Biographical Appendix to the History of Robertson County
[p.1124] William Armstrong was born in Robertson County, Tenn., April 14, 1815, at the old Armstrong place where W. Glidewell now lives. His father was William L. Armstrong, born March 10, 1173, and his mother was Mary Cavitt, daughter of Michael Cavitt, of North Carolina. The early history of the Armstrong family is as follows: James Armstrong was born in Ireland in 1701, and this is the earliest date the family have on record. Mr. James Armstrong, when he came from Ireland, settled in North Carolina. How many children were born to him is not known, but William Armstrong was one of his descendants and was born May 10, 1737; was married twice, and immigrated to Tennessee and settled in Williamson County, where he died. He was one of the first settlers of Tennessee, and had many encounters with and many escapes from the Indians. William Armstrong, our subject's grandfather, had four children, two boys and two girls. One of the boys was William Armstrong, born March 10, 1773, in North Carolina, before his father came West. In 1784 the Armstrong family came to Tennessee and settled in Wilson County, near Thompson's Fort, where they remained for four years. They then came to Robertson County in 1788. To William L., our subject's father, were born ten children--six boys and four girls--all lived to be grown, of whom but two are at present living. Our subject was [p.1125] reared on the old place and was married October, 1836, to Charlotta Covington, daughter of Henry Covington. To them were born eight children, of whom five are still living: N. N., Madora (Lawton), Louisa (Harris), E. L. and Josephus. His wife died November, 1852, and he was married the second time to Mary Holland, daughter of George and Mary (Edwards) Holland. He settled where he is now living in 1854. Our subject is a farmer and is the only male member left of the old Armstrong family. He owns 275 acres of extra land and is considered one of the good men of the county.
N. N. Armstrong was born on the 16th of October, 1844, in Robertson County, Tenn., and January 16, 1873, was married to Ann B. Payne, daughter of Gideon and Anna Payne. He was reared on a farm and secured a common school education. In October, 1861, he enlisted in Company K, Thirtieth Volunteer Infantry, and served in Mississippi, Louisiana and Tennessee. He was at Fort Donelson, Vicksburg, Port Hudson, Raymond, Jackson, Chickamauga and Missionary Ridge, where he was wounded in the knee. After he was crippled he was captured and taken to Chattanooga, where he was held captive three months, at Nashville two months; thence to Louisville, Ky.; thence to Indianapolis, Ind., where he was kept until the close of the war. He then returned home and attended school for some time. He is a son of William Armstrong, whose sketch appears in this work, and was State and county tax collector in 1882 and 1883. He is a Democrat and a member of the I. O. O. F.
William Althauser, foreman and book-keeper of a registered distillery, was born in 1847, in Baden, Germany, and is one of a family of five children born to Jacob and Anna (Kvirg) Althauser. The father and mother were natives of Baden, Germany. The father was a cooper by trade, and in connection did farming. He died about 1850. The mother was born in 1807, and came to North Carolina in 1852, locating in Cincinnati, Ohio, where she died in 1880. The subject of this sketch was reared without a father's care or training, being only three years old at his father's death. He received his education in the schools of Cincinnati, Ohio. At the age of nineteen he commenced keeping books for S. N. Fowler, a distiller at Cincinnati, but after two years he engaged himself to Mr. Charles Nelson as book-keeper, and has proved so trusty and efficient that to compensate him for this he has been made foreman of the entire establishment, it being the largest distillery in the county. September 25, 1873, he was married to Mary F. Swift, a native of Tennessee, born in 1847, and the daughter of Richard and Mary F. Swift. To Mr. and Mrs. Althauser have been born five children: Nathaniel L., Robert P., Anna M., William E. and James A. Garfield. Mr. Althauser has control of the [p.1126] entire business, and looks carefully after the interests of his employer, and nothing is done unless under and by his personal supervision. He is a member of the German Lutheran Church, and his wife a member of the Baptist Church. In politics Mr. Althauser is a stanch Republican.
H. D. Alsbrook, one of the prominent farmers of Robertson County, was born March 23, 1848, in Montgomery County, being one of a family of eight children born to Wiley and Frances W. (Connell) Alsbrook. The father was born June 6, 1823, in Robertson County, and in the early part of his life followed farming, but for the past ten years he has been coopering. The grandfather of our subject, Henry Alsbrook, was a native of North Carolina. Wiley lived in his native county at the time of his marriage, which was solemnized in 1845. He moved to Adams Station in 1876, and has since resided there. The mother was born in 1825 in this county, and is now living. Our subject received his education in the country schools of Montgomery County. He made his home with his parents till twenty-eight years old. October 16, 1877, he married Alice Chambers, daughter of C. C. and Martha Chambers, of this county. Mrs. Alsbrook was born November 22, 1854. Mr. Alsbrook's married life has been blessed in the birth of three children: James E., Frank and Patti Lucille. Mr. Alsbrook first bought 100 acres in Montgomery County, but in 1876 he sold out and came to Robertson County, where he has since farmed, now owning a farm of 690 acres. He at one time, for a period of four years, carried on a blacksmith trade in connection with a brother. He also for five years had a half interest in a cooper shop with his father. He established a dry goods store at Adams Station with an uncle as partner. In 1883 J. C. Murphy became a member of the firm and they added hardware to the stock. In 1885 he traded his store for 420 acres of land where he now lives. He is recognized as an honorable and upright business man and a valuable citizen. In politics he is a Democrat. His wife is a member of the Missionary Baptist Church.
David M. Allen, one of Robertson County's old citizens, was born in Humphreys County, Tenn., January 19, 1819, being one of sixteen children born to the union of Benjamin Allen and Annie Lamb. The father, who was of German descent, was born in North Carolina in 1784. During his whole life he followed the pursuit of farming. He died in March, 1856. The mother was also a descendant of German ancestry. She was born in 1766, in North Carolina, and her death occurred in March, 1856, the same month in which the father died. Our subject's youthful days were spent with his parents, he remaining with them till eighteen, receiving his education at Nashville. In January, 1840, he was married to Frances Pope, daughter of John and Frances Pope. Mrs. Allen died in [p.1127] 1880, and our subject then chose and wedded Margaret Hamilton, whose parents were Frank and Kate Hamilton. Mr. Allen's family consists of five children: John, Emma (the wife of J. U. Kimbrough), Jessie, Mary (the wife of J. Wilson), Frank and Anna (the wife of G. Dixon). In 1840 Mr. Allen commenced the wagon-maker's trade in Nashville, and for eighteen years continued in that employment. He then bought 210 acres of land and farmed in Davidson County. In 1860 he went to Arkansas, whence he came back to Tennessee, and in 1864 he settled in Robertson County, where he bought 188 acres, and now follows farming. He is a member of the Democratic party and of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. He is a worthy citizen of the county.
James Babb was born near where he now lives January 5, 1814, son of Burwell Babb, and grandson of Christopher Babb, both born in North Carolina, the former in 1778. The latter lived to be one hundred and fifteen years old, and his wife, our subject's grandmother, lived to be one hundred and seven years of age. The grandfather was a soldier in the Revolutionary war, and was an active man up to the time of his death. Burwell Babb came to Tennessee when a young man. He purchased some land which he began clearing. He soon after married Elizabeth Holland, daughter of James Holland, who bore him eleven children, six of whom are living. The father suffered many of the privations incident to pioneer life, and at the time of his death owned 900 acres of land, being one of the wealthiest men of the county, and a large slave-holder. The mother lived to be seventy-three years old. Our subject lived with his father until twenty-eight years old, when he married Annis, daughter of Thomas Jones. To them were born four children: Jane, Granville, Minerva (deceased) and one who died in infancy. In 1852 the wife died, and in 1853 Mr. Babb married Caroline Payne, daughter of Solomon Payne, born in 1811. Jane Babb is married and living in Texas. Granville Babb has been twice married. Mr. Babb owned 400 acres of land, and gave each of his children a farm and yet owns 100 acres. He and wife are members of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church, and he is a Mason.
Col. G. W. Barbee, an energetic farmer and proprietor of the Dewdrop Nursery and Fruit Farm, was born in Robertson County February 1, 1829. He was one of eleven children of James A. and Sallie (Willes) Barbee, natives of North Carolina and Robertson County, respectively. The father was born in 1807. He has been a farmer during his entire life-time. He is now a resident of this county, having reached the ripe age of seventy-nine years. The mother was born in 1810, and departed this life in 1834. The gentleman whose life this sketch portrays was [p.1128] reared on a farm with his parents to the age of twenty-one. Like other boys of his early day he was deprived of a thorough education. Since 1869 he has been farming in District Three, and now owns 188 acres of good land. He is also extensively engaged in the nursery business. December 25, 1869, he was married to A. G., daughter of William R. and Lucinda Eddings. Mrs. Barbee was born March 1, 1853. Mr. Barbee has one of the largest fruit orchards in the State, comprising about thirty varieties of the finest apples. He is a member of the Baptist Church and of the F. & A. M. organization.
A. F. Barry was born in Robertson County August 6, 1834, and is the ninth of ten children born to his parents. Mr. Asa Barry, the father, was a native of Virginia, born in 1787, and was a soldier in the war of 1812, and died in 1870. Mrs. Barry was the daughter of John Conner, of Irish descent. The subject of this sketch was married to Miss Mary E. Jones, daughter of William and Susan J. (Harris) Jones. To Mr. and Mrs. Barry were born six children: Alonzo, Melissa J., Alfred W., John T., Alice and Sarah L. Mrs. Barry died April 6, 1874, of consumption, and in 1876 Mr. Barry married for his second wife Miss M. E. Jones, sister of the first wife. After his first marriage he moved around for some time, but at last located on the farm where he now lives, on 100 acres of cultivated land. He is an honest, upright man, and is respected by all. He is a Mason, and he and his family belong to the Baptist Church.
C. C. Bell, president of the Springfield National Bank, and tobacco dealer, was born January 11, 1838, in Robertson County, and is one of a family of three children born to Joel E. and Welmath (Edwards) Bell. The father was born in 1813, in Robertson County, and is a farmer by occupation. Our subject's grandfather was a native of North Carolina, and came here and settled in Robertson County at an early date, being one of the very first settlers in the county. Joel Bell lived in his native county at the time of his marriage, which occurred in 1833. In 1855 he moved to the Third District, where he has since lived. He has been very successful as a tiller of the soil, owning at the present time upward of 800 acres. He has been twice married, and is the father of seven children. The mother was of Irish descent, and was born in 1815 in this county, where she died in 1845. Our subject remained with his parents until twenty years of age, and was educated in the country schools and in Springfield. He was married in 1858 to Minerva C. Henry, a native of this county, born August 15, 1840. To them were born nine children: Joel H., Charles A., James W., Robert, Richard A., Kader, Addie, Mattie and Leon F. Joel, Charles, James and Robert are engaged in the [p.1129] manufacture of plug, twist and smoking tobacco, the firm being known as Bell Bros. The year before our subject was married he bought 107 acres of land in the Third District; the following year he sold out and bought 300 acres in the Ninth District, where he located and remained about eighteen years, but at last sold out for $8,200 and came to Springfield, where he has since resided. In August, 1872, the Springfield National Bank was established, and in 1874 Mr. Bell was elected president of the same. He also owns the tobacco stemmery of Springfield. Mr. Bell is one of the solid business men of Springfield, and is highly esteemed as an honest and valuable citizen. In politics Mr. Bell has been a life-long Democrat, is a member of the Masonic fraternity, and he and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
J. T. Bell, M. D., of Adams Station, was born April 13, 1831, near his present residence. He is the son of John and Elizabeth (Gunn) Bell. The father was of English origin, and was born in 1793 in North Carolina. He was a tiller of the soil and the son of John Bell, our subject's grandfather, who came to Robertson County about 1800, and located on Red River; he was one of the first settlers in the county. Our subject's father was living in Robertson County at the time of his marriage, which occurred in 1828. He afterward bought 640 acres near where Adams Station now is. Here he settled and passed the residue of his life. In early life he followed flat-boating on the Mississippi River, and was a soldier in the war of 1812. He died May 8, 1862. The mother was of English origin, and was born in 1806 in North Carolina, and died in 1857. Our subject received a good education in the common schools of Robertson County, Tenn., and Logan County, Ky. In 1852 he began studying medicine, and during the year 1853 he entered the Medical University of Nashville, taking two full lecture courses. He graduated as an M. D. March, 1857. After obtaining his diploma he returned to his father and commenced his practice. May 28, 1859, he married Laura Henry, a native of Tennessee, born February 18, 1842. To this union were born five children: Flora, Sallie, Boyd, Baliley and Mary. Dr. Bell inherited 207 acres of the old home place, upon which he settled and where he still lives. Mr. Bell has carried on his practice in the same vicinity for some years, and by a thorough knowledge of his profession has built up a lucrative practice. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity, and he and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
Hon. J. Allen Bell, a farmer residing in the Third District, Robertson County, is one of four children, results of the marriage of Richard W. and Sallie (Gunn) Bell. His birth was in December, 1834, in the [p.1130] county of Robertson. He remained with his parents to the age of twenty-one, and had only the advantages of the country schools of the county. In 1856 he commenced farming on his own responsibility, and in December, 1865, he was married to Eugenie Chambers, a native of this county, born in 1841, being the daughter of Clement and Martha Chambers. Three children have blessed Mr. Bell's married life, viz.: Willie, the wife of Frank McCurrin, Eugenie and Albert. In 1858 Mr. Bell bought a small farm and has successfully continued farming and now owns 950 acres. In 1877 he moved to Adairville, Ky., and engaged in the tobacco trade, which he yet continues extensively. In politics he is a Democrat, and is a member of the Methodist Church. He was a member of the Legislature from Robertson County in 1869 and 1870. As a citizen he is well respected by all who know him. His father was born in this county in 1811. He lived all his life in his native county, and died in 1857. The mother's birth was in 1810. She died in fair womanhood at the age of twenty-nine in 1839.
