will were growing up and helped their father run his small farm. However, young John Hardin soon established his own home, for he married Sarahann Davidson in 1838; they became parents the following year. Will Hardin was not to marry until 1851. From the official tax list of Benton county ( The Hardin cabin was located after the Treaty of 1819 in Humphreys County, which had been extended across the river, and a further division was made, from which Benton County was formed in 1836.), in 1839, reveals that Obediah owned eighty-five acres of land, then valued at the goodly sum of three hundred dollars. On this land was grown corn and cotton; the livestock included cows, horses, and hogs. The land was not fertile and required much attention. In general, Obediah's land was made up of hills and some level land. Indeed, a large hill set almost to the back of his cabin. From the summit of this eminence a person could look out over the surrounding country for a good distance. The most fertile land in Benton County was located in its lower portion. Obediah owned some of the best land in his section, as witnessed by the evaluation listing of 1839. Obediah and his sons cultivated their own land; neither he or his sons ever owned slaves; he probably abhorred the institution and doubtless recalled his own years of servitude. While these years were ones of relative prosperity, Obediah was also bettering himself as an individual. Polly taught her husband to read and write. They became devout Missionary Baptists; indeed he took the Hebrew meaning of his name quite seriously, "servant of the Lord." By the 1840's he had established himself as an unlicensed clergyman. He often took up and read his beloved Holy Bible; it was published at Lunenburg, Massachusetts in 1826. In it he also recorded the births of his family. That he had ability is witnessed by the fact that he was readily accepted by Benton Countians and churchmen of the area. It would be saying too much to accredit him with extraordinary talents, because he did not have the educational background for the ministry; but his service was born of love, he was devoted to the faith, lived it, and adequately taught others its blessings. He married Mathies Neighbors and Mary Ann Davidson on August 13, 1847; Joseph Walker and Elizabeth Marchbanks on October 14, 1848. At the conference of Baptists, at Chalklevel (in Benton County), in 1852, Obediah Hardin was licensed to preach; he was then fifty-eight years of age. The license reads: "August 14th 1852 Tennessee Benton County The Church at Chalklevel met in conference unanimously resolved to License Brother Obediah Hardin to Preach in the bounds of this Church or elsewhere, that God in his Providence may direct, signed by order of the Church. J. V. Coarly M D J. P. Arnold (C. Proten) Brother Obediah also had other talents, among them carpentry; he did very good work in this wise; in fact, he made almost all of his and Polly's furniture, including their cupboard and long oak table. He built a little shed a few feet from his cabin and in there practiced carpentry, kept his farm tools, etc. In the "big room" of the cabin Polly and her daughters used the spinning wheel and loom to make their clothes; they also purchased good satin cloth for better dresses. Obediah was a good father, as witnessed by the love his children had for him. Before and after the American Civil War (1861-65), Obediah Hardin preached at the Chalklevel Baptist Church, one of the oldest churches in that area, and at the preaching grounds near Cypress Creek in Benton County. At the time of the great civil conflict, Obediah's son, Lige Hardin and his grandson, Isaac Hardin, enlisted in Company I of the 49th Tennessee Infantry