J. D. Martin was born in Dickson County, Tenn., July 13, 1835. His father was born in Virginia in 1810, and his mother in this State in 1812. The father served as sheriff of Dickson County for a number of years before the war. Our subject engaged in farming until the war, when he enlisted in Company E, Tenth Tennessee Cavalry, and served throughout the war, receiving only a flesh wound. On his return from the war he continued his farming, which occupation he has successfully followed up to the present. He was married April 8, 1858, to Amanda J. England, of this county. Four children have been born to them: Eunice A., Edward F., Hester L. and John E. His wife was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church South, and died May 18, 1868. Our subject was again married in December, 1868, to Matilda M. England. The result of this union is five children: Cora D., William M., Ludova J., Samuel J. Tilden, and Emily M. Our subject is a Democrat and a man of good standing in the community. He has been very successful and is considered, probably, one of the most substantial men of his district.