N. O. Bell, an enterprising farmer, was born April 15, 1847, in Robertson County, Tenn., and is the son of Richard W., and Eliza (Orndorff) Bell. The father was born in 1806, in Robertson County, Tenn., and was a farmer by occupation, his father, John Bell, our subject's grandfather, was a native of North Carolina, and came to Tennessee about 1800, where he bought property in the Sixth District and where his career ended about 1816. Richard lived in his native county at the time of his marriage and located on the old home place. He was a wealthy farmer and was constable for a number of years. He died in 1857. He was three times married and was the father of four children. The mother was of German descent and was born 1818, in Logan County, Ky. She died 1869. Our subject was reared on the farm and received his education in the county schools. He made his home with his mother as long as she lived. Mr. Bell was one of the boys in gray and enlisted in Company E, Eighth and Twelfth Regiments, Kentucky Cavalry. He took an active part in the battle of Selma, Ala., and numerous minor engagements. He was captured at Selma, but was released in a short time. April 29, 1869, he married Rose Roberts, a native of Tennessee, born April 29, 1852. To this union were born two children, named Linnie and Floyd. After marriage Mr. Bell located on the old home place where he now resides. Mr. Bell is spoken of as an honest and useful citizen, and bears an unsullied reputation. In politics he is a Democrat and he is a member of the Masonic fraternity, and he and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
Cornelius Bell, a successful farmer, was born June 30, 1832, and is [p.1131] the eldest of four sons born to Walter and Elizabeth (Culbertson) Bell. The father was born in Robertson County in 1802, and was of Irish lineage. James Bell, our subject's grandfather, was one of the first settlers in Robertson County, immigrating there as early as 1796. Walter Bell was quite a successful farmer, owning at one time 500 acres of good land. He died in 1876 in his seventy-fifth year, The mother was of English and Scotch-Irish dscent, and was born in 1802 in North Carolina. She died in 1875, in her seventy-fourth year. Our subject was educated in the country schools and in addition to this attended the Liberty Academy at Springfield. November 16, 1854, he married Catherine Rogers, a native of Sumner County, Tenn., born June 6, 1834, and the daughter of Britton and Mary (Pitt) Rogers. Mr. and Mrs. Bell became the parents of the following children: Walter, Thomas, Tyree and Forrest. After marriage Mr. Bell settled on 160 acres on the pike road, where he has since resided. He has been a hard working and industrious man; by energy and good management he now owns 600 acres and a first-class orchard of about 350 good bearing trees. He and wife belong to the Methodist Episcopal Church South. In politics Mr. Bell is very conservative, always voting for principle and not for party. His first vote was cast for Fillmore.
Ernest B. Bell, M. D., was born June 25, 1861, in Robertson County, Tenn., and is the son of John F., and Laura G. (Bridges) Bell. The father was of Scotch-Irish descent, a native of Robertson County, Tenn., born in 1835 and a physician by profession, but in connection with this carried on agricultural pursuits. He died in 1882. The mother was a native of Robertson County, Tenn., born in 1837, and since the death of her husband has been living on the old homestead with her son Thomas E. Our subject received the rudiments of his education in the county schools and subsequently in the Liberty Academy at Springfield. After becoming of age he commenced the study of medicine at Springfield, and in 1881 he entered the Vanderbilt Medical College at Nashville, graduating from that institution as an M. D., February 22, 1884. He then went to Kentucky and commenced practicing, but owing to his ill health he remained only one year, and in 1885 came to Springfield and resumed practice, which he still continues with excellent success. He is one of the leading physicians of the county. In politics the Doctor is very conservative, holding himself aloof from all parties. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity and of the Christain Church.
J. M. Binkley, blacksmith, of Springfield, was born December 20, 1830, in Wilson County, Tenn., and is one of a family of seven children born to Henry and Nancy Emeline (Gleaves) Binkley. The father was [p.1132] born February 6, 1806, in Davidson County, Tenn., and was of German origin. He was a blacksmith by trade, and is the son of Frederick Binkley, a native of North Carolina, who came to Tennessee at a very early date. Henry Binkley soon after his marriage, which occurred in 1828, moved to Wilson County, and about 1832 moved to Dickson County, where he remained until 1844, when he again sold out and settled in another part of the county, where he has since resided. He is yet living and is eighty years old. The mother was of Irish-German descent, and was born about 1808, in Tennessee. She died April, 1844. Our subject received his education in the schools of the county, and at the age of nineteen commenced learning the blacksmith's trade of his father, where he lived until 1855. February 22, 1842, he married Lucy Hall, daughter of Michael and Olivia Hall. Mrs. Binkley was born May 31, 1833, in Montgomery County, Tenn., and by her union with Mr. Binkley became the mother of five children: Mollie, wife of F. P. Johnson; John Walters, Joseph E., Annie and Lucy. Mr. Binkley moved to McKinney, Tex., and after moving around for some time at last settled in Springfield, where he erected a shop and resumed his trade. He has the leading blacksmith shop in Springfield. In politics Mr. Binkley is a Democrat, and a member of the Masonic lodge. He and wife are worthy members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
D. B. Borthick is a native of the blue-grass State, born September 10, 1850, son of John Borthick, a farmer. The mother was Ellen Ponds, daughter of William Ponds, of Tennessee. Our subject was reared on a farm, and in his young days secured a good education. At the age of eighteen he entered the University of Kentucky at Lexington where he graduated. After finishing his education he went to Warren County, Ky., and commenced teaching school, in which he was very successful. After remaining there some time he went to Simpson County, where he taught ten consecutive years. He then took charge of the Cedar Valley Academy, and is its present principal. He is considered one of the best educators of the county, and has met with the best of success in his undertakings. In 1876 he led to the Hymeneal altar Miss Alice Morgan, daughter of J. R. Morgan and a distant relative of Gen. John Morgan.
J. R. Bridges, Sr., farmer and distiller, was born March 27, 1834, in Crittenden County, Ky., and is a son of William and Amanda (Mantle) Bridges. The father was born October 5, 1805, in the State of North Carolina, and was of Scotch-Irish descent. He was a farmer by occupation, and soon after his marriage he moved to Crittenden County, Ky., where he remained for two years. In 1835 he moved to Robertson [p.1133] County, Tenn., where he settled and remained until his career ended. He was a successful farmer, owning upward of 750 acres at the time of his death, which event occurred October 23, 1867. The mother was born June 16, 1804, in Hanover County, Va. She died February 14, 1866. Our subject was educated in the country schools, and subsequently in Liberty Academy, at Springfield. February 17, 1854, he wedded Sallie A. Davis, daughter of Jesse and Susan (Kirby) Davis. Mrs. Bridges was a native of Robertson County, Tenn., and was born March 17, 1835. By her union with Mr. Bridges she became the mother of seven children: Alice, born 1855; Willie J., born 1856; John R., born 1857; Joyce L., born 1860; Mary F., born 1861; Charles C., born 1864, and Sallie E., born October 27, 1871. After marriage Mr. Bridges located on a fine tract of land which he received from his father's estate, and upon which tract he has since resided. In 1855 Mr. Bridges erected a distillery, and from that day to this, at different intervals, he has manufactured whisky and fruit brandy. He has also speculated in buying and selling stock, and in 1880 he entered into the tobacco business, at which he has since continued. Mr. Bridges is one of the leading business men of Robertson County, and has been for the past thirty years. In politics he does not favor any party but votes for principle. He is a member of the I. O. O. F., and his wife is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
J. A. Briggs, an enterprising farmer, was born in 1836, in Granville County, N. C., and is the son of John and Frances (Jackson) Briggs. The father was of English extraction, born in Granville County, N. C., and a farmer by occupation. In 1838 he came to Robertson County, and bought 300 acres of land in District No. 12, where he located, and died in 1875. The mother was of French origin, and was born in 1811 in Granville County, N. C. Since the death of her husband she has been living on the old home place with the youngest daughter, Sarah Jane. Our subject was educated in the country schools, and remained with his parents until twenty-one years of age. August 21, 1856, he married Phoebe Warren, daughter of Peter and Elizabeth Warren. Mrs. Briggs was born May 21, 1838. To them were born four children: Elizabeth (wife of W. S. Jones), Lethe A., James H. and Lewis. After moving around to different places for a number of years, he at last bought 130 acres near Greenbrier, where he located and now resides, but has increased the 130 acres to 210. Mr. Briggs is known and respected as an honest man and a good and kind neighbor. His wife is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and Mr. Briggs is a Democrat in politics.
[p.1134] Jordan S. Brown, distiller and wholesale liquor dealer of Springfield, was born in 1845 in Lebanon, Tenn., and is one of a family of ten children born to Samuel and Lucy (Chandler) Brown. The father was a native of the State of North Carolina and a saddler by trade. He left his native State in his youth, and came to this State, settling in Lebanon, where he died in 1853. The mother was born in Wilson County, Tenn., in 1810, and died in 1872. The subject was reared at home and received his education in the university at Lebanon. At the age of fifteen he hired out as a clerk in a dry goods store. He was one of the boys in gray, and enlisted in Company K, Fourth Tennessee Cavalry, at the early age of seventeen. He took active part in the battles of Perryville, Murfreesboro and other minor engagements, and remained in the field about one year. February 7, 1867, he wedded Josie Woodard, who was born August 1, 1848, in Robertson County, Tenn. To this union were born nine children: Jennie, Bettie, William, James, Jordan S., Edwin, Eva, George and Cleveland. In 1866 Mr. Brown came to Springfield and established himself in the dry goods business until January 1, 1869, when he abandoned the mercantile business and established himself in the retail and wholesale liquor and distilling business. He is one of the energetic business men of the county, a Democrat, and a member of the K. of H.
Ed Byran, a prominent farmer of Robertson County, is one of four whose parents were John C. and Phoebe (Halscell) Bryan. He was born in Montgomery County July 24, 1840. The parents were both natives of Montgomery County by birth, the father being of Irish descent and the mother of English. The father was born October 4,1808. His occupation was that of a farmer the greater part of his life. He died in this county September 15, 1880. The mother's birth was in the year 1812, and her death in 1868. Mr. Ed Bryan was reared with his parents till he was twenty years of age, his educational advantages being such as the schools of the county afforded. He was one of the boys in gray. In 1861 he enlisted in Company F, Eleventh Tennessee Volunteers, and was in the field till the close of the war, having been in the battles of Chickamauga, Murfreesboro and many others. In 1867 he was married to Rebecca Grady, daughter of William and Sarah Grady. Mrs. Bryan was born in Todd County, Ky., October 21, 1843. Mrs. Bryan's married life has resulted in the birth of four children, viz.: Johnnie, Helen, William M. and Edward W. In 1866 he commenced farming in Montgomery County, where he remained until 1871, when he came to Robertson County, where he follows farming. Politically he is a Democrat. He is a respected citizen of Robertson County.
[p.1135] C. A. Burr, one of the five who were born to the matrimonial union of Edmond and Mary (Tyson) Burr, was born July 1, 1845. The father was born in Logan Connty, Ky., in 1814. He was a cabinet-maker and farmer. At the time of his marriage he was living in Sumner County Tenn., and in 1832 he settled in this county where he attained the age of sixty-eight and died on July 4, 1882. Thus a national holiday became a day of mourning to his bereft friends. The mother was born in 1812, and lived seventy-three years; she died April 20, 1885. The gentleman whose name heads this sketch was reared on a farm with his parents until attaining his majority, at which time, in 1866, he was wedded to Nancy Holland, who was born in this county in February, 1849. Six children have been born to this union, viz.: Callie T., Mildred L., Sallie L., S. Q., Virginia and Eddie D. In 1869 Mr. Burr bought eighty acres of land and has since continued farming, now owning 195 acres. He is a member of the Democratic party and of the Missionary Baptist Church. He is a moral and upright citizen of the county.
James L. Byrum was born at Hendersonville, Tenn., in 1825, and is a son of Noah Byrum, who was born in Virginia in 1795. The family are of English extraction, the great-grandfather having come from England. The grandfather came to Tennessee at an early day, and the family at that time consisted of ten children. As the country was thickly inhabited by Indians, they were obliged to take refuge in forts. The family are now scattered through several States. Our subject's father married Maria Durning, who was of Irish descent, and bore him fourteen children, twelve of whom were reared and four now living: James L., Alfred, Sarah and Margaret. James L. Byrum came to Robertson County in 1843 and soon after located on thirty acres of land, which he cleared. By his energy and perseverance he has added to his home until he now owns 130 acres of fertile land. He took for his companion through life Miss Eliza Martin, daughter of John Martin. She died, leaving two sons, Thomas and James. For his second wife Mr. Byrum took Miss Martha Stone, a daughter of Ned Stone, of North Carolina. To them was born one child, Sarah. His third wife was Maria Escue. They have no family.
