The Goodspeed Publishing Co., History of Tennessee, 1886
Biographical Sketches
Hardeman County
Transcribed by David Donahue

Albright, G. N. Anderson, Chamberlain H. Baird, Washington L. Barrett, J. A. & A. J. Biggs, Henry Black, Robert B. Blair, William J. Blalock, Jesse Bostwick, Robert Montrose Bryant, N. A. D. Cargile, F. M. Clark, Roger S. Cross, Napoleon B. Day, H. P. Dowdy, G. W. Drake, Edwin R. Duncan, C. A. Duncan, Stephen N. Durden, Wiley Durrett, David E. Elliotte, W. W. R., Jr. Farley, William W. Fentress, James Fentress, Francis Ferguson, Daniel A.

Ferguson, James P. Galloway, William D. Garrett, G. W. Gibson, George S. Hannah, Robert Harris, Orris Harriss, R. R. Higgs, Theopolis Hudson, Benjamin V. Ingram, George T. Jernigan, M. H. Johnson, William M. Jones, J. H. and E. M. Kahn, Isaac and Samuel Kearney, William R. Kent, Sallie R. Kinney, John W. Lax, Joseph L. Low, John T. Manson, J. A. McAnulty, David W. Mathews, Joseph A. May, William A. McCaskill, John E. Mercer, Thomas E McGlathery, Frank M..

Miller, J. R. Moore, Martin Moore, James A. Moorman, R. A. Morrow, John T. Moss, Bartley H. McKinnie, P. H. Mullen, Edward A. Neely, Rufus P. Neely, James J. Newsom, Thomas M. Norment, John S. Norment, William M. Norment, Jesse Nuckolls, William Nuckolls, John W. Nuckolls, Noah C. Parran, T. A. Pettigrew, James M. Pledge, W. A. Polk, Oscar B. Polk, Thomas Prewitt, Thomas E. Pulliam, T. P. Reynolds, William and Tabitha

Rhea, Abraham Robertson, John S. Sammons, Wiley W. Sasser, J. D. Sauls, J. D. Savage, Jefferson C. Scott, Reuben S. Shea, Thomas Simmons, Benjamin A. Smith, Robert W. Stewart, Elias B. Stuart, Thomas C. Tate, W. H. Walton, Robert H. Walton, Andrew J. White, Alexander Whitley, Rufus D. Wilson, John A. Wilson, J. W. Wilkes, J. W. Wood, Charles Woods, John D. Wright, R. M. Wynne, Hiram B. Yopp, Alex F.

 

G. N. Albright

        G. N. Albright, of the well known firm of Edwards & Albright, merchants and millers of Cedar Chapel, was born February 14, 1840, in North Carolina, where his parents also were born, raised and wedded. His father, James R., was a merchant in his early life, and afterward a farmer; was successful in both. For twenty years he was a magistrate. Previous to the war he was a Whig, and then a Democrat. He married Miss Sallie Albright, by whom he had five sons and one daughter. Both were earnest and respected members of the Methodist Church. They lived to a good old age, and were laid to rest in their native State when their lives were spent. Our subject, G. N., is of German-Irish descent; his ancestors came from Pennsylvania. He was raised on a farm, and received a liberal education. In 1861 he volunteered in Company F, of the Sixth North Carolina, Confederate troops. For about three years he served as second heutenant. He received a serious wound at the battle of Frederieksimrg, disabling him for seven months. At Rappahannock Station, Va., he was captured and held prisoner for eighteen months, being confined at various points — first at Johnson’s Island, then Point Lookout, Fort Delaware, Morris Island, Fort Pulaski — and back to Fort Delaware where he was released. For forty-two days he was fed on bread and water. This was the work of retaliation. In 1865 he came to West Tennessee, which has since been his home. The same year he married Barbara E. Thompson, who died in 1877. She was the mother of two sons and three daugliters and a devout member of the Presbyterian Church. In 1879 Mr. Albriglit wedded Miss Mollie Walden, by whom he has one son. He belongs to the Presbyterian Church and Mrs. Albriglit to the Methodist. For a number of years he was engaged in farming and operating a sawmill; in 1886 he embarked in the present busiliess. He has been quite successful in life, owns 200 acres in Fayette County. He is an industrious upright man, a worthy citizen and a stanch Democrat.

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Chamberlain H. Anderson

        Hon. Chamberlain H. Anderson, present chairman of the county court of Hardeinan County, was born in Chesterfield County, Va., June 3, 1820. He is the oldest of a family of twelve children born to Benjamin B. and Nancy H. (Dance) Anderson, both natives of the same State and county as that in which C. H. was born. They came to Hardeman County in 1835, settling ten miles south of Bolivar, where they spent the remainder of their lives. Both were members of the Missionary Baptist Church. The father was of English descent, born in 1792, a millwright who thoroughly understood the business; a Whig in politics. He took part in the war of 1812 and died in 1848. The mother was born in 1793, and departed this life in 1846. The subject of our sketch was educated in an old field school. He remained at home assisting his father in the mill and on the farm, until he was twenty-five years of age. In 1845 he was united in wedlock to Miss Elizabeth W. Perry, who was born in 1823. Their union was blessed with six children, four of whom are living, one son and three daughters. Mrs. C. H. Anderson died in 1884, a true Christian woman and esteemed member of the Methodist Church. Mr. Anderson is a member of the old Presbyterian Church. He is a life-long Democrat. He has been a magistrate for about forty-five years; served as register of Hardeman county ten years, and chairman of the county court about eight years. In 1879 he represented his district, consisting of Hardeman and Madison Counties, in the State Senate. For fifty-one years he has been a resident of the county.

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Washington L. Baird

        Washington L. Baird, M. D., is a prominent physician of Hickory Valley, a native of Fayette County, Teun., born April 16, 1839, the sixth of eight children born to Capt. Charles and Nancy T. (Robards) Baird, who were both of Scotch-Irish descent The father was a native of North Carolina, born July 16, 1797, and in early life came with his parents to Robertson County, Tenn. He was a Democrat in politics, for a number of years was captain of the State militia and a member of Primitive Baptist Church. His death occurred in Fayette County February 11, 1871. The mother was a native of Tennessee, born March 7. 1807; she was a member of the Primitive Baptist Church and died in Fayette County, September 17, 1867. Washington L. received a good education in youth and having selected the medical profession, attended lectures at the Memphis Medical College, In 1860 he began the practice of his profession with an elder brother in Dallas County, Ark., remaining there one year, when he returned to Tennessee and began practicing in Springfield. September 26, 1861, Dr. Baird married Miss Callie V. Cunningham, a native of Davidson County, born in 1842, and to them have been born six children, one son deceased. In the spring of 1862 he moved to Dallas County, Ark., where he practiced medicine until the fall of 1863 when he enlisted as a private of volunteers and remained with Maj. Gen. Holmes one year. The entire company to which he belonged was captured, but he escaped capture while on duty as quartermaster. He then came to Tennessee and joined Gen. Forrest and remained with him until the close of the war. He then returned to Fayette County, remaining a short time with his father; then returned to Arkansas, for two years; then returned to Tennessee and after practicing at different points, settled in Hickory Valley where he has since remained. Dr. Baird has two married sisters whose husbands are distinguished men: Lamiza A., whose husband is Judge Joseph C. Stark of Springfield, Robertson County, and Emma H., whose husband is Louis T. Cobb, now a member of the State Legislature and represents the Twelfth Senatorial District. Dr. Baird is a Democrat in politics and a prominent member of the Methodist Episcopal Church which he has served as recording steward seven years.

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J. A. and A. J. Barrett

        J. A. and A. J. Barrett, the proprietors of a prominent dry goods store of Bolivar, are natives of Hardeman County. Their parents, John and Sauna (Birkhead) Barrett, were born in North Carohnia and came to West Tennessee when small with their parents, who were among the very early settlers. After marriage Mr. Barrett located in Hardeman County; was one of the best known and most enterprising agriculturists in the section. He belonged to no church. He was a Democrat. His career ended in 1885. Mrs. Barrett, who is still living, is a devout member of the Methodist Church; she has been the mother of nine children — five sons and four daughters. Three of the boys, Anderson, Thomas and Kindred, served in the Confede rate Army. The second, after passing safely through all the dangers and hardships of four years’ warfare, met a sad and shocking death. He was killed by the "Home Guards," who mistook him for a man for whom they were lying in waiting. J. A., the senior member of the firm, was born March 12, 1852. He received a good education in the common schools. When about eighteen years of age he began the mercantile business as salesman. Failing in health he went west, and spent about four years in roaming. In 1880 he returned to Bolivar greatly improved, and sold goods in the house which he now occupies. In 1885 the existing partnership, under the name of Barrett Bros., was formed. A. J., the junior member, was born March 12, 1857. His early education was acquired in the common schools; afterward he attended the Henderson High School and Conference School at Montezuma. After his return he spent four years as a clerk, two years as traveling salesman and six years in Arkansas. Since 1885 he has been engaged with his brother as above stated. The Barrett brothers are warm Democrats, and wide-awake, accommodating, able, businessmen. They are having a flourishing trade. Their ancestors were of Scotch-Irish extraction.

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Henry Biggs

        Dr. Henry Biggs, a resident and practicing physician of Grand Junction, was born August 9, 1822, in Gibson County, Tennessee. His parents were Luke and M. (Bennett) Biggs, both natives of North Carolina. The father was of English descent, born in 1795; the mother was of English-Irish origin, born in 1798. They immigrated to Stewart County, Tenn., in 1819, and a year later to Gibson County, where the father departed this life in 1858, and the mother in 1859. The subject of this sketch was raised and worked on his father’s farm until nineteen years of age, when he engaged in the same occupation for himself. A year later he became an overseer, and in 1845 began the study of medicine under tuition of Dr. A. Biggs, a resident of Arkansas. He entered the Botanical Medical College at Memphis, Tenn., in 1847, graduating in 1849. He immediately began the practice of his profession at La Grange, Tenn. In 1850 he went to California, where for seven months he was interested in mining. About that time cholera became epidemic in Sacramento City, whither the brave doctor went, practicing in a private hospital on Jay Street. After the disappearance of the disease he returned to La Grange, receiving an extensive patronage. In 1853 he entered the Eclectic Medical College at Philadelphia, Penn., receiving a diploma the next year. Again he went to La Grange, where he remained ten years, and met with great success. After a year’s practice in Memphis he engaged in the drug business in La Grange, where he was also interested in molding and farming, together with his profession. In 1868 he closed out his business, and in 1869 went to New York and matriculated in the Bellevue Hospital Medical College one term. During this time he visited all the seats of medical progress in that city. He returned to Memphis, practicing for one year. His office was on Main Street. In 1871 he went to La Grange; one year later to Saulsbury, where he remained until 1875, when he located at present place of residence, where he has had a large and profitable practice, in connection with which he is interested in agriculture. He is a good and substantial citizen. Although he has met with several financial misfortunes, he is now in easy circumstances, all made by his own efforts. He is a Republican. In 1869 he was elected to the State Legislature to fill an unexpired term. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and in good standing with the Masonic lodge, at La Grange. The Doctor was united in marriage in March, 1855, to Mrs. Cassandra Nevels. This union resulted in the birth of James William, now a resident of Arkansas. Mrs. Biggs died, and in 1873 the Doctor united with Julia W. Mason, of Georgia. There is no issue.

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Robert R. Black

         Robert R. Black, farmer of Hardeinan County, is a native of South Carolina, born October 10, 1831, the third of nine children born to Amos and Lucy (Foster) Black, both natives of South Carolina. They were married in South Carolina in about the year 1823, and in 1836 they immigrated to Tennessee and settled in Madison County, where they lived seventeen years. In 1853 they moved to Hardeman County and there spent the remainder of their days. The father was of Irish descent, born in 1804. He was a Democrat in politics, a tiller of the soil by occupation, and a prominent member of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church, and died in Hardeman County in September, 1877. The mother’s ancestors came from England; she was born about the year 1806, was a member of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church and died March 23, 1857, in Hardeman County. Robert R. received a good education in youth and in early life began farming. At five years of age he came with his parents to Tennessee and has ever since made it his home. In 1853 he came to Hardeman County and after living at different places, in 1865 he purchased the farm where he now resides. Mr. Black began life poor but by close application to business, and industry and ec6nomy has secured a fair portion of this world’s goods, owning 800 acres of good land in his county, and a water grist-mill and cotton-gin on Mill Creek. May 10, 1855, he married Miss Ann E. Toone, a native of Hardeman County, born February 5. 1839, and to them have been born six sons, five now living. Mr. Black is a Democrat and he and wife are members of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church.

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William J. Blair

        William J. Blair, farmer and magistrate of Hardeman County, is a native of South Carolina, born October 19, 1836, the second in a family of twelve children born to Thomas and Editha (Black) Blair. The parents were married in Southi Carolina about 1831 or 1832 and in 1836 immigrated to Tennessee and settled in Madison County, where they lived some time when they came to Hardeman County. The father was a native of Southi Carolina, born in 1808 of Scotch-Irish descent, and was a Democrat in politics and a farmer by occupation. He was a member of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church, of which he was elder for a number of years. He died in Madison County in 1872. The mother was also a native of.South Carolina and it is thought her ancestors came from Germany. She was born about the year 1810 and died in Hardeman County in 1866 a worthy member of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. William J. has made farming his principal occupation in life but at one time was engaged in schoolteaching. He was reared in Madison County but in 1855 moved to McNairy County where he lived four years, when he immigrated to Rusk County, Tex., where his wife died. He remained there one year and in 1860 returned to Tennessee and in 1863 enlisted in Company C, Seventh Tennessee Regiment Mounted Infantry, under Gen. Forrest’s command and remained with him until the fall of 1864, when he was severely wounded at Collierville, Tenn. He was left near Salem. Miss., with a family named Powell who tenderly cared for him until he recovered. After a partial recovery he returned home and was immediately captured by the Federal forces and was sent as a prisoner of war to Camp Chase, Ohio, but was finally paroled at Vicksburg in the spring of 1865. He then returned home and for eight years was engaged in teaching school. In 1870 he purchased the farm where he now hives and has been successful in acquiring a competency of this world’s goods, owning 500 acres of good land. Mr. Blair has been three times married. His first wife was Miss Nancy Suggs whom he married February 8, 1854. She was a native of North Carolimia, a member of the Missionary Baptist Church and died July 18, 1860, the mother of two children. December 23, 1868, he married Miss Elizabeth Steward, a native of Madison County, and a member of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. She died in March, 1873. They were the parents of one daughter. October 11, the same year, Mr. Blair married Miss Minerva Steward, a sister of his second wife and to them have been born four children. He is a Democrat in politics and has served his county as deputy sheriff. Mr. and Mrs. Blair are members of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church.

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Jesse Blalock

        Jesse Blalock, planter, of Hardeman County, is a native of Granville County, N.C., born October 5, 1814, son of William and Katie (Cash) Blalock. The parents were natives of North Carolina, and there lived and died both in the same year. When Jesse was an infant he was left with strangers, but through his own efforts secured a good practical education, and was bound out to J. W. Philpott, who died before our subject reached his majority, and not receiving any compensation for all his years of hard work Mr. Blalock was left with nothing but an honest heart and name, and an ambition that prompted him to industry and labor. In May, 1833, he married Miss Rosana Lee, a native of North Carolina, born October 5, 1812. This was a happy union for forty years and the wife died October 5, 1873. In 1836 Mr. Blalock purchased a little farm near where he now lives, where he remained a short time, then moved to Fayette County, near New Castle, where he lived a short time and after living in different places until December, 1850, he then moved where he now lives, twelve miles west of Bolivar. He now owns 500 acres of good land under a good state of cultivation. To his first marriage ten children were born, nine of whom lived to be grown. July 21, 1874, he married for his second wife Miss Bettie Hudson, a native of Hardeman County, born May 20, 1850, and to them have been born two daughters: Pauline, born August 31, 1875, and died September 30, 1877, and Annie May, born November 19, 1877. In politics Mr. Blalock is a stanch Democrat, and he and wife are prominent members of the Methodist Episcopal Church South, and to the interest of which he is a very liberal contributor.

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Robert Montrose Bostwick

        Robert Montrose Bostwick was born near Charlotte, N.C., January 21, 1834, the youngest child and fifth son of William Merida and Caroline (Graham) Bostwick. Their family consisted of five sons and two daughters. William was born in South Carolina, and as he died while his children were quite small but little is known of the Bostwick connection. He married Miss Graham near Charlotte, Mecklenburg Co., N.C. She was a daughter of Gen. George Graham, who was born December, 1757, in Chester County, Penn. He was a son of James Graham (great-grandfather to H. M.), who at the age of eighteen came from the north of Carlington Bay, County Down, Ireland, about the year 1733. According to a family tradition James was a descendant of a close kinsman and follower of the fortunes and disasters of the celebrated Montrose who took a conspicuous part in the civil wars of Scotland during the reign of Charles I. When the English Army prevailed in Scotland Montrose fled to Holland, and his adherents (among whom was a clan of the Grahams) passed over into the North of Ireland, where many of the descendants now reside. James Graham died, leaving his widow with several young children. She moved to Mecklenburg County, N.C., when George was but ten years of age. He received such education as was common to the youth of that period. The college at Charlotte, now known as the Davidson College, was in its zenith. George attended the first public meetings held in Charlotte, at the beginning of the Revolutionary war. He was too young to have a voice in the councils, but was deeply interested. He was in attendance May 20, 1775, when independence was declared, an official copy of which was sent to Congress by Capt. James Jack. In the summer and autumn of 1776 George served under command of Gen. Rutherford, in the campaign against the Cherokee Indians. While in the Nation he was one of the party selected to pursue Scott and Hicks, two British traders, who lived there and were believed to have instigated the Indians to war. The early part of 1780 he served in a campaign as heutenant, under Maj. John Sharpe, of Tennessee, who was his captain. They had the intrenchments made and the abatis placed before Charleston ere the town was besieged. Their term of service expired and they were relieved by another detachment of militia only two days prior to the time the city was invested. After Buford’s defeat, when Mecklenburg became the frontier and the men were almost continually under arms, Lieut. George Graham was present at every call of his superiors. He was under Gen. Rutherford’s command at the battle of Ramsoms, August 6, 1780. He was lieutenant of a company under command of Capt. James Knox, at the battle of Hanging Rock. He had command of a detachment of infantry who accompanied Col. Davis’ cavalry in the attack on a party of Tories at Nahub’s plantation at Naxhaw a few days previous to the arrival of the British at Charlotte. When they entered that place on the 26th of September, 1780, Capt. James Thomson, George Graham and others went with Gen. Davidson and the artillery of Phifer’s. Finding in a day or two, that the enemy was not advancing and probably would continue in that place for some time, they, by their general’s permission returned. Being well acquainted with the country, collected a party numbering fourteen, and October 3 defeated Maj. Doyle, who commanded a foraging party of upward of 500 at McIntyre’s, on the Beatties Ford road. After Tarleton’s defeat, when Lord Cornwallis was pursuing Gen. Morgan, George Graham joined our cavalry as a volunteer on February 1, 1781; was in the battle of Cowan’s Ford, where Gen. Davidson met his death. In the spring of same year George was appointed adjutant of a regiment called State troops, raised by South Carolina for the period of ten months, and under command of Gen. Sumter. While in this service, George was in numerous skirmishes with the British and Tories. He was at the taking of Orangeburg, and with the State troops and Washington cavalry when they were detached to attend the movements of Lord Rawdon when on his way to relieve Ninety-six. Three or four days before he arrived at that place and when Gen. Greene retired, he covered his retreat. In the military department, shortly after the Revolutionary war, George Graham was appointed major of the First Regiment of Mecklenburg troops, and afterward rose through the different offices until he was promoted to rank of major-general of the Fourth Division of both Carolinas’ militia, which he held until 1825. In 1784 he was united in marriage to Miss Cathay, by whom he had two sons and three daughters. One son died when young, and the other after reaching manhood. The eldest daughter, Mary Graham, married George Caruth. The second daughter wedded William Merida Bostwick, the third daughter became the wife of William McCree, of Mecklenburg, N.C. Mrs. Graham died in 1798, and George afterward married Mrs. William Potts, of Providence. There was no issue.