Regiment (Confederate). Isaac Hardin was captured and taken to Camp Douglas, Illinois, where he took the Oath of Allegiance in August, 1862; Lige returned from the war. Obediah's sons-in-law, Hardy Hatley and Wesley Bailey, were respectively killed at Fort Donelson, Tennessee (1862) and died at Camp Douglas, Illinois (1863). Two of his daughters were not married, Nan and Lizzie. The Hardins always dreaded the menace of "wandering soldiers." Once some of these soldiers, so-called, entered their home, and Polly, now old, said to them, "You won't hurt me, will you?" They did not. However, they (soldiers) did make them cook. They were very happy when the war ended. With so many of the younger men away at war and there being a scarcity of ministers in his area, Obediah performed several marriage ceremonies. The compiled list of these are: William D. Childress and N. E. Peeler, on August 1, 1861; Daniel F. McElyea and Jane Stigall, on September 17, 1861; Joseph Draper and Sarah Ann Hymen on December 20, 1863; Thomas Marchbanks and Elizabeth L. D. Nunnery, on January 5, 1864; William Franklin Thompson and A. M. Poo, on January 10, 1864; Francis Marion Capps and Artie M. Thompson, On January 10, 1864; James Watson and Mary Capps, on September 18, 1864; William Mitchell and Viola Moslyew, on December 28, 1864; J. P. Simmons and Meed Ford, on February 4 1865; James Nowell and Mary Ann Qully, on March 26, 1865; J. S. Smith and Mary Urbay, on April 20, 1865; W. W. Salos and M. V. Ford, on June 5, 1865; Henry P. Otegall and Margaret A. Williams, on September 10, 1865. On December 8, 1869, he married his grandson, Isaac (Ike) Hardin to Susan Burton; married another grandson, Allen Van Buren Hardin to Leona Parker, on September 2, 1874. He also married Isaac Davidson and Elizabeth Hicks, on September 22, 1874; A. H. Mitchell and R. L. Alston, on March 14, 1875; Francis Marion Capps and Mary C. Vickery, on October 11, 1875. Obediah Hardin lost his wife and daughter, Polly and Nan Hardin, in 1872; they died with smallpox. They were laid to rest in burying ground, known as the Hardin graveyard. In 1872, his daughter, Rebecca and her second husband removed to Greene County, Arkansas. In 1873 they returned home and landed at Rockport Landing (Benton County). Obediah rode down to the landing to meet them on his gray mare. Thrown around him was his gray shawl (type of overcoat men wore then). Here he welcomed them home. He was now old and it was difficult for him to stand and preach, so he ministered to his people sitting in a chair. In the last few years of his life, he was bothered by face cancer. He had established his children on land near him. His religious activities lent great influence to those who knew him, though none of his children were quite as virtuous as he. Finally his daughter, Lizzie Hardin, was the only child at home. Early in 1878, Obediah Hardin's spirit left its earthly tabernacle, and his body laid to rest beside his wife. He left seven living children, twenty-four grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren. Though born of low birth, this man, Obediah Hardin had taken his inherited abilities and developed them, and most important of all, he had served his fellow man. Not overly virtuous, but a man of sterling quality - a true Christian - he stands as a noble pioneer ancestor to hundreds of people. The children of Obediah and Polly (Hull) Hardin: John Harrison Hardin (1817-1883); William Lee Hardin (1819-1895); Nancy Auriminter Hardin (1826-1872); Mary Athison (1828-1878); Elijah (1831-1905); Elizabeth Frances (1834-1887; Robert (1836-1880); Rebecca (1838-1891). A I John Harrison Hardin (November 1, 1817 - October 13, 1883, with kidney ailment), m. Sarahann