W. A. Campbell, an enterprising farmer of Robertson County, is a native of Davidson County, where he was born to the marriage of William Campbell and Margaret Bryant, August 10, 1831. The father was of Scotch descent, and was born in North Carolina in 1788. During his early manhood he followed the avocation of a school-teacher, and in late years that of a farmer. He died in Davidson County in 1859. The mother was born in Davidson County and lived all her life in that county, [p.1136] she being a subject of death's call in 1846. W. A., whose name heads this sketch, received what may be termed a common school education. He faithfully remained with his parents to the age of twenty-two, when, in 1853, he began farming for himself. In 1860 he was wedded to his matrimonial choice, Josephine Wells, who has borne him six children, viz.: Lillie Ann, John C., Minnie C., William D., Milton W. and Hattie D. Mrs. Campbell is a daughter of David M. and Nancy Wells. The next year after marriage Mr. Campbell moved to Robertson County and continued to farm. In 1868 he bought 136 acres of land and yet pursues his life-time occupation. He is a respected and worthy citizen, and a member of the Democratic party.
C. C. Carlisle was one of nine children, the fruits of the marriage of David B. and Amanda M. Carlisle. He was born in Wythe County, Va., July 30, 1838. The father was born in North Carolina in March, 1813. At the time of his marriage he was living in Wythe County, Va., where he resided for some time. His death occurred in 1882, in Montgomery County, Tenn. The mother was of German descent and born in Wythe County, Va., in 1818. She is now in her sixty-eighth year and enjoying good health. The subject of this sketch was reared on a farm with his parents, with whom he remained until twenty-three years of age. He was one of the "boys in gray," having enlisted in April, 1861. He was sworn in as one of the Missouri State Guards. In 1862 he joined Company E, Fourth Missouri Regiment. At the close of the war he returned home, and in 1866 he was married to Nannie A. Browder, who was born to the marriage of James and Louisa Browder, in Meigs County, Tenn., September 23, 1844. She is the mother of six children by this union, viz.: Minnie C., William D., Edna E., John C., Walter O. and Paul B. In 1881 Mr. Carlisle bought 308 acres of land, and he has been one of the most successful farmers in the county. He is an honorable and enterprising citizen, and a member of the Democratic party. He is a member in good standing of the Methodist Church.
Obadiah Chisholm was born in Warren County, Ky., December 12, 1803. His father was also Obadiah Chisholm, a native of Virginia, who was married to Mary Ann Cordwell, also a native of Virginia. To this union four children were born. His first wife died, and he was married a second time to Nancy Leah, of Kentucky, and became the father of eight children, of whom our subject was one. The father, soon after his first marriage in Virginia, came west to Kentucky and settled in Warren County, where he lived till about the year 1810, when he came to Tennessee and settled in Robertson County, in the First District, on a place that had been settled by a free negro named William Steward. Here [p.1137] he lived and tilled the soil until death claimed him. Of the children born to him our subject is the only one living. He was reared on the farm and received a fair education at the common schools. At a proper age he was married to Agnes Caudell, daughter of Thomas Caudell, of Kentucky. To Mr. and Mrs. Chisholm were born these children: Polly (McGuire, deceased), Martha (McGuire), Sarah (Nimmo), Jane (McLaughlin), Lucinda, James W. and John F. Our subject settled where he now lives in 1828, and cleared the land without help. He is a well-to-do farmer, and after giving liberally to his children still has 100 acres of land left. His wife died January 23, 1880.
John Clinard, cooper and farmer, of Springfield, was born December 5, 1825, in Robertson County, Tenn., and is the son of John and Mary (Cameron) Clinard. The father was of German origin, born about 1795 in the State of North Carolina, and was a farmer by occupation. He was in the battle of New Orleans under Gen. Jackson and the Indian wars of that campaign. He died in Davidson County in 1849. The mother was of Scotch descent and was born a few years previous to 1800. She died about 1848. Our subject was reared at home and received his education in the schools of the county. When about eighteen years of age, he commenced working at the cooper's trade. April 21, 1847 he married Melinda C. Hollis, daughter of James S. and Judah Hollis. Mrs. Clinard is a native of Tennessee, born July 23, 1831. Mr. and Mrs. Clinard are the parents of an interesting family of eight children: James H., Malinda J., Gilford N., Jefferson D., Robert L., Archibald W., Mollie and John W. After marriage Mr. Clinard commenced the cooper business on his own responsibility. In 1856 he came to Springfield and erected a shop and has ever since carried on his trade in connection with farming and is the owner of 220 acres of good land. He is highly esteemed as an honest man and worthy citizen. He believes the old maxim that "a rolling stone gathers no moss," and has never been over forty miles away from his birthplace and has never lived outside of his county. In politics he is a Democrat. His wife is a member of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church.
F. G. Cobbs is a son of James H. and Elizabeth (Hill) Cobbs. The father was born in Virginia and by profession was a carpenter and millwright. To him and wife were born five children, all of whom lived to be men and women. They were William H., Andrew J., F. G., Virginia and Missouri. The father died at his son William's residence, in Texas, in 1863. The mother died in 1832, after which our subject made his home with George Lowrey and began learning the machinist's trade. Two years later he began living with his uncle, James Hill, but about [p.1138] two years later went to Nashville and worked at the tinner's trade. He then went to Sumner County and did some farming, also working in a stave factory. January 27, 1841, he married Miss Almeda McCormick, and to them were born several children, all dead. He has been a shoe-cobbler since 1845. He and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church South, in which he has been a deacon for about twenty-five years. He belongs to the Good Templars and has been a life-long Democrat.
John B. Cocke, a young and enterprising farmer, was born April 11, 1859, in Montgomery County, Tenn., and at an early age was left without a mother. His education was acquired in the county schools of Montgomery County and in the Southwestern University at Clarksville. He also attended high school at Adams Station. December 1, 1878, he wedded Ellen Gwynn, daughter of H. T. and Martha A. Gwynn. Mrs. Cocke was born June 12, 1860, in Wilson County, Tenn., and to her union with Mr. Cocke were born two children, named Ruth and Hugh Bell. After marriage he located in the Seventeenth District and commenced farming on his own responsibility. In 1880 he located on a thirty-one acre tract which he received from his mother's estate. In 1883 he sold out and bought a tract of land in District No. 6, Robertson County, where he settled and now resides. He is a young man of push and energy, which are essential to success. In politics he is a Democrat and he and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church South. Our subject was the son of A. B. and Mary A. (Bell) Cocke. The father was of French extraction and was born in 1820, in Montgomery County, Tenn. He was a Methodist minister by profession and at the time of his marriage, which occurred October 2, 1855, he lived in his native county where he remained until 1874, when he came to Robertson County and settled at Saddlersville, where he remained until his career ended. He died November 27, 1884. He devoted the greater part of his life to ministerial work, being superanuated two years before his death. Our subject's mother was born February 11, 1838, in Robertson County, Tenn. She died July 4, 1860, in the bloom of youth and beauty, being only twenty-two years old. Mr. A. B. Cocke's second wife was Martha A. Durham.
J. B. Cole was born in Robertson County, Tenn., in 1836, and is a son of Reuben Cole, who came from North Carolina to Tennesee in 1806; his grandfather was William Cole, also of North Carolina. The Cole family came originally from Scotland. The subject's mother was of German descent. His father was a school-teacher and died December 6, 1851. Our subject was reared on a farm and received his education at [p.1139] the country schools. When he arrived at the proper age he began learning the miller's trade in Logan County, Ky., and this trade he has followed for a number of years. In 1856 he was married to Miss Jonella Conner, daughter of Arthur Conner, and to this union one child, John R., has been born. Mr. Cole has followed his trade for some time and is now running the old Murphy & Hendley Mill, built in 1868, and which has the capacity of grinding 150 bushels of grain per day. Mr. Cole is a good industrious citizen and is respected by all.
Archer B. Couts, a prominent farmer of the Third District, was born November 3, 1833, in this county. His parents were John and Henrietta (Owens) Couts. The father was of German descent, born in Robertson County in September, 1798. He followed farming during his life. He died May 2, 1868. The mother was born in this county in 1803 and lived to the advanced age of eighty-two, her death occurring in 1885. Archer B., of whom this sketch is written, was reared on a farm and remained with his parents to the age of twenty-one. In 1857 he was married to Sarah C. Green, a native of this county, born in 1837. To this marriage have been born eleven children, viz.: Lizzie, Archie, John, Sally, Milton, Joseph, Nellie, Lillie, Emma, Effie and Susie. The next year after marriage he purchased 229 acres of land, where he has ever since successfully pursued farming, and now owns 429 acres in the county where he now resides. He is a good citizen of the county and has the respect of all who know him. He is a member of the Missionary Baptist Church and of the Democratic party.
H. J. Crocker, of Orlinda, is a son of John Crocker, and was born in Wake County, N. C., September 26, 1823. His father was born in the Keystone State in 1788; he was an only child and of English descent. He was married in North Carolina to Penelopy Babb, and was the father of twelve children, and died in 1851. Our subject attended the common schools and at the age of thirteen entered the military school at Chapel Hill. Remaining three sessions he then worked in a dry goods store in Raleigh for some time, and in 1844 came to Tennessee, and lived with his uncle, Burrell Babb, four years. He then returned to Raleigh, N. C., for one year; then returned to Tennessee and married Lucinda Ellen Doss in 1850; he then purchased some land and settled in Robertson County, where he made his principal business farming until 1869, when he purchased the land where the town of Orlinda now is, and built a fine two-story brick building for a store-house, it being the first building in the place. He then commenced a successful mercantile business. Mr. Crocker has seven children: John A., Eugene L., James M., M. Rozella, Henderson J., Jr., Leonidas L. and Willie L. John A. is now connected [p.1140] with his father in the mercantile business. They keep an excellent stock of general merchandise and have the best business house in this part of the country. Mr. Crocker and all his family are members of the Missionary Baptist Church.
C. B. Darden, farmer of Robertson County, Tenn., is the son of Berry and Mahala Darden, natives of this county, born in 1800 and 1808, respectively. The father died in 1879 and was the youngest of eleven children. The mother's maiden name was Byrns. Our subject was the eighth of twelve children, and was born March 4, 1842, and his boyhood days were spent in attending the district schools and working on the farm. When nineteen years of age he enlisted in Company F, Eleventh Tennessee, and was in some of the most important battles of the war. He was at Murfreesboro, Missionary Ridge and Chickamauga. He purchased a farm in 1867, but two years later sold out and in 1876 purchased the old homestead, where he has since resided. He owns 290 acres of land and is one of Robertson County's best farmers. January 30, 1868, he wedded Virginia A. Bartlett, daughter of Robert and Jane (Gunn) Bartlett. They have had two children, Mary E. and Robert B. Mary died in 1884. Both husband and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church South. Mr. Darden is a Democrat and cast his first presidential vote for Horace Greeley. He is a member of the F. &. A. M.
Richard C. Darden, one of the old citizens of Robertson County, was born November 29, 1826, in this county, and is the son of Jesse and Amelia (Poke) Darden. The father was of Irish descent, and was born in 1800 in the State of Virginia. He was a farmer by occupation, and in connection with this was a shoe-maker. He was living in Robertson County at the time of his marriage, which occurred in 1821. In this county he passed the remainder of his days. His death occurred in 1862. He had been twice married, his second wife being Jane White. The mother was born about 1803, in this county. She died about 1830. Our subject was educated in the county schools, and made his home with his parents until he was fifteen years of age. He then commenced working for himself at the blacksmith's trade, and continued this for about six years. At the age of twenty-two he abandoned his trade and started on a pleasure trip, going to New York, where he boarded a vessel and sailed to Rio Janeiro, South America, Falkland Islands and around the coast to California. He was on the water six months, and after remaining in California for six months he returned home by way of Central America, reaching his birthplace after an absence of over two years. In October, 1851, he married Mary Marshall, daughter of Gilbert Marshall. Mrs. Darden was born in 1828, in Tennessee, and by her union [p.1141] with Mr. Darden she became the mother of four children: Jesse Gilbert and Gilbert Jesse (twins), Adaline and Margaret. In 1862 Mr. Darden enlisted in the Confederate Army, in a Cavalry company. At the close of the war he returned home and resumed farming. In 1876 he returned to Robertson County and bought 145 acres of land four miles south of Adams' Station, where he yet resides. Mr. Darden has met with some severe losses, having had three dwelling houses consumed by fire, but he was not to be discouraged, and set about at once to erect another. He was married to Rebecca E. (Timms) Green, who was born February 26, 1842. Dr. Darden is a man of good character, and is highly respected as an honest and worthy citizen. In politics he votes for principle instead of party. He is a Mason, and he and wife are member of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church.
James Darden (deceased), was born in Virginia, May 4, 1799, son of Jacob and Patience (Carr) Darden. The father was born in Virginia, and always made his home there. He was a farmer. James Darden came to Tennessee with his mother, sister and brother about 1816, and located in Montgomery County. March 14, 1822, he married Lucinda B. Carr, daughter of John and Temperance (Gardner) Carr. She was born October 17, 1808, and is the mother of six children: Isabella, Robert J., Jesse E., William H., Lizzie C. and Mary L. Mr. Darden resided in Turnersville for some time after his marriage, and in 1837 settled on a farm and erected a large dwelling house. Here he passed the remainder of his days. He was a very prosperous farmer, and owned 1,200 acres of land in Robertson County and 3,000 acres in the State of Arkansas. He died May 19, 1869. He was known throughout the county as Maj. Darden. Since his death the mother has resided on the old homestead, with the exception of three years. Mr. Clinard, her daughter Mary's husband, has control of the farm, and Mrs. Darden resides with him. Mr. Darden was a member of the Missionary Baptist Church, and was deacon in the same. Mrs. Darden is also a member of that church, and owns 400 acres of land.