        In 1786 Mr. Graham was elected sheriff of Mecklenburg County, and continued in that office until 1794. The following year he was elected senator, to represent the county in the General Assembly. He was re-elected annually, almost without opposition until 1801, when he received the appointment of clerk of the supreme court, retaining that office until 1825, when failing health forced him to resign. The best evidence of the high opinion entertained for this worthy man’s integrity, patriotism and honor, was the varied and responsible offices of trust which he was for so many years called upon to fill. He discharged his numerous and laborious duties with distinction, fidelity and satisfaction to all. He was a brother of Gen. Joseph Graham, who was the father of William A. Graham, governor at one time of North Carolina, and afterward candidate for Vice-President of the United States on the ticket with Winfield Scott. Mrs. Stonewall Jackson was the daughter of Mr. Morrison, a Presbyterian minister of eminence, and the granddaughter of Gen. Joseph Graham. The subject of this sketch, Robert Montrose Bostwick, emigrated with his Barents from Mecklenburg County, N.C., in 1837, to Marshall County, Miss., where he resided until a few years after the death of his parents, which occurred about 1839 and 1840. He began the study of medicine under the instruction of his brother-in-law, Dr. N.C. Whitlow, when about the age of nineteen. He attended the medical lectures at the University of Louisville, Ky., the fall and winter of 1855-56 and 1856-57, graduating in the spring of the latter year. For about one year he practiced his profession in North Mississippi, then located at Hickory Valley, Hardeman Co., Tenn., where he had an extensive practice until the beginning of the late civil war. He entered the One Hundred and Fifty-fourth Senior Regiment of Tennessee Volunteers, under command of Gen. Preston Smith. Dr. Bostwick acted as assistant surgeon until 1864, at which time he received his commission for the same, and remained in that capacity until the close of the war. He was wounded at Lovejoy Station, Ga. After the restoration of peace he resumed his practice at Saulsbury, of which place he is still an esteemed citizen. January 21, 1869, he was united in wedlock to Mrs. Fannie Guy Oates, who by her former marriage had two sons: William Leroy and Martin Guy Oates. To Mr. and Mrs. Bostwick one son and three daughters were born: Robert Graham, whose birth occurred March 26, 1870; Marie Louise, born October 9, 1873; Luta Paulina, born September 11, 1876, and Fannie Guy, born March 9, 1878, died February 9, 1887. Dr. Bostwick has been most successful in his practice, receiving an extensive and lucrative patronage. He is universally popular and recognized as one of the most skillful and eminent practitioners in the county. He is an active and consistent member of the Presbyterian Church (Old School). He is prominently connected with the Masonic fraternity, K. of H. and also with the K. & L. of H. He is a Democrat and self-made man. Mrs. Bostwick is the third daughter of Martin Winston Guy (dec’d), who inherited Scotch-Irish blood from his mother and English from his father, whose ancestors first settled in Pennsylvania. The mother’s maiden name was Esther Sharpe. Martin was born July 25, 1803, in Statesville, Iredell Co., N.C. He was the third son of Dr. Joseph A. Guy, who emigrated from North Carolina to Franklin County, Ala., which was then known as the Cherokee Nation. Here the Doctor died. He was a prominent physician and surgeon of his time. His wife survived him several years, dying at the advanced age of eighty-two. Their family consisted of five sons and four daughters. Martin W. Guy married Hester Ann Hardy December 9, 1829, near Tuscumbia, Franklin Co., Ala. To them were born three sons and four daughters. of whom only two are living, and are residents of the State. Mrs. Hester (Hardy) Guy died August 15, 1847, at the age of thirty-two years. Six of her children were living at that time. Her mother’s maiden name was Sheppard, a lady of English origin. Martin W., while a resident of Alabama, was for a numbers of years Sheriff of Franklin County; it was a responsible and lucrative position, and he filled it with fidelity to his country and distinction to himself. He left the office with a reputation for integrity which has been equaled by few of his successors, and surpassed by none. In 1836 he moved to Hardeman County, Tenn., and purchased land from an Indian whose name was Isaac Love. Mr. Guy was one of the pioneers. By his industry and enterprise contributed greatly to the development of the country. His occupation was that of a farmer, which calling he followed until infirmities and advanced age rendered him unable to discharge the numerous and active duties of an agricultural life. He was always in sympathy with the tillers of the soil, by whom he was highly regarded. He succeeded in amassing a very comfortable estate from the natural resources of the farm. He was reared by a Christian mother, who imparted to him the teachings of the Old School Presbyterian Church, of which she was a devout member, and which has been the prevailing religious sentiment of the family. Politically he was a Whig, and supporter of John Bell when he was presidential candidate in 1860. Mr. Guy was a strong Union man, strenuously opposed to the secession of the States. Believing it to be his duty to his country, posterity and himself, he firmly adhered to his convictions, though ever in sympathy with the unfortunate people of the South. He was a patriot more than a partisan. Living as he did in a section which was continually disputed ground between the contending armies, finding his property greatly damaged and his life endangered, he sought refuge within the limits of the city of Memphis, where he remained until the termination of the war. He then returned to his farm. He was one of the twelve chosen men who composed the first United States grand jury of the Federal court, which assembled in Memphis. This body was instructed to find a true bill against Gen. N. B. Forrest for treason against the Government. Col. Guy opposed this proceeding with all the vehemence of his nature. He was denounced by Judge Trigg as a traitor. The Colonel asked the privilege of being allowed to write his defense against the charge The request was granted, and the paper read before the Federal court, giving in detail his reasons. He then begged to be relieved and was, after receiving strong terms of condemnation from the judge, who in subsequent years realized his own error and as an honorable and just man, asked pardon of Col. Guy, assuring him of the high regard for him and his decision. The Colonel died in Memphis, April 21, 1885, in his eighty-second year. The article of defense above mentioned, and which had been carefully preserved for twenty years, was found after his death among his papers, with the special request that it should be published in the Memphis Appeal. It was as follows:

        A Personal Vindication of Martin W. Guy, and the Reason Why During the War He Refused to Serve on a United States Grand Jury, which Found a True Bill Against the Late Gen. N. B. Forrest for Treason. In discharge of the duties incumbent upon me as one of the grand jurors of this district, I am asked by my fellow jurors to concur with them in finding a true bill of indictment for Tennessee against Maj. Gen. N. B. Forrest of the Confederate Army, as he is notoriously in arms in defense of the Southern Confederacy and very recently has been in this county and a portion of the troops have penetrated this town, captured prisoners and made war upon the troops of the United States. This forms a strong and striking case, requiring an indictment for treason in the opinion of my fellow jurors. I have given this subject all the consideration of which I am capable, with an anxious desire to do my duty. The presiding judge in his charge to the jury, uses this language: "In making this diligent inquiry, your highest aim within the sphere of the duties assigned you, should be simply to promote the end of public justice." With this highest aim to promote public justice, I cannot concur with my fellow jurors for the following reasons: First, the Government of the United States is a voluntary compact between sovereign, equal and independent States, forming a compact for certain specified limited purposes. This compact, or partnership, is the constitution of the United States. In 1861 a portion of the States to this Federal compact, each in its sovereign capacity withdrew from the Federal Union and created another union and government called Confederate States, the States still adhering to the old Union called United States, denying the power and right of the seceding or withdrawing States to withdraw and form a separate Confederacy. As there is no umpire to decide this high question peaceably, the States calling themselves United States have resorted to umpire of the sword, to compel the seceding States to return to the old compact. There is no warrant in the constitution for making war upon sovereign States. If the published debates of the framers of the constitution are to throw any light upon the subject, the power of the Federal Government to make war upon a sovereign State is expressly and emphatically repudiated. Whether the remaining States to the old compact have a right to make war on the seceding States or not, they are, nevertheless, making war on the seceding States. The seceding States under their new form of government, Confederate States, are defending themselves against the war made upon them by the States still adhering to the old compact. With this view of the case I am not prepared to say that Maj. Gen. N. B. Forrest is making war upon the United States. He is a citizen of one of the seceding States. They claim they have a right to secede; that they have seceded and made another government, and that they are simply acting in self-defense, not making an aggressive war on the States called the United States. I am not prepared to say whether they are right or not. Second, I am a citizen of the State of Tennessee. The citizens of the State of Tennessee against my vote, against my wishes, against my judgment, against my acts (while it was an open question, I had a right to vote and act) by an overwhelming majority voted to secede from the old confederation and join the new. I cannot separate myself from my State, if I would. Against my judgment they have withdrawn from the old Union. A majority of its citizens determined to belong to the new union, that is an impossibility! The war has been raging for more than three years with varying success. After more than three years’ war, I have no evidence before me that a majority or even a tenth part of the citizens desire to return to the old Union. The facts would seem to justify a different conclusion. Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville and perhaps two or three communities in East Tennessee are under the control of Federal authorities. Such places are held by the arms of the Federal Government, while all the balance of the States are in sentiment with them, and the greater portion of the fighting population is in arms against them. This Federal judicial district embraces all of West Tennessee, while in fact and in truth its jurisdiction and processes would not be acknowledged and could not be enforced over and beyond the corporate limits of the town of Memphis, or at least outside of the limits of the Federal pickets, about three miles square. The construction of this grand jury is significant. The law contemplated that they should be selected from different counties, while in truth and in fact they are all from the town of Memphis. With these facts before me, with war raging over the length and breadth of the land, I am not prepared to join in bills of indictments against my fellow citizens of Tennessee and arraign them for treason and have them tried for their lives. They have as much right to their opinions as I have to mine. I differ with them as to the policy of their acts. But who is to decide which is right and who is wrong? I cannot pronounce them traitors. The line of separation between traitors and patriots is almost invisible. It depends upon success. Washington, Hancock and other Revolutionary fathers were called traitors. After seven years of war they succeeded, and in all coming time they will be called patriots, notwithstanding they rebelled against their government. Third, the presiding judge, with much emphasis, warns us that we are public functionaries, standing between the accuser and the accused; that we are the great security to the citizen against unfounded and vindictive prosecution, and the grand-jury room, therefore, is no place for the exhibition of personal animosities, or the gratification of individual malice. The moment that these, and less seductive influences of fear, favor or affection are permitted to invade the sanctity of the jury-room, grand juries cease to answer the purpose of their institution and become instruments of oppression and wrong. If the sage suggestions are necessary in peace, how potent they become in times like these, "when" (to use the language of the Court) "the whole country has become the victim of a delirium which strikes at the foundation of our political organization.

        Grand jurors are but men, liable to err, as other mortals. Can they — when the country is deluged with blood, when father is arrayed against son, and brother against brother, when the whole country is seized with delirium — calmly, philosophically and wisely lift themselves against the surging passions of the hour, and rightfully discharge these duties to themselves, their God and their countrymen? Fourth, I cannot believe we shall promote the highest aim of our duties, the end of public justice, by holding courts and instituting charges against those who differ with us in opinions. If we commence wholesale charges and indictments for treason against all those who are opposed to us, in retaliation they will commence the same against those who think as we do throughout the South — these many thousand wise and good union loving men, who deeply deplore the course which the Southern States have thought proper to pursue, and with uplifted hands are imploring God Almighty for a return to union and peace. Shall we commence here a system which will certainly involve these noble patriots in speedy and certain destruction? The war is not yet ended. The man don’t live who can see through it, or when or how it is to end. We are told the race is not always to the swift, nor the battle to the strong! The slightest incidents in life control the destinies of states, empires and individuals. No man living can tell what to-morrow will bring forth. The incidents of war may drive the Federal authorities out of Tennessee. If we sit here, hatch charges against our fellow men, what becomes of us in turn? Fifth, in view of all things, while the land is raging with delirium, I cannot believe we shall subserve the ends of public justice by instituting terrible inquisitions and indictments against our fellow citizens. Especially is it important that we desist at this time. A presidential election will come on before the people of the United States in less than sixty days. The war is now working to points beyond which, in the opinion of many, it cannot much further go. Out of these may come peace, union, liberty, fraternity. Is it wise to stir up strife when all good lovers of mankind hope that strife shall cease? If these things must be done, if the guilty must be punished, in the name of all that is holy, let us wait until the angry passions and delirium of the hour shall cease, and men selected from all parts of the judicial circuit come together, and unmoved by prejudice, passion, hatred, fear or revenge, calmly weigh these matters of high import and act rightly. Sixth, we have recognized Maj.-Gen. Forrest, the Confederate, even men on the high seas termed pirates and belligerents. Can we recognize them as belligerents and then institute these proceedings against them? Had Gen. Forrest been captured, would we have held him prisoner and tried him for treason, or would we have held him a prisoner of war, finally exchanged him, and turned him loose to come up against, us in arms? Seventh, may I now ask that you, Mr. Foreman, make known to the court my position, and let my position be filled by another more worthy and competent. I, since sitting in your body, have suffered much bodily pain, as I am much afflicted. If I may be permitted to retire by leave of the court, I shall carry with me no unkind feelings toward any member of this jury; but, on the other hand, I believe you to be gentlemen who have a high regard and desire to promote what you think the best interest of the State, and our common country. For the officers comprising this grand jury, from my limited acquaintance, in the discharge of your duties, I entertain the most profound respect, and I must say a word in behalf of my worthy friend and old countryman from Hardeman County. I have known him well for the last twenty-five years. A nobler or more honorable heart God never put into man than he possesses. A friend to the widow and orphans, the poor man in affliction or in prison, or an outcast, has ever found Pitser Miller a friend. The friendless he was always desirous to relieve and comfort and distress. May all such noble men live to a ripe old age, as the benefactors of our country. Gentlemen, I am now in your hands; I hope that you will have charity enough in your souls. Although you may think I am in error, if so then I am honorably so, so help me God.

MARTIN W. GUY.

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N. A. D. Bryant

        Rev. N. A. D. Bryant was born in Moore County, N.C., in 1816, in which State his father, Elisha Bryant, was born in 1792. The Bryants, or Bryan as the name originally was called, are among the oldest and most honored families in the South. They are of Welsh origin; the ancestors immigrated to America about 1675, and settled on the Roanoke River, in North Carolina and Virginia. They are connected by marriage and intermarriage with the Whitfields and Boones; Daniel Boone, of historical fame, being a member of the latter mentioned family. The grandfather, Michael Bryant, about 1785 visited Moore County, N.C., where he wedded Miss Leah Graham, a woman of rare beauty and fine attainments. The subject of this sketch, in company with an older brother, M. A. Bryant, who was a civil engineer, came to Montgomery, Tenn., in 1837. During a portion of that and the ensuing year, they both worked on a farm, the brother surveying, and our subject teaching school. In 1839 they went to Arkansas, visiting the famous "fountains of health," the Hot Springs. At that day no elegant hotel or palatial bath house was to be seen; the only improvement was five rude pole pens, partly covered, and one spring was boxed with rough boards, at the base of the hill. A few miles northwest, on Cane Creek, they found a colony of people, some of whom had been there for forty years. Our subject taught, on the Sabine River; M. A. was employed at Iron Sulphur Springs, both receiving large salaries. It soon became known that the Rev. N. A. D. was licensed to preach the gospel; and on Cane Creek, beneath a large brush arbor, the whole colony assembled to hear the maiden sermon of the youthful and earnest "boy preacher." So gratified were the people, that by their unanimous request he delivered two more sermons later on. He returned to Tennessee, and entered the traveling ministry of the Methodist Episcopal Church. At the annual conference, he was put on the North Alabama Circuit His first appointment was at Decatur, the seat of wealth and refinement. He was met in that large and elegant house of worship, by a vast and cultivated congregation, all anxious to hear the young, new minister. He disarmed the critic, and made such an impression upon his listeners, and so widespread became his reputation for sincerity and eloquence, that whenever it became known that he would fill the pulpit, he was greeted by an enthusiastic and mighty assemblage. Mr. Bryant is one of the most able and influential ministers of the Methodist Church. He is of so earnest, firm and yet sympathetic a nature, that he has the power of calling back to the fold the most hardened sinner, of comforting the afflicted, and guiding the young into the paths of truth and morality. In 1845 our subject was united in marriage to Susan E. Joshin, of Dickson County, Tenn., a granddaughter of Benjamin Joslin of Davidson County. The fruits of this union was John Clarke, who died in infancy; William S., now a resident of Hardeman County; Thomas Lafayette, a well known divine, now living in Texas, and James Hart, who is connected with the United States mail service in Cincinnati. In 1854 Mrs. Bryant departed this life at Durhamville, Tenn. Mr. Bryant, in 1856, wedded Miss Virginia C. Ingram, a daughter of the late W. P. Ingram of Hardeman County. To this marriage five children were born: Nannie Taylor, wife of Rev. A. T. Hendrix, now in Hopkins County, Tex.; Charles Wesley, also resident of same State and county; Mattie McNeil, who died in infancy; Joseph Johnson, living at home, and Sue Idella, who is in Texas, with Mrs. Hendrix. In 1855 Mr. Bryant purchased the Person farm, in Hardeman County, where, in 1857, he moved his family this being the first time that wife, children, servants and chattels were all in one place. Two years later Mr. Bryant bought the homestead of the late Rev. D. W. Hullenn. This is a beautiful place, highly cultivated and improved, in a healthful locality in sight of Grand Junction. January 1, 1860, the family took possession of their new home, where they have since resided. In 1870 Mr. Bryant formally withdrew from the traveling ministry, since which time he has been a local minister, having no special pastorate. In connection with the religious duties, he has been engaged in agricultural pursuits. In 1883 he made an extensive tour through Texas, and in 1885, accompanied by Mrs. Bryant and their infant child, again visited the Lone Star State.

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F. M. Cargile

        F. M. Cargile, a resident and leading merchant of Saulsbury, was born June 2, 1832, in South Carolina, of which State his parents were also natives. The father, James Cargile, was of Scotch descent. He immigrated to Alabama in 1832, from there to Mississippi in 1841, and to Texas in 1858, where he died in 1884; and the mother, Annie (Parsons) Cargile, in 1872. Our subject worked on his father’s farm until he attained his majority, when he began agricultural pursuits on his own responsibility, so continuing in a floul’ishing condition until the outbreak of the war. He entered the Confederate service as a private, July, 1861, in the Twenty-second Tennessee Infantry. At the reorganization he was transferred to the Twelfth Tennessee Infantry, and was elected first lieutenant, which rank he held during the remainder of the service. July 22, 1864, at Atlanta, Ga., he was shot through the upper portion of the head, disabling him from further duty. With one exception, he participated in every engagement in which his company was drawn. The South had not a braver or more gallant soldier. After the war and entire recovery from his wound, he resumed farming. In 1872 he embarked in general merchandising and the cattle business at Saulsbury, where he has been very prosperous. He is a self-made, enterprising and esteemed man. He began life after the war with nothing but a will of iron and ability. By industry and judicious management he has accumulated considerable property and means. He is a sincere member of the Missionary Baptist Church, the Masonic order and K. of H.; is also a stanch Democrat. December 18, 1858, he married Mary F., daughter of Wm. B. H. and Elizabeth Gatlin. To Mr. and Mrs. Cargile five children were born: James Robert, Ruth, Elizabeth (died December, 1872), Ida and Francis Marion.

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Roger S. Clark

        Roger S. Clark, a resident and prosperous merchant of Saulsbury, was born July 22, 1849, in Hardeman County. His parents were Jackson and Sallie (Lyle) Clark. The father was born January, 1824, in Alabama, and immigrated to Tennessee at an early day, locating near Saulsbury, where he resided until his death, which occurred December 8, 1857. The mother was born April 15, 1824, in North Carolina. She is beloved by all who know her and is still living with her son, our subject. The grandfather, Cornelius Clark, was born in 1763, and is supposed to have left Scotland and settled in Georgia when a comparatively young man. He took a prominent part in the war of 1812. The exact position he held is not known, but was evidently an officer of high rank. He died in Alabama. The grandfather Lyle was of Irish descent, a native of North Carolina, born in 1800, and came to Tennessee in 1826, locating in Hardeman County, where he lived a number of years. He died in Fayette County, July 22, 1885. Roger was a mere child when bereft of his father. He remained with his mother until 1870, when he went west. He traveled most of the time, visiting nearly all the Westem States, and returned home January, 1873. The next five years he was salesman for different firms, and in 1878 engaged in merchandise business for himself, in which line has been very successful. Since 1875 he has had charge of the postoffice, and was appointed postmaster in 1877. He began life without capital, but by untiring energy and judicious management is now in easy circumstances, having accumulated considerable means and property. He is a respected member of the Missionary Baptist Church, of the Masonic order, the K. & L. of H. He is a true Democrat. November 5, 1874, Mr. Clark was united in marriage with Miss Sarah E., daughter of W. W. Elliotte. Their union resulted in the birth of five children, two of whom are living: Pear T. and Jewel E.

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Napoleon B. Cross

        Napoleon B. Cross, farmer of Hardeman County, is a native of Madison County, born May 4, 1840, the fourth of eight children born to Richard D. and Sarah (Springfield) Cross, both natives of Chatham County, N.C. They were married in North Carolina, February 23, 1832, and in 1839 immigrated to Tennessee, settled in Madison County and lived there eleven years. In 1850 they moved to Hardeman County and settled ten miles west of Bolivar. The father was born April 7, 1809, and died in Hardeman County April 29, 1874. The mother was born May 21, 1811, and the next year after her husband’s death she moved to the home of her daughters, Emily and Eddie; the former is the widow of Thomas A. Green who died in 1872. Napoleon B., after receiving a good education, selected farming as his occupation, and in 1868 came in possession of the old homestead, which he purchased in 1879. He owns 1,200 acres of land, and December 11, 1867, was united in marriage to Miss Lizzie Jarmon, a native of Hardeman County. To them have been born the following family: Robert D. born September 7, 1868; Napoleon R., born December 6, 1874, and John B., born April 30, 1881. In 1861 Mr. Cross enlisted in Company E, Seventh Tennessee Regiment Cavalry, was received into Gen. Forrest’s command and remained under him throughout the war, taking part in the battles of Harrisburg, Miss., Brice’s Cross-roads, Miss., Fort Pillow, Tenn., and several others. He received two wounds, one at Britton’s Lane in 1863, the other at Harrisburg in 1864. Received his honorable discharge in the spring of 1865 at Memphis. Mr. Cross is a Democrat, and although not a member of any church is in sympathy with the Methodist Episcopal Church, of which his wife is a worthy member.

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H. P. Day

        H. P. Day, register of Hardeman County, was born in Robinson [Robertson?] County, March 7, 1833, a son of William and Martha (Brewer) Day. The father was born in South Carolina in 1790; was of Scotch-Irish descent. He immigrated to Alabama and later to Middle Tennessee, where he married, and came to Hardeman County in 1846. He was a farmer by occupation, a Democrat in politics. He was not connected with any church but was a most excellent and honest man. He departed this life in 1855. His wife was of English origin, born in Knox County in 1800. She was a true Christian woman, and member of the Methodist Church. Her death occurred in 1866. She was the niother of four sons and four daughters, and for twenty years previous to her death she was blind. The subject of our sketch was raised on a farm. He received a good education in the common schools of the county. He was an affectionate and devoted son, and assisted his parents as long as they lived. In 1861 he enlisted in Company B, Thirty-third Tennessee Infantry, Confederate service. For three years he did active and faithful service, was never captured and but once wounded, but in the fourth year, 1864, his left arm was shot off on the New Hope Line, Ga., which of course disabled him. In 1865 he married Miss Eliza J. Coggins, a native of North Carolina, born July 13, 1843. To this union four girls were born. Mr. and Mrs. Day are consistent members of the Missionary Baptist Church. Mr. Day is an earnest and influential Democrat. He was elected to his present position in 1886. For thirty-six years he has been a resident of the county, where he is well known, and esteemed as one of the most worthy citizens and reliable men.

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G. W. Dowdy

        G. W. Dowdy, a member of the firm of Dowdy & Cargile, of Saulsbury, was born in August, 1842. His parents were B. F. and Susan (Akin) Dowdy. The father was born in Virginia, July 8, 1816, and immigrated to Tennessee about 1836, locating at La Grange, Fayette County. He was married February 12, 1839, to Miss Akin, who was born in North Carolina November 8, 1824. Her death occurred April 27, 1880, her husband dying December 31 of same year. The subject of this sketch is of Scotch-Irish descent. He attended the Woodland Academy until the outbreak of the late war. He entered the Confederate service, in Company K of the One Hundred and Fifty-fourth Regiment Infantry. At Murfreesboro he received a shot on the top of the head. It was the only serious wound he had during his gallant and faithful service. After the surrender he returned home and engaged as salesman. In 1872 he and his present partner established a general merchandise business at this place, since which time they have been exceedingly prosperous. Mr. Dowdy is an honorable, enterprising and substantial citizen, who has accumulated his possessions by hard work and economy. He is a member of the Missionary Baptist Church and treasurer of the K. of H., and a stanch, earnest Democrat. In May, 1866, he was wedded to Miss Sallie E. Whitlow. Their union resulted in the birth of Theodore, Nicholas, Frank, Ernest, Julius, Joe, Laurie and Mary Susan. Mrs. Dowdy is of an old and highly respected family. Her father, Nicholas (Cowan) Whitlow, was born in Limestone County, Ala., near Athens, September 28, 1821 — a son of Jesse and Sarah (Cowan) Whitlow, married in 1820 in Alabama. Mary Jane Bostwick was born near Charlotte, Mecklenburg Co., N. C., July 25, 1827—the daughter of William and Caroline Elizabeth (Graham) Bostwick. Mr. and Mrs. Whithow were married in Tippah County, Miss., July 23, 1844. They had a family of four sons and six daughters. Dr. Whitlow, who was for thirty-three years a practicing physician, died June 8, 1877, and his widow departed this life, July 17, 1881.