Davidson, 1838. She was born in 1818. John H. Hardin was a farmer, lived not far from his father. Children: 1. Nancy Ann (1843-1872, never married), 2. Isaac (1842- ), 3. Samuel Obediah (1844-1914), 4. William Zechariah (1848-1923), 5. Lafayette (1854-1925), 6. Artimelia (1859 m. James Pinchard. Lived in Greene County, Arkansas. She died about 1901, and had no children.) There was an infant daughter, born in 1839, died before 1850. A I - 2 Isaac Hardin, born in Benton County in 1842. He removed to Greene County, Arkansas, m. Susan Burton (b. 1843), on December 8, 1869. He enlisted in the 49th Tennessee Infantry Regiment (Confederate); was taken prisoner to Camp Douglas, Illinois, where he took to Oath of Allegiance, August, 1862. Children: 1. Jeremiah (Jerry) b. July, 1870; 2. Sintha b. 1873; 3. James b. 1875; 4. Hester b. 1878; A I - 3 Samuel Obadiah Hardin, born in Benton County in 1844. He lived and died in the third district of that county. m. Noieda Allen (b. 1844), on September 7, 1872. He was nicknamed "Tode"; died in 1914. Children: A I - 31 Albert Marshall Hardin, born May 9, 1875, died April 8 1948; m. Lelia Holland (August 27, 1888 - June 8, 1953), March 2, 1905. Buried at East View Cemetery, Benton County. He was a farmer. Children: A I - 311 Maude Hazel Hardin, born January 14, 1906, m. John Clara Melton (July 12, 1894), April 2, 1921. Lived a few miles from Camden, Tennessee. Children: 1. Iva Pauline (b. September 8, 1922, m. Raymond Troutt, December 18, 1937. Issue: 1. Kelton Ray (March 3, 1939 d. June 12, 1939); 2. Jerry Wayne (August 13, 1946), 3. Brenda Joyce (December 28, 1949). 2. Oschell Glen Melton (b. May 20, 1926 - d. July 22, 1926). 3. Clifford Melton (b. April 20, 1929 m. Dorothy Darotiak, January 15, 1949). He served in the Armed Forces During the Korean Conflict. 4. Kenneth Wayne Melton (b. August 23, 1939 - d. January 14, 1940). 5. Lillie Marie (b. Auguat 7, 1945). A I - 312 Herschel Guy Hardin, b. September 12, 1908, m. 1. Della Truell (d. February 9, 1945), February 2, 1935, one child, Bettie Louise b. November 14, 1939; 2. Rosie Ownes, February 16, 1946. Issue: 1. Lillie Pearl (b. April 2, 1947), 2. Herschel Thomas (b. October 10, 1948), 3. Paul Wayne (b. November 28, 1949), 4. Billie Joe (b. November 23, 1951), 5. Robert Marshall (b. March 21, 1956). A I - 313 Walter Oschall Hardin, born October 13, 1911, m. Lottie Goodman (b. May 17, 1918), December 22, 1933. Issue: 1. Alma Sue (b. March 8, 1935), 2. Ann Nell (b. May 9, 1936), 3. Bobby Lee (b. February 18, 1938), 4. Donald Elvis (b. October 29, 1940), 5. J. C. (b. March 18, 1944- d. March 19, 1944), 6. Pamela (b. February 29, 1952). A I - 314 Albert Vassie Hardin, born August 25, 1914, m. Effie Warren (b. June 19, 1917), March 21, 1936. Issue: 1. A. V. (b. March 4, 1937), 2. Lendil (b. May 28, 1938), 3. Stillborn girl (b. March 5, 1940), 4. Alton Ray (b. February 4, 1941), 5. Nell Gene (b. March 11, 1943). A I - 315 Vera Louise Hardin, born June 6, 1917, m. James Cook (b. August 31, 1912), March 21, 1938. Issue: 1. Elton Thomas (b. December 10, 1937), 2. Nancy Ruth (b. January 26, 1942), 3. David Bradley (b. January 13, 1945), 4. Larry Dale (b. October 7, 1947. A I - 316 Opal Hardin, born November 19, 1919, m. James Waller (b. September 20, 1915), July 4, 1937. Issue: 1. James Daniel (stillborn) (b. September 21, 1939), 2. Donna Fay (b. October 22, 1941). A I - 317 Blanty B. Hardin, born May 10, 1935, m. Lois Beechium, June 27, 1947. Issue: 1. Charles Randy (b. August3, 1950). A I - 320 Margaret Elizabeth (Lizzie) Hardin, born February 23, 1877, m. Robert Morion Sterling (b. December 27, 1872), May 15, 1906. She died December 26, 1955; lived near Jonesboro, Arkansas: Issue: A I - 321 Beulah Sterling, born February 10, 1907, m. Sherman Brewer, February 17th 1932. Jonesboro, Ark. Issue: 1. Ruth (b. November 18, 1932, an invalid. 