G. W. Davis, senior member of the firm of Davis & Ogburn, grocery-men, of Springfield, was born July 6, 1825, in Robertson County, Tenn., and is the son of Jesse and Susan (Kirby) Davis. The father was of German extraction and was born in 1786 in Virginia; he married, but his first wife lived but a short time and after moving around for some time, at last settled in Robertson County where he was married to our subject's mother; he was a school-teacher and followed that profession for about fourteen years. In 1840 he was elected clerk of the circuit court, which office he ably filled for nearly eight years, his term would [p.1142] have expired in June 1848 but the May previous he died. The mother was born 1798 and died in 1841. Our subject was reared at home and received his education in the county schools, and also in Springfield. At the age of eighteen he went to Mississippi and hired out as a day laborer picking cotton; here he remained for one year and then went to Memphis and commenced clerking in a grocery store; he here worked eighteen months and then returned to his birthplace and hired out to his brother Richard A., in his dry goods store. On February 24, 1852, he was married to Elizabeth J. Connell, who was born March 9, 1833. To this union were born three children: Susan E., Addie and Georgie. At the time of his marriage Mr. Davis was in partnership with his brother, and 1853 he sold his interest and commenced business for himself in general merchandise, which he has continued nearly ever since. In 1867 he bought a half interest in the grist-mill at Springfield, and in 1875 he engaged in brick-making. In 1879 he commenced business in his present establishment. Mr. Davis is a leading business man of the South, and has been for thirty years. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity and the Methodist Episcopal Church.
Charles J. Davis, magistrate and insurance agent, was born January 4, 1839, in Robertson County, Tenn., and is the youngest child born to Jesse and Susan (Kirby) Davis. Our subject was reared without a mother's watchful care, she having died when our subject was but two years old. He received his education in Liberty Academy at Springfield. When about fourteen years of age he hired out as a day laborer, working on the farm, but during school session attending school. In 1857 he abandoned farm work and hired out as clerk in the hardware and agricultural store of his brother George. The following year he engaged himself as clerk in a dry goods store; he continued here until the commencement of hostilities between the North and South. In 1861 he became depot and express agent of Springfield, holding the office until the fall of Fort Donelson, when he resumed clerking. In 1864 he opened up a dry goods store in Springfield on his own responsibility, where he remained for three years, at the end of which time he sold his stock of goods and entered into partnership with John R. Bridges, in the distillery business. In 1867 he was appointed by President Johnson as United States Revenue Gauger of the Fifth Tennessee District, which office he ably filled for the next two years. January 13, 1870, Mr. Davis wedded Mary Johnson, a native of Alabama, born February 10, 1843. Since 1875 he has been engaged in the insurance business. August, 1882, he was elected magistrate of the Fourth District. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity, also a member of the K. of H., and [p.1143] he and wife are worthy members of the Methodist Episcopal Church South.
T. J. Doss was born where he now lives, November 12, 1825, and is the sixth of eight children born to Azariah Doss, who was born in North Carolina in 1785. This family is of English-Irish descent. Our subject's father was reared on a farm in North Carolina, where he lived with his people until he was almost twenty-five years of age. He then came to Tennessee, and was soon after married to Elizabeth Graves. Soon after his marriage, which was during the war of 1812, he went into the service of his country, and was at the battle of New Orleans and in the Creek Indian war. After the war he located on the farm where our subject now lives, which at that time was only 100 acres of land, but by industry and economy added till it numbers 200 acres. He died in 1869 and his wife in 1864. Our subject remained with his father and mother until their death, and now owns the old homestead. In 1861 he was married to Susan E. Elison, and to this union were born eight children: Zula J., Thomas J., Sophia E., John W., Laura A., James E., Clarence E. and Claud. Our subject has always lived on the old place and carried on farming. He is a member of the Masonic lodge, and he and family belong to the Presbyterian Church. Mr. Doss is an energetic and industrious man, and is respected by all.
Harris Dowlen was born in Davidson County, Tenn., December 3, 1808, son of Harris and Susan (Hargrove) Dowlen. The father was born in North Carolina, and when a young man came to Tennessee, in 1795, and worked at the carpenter's trade. In 1797 he was married. The mother died in 1820, leaving six children, four now living. The father again married, and reared seven children; he died in 1855. Until twenty-seven years of age the subject of this sketch resided with his family. February 2, 1839, he wedded Susan Shaw, and immediately purchased part of the farm on which he now resides. To them were born twelve children, all of whom are living, save one: Martha V. (Sawyer), residing in Kentucky; Laura A., residing at home; Harris, Jr.; Nancy (Felts); Sarah (Felts); John S.; Cicero; Susan H. (Frey); Leonidas W.; Ella and Alma B. The mother's parents came from North Carolina. Mr. Dowlen has been a prosperous farmer, and has reared a large family of children. He has served eighteen years as magistrate of his district. He and wife are members of the Free-Will Baptist Church, and he is a Democrat in his political views. Mrs. Dowlen was born November 24, 1821, and is a daughter of John and Martha (Binkley) Shaw. Her Grandfather Shaw was born in Scotland, and came to North Carolina, and some of his descendants are now living in Tennessee. He was drowned in [p.1144] the freshet of 1824. Harris Dowlen, Jr., was born September 28, 1841. At the breaking out of the war he enlisted in the Thirtieth Tennessee Infantry, and surrendered with his regiment at Fort Donelson. He was a prisoner at Camp Butler, Ill., but escaped and returned to Tennessee; but was recaptured, exchanged, rejoined his regiment, and served until the close of the war. He was at Raymond, Jackson, Chickamauga, and was with Gen. J. E. Johnson in the Georgia campaign, and was with Hood in Tennessee. October 3, 1867, he married Lucy Fontaine, born January 6, 1846, daughter of Moses A. and Martha (Freeman) Fontaine. To them eight children were born, seven of whom are living: Earnest F., Willard M., Nancy I., Martha E., Joseph E., Moses B. and John A. In 1873 Harris Dowlen, Jr., located on the farm where he now lives, and owns 310 acres of good land. His wife belongs to the Methodist Church South.
John H. Dunn was born July 7, 1832, in Robertson County, being one of seven children born to the marriage of Azariah Dunn and Mary Crawford. The father was of Scotch-Irish descent, and was born in Robertson County, on Christmas day, 1805. He never knew a mother's care, as she died when he was but eleven days old. He followed the life of a trader when in his young manhood, but afterward commenced farming, which he continued all his life. He was summoned by death's inevitable call October 26, 1867. The mother of our subject is also of Scotch-Irish descent. She was born in Rockingham County, N. C., January 16, 1811, and at the age of nine years was brought to this county where she now lives, at the ripe old age of seventy-five, although she is hale and strong and enjoying good health. In 1852 John H. began farming on rented land, and in 1854 he bought 100 acres where he now lives and is engaged in the pursuit of farming. He has been justly successful, and now owns 1,800 acres of land. He has been one of the most successful farmers of Robertson County, and has the good will and respect of all who know him. He is a member of the Democratic party and of the Methodist Episcopal Church South.
John R. Dunn, M. D., of Turnersville, Tenn., was born January 22, 1832, and is the younger of the two sons and eight daughters of John and Mary (Carter) Dunn. The father was of Irish descent born in 1803. He was a farmer and was married in 1824. In 1873 they broke up housekeeping and lived among their children. The father died in 1883. The mother was born in 1805 and is now living with our subject, who received his literary education in the country schools. When about twenty years of age he began studying medicine under Dr. J. M. Thurston, and at the end of eight months entered the medical department of the [p.1145] University of Nashville, graduating in 1855. He then located in Turnersville and has since practiced his profession in that place. December 4, 1856, he married Emma E. Menees, daughter of Benjamin W. and Elizabeth Menees. Mrs. Dunn was born November 31, 1836, and has borne one child: John W., born in 1858, who is now practicing medicine with his father. He graduated in the medical department of the Vanderbilt University in 1880, and in the same department of the Nashville University in 1881. October 22, 1884, he married Ellen J. Allesworth, born in 1861. They have one child, Ellen E. Dr. Dunn, our subject, is one of the leading physicians of Robertson County, and his son, John, is following in his footsteps. The Doctor is a Democrat and a member of the Masonic fraternity. He and family are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
B. L. Eddings is one of a family of seven whose parents are Ruby W. and Lucinda D. (Mason) Eddings, natives of Robertson County. He was also born in this county, the date of his birth being October 17, 1854. His father was born in 1824, and has followed the avocation of a farmer. At present he, the father, is living in Adairville, Ky., where he is engaged in the marble business. The mother was born in 1831, and is also living at Adairville, Ky. The immediate subject of this sketch was twenty-four years of age before leaving his home, he having received his education in the country schools of the county. He chose for his helpmeet, and bridal companion Susie Holman, and was united to her in wedlock in 1878. Mrs. Eddings was born in this county March 10, 1855, being a daughter of Calvin and Winneford Holman. Mr. Edding is the father of two children in this union, viz.: Earnest L. and Winnie L. In 1881 he bought 100 acres of land in Robertson County, where he has ever since been engaged in the pursuit of agriculture. Politically he is a member of the Democratic party, and bears the respect of those who know him.
Jonathan Edwards, tobacco dealer and farmer, was born January 13, 1839, in Robertson County, Tenn., and received his education in the county schools. In 1861 he enlisted in Company E, Fiftieth Regiment Tennessee Infantry, and participated in the battles of Fort Donelson, Fort Henry, Vicksburg, Raymond, Jackson (Miss.), Calhoun, Chickamauga, Missionary Ridge, Franklin, Murfreesboro and others. May 24, 1866, he married Ann Elliott, daughter of Joshua Elliott. Mrs. Edwards was born in 1843 in Robertson County, and by her union with Mr. Edwards became the mother of four children: Liona, Elliott, Willie and Charlie. Mr. Edwards bought 145 acres four miles south of Adams Station, where he located and where he still lives. In 1881 he commenced [p.1146] buying tobacco with Crouch & Co. In 1884 he consolidated with Charles Halms and from that date until the present the firm has been known as Halms & Edwards. Mr. Edwards is a Democrat in politics. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity, and he and his wife are worthy member of the Missionary Baptist Church. Our subject was the son of Joseph and Harriet (Mitchell) Edwards. The father was of Irish extraction and was born in 1800 in Virginia. He was a farmer by occupation. In youth he left his native State and came to Robertson County with his parents, where he remained until his death, which occurred in 1854. The mother was of Irish-English extraction and was born in 1804. After the death of her husband she kept house until Jonathan was married, after which he kindly cared for her the remainder of her life. She died in 1877.
William H. England is a son of I. and M. (Pike) England. The father was in limited circumstances, and his death occurred in 1862. Our subject, who was but a small lad, made his home with Miles Kirby, of Springfield, a harness-maker by trade, and resided with him until after his marriage. Mr. England was conductor on the Louisville & Nashville Railroad for twelve years, and after leaving the road purchased a farm of 275 acres, and was a tiller of the soil for eight years. He then disposed of his farm and moved to Springfield, where he engaged in the grocery business with Davis & Ogburn. October 1, 1884, Mr. England retired from the business and purchased a farm of James H. Burnes, which contains 400 acres. He is quite an extensive tobacco raiser, and his crop amounts to 9,000 pounds annually. Mr. England is honest and industrious, and in politics is a Democrat, and although quite an old man, cast his first vote for Grover Cleveland in 1884. He is a member of the F. & A. M., and he and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church South. Mr. England has been twice married, the first time to Mary Connell, who bore him four children. She died June 30, 1880. Mr. England then married a sister of his first wife, Miss Kate Connell.
Josiah Farmer is the son of Josiah and Sarah (Batts) Farmer, born in 1785 and 1795, respectively, both of English descent. They came to Tennessee at a very early period. The mother's father was in the war of 1812, and participated in some of its most important battles. Our subject was born August 11, 1826. He secured a common school education and August 11, 1850, was united in marriage to Miss Nancy M. Long, who became the mother of eleven children; those now living are Emily, John J., Ada L., Nancy M., Flora M., James L. Mr. Farmer removed from his farm to Cedar Hill in order that his children might have better educational advantages. He has, however, superintended his farm, and [p.1147] is now the owner of 397 acres of land all well under cultivation. At the breaking out of the war he was the owner of fourteen slaves, which at that time were worth more than all his other possessions. He is a good farmer, and is looked upon as one of the solid business men of the county. He and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church South, and he has been trustee of the same for many years. He is a Democrat, and cast his first vote for Taylor.