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Edwin R. Drake

        Edwin R. Drake, a prominent farmer of the Fourth District, was born in Southampton County, Va., February 6, 1839. His parents were John and Mary (Doyle) Drake, both natives of Virginia. The father is of English descent, born in 1807. After marriage, and in 1842, they came to Hardeman County. The family consisted of six children, five of whom lived to reach maturity. Mr. Drake has never united with any church, but has always led an honest, upright life. Previous to the war he was a Whig, but has since affiliated with the Republican party. For nearly eighteen years he served as magistrate — by occupation, a farmer, in which he was most successful. In 1863 he moved to Illinois. He is nearly eighty years of age. His wife, who was born in 1814, departed this life, in 1881. The grandfather Drake was a gallant soldier of the Revolutionary war. Edwin B., our subject, was reared on a farm and received a good, common-school education. He was a kind and devoted son, remaining at home and assisting his parents until his twenty-fourth year, when he engaged in farming. In 1864 he married Miss Frances M. Kinney, born April 17, 1840, in Haywood County. Their union resulted in the birth of two children: George W. and John R. (deceased). In national politics Mr. Drake is a thorough Republican, but in county affairs votes for the man, not the party. He has always been successful in his agricultural pursuits; by hard work, he now owns 314 acres of good land. He is an esteemed and worthy man.

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C. A. Duncan

        C. A. Duncan. Among the early settlers of Hardeman County was William B. Duncan, a native of South Carolina, who came to this county on a hunting expedition in 1814. He was so well pleased with the country that in 1820 he returned, bringing his family, among whom were Henry W. and Thomas. The former is spoken of in another sketch. Thomas was born in Rutherford County, Tenn., in 1807. He married Mrs. Nancy Gray, born in 1797. To this union five children were born, four of whom lived to be grown. Mr. Duncan was a farmer and a Democrat. He died in 1858. His wife’s death occurred in 1855. Both were members of the Methodist Church. The Duncan family is of Scotch-Irish descent. The only living son is Calvin A., our subject; was born October 25, 1836, in Marshall County, Miss., where his parents lived a short time. His early life was spent on a farm. He received a good common-school education. At the age of eighteen he began his career as a farmer. In 1861 he enlisted in Company G of Tenth Arkansas Infantry, Confederate service. He was severely wounded at the siege of Port Hudson by the bursting of a shell, a portion striking him on the head. It was thought at first that he was dead. He was disabled for nine months, and for thirteen months held a prisoner. A year after his entry into the army he was promoted to rank of third lieutenant and later to first lieutenant. After peace reigned once more, he commenced life again without a cent. For two years he clerked in a store in Whiteville, and then opened a saloon, continuing in the business four years. Later he embarked in general merchandising in which he has since been engaged, and with unusual success. In connection with his mercantile business, he is. interested in farming to a considerable extent. In 1871 he married Miss Sallie Andrews, born in 1852. They have no children, but are raising two orphans. Both Mr. and Mrs. Duncan are active and liberal members of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. For forty-five years Mr. Duncan has been a resident of Hardeman County, and twenty years closely associated with the commercial interest. He is known throughout the section as a man of fine business qualifications and honor. He is charitable and popular, and a stanch Democrat.

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Stephen N. Duncan

        Stephen N. Duncan. a farmer and mechanic of Whiteville, was born August 6, 1851, in Hardeman County. His parents were Henry W. and Margaret (Ruddell) Duncan. The father was born in 1800. He had been twice married previous to his union with Miss Ruddell. By his first wife he had one child, and eight children with the second wife. When about twenty years of age he settled in the western district, where Whiteville now lies. His chief occupation was farming. He also operated a grist and saw-mill, and kept a landing on Hatchie River. He began life a poor man, but by industry and good management amassed quite a snug fortune, and became the possessor of 1,900 acres of good land. He was a consistent, conscientious Christian. From religious principles, he never owned a slave. He met a sad and shocking death by drowning in Hatchie River in 1869. Mrs. Duncan was born in Kentucky in 1822, and died in 1852, leaving only one child, Stephen, our subject. He was but ten months old when his mother died. He was raised by his uncle, B. K. Ruddell. He received such educational advantages as the common schools of that day afforded. At the age of sixteen he began life for himself. After running a saw-mill for two years in Arkansas, he returned home and commenced farming. In 1873 he married Alice P. Andrews, who was born August 10, 1853. Of the three children born to this union only one is living — Mussie D. Mr. and Mrs. Duncan are respected members of the Methodist Church. In 1880 they located in Whiteville, where Mr. Duncan has since been engaged in mechanical pursuits, although still interested in farming. He owns 240 acres of fine productive soil. All of his life has been spent in Hardeman County, where he is well known and highly esteemed. He is one of the few surviving members of a prominent and once large family.

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Wiley Durden

        Wiley Durden, a resident and merchant of Saulsbury, was born March 28, 1836, in North Carolina, of which State his parents were natives. They were William and Elizabeth (Sauls) Durden. The father was born in 1806 and immigrated to Tennessee in 1837, locating in Hardeman County, where he resided until his death, February 12, 1855. The mother was born in 1797, and died August 22, 1854. Our subject was raised on a farm, upon which he worked until 1859, when he obtained a situation as salesman for J. M. Richardson, in the merchandise business, remaining in the position until the late war. He entered the Confederate service in 1863, in Col. J. C. Neely’s regiment. In 1864 he returned home and became clerk for McCullen & Bostwick. In 1867 he and R. M. Wright bought out the firm for which he had been working. The new firm was styled Wright, Cox & Co., changed in 1868 to Wright & Durden and, with the exception of one year, has so continued. They are now among the leading and most prosperous merchants of the place. having, by their fair dealing and courtesy to patrons, built up a large and profitable trade. Mr. Durden was married, Noveniber 15, 1870, to M. E. Tucker, of Somerville, Tenn. Their union has been blessed within two children: Edward Tucker and Willie Gwynne. Mr. Durden is highly respected by the entire community, and known as a man of fine business capacity, enterprise and honor. He began life at the close of the war without a cent, and is now the owner of some valuable property and considerable means. He is a stanch Democrat.

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David E. Durrett

        David E. Durrett, a leading merchant of Bolivar and an old resident of the county, was born April 15, 1835, in Albemarle County, Va., a son of Robert D. and Mary D. (Wood) Durrett, both of whom were natives of the same county and State as David. The father was born in 1796. He remained in his native State until after his marriage. He came to Hardeman County in 1836, and settled ten miles west of Bolivar. In the same year his wife died. Mrs. Durrett was the mother of mine children — six sons and three daughters — of whom but two are living. Mr. Durrett's second union was with Mrs. Polk, by whom he had one child. Mrs. (Polk) Durrett dying in 1844, ten years later Mr. Durrett returned to Virginia, and married Mrs. Terrell, who bore him one child. He was a farmer by occupation. He participated in the war of 1812, and was a Whig. He and his first wife were members of the Presbyterian Church. His death occurred in 1883. The subject of this sketch was raised on a farm. His educational advantages were rather limited, despite which fact he is possessed of no small amount of knowledge and information. At the age of fifteen years he obtained a situation as salesman in a store, continuing in the business until the war. In 1861 he enlisted in the Confederate service, Company E, Seventh Tennessee Cavalry. At the battle of Britton’s Lane his left limb was broken by a minie-ball, which crippled him for life, and has necessitated the use of crutches. In 1865 he opened a store at Clover Port, and one year later located in Bolivar, where he formed a partnership with Hugh Harkins, Sr. They established a house, the firm being known as Harkins & Durrett. They did an extensive and profitable business, and were recognized as one of the most substantial and reliable firms in the county. The death of Mr. Harkins, in 1885, dissolved the partnership which had continued so harmoniously for such a number of years. In 1866 Mr. Durrett married Miss Mary E. Walton, who was born in August, 1848. Their union was blessed with five children, four of whom are living. Mrs. Durrett is an estimable Christian woman, and an earnest member of the Presbyterian Church. Mr. Durrett is not connected with any church. For half a century he has been a resident of the county, thirty years of which time he has been actively and directly engaged in the business interest of Bolivar; not once has he failed nor asked an extension time. In connection with merchandising he carries on farming. He a man of indisputable integrity, and a worthy citizen.

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W. R. Elliott

        W. W. R. Elliotte, Jr., a leading merchant of Saulsbury, was born May 22. 1839, in Tippah County, Miss. His parents are W. W. R. and Jemima W. Ferguson. His father was born August 14, 1813, McMinnville, Tenn., a son of William and Elizabeth (Wilson) Elliott both natives of North Carolina, born respectively in 1767 and 1775. They immigrated to Tennessee at a very early day and located in Rutherford County, where they lived a number of years. The father died in Henderson County in 1836, and the mother in 1862. W. W. R., who is of Scotch-Irish descent, was raised on a farm. In 1856 he engaged in the whole sale and retail family grocery business, afterward adding a fine drug stock. In February, 1885, he was burned out, a lost a great deal. He is an old and honored citizen, and highly respected. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church South, a belongs to the Masonic order. Previous to the late war he was a Whig but since that time has belonged to no party. November 1, 1838, was married to Miss Jemima W. Ferguson. To them a family of nine children was born: Daniel F.; Mary A. E., wife of L. T. Barden; John W., C. G., Emily, Francis, Virginia T., Alice B. and the subject of this sketch, W. W. R, Jr., who is the third son. When quite young he entered the merchandise business, continuing as a salesman until 1874, which time he embarked in general merchandise and cotton trade Saulsbury, and to the present date has been very prosperous. He married October 29, 1874, to Maggie Brown, of Tippah County, Miss. She is a daughter of Lawson W. and Elizabeth Brown, both natives Mississippi. To Mr. and Mrs. Elliotte four children have been born: Lizzie J., Lawson W., Ida May and an infant. Mr. Elliotte is a worthy and substantial citizen, and a self-made man, who has accumulated property by economy and industry. He is an esteemed member of Methodist Episcopal Church South, and a strong Democrat.

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William H. Farley

        William W. Farley, county court clerk of Hardeman County, is a son of Franklin B. and Mary (Parr) Franklin. Both were born, reared and married in North Carolina. In 1833 they came to Fayette County, Tenn., where they remained until 1848, and then moved to Shelby County. The father was a farmer by occupation and a Whig in politics. They were both members of the Methodist Church and lived to a good age. Our subject was born January 18, 1827, in Caswell County, N.C., was reared on a farm and had the very best educational advantages his county afforded. At the age of twenty-one he began for himself by clerking in a dry goods store. After six years’ experience he began merchandising, which he continued some time. He then engaged in agricultural pursuits. In 1851 he married Mary J. Redd, daughter of Maj. P. B. Redd, an educator of Haywood County. This union was blessed by the birth of one son, William E., a farmer of Hardeman County. Mrs. Farley is a member of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. Before the war our subject was a Whig but since that event he has been a Democrat. In 1876 he was elected sheriff, which office he held as long as the law permits (six years). He was then elected to the office of county court clerk and is now discharging the duties of that position. He also carries on his agricultural pursuits and has 630 acres of valuable land. For forty years he has been a resident of Hardeman County, and the official positions he has held speak well for his popularity in the county. He is a man liberal in his support of schools, churches and other woin thy enterprises. His father was of German-Irish extraction.

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James Fentress

        Judge James Fentress, general solicitor for the Illinois Central Railroad Company, was born July 27, 1837, the second of a family of five children born to David and Matilda (Wendel) Fentress, whose ancestors came from England at an early day and located in Virginia. As the families increased they sought new and different homes, some coming to Tennessee. The grandfather, James Fentress, was speaker of the House of Representatives for a number of years. The maternal grandfather, David Wendel, of Murfreesboro, was the only Whig postmaster allowed to retain his office during Jackson’s administration. David Fentress married at Murfreesboro, moved to West Tennessee, where he made his home, and practiced law. He was considered one of the most talented and able lawyers in the entire section. He was at one time representative of Hardeman County in the State Legislature. Mrs. Fentress was a consistent and highly respected member of the Presbyterian Church. Mr. Fentress died in 1856, at the age of fifty-six years. Mrs. Fentress is still living, and in her seventy-eighth year. Her family consists of Dr. David W., of Texas; Francis, a lawyer of Bolivar; Kate, wife of Albert T. McNeal; Sallie W., wife of Jerome Hill, who is head of the firm of Hill, Fontaine & Co., of St. Louis; and the subject of this sketch, who after having the best of educational advantages at home, completed his course at the University of Virginia. After reading law for three years, he was admitted to the bar in 1859, since which time he has given most of his attention to his profession. The year of his admission to the bar he was united in marriage to Miss Mary T. Perkins, who was born January 16, 1842. This union resulted in the birth of ten children, of whom six are living: Mary W.; Matilda, wife of Girault Farrar, a lawyer of New Orleans; James, David, Calvin and Ethel. When the late war broke out between the North and South Judge Fentress entered the Confederate service as a volunteer May 15, 1861, as lieutenant. He soon became captain of Company B, Fourth Tennessee Infantry. In 1862 he resigned his commission and entered the cavalry service as private in Company E, Seventh Tennessee, and so continued until the close of the war. During his four years of active service he was neither wounded nor captured. Judge Fentress is a Democrat in politics. In 1870 he was a member of the State Constitutional Convention, and took a prominent part in the revision of the Constitution. The same year he was elected chancellor of the Tenth Chancery Division of Tennessee, and resigning in 1872, returned to the practice of his profession. In 1876 he was appointed general solicitor of the Illinois Central Railroad Company for Kentucky, Tennessee, Mississippi and Louisiana. He makes New Orleans his winter headquarters, spending the summer at his beautiful country residence near Bolivar. He is also chief attorney for the Mississippi & Tennessee Railroad Company, general solicitor for the Canton, Aberdeen & Nashville Railroad, for the Yazoo & Mississippi Valley Railroad, for the West & East Railroad, for the New Orleans Belt Line, and serves in the same capacity for several other railroad companies of less importance. The Judge advocates travel as a means of attaining the highest culture. Both he and his family have visited all the different countries of Europe and have also traveled extensively in America. They are a cultivated, refined and interesting family, always recognized as among the first in the land. Judge Fentress and his estimable wife are members of the Presbyterian Church.

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Francis Fentress

        Francis Fentress, a member of one of Tennessee’s oldest and most honored families is a well known and leading attorney at law, of Bolivar, is a native of the place, born May 28, 1840, the son of David and Matilda (Wendel) Fentress. His early education was received in Hardeman County; at the age of sixteen he entered the Bandusia Seminary of Nashville, and later attended the La Grange Synodical College, completing the Freshman and Sophomore courses in one year. He graduated at the University of Mississippi in 1861. The same year he entered the Confederate service as a volunteer, enlisting in Company E, Seventh Tennessee Cavalry, serving until the close of the war. After the restoration of peace, 1865, he began the reading of law under the guidance of his distinguished brother, Judge James Fentress, and was admitted to the bar the following year, since which time he has practiced in Bolivar. In 1870 he married Miss Bettie, daughter of Gen. R. P. Neely. Mrs. Fentress was born September 2, 1849, and died in 1881, heaving three children: Elizabeth, Frank and Louise. Mr. Fentress’ second marriage was with Miss Bettie Bradley, of Franklin, Tenn., who was born June 12, 1857. To their union one child has been born, Margaret. Mr. Fentress is one of the best informed and most prominent lawyers of Bolivar. For nineteen years he has been local attorney for the Illinois Central Railroad, also the Memphis & Charleston Road. He is a "sky blue" Democrat, being at present chief superior of elections in the western district of Tennessee, appointed by Judges Jackson and Hammond of the United States circuit and district courts. Mr. Fentress has passed his life almost entirely in the home of his nativity where he is universally esteemed. He and his wife are earnest members of the Presbyterian Church.

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Daniel A. Ferguson

        Squire Daniel A. Ferguson, a prominent resident and retired merchant at Saulsbury, was born January 8, 1825, in Franklin County, Va., of which State his parents were also natives. His father, Daniel Ferguson, was born August 4, 1782, and immigrated to Tennessee in 1836, locating in Hardeman County, where he died March 27, 1858. He was an officer of high rank in the war of 1812. The mother, Jemima (Saunders) Ferguson, was born, and spent her life in her native State. She died in 1835. Our subject’s early life was passed on a farm. In 1857 he embarked in the merchandise business at Saulsbury, where with the exception of about six years, he continued until 1882. He was one of the most successful merchants of the county for many years, and considered a man of best business qualifications. In 1849 he was elected magistrate, and served about ten years in that capacity. He was the first mayor of the town, holding the office for eight or ten years. No man in the community is better or more favorably known. He has great force of character. He began life with comparatively nothing, but is now in most comfortable circumstances, and owns some fine property. He is a Mason and a Democrat. April 29, 1847, he married Miss Frances E., daughter of James and Mary (Jones) Smith, of Tippah County, Miss. To the union two children were born: James and Mary Frances, both deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Ferguson are zealous and consistent members of the Methodist Episcopal Church South.

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James P. Ferguson

        James P. Ferguson, magistrate of the Second Civil District of Hardeman County and merchant of Hickory Valley, is a native of this county born September 28, 1845, the third of seven children born to Joel and Sarah (Flynt) Ferguson, both natives of Middle Tennessee, the father of Rutherford County, and the mother of Lincoln County. They came in early life to Hardeman County and were there married in 1833. The father was born in 1804, was a farmer, a Democrat, and a worthy member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He died October 1, 1862. The mother was born in 1810, was a member of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church and died in 1885. James P. received a good practical education, after which he engaged in farming interests for six years. In 1873 in partnership with a brother-in-law, D. W. McAnulty, he established a store in La Grange, Tenn., where they remained one year, when they moved their stock of goods to Hickory Valley, and in about a year’s time Mr. Ferguson sold his interest and for the next three years was not engaged in any special business. In 1877 he was employed by the old firm as bookkeeper and remained with them five years, after which he again became a partner, but on account of ill health was compelled to abandon mercantile life for a time. October, 1885, with a younger brother, Z. L. Ferguson, he established a store at Hickory Valley and has since been one of the active business men of the place. He owns one-half interest in this store and 275 acres of land in Hardeman County. December 10, 1867, Mr. Ferguson married Miss Mary L. Moorman born in 1839, a laughter of Rev. R. A. Moorman of Hardeman County. To this union have been born four children — one son and three daughters. He is a Democrat, a member of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church, and for eighteen years has served this church as elder. Mr. Ferguson is mayor of the town and notary public, the duties of which are the same as county court clerk.

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William D. Galloway

        William D. Galloway, a well-to-do farmer, and for four years magistrate of the Ninth Civil District of Hardeman County, was born in this county June 1, 1842, the second of six children born to Robert and Martha (McCrory) Galloway. The father was born in Limestone County, Ala., February 19, 1817. He was a life-long farmer, a Whig in politics, and a worthy member of the Methodist Church. The mother was a native of North Carolina, born in Mecklenburg County November 13, 1820. She was a member of the Missionary Baptist Church. William D. after securing a good education began early in life as a farmer. He has always made his native county his home with the exception of the time he served in the Confederate Army. In 1876 he settled on 200 acres of land, but in 1882 moved to where he now resides. Mr. Galloway has been an active business man all his life and now owns 750 acres of land in Hardeman County. January 13, 1876, he married Miss Sarah McCammon, a most worthy lady and daughter of George and Elizabeth McCammon, both still living in Hardeman County. Mrs. Galloway was born in Hardeman County October 5, 1853, and she and husband are the parents of these children: Nona G., born April 6, 1877; Bunyan, October 8, 1878; Kelcie, February 6, 1880; Edgar, April 8, 1881; David, October 5, 1882, and Wilmer, July 9, 1884. Mr. Galloway is a Democrat in politics, and he and wife are members of the Missionary Baptist Church.

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G. W. Garrett

        Col. G. W. Garrett, a prominent resident and prosperous merchant of Pocahontas, was born March 5, 1840, in South Carolina, of which State his parents were also natives. His father, Henry Garrett, was born March 5, 1808, and moved to Mississippi in 1851, locating in Tippah County, where he is living at present, extensively engaged in agriculture. The mother, Mrs. Elizabeth (Cauley) Garrett, was born in May, 1812. Col. Garrett’s ancestors were Scotch-Irish. He entered the Confederate service in 1861, at the age of nineteen, in the Third Mississippi Infantry, which was afterward consolidated within the Twenty-sixth and Twenty-third. He was second heutenant of Company C, and was gradually promoted until he reached the rank of colonel. During his brave and gallant service he did not receive a serious wound, but was captured twice, first at Fort Donelson, when he was imprisoned at Johnson Is] and for five months. He was again taken prisoner at Nashville, and confined at that place until the surrender. After peace was restored he returned home and engaged in farming which he continued for a year, at which time he formed a partnership with Halcomb, the firm being styled Halcomb & Garrett. One year later it was changed to G. W. Garrett & Bro., the same as at the present time. They have met with unusual success, having by their fair dealings and accommodating manners secured a large and profitable trade. January 9, 1866, the Colonel married E. J., daughter of Dr. R. L. and Annie Bouten, of French descent To Col. and Mrs. Garrett five children have been born: Minnie, Ottie, Hallie, Georgie and Lloyd. Col. Garrett is a true, worthy and esteemed citizen, a man of best social standing and an earnest member of the Missionary Baptist Church, also of the K. of H. He is a stanch Democrat and prohibitionist.