2. Stillborn male (b. August 27, 1933), 3. Opal (b. May 24, 1936, m. Dearl Gono Raas, April 1, 1953. Issue: 1. Delores Ann (b. May 4, 1954). 4. Mildred (b. April 1942), 5. Shirley Ann (b. May 2, 1944 - d. May 2, 1944). A I - 322 Lucinda Hardin Sterling, born February 15, 1905, died May 22, 1920. A I - 323 Patterson Sterling, born May 31, 1908, not married. A I - 324 Malcolm Sterling, born May 31, 1908, m. Wanda Lee Gilmer, December 1, 1945. Issue: 1. Linda Sue (b. November 26, 1947), 2. Gary (b. June 7, 1952). A I - 325 Lula Lee Sterling, born July 12, 1911, not married. A I - 326 Ceil Sterling, born September 21, 1913, m. Mary Vernia Moore, January 10, 1950. No children. A I - 33 Cordelia Victoria Hardin, born 1879, m. John T. Davidson, February 23, 1897. Issue: 1. Earl, 2. Chester, 3. Reba, 4. Lem, 5. Ivel. A I - 34 Infant Daughter Hardin, died young. A I - 35 Virgil Hardin, born 188?, m. Lee Hardin (his second cousin), Bruceton, Tenn. Issue: 1. William m. Gertrude Sterling, September 3, 1921; 2. Tessie m. Harve E. Vowell, October 13, 1923. Several children; 3. Buford, 4. James, 5. Esther. Virgil and Lee Hardin Married on January 6, 1897. A I - 36 Dora Hardin, born 1881, m. Clark Cole, April 7, 1904. She died many years ago; had a son, Theodore Cole, b. April 16, 1905, and lives in Steel, Missouri. A I-37 Ada Lee Hardin, died young. A I - 4 William Zechariah Hardin, Born October 24, 1848, d. 1923, m. Elizabeth Lewis (January 15, 1847-April 14, 1921), December 22, 1869. Moved to Greene County, Arkansas in 1886. Issue: A I - 41 William Hardin, b. 1870, d. about 1873. A I - 42 Nancy Ann Hardin, b. 1872, d. many years ago. A I - 43 Artie Jane Hardin, born August 31, 1874, d. November 14, 1946, m. James Benton Horne, December 25, 1894. Issue: 1. Stella Horne (b. October 10, 1897), m. William Thomas Davis, July 18, 1915. Beech Grove, Arkansas. Issue: 1. James Houston Davis (b. July 1, 1916), m. Anna Mae Jetton, November 25, 1939. Issue: 1. George Allan (b. December 8, 1940), 2. James Max (b. September 2, 1943), 3. Rickey Hugh (b. May 23, 1947). 2. Narine Davis (b. December 7, 1917, d. March 31, 1941), m. Artie Daniels, September 27, 1936. Issue: 1. Mary Anita (b. March 12, 1941-d. March 31, 1941). 3. Thomas Melvin Davis (b. November 14, 1919), m. Javine Mancrum, in June, 1941, no children. 4. Gerald Edward Davis (b. May 25, 1922), m. Alma Clifton, November 7, 1942. Issue: 1. Joan Carol (b. November 27, 1946), 2. Gerald Wesley (b. November 30, 1948), 3. Philip Rodney (b. March 11, 1953). 5. Dorothy Dean Davis (b. December 16, 1924-d. November 2, 1926). 6. Virginia Lucille Davis (b. April 18, 1927), m. William Frank Ade, January 15, 1945. Issue: 1. Gary Wayne (b. February 23, 1946). 7. Helen Ruth Davis (b. January 23, 1929), m. Dallas Bracey, April, 1948. Issue: 1. Deborah Ann (b. January 31, 1952). 8. Delmer Eugene Davis (b. July 25, 1931). 9. Martha Jane Davis (b. March 3, 1933), m. Harold Morrow, November 11, 1950. Issue: 1. Catherine Jeanette (b. April 19, 1953). 10. Donald Wayne Davis (b. October 18, 1933). Attended Draughone College in Memphis, Tennessee. 2. Ethel Horne, born December 26, 1900, m. Henry Russom, July 12, 1919. Lived in Beech Grove, Arkansas. Issue: 1. Stillborn girl (b. May 22, 1920). 2. Milton Benton Russom (b. April 7, 1921), m. Marie Williams, no issue. 3. Earlene Russom (b. October 1, 1922), m. J. B. Mangrum. Issue: 1. Henrietta (b. January 18, 1941), 2. Linda Kaye (b. March 15, 1942), 3. Ronald Dennis (b. August 13 1943). 4. Mildred Bernice Russom (b. April 8, 1924), m. Beryl Roberts. Issue: 1. Jerry Wayne (b. June 7, 1942), 2. Barbara Ann (b. January 13, 1947). 