Wiley D. Farmer, an enterprising citizen, was born May 7, 1830, in Robertson County, Tenn., and is the son of Joseph and Elizabeth (Glisson) Farmer. The father was born May 13, 1810, in Robertson County, and was a farmer by occupation. Our subject's grandfather, was a native of North Carolina, and came to Robertson County about 1800 and located in the Eighth District. Here he remained until his career ended. Joseph Farmer lived in this county at the time of his marriage, and afterward bought property in the Sixth District. About 1860 he broke up housekeeping, and has since been living with his children. The mother was born in 1812 in Robertson County, Tenn., and died April 29, 1846. Our subject was reared on the farm, and received his education in the county schools. At the age of twenty-one he hired out as a day laborer, and worked this way for five years, when he bought fifty-two acres near Adams Station, where he commenced farming on his own responsibility. December 1, 1855, he married Frances V. Dillard, daughter of Wesley Dillard. Mrs. Farmer was born April 30, 1836, in Robertson County, Tenn., and to her union with Mr. Farmer became the mother of one child, named Secondas. After marriage Mr. Farmer settled on his farm, and there he has since lived. He has been a hard-working and an industrious man. By his energy and industry he owns 215 acres of good land. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and in politics he is a Democrat. January 22, 1884, he had the misfortune to lose his wife.
Enoch Farthing, one of the pioneers of Robertson County, was born in Pittsylvania County, Va., January 20, 1811. His father, Richard Farthing, was of Scotch descent, and was born in Virginia, in 1776. He was a farmer, and in 1823 he moved to Robertson County, Tenn., where he followed his vocation till his death in 1861. The mother was also born in Pittsylvania County, Va. Her death occurred in Robertson County, Tenn., in 1855. Until attaining the age of twenty-two our subject remained with his parents, having secured but a common school education, such as was afforded in his early day by the county schools. He chose and married Lucinda, the daughter of Daniel and Susan Highsmith, the ceremony being solemnized in 1834. Mrs. Farthing was born [p.1148] October 22, 1810. The result of this union has been three children: Susan W., Richard T. and Amanda F. In 1833 Mr. Farthing bought fifty acres of land in District No. 4, Robertson County, and commenced farming, where he has been very successful. In politics he is a Democrat. He has succeeded in gaining the respect and good will of his fellow-citizens of the county.
Richard T. Farthing, the second of Enoch Farthing's family, was born in this county August 14, 1837. He was reared at home until he was twenty-two years of age, receiving a common education. In 1860 he was united in matrimonial bonds to Mary E. Poor, the daughter of George and Brilla Poor. Mrs. Farthing was born in Logan County, Ky., May 21, 1839. She has become the mother of two children by this marriage, viz.: Emma S. and Lulu F. In 1861 Mr. Farthing commenced farming for himself, and in 1865 he bought fifty-three acres of land, and is now the owner of 178 acres, all lying in District No. 4. He has been successful as a farmer and bears the respect of all who know him. He is a member of the Primitive Baptist Church.
A. G. Farthing was born in Robertson County, Tenn., December 28, 1845, and was the son of Ephraim Farthing, who was born in Virginia, April 20, 1820. His grandfather, Richard Farthing, was also of Virginia. When the subject was a child his father came to Tennessee and settled near Barren Plains. His mother's maiden name was Eva Taylor, and she was the daughter of Mills Taylor. His father's family numbered nine children, seven of whom are living, namely: C. C., A. G., Mary, Josie, W. F., D. C. and J. B. Our subject was reared on a farm till he became of age. In 1871 he was married to Miss Fannie Willis, daughter of T. J. Willis, of Tennessee. Mr. Farthing owns and cultivates 100 acres of good land, and is considered a very successful farmer. His undivided attention is given to his occupation.
D. S. Featherston, proprietor of a livery and feed stable, was born August 6, 1832, in Robertson County, Tenn., and is a son of William and Elizabeth (Jones) Featherston. The father was born in Virginia about 1773. In 1830 he came to Robertson County, and locating, began cultivating the soil. He remained in the county until his death, which occurred in 1866, dying at the ripe age of over ninety. The mother was born about 1781, in Virginia, and died in 1864, at the advanced age of eighty-three. Our subject was reared at home and helped on the farm until he was twenty-one years of age, and received a rather limited education, as he was needed at home to assist on the farm. January 29, 1854, he married Susan Crawford, daughter of Charles and Lucy Crawford. Mrs. Featherston was born in 1838, in Tennessee. To our subject [p.1149] and wife were born three children: Charles, Idella (wife of John Ragsdale) and Thomas. Charles is working for his father, and Thomas is telegraph operator. Mr. Featherston lost his wife June 29, 1873, and January 27, of the following year, was married to Elizabeth Dorris, a native of Tennessee, born in 1844. To this union were born two children: Mattie and Lizzie. In his youthful days, after becoming his own man, Mr. Featherston teamed for some time and after two years contracted to carry the mail from Springfield to Nashville, which business he engaged in for three years. About 1857 bought an interest in a saw-mill near Springfield which he ran for seven years. He then was in the livery and feed stable business, but gave that up and went to teaming again, which lasted until 1873, when he bought a livery and feed stable and is in that business at the present time. Mr. Featherston is a No. 1 business man and bends all his energies to please the public. In politics he is very conservative, always voting for principle and not for party. He is a member of the I. O. O. F., and he and wife are members of the Baptist Church.
W. R. Featherston, merchant, of Cedar Hill, Tennessee, is a native of the State and was born April 10, 1845, son of J. W. and Emily (Jackson) Featherson. The father was born in Virginia in 1821, and came to Tennessee about 1830, where he farmed and taught school. Our subject remained at home until twenty-two years of age. He graduated from the Cedar Hill Academy in 1865. He then farmed two years and clerked for G. W. Davis eight mouths. He then became a partner of S. J. Alley in the merchandise business. Soon after Mr. Alley retired and W. Dardon became his partner. A year later Mr. Featherston became sole proprietor, and January 2, 1878, was married to Miss M. E. Long. They have one child, Bertha F., now about four years of age. Our subject is one of Cedar Hill's leading business men and is honest and upright in all his dealings. He and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church South, and he is a member of the F. & A. M., and a stanch Democrat politically.
Rev. S. W. Featherston was born in Robertson County, Tenn., in 1824, and was one of thirteen children born to Burrell Featherston, a native of Virginia, born in 1777 or 1778. Of Mr. Featherston's family very little of the early history is known, as most of the facts were destroyed during the late war. His father was reared on the farm, and during his lifetime followed the occupation of farming. Our subject was reared on a farm, and in 1842 was united in marriage to Martha Redjarrain, who became the mother of two children: Nancy P. and William Pitts. Mr. Featherston's wife died December 2, 1885. In 1851 he professed religion, and was united with the Baptist Church, and in 1855 [p.1150] he commenced his labors as a minister of the gospel, and has been connected with that church since his ministerial duties began, and has been preaching to the same people successively for a period of twenty-five years. He was a self-educated man, and has not only been successful as a minister of the gospel, but has carried on his farming interests also. He has never had a law-suit, nor a settlement that was not satisfactory to all parties concerned. He now owns 140 acres of land, and has by his honest integrity gained the friendship and good will of all his acquaintances.
Richard P. Felts is a son of Wyatt A. and Angeline (Shaw) Felts, and was born in Tennessee August 9, 1845. The Felts family came to Robertson County, Tenn., from North Carolina at a very early day. In 1839 the father settled on the farm of 140 acres he now occupies. Four of his children are still living; one, Adolphus, left Illinois three years ago for Nebraska, and has not been heard from since. The other four live in this county. For two years after his twenty-first birthday Richard P. Felts worked on different farms. At the end of that time he purchased sixty-nine acres of land, which he farmed four years. March 23, 1871, he wedded Martha E. Fontaine, and they became the parents of five children, one of whom is deceased. Those living are Myra M., Enola K., Nicola I. and Bettie M. The child deceased was a son, who died in infancy. In 1878 Mr. Felts began keeping store in partnership with Mr. Bainbridge. In 1880, becoming dissatisfied with selling goods, he returned to farm life. He owns 322 acres of land, and is doing well financially. Both he and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and he is a Democrat in his political views.
William D. Fort, farmer, was born July 25, 1843, in Robertson County, and is the son of Eppy L. and Elizabeth (Dancy) Fort. The father was of English descent, and was born in 1802 in Robertson County. He was a farmer by occupation. Our subject's grandfather, Sugg Fort, was a native of North Carolina and came to Tennessee in 1791, and was one of the very first settlers in the county. Eppy was married in July, 1840, and settled on the old home place, where he yet resides. He now owns 440 acres and is one of Robertson County's oldest citizens. He has a splendid memory and an active mind; is a member of the Masonic fraternity and has been twice married. Our subject received his education in the county schools of his native county, and after reaching man's estate he assumed charge of the old place and has looked after the interest of it ever since. February 24, 1881, he wedded Anna Hamlett, daughter of A. J. and Winnie (McNeill) Hamlett. Mrs. Fort was born May 25, 1865, in Tennessee, and to her union with Mr. Fort one child was born, [p.1151] named Bessie. Mr. Fort located near the old homestead, where he has since resided. He now owns 500 acres and is a well-to-do farmer. He bears an unsullied reputation and is a man of very temperate habits. In politics he is a Democrat. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity. His wife is a member of the Baptist Church.
Dr. Samuel W. Frey, of Cooperstown, is one of nine children of Martin P. and Nancy (Neely) Frey. The father was of German lineage, and was born in Robertson County in 1823 and is a house carpenter. His father, Peter Frey, was a North Carolinian by birth, and came to Tennessee about 1800 and lived in several counties. Martin Frey lived in Montgomery County at the time of his marriage (1850), and settled in Cheatham County. In 1870 he established an undertaking establishment, continuing until a few years ago, when he retired from business life. The mother was born in Tennessee in 1825. Our subject was born on the 17th of April, 1853, and was educated in the Millwood Academy, and resided with his parents until attaining his majority. July 27, 1869, he married Nancy F. York, daughter of J. L. and M. M. York. After his marriage the Doctor farmed two years in his native county, and then came to Robertson County, Tenn., and continued cultivating the soil. In March, 1876, he began studying medicine under Dr. R. G. Glover, and the same year entered the medical department of the Vanderbilt University, at Nashville, and graduated as an M. D. in 1878. He then located in Cooperstown, where he has since resided, and built up an excellent practice. His wife died February 3, 1876, and February 20, 1877, he wedded Mary E. York, sister of his first wife and three years her senior. They have two children: Lesa and Mary Beatrice. The Doctor has a thorough knowledge of his profession, and is a true gentleman. He began his work under discouraging circumstances, but by his energy he has built up a good paying practice. He and wife are members of the Christian Church.
C. J. Frey was born near where he now lives, September 17, 1835, son of Adam H. and grandson of Jacob Frey, who came to Tennessee from North Carolina when a young man and located in Robertson County and married Mary Johnson. He died in 1848. The father was born on a farm in 1810. He was twice married, the first time to Dorothea Quine, who bore him ten children, and the second time to Martha Seal, who bore one child. He died in 1883 and his first wife in 1863. His second wife is yet living. Our subject was reared on a farm and acquired a good education. He taught school in Robertson County for about five years, and in the fall of 1861 enlisted in Company K, Thirtieth Tennessee Volunteer Infantry, and was captured with his regiment at Fort Donelson. [p.1152] He was exchanged in 1862, and was in the battles of Raymond and Jackson, Miss, Chickamauga, Resaca, Atlanta and Augusta, where he was captured, but while en route to prison he and three comrades jumped from the train and escaped. He returned home and went to Illinois, where he remained until the close of the war. He then returned to Tennessee, and February 25, 1866, married Mary E. Estes, daughter of Joe and Henrietta Estes. To Mr. and Mrs. Frey were born these children: Willie D., Effie D., Martha T., Ula D. (deceased), Margaret A. and Katie L. Mr. Frey has been a farmer and owns 171 acres of land. He has also taught a number of terms of school, and is now engaged in general merchandising since 1876. He belongs to the Masons.
S. Q. Fuqua, an enterprising farmer of the Third District, was born on Christmas day, in the year 1851. His parents were Samuel and Eliza (Kirk) Fuqua. Our subject passed his youthful days with his parents, remaining at the parental home till nineteen, and receiving a common country school education. In 1872 he purchased 121 acres of land lying in the Third District, where he has ever since been successfully engaged in the pursuit of farming, and now owning 220 acres. October 27, 1877, he was married to Mary A. Bell, who was born to the union of Joel E. and Rebecca Bell, in this county, in July, 1849. Mrs. Fuqua is the mother of five children by this union, viz.: George, Ida, Edna, Albert and Ray. Mr. Fuqua bears the respect of his fellow-citizens, and is a member of the Baptist Church. Politically, he is member of the Democratic party. His father is of French ancestry, born in Davidson County in 1814. He was a farmer by occupation. At the time of his marriage he was living in Simpson County, Ky., but he removed to Robertson County, Tenn., before his death, which occurred on January 24, 1881, he having lived to the mature age of sixty-seven. The mother is a native of Simpson County, Ky., where she was born in 1815, and is at present living in this county at the advanced age of seventy-one.
G. B. Fyke was born February 8, 1847, son of Jeremiah and Beady (Sellers) Fyke, and grandson of Nathan and Nancy (Howell) Fyke, natives of North Carolina. The father of our subject was their youngest child and was a farmer and shoe-maker. He was married three times, our subject being the child of his first wife. He attended school at Cedar Hill, and when twenty-one years of age began working for his father on the farm, continuing six years. He was married to Mary Solomon May 13, 1875, and purchased the farm of 116 acres where he now resides. They have one child, Eula M., born August 29, 1880. Mr. Fyke has been quite prosperous in his agricultural enterprises and raises corn, wheat and tobacco. [p.1153] The family are good, substantial citizens, and the father is a Democrat and cast his first vote for Seymour. He and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church South.