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George S. Gibson

        George S. Gibson, a well known and enterprising planter of Hardeman County, was born in Davidson County, Tenn., October 27, 1841, the second child in a family of eleven born to Jesse and Elizabeth (Parmley) Gibson. The parents were married near Knoxville, Tenn., about the year 1799, and soon after they moved to Davidson County, where they lived for a short time and then immigrated to Kentucky. The father was a native of Virginia, born about the year 1777; was a planter, and died in Kentucky about 1847. The mother was born in South Carolina, but the date of her birth is not known. She was several years younger than her husband and died in Hardeman County February 7, 1854. George S. received a good common school education and early in life turned his attention to farming. In 1826 he came to Tennessee and settled in Hardeman County, one of its first settlers. He was almost without money, and began at once a life of hardships and toil. By energy and economy after years of hard labor he was able to purchase a home, and in 1828 bought the farm where be now lives. Mr. Gibson was a heavy loser by the war, but now owns 220 acres of land. January 31, 1828, he married Miss Nancy Henson, a native of Madison County, Ky., born September 10, 1810, and to this union have been born ten children — seven sons and three daughters. Mr. Gibson was constable and deputy sheriff of his county for ten years, and has all his life been a Democrat. Although not a member of any church his views are in sympathy with the Missionary Baptist Church. Mrs. Gibson is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

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Robert Hannah

        Robert Hannah, a resident and farmer of the Thirteenth District, was born July 12, 1819, in Ireland, the eighth of ten children born to James and Margret Hannah. The mother died in Ireland and the father in Tennessee. The subject of this sketch immigrated to America in 1852, locating first in Arkansas where he engaged in farming and a portion of the time overseeing lands. In 1861 he came to Hardeman County, purchased laud and resumed farming in which he has always been very successful. He was married the first time about 1855 to Elizabeth Myrick. At the birth of the first child the mother died and the infant soon followed. In 1859 Mr. Hannah united with Lecami Ransey. This union resulted in the birth of seven sons and four daughters. The second wife departed thus life in 1882 and a year later Mr. Hannah wedded Eddie Puckett, of this county. The fruits of this marriage are two boys. All the family belong to the Methodist Episcopal Church South. Mr. Hannah is one of the most substantial men in the county, is worth a considerable sum. He had the misfortune to lose several thousand a few years ago, by security. All his means have been accumulated by economy and hard work without the aid of an education. He is a self-made man whose word is as good as gold, and he richly deserves the esteem in which he is held by the community. He is a strong Democrat and deeply interested in educational institutions and all worthy enterprises.

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Orris Harris

        Orris Harris, magistrate of the Third Civil District and farmer of Hardeman County, is a native :of Southampton County, Va., born February 5, 1832, the sixth of a family of ten children, three of whom are now living, born to Hardy and Elizabeth (Peete) Harris, both natives of Southampton County, Va. They were married in Virginia, May 25, 1820, and came to Tennessee in 1842 and settled in Hardeman County. The father was a merchant and planter by occupation, and a Democrat in politics. He was born January 19, 1793, and died in Hardeman County, September 28, 1844. The mother was born April 10, 1802, and after her husband’s death she broke up housekeeping and lived with her children. She was a member of the Missionary Baptist Church and died in Fayette County, August 2, 1882, while on a visit to her daughter, Mrs. Hardin. Mr. Harris secured by his own efforts a good education and selected farming as his occupation through life. He came with his parents when ten years old to Hardeman County, and with the exception of seven years has ever since lived here. In 1869 he purchased the farm where he now lives and owns 365 acres of land well improved. August 30, 1858, Mr. Harris married Miss Lucilla W. Price, a native of Hardeman County, and second cousin to Gen. S. Price, born April 10, 1842. To them have been born nine children, four now living. In the spring 1861 he enlisted in Company F, Seventh Tennessee Regiment Cavalry under Gen. Forrest’s command, remaining with him during the war. He participated in the battles of Belmont, Mo., Corinth, Miss., Fort Pillow, Guntown and numerous others. He is a Democrat but before the war was an old time Whig. For the last sixteen years has held his present office, that of magistrate, and is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church South. Mrs. Harris and two daughters are members of the same denomination.

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R. R. Harriss

        R. R. Harriss. Among the early settlers of Hardeman County was James B. Harriss, a native of Kentucky, born in 1810. His educational advantages were very meager, but by coming in contact with the business world he became well informed in all practical affairs. When young he came to this county and here met and married Mary Robb, also a native of Kentucky, born in 1819. They had eleven children, seven of whom are now living. He was a Democrat in politics, and had the honor of holding several county offices. For six years he was sheriff, was also county court clerk, and magistrate. His chief calling in life was farming, though for about ten years he was interested in merchandising. Although he started in life on a small beginning he was successful and at the time of his death, which occurred in 1877, was the owner of 2,400 acres of land. Six years afterward the mother followed him. Of the seven surviving children, two sons are in Arkansas, one son in Texas and two sons and two daughters in this county. One of the daughters, Ann. C., is the wife of William R. Kearney, the other daughter, Ophehia, is the wife of William A. Franklin. The two sons living in this county are Robert R. and Charles H., both born and reared in this county, and are among its rising young farmers. Both are Democrats in politics. Few families have lived in Hardeman County longer then the Harrisses and few deserve a more honorable mention in the pages of its history.

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Theophilus Higgs

        Theophilus Higgs, a prominent farmer of Hardeman County, is a native of Halifax County, N.C., born June 29, 1822, the youngest of eight children and the only one now living, born to Theophilus and Mary P. (Brantly) Higgs. The father who was a farmer by occupation, was of French descent born in about the year 1786, in Northampton County, N.C., and died when our subject was about three years old, in Halifax County, N.C. The mother was of Irish origin born in Halifax County, April 2, 1789, and died in Hardeman County, Tenn., September 13, 1869. They were married in Halifax County, and the father was an honored and esteemed man and a Democrat in politics. Our subject secured a good academical education and having selected farming as his occupation in life, at an early age began tilling the soil. In 1848 he came with his mother and two sisters to Tennessee and settled in Hardeman County and has ever since made it his home. In 1849 he purchased the farm where he now lives, and since then has been one of the active and enterprising farmers of the county. Before the Rebellion he was very successful and had secured a handsome competency. The results of the war left him somewhat impoverished but he has since, by industry and economy, been fairly successful and now owns 400 acres of land under a good state of cultivation. January 31, 1856, Mr. Higgs married Miss Margaret Cheairs, a native of North Carolina, born June 5, 1835. To this union have been born seven children — five sons and two daughters — one son and one daughter deceased. In political views he is rather inclined to the Independent party, but is somewhat in sympathy with the Democrats. Mr. Higgs is not a member of any church but a firm believer in Christianity. Mrs. Higgs is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

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Benjamin V. Hudson

        Benjamin V. Hudson, a leading and well known druggist of Bolivar, was born October 11, 1859, in Hardeman County. He was the youngest son of Thomas W. and Elizabeth C. (Reaves) Hudson. When young, both parents came to the county, where they were married. Both were members of the Methodist Church. The father was a man of considerable means and an extensive planter; he owned about 1,100 acres of valuable land. For many years he held the position of county surveyor. In 1862 he died leaving a wife, two sons and four daughters. Mrs. Hudson is still living; is about sixty-two years of age. Previous to her union with Mr. Hudson she was married to Mr. McKinnie, by whom she had two children. The subject of this sketch was raised on a farm and received his early education in the common schools. He afterward spent some time at the University of Tennessee. He clerked in a drug store at Whitesville about two years, and the same length of time in Bolivar. He then attended two courses of lectures at Baltimore, Md., for the purpose of thoroughly understanding pharmacy, preparing himself for the business he was to embark in. In 1883 he purchased the drug stock of Coleman & Co., and enlarged it until it now ranks among the leading houses of the county. He is an energetic, enterprising young man, and has built up a large first-class trade. He is an active and earnest member of the Methodist Church, and a Democrat. His brother is teaching school in Arkansas.

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George T. Ingram

        George T. Ingram, one of the leading grocery merchants of Bolivar, was born in Hardeman County, October 10, 1851; he was the only child of Thomas and Mary Ingram, both of whom were born and raised in Hardeman County, and were consistent members of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. The father was a farmer by occupation, and a stanch Democrat. He was a highly respected man. His death occurred when he was but thirty-two years of age. Mrs. Ingram moved to Texas in 1856. There she married Dr. A. A. Prewitt, by whom she bore one son, J. A. Mrs. Prewitt died in 1860, at Jefferson, Tex. Our subject, George T., was principally raised in his native county, where he received a good common education. At the age of nine years he had to begin life for himself. He waspossessed of more determination and force of character than many of his seniors and he managed to overcome the difficulties which surround the young and inexperienced. After reaching manhood he clerked for three years, at the same time handled notes, bonds, and conducted various transactions. In 1875 he estabhishmed a grocery store, and by courtesy to patrons, and chose attention to his affairs, has an extensive and profitable trade. He is one of the board of directors of the bank of Bolivar. He is a stanch Democrat, but takes no active part in politics. He has resided in the county about twenty-five years; nearly half of that time he has been connected with the business circles, and no man in the community has a better record, or is more esteemed. In 1879 he married Miss Priscilla Nuckolls. Of the three children born to them, Mary and George T. are living, Neither Mr. nor Mrs. Ingram are church members, but they are a conscientious, charitable and upright couple universally respected.

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M. H. Jernigan

        Squire M. H. Jernigan, a well known resident and farmer of the Thnrteenth Civil District, was born in Hardeman County December 4, 1834. His parents were Arthur A. and Sarah (Howell) Jernigan, both natives of North Carolina. The father was born in 1804 and immigrated to Tennessee at an early date, locating in Hardeman County, where he died about 1859. The mother was born in 1814; was a relative of the late distinguished Rev. R. B. C. Howell, of Nashville, Tenn. Her death occurred in 1884. There was an extensive connection of children and grand-children, numbering in all about eighty-five. Our subject is of Scotch-Irish descent. He was raised on a farm; was working on his mother’s place at the outbreak of the late war. His educational advantages were of the most inferior character. When he attained his majority he could scarcely write his name, but by study, application and reading a good class of literature, has become well informed and fairly educated. In 1863 he entered the Confederate service, and was soon captured and was imprisoned at Alton, Ill.; shortly afterward he was sent to Fort Donelson, making the length of his confinement about seventeen months. He was released but a short time before the surrender, after which he returned home and engaged in farming and schoolteaching alternately. He was elected in 1875 to the office of magistrate, to fill the unexpired term of R. N. Mitchell, and has served since that time. July, 1865, he married Miss Smithie E. Tennyson, of Mississippi. To their union five children were born: Loudella D., the wife of M. J. Brannam of Gibson County; Martha D., wife of A. J. Brannam of this county; Arlington Lee; Hiram A.; and Mary Rosella, whose death occurred August 14, 1873. Mr. Jernigan is a respected member of the Missionary Baptist Church. He belongs to the Masonic order at Rose Creek, McNairy County, and is a stanch Democrat. He is of high social standing, a self-made, substantial and worthy man.

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William M. Johnson

        William M. Johnson, Esq., is among the old and respected settlers of Hardeman County. He was born January 29, 1819, in Williamson County. His parents were Andrew M. and Mary (Guthrie) Johnson. The father was born in 1794 in Brunswick County, Va., and came to Tennessee with his parents when a small child. He was married in Davidson County, 1816, and eight years later moved to Rutherford County, and in 1833 located in Hardeman County, where the remnainder of his life was spent. He was of English descent; a farmer by occupation; a Whig in politics. He served gallantly under command of Jackson against the Indians and in the battle of New Orleans. His family consisted of seven sons and four daughters; five of the children are living. He died in 1851. He and his wife were both connected with the Methodist Church. Mrs. Johnson was of French-Welsh origin; born in Nashville, Tenn., in 1797. Her father was one of the earliest settlers, and first tinner and coppersmith of that place. Her death occurred in 1843. Our subject was raised on a farm. His educational advantages were limited. At the age of nineteen he began to learn the tinner’s trade, which he followed some six years, and then turned his attention to farming. He has met with a great deal of success. He began life with comparatively nothing, but by judicious management, enterprise and industry, now owns about 1,800 acres of valuable land. Previous to the war he was a Whig — an uncompromising Union man. He is an ardent and influential Democrat. In 1867-68 he represented Hardeman County in the State Legislature. He has been a resident of the county for more than a half century; a member of the county court for twenty-one years. He is recognized as one of the most enterprising, charitable and esteemed men in the community. In 1862 he married Mrs. Margaret Johnson, nee Lacy. She was born December 25, 1839. To this union three children have been born: Lou, Belle and Myrtle. Mr. Johnson and his daughters are Methodists. Mrs. Johnson has not united with any denomination. By her first marriage she had one child, Nettie.

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J. H. and E. M. Jones

        J. H. and E. M. Jones, proprietors of the Hardeman Woolen Mills, are the sons of Paul T. Jones, who was born in North Carolina in 1828, and came with his parents to Hardeman County in 1832. They settled on the farm upon which the West Tennessee Insane Asylum is now situated. He received an excellent and thorough education, completing his course at Lagrange College, Alabama. In 1848 he was married to Miss Jennie M. Wood, who bore him four sons and two daligliters. In 1863 Mrs. Jones died a respected member of the Presbyterian Church; five years later he married Miss Mary Kirkman, with whom he had four sons and two daughters. Mr. and Mrs. Jones are consistent members of the Presbyterian Church. Previous to the war Mr. Jones was a Whig, and is now a stanch Democrat. At the close of the war he was appointed magistrate by Brownlow, and was afterward elected to the same office. He was the founder of the once lively village of Leatherville, in Hardeman Coumity, where he operated a saw and grist-mill, a tanyard and woolen-mill, the last of which is successfully run by his two sons whose names appear at the head of this biography. The woolen factory was established in 1838 by the father, who had charge of it until 1874, when the present senior member took the management, and four years later was joined by his brother. Both of these gentlemen were born and raised in Hardeman County. They are energetic, wide-awake men, who have by their ability and integrity been unusually prosperous in their business. They are universally known and popular.

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Isaac and Samuel Kahn

        Isaac and Samuel Kahn, under the firm title of Kahn Bros., are leading dry goods merchants of Bolivar, and the sons of Henry and Louise (Newberger) Kahn, both natives of Germany where they grew up and were married. Soon after they immigrated to America and located in Bolivar, where he opened a dry goods store and was engaged in this business until 1863. He then moved to Louisville, Ky., where he carried on the same business a short time and then retired in 1868. He was a Democrat in politics, and a remarkably successful merchant. He died in 1880. The mother is still living in Louisville and is sixty-five years of age. They had five children — four sons and one daughter. In 1868 the four sons came to Bolivar, opened a large dry goods house and for fifteen years were in partnership. In 1883 Marcus Kahn left the firm and a year later Jacob Kahn withdrew, leaving the firm as it now is. Twice the store has been burned and each time a more extensive one has been built. Isaac, the senior member of the firm, was born July 20, 1849, in Bolivar where he received his early education and afterward attended the Male High School at Louisville, Ky. After completing his education he came to Bolivar and has since been engaged in business at this place. In 1880 he married Emma Rosenthal, by whom he had two sons — Henry and Claude Mellville. Samuel, the junior member of the firm, was born in 1852 in Bolivar, and received the same educational advantages as his brother, Isaac. In 1881 he married Miss Tillie Frank, and to this union were born three children: Annie, Louise, and an infant. Both brothers are stanch Democrats in politics. The firm of Kahn Bros., have had the leading dry goods business in Bolivar since 1868 and are prominent among the first business men of the town.

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William R. Kearney

        William R. Kearney, a well known miller and farmer of the Sixth District, was born September 17, 1832, in Bolivar, Tenn., and is a son of Philip and Sarah (Ramsey) Kearney, both of Irish descent. They came to Hardernan County when quite young and here were married. To them were born three sons: William R., John H. and Philip; the last two mentioned are dead. The father, after making several moves, finally settled in Holmes County, Miss., where he died. He was a Democrat in politics. His widow returned to Hardeman County and married Robert H. Walton, by whom she had two children: Mary E., wife of D. E. Durrett, and Charles A. Mrs. Walton was a consistent member of the Missionary Baptist Church and died April 2, 1886. The grandparents came direct from the Emerald Isle. Our subject was reared in his native town, and received a very limited education. When about twenty years of age he began life for himself. After a year spent in Louisiana, and another in Kentucky he returned to Bolivar and with his brother in 1854, purchased a grist-mill, in which business he has since been engaged. In connection with the mill, which is the best in the county, he is largely interested in agricultural pursuits, owning about 1,300 acres of valuable land. The mill was burned once but was soon replaced by a better one. In 1865 Mr. Kearney married M. L. Davis, who was born in 1842. She was a most estimable woman and an earnest member of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. She died in 1868 leaving one son. Five years later Mr. Kearney wedded C. A. Harriss, who was born October 6, 1844. This union resulted in the birth of five children, four of whom are living. For over half a century our subject has lived in Hardeman County and is recognized throughout the entire section as a man of fine business capacity, and an honest, upright citizen. He is a stanch Democrat in politics, and he and wife are members of the Missionary Baptist Church.

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Sallie R. Kent

        Mrs. Sallie R. Kent, nee Polk, was born in Hardeman County, Tenn., in the year 1821 and is the daughter of William and Elizabeth (Dodd) Polk. Mrs. Kent came of an illustrious family, her father being an uncle of President J. K. Polk. Williani Polk was a native of North Carolina and in 1837 he moved to Walnut Bend, Arkansas, sixty miles below Memphis. In 1843 our subject married Dr. Joseph Kent, a son of ex-Gov. Kent of Maryland. Dr. Kent was a native of Prince George County, Md., born in 1805, and practiced his profession in the city infirmary of Baltimore for seven years. He was an Episcopalian in his religious belief, and his death occurred in 1862, in Arkansas. Seven children were born to their marriage, two now living: Joseph and Olivia Polk Kent. Mrs. Kent had the best of educational advantages in her girlhood, having been educated at Salem, N. C. Olivia married James Bass, a native of Middle Tennessee. Dr. and Mrs. Kent’s generosity was proverbial within the pale of their acquaintance, being ever ready to bestow kindnesses on all worthy applicants. In 1863 Mrs. Kent left her home in Arkansas for the purpose of educating her children in the schools of St. Louis, Mo., and in 1864 her home valued at $35,000 was destroyed by fire, besides valuable books to the amount of $3,000. After the visitation of this dire calamity, a home was offered her by her sister, Mrs. Abner Taylor, who lives in Madison County: Mr. and Mrs. Taylor were a great comfort to her in this great distress and too much cannot be said of their kindness. In 1870 Mrs. Kent moved to New Castle, Hardeman County, where she still lives, respected by all who know her, for excellent qualities.

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John W. Kinney

        John W. Kinney, a respected and well known farmer, of the Second District, was born August 14, 1838, in Haywood County, Tenn. His parents were George W. and Lucinda J. (Tucker) Kinney. When young they both came to the western district, settling in Haywood County, where they were wedded. In 1860 they moved to Hardeman County. Both belonged to the Methodist Church. Of the fourteen children born to their union, only four sons and three daughters survive. The father was of Irish descent, an old school Democrat, as are his sons. All of his life he was an industrious, energetic farmer, and accumulated some 1,700 acres of fine land. He died in 1883, since which time the mother has made her home with her children. The subjectof this sketch was reared on a farm and received his education in the common schools. On reaching manhood’s estate, he took charge of his father’s business, conducting it for seven years. In 1866 he married Miss Letitia F. Goodwin, who was born Augast 29, 1848. Their union has been blessed with eight children, four of whom are sons. Mr. and Mrs. Kinney are consistent and earnest members of the Missionary Baptist Church. After marriage he settled in Mississippi where he farmed until 1880, when he returned to Hardeman County. He has been quite successful in agricultural pursuits and now owns about 600 acres of good land. He is an enterprising and worthy citizen.

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Joseph L. Lax

        Joseph L. Lax, farmer, is a native of the county where he now resides, born February 3, 1837, a son of Berryman and Virginia O. (Farmer) Lax. Both were of English descent and natives of Halifax County, Va. They were married in their native State and soon after immigrated to Tennessee and stopped in Bedford County for two years and then moved to Hardeman County and were among its first settlers. The father was born about the year 1792. In 1858 he immigrated to Arkansas where he died in 1874. He was a Whig in politics and he and wife were members of the Missionary Baptist Church. The mother died in Hardeman County, June 27, 1853. Joseph L., after securing a good education, began farming and has always made Hardeman County his home excepting the time spent in the war and two years spent in the States of Arkansas and Mississippi. In June, 1862, Mr. Lax enlisted in Company C, Forty-second Mississippi Regiment Infantry; was received in Gen. Heath’s division, participating in the battles of the Wilderness and others. He was captured at Cold Harbor and was sent as a prisoner of war to Point Lookout. In 1865 he returned home and resumed farming, and now owns 700 acres of land. December 7, 1859, Mr. Lax married Miss Ann E. Cook, born in Montgomery County, N.C., August 20, 1837, a daughter of William and Martha Cook. Mr. Lax is a believer in Christianity, but not a member of any church. Mrs. Lax and her mother are members of the Missionary Baptist Church.