5. Stillborn son (b. January 26, 1925). 6. Reba Jean Russom (b. January 28, 1927), m. Paul McDaniel, no issue. 7. Davis Wayne Russom (b. September 25, 1929), m. Cholre Ruth Collins, no issue. 8. Artie Larona Russom (b. August 21, 1934), m. Lamon Huckabee. Issue: 1. Jimmy Lamon (b. March 22, 1953). 3. Vestal Horne, born March 13, 1902, m. Ralph Norman, July 27, 1819. Norman was born on December 11, 1897. Lived in Paragould, Arkansas. Issue: 1. James Berlos (b. September 11, 1920), m. Margie Javine Williams, September 20, 1941. Issue: 1. James Weldon (b. April 5, 1943) 2. Lary Winston (b. May 16, 1944), 3. Mitchell Dwayne (b. August 27, 1946), 4. Ronald Norris (b. August 12, 1948). 2. Mertis Javine Norman (b. August 17, 1923), m. Wilburn Connie Williams, May 29, 1946. Issue: 1. Sandra Kay (b. February 26, 1947), 2. Michael Jerome (b. November 21, 1950). 3. Geneal Norman (b. August 21, 1926),m. Dennis Glynn Hightower, December 27, 1942, no issue. 4. Roberta Maxine Norman (b. July 3, 1928), m. Donald Baron, May 2, 1951. Issue: 1. Stephen Ralph (b. March 19, 1952), 2. Kathy Darlene (b. April 20, 1954). 5. Wendell Leon Norman (b. March 27, 1938), m. Wilma Jean Pecks, March 21, 1950. Issue: 1. K. Gerwyn (b. December 11, 1951), 2. Cheryl Jean (b. March 16, 1953), 3. Gala Sue (b. August 11, 1954). 6. Laverne Kay Norman (b. August 18, 1940). All children born in Beech Grove, Arkansas, except Leon who was born at Greenway, Arkansas. 4. Zelma Horne, born August 23, 1904, m. Clarence Russom (b. August 1, 1904), September 17, 1921. Paragrould, Arkansas. Issue: 1. Artie Mae Russom (b. April 13, 1923-d. March 15, 1924). 2. J. C. Russom (b. July 12, 1925-d. August 6, 1926). 3. James Russom (b. May 12, 1927), not married. 4. Davis Russom (b. August 22, 1932), m. Hugh McDonald (b. February 5, 1928), December 24, 1950. Issue 1. Ricky Leon (b. April 6, 1952). 5. Carolyn (b. August 16, 1939), 6. Marilyn (b. May 21, 1942). 5. James Elmer Horne, born February 6, 1908, m. 1. Mildred Cloud (died), one son, James Elmer, Jr. (b. June 29, 1928), not married; 2. Velza Martin (b. October 15, 1912), in 1933. Flint, Michigan. Issue: 1. Bonnie Mac (b. December, 1934), 2. Glenda Faye (b. October 31, 1941), 3. Betty Sue (b. May 13, 1945), 4. Elmer Wayne (b. December 9,1947). 6. Lora Alleen Horne, born April 22, 1918, m. John W. Rodgers (World War II veteran), October 21, 1933. Issue: 1. Johnnie Karen (b. December 27, 1940). Flint, Michigan. 7. William Arvin Horne, born February 3, 1917, m. H. Grace North (b. September 1, 1921). Issue: 1. Margaret Janalee (b. February 19, 1941). A I - 44 Sophonia Hardin, born 1876, died many years ago. A I - 45 Edward Hardin, born November 4, 1878, in Benton County. m. 1. Alice Thomason (b. October 15, 1882-d. February 18, 1951), November 24, 1904. 2. Lula May (Fox) Hampton (he m. Tana Hampton in 1910), November 7, 1951. Paragould, Arkansas. Issue: 1. Audrie Hardin (b. December 30, 1905, m. Carl Stevenson, July 12, 1924. Issue: 1. Carmen (b. April 4, 1925, m. Gene Doller. Issue: 1. Mike (b. 1949). 2. Raymon Stevenson (b. July 22, 1928-d. June 2, 1951, not married). 3. Joan Stevenson (b. June 11, 1932, m. James Yarbor. Issue: 1. Pamela. 4. Elaine (b. November 27, 1938). A I - 46 Della Hardin, born December 23, 1882, m. Walter H. Blalock, January 6, 1906. Issue: 1. Ruth Blalock (b. October 8, 1907, m. M. Lofton), 2. William Edward (b. November 21, 1911), 3. Virgil L. (b. October 31, 1913), 4. Lucille Ann (b. March 15, 1917), 5. M. June (b. June 23, 1924- d. 1928). A I - 5 Lafayette (Fate) Hardin, was born March 19, 1854, in Benton County. Died at his home in Greene County, Arkansas, July 5, 1925, m. October 27, 1879 to Rhoda Moore (b. November 21, 1857-d. November 17, 1918). A farmer. Issue: 1. Dollie Jane Hardin (b. April 21, 1882, m. J. M. Barron, 1899. Have several children). 