William N. Gaines, farmer, was born October 8, 1849, in Montgomery County, Tenn., and was left an orphan at an early age. After the death of his parents he made his home with his aunt, Sallie Allen, with whom he remained until he was twenty-one years old, receiving his education in the county schools. He then assumed control of the old home place, his Aunt Sallie keeping house for him. July 27, 1876, he married Mary Bellaway, daughter of Robert and Sallie Bellaway. Mrs. Gaines was born December 25, 1847, in Kentucky, and by her union with Mr. Gaines became the mother of three children, named Sallie, Ella and Carrie. In 1871 Mr. Gaines settled in Robertson County, one-half mile from Port Royal, where he has since resided. Mr. Gaines now owns 448 acres and is a wealthy farmer. He bears an unsullied reputation and is highly spoken of by all his acquaintances. Mr. Gaines votes for principle and not for party. His wife is a member of the Baptist Church. Our subject was the son of Abraham and Louisa (Norfleet) Gaines. The father was born in 1805 in Robertson County, Tenn., and was a merchant in his early life, but afterward engaged in farming. He died in 1857. The mother was born October 15, 1815, in Robertson County. She died March 24, 1850, in the bloom of womanhood, being only thirty-five years old.
T. H. Gardner, one of the old citizens and farmers of Robertson County, was born January 26, 1820, in this county, and in the house where he now resides. He received his education in the country schools. His health was quite poor at the time he should have attended school, and consequently his education is quite limited. At the early age of twelve he was turned loose to go where he desired and thought best. He went to West Tennessee, and began clerking in a dry goods store. He proved to be an efficient and trustworthy boy and remained in the same business about eight years. In 1840 he returned to the parental roof and at once commenced work on the farm. December 16, 1842, he wedded Frances M. Whitehead, daughter of Robert and Marilla S. Whitehead. Mrs. Gardner was born January 14, 1827, in Robertson County, Tenn., and to her union with Mr. Gardner were born these children: Charles N. Robert E., Mary S., Thomas I., George N., Almus E., William W., Lizzie D., Hart W., Fannie A. and Edward R. Mr. Gardner located on the old home place soon after his marriage and here he has since resided, the same tract being in the Gardner family for eighty-five years. Mr. Gardner is one of Robertson County's most respected citizens and is highly [p.1154] esteemed by all. In politics he has been a life-long Democrat. He is a member of the Masonic lodge and also of the Methodist Episcopal Church. November 21, 1883, he had the misfortune to lose his wife. Mr. Gardner is the son of Joshua and Mary (Polk) Gardner. The father was of English extraction and was born in 1785 in Virginia. He was a farmer by occupation and was the son of Henry Gardner, who came to Robertson County, Tenn., in 1795, and settled in the Seventh District, where his career ended. Joshua, soon after his marriage, located on the old home place, where he passed the greater part of his life. He died in February, 1847. The mother was of Irish descent and was born in 1798 in Robertson County, Tenn. She was a first cousin to ex-President Polk. She died in 1858.
Warren Glidewell was born in Robertson County, Tenn., October 23, 1838, and was the second of four children born to James Glidewell, a native also of Robertson County, born August 12, 1808, and of Irish extraction. Our subject's grandfather was a native of Virginia, and was an officer in the Revolutionary war, and his only child was our subject's father, who was reared on a farm and at the age of twenty-two was married. He lived to a ripe old age and was universally known and respected as an honest and industrious man. He was buried at the old homestead. His wife still lives in Kentucky. Our subject received a fair education in the common schools, and at the age of eighteen was married to his present wife. After his marriage he hired on his father's old place for fifteen years, and then on his Grandfather Warren's place for eight or nine years; he then bought the Armstrong place on which he now lives and owns 250 acres of land. He is the father of eight children of whom five are now living: James, Clement, John F., Susan and Bell Moore. He and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and during the war he was in Company K, Thirtieth Tennessee, and was captured at Donelson, but effected his escape. He is a straightforward honest man, and is respected by all.
Richard G. Glover, M. D., of Cooperstown, Tenn., was born June 22, 1822, and is a son of Robert S. and Martha (Williams) Glover, born in Virginia and North Carolina. They both came to Tennessee when young and were married in 1818. The father was a distiller and twice married. He died in 1866 and the mother in 1835 of cholera. After his mother's death our subject was put to live with a farmer, but not liking his treatment he consequently took French leave of him and went to an uncle, to whom he hired for $3 per month. At the end of two years he went to his uncle, Robert Williams, and worked for him two years. He then made his home with another uncle, Green Williams, until his marriage. [p.1155] He studied at odd intervals and acquired a good English education. He then taught school four years and acquired enough money to enable him to attend the Transylvania University at Lexington, Ky., and graduated from the medical department of that institution. His office was at Green Williams' until February 10, 1853, when he married Martha A. Fountaine and moved to Cooperstown, where he has since lived and practiced. He has met with good success and at one time owned 605 acres of land. His wife was born in 1826, daughter of Thomas and Ann (Watkins) Fountaine, who were the parents of seven children, only three of whom are living. The Doctor and his wife are members of the Christian Church.
J. A. Gunn, one of the prominent farmers of the Fourth District of Robertson County, was born in Logan County, Ky., April 16, 1832, being one of six children, the fruits of the union of Anderson Gunn and Martha Robinson. The father was of Scotch descent, and was born in Virginia in 1800. His early life was spent in the avocation of a saddler, but he was a farmer the major part of his life. He died in Robertson County in 1838. The mother spent her entire life-time in Robertson County, where she was born in 1804, and departed this life in 1862. The immediate subject of this sketch, whose name appears at the head of the sketch, spent his first twenty-five years at his parental home, receiving a common school education, and also attending the Tuscumbia Academy in Colbert County, Ala. In 1856 he was married to Mary Ann Bigby, the result of this union being two children, Pinkney Ann and Joseph O. In 1871 he was married to Eliza Ellet, and in 1883 he married his third wife, Katie Walker, daughter of George W. and Elizabeth Walker. Mr. Gunn first purchased, in 1859, 148 acres of land, and now owns over 760 acres. He is a successful farmer of the Fourth District. In politics he is a firm Democrat. He is a well-respected, honorable and upright citizen of the county. Besides the land mentioned above, he purchased, in 1871, 600 acres of cotton land in Alabama.
James T. and Gustavus A. Henry, proprietors of a grocery, hardware and agricultural store at Springfield, are sons of Daniel and Harriett (Cook) Henry. The father is of Irish origin, a native of Montgomery County, Tenn., born in the year 1810, and is a farmer by occupation. At the time of his marriage, which occurred in 1848, he bought 130 acres in District No. 10, where he lived until 1880, when he sold out and moved to Springfield, and is living there at the present time with the mother, who was born in 1827. Our subjects, James T., was born June 8, 1849, and Gustavus A. was born August 18, 1855, both of whom are natives of Robertson County. James T. came to Springfield in 1873, and in the [p.1156] following year he and Henry N. Bell established a grocery store, which line of goods they handled for two years, after which Mr. Bell sold his interest to T. M. Henry. November 30, 1876, James married Lula Peck, and by this union have two children living, Mary and Gustavus. January 29, 1882, James had the misfortune to lose his wife, and in February, 1885, he wedded Jennie Anderson, who was born in 1856. To this union was born one child, an infant not named. T. M. Henry sold his interest to D. L. Durrett, and in the fall of 1878 Gustavus A. Henry, our subject, bought Mr. Durrett's interest, and the firm was then known as Henry Bros. November 11, 1875, Gustavus married Olive C. Shannon, a native of Tennessee, born February 14, 1859. The firm at the present time is known as Henry Bros. & Anderson, and has a fine assortment of groceries, hardware, agricultural implements, seeds, etc. Henry Bros. have been in business, and during that time they have proved themselves to be men of energy and of good business principles. In political belief they are Democrats, and both are leading members of the Baptist Church.
Dr. R. K. Hicks, a successful practitioner of Springfield, was born in the year 1809, in Christian County, Ky., and is the son of Willis and Eleanor (Karr) Hicks. The father was of Irish-Welsh extraction, and a native of Virginia, a farmer by occupation and land speculator. He was living in Robertson County at the time of his marriage, but afterward moved to Kentucky, where his career ended. He was not permitted to live the time allotted to man, but was cut down in the prime of life in his thirty-seventh year. The mother was of Scotch-Irish origin and a native of Virginia; after the death of her husband she remained on the old home place with her children. She died in 1857. Our subject was reared without a father's care or guidance, as he was but four years old at the time of his father's demise. He was educated in the common schools of Kentucky, and in addition, when nineteen years old, he came to Springfield and finished his education at Liberty Academy. At the age of twenty-two he engaged in the teacher's profession and taught for several terms, being assistant teacher in the Liberty Academy for two sessions. At the age of twenty-six he began the study of medicine, continuing the same two years, and then graduated as an M. D. He soon began the practice of his chosen profession, and still continues. January 17, 1839, he was married to Amanda Wells, who died the same year, and in 1842 the Doctor married Ann J. Greer, who was born in 1815 in Virginia. To this union were born three children: Robert, Edwin and Ida. Dr. Hicks is one of the leading physicians of Springfield, and has been for the past forty-five years, and is also the oldest physician and surgeon in the village, and with one exception the oldest citizen. He is a Democrat in [p.1157] politics, a Mason and a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. His wife died June 1, 1871, and since then he has made his home with his daughter.
C. Highsmith, an energetic farmer of Robertson County, was born in this county August 1, 1841, he being one of eight children of James and Emily (Farthing) Highsmith. The father was born in Robertson County, March 17, 1806, and his whole life was that of a farmer. In 1859 the father moved from this county to Montgomery County, Tenn., where he now resides, having reached the eightieth year of his age. The mother was born in 1812, in Virginia, and is now living in Montgomery County, at the age of seventy-four. The subject of this sketch remained at home to the age of twenty-five years, receiving his education in the county schools. In September, 1861, he enlisted in Company B, Thirtieth Tennessee Regiment, and was in some hard-fought conflicts. He remained in the field until the close of the war, when he returned home. In 1865 he was married to Miss Temptie Ann, daughter of David and Penny Taylor. Mrs. Highsmith was born in November, 1843, in this county. She is the mother of five children by this union, viz.: Iley B., Emniviah P., Fanny M., Laura C. and Sallie. In 1881 Mr. Highsmith bought ninety-two acres of land where he carries on farming. In politics he is a Democrat. He is a member of the Missionary Baptist Church and a respectable citizen of Robertson County.
J. T. Hinkle, merchant and postmaster of Greenbrier, was born August 29, 1835, in Tennessee, and is one of a family of six children born to Henry and Anna (Thomas) Hinkle. The father was of German descent and born in 1806, in North Carolina. He was a mill-wright, and died in 1873. The mother was of English descent, born in 1801 in the State of Georgia; she died in May, 1883. The subject of our sketch was educated in the county schools and by earnest application outside of the school room. He made his home with his parents until he was twenty-five years of age. When quite young he commenced working at the wagon-maker's trade and continued until 1869, when he engaged in the mercantile trade. After one year he moved to District No. 12, and established a general merchandise store. In 1872 he came to Greenbrier, and from that day to the present he has been giving his entire attention to merchandising. February 10, 1861, he married Amanda C. Dorris, a native of Robertson County, born January 4, 1841, and a daughter of R. T. and Rebecca Dorris. Mr. and Mrs. Hinkle have one child, Eddie, born to their union. When the war broke out Mr. Hinkle was one of the boys in gray that enlisted in Company B, Ward's regiment of Morgan's command. He participated in a large [p.1158] number of fierce skirmishes and sharp engagements, and was taken captive and sent to Camp Douglas, where he was retained till the surrender at Richmond, when he returned home. Mr. Hinkle is doing a good business and is highly respected as an honest and upright man. In politics he is a Democrat, and in 1876 was appointed postmaster, which office he has ever since held with the exception of three months. In 1882 he was elected magistrate for three years. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity, and he and wife are members of the Baptist Church.
J. G. Hollingsworth, an enterprising farmer of this county, was born in Todd County, Ky., March 23, 1846, being a member of a family of three children born to the marriage of Samuel D. Hollingsworth and Emily Coleman, who were also natives of Todd County, Ky. The father was born in 1814; he was throughout his life-time a farmer of his native county. He was summoned by death in 1852. The mother was ten years younger than the father. She died in Logan County, Ky., in the year 1864. Mr. Hollingsworth, our subject, was reared on a farm to the age of nineteen, and was the recipient of a common school education. His marriage was solemnized in 1866, uniting him to Wilmouth M., daughter of James B. and Nancy Rose. Mrs. Hollingsworth was born in this county in 1842. This union has resulted in the birth of eight children, viz.: Emma, Mattie V., Sarah G., David, Josephus, Tiny W., Samuel and Urie. Mr. Hollingsworth began farming for himself in 1868, having in that year bought eighty acres of land. He now owns 323 acres having been successful in the avocation of farming. He has succeeded in gaining the respect of all who know him. In politics he is a Democrat.