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John T. Low

        John T. Low was born June 19, 1851, two miles southwest of Saulsbury, Hardeman Co., Tenn. He is a son of E. E. and Mary A. (Aitken) Low. The father was born in Perry County, Ala., August 24, 1824, and immigrated to Hardeman County, Tenn., January, 1831, and was married September 5, 1847, to Miss Aitken, of Hardeman County, Rev. Samuel Lambeth officiating. To this union four sons were born, three of whom died in childhood. E. E. Low joined the Masonic fraternity in 1848, Berlin Lodge, No. 170, in town of Berlin, Hardeman County, and the Royal Arch Chapter and Council Masons in La Grange, Fayette Co., Tenn. September, 1854, he became a member of the Baptist Church at Rock Springs, Hardeman County, the pastor being Rev. L. Savage. September, 1855, he engaged in commercial business at Saulsbnry. He formed a copartnership with John M. and J. J. Chambers; the firm was styled E. E. Low & Co. They met with considerable success and were regarded as men of ability and integrity. J. J. Chambers was a prosperous merchant and farmer, always a true Democrat. In 1861 a company was organized and called the Saulsbury Grays. J. M. Richardson was made captain. H. A. Guynn first lieutenant, E. E. Low, second heutenant and Jesse Barden, third lieutenant. A company called the Hatchy Hunters, of Bolivar, Tenn., with R. H. Wood of that place as captain, was consolidated at Trenton, Gibson County, into the Twenty-second Tennessee Volunteers, Thomas J. Freeman as colonel of the regiment. After serving about four months Mr. Low resigned his commission as lieutenant and joined the company as a private. In the fall of 1862 the conscript law took effect and he being over thirty-five years of age was released from duty at Tupelo, Miss. He returned home. In November of the same year, while leading a quiet and peaceable life, he and several others were taken by the Federal soldiers and imprisoned at Alton, Ill. His fellow prisoners were M. M. Thurmond, T. B. Bowdon, William Gannon and T. B. Low, his brother. January, 1863, without charges or trial he was released and lived as a citizen until the following fall, when he went south with C. W. Phelps, an old comrade of the Twenty-second Regiment and enlisted in the Fourteenth Tennessee Cavalry, Col. J. J. Neely’s regiment, under command of Gen. N. B. Forrest. Mr. Low was commissary of the regiment until the latter portion of December, 1864, after the battle of Franklin, Tenn., or better known as Hood’s raid. He was taken sick near Nashville, Tenn., with pneumonia and left three or four miles north of Franklin with James P. Moore, a citizen. In March, 1865, he went to Memphis by boat, and obtained a situation as clerk for Pearce, Park & Co., at that place. In the fall of that year he entered into business at Saulsbury in partnership with J. J. Chambers, T. C. Moore and J. D. Ussery, the firm being known as Moore, Ussery & Co. In the fall of 1866 he retired from business, devoting the remainder of his life to his family. In 1873 Saulsbury Grange was organized with E. E. Low as Master. He died July 4, 1886. He was one of a family of twenty-two brothers and sisters. His father, Thomas Low (grandfather John T.) was born in Randolph County, N.C., January 22, 1768. He immigrated to Georgia when quite young, then to Alabama, and January, 1831, came to Hardeman County, Tenn. The next year he formed a M. D. society in that county. His death occurred March 9, 1846, and the community lost a useful and esteemed resident. His father (great-grandfather of subject) was John Low; he married Charity, a sister of the distinguished Gen. John Butler and a niece of Gen. William O. Butler, a noted and gallant officer with Gen. Zachary Taylor in the Mexican war. The mother of John T. Low was born January 29, 1826, in Russellville, Ala. Her father, John Hall Aitken, was a native of Edinburg, Scotland. He immigrated to America in 1817. In 1821 he married Miss Mary F. Rutherford, of Russellville. His death occurred April, 1827. March, 1828, Mrs. Aitken, with her two children, William and Mary, and her father, Samuel Rutherford, immigrated to Hardeman County, Tenn., and settled where the town of Grand Junction now lies, or about two and a half miles south of the railroad crossing. Samuel Rutherford was born in Gochland County, Va., in 1763 and located in Russellville, Franklin Co., Ala., in 1818. John T. Low, the subject of this sketch, was raised on a farm and received such educational advantages as the average country boy and schools of that day gave, until about his nineteenth year or the close of the war. He then entered the Union University at Murfreesboro where he remained two years, returning home in 1872. He became interested in agriculture and has devoted his time to that pursuit in which he has met with prosperity. In connection with his chief pursuit he has done a portion of the surveying for Hardeman County since 1875. He is a man of the best social standing, influence and indisputable integrity. He is prominently connected with the Masonic order, being a Royal Arch Mason. His membership is at Saulsbury Lodge, No. 48. He is a stanch, true Democrat. He is an enterprising farmer, and extensive dealer in fine blooded stock and cattle. He is liberal and always ready to assist all charitable institutions or worthy and beneficial enterprises. He was married in Texas, December 23, 1874, to Josie Guy, the only daughter of Dr. J. H. and Ranie (Carlton) Guy. Mrs. Low was born December 5, 1856, in Haywood County, Tenn. To this union four children have been sent: Willie Carlton, born November 14, 1876; Ranie Mary, born October 10, 1877; Johnnie T., born June 14, 1881, and departed this life January 5, 1885; Josie Irene, born October 14, 1885. Mr. and Mrs. Low are devoted and exemplary members of the Missionary Baptist Church. Mr. Low joined in 1868.

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J. A. Manson

        Hon. J. A. Manson, a resident of Saulsbury, was born July 28, 1842, in McDonough, Ga. His parents were Dr. F. E. and Mary B. (Bethune) Manson. The father was born March 19, 1800, in Virginia, and immigrated to Georgia about in 1820, where he was prominently connected with the political affairs of that day. He was a member of the Legislature a number of terms, being a Representative at the time Georgia seceded. His death occurred in 1874. The mother was born in Georgia, in 1810, and departed this life in 1852. She was a sister to the distinguished Gen. James Bethune of Pennsylvania. Our subject received an excellent education at Emory College, Oxford, Ga., where he was at school when the war broke out. He entered Company A, Cobbs, Ga., as private. In 1863 was promoted to rank of lieutenant; November 29, 1863, he received a wound from the explosion of a hand grenade, at Knoxville, and was disabled for about thirty days. April 6, 1865, he was captured, and imprisoned at Johnson’s Island, where he was held about two months. After his release he resumed his studies at college, graduating in 1867. He taught school at Bolivar, La Grange and Saulsbury until 1880. In the meantime, 1873, he received the degree of A.M. He was elected to represent Hardeman County in the State Legislature, in 1876. He served with so much credit and distinction that he was chosen each succeeding term until 1884. In 1885 he became speaker of the house. July, of the same year, he was appointed deputy revenue collector, which position he still holds. He is a strong Democrat, and very influential. He is intelligent, enterprising and honorable. He has, by his own efforts, accumulated considerable fine property and means. He is a sincere member of the Methodist Episcopal Church South, and prominently connected with the Masonic order, K. of’ H., and K. & L. of H. June 28, 1870, he married Miss Fannie E., daughter of W. W. Elliotte, Sr. To Mr. and Mrs. Manson an interesting family, consisting of three boys and two girls, have been born: Joseph A., Minnie J., Frank E., Mary J. and Grover Cleveland.

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David W. McAnulty

        David W. McAnulty, a prominent merchant of Hickory Valley, is native of Hardeman County, born October 14, 1847, the elder of two children born to Joseph S. and Margaret A. (Woods) McAnulty. The father is a native of North Carolina, born May 12, 1821, and came with his parents to Hardeman County in 1835, where they lived the remainder of their lives. He is engaged in agricultural pursuits and has been successful in securing this world’s goods. He is a Democrat and a member of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. The mother is a native of Hardeman County, born May 14, 1833, and is a worthy member of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. David W., by his own efforts, secured a good practical education, after which he was engaged in the farming interests on his father’s farm. In 1865 he became a salesman in the store of J. H. McClellan & Co., of La Grange, Tenn., where he remained one year, and the year following was connected with the firm of Graves & Gaither in the same capacity. December 10, 1867, Mr. McAnulty married Miss Martha R. Moorman, an accomplished daughter of Rev. R. A. Moorman of Hardeman County. They are the parents of eight children, six of whom are living. For about five years after his marriage, Mr. McAnulty was engaged in farming, with fair results, but in 1873 established a store in La Grange in partnership with a brother-in-law, J. P. Ferguson, which he continued one year. In 1874 they moved their stock of goods to Hickory Valley, and since then Mr. McAnulty has been of the enterprising and energetic business men of that place, now owning one-half interest in the store which is valued at $10,000, besides 300 acres of land. He is a Democrat and contributes liberally to the support of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church, of which he and wife are members.

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Joseph A. Mathews

        Joseph A. Mathews, planter of Hardeman County, is a native of Abbeville County, S.C., born January 15, 1830, the thirteenth of fourteen children born to Joseph C. and Margaret (Brough) Mathews. The father, of Irish descent, was born in Abbeville County, S.C., and his occupation was farming and tanning. He was a Democrat in politics and an elder in the Presbyterian Church for many years. He died in his native county in about 1854. The mother was also .a native of Abbeville County, S.C., and a member of the Presbyterian Church, and her death occurred in 1860. Joseph A. secured by his own efforts a practical education and for several years followed the tanner’s trade in South Carolina, but in 1848 immigrated to Tennessee and settled in Fayette County. He here followed the same business for four years but in 1852 bought four horses and began teaming from West Tennessee and northern Mississippi to Memphis. In the summer of 1860 he took a prospecting tour through Arkansas, Texas and Louisiana, but did not buy and soon returned to Fayette County and gave his attention to farming. In 1865 Mr. Mathews purchased the place where he now lives in Hardeman County, where he moved the next year, and now owns 850 acres of laud in this county. September 15, 1857, he married Miss Ellen Morrow, a lady of highly respected family, born in Greenville County, S.C., June 22, 1822. She was a member of the Presbyterian Church and died February 27, 1880, leaving two children: William M., a young lawyer of much promise, and Jennie, a young lady of many accomplishments. December 1, 1881, Mr. Mathews married Miss Fannie Campbell, a most worthy lady, born in Mississippi, May 15, 1800. Mr. Mathews is a Democrat, and he and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church South.

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William A. May

        William A. May, merchant and planter of Hardeman County, is a native of Fayette County, born December 6, 1861, one of two children born to William A. and Mildred (Davis) May. The parents were natives of Virginia and were married in New Castle, Hardeman Co., Tenn., in about 1857. The father was born about 1815, was a Democrat, a merchant and planter, and died in Fayette County, Tenn., in 1885. He was a prominent member of the Missionary Baptist Church. The mother was born about 1840, was a highly cultured lady, a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Her death occurred in Fayette County, June 2,1877. The subject of this sketch received good educational advantages, was educated at Culleoka, Tenn., and University of Alabama. After completing his education he was engaged in farming interest for two years with good success. In 1879, in partnership with W. T. Scott, he established a store of general merchandise in Hickory Valley, and has since been an active and successful business man. Mr. O. B. Polk has recently entered this firm. Mr. May owns one-third interest in this house. He also owns 3,000 acres of land in Hardeman and Fayette Counties. February 26, 1884, he married Miss Annie Morgan, an accomplished lady, a native of Memphis, Tenn. They have a child, William A., born January 15, 1885. Mr. May is a Democrat in politics, and he and his wife are members of the Presbyterian Church.

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John E. McCaskill

        John E. McCaskill, farmer is a native of Hardeman County, born October 24, 1837, the third of five children born to Taylor and Nancy McCaskill. The parents were natives of North Carolina, where they married in about the year 1832 and in 1835 they immigrated to Tennessee and settled in Hardeman County, where they spent the rest of their days. The father was of Scotch descent, born in 1809, was a farmer, a Democrat in politics, and a worthy member of the Missionary Baptist Church. His death occurred in Hardeman County, August 10, 1841.. The mother was of English origin, born February 16, 1812. She was a member of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church and died at Hardeman County, April 9, 1883. John E. received a good practical education and began early in life as a farmer, and except the time spent in the Confederate Army has always made Hardeman County his home. In the spring of 1861 he enlisted in Company B, Fourth Tennessee Infantry, and was received into Cheatham’s division, and participated in the battles of Perryville, Murfreesboro, Chickamauga, etc. He was wounded at Jonesboro, Ga., in August, 1864, and was compelled to return home, when he again resumed farming. In 1865 he purchased half of the farm where he now lives from his brother, and now owns 240 acres of good land in his county. May 1, 1866, Mr. McCaskill married Miss. Cynthia Sutton, a native of Hardeman County, born November 25, 1849. Unto this union have been born ten children — seven sons and three daughters — one son deceased. Mr. McCaskill is a Democrat, and he and wife are strict members of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church.

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Thomas E. Mercer

        Thomas E. Mercer, an enterprising merchant of Toone and member of the firm of Mercer & McGlathery, is a native of Madison County, Tenn., born February 5, 1844, the fourth of eight children, four now living, born to Thomas B. and Catharine (Crisum) Mercer. The parents were married in Madison County about the year 1830 and in 1843 came to Hardeman County, where they have since lived. The father was born in Currituck County, N.C., in December, 1816, is a farmer, a Democrat, and a member of the Missionary Baptist Church. The mother is a member of the same church, born in Middle Tennessee in 1818. Our subject’s education at seventeen was interrupted by the breaking out of the war, when he enlisted in Company B, Thirty-third Tennessee Regiment Infantry; was received in Cheatham’s division and participated in the battles of Shiloh, Perryville, Ky., Murfreesboro and of Chickamauga. At the latter place he received a severe wound which caused him much suffering. After a partial recovery he returned to the service but was officially placed on the retired list at Greensboro, Ga., in July, 1864. Mr. Mercer then returned to Tennessee and re-entered school, and after completing his education he was engaged as clerk in different mercantile houses for five years. In 1869 he formed a partnership with a brother, W. A. Mercer, and James Little and opened a grocery store in Toone which he continued with some changes in the firm for seven years. In 1876 he and brother opened a store of general merchandise, but in 1883 the brother sold his interest to F. M. McGlathery, now one of the firm. Mr. Mercer also owns 300 acres of land in Fayette, Madison and Hardeman Counties. September 6, 1870, he married Miss Lizzie Cartwright, a lady of Fayette County, born in 1843, and to them have been born eight children, six now living. Mr. Mercer is a Democrat and a member of the Missionary Baptist Church. Mrs. Mercer is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

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Frank M. McGlathery

        Frank M. McC-lathery, of the firm of Mercer & McGlathery of Toone, is a native of Alcorn County, Miss., born June13, 1847, a son of Samuel E. and Nancy S. (Surratt) McGlathery. The parents were married in northern Alabama in 1839, and moved the same year to what is now Alcorn County, Miss., where they have since lived. The father is of Scotch descent, a native of Lincoln County, Tenn., born February 10, 1818. He was engaged in farming until the year 1880 when for four years he sold goods in Corinth, Miss., but since then has lived a retired life. He is a Democrat and a prominent member of the Methodist Episcopal Church South. The mother was born in Alabama June 10, 1821, and is of French ancestry. She is a member of the same church as her husband. Frank M. enjoyed fine educational advantages, receiving a good academical education, after which he clerked in his uncle’s store at Boonsville, Miss., one year. In 1869 he entered the firm of .A. J. Borroum & Co., druggists at Corinth, Miss. In 1870 he secured a position as assistant depot agent at Bolivar, Tenn., and at once began the study of telegraphy and soon became an expert in that branch of railroad work. November, 1872, Mr. McGlathery was appointed operator and agent at Voiden, Miss., and in May, 1873, was transferred to Toone, Tenn., where he was connected with the railroad business for eleven years. He then resigned and has since given his attention exclusively to mercantile interests, and now owns one half interest in a stock of goods valued at $15,000 or $20,000. May 1, 1872, Mr. McGlathery married Miss Mattie E. Mercer, who was born May 14, 1850. Mr. and Mrs. McGlathery are the parents of six children — three sons and three daughters — two sons deceased. Mr. McGlathery is a Democrat and he and wife are influential members of the Methodist Episcopal Church South.

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J. R. Miller

        J. R. Miller, a prosperous farmer and well known resident of the Fourth District, was born July 28, 1853, in the house where he now resides. His parents were John and Mary E. (Bradford) Miller. The father was born in Haywood County, in 1827, the mother in same county, in 1831. They were wedded in 1847, and soon afterward moved to Hardeman County. They had four sons and four daughters, five of whom are living. Both parents were consistent members of the Methodist Church. The father was a stanch Democrat. His chief occupation was farming, which he carried on to a great extent. For twelve years he was interested in merchandising. In all financial matters he was one of the most successful and shrewd men in the county. He was prosperous in all his undertakings. He met a sad and distressing death in 1879; while coming out of a house in Centreville he was shot and instantly killed by an unknown party. The cause of the deed remains enshrouded in mystery. The mother died in 1886. Our subject, owing to delicate health, received but a meager education. When quite a young man he began his career as an independent farmer. In 1877 he married Miss Rebecca Franklin, who was born August 3, 1856, in Hardeman County. She is a sincere member of the Methodist Church, and the mother of two children: Robert P. and John F. Mr. Miller is a conservative in politics, but takes no active part and seldom votes. For three years he has been constable, but does not aspire to offices of public trust. He has always been an enterprising and fortunate agriculturist, owning over 500 acres of land in the best portion of the county. He is deeply interested in the raising of fast, blooded horses. He has Clipper, Tom, Hal, and Highland breeds.

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Martin Moore

        Martin Moore, a prominent farmer of the Fourth District, was born April 11, 1819, in Pitt County, N.C., in which State his parents were born, raised and married. His father, William Moore, while a resident of his native State, was a magistrate for a number of years, and a constable until he was forced to sell the household goods of a family. He was of so kind and sympathetic a disposition, that he resigned rather than perform such duties. He married Miss Frances Forrest, of English origin, by whom he had five sons and three daughters. In 1835 he moved his family to Tennessee, locating in the western district, Haywood County. He was a prosperous farmer and Jeffersonian Democrat. His death occurred in 1836, and his wife’s in 1873. Both were Christian people, true and honorable, but never united with any church. The grandfather Forrest was a faithful soldier of the Revolutionary war. Our subject was raised on a farm; his educational advantages were inferior, but by his own efforts and application he has acquired an extensive amount of practical information. At the age of fourteen he began life for himself. After working as a laborer for ten years, he engaged in agriculture on his own responsibility. By hard work, economy and good management he has prospered to such an extent that he now owns 1,700 acres of land. He belongs to no church, but is liberal to all denominations, charitable institutions, and all who are in distress. For forty-three years he has made his home in Hardeman County, where he is well known as a worthy, honest man. He is a stanch Democrat. In 1841 he married Miss Martha E. Sammons, who was born January 20, 1822. Their union resulted in the birth of twelve children, five of whom live. The oldest son, Gee. W.. was wounded at Perryville, Ky., from the effects of which he died in prison. Benjamin F. was a professor in the Medical College, at Little Rock, Ark. Mrs. Moore was an earnest member of the Primitive Baptist Church. Her death occurred in 1864. In 1868 Mr. Moore wedded Mrs. Elizabeth E. Brogden. by whom he had one son, deceased. Mrs. Moore is a Cumberland Presbyterian.

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James A. Moore

        James A. Moore, Esq., one of the leading farmers of the Fourth District, was born August 8, 1837, in Hardeman County. His parents were William A. and Mary A. (Coates) Moore, both born in Halifax County, Va., the former in 1808 and the latter in 1810. They were married in their native State, residing there until 1836, when they moved to Hardeman County. To their union four sons and four daughters were born, only one surviving. Mr. Moore was an old school Whig, and after the war a Democrat. He never aspired to office of public trust, but preferred the quiet life of a farmer, in which occupation he was prosperous, In 1884 he died, a consistent member of the Missionary Baptist Church, to which his wife also belongs. Mrs. Moore makes her home with her only child, our subject. The grandfather Moore was a major in the war of 1812. J. A. Moore, Esq., was raised on a farm, and educated in the common schools. In 1861 he volunteered in Company E, Seventh Tennessee Cavalry. After a year’s service, and while home on a furlough, he was elected first lieutenant of Company F, Fourteenth Tennessee Cavalry, Confederate Army, holding that rank until the close of the war. During his active and gallant service, he was neither wounded nor taken prisoner. After the restoration of peace he returned to the farm. In 1865 he married Miss Margaret A. Mitchell, who was born January 17, 1843. Their marriage resulted in the birth of seven children — two sons and five daughters. Squire Moore and his estimable wife are active and respected members of the Missionary Baptist Church. Squire Moore is a stanch Democrat. In 1882 he was elected magistrate, which office he still fills. As an agriculturist he has been very successful. He owns about 580 acres of good land. He is well known throughout the entire county, and universally esteemed.

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R. A. Moorman

        Rev. R. A. Moorman, M. D., a well known retired physician and a popular preacher in the Cumberland Presbyterian Church of Hardeman County, is a native of Campbell County, Va., born April 8, 1808, son of M. C. and Easter (Alexander) Moorman, both natives of Campbell County, Va. They were married in that county, and afterward immigrated to Alabama, where they spent the remainder of their lives. R. A. is the third of six children born to this union, and the only one now living. He received an academical education in his native State, and at the age of nineteen came to Hardeman County, Tenn. In 1831 he entered the medical school at Lexington, Ky., where he received his diploma, and after his graduation he returned to this county, and commenced the practice of his profession, where he was a physician of fine reputation until the beginning of the war. In 1836 Dr. Moorman obtained license to preach in the Cumberland Presbyterian Church, and for fifty years has been a faithful minister in this church. While he has been a physician and minister he has also been engaged in farming, and now owns 640 acres of good land in this county. Rev. Moorman has been twice married; for his first wife he married Miss Martha A. Morgan, May 21, 1838, and to this happy union were born eight children — four sons and four daughters. This excellent woman was born in Hardeman County in about 1821, and died March 24, 1857. October 24, 1858, he married Mrs. N. T. (Young) Watson, who was a native of Madison County, and ‘died January 16, 1884. One daughter was born to this union. Both wives were members of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church.

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John T. Morrow

        John T. Morrow was born in Greenville County, S.C., October 4, 1829, the youngest of fourteen children born to Col. William and Jane (Reid) Morrow, both natives of South Carolina. The parents were married in South Carolina about 1812, and in 1834 they came to Tennessee, and settled in Fayette County, where they spent the remainder of their days. The father was of Irish descent, born in 1778, was a farmer, and a member of the Presbyterian Church. He was colonel of the State militia, and a soldier of the war of 1812, and died in Fayette County in 1864. The mother was of Scotch ancestry, born in 1787, a member of the Presbyterian Church, and died in Fayette County in 1873. John T. attended the country schools of Fayette County, and afterward turned his attention to farming, and after forty years spent successfully in Fayette County, he came to Hardeman County and purchased the farm where he now lives. He was a heavy loser by the war, but has regained much of his loss, and now owns 1,150 acres of land. September 14, 1854, Mr. Morrow married Miss Margaret F. Marsh, a daughter of Daniel H. and Mary Marsh, born in Chatham County, N.C., September 20, 1835. Her parents made a settlement in Hardeman County at an early day. Mr. and Mrs. Morrow are the parents of nine children — four sons and five daughters — three now living, two sons and one daughter. Mr. Morrow is a Democrat, and he and wife and daughter are members of the Presbyterian Church.