2. Gertie May Hardin (b. August 13, 1885-d. December, 1912, not married). 3. Bertie Odessor Hardin (b. August 13, 1885, m. A. West, 1912. Several children). 4. John Marvin Hardin (b. March 24, 1890, was married, had one son, John Hardin, a policeman. This family resided in Little Rock, Arkansas). 5. Grace Hardin (b. May 1, 1898-d. 1958, not married). A 2 William Lee Hardin, was born November 11, 1819, in Benton County, Tennessee. He remained with his parents and farmed for several years. On July 1, 1851, he married Sarah Elizabeth Capps (b. January 11, 1835- d. October 31, 1886). She was the daughter of Hillery and Mariah Balard (Steptoe) Capps. He then built his own home, farmed his own acres of land. His home was a two-room log dwelling with a “dog-trot” in the middle. There was a side porch, fireplaces at both ends, one window in the main room. It was a snug swelling, now gone. Will Hardin was pleasing in personality, was a regular church-goer, either walking or riding his mule to church at Chalklevel. As regarding physical features, he was about the same as his father and wore chin whiskers. He was taught when young to read and write. He was a respected man. Will Hardin signed his name W. Hardin. He was married the first time by J. F. Presson; his wife died in 1886 with Tuberculosis. He then married Mrs. Elizabeth Parilyn (Fowler) Holland (she married John T. Holland, August 20, 1865, by whom she had her family; after Will died she married John Love on December 8, 1896.). Will and Parilyn Holland were married December 30, 1888, by J. G. Gibbons. A granddaughter, Cassie Mae Hardin, was the “Little One”, as he called her, who brought the twinkle to his eyes and joy to his heart. She was only a baby and he would come to his son’s house, get her and ride her on his horse. He also bought clothing for her. At about three o’clock in the afternoon of October 2, 1895, Will Hardin died; the cause was Tuberculosis. He was laid to rest by his wife in the Hardin Cemetery. Markers to their memory were later placed at the site of their graves there. Issue: A 2 - 1 William Lee Hardin, Jr., born in 1852, died in 1854. Called "Little Willie Hardin". First Hardin said to be buried in the Hardin Cemetery. A 2-2 Allen Van Buren Hardin, born May 18, 1855, in Benton County. He spent his entire life in the Chalk Level Community in that county. As a young boy, he worked on the farm and attended school when he could. Even though he had little opportunity for formal education, he studied himself. Allen even studied medicine under his uncle, Dr. Francis Marion Capps, for a while. In this way he acquired enough knowledge to be of assistance to the sick in his family and in the community. On September 2, 1874, he married Leona Victoria (Vicky) Barker (b. June 24, 1855-d. January 24, 1925). She was the daughter of Briggs and Angeline (Williams) Barker. In 1910, Allen built a large two story house over the former site of their first home; near the old homeplace of his father. He served as Church Clerk for forty years or more. In March, 1912, he was made a deacon, he resigned to become Church Clerk. He also served for many years as Sunday School Superintendent. Allen Hardin was always interested in his family background and in keeping up with living members of the family. He served his county, being in the County Court for over forty years. People came to him with their troubles and he was always willing to lend a hand or give advice. He was a Justice of the Peace of the first order. When he began to grow old and less able to work his farm, he established a