C. G. Holman, one of the enterprising farmers of the Fourth District, Robertson County, was born in this county July 18, 1847. He is a member of the family born to the marriage of W. Anderson Holman and Edna Ann Mason. The father's birth was September 23, 1822, in Robertson County, where he lived the life of a farmer, and died in January, 1862. The mother was a native of Robertson County also, and was born November 23, 1822. She is yet among those numbered with the living, and is now sixty-four years old. He whose name heads this sketch received his education in the country schools. In 1867 he was married to Elizabeth Taylor, the result of this union being seven children, viz.: Anderson, Pearl, Ora, Laura, Mollie, Joe and Eva. In 1868 he bought twenty-six acres of land, and has successfully pursued the noble calling upon which the outer world depends--that of farming--until he now owns 177 acres of good land. Politically he casts his vote with the Democratic party. He is a moral and upright citizen, and a member of the [p.1159] Missionary Baptist Church. Mrs. Holman is the daughter of Jesse B. and Amanda Taylor, and was born in Robertson County in 1850.
Charles Howard was born in Robertson County, Tenn., October 18, 1811, and was the third of four children born to Joshua Howard, a native of North Carolina, born in the year 1776, and was in the war of 1812. Mr. Joshua Howard's first wife was Nancy Veach. She died in North Carolina, and he took for his second wife Nancy Bourdis, a native of Maryland. To the last union four children were born. Our subject's grandfather came from England, and lived in different parts of the United States. He was a soldier in the Revolutionary war, after which he moved to North Carolina, where he died at a very old age. Our subject was born and reared on the farm where he now lives. At the age of twenty-eight he was married to Nancy Randolph, a daughter of William Randolph. Mrs. Howard died in 1839, and our subject took for his second wife Eliza Canida, a daughter of William Canida. In 1843 he took for his third wife Miss Mary Randolph, daughter of George Randolph, and to this last union six children have been born: Lamar, Charles P., John William, George Milton, Nannie E., Louis C. Charles P. was killed in November, 1885, by the cars at Franklin, Ky. John W. died in 1864. The daughter, Nannie, is the wife of Dr. Johnson, of Adairville, Ky. Mr. Howard now owns the old homestead of his father, and by industry and perseverance has made it a good farm. He is a member of no society, has always given his undivided attention to farming, and thereby has gained a considerable part of this world's goods.
W. H. Huddleston, farmer, was born January 4, 1848, in Robertson County and is a son of William C. and Mary (Woodard) Huddleston. The father was born in 1805, in North Carolina, and was a farmer by occupation. When about ten years of age he came to Robertson County with his parents, and settled in the Ninth District. They were among the first settlers in the county. William lived in Robertson County at the time of his marriage, but soon moved to the Sixteenth District, bought 100 acres, and went to farming. He soon returned to Robertson County, where he died, November 19, 1873. The mother was born in 1818, in Robertson County, and after the death of her husband she made her home with her son, Henry, our subject. W. H. Huddleston was reared at home and received his education in the country schools. He remained with his parents as long as they lived, and was a kind and dutiful son to them, making their path downward as free from care as possible. In 1879 he married Alice Pitt, daughter of Wilson and Mary A. Pitt. Mrs. Huddleston was born November 17, 1841, in Robertson County. After marriage Mr. Huddleston settled three and one-half miles northeast of [p.1160] Springfield, where he lived until 1882, when he came to Springfield where he has since resided. Mr. Huddleston lost his wife September 10, 1885. He is a young man who bears a good reputation and is highly esteemed by all who know him. In politics he is Democratic. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church South, and his wife was a member of the Missionary Baptist Church.
Carroll Huey, the junior member of the firm of Sadler & Huey, of Springfield, was born in 1825 in Robertson County, Tenn., and is the son of Joseph and Mary (Morgan) Huey. The father was a native of North Carolina, and was born in the year 1769, and in his youthful days worked at the blacksmith's trade, but the greater part of his life was spent in agricultural pursuits. Soon after his marriage he came to Robertson County, and bought 378 acres of land in District No. 3, where he lived until his death, which occurred in 1845. The mother was born in 1773, in North Carolina, and died in 1833. Our subject secured his education in the country schools, and at twenty-one years of age purchased the old home place and commenced farming on his own account. In 1849 he wedded Caroline Walton, a native of Tennessee, born January 4, 1828. They have two children living: Thomas J. and Joseph W. Mr. Huey remained on the farm of his birth until December, 1884, when he rented his property and came to Springfield. July, 1885, he entered into partnership with W. R. Sadler, in the grocery and flour-mill business. Mr. Huey is one of Robertson County's old citizens, and during his long lease of life has always so conducted himself as to win the esteem and respect of his fellow-men. He is a Democrat and a member of the Masonic fraternity. In 1851 Mr. Huey lost his wife, and in 1881 was wedded to Susan Hawkins, a native of Tennessee, born 1845, and to this union were born two children: Annie Lee and Mary.
J. P. Hughes, a farmer of the Fifth District, was born in this county June 16, 1844, being one of twelve children of Crawford and Kittie (Wilke) Hughes. The father was a Virginian by birth. He was born in 1813, and lived the life of a farmer and blacksmith. At the time of his marriage he was living in Sumner County, Tenn., but died in Graves County, Ky., in the year 1883. The mother was born in Sumner County in 1821, and is now living in Graves County, Ky. The subject of this sketch was reared, to the year of his majority, at home, where he received a common school education. In 1865 he was married to Virginia Ann Green, daughter of Robert and Betsey Green. Mrs. Hughes was born in Robertson County in 1832. By this union they have one son, James I. In 1870 Mr. Hughes purchased his farm of 291 acres, where he follows farming. He has the respect of all who know him. He advocates [p.1161] and votes the principles of the Democratic party. He is a member of the Methodist Church.
Col. Richard H. Izor, one of the old settlers and farmers of District No. 9, was born May 8, 1816, in Robertson County, Tenn., and is the son of Darby and Elizabeth (Binkley) Izor. The father was of Irish-Scotch origin, born in Baltimore, Md., and was a blacksmith by occupation. He was left an orphan at an early age, and after the death of his parents he was bound out to his uncle, E. Hughes, until he was twenty-one. He was a soldier in the war of 1812, and participated in the battle of Horseshoe Bend. About 1830 he returned to Robertson County, where he died. The mother was of German origin, and was born in North Carolina. She died August, 1856. Our subject was reared at home and received only a limited education, owing to the newness of the country. At the age of nineteen he left the parental roof, went to Davidson County and hired out as a day laborer, and worked on the farm the following two years. In 1837 he attended school at Turnersville, working in a blacksmith shop nights and mornings to pay for his board. After leaving the school-room he continued working at the blacksmith's trade with his brother-in-law, with whom he remained one year. The following year he bought a kit of tools, went to Port Royal, Montgomery County, and established a shop on his own responsibility. In connection with his blacksmithing he established a wood-shop, and in 1843 he bought fifty acres near the village, and after that he carried on farming in connection with his other business. December 13, 1838, be married Elizabeth Felts, daughter of Joseph and Hester Felts. Mrs. Izor was born in 1818 in Robertson County, Tenn., and to her union with Mr. Izor were born three children: James, Emily and Taylor. Mr. Izor lost his wife April, 1856, and September of the same year he married Sarah F. (Manlove) Mathews, daughter of Dr. Christopher and Lucy Manlove. Mrs. Izor was born March 3, 1826, in Virginia, and by her union with Mr. Izor became the mother of one child named Richard Darby. In 1867 Mr. Izor returned to his native county, where he has ever since resided. In politics he is a Democrat and he and wife are members of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. Mr. Izor is also a member of the Masonic fraternity.
Thomas A. Izor, proprietor of a livery and feed stable, was born March 30, 1851, in Robertson County, and is the son of Jackson and Lucy (Manlove) Izor. The father was of German origin, a native of Tennessee, born in 1814, and a blacksmith by trade. At the time of his marriage he located in Springfield, and resumed work at his trade. In 1813 he bought 100 acres one mile north of Springfield, and in connection [p.1162] with his trade carried on farming. He died in 1865. The mother was born in 1819, in the State of Virginia, and died in 1875. Our subject was reared at home and received a limited education, but what knowledge of books he did acquire was in the Liberty Academy, in Springfield. After the death of his mother he continued farming on the old place until 1884, when he established a livery and feed stable in Springfield, at which business he has since been successfully engaged. He has the reputation of being an honest and trustworthy man in all his dealings. In politics he is a Democrat, casting his first vote for S. J. Tilden in 1876. He is a member of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church.
L. M. Jackson, magistrate of District No. 6, was born February 17, 1818, in Prince Edward County, Va., and is the son of Edwin B. and Jane (Penick) Jackson. The father was of English descent, and was born in 1782, in Virginia. He was a farmer by occupation, and was married January 6, 1806. He died in Louisiana in the year 1855. The mother was born in 1784, in Virginia, where she always remained. She died in 1840, in Virginia. Our subject was reared on the farm, and received his education in the country schools of Virginia. In those days "licken and larnen" were twin sisters. In 1841 he left the parental roof and came to Robertson County, Tenn., where he began life by renting property. In 1843 he bought 200 acres in District No. 8. March 6, 1844, he married Martha P. Gunn, daughter of Joseph and Nancy Gunn. Mrs. Jackson was born August 21, 1825, in Robertson County. After marriage Mr. Jackson settled on his father's farm, where he lived eight years. In 1856 he came to Adams Station, where he has since resided. In 1883 he was made depot agent of the station, which office he now holds. In politics he is a Democrat, casting his first vote for James K. Polk. In 1866 he was elected magistrate of the Sixth District. Mr. Jackson is getting along in years, but has a robust constitution, and during his long life has proved an honest citizen and a kind neighbor. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity, and he and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
James A. Jernigan was born February 22, 1814, and of the Jernigan family but little is known beyond the subject's grandfather. It is known that his great-grandfather was of English descent, and it is further known that he was a sea-faring man. William Jernigan, our subject's grandfather, was born in North Carolina, and was an old Revolutionary soldier. He came to Tennessee and settled on the old Jernigan place, and married Margaret Evans, also of North Carolina. To them were born seven sons and two daughters. Our subject's father was born in North Carolina in 1778, and there he was married. He was the father [p.1163] of fifteen children, all dying but four: Celia, J. A., S. B., and W. T. Our subject was reared on the farm, and at twenty-one years of age was married to Miss D. M. Sticklard, and to them were born five children: Albert, Andrew J., James P., E. Jane and Nancy A., all of whom are living. Our subject settled on the Wills place, where he is now living. Two of his sons were in the late war, one of whom lost his right arm, and is now a prominent citizen of Texas. Mr. Jernigan is one of the best farmers of his county, owns a well-improved farm and is a great stock raiser.
W. M. Jernigan was born in Robertson County May, 1817, and is a son of David Jernigan, a native of North Carolina, born about 1786, and a Methodist preacher. About the year 1805 our subject's father moved to Tennessee and settled two miles from Cross Plains, where he lived a few years previous to his death. Our subject was reared on the farm and lived with his parents until his marriage, which occurred in 1857. He has been very unfortunate in his marriage relations, death having claimed three of his wives, and Mr. Jernigan is now living with his fourth wife, Tavia Good, daughter of D. and Susan (Cartwright) Good. Her father is at present the oldest man in Macon County, Tenn., where she was reared. To Mr. and Mrs. Jernigan one child, Harry D., has been born. Our subject settled on the farm where he now lives, and is a peaceable and industrious man. He never has been before the grand jury, and now owns 500 acres of good land, and it can be said that he is a self-made man in every sense of the word.
T. W. Jernigan was born in Robertson County, Tenn., March 23, 1828, and is a son of William Jernigan, who was born in North Carolina, his grandfather being of the same name and also of North Carolina. The great-grandfather was born in England, and was a ship carpenter by trade. Two of his sons were in the Revolutionary war. Our subject's father was married in North Carolina; he came to Tennessee and located in Robertson County, and purchased land near where our subject now lives. He was a farmer and member of the Methodist Episcopal Church and died in 1870. Our subject resided with his parents until twenty-seven years of age. In January, 1857, he was married to Josephine Roney, daughter of William Roney. To them were born these five children: Caroline, Thomas, Mary E. (deceased), James, and one who died in infancy. Mrs. Jernigan died in 1867, and Mr. Jernigan took for his second wife Mary Swan, daughter of Joseph Swan. His daughter, Caroline, is the wife of L. Durrett; Thomas is merchandising in Cross Plains, and James is with his father, who owns 600 acres of land, and has been a successful farmer. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
[p.1164] Franklin P. Johnson, a young and enterprising farmer, was born February 4, 1853, in Robertson County, Tenn., and is the son of William and Charity (Morris) Johnson. The father was born in 1803 in Robertson County, Tenn., and was of German-English extraction. He was a cabinet-maker by trade and in connection with this did farming. He was living in his native county at the time of his marriage, and subsequently located on 300 acres of the old home place, which was inherited from his father's estate. He was married the second time to Nancy (Street) Hollis. He died December 21, 1881, but his second wife still survives him. The mother was born in 1806 in Robertson County, Tenn., and died in 1860. The subject of our sketch was reared without a mother's advice and counsel, she having died when he was but seven years old. After her death he was taken by his brother-in-law, George Garrett, with whom he lived until he was twenty-one years of age, receiving his education in the Liberty Academy in Springfield. February 5, 1874, he married Mollie Binkley, daughter of James M. and Lucy (Hall) Binkley. Mrs. Johnson was born April 12, 1856, in Davidson County, Tenn. By her union with Mr. Johnson she became the mother of six children: Laura H., Binkley, Lucy, Annie L., Pauline and Frank. In 1869 Mr. Johnson hired himself out as an apprentice to learn the art of distilling whisky. In 1871 he assumed charge of the distillery, and was employed by G. H. Garrett, for whom he worked fifteen years. In 1883 he bought 100 acres one-half mile south of Springfield, where he settled and now resides. During the past few years he has devoted the most of his time to agricultural pursuits. Mr. Johnson is a young man of push and energy, which are essential to success. In politics he is a Democrat, and a member of the Masonic fraternity. He and wife are worthy members of the Methodist Episcopal Church South.