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Bartley H. Moss

        Bartley H. Moss, a prominent citizen and well-to-do farmer, of Hardeman County, is a native of McMinn County, East Tenn., born September 15, 1836, the sixth of nine children born to Eli and Dicy (Brock) Moss. The parents were natives of South Carolina, and were married in that State. Early in life they immigrated to Tennessee, and settled in McMinn County, where they spent the remainder of their days. The father spent his life in agricultural pursuits, at which he was fairly successful. He was a Democrat in politics and a man who had many warm friends who honored him for his integrity and appreciated him for his kindness of heart. Bartley H. secured a good academical education and having selected farming for an occupation, at an early age began tilling the soil. He lived in McMinn County until the year 1873, when he came to Hardeman County and settled eleven miles southwest of Bolivar where he now lives. He began life rather poor, but by industry, economy and close application to business has secured a competency, now owning 220 acres of land well cultivated. About thirty years ago Mr. Moss was united in marriage to Miss Eliza Martin, who was born in McMinn County about 1836. They are the parents of nine children — four sons and five daughters — all living. Mr. Moss in his political views is rather inclined to the Republican party. Though not a member of any church he is a firm believer in the Christian religion and is an honored and respected citizen of his community.

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P. H. McKinnie

        P. H. McKinnie, M.D., is one of the prominent physicians of Hickory Valley, a native of the same county where he resides, born February 3, 1844, a son of Rev. Arthur and H. D. (Lee) McKinnie, who were natives of North Carolina. The father is a native of Wayne County, born in 1811; was a local preacher in the Methodist Episcopal Church and rendered that church much valuable service. He was also a farmer, at which he was very successful. His death occurred in Hardeman County. The mother was born in Rockingham County in 1810 and died in Hickory Valley in 1886. They were married in Hardeman County. P. H. McKinnie is the youngest of seven children born to his parents and received a good collegiate education. In the fall of 1862 he entered the Confederate States Army and enlisted as a private of volunteers in Company E, Seventh Tennessee Regular Cavalry, and was received in Gen. Forrest’s command under Brig.-Gen. James R. Chalmers. He participated in the battles of Hernando, Miss., Moscow, Tenn., Harrisburg, Miss., Union City, Tenn., Nashville and Franklin; returned home in 1865 and took the oath of allegiance at La Grange, and soon after entered the school at New Castle where he attended one year and then entered the college at Georgetown, Ky., and having chosen the medical profession went in the fall of 1873 to the medical college at Louisville, Ky., where he duly received his diploma in 1880. He then returned to Hardeman County, and located in Hickory Valley, where he soon built up a large practice and has since been a popular and successful physician. February 29, 1876, he married Miss Susan M. Scott, born February 27, 1861, in Hardeman County, and to them has been born the following family: Claude S., born October 24, 1877; Arthur S., born April 28, 1882, and William H., born April 13, 1884. Dr. McKinnie is a Democrat in politics and a consistent member of the Missionary Baptist Church. Mrs. McKinnie is a member of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church.

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Edward A. Mullen

        Edward A. Mullen, planter, of Hardeman County, was born in York County, S.C., February 1, 1827, the oldest of a family of eleven children born to Alexander and Jane (West) Mullen. The father was born in Ireland about 1786, and came to America when twelve years of age. He was a farmer all his life. The mother was of English-Irish descent, born in South Carolina about 1793, and died January, 1877. They were married in South Carolina, and in 1829 immigrated to Tennessee, and after two years they settled in Madison County, where the father died March 13, 1853. Edward A. came to Tennessee when an infant and has spent his entire life in farming in Madison and Hardeman Counties. In 1851 he settled where he now lives, which is one of the best portions of Hardeman County, and owns 1,000 acres of land in this and Madison County. December 13, 1849, Mr. Mullen married Miss Eliza Summers, a native of Madison County, born July 31, 1827. She was a member of the Missionary Baptist Church and died April 11, 1879. May 15, 1881, he married Miss Adaline Westbrook, who is a member of the Missionary Baptist Church. In 1862 Mr. Mullen entered the Confederate Army, was received under Forrest’s command and served under him until the fall of 1864, when he returned home on account of ill health. He is a Democrat and a believer in the Christian religion.

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Rufus P. Neely

        Gen. Rufus P. Neely, an early settler of Hardeman County, is the son of Charles and Lousa (Polk) Neely. The father was born in Virginia in 1787, and when young moved with his parents to Middle Tennessee. The mother was born in North Carolina in 1787, and was the daughter of Col. Ezekial Polk, of Colonial distinction, and the originator of the Polk families in Tennessee. They were among the early settlers of Maury County. The parents of our subject reared a family of four children, all of whom are living. At the breaking out of the war of 1812 Charles Neely, as captain, led a company under Jackson, and while on this campaign he saw a beautiful scope of country near Tuscumbia, Ala., where he moved after the war. He followed farming for a livelihood. In 1820 he passed away while yet in the prime of life. His young widow returned to Maury County, Tenn., and in 1822 came to Hardeman County before Bolivar was started, and when not more than half a dozen families lived in the county. Here she married Dr. C. C. Collier, by whom she had three children, all of whom are deceased. She died in 1869. Our subject was born November 26, 1808, in Maury County, near Spring Hill, and inherited Irish blood from both father and mother. He secured a good academic education, and in 1821 came to Hardeman County on a pony loaded with bacon, in company with Ezekial Polk, before mentioned. Mr. Polk had purchased extensive tracts of land and came to locate them. In 1829 our subject married Elizabeth Lee, and the result of this union was ten children, five of whom are living — one son, a physician at Bolivar, and four daughters. Mr. Neely is a Democrat in politics, and has held the offices of register, county court clerk, and has served in every clerkship in the county. In the Legislature of 1839-40 he represented Henderson County. In the days of militia the General held the position of brigadier-general, and when the trouble arose between Texas and Mexico he offered the services of his command, but his forces were authoritatively disbanded, inasmuch as it was contrary to the law of nations for the Government to allow her troops to participate. In 1839 the General led a company to assist in removing the Indians to their territory. He offered the services of his command in the Seminole war and also in the war with Mexico, but there being a surplus of troops his were left out by lot. In 1861 he enlisted as captain of Company B, Fourth Tennessee Infantry (Confederate Army), and in May of the same year was promoted to colonel of his regiment. During his service he was three times imprisoned, twice at Alton, Ill., and once at Camp Chase, Ohio. For many years he has been intimately connected with the railroad interests of the South. He it was who built the Mississippi Central, of which he was president for several years and receiver by appointment of Gov. Porter; he was president of the Memphis & Knoxville Road, and is now one of the board of directors of the Mississippi & Tennessee Road. For sixty years he has been a resident of Hardeman County, and is one of its most highly respected citizens.

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James J. Neely

        Dr. James J. Neely, Jr., a prominent physician of Bolivar and a son of Gen. R. P. and Elizabeth (Lee) Neely, was born September 12, 1848, in Hardeman County. He was reared on a farm and received his early education at Bolivar, but subsequently attended the University of Mississippi, finishing the sophomore year. In 1863 he enlisted in Company E, Seventh Tennessee Cavalry (Confederate Army), and during eighteen months of service never received a wound nor was he taken prisoner. In 1868 he began the study of medicine under Drs. Moore and Tate, of Bolivar, and entered Bellevue Hospital Medical College, graduating from that institution in 1872. He then located in Bolivar, and has enjoyed a good practice. In 1876 he married Julia A., daughter of Judge Thomas Smith of Memphis. To this union were born three children: Rufus P., Jr., Thomas S. and Francis F. Mrs. Neely is a member of the Episcopal Church. Mr. Neely is a stanch Democrat in politics, and has had the honor of holding the position of health officer of the county and local surgeon of the Illinois Central Railroad. For fourteen years he has been practicing his profession in Bolivar and has met with good and well deserved success, as his many patients now living can testify.

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Thomas M. Newsom

        Thomas M. Newsom, circuit court clerk of Hardeman County, was the sixth of a family of eleven children born to Michael J. and Mary C. (Cosbey) Newsom. The father was a Virginian. He moved to Middle Tennessee when quite a young man. There he was married. During his residence in that section of the State he assisted in the laying of the corner-stone of the State Capitol. About 1850 he settled in Hardeman County, where the remainder of his life was spent. He was a prosperous agriculturist, owning some 700 acres of valuable land. For six years he was magistrate and served eight years as constable. He was a stanch Democrat. He died in 1871, a consistent member of the Methodist Church, to which his wife also belongs. Mrs. Newsom is still living on the homestead. She is about sixty-three years of age, a true Christian woman, beloved by all who know her. Of her family of children ten are living. Our subject, Thomas M., was born in Hardeman County, March 17, 1858. He was raised on a farm. In his early years his educational advantages were very meager, but later he received the benefits of a much better class of schools. At the age of eighteen he began teaching-school, which he continued for about eight years, meeting with considerable success, and giving entire satisfaction to his patrons. In 1886 he was called to the important and honored position which he now holds. Thus far he has proved to be a most efficient officer, and his friends have no doubts concerning his future discharge of duties. He is an ardent Democrat, a genial, intellectual gentleman, well known and highly respected.

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John S. Norment

        John S. Norment, one of the oldest and best known residents of Hardeman County, was born in the county January 31, 1828. His parents were Nathaniel E. and Sarah (Menifee) Norment. The father was a Virginian of English descent; the mother was of English-Dutch extraction, born in Knox County, Tenn. When quite young they moved to Alabama, where they were married and lived until 1826, when they came to Tennessee, settling near Whiteville, Hardeman County. To their union seven children were born, two of whom are living. Both parents were Methodists, but late in life Mrs. Norment united with the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. Her death occurred in 1881. Previous to Mr. Norment’s marriage with Miss Menifee, he had been twice married. By his first wife he had two children, and by the second wife four children. He was one of the most prosperous farmers of the section in which he lived, and built the first and only cotton factory in the county. He departed this life in 1839. The subject of this sketch was raised on a farm, receiving such education as the common schools of that day afforded. At the age of nineteen he engaged in agricultural pursuits, to which he has given his attention since that time. For a short time previous to the war he was interested in merchandising. He is a consistent member of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church, a liberal contributor to all charitable, religious or worthy enterprises. He was an old time Whig, and is now a stanch Democrat. Few men in the county are older or more respected residents than he. In 1847 Mr. Norment married Miss Nancy Burford, born March 10, 1829. To them six sons and five daughters were born. Mrs. Norment died in 1874, a sincere Christian, an estimable woman and devout member of the Methodist Church. Her parents were Dr. Jonathan and Nancy (Chaflin) Burford. The father was a native of North Carolina. Early in life he moved to Alabama, where he was at one time clerk of the court. In 1828, after his marriage, he came to Hardeman County, where he was a successful practicing physician until failing health caused him to retire from active life. He was an old school Whig. His death occurred in 1849. Mrs. Burford was a Virginian, the mother of ten children, of whom only two are living. She died in 1838. Both were members of the Methodist Church.

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William M. Norment

        Rev. William M. Norment, one of the leading and best known ministers in the Cumberland Presbyterian Church, was born September 21, 1829, near where Whiteville now stands. His parents were Nathaniel E. and Sarah (Menifee) Norment. The subject of this sketch was raised in the country, receiving a liberal education in the best schools in the community. When sixteen years of age he took a year’s work at the Cumberland University. At the early age of nineteen he married Miss Martha B. Miller, born November 6, 1831, in Virginia, and brought her to Hardeman County when a mere child. This union resulted in the birth of twelve children, of whom two sons and five daughters are living. The mother and family are all members of the same denomination of which he is a clergyman. After marriage Mr. Norment settled on a farm. He had devoted considerable time to theological study and in 1852 entered the ministry, being ordained two years later, in which noble work he has since been engaged for the past thirty-four years with most favorable and satisfactory results, laboring zealously from a sense of duty, always putting aside pecuniary considerations. In connection with his ministerial duties he was interested, for several years previous to the war and immediately afterward, in mercantile business in Whiteville. He has also run a saw-mill for a number of years. He is still engaged to some extent in farming. He owns about 250 acres of valuable land.

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Jesse Norment

        Hon. Jesse Norment, attorney at law and proprietor of the Bolivar Bulletin, was born Aug. 20, 1849, in Hardeman Co. where he has been raised and received his education in the common schools. He is a son of John S. and Nancy S. (Burford) Norment, also natives of the same county. The mother was born March 10, 1829, and departed this life in 1874, an exemplary Christian, an affectionate wife and mother. The father was born January 31, 1828. He is one of the prosperous agriculturists and most worthy residents of the county. The grandparents on both sides were among the earliest and most respected settlers of Hardeman County. The subject of this sketch entered the Lebanon law school in 1869 and was admitted to the bar one year later, since which time he has been having an extensive and lucrative law practice in his native county. He is a strong and influential Democrat and for several years has led a public life. He first served as mayor of Bolivar, discharging the duties of his office in a highly commendable manner. In 1882-84 he represented Hardeman and McNairy Counties in the State Senate, and in 1886 had the honor of being re-elected, which was a practical demonstration of the regard in which he is held by the people. He is an able lawyer, an efficient public servant and a courteous, popular man. In 1873 he married Miss Sallie Black, who was born January 21, 1855, in Bolivar, Tenn. Their union has been blessed with four interesting children: Hamilton, Nancy E., Jesse B. and Maggie. Mr. and Mrs. Norment are members of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church.

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William Nuckolls

        William Nuckolls, an old and highly esteemed resident of Hardeman County, was born August 15, 1804, in Robertson County, Tenn. His parents were Richard and Temperance (Walton) Nuckolls; both were natives of Virginia and came to Middle Tennessee about 1798. They had a family of five sons and two daughters, our subject being the youngest and only surviving one. He received a very limited education. In 1824 he located in Hardeman County where he has since resided. In 1852 he wedded Zarilda Cotton, who was born in 1818. To them were born six children, of whom two sons and two daughters are living. Mr. Nuckolls was for a short time magistrate, having received his appointment from Brownlow. He has been a Democrat nearly all his life and during the war was a strong Union man. His chief occupation has been the saw-mill business in which he has amassed quite a snug fortune. He is also interested in farming. He began life without capital but by industry and attention to his affairs is now the possessor of about 2,600 acres of fine land. He has lived in Hardeman County many years and is universally regarded as an able, substantial and worthy citizen. Neither Mr. nor Mrs. Nuckolls have ever united with any denomination.

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John W. Nuckolls

        John W. Nuckolls, M.D., a well known physician and extensive planter, a resident of Toone, Hardeman Co., Tenn., is a native of the county where he resides, born December 7, 1840, the fourth of nine children, eight now living, born to Starling and Narcissa (Whitaker) Nuckolls. The father was of Welsh descent, born in Virginia in 1784, but when a child came to Tennessee and settled in Robertson County. He was engaged in farming and the milling business and was a prominent man of his day. He died in 1860. It is thought the mother was a native of Lincoln County, Tenn. She was much younger than her husband and died in Hardeman County in 1876. John W. in the fall of 1861 entered the Confederate States Army and joined what was known as Capt. J. J. Neely’s company of cavalry and was received in Forrest’s command. He served two years under him but was captured in December, 1863, and was held as a prisoner of war several weeks in Bolivar, but was finally released upon taking the oath of allegiance. December 5, 1867, he married Miss Fannie R. Anderson, daughter of Edward Anderson, of Hardeman County. She was born in 1845, and they are the parents of eight children, six now living. Immediately after his marriage he began the study of medicine, and in 1870-71 attended the Medical College of Nashville, after which he returned home and began practicing in connection with Dr. J. R. Anderson establishing a drug store at the same time. Dr. Nuckolls dissolved partnership with Dr. Anderson after two years’ connection. He now owns a fine residence in Toone valued at $5,000, besides 4,000 acres of land in Hardeman and Madison Counties. Dr. Nuckolls is a Democrat in politics and his religious views are in sympathy with the Missionary Baptist Church.

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Noah C. Nuckolls

        Noah C. Nuckolls, one of the leading livery men of Bolivar, is a son of William and Zarilda (Cotton) Nuckolls, and was born September 8, 1855, in Hardeman County. He was reared on a farm and had good educational advantages. After reaching manhood he spent some time in Texas, Middle Tennessee and Arkansas. He then returned to Hardeman County and farmed till 1885, when he moved to Bolivar and opened a livery stable, which he is now operating with evident success. Though in business only a short time Mr. Nuckolls has succeeded in gaining his share of the patronage of the county. Mr. Nuckolls’ fine rigs for the accommodation of the public are to be had at the very lowest prices. Those having had any business transactions with him have found him pleasant and prompt in all his dealings.

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T. A. Parran

        T. A. Parran, farmer of Hardeman County, was born June 18, 1829, in Memphis and received a rather limited education. On reaching manhood he began his career as a farmer, which he has continued up to the present. In 1848 he married Maria Wood, a native of Hardeman County, born in August, 1830, and to them were born three children: David, Anna and Thomas C. Both he and wife and all the children are members of the Presbyterian Church. In politics Mr. Parran has always been a Democrat. He is not one who aspires to places of public trust. but performs the duties of a public-spirited citizen. He holds the position of alderman of the town of Bolivar. In 1875 he came to this town and has been engaged to some extent in selling machinery in partnership with his son David. His chief occupation is superintending his plantation, which consists of 1,200 acres. He has made this county his home the principal part of his life, and is considered an excellent citizen. His parents, Thomas O. and Anna (Carr) Parran, were natives of Calvert County, Md., and Albemarle County, Va., respectively. They were married in Memphis and to this union was born one child, a son. By occupation the father was a journalist, having established one of the first newspapers of Memphis. He died while in the prime of life, and his widow soon followed him.

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James M. Pettigrew

        James M. Pettigrew, a prominent farmer of Hardeman County, was born in Haywood County, Tenn., October 24, 1843, a son of Samuel E. and Nancy (Nicholson) Pettigrew. The father was born in Virginia, and the mother in North Carolina, but were brought to this county when very young, and here they married. To them a family of eleven children were born of whom one son, and one daughter are living. The father when only a boy served under Jackson, at New Orleans. He was a stanch Democrat. Although not a church member he was an honest and esteemed man. By trade he was a carpenter and assisted in building the first houses in. Bolivar. After living in this county many years, they moved to Haywood County, where the mother died in 1859. During the war the father went to Arkansas where he died. The subject of this sketch was raised on a farm, receiving a good common-school education. He began life for himself at the age of seventeen. Some time afterward he engaged in the grocery business. In 1870 he married Mrs. L. L. Miller, nee Doyle, who was born May 19, 1841. By her first marriage she had two children, of whom Mary is living. To Mr. and Mrs. Pettigrew seven children were born, five of whom are living: Carrie B., James C., Joseph V., Edna L. and Nannie P. Soon after marriage Mr. Pettigrew moved to Humboldt, Tenn., engaging in the cultivation of fruits. In 1S79 they returned to Hardeman County, settling at Centerville, where they have a fine farm, consisting of about 665 acres. He is an industrious, prosperous and most worthy citizen. He and his estimable wife are members of the Missionary Baptist Church.

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W. A. Pledge

        W. A. Pledge, a resident and undertaker of Grand Junction, was born December 1, 1823, in Virginia, and immigrated to Tennessee in 1849, locating in the immediate vicinity of his present residence, where he has since lived. His parents were Archie and Mary E. (Garthright) Pledge, both natives of Virginia. The father was born January 1, 1782, and came to Hardeman County in 1850, where he died June, 1858. The mother was born in 1791, and departed this life in 1861. They were respected, good people. The subject of this sketch on his arrival to this place entered upon his present occupation, in connection with various branches of mechanical trade. November 1, 1849, he married Elvia W. Yancy, a native of North Carolina, whose parents came to Tennessee about 1837. This marriage resulted in the birth of Olivia, wife of E. L. Estep, present proprietor of the Stonewall Hotel; Joel A., whose death occurred in 1862; and William W., died in 1878. Mr. Pledge entered the Confederate service in 1862, in Company G, Thirteenth Tennessee Infantry. July 22, 1864, at Atlanta, Ga., he was shot in the right shoulder, which disabled him for further service, but his feelings were so strong, that he did not return home until the surrender. He is a stanch Democrat, and has been an active, consistent member of the Missionary Baptist Church since 1842. He is in good standing with the Masonic order and K. of H. He is one of the most substantial and worthy citizens in the entire community.

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Oscar B. Polk

        Oscar B. Polk, an extensive planter of Hardeman County, is a native of the county where he resides, born March 1, 1849. He came of the old Polk family of State and national fame, and was a near relative of James K. Polk. For sketch of parents see biography of Thomas Polk. Oscar B. received good educational advantages in youth afterward attending the St. Louis University and the Oxford College of Mississippi. After completing his education he engaged in agricultural pursuits on his father’s farm until 1871 when his father died. He then took charge of the farm which was a large cotton plantation and fine success attended his efforts. November 25, 1879, Mr. Polk was united in marriage to Mrs. Ada C. Lowe, whose maiden name was Boyle, an accomplished lady, a native of Hardeman County, born in 1852. Mr. and Mrs. Polk are parents of two children: Oscar B. and Ada C. Mr. Polk has been an active business man all his life and is perhaps the most extensive planter in the county. He also owns a third interest in the firm of Polk, May & Scott at Hickory Valley, and owns over 5,000 acres of land in Tennessee, Arkansas and Texas. He is not a member of any church but a believer in the Bible and a man of good moral character. Mrs. Polk is a member of the Roman Catholic Church.

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Thomas Polk

        Thomas Polk, a well known merchant of New Castle, Hardeman Co., Tenn., is a native of the county where he resides, born November 27, 1852, a son of J. J. and T. J. (Bowels) Polk. The father was a native of North Carolina, born in 1808 and died in Hardeman County, September, 1871. The mother was born in Virginia, in 1816, and died in Hardeman County in 1879. In early life the father immigrated to Tennessee and settled in Hardeman County, where he spent the remainder of his life as a farmer, and was one of the most extensive planters in the county. He was a Democrat in politics, and he and wife were devout members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Our subject came of one of the most eminent families that has ever made a home in Tennessee, J. K. Polk, the President, being one of its illustrious members, Thomas secured a good education in his youth, and after farming until 1872 he then established a store in New Castle, and since then has been an active merchant and has secured a fair competency. He now owns a stock of goods valued at $10,000, and owns 800 acres of good land in the county. July 15, 1874, Mr. Polk married Miss Willie Roders, a highly cultured lady, a native of Louisiana, born March 1, 1855. To this union have been born four children: John J., born April 28, 1875; Florence E., born May 17, 1877; Sarah T., born August 20, 1879, and Lola M., born November 27, 1881. Mr. Polk is a Democrat and he and wife are influential members of the Methodist Episcopal Church South.