country store across the way from his house. Allen Hardin always said he wanted to wear out, not rust out. By those who knew him he was remembered as a man who could pray ardently, and for a long period. In January, 1942, he contracted measles, never fully recovered. He realized that his time was near; talked a lot about dying and the things he wanted done, planned his own funeral, and died March 3, 1942. He was buried among the kinfolk’s he loved so well, in the Hardin Cemetery. Issue: 1. Mary Frances Hardin (b. January 14, 1877-d. September 27, 1878). A 2 - 22 Martin Luther Hardin, born June 22, 1881, m. Mable Whitson, April, 1909. He taught for a time at Union College in Jackson, Tennessee, and was County Superintendent of Schools for Benton County for several years. He and his wife bore no children; he died August 12, 1925. A 2 - 23 Dossy Hardin, born September 30, 1883, m. Myrtle Capps (b.1805), October 18, 1918. A farmer. Issue: 1. Joy (b. December 6, 1919-d. December 29, 1939, with food poisoning, not married). A 2 - 24 Alice Hardin, born September 13, 1887, never married. She had been of great help in giving the compiler family data; she owns the old Obediah Hardin Holy Bible. She lives with her sister in Camden, Tenn. A 2 - 25 Myrtie Hardin, born October 13, 1893, m. Bob Smith (b. February 1, 1888), May 3, 1925. Bob Smith is a large land owner. Issue: 1. Dr. Thomas Allen Smith (b. March 2, 1928, studied medicine at Memphis State University, not married). 2. Stillborn girl (b. April 18, 1927). 3. Leon Smith (b. April 20, 1930, from 1950-53 served in Armed Forces; was in Korea, not married). 4. Dr. Paul Herbert Smith (b. October 27, 1933, attended college in Auburn, Miss. He is a veterinarian. Not married. A 2 - 3 Mary Cordelia (Sis) Hardin, was born June 13, 1861, m. 1. William D. (Bill) Taylor, December 30, 1875, one child, Sadie b. 1876, died 1878; 2. Jesse Johnson, February 1, 1881, two children; 3. James Neil Nunnery (b. August 15, 1830-d. December 1, 1911), November 5, 1885. She died on September 1, 1916, buried at Shiloh Church, near Holleday, Tennessee. Issue: A 2 - 32 Eve Bell Johnson, born December, 1881, m. Doss James Nunnery (b. 1876-d. September, 1896), February 4, 1895. Buried at Shiloh Church. She died many years ago. Issue: 1. Joel Nunnery (b. March 7, 1896, m. Mary Edith Yates, January 12, 1915. On July 10, 1931, while on the back of a truck turning a curve Joel was thrown off and killed. Issue: 1. Michael Yates Nunnery (b. September 28, 1929, Camden, Tenn. Not married. Armed Forces). A 2 - 33 Horace Johnson, born March 22, 1884, m. Arve Johnson (b. February 26, 1886), January 19, 1905. Issue: 1. Mable (b. December 29, 1905-d. September 12, 1908). 2. Jessie Buford Johnson (b. February 9, 1908, m. Bessie Higdon, January 25, 1926. No children.). 3. Lindell Johnson (b. January 31, 1913, m. Pearl Smith, September 22, 1936. Issue: 1. Patsy, 2. Martha Jean, 3. Tony. 4. Garvin Johnson (b. January 31, 1913, m. Nadine Douglas, July 27, 1946. Issue: 1. Joan (b. 1949). 5. Mary Johnson (b. June 22, 1916, m. Melvin Hatley, June 15, 1937. Issue: 1. Bradley, 2. Joyce. 6. Kate Johnson (b. December 15, 1917, m. Dudley Goodman, April 10, 1937. Issue: 1. Mary, 2. Sue, 3. Linda, 4. Howard, 5. Jane. 7. Wayne Johnson (b. February 22, 1922, m. Joanne Soates, April 10, 1946. Issue: 1. Sandra, 2. Michael Wayne. 8. Blondell Johnson (b. January 26, 1925, m. Bernice Smothers, September 26, 1948. Issue: 1. Reba Nell, 2. Philip Stanley, 3. Brenda Kay. 9. Paul Johnson (b. June 25, 1928, M. Louise Cole, September 20, 1946. Issue: 1. David, 2. Mary Arlene. A 2 - 34 Robert Taylor Nunnery, born November 29, 1887, m. Laura Hatley, January 1, 1910. He died February 25, 1914. Nicknamed Bob. Issue: 1. Ruby (b. November 30, 1911, m. Ray Hooten, July 4, 1927. Issue: 1. Robert Millard (b. February 7, 1930, m. Mary Ann Adams, April 22, 1953. Issue: 1. a boy (b. February 7, 1954). 