Thomas J. Murrell was born in Dickson County, Tenn., January 11, 1825, the son of Thomas and Ella (Coen) Murrell, both of whom were natives of East Tennessee. The father was trustee of Dickson County for seventeen years. Our subject was first engaged in farming, which occupation he followed for twelve years, when he engaged in merchandising at Dickson, Tenn. He was married, December 28, 1845, to Mary Eliza Austin, who was also born in Tennessee. Their marriage has been blessed by ten children: Elenora, Mary Elizabeth (deceased), Missouri Alice, Thomas Franklin (deceased),James Samuel, Mary Franklin, George R. (deceased), William M., Lucinda E. (deceased) and Nannie Beulah. Our subject is a successful merchant and an influential citizen.