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Thomas E. Prewitt

        Dr. Thomas E. Prewitt, a leading and skillful physician and surgeon of Grand Junction, was born July 31, 1838, in South Carolina, of which State his parents were also natives. His father, James Prewitt, was born November, 1797, and moved to Hardeman County in 1845, and there died in 1875. His wife was Elizabeth Hill, born in 1804 and died in this county October, 1869. The grandfather Prewitt’s name was David. The maternal grandfather was an Englishman by birth and an extensive agriculturist of South Carolina, where he resided for many years. Our subject is the sixth of nine children. He was raised on a farm, attending the schools in the vicinity. At the age of nineteen he entered Bethel College, at McLemoresville, Carroll County, where he continued for three years. he then returned home and began the study of medicine with his brother, Dr. N. H. Prewitt. In 1859 he began a course at the Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia, Penn., and graduated at the University of Nashville, February, 1861. The spring of the same year be began practicing at Grand Junction. Soon afterward the late war broke out, and with others he entered the Fourth Tennessee Infantry, Confederate service. In a short time he was made surgeon of artillery, and the spring of 1862 was assigned surgeon of the Twelfth Tennessee infantry, which he retained until the surrender. After peace was restored he went to Arkansas, locating in Drew County, where he remained until 1875, when he moved to present place of residence, forming a partnership with his brother. Dr. Nathan Prewitt, who was medical railroad inspector, employed by the National Board of Health. Dr. Thomas E. Prewitt was surgeon of the Illinois Central Railroad, and inspector of the State and National Boards of Health during the yellow fever siege of 1879, and is now director of the board of health at Grand Junction, which position he has filled for past eight years. He is one of the most popular and successful physicians and surgeons inn the county, and has performed some wonderful operations within most favorable results. He is of good social standing, highly respected, a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church South, and prominently connected with the Masonic order and K. of H., also a stanch Democrat. July, 1866, the Doctor wedded a daughter of Judge Dudley Dix Daniel of North Carolina, Miss M. E. Daniel. To this union seven children were born, five of whom are living: Dudley, James H., Malcolm Lee Roy, Bennona F. and Thomas W.

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T. P. Pulliam

        T. P. Pulliam, a well known farmer of Hardeman County, is a native of Montgomery County, N.C., born October 6. 1822, the sixth of sixteen children born to Silas and Sarah (Morgan) Pulliam, both natives of Montgomery County, N.C., where they were married. In 1837 they immigrated to Tennessee and settled in Hardeman County. This father, who was a farmer, was a Democrat in politics and was born in 1787 and died in Hardeman County December 4, 1873. a worthy member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. The mother, who was several years younger than the father, was a devout member of the same church as her husband; she died in about 1862. T. P. secured by his own efforts, a good academical education and at an early day began farming. At the age of fifteen he came with his parents to Hardeman County, and except about six years spent elsewhere he has made this his home ever since. In 1874 he settled where he now lives, sixteen miles southwest of Bolivar. Mr. Pulliam has been a man of unusual energy all his life and has been very successful as a planter. He began life poor but with a good name, and by industry and economy has secured a fine competency. Although he lost considerable by the late war, he yet owes, clear of all encumbrances, upward of 800 acres of good land in his county. December 19, 1854, he married Mrs. Martha J. (Reagan) Hinson, a native of Hardeman County, born April 6, 1828. They are the parents of nine children, five now living. Mr. Pulliam is a stanch Democrat and is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church South. Mrs. Pulhiam and three children are members of the same church.

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William and Tabitha Reynolds

        Prominent among the early settlers of Hardeman County were William and Tabitha (Coburn) Reynolds, both natives of North Carolina. In 1824 William came to Hardeman County and helped clear the forest from the spot where the town of Bolivar now stands. Some time after this he married and settled in this county, making it his permanent home. Their family consisted of seven children, only three now living. The father was a Democrat before the war and a strong out-spoken Union man afterward. For a calling in life he followed manufacturing and selling furniture. He died in 1878. The mother is still living, is over three score and ten years of age and is a member of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. William H., the eldest son of William and Tabitha (Coburn) Reynolds, was born June 21, 1837, in Bolivar, where he received his education. At the age of eighteen he took charge of his father’s business, learning the cabinet-maker’s trade, at which he has worked ever since. In 1867 he married Jennie Estes, and the fruits of this union were six children, five of whom are living. In 1859 William H. went to Arkansas, where he remained for some time. In 1866 he returned to Bolivar and since then has been engaged in the undertaking and furniture business. In 1884 he opened a grocery and hardware store and is engaged in this business at the present. He is also somewhat interested in farming. He is a Democrat in politics and for forty-nine years has made this county his home. Twenty years of that time he was intimately associated with the business interests of Bolivar. Although not a church member, he is liberal toward churches, schools and all other worthy enterprises. He also took an active part in raising the funds and helped survey the grounds, etc., for the new asylum. He is of Scotch-Irish origin.

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Abraham Rhea

        Dr. Abraham Rhea, a leading and skillful physician of Whiteville, was born February 25, 1830, in Maury County, Tenn. His parents were Matthew and Mary (Looney) Rhea, both natives of Sullivan County, Tenn. Thie father was of Scotch-Irish extraction. He was married and resided in Maury County until 1836, when he moved to Fayette County and there passed the remainder of his life. His family consisted of thirteen children, only five of whom are living. He and his wife were consistent members of the Presbyterian Church. Mr. Rhea was a man of great culture and intellect. He had a thorough liberal education and was considered a fine classical scholar. In early life he completed a law course but never practiced to any great extent. After abandoning his profession he taught school awhile, then turned his attention to farming, but spent a great portion of his time with his books, of which he was very fond. He made the first map of Tennessee, taken from a survey of the State. At Somerville there is also a map he drewof Fayette County. He died in 1870 at the age of seventy-five years. Mrs. Rhea, who was of English descent, departed this life in 1884, having attained the full ripe age of eighty. The grandfather, Mathiew Rhea, was an officer of the Revolutionary war; for his gallantry, had the honor of being presented with a very fine sword by the distinguished Gen. Greene. The great-grandfather, Joseph Rhea, was a graduate of the University of Glasgow, Scotland, and was a Presbyterian minister. The subject of our sketch spent his early days on a farm; later he lived in Somerville, where his literary education was received. At the age of eighteen he began the study of medicine under the guidance of Dr. A. F. McKenzie. In 1853 he graduated at the Memphis Medical College. After several years of extensive practice, he became a great sufferer from rheumatism and afterward sold drugs for three years. In 1861 he volunteered in Company B, of the Thirteenth Tennessee Infantry, Confederate service. After serving some fourteen months, he stood an examination and was appointed surgeon, remaining in that position until close of the war, when he came to Whiteville to practice medicine. He has met with unusual success, receiving a liberal and lucrative patronage. He is acknowledged throughout the section as one of the most able and popular physicians. In 1869 he married Miss Emma L. Cross, who was born in 1846. To their union three sons and four daughters have been born. Mrs. Rhea is a member of the Methodist Church and the Doctor of the Presbyterian. He is also a strong Democrat and was a Whig previous to the war.

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John S. Robertson

        Dr. John S. Robertson, a farmer and retired physician of Whiteville, was born July 7, 1819, in Wake County, N.C., the only survivimig member of a family of nine children born to John and Mary (Barrham) Robertson. The father was a native of the same State and county as his son. The mother was born in Virginia, but immigrated with her parents when a small child to North Carolina, where sue was married. Both were of Scotch-Irish extraction. In 1820 they moved to Madison County, Tenn., being among the first settlers west of the Tennessee River. They were not connected with any church, but were honorable and respected people. The father was a Whig; during his entire life was a planter and very prosperous. He employed a large number of hands. His death occurred in 1821, after which the mother lived with her family until 1852, when she departed this life. The subject of this sketch was raised on a farm and educated in the old field schools. About the time he attained his majority, he began the study of medicine; afterward took a course in the Ohio Eclectic Medical School at Cincinnati, where he graduated ni 1844. He immediately began to practice in Henderson County, and in 1848 located in Hardeman County, three miles west of Whiteville, where he engaged in the exercise of his profession, and also agriculture, meeting with success in each. In 1870 he moved into the town, where he has since resided. For fifteen years he was postmaster, at same time keeping a drug store. After thirty-four years of active and profitable practice he retired from his professional duties in 1880, and since that time has been giving his: attention to his plantations. He owns some 700 acres of valuable land. Before the war he was a Whig but since that time has affiliated with the Democratic party. In 1844 the Doctor married Miss Amanda M. Wood, born in Henderson County, October 1, 1826. To their union three sons and one daughter were born: Andrew L., who was in the army under Gen. Forrest’s command, and was killed at the battle of Memphis; Eugenia C., Christopher W., also in Forrest’s command; and John B. Mrs. Robertson was a true Christian woman, an earnest member of the Methodist Church. Her death occurred in 1860. Three years later the Doctor wedded Miss Nannie M. Carnes, who was born April 4, 1835. This marriage resulted in the birth of two children: Mary W. and Carnes. The Doctor and Mrs. Robertson are active and esteemed members of the Methodist Church.

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Wiley W. Sammons

        Elder Wiley W. Sammons, a prominent farmer of the Cedar Chapel District, was born in Hardeman County, November 11, 1827. His parents were Allen and Sallie (Long) Sammons, both of whom were of English extraction, born in Sussex County, Va., the father in 1788 and the mother in 1795. They were married in 1811, remaining in their native State until 1827, when they came to Hardeman County, being among the early settlers. Eleven children blessed their union, of whom only two are living. Mr. and Mrs. Sammons were zealous Christians. For thirty-three years he was one of the most faithful and active ministers that the Primitive Baptist Church ever had. All his efforts in the noble work were given without price or money. In connection with his ministerial duties he engaged in farming and was one of the most prosperous agriculturists of the county. He was a fife major in the war of 1812. He was a strong, straight Democrat. He departed this life in 1862, and two years later the mother, too, passed away. The subject of this sketch was raised on a farm, receiving a fair education. He remained beneath the paternal roof until he attained manhood’s estate, then began farming on his own responsibility, and met within unusual success. Twice he was financially wrecked — once by the war, and again by parties whom he assisted when they were embarrassed, and they afterward proved faithless. Being possessed of a brave heart and much determination, he was soon again in flourishing circumstances, and now owns 312 acres of valuable land. For twenty-six years he has labored as an elder without pecuniary considerations of any kind. Although he has ridden thousands of miles between North Mississippi, West Tenmiessee and western Kentucky, he has never served for a salary. In 1850 he married Miss Martha F. Wilkes, a daughter of Joseph Wilkes. Mrs. Sammons was born October 16, 1833. A true Christian woman, and member of the Primitive Baptist Church, she died in 1885. Of the ten children born of this union, three daughters and two sons are living. J. A., the eldest son, is a minister. Late in the year of 1885 he wedded Miss Susan A. Price, who was born October 22, 1843. For fifty-nine years Mr. Sammons has made Hardeman County his home and has seen the country change from a wilderness to a fine farming district. His family is one of the oldest, most useful and honored in the community.

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J. D. Sasser

        Dr. J. D. Sasser, a respected resident and popular physician of Middleton, was born September 18, 1846, in Hardeman County. His parents, John and Mary Ann (Ewing) Sasser, were natives of North Carolina. The father was born in 1784, and immigrated to Tennessee at a very early day, settling in the Twelfth Civil District of Hardeman County, where he remained until his death in 1876. The mother was born about 1818, of Irish origin. She bore three sons and three daughters, all of whom with their aged and beloved parents are still living. The Doctor was brought up on a farm, and educated in the common schools. In 1872 he began the study of medicine under guidance of Dr. T. B. McKey, and entered the Medical University of Louisville September, 1874, graduating March 1, 1876, and returned to the old homestead where he commenced the practice of his chosen profession. In December, 1877, he moved to Middleton where he has since enjoyed an extensive and lucrative practice, in cominection with which he is interested in merchandise business, the firm being known as J. D. Sasser & Co. He is a devout member of the Missionary Baptist Church, and belongs to the Masonic order and K. of H. He is a stanch Democrat. October 1, 1868, the Doctor married Rachel M. Grantham, whose father, Thomas G., was one of the pioneer settlers of Tennessee. To this union two children were born: Rachel Ann. and Margaret Grantham. Mrs. Sasser died September 25, 1872. The Doctor married again January 23, 1878, to Isabella Swineboard of Bolivar, Tenn. There is no inssue.

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J. D. Sauls

        Dr. J. D. Sauls, a prominent resident and physiciamin of Saulsbury, of English descent, was born October 18, 1833, in Hardeman County. His parents were Burrell and Jane (Mathis) Sauls. The father was born in North Carolina, August 17, 1800. He went to Alabama in 1819, and shortly afterward immigrated to Tennessee, locating in Hardeman County. He was a very prosperous and respected man. The town of Saulsbury was named in honor of him. He donated considerable property for a depot site, and did all in his power for the improvement of the place. The mother was born in Georgia in 1812, and departed this life April, 1886. The subject of this sketch was raised in Saulsbury. He began the study of medicine January, 1854. He entered the Jefferson Medical College at Philadelphia, Penn., October of 1854, and graduated at the University of Louisiana at New Orleans, in 1853. He returned to his native home where he has since resided, and enjoyed the benefit of an extensive and lucrative practice. He is a substantial and worthy citizen, esteemed by all who know him. He is connected with the Masonic order, and is a stanch Democrat. September, 1857, the Doctor married Diza Ann Jones, who died in 1873, without issue. He was wedded in 1874 to Mrs. A. M. Jones, whose husband died in October 1867 of yellow fever. She is a daughter of J. M. and S. E. Oliver, whose births occurred respectively in 1800 and 1806, and died in 1842 and 1869. To Dr. and Mrs. Sauls two children have been born: Diza E., who died in 1882, and Joseph. Mrs. Sauls has two children by her first union: Moses L. and Mollie V. Jones. The Doctor and wife are consistent and active members of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church.

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Jefferson C. Savage

        Jefferson C. Savage, trustee of Hardeman County, was born May 27, 1820, in Monroe County, Ky. He is the only surviving one of a family of twelve children born to Hamilton and Elizabeth (Martin) Savage, both of whom were born, raised and married in North Carolina. Soon after marriage Mr. Savage moved to Kentucky, and about 1824 to Tennessee, locating in Hardeman County. He served in the war of 1812. He was a Whig before the civil war, and afterward a strong Democrat. He was a successful farmer. After the death of his first wife, he married Mrs. Paie. He was of English descent, and Mrs. (Martin) Savage, Scotch-Irish. Both were members of the Missionary Baptist Church. He died in 1865 at the age of eighty-four. The grandfather was a soldier of the Revolutionary war; by birth a Virginian. He lived to the remarkable age of one hundred and ten years. The subject of this sketch was raised on a farm. His educational advantages were very limited, attending school only about twelve months. He was an affectionate, dutiful son; devoted himself to his parents as long as they lived. In 1843 he married Miss Lucy Dean, who was born in 1811. To them six children were born — two sons and four daughters — two of whom are living: Giles M., and Eudora F., wife of W. F. Prewitt, a farmer of the county. In 1878 Mrs. Savage died. She was a member of the Missionary Baptist Church. Four years later Mr. Savage married Mrs. Sallie Black. There is no issue. 1862 Mr. Savage entered the army, first in Capt. Wilson’s company, and shortly afterward was transferred to the company of Capt Wiley Higgs of which he was made first lieutenant, serving in that capacity until close of war. During all of his active and gallant service he was neither wounded nor captured. After the restoration of peace he began farming, continuing until 1872 when he was called to his present position. He has discharged the duties of his office in such a satisfactory and creditable manner that he has been re-elected eight times in succession. He has resided in the county for sixty-one years. He began life as a poor man, but by honesty, industry and enterprise has accumulated nearly 900 acres of fine land and considerable means. He is a generous contributor to all charitable and religious institutions. He is an esteemed and worthy citizen. Mr. and Mrs. Savage are both consistent members of the Missionary Baptist Church.

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Reuben S. Scott

        Reuben S. Scott, farmer of Hardeman County and resident of Hickory Valley, is a native of Wake County, N.C., born February 23, 1825, son of Joseph and Susanna (Halliburton) Scott. The parents were both natives of Wake County where they were married and lived all their lives. The father was born in 1781 and was of Scotch descent. He was a planter by occupation; for a number of years held the office of magistrate and was at one time deputy sheriff of his county. He served as second lieutenant of infantry in the war of 1812 and died in his native county at the age of eighty-seven years. The mother was of English ancestry, born about 1786 and died in the ninety-fourth year of her age. Reuben S. is the eleventh of a family of twelve children and secured a good education. In 1849 he immigrated to Hardeman County, Tenn., and with the exception of two years has ever since innade it his home. In 1862 he enlisted as first lieutenant in Company L, Thirteenth Tennessee Regiment (Infantry), was received in Cheatham’s division and participated in the battles of Shiloh, Richmond, Perrysville and Murfreesboro, and on account of ill health was honorably discharged in 1863. In 1868 he purchased the farm thirteen miles southwest of Bolivar where he lived five years, but early in 1874 he moved to Hickory Valley and has since been one of its substantial residents. He owns upward of 400 acres of land, besides a town lot within sixty acres connected. May 23, 1850, Mr. Scott married Miss Ehiza J. Perry, a native of Chatham County, N.C., born October 27, 1827. To this marriage have been born eight children, three of whom are living. Mr. Scott is a Democrat in politics and he and family are members of the Cumberhand Presbyterian Church.

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Thomas Shea

        Squire Thomas Shea, a respected resident of Pocahontas, Hardeman County, was born February 1, 1844, in Kerry County, Ireland. He was the oldest of six children born to John and Bridget Shea; all are living. The father died December, 1880. Our subject with parents immigrated to America in 1852; they located in Memphis, Tenn., where they resided three years, then moved to Pocahontas where they have since made their home. Squire Shea entered the Confederate service in 1861, at the early age of sixteen years, in Company F, Ninth Tennessee Infantry. At Shiloh, April 7, 1862, he was shot through the left lung, the ball entering about the seventh rib, and coming out near the spinal column. This wound disabling him for active infantry service, he consequently joined the cavalry troops, remaining with them until the close of the war. He was captured May, 1863, near Tupelo, Miss., and imprisoned at Alton, Ill. He was soon afterward exchanged. He was again taken prisoner October, 1863, at Bolivar but made his escape. After the surrender he returned home and engaged in farming until 1878, when he embarked in merchandise, continuing in that line until February, 1886. He was elected magistrate of the Nineteenth District in 1876, and has served the people in that capacity up to present date. He is acting justice of the peace. October 1, 1865, he married Mollie E., daughter of Thomas H. and Helen E. Neese, nee Patterson. This union resulted in the birth of six children: John Neese, Clara E., Robert E., Mary Helen, Daniel O’Connell and James Mack. Squire Shea is a self-made man, and respected, worthy citizen. He has always been honest and industrious, by which means he has been enabled to accumulate considerable means and property. He is a devout and consistent member in good standing of the Roman Catholic Church, and a sound Democrat.

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Benjamin A. Simmons

        Benjamin A. Simmons, a prosperous farmer of the Fourth District, was born October 3, 1834, in Halifax County, N.C. He was the only son of James B. and Sarah (Worrell) Simmons, both of whom were born, raised and married in 1829, in same county and State that Benjamin was. They had four children. In 1853 the family moved to Hardeman County, where the mother, who was a Primitive Baptist, died in 1867. Mr. Simmons was of English origin. He was a strong Democrat, and served many years as magistrate, in his native State. By occupation he was a farmer, owning quite an extensive plantation. In 1883 he wedded Miss Clara Willoughby, and in 1886 departed this life. The grandparents on both sides were Virginians. The subject of this sketch spent his early life on a farm. He received an excellent academic education. He made his home within his parents until long after his majority. In 1861 he married a daughter of Thos. H. Harris, Miss Martha O., who was born in Hardeman County, September 20, 1844. Their union has been blessed with two sons and three daughters. In 1861 Mr. Simmons volunteered with the South. Shortly afterward he returned home and joined the One Hundred and Fifty-fourth Senior Regiment of Tennessee, serving until the close of the war. He was never captured, but received a severe wound at the battle of Jonesboro, Ga., and two others less serious. After the restoration of peace, he returned home and found all of his stock, provisions and household goods destroyed and gone. He began with absolutely nothing, but by industry and judicious management has met with great success, and now owns 1,400 acres of laud. Thirty-three years he has lived in Hardeman County where he is universally and favorably known. He is very liberal to all churches, schools or beneficial enterprises.

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Robert W. Smith

        Robert W. Smith, farmer and magistrate of the Ninth Civil District of Hardeman County, is a native of what is now Chester County, but at that time was a part of Henderson. He was born March 17, 1847, and is the fourth of six children, all now living born to Dr. John D. and Isabella (Dickson) Smith. They were married in Chester County about the year 1841. The father was a physician of large practice, and spent thirty years of his life in this profession. He was probably of English extraction; was a native of North Carolina, born in 1804 and died in Chester County, January 25, 1881. The mother was of Scotch-Irish descent, born in 1807, and died in Chester County in 1851. They were both influential members of the Missionary Baptist Church. Robert W. was principally educated at the college for gentlemen at Jackson, Tenn., and after completing his education he taught school for two years. In 1870 he formed a partnership with William G. Moore, and established a general merchandise store, which business he soon exchanged for the more congenial occupation of farming. In 1871 he took charge of the farm where he now lives, a portion of it coming into his possession by his marriage. He now owns 1,500 acres of land, six improved lots in the town of Henderson, and a steam cotton-gin and grist-mill. August 25, 1869, Mr. Smith married Miss Hattie A. Ham, daughter of Daniel and Harriett Ham. The father died June 1, 1871, and the mother is still living, making her home within her daughter. Mr. and Mrs. Smith have two children: R. Frank, born August 3, 1874, and Joseph Dickson Smith, an adopted son. Mr. Smith has held the office of magistrate for eight years, is a Democrat, and he and wife are members of the Missionary Baptist Church.

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Elias B. Stewart

        Ehias B. Stewart, planter, is a native of Jefferson County, Ala., born November 3, 1832, the fifth of a family of mine children born to Elias and Elcy (Neighbors) Stewart. The parents were married in Alabama, and in 1835 came to Tennessee and settled in Hardeman County, where they spent the remainder of their lives. The father was born in 1801 in Middle Tennessee, was a farmer, and a Democrat, and died in 1854. The mother was a native of Jefferson County, Ala., and died in 1866. Elias B. secured good educational advantages in youth, and began farming at an early age. When an infant he came with his parents to Hardeman County, and has ever since made it his home with the exception of four years, when he was in the Confederate Army. In 1862 he enlisted with the South and was received into Forrest’s cavalry, participating at Shiloh and Chickamauga and several other important engagements. He was honorably discharged in the spring of 1865 in Mississippi, and then returned home to resume farming. In 1873 he purchased the farm where he now lives, eleven miles west of Bolivar, and has made life a success, owning at present 1,280 acres of good land, besides owning a steam cotton-gin and grist-mill. January 27, 1859, Mr. Stewart married Miss Lucy M. Farris, a native of Hardeman County, born in 1836, and an estimable lady. They are the parents of eight children, six of whom are living. He is a Democrat in politics, and a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mrs. Stewart and five children are members of the same church.