2. Rebecca Sudria Hooten (b. September 21, 1931, m. Lindsey Kinner Kee, November 27, 1948. Issue: 1. Joyce Dianne (b. August 12, 1949), 2. Gary Lynn (b. October 23, 1954). 3. Perry Lee Hale Hooten (b. February 13, 1935, m. Dorothy ?. Issue: 1. Danney Ray (b. February 20, 1956). 4. Bobby Ray (b. August 23, 1936-d. October 3, 1938). 5. Martha Laura (b. February 20, 1939). 6. Brenda Joyce (b. July 14, 1946). 7. Linda Loyce (b. July 14, 1946). 8. Jerry Coleman (b. July 13, 1947). They live at East St. Louise. THE HARDIN CEMETERY: This cemetery was located on the land of William Lee Hardin (1819-1895). His son, Little Willie Hardin was the first, it is said, of the family to be buried there. The grounds now belong to the Chalk Level Baptist Church. A list of those buried there follows: At Rest: William Hardin (1819-1895) Sweet is the rest our father takes, Till with Christ Jesus he awakes, to hear his Saviors welcome voice, bid his happy soul rejoice. Gone Home: Sarah E. Hardin (1835-1886) Asleep in Jesus: Mariah S. Capps (1810-1890). Mary Frances Hardin (1877-78): Weep not father and mother for me for I am waiting in glory for thee. At Rest: Monroe W. Hardin (d. 1908) Obediah Hardin (War of 1812 marker) (1794-1876) Mary G. Hardin (1797-1872) Joy Hardin (1919-1939) Nancy A. Hardin (1826-1872) John Boswell (1857-1880) Mary A. Bailey (1828-1878) Allen H. Boswell (1838-1891) Elijah Hardin (1831-1905) Nancy Ann Hardin (1843-1872) Elizabeth F. Hardin (1834-1887) William Hardin, Jr. (1852-54) John H. Hardin (1817-1834) Mary Ann Bailey (1859-1861) Sarahann O. Hardin (1818-1880) Artie J. Bailey (1864-1920) James A. W. Bailey (1861-1932) Rebecca H. Cooley (1838-1891) and others . . . . . Infant of Bob and Myrtie E. Smith Allen V. Hardin (1855-1942) Victoria B. Hardin (1855-1925) Martin L. Hardin (1831-1925) William Ruel Hardin (1833-1925) SHILOH CHURCH The family members buried at this place: William Hardin (1898-1925) Mary C. H. Nunnery (1861-1916) Charles D. Hardin (1904-1920) James H. Nunnery (1830-1911) Turnie M. Hardin (1906-1927) Joel Nunnery (1896-1931) Infant of J. & J. A. Bailey (1884) Eve Bell J. Nunnery (1881-1906) Lila Bailey (1885-1892) Bose J. Nunnery (1876-1896) Infants of M. H. & A. C. Halton Marshall A. Nunnery (1839-1909) * Ebenezer Gilbert moved to Wilson Co Tn 1810 and Obediah came with him as he was 15 or 16 years of age. He then went to fight in the war of 1812 during 1814 and then came home and married in 1816 in Wilson Co Tn, where Ebenezer Gilbert was the bondsman for the wedding. Submitted by Joe L. Hardin Information compiled by JKT Smith and Carolyn HARDIN Nickens Return to Early Settlers page. If you have suggestions and/ or additions for these pages, please feel free to write: Brian Nichols Please come back again soon! Happy Hunting!!! Return toTennessee Genealogy County page Return to top of Page Server space for the TNGenWeb Project is provided through the generosity of US Internet. The TNGenWeb Project makes no claims or estimates of the validity of the information submitted and reminds you that each new piece of information must be researched and proved, or disproved by the weight of evidence. You are welcome to copy information found on the Benton County TNGenWeb site for personal use, and share information with other researchers or genealogical organizations, but this information may not be sold or used in a commercial project without expressed permission. All material submitted by individuals for inclusion in this site remains their property. Copyright 1998 - 2002