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Thomas C. Stuart

        Thomas C. Stuart, a leading merchant of Whiteville, is the eldest of six children born to Arlington C. and Mary F. (Rochelle) Stuart. The father was of Scotch-Irish descent, born in Sussex County, Va., in 1816; the mother is of French origin, born in Southampton County, Va., in 1826. In 1844 they were married and moved to Haywood County, Tenn., spending a portion of their time in that and Madison County, until Mr. Stuart’s death, which occurred in 1861. He was a Democrat. Although not a member of any church he was an honest respected and intelligent man. He and his wife were highly educated, and engaged in schoolteaching many years, which profession Mrs. Stuart still follows. After her husband’s death she and her children settled in Hardeman County, where she is generally known, and is an esteemed member of the Missionary Baptist Church. The subject of this sketch was born September 4, 1845, in Haywood County. He was raised on a farm, forming a taste f or that sort of life; he began agricultural pursuits on his own responsibility at the age of sixteen. In 1863 he volunteered in Company K, Fourteenth Tennessee Cavalry, Confederate service. He soon became courier for the colonel of his regiment, so continuing until the close of the war. After the restoration of peace he resumed his farming, and in 1869 married Mrs. Henrietta C. Sammons, daughter of Joseph Wilkes. By her first marriage she had two children, and four by the union with Mr. Stuart. He is a member of the Missionary Baptist Church, and his wife belongs to the Cumberland Presbyterian. In 1879 Mr. Stuart moved into Whiteville; he was interested in various kinds of business. In 1884 he established a grocery store, since which time he has added a stock of dry goods, and is still engaged in farming. He has been a magistrate for the past four years, still holding that position. He has made his home in Hardeman County for a quarter of a century, and been intimately connected with the mercantile interests of Whiteville for several years. He is accounted a man of fine ability, and honorable and worthy citizen. He is a Democrat.

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H. W. Tate

        Dr. H. W. Tate, one of the leading physicians of Bolivar, was born March 14, 1840, in Burke County, N.C., and is a son of William Caldwell Tate, who was also a native of North Carolina. The father was of Irish descent and a graduate of the medical colleges at Charleston, S.C., and Philadelphia, Penn. He was a skillful physician and a prominent man. He married Mrs. Laura (Wilson) Polk, a widow within two children. By her union with Mr. Tate she became the mother of seven children — four sons and three daughters. The oldest son, J. W., is a grocery and commission merchant, and is doing a lucrative business. Robert A. is a practicing physician and J. K. a farmer. The mother was of English extraction and died in 1848. Her husband followed her in death in 1868. Our subject received a liberal education, completing the same at Davidson College, North Carolina. After a course of medical lectures at the University of New York he graduated at the Richmond Medical College of Virginia in 1861, and immediately afterward entered the Confederate Army as surgeon, in Stonewall Jackson’s command, where he continued until the close of the war. In 1866 he came to Bolivar, where he has since resided, engaged in an extensive and lucrative practice. He is also the owner of some valuable land and considerable means. In 1867 he married Fannie, the daughter of Robert H. Wood, one of the leading lawyers of West Temmnessee and the granddaughter, on the maternal side, of Maj. John H. Bills, who was one of the original settlers of this place. Mrs. Tate was born April 13, 1848, and by her union with our subject became the mother of two children: Mary Lucy and Robert Wood. She is a worthy member of the Presbyterian Church. Mr. Tate is a Democrat in politics and an excellent man.

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Robert H. Walton

        Robert H. Walton, one of the old and most respected residents of Hardeman County, was born April 7, 1818, in Davidson County, Tenn. His parents were Mabrey and Martha (Exum) Walton, both of English origin and born in Virginia. They came to Sumner County, Tenn., when quite young; there they married and hived until about 1816, when they moved to Davidson County. In 1835 they settled in Hardeman County, where the remainder of their lives was spent. Their family consisted of nine sons and one daughter. Both parents were true members of the Missionary Baptist Church. Mr. Walton was a farnier by occupation. He met a sad and shocking death when about sixty-five years of age. He was staniding by a chimney during a severe storm, the lightning struck it, killing him instantly. The mother lived to the advanced age of eighty-two. The grandfather Walton served seven years in the Revolutionary war, and the maternal grandfather procured supplies for the army. The subject of this sketch was the fifth child; he was raised on a farm, receiving his education in the old field schools. At eighteen he began life on his own repoininsibility. After keeping a toll bridge across Hatchie River, he volunteered in Capt. R. P. Neely’s company, to remove the Indians to their territory. After his return he began farming, which has since been his occupation. In1842 he wedded Mrs. Sarah Kearney, by whom he had three children, two of whom are living: Mary E., wife of D. E. Durrett, and Charles A. April, 1886, Mrs. Walton died, she was an exemplary Christian, and a member of the Missionary Baptist Church, a loving wife, a kind and affectionate mother, useful and valuable member of society. Mr. Walton is also connected with the Missionary Baptist Church. He is a strong old school Democrat. For six years he was a magistrate, and coroner same length of time. As an agriculturist he has met with great success having started in life within almost nothing, he has by judicious management and energy been ennabled to purchase 500 acres of fine land. He has made Hardemnan County his home for more than fifty years. He is well known as an honest man and worthy, upright citizen.

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Andrew J. Walton

        Andrew J. Walton, farmer, was born in Davidson County, Tenn., March 25, 1828, the ninth of ten children, three now living, born to Mabrey and Martha (Exum) Walton, both natives of Virginia and of English descent. They were married in Middle Tennessee and moved to Davidson County soon after. In the latter part of 1835 they came to Hardeman County and here spent the rest of their days. The father was born October 7, 1785, was a farnier, a Democrat and a member of the Missiommary Baptist Church. His death was caused by a stroke of lightning July 15, 1851. The mother was born February 1, 1787. She was a member of the Missionary Baptist Church and died in Hardeman County May 16, 1868. Andrew J., at the age of seven years, came with his paremits to Hardeman County and he has practically made this his home ever since. In youth he received a good education and decided to make farmimig his life occupation. In 1852 he purchased a portion of the old homestead and in a few years became owner of the whole tract and has now 370 acres of hand in his county. In 1863 he entered the Confederate Army, enhisting in Company C, was received into Gen. Forrest’s command and served under him until November, 1864, when by reason of ill health, he returned home. Septemuber 10, 1868, Mr. Walton married Mrs. Nancy (Marsh) Smith, a native of Hardeman County, born June 29, 1831. He is a Democrat in politics, and although not a member of any church, is a firm believer in the Bible and the Christian religion.

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Alexander White

        Alexander White, a well known resident of the Fifth District, of English origin, was born June 4, 1823, in North Carolina. His parents were natives of the same State. They were King and Telithia White. They moved to Tennessee and engaged in farming. The father died in 1838, after which Alexander took control of the homestead, which he is managing with success up to the present. He was married February, 1847, to Mary E., daughter of W. D. and Maria Simmons. Their union resulted in the birth of Maria Jane, wife of James Pirtle; George A.; James B.; Tabitha Ann, the wife of Wm. Pirtle; Mary Emma, widow of Walter Pirtle; John H., Mathias O. (deceased); Jefferson Davis; Sarah Ann; Lucie F.; and Susie E. Mr. White is a self-made man, who has accumulated his possessions by industry, economy and judicious management. He is of good social standing and highly respected. Previous to the late war he was a Whig; since that time he has been a Democrat.

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Rufus D. Whitley

        Rufus D. Whitley, one of the leading and well known farmers of Hardeman County, was born September 12, 1840, in Johnson County, N.C. His parents were Haywood and Esther (Gouringhiam) Whitley. Both were born, raised, married and died in the same State and county in which Rufus first saw the light of day. Each was of Primitive Baptist faith, although neither united with the church. They had two sons and one daughter. The father was a Democrat and farmer by occupation. He died about 1846. Mrs. Whitley married the second time to Henderson Graham, by whom she had seven children — three sons and four daughters. One of the boys, E. B., is a Methodist minister. The mother departed this life in 1861. The subject of this sketch was raised on a farm. His educational advantages were very limited. In 1861 .he volunteered in the Confederate service, Company D, of the Third North Carolina Cavalry, in the division of Wm. H. Lee. During more than four years of faithful and active service he was never wounded. At Comeus Crossing, south of Pittsburg, Va., he was taken prisoner and retained at Point Lookout for eight months. While in confinement he learned to make horsehair watch-guards and thus earned the means with which he supplied himself with the extras of prison life. After the close of the war he returned financially ruined; he began life again by hiring on a farm and teaching school. In 1867 he started to Mississippi, but his means gave out, and meeting Martin Moore, he was induced to come to Hardeman County to work for him. In the fall of same year he married Miss Margie R. Hammond, who was born November 3, 1839, in Haywood County. Their union has been blessed with four children: William T., Jesse B., Rufus M. and Joseph A. Mr. and Mrs. Whitley and three older sons are members of the Methodist Church. In politics Mr. Whitley is an ardent Democrats but has never aspired to places of public trust, but by close attention to his affairs, industry and economy, has risen from a tenant to the proprietor of 360 acres of valuable and productive land as can be found in the county. He lends a liberal and helping hand to all churches, schools and good enterprises. No man is more respected or better known.

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John A. Wilson

        John A. Wilson, one of the leading merchants of Bolivar, was born May 27, 1832, in Hardeman County, a son of John and Mary C. (Stuart) Wilson, both of whom were natives of Kentucky where they were raised and married. They came to Hardeman County in 1824 before the days of Bolivar. Their family consisted of two sons and five daughters; three only are living. The father was an extensive planter. He was a strong Whig. He belonged to no church but was a good and noble man. His death occurred in 1837. He was of Irish origin, his father a soldier of the Revolutionary war. The mother was a true Christian woman and member of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. She departed this life in 1872 after a lengthy widowhood. She was of Scotch descent. The subject of this sketch was raised on a farm and received a common-school education. From the age of sixteen until the outbreak of the war he managed his mother’s farm. In 1859 he was married, in Marshall County, Miss., to Miss Ann E., daughter of Hardin Frankhin, and granddaughter of Gov. Franklin of North Carolina, in which State Mrs. Wilson was born in 1838. The fruits of this union have been five children — three sons and two daughters. In 1862 Mr. Wilson entered the Confederate service, Company B, under command of Gen. Forrest. He served ten months, then was discharged. In 1866 he embarked in the mercantile business in which he has been successfully engaged since that time. Previous to the "late unpleasantness" he was a Whig and is now a stanch Democrat. For fifty-four years he has been a resident of Hardeman County; twenty years of that time he has been connected with the business interests of Bolivar. He is a man of ability and honor. He has never been insolvent nor sued. He is an exemplary member of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church and his wife of the Methodist.

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J. W. Wilson

        Squire J. W. Wilson, a prominent resident of Middleton, was born March 23, 1834, in South Carolina. His father, Ashley H., was born in same State February 10, 1810. He immigrated to Tennessee in 1840 and one year later moved to Tippah County, Miss., where he still lives an old and respected man and extensive farmer. The mother, Martha P. (Janes) Wilson, was born in 1810 and departed this life in April, 1872. She was the daughter of John Janes, an Englishman. The paternal grandfather, Joseph Wilson, was a native of Ireland. The subject of this sketch was raised on a farm and worked at that occupation until 1854. He then taught school until date of the late war. He entered the Confederate service in 1861 in the Thirty-second Mississippi. He was appointed recruiting officer and returned to Mississippi where he organized a company, being elected first lieutenant of the same. They were called Company K, Tenth Mississippi Regiment. He was wounded September 20, 1863, at the battle of Chickamauga, receiving a shot through the right thigh which disabled him for further service and since that time for manual labor. After the restoration of peace he resumed teaching which, with the exception of two years in the drug business, he has followed altogether. He was married in November, 1862, to Martha A., the daughter of Joseph and Annie Janes. To the union six children were born, four of whom are still living: Cora, Maurice, John and Joseph Ashley. Mr. Wilson is a good man and respected citizen, a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church South. He is connected with the Masonic order and a true Democrat. In August, 1876, he was elected magistrate and has retained the office since that time. He is also notary public for this end of the county.

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J. W. Wilkes

        Squire J. W. Wilkes, one of the best known residents and natives of Hardemon County, was born September 17, 1835, the third of a family of three sons and six daughters born to Joseph and Naomi M. (Barnett) Wilkes. The father was of English descent, born in Davidson County, Tenn., in 1807, and raised in Humphreys Coumity. His educational advantages were very limited. When only seventeen years of age he plied a fiatboat on Hatchie River. Later he and his brother went to Haywood County, and for several years kept "bachelors’ hall," and in 1826 he settled permanently in Hardeman County. In 1829 he married Miss Barnett, who was of Irish extraction, born in Kentucky in 1809 and died in 1847. His second union was with Mrs. Rebecca J. Kirkpatrick, by whom he had two sons and four daughters. The second wife died in 1875. Some time afterward he wedded Miss Ann Robley. He and each of his wives were members of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church, he having joined when a lad of twelve years. He was a stanch Democrat, and successful agriculturist. Having started in life a poor man, by hard work and good management he became owner of more than a thousand acres of land. He died March 3, 1881. The subject of this sketch was reared on a farm. After attending the schools in the vicinity he took a thorough course in the McLemoresville College, Carroll County, preparatory to the study of. medicine, but failing health compelled him to abandon this desire, and he turned his attention to farming. In 1858 he married Emily J. Mitchell, who was born in Middle Tennessee November 17, 1838, a daughter of James and Mary W. Mitchell, a most highly respected family. The father was a native of South Carolina, and the mother of Tennessee. Squire and Mrs. Wilkes have two children: John W., Jr. and Emmett C. Mrs. Wilkes is a member of the Methodist Church, and Mr. Wilkes of the Cumberland Presbyterian. He is a strong Democrat. He was a stanch Union man, but when war became the last resort he went out, in 1863, in Company F, Fourteenth Tennessee Cavalry, Confederate service. During more than two years of active duty he was neither wounded nor captured. At the close of the war he returned home, and resumed farming with comparatively nothing, but by hard work, energy and judicious management he has accumulated considerable property, owning 1,100 acres of fine land. In 1866 he was made magistrate, giving so much satisfaction that he held the office for eighteen years, declining to serve any longer. He has been a residemit of Hardeman County all his life, and no man in the community has a fairer name. He is charitable, and an honest, worthy citizen.

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Charles Wood

        Charles Wood, a well known and enterprising farmer of Hardeman County, is a native of Virginia, born in Albemarle County, March 25, 1824, son of James and Frances A. (Allen) Wood, both of English descent and natives of Albemarle County, Va. They were married in Virginia in 1823, and in 1826 immigrated to Tennessee and settled in Hardeman County. The father was born February 22, 1797, was engaged in the mercantile business in Virginia, but after coming to Tennessee gave his attention exclusively to farming. He was a Democrat, and a member of the Presbyterian Church. He died in Hardeman County, February 7, 1867. The mother was born in June, 1804; is a member of the Presbyteriamin Clmurch and is now living in Hardeman County. Charles received his education at Danville, Ky., and in 1846 settled on a. farm six miles west of Bolivar, and has since been one of Hardeman County’s substantial and worthy citizens. In 1872 he located where he now lives, and owns upward of 2,400 acres of hand. June 22, 1858, Mr. Wood was united in marriage to Miss Blanche E. Wharley, a native of Michigan, born November 5, 1838. She is a lady highly esteemed by all and a member of the Episcopal Church. They are the parents of nine children — five sons and four daughters. Mr. Wood is a Democrat and a member of the Presbyterian Church.

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John D. Woods

        John D. Woods, magistrate of the Second Civil District of Hardeman County, is a native of the county where he resides, born August 29, 1847. His ancestors were among the first settlers of Hardeman County. His grandfather, David Woods, who was a native of North Carolina and of Scotch-Irish descent, made a settlement in this county as early as 1824. The parents of the subject of this sketch were Samuel M. and Narcissa (Robinson) Woods. The father, who was a native of Orange County, N.C., born February 16, 1821, came with his parents, when an infant, to Hardeman County. He was a farmer by occupation, a Democrat in politics, and died in this county May 5, 1849. The mother is of Scotch-Irish-French descent, born in Hardeman County, March 29, 1824, and is now a resident of Tipton County, the wife of Joseph H. Shinault, to whom she was married in 1852. John D. is the elder of two children born to his parents, and received a good education in his youth, whinich has since been greatly improved by extensive and select reading. For several years he taught school, and in 1879 came into possession of the old homestead, and since then has been an active an enterprising planter. August 2, 1879, Mr. Woods married Mrs. Annie (McLarty) Hunt, a cultured lady, born in Hardeman County November 26, 1846. To this union two children have been born: David, born July 14, 1880, and Bessie, born March 2, 1883. In August, 1882, Mr. Woods was elected to the office he now holds, and for six years has been school director of the Second District, and being a man of liberal views he is a strong advocate of the free school system; has done much toward advancing the educational interests of the county. He is a Democrat, and though not a member of any church, is a firm believer in Christianity and is in sympathy with the doctrines of the Methodist Episcopal Church South, of which Mrs. Woods is a member.

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R. M. Wright

        R. M. Wright, a member of the prominent firm of Wright & Durden, of Saulsbury, was born December 3, 1834, in Madison County, Ala. His parents were John annd Hannah (Moore) Wright. His father is supposed to have emigrated from Ireland to Virginia at an early day, and moved to Alabama, where he died about 1837. The mother was a native of Alabama and died when our subject was a very small child. H. M. worked on a farm until about nineteen years of age, at which time he obtained a situation as clerk in the drug store of W. B. Wright & Co. of Memphis. As he had almost no early educational advantages he had to work for his board and clothes half of the day and night, attending the public schools of the city the remainder of the day. Thus he struggled on, applying himself every spare moment to study, until he has acquired a valuable and practical store of information. September, 1857, he came to Saulsbury and engaged as a salesman for A. G. Dennis & Co., for the small amount of $150 per annum. This place he kept until the war. He entered the Confederate service in Company C, of the Twenty-second Tennessee Regiment. He was appointed sergeant by Gen. Bragg, which position he retained during the conflict. He participated actively in all the engagements into which his command was drawn, but met with no serious accident. After the surrender he returned to Memphis and clerked for Taylor, MeEwen & Co. for a short time. August, 1865, he secured a place with W. W. R. Elliotte of Saulsbury. January, 1867, he formed a partnership with W. Durden and established a store, where they have since been engaged, and with no small amount of success. Mr. Wright is today one of the most solid and honored citizens in the community. He began life without capital and with little education, but had sufficient ambitioi and courage to overcome the difficulties with which he was surrounded. He is an elder in the Cumberland Presbyterian Church, a prominent member of the Masonic fraternity and K. of H. He is a stanch Democrat. August, 1865, he was married to Samuella Bunting, a daughter of Samuel and Eliza Bunting. This union resulted in the birth of four children. Mrs. Wright died August, 1874. January 28, 1875, Mr. Wright wedded Maggie Williams, a daughter of Joe C. and Mary Ross (Lake) Williams. This second union has been blessed with two sons and two daughters.

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Hiram B. Wynn

        Hiram B. Wynne, a prominent merchant of Whiteville, was born February 16, 1851, in Humphreys County, Tenn. His parents were John W. and Frances S. (Traylor) Wynne. The father was born in Benton County, Tenn., in 1818, and the mother in Humphreys County, same year. John W. was a captain of flatboats, owning an interest in some of them. In his early life he was rather careless of his means, which rendered him an objectionable suitor, but he afterward settled down and became one of the best men in the community. Of the eight children born to their union, two sons and one daughter are living. In politics Mr. Wynne was a Jacksonian Democrat and a strong Union man. His wife was a true, good woman. She never united with any church. The subject of this sketch was raised and received an excellent education in his native county, remaining at home until 1878, when he began life for himself. In 1879 he married Miss Annie Sedden, born July 20, 1861. Their family consists of Willie B., Albert E. and Annie C. Mrs. Wynne is an estemiable lady and sincere member of the Cumberland Presbyteriau Church. The year of his marriage Mr. Wynne opened a first-class grocery store, and in June, 1886, he purchased a drug stock of Mitchell and another of Robertson. Both houses are in a flourishing condition and receiving an extensive patronage. He is also interested in farming. He is the postmaster of Whiteville, and well versed in law, practicing in the magistrate’s office. He has been a resident of Hardeman County eleven years, and with the exception of a short period, closely associated with the commercial interests of the town in which he lives, and is regarded ae one of the most substantial, enterprising and upright citizens. He is a stanch Democrat.

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Alex F. Yopp

        Alex. F. Yopp, sheriff of Hardeman County, where he was born January 10, 1846, is the eldest of a family of seven children born to Dr. Wm. T. and Elizabeth (Coleman) Yopp. The father is of English descent, was born in North Carolina in 1826, and the mother in Rutherford County, Tenn. Both came to the county when quite young, where they were raised and married. Dr. Wm. Yopp received his education in Memphis. For thirty-five years he was one of the most successful and popular physicians in the entire section. He retired from practice in 1883, and since that time has been engaged in agricultural pursuits. He and his wife are consistent and respected members of the Methodist Church. Our subject was raised on a farm and received his education in the common schools of the county. Before the age of fifteen, in 1862, as a volunteer, he entered the Confederate service, Company A, Fourteeminth Tennessee Cavalry. During three years of bravery and active service he was but once taken prisoner; he was held about four months. At the battle of Franklin he received a wound in the face by a minie-ball. After the war he engaged in farming until 1876, when he moved to Bolivar. He held the position of deputy sheriff from 1872 to 1876. He was twice a candidate for the office of sheriff and each time defeated, but in 1882 was elected. He has given such entire and perfect satisfaction that he has been enabled to retain the place since that time. In connection with his official duties he deals extensively in horses. For eight years he has been a public servant, and has proved himself an efficient officer, an able and honorable man. In 1867 he was united in marriage to Miss Pattie Yoakum, who was born in 1847. To them have been born four children: Elmo, Neely, Ike and Harry. Mrs. Yopp is an earnest and respected member of the Methodist Church. Mr. Yopp has never united with any denomination. In politics he is a Democrat.

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