D. T. Johnston, one of the oldest citizens and farmers of District No. 6, was born September 25, 1823, in Robertson County, Tenn., and is the son of John and Martha (Johnston) Johnston. The father was of Scotch-Irish descent, born October 5, 1783, in Caswell County, N. C. He was a farmer by occupation and the son of James Johnston, our subject's grandfather, who came to Tennessee in 1800, and for the following two years was obliged to live in a fort near Port Royal in order to protect himself and family from the treacherous Indians. He died in 1850 at the ripe old age of ninety-one. John Johnston was married in October, 1810, and came to Robertson County, where he erected a house on a portion of the old home place near Adam's Station, where our subject now resides. He died in 1874, and was also ninety-one years of age. The mother was of Scotch descent, and was born September 22, 1793, in [p.1165] Robertson County, and died May 23, 1830, in the bloom of womanhood. Our subject received his education in the country schools, and made his home with his parents until he was twenty-seven years old. March 17, 1853, he married Elizabeth C. Long, daughter of Samuel and Sallie (Frey) Long. Mrs. Johnston was born December 19, 1831, in Robertson County, Tenn. They have five children living: Samuel M., John H., Sallie F., Mary E. and Martin L. Mr. Johnston is highly respected as an honest citizen and an upright man. The Johnston family have been represented in Robertson County since the first settlement was made, and nothing disparaging was ever brought up against them. Mr. Johnston was constable of District No. 6 for thirty years, and he and wife are worthy members of the Methodist Episcopal Church South.
W. B. Jones, farmer and proprietor of a saw-mill, was born February 24, 1833, in Robertson County, Tenn., and is a son of Robert and Eveline (Holman) Jones. The father was born about 1796 in North Carolina, and was of English descent. He was a teacher by profession, and in connection with this engaged in agricultural pursuits, He lived in West Tennessee upward of seventeen years. He died in 1858. The mother was of English origin, born in Robertson County, Tenn., and died in West Tennessee about 1835. Our subject was reared without a mother's love or training, she having died when he was a mere child. After the death of his mother he was taken by P. Holman, his uncle, with whom he lived until seventeen years old, when he was compelled to fight the battle of life alone. He received a fair education in the country schools and at Liberty Academy in Springfield. After leaving his uncle he hired out as a day laborer, receiving 25 cents per day for his first work. He continued as day laborer for several years. February 11, 1855, he married Huldah A. Binkley, a native of Robertson County, Tenn., born January 12, 1835, and to this union were born these children: Martha Eveline, wife of R. H. Davis; Edwin A., James W., Wilson B., Robert L., Charles H. and Claud. Soon after marriage he commenced farming on his own responsibility, and in connection commenced working at the cooper trade, which he continued until 1864. In 1866 he commenced saw-milling, and in 1879 established a saw-mill in Springfield, where he has since continued the same business. In 1869 he bought seventy acres on which he erected a frame dwelling, and in 1879 it caught fire and was consumed together with a portion of its contents. The following year he built a No. 1 frame dwelling-house, and has added other improvements which give it a beautiful appearance. Mr. Jones commenced life as a poor boy, but by industry and persverance now owns 200 acres of land. He has been a life-long Democrat, and a member of [p.1166] the Masonic fraternity and I. O. O. F. He and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
Capt. James L. Jones (deceased) was born in Robertson County, Tenn., about three miles west of where his widow now lives. He was born March 2, 1818, and one of three sons of Antony Jones. His mother's maiden name was Long. Our subject was reared on a farm in Robertson County and in 1848 was married to Miss Louisa A. Young, daughter of Abram and Margaret (Cavet) Young, and to their marriage seven children were born--five sons and two daughters: Dudley, Mary, David, James, Lizzie, Landson and Lee. Capt. Jones served in the late war as captain in Company K, Thirtieth Tennessee, and was killed at the battle of Chickamauga while in command of his regiment. He was a member of the Cherry Mound Lodge of Masons and was a very industrious and energetic man. He owned 300 acres of land where his widow now lives, and was justice of the peace previous to the breaking out of the war.
M. L. Killebrew, one of the enterprising farmers of the Seventeenth District, was born in Montgomery County February 12, 1834. He is one of five children, the result of the marriage of Bryan W. and Elizabeth Killebrew, natives by birth of Montgomery County. The father was born in April, 1805, and was a farmer until his death which occurred September 20, 1850. He was of Scotch descent. The mother was of English descent. She was born in 1811 and died in Stewart County, 1836. The subject of this sketch was reared at home with his parents to the age of twenty-one, receiving his education in the schools of the county, attending also J. D. Tyler's academy, in Montgomery County. In 1855 he was married to Virginia E., daughter of William and Mary E. La Prade. Mrs. Killebrew was born in Robertson County, February 23, 1835. The fruits of her union to Mr. Killebrew have been three children, two of whom are living; one, Jeseph B., died in Denzen, Tex., October 10, 1885. Those now living are William L. and Webster G. Mr. Killebrew bought 380 acres of land in Robertson County, where he is now living the life of a farmer. In politics he is a Democrat. He is a worthy citizen and a member of the Baptist Church.
Judge U. Kimbrough was born in Todd County Ky., April 2, 1848, being one of thirteen children of M. Gart. L. and Mildred (Terry) Kimbrough. The father was of Scotch descent and was born in the same county in which our subject was born. By occupation he was a successful farmer. He lived in his native county many years and then came to Robertson County, Tenn., where his friends were called to mourn his death March 22, 1872. The mother was also born in Todd County, [p.1167] Ky., and died in Montgomery County, Tenn. She died April 1, 1879. Until twenty-one years of age our subject remained with his parents, having received a common school education and also attended Browder Institute in Logan County, Ky. In 1871 he was married to Emma Allen, who was born to the union of David and Frances Allen, in Nashville, October, 1849. Mr. Kimbrough's married life has been blessed in the birth of three children, viz.: Frank, Harry and Claude. In 1872 Mr. Kimbrough began farming in his native county on 100 acres of land, which he bought. He continued there five years and in 1877 he came to Robertson County and bought 233 acres where he now resides and continues farming. Politically he is a Democrat. He has been successful in his occupation and is a good citizen.
Henry H. Kirk, builder and contractor, was born March 30, 1832, in Springfield, Tenn., and is the only living child of John H. and Elizabeth (Morris) Kirk. The father was of Scotch descent, a native of Pennsylvania, and was born May 4, 1797. He was a brick-mason by trade and at the time of his marriage, which occurred in June, 1832, he was an inhabitant of Robertson County. He erected numerous brick business blocks and family residences in Springfield. He died September, 1855. The mother was born June 4, 1797, in North Carolina, and died February, 1857, in Tennessee. Our subject received his education in the Liberty Academy at Springfield and commenced life as a hod carrier, working on the Presbyterian Church for 6 & 1/4 cents per day. He soon became a brick-mason like his father, also contractor and builder. In 1849 Messrs. Kirk & McNally bought the Springfield Spy and he commenced his career as an editor. He changed the name of the paper to that of Backwoodsman, and later the name was again changed to the Intelligencer. In 1853 be sold his interest in the paper and returned to his trade. In June, 1851, he married Virginia Bowers, a native of Tennessee, born April 7, 1835, and to them were born six children: Lizzie (wife of James Dean), May (wife of Turner Lawrence), Carrie, Edward, Victor and Estelle. In 1867 Mr. Kirk went in partnership with G. H. Garret & Co. in the distillery business, which he continued for seven years but at last resumed his old trade once more. Mr. Kirk has been a business man in Springfield for the past thirty-five years. He is a skillful workman and a competent builder and contractor. He is a Democrat in politics, a member of the Masonic fraternity and he and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church South.
Nathaniel T. Langford, cabinet-maker and undertaker, of Springfield, was born in 1841 in Robertson County and is the son of Nathaniel and Eliza (Walden) Langford. The father was born in 1800 in North Carolina [p.1168] and was a carpenter by trade. At the time of his marriage, which occurred in 1823, he was living at Jonesboro, Tenn., and in 1830 he came to Robertson County where he died October, 1857. The mother was of Scotch origin, and was born in Tennesse about 1807 and died March, 1856. Our subject received his education in the Liberty Academy in Springfield. When the war broke out Nathaniel Langford enlisted in Company C, Fourteenth Regiment Tennessee Infantry. He participated in the bloody battles of Chancellorville, second Manassas, Cedar Run and Gettysburg. In the last named battle he was captured and made prisoner of war, and was taken to Fort Delaware and retained twenty months, when he returned home May, 1865. June, 1867, he married Sophia Boyle, and by this union has five children: Robert H., Fannie, Lizzie, Maud and Jennie. In 1867 he resumed work at his trade, which he is engaged in at the present time. Mr. Langford has been in business the past thirty years, and during all that time has proved to be an honest and valuable citizen. In politics he is a Democrat, and he and wife are members of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church.
Benjamin E. Linebaugh, engineer of a local steam-engine, of Springfield, was born June 21, 1830, in Russellville, Logan Co., Ky., and is a son of Thomas and Ann (Owens) Linebaugh. The father was born in Greencastle, Penn., in 1787, and was of German descent. He was a potter by occupation. In 1839 he came to Robertson County, and located in the Seventeenth District, where he lived till his life was brought to an abrupt termination by being thrown from a horse. The mother was born June, 1800, in Kentucky, and died July 21, 1871. Our subject was reared on the farm, and received his education in the country schools. After he became twelve years old he was thrust out upon the world to make a living as best he could. He at once commenced as an apprentice learning the saddler's trade, working six months in Russellville, Ky., and three years in Clarksville, Tenn. After learning the trade he worked in different cities in eleven Southern States. When the war broke out he enlisted in Company F, Eleventh Regiment Tennessee Infantry. He took an active part in the battles of Rock Castle, Barbersville, Cumberland Gap, Richmond (Ky.), Perryville, Chickamauga and numerous minor engagements. After the war he located in Springfield and resumed work at his trade on his own responsibility. January 11, 1866, he married Louisa B. Miles, daughter of Andrew and Kittie Miles. Mrs. Linebaugh was born March 4, 1844, in Robertson County, Tenn. Mr. Linebaugh carried on business in Springfield until 1873, when owing to an injury to one of his hands he abandoned the saddler's business and hired out to the St. Louis & Southeastern Railroad, now the Louisville & [p.1169] Nashville Railroad Company, to run the engine to a water-tank one and a half miles west of Springfield. Mr. Linebaugh has proved himself to be an honest and trustworthy citizen. In politics he is a Democrat, and he is also a member of the Masonic fraternity, and he and wife are members of the Cumberland Presbyterian and the Methodist Episcopal Churches, respectively.
W. A. Link is a native of Robertson County, Tenn., where he was born May 23, 1850, only son of John Link, who was born in the same county as his son in 1827. The grandfather was David L. Link, who was a native of the "Old Dominion," came to Tennessee at an early period and located near Cross Plains, where he followed the occupation of farming. He died in Sumner County in 1864 or 1865. John Link secured a good education and taught school, continuing that occupation until his death, which occurred about 1851. The mother of our subject was Matilda Randolph, daughter of George Randolph. Our subject secured a good education and was reared on a farm. At the age of twenty he engaged in the drug business, and has since been connected with W. R. Yates in the general merchandise business. He was married in October, 1876, to Lizzie Payne, daughter of Charles Payne. To them were born two children: Charles and Joseph. Mr. Link has been a member of the I. O. O. F. since 1876, and is now one of the leading business men of his town, being interested in the dry goods, grocery and drug stores.
Jacob Link is a native of Virginia, born June 15, 1802. His father, William Link, was born in the same State, and his grandfather, John Link, came from Germany during Revolutionary times to help the British fight the Americans. He was captured at Brandywine, and after peace was declared he settled in Virginia. The father was born in 1780 and died in 1857. He was a wagon-maker. He came to Tennessee in 1828, and in 1832 our subject came. He wedded Jane Weddle in 1826, and they became the parents of eight children: William, Susannah, Martha, Martin, John F., Christian, James M. and Jacob W. The two daughters are dead. Mr. Link on coming to this place purchased the farm where he now lives. He owns 225 acres of land, and in connection with farming has carried on wagon-making. His wife, who was an excellent woman and a true Christian, died March 9, 1884, mourned by all who knew her. Mr. Link is now the oldest man in his district, and is much respected and esteemed. He did not take part in the late war, but was in sympathy with the Union. His sons, James M. and Jacob, were in the war.
Joseph S. Lipscomb was born December 28, 1845, and is one of the [p.1170] three children of Andrew J. and Martha Lipscomb, who were born in Tennessee and North Carolina in 1816 and 1827, respectively. After reaching manhood the father purchased a farm of 250 acres, and in 1845 married Martha Lankford, by whom he had three children: Joseph S., Sarah B. and Mary. Sarah married John Sawyer and moved to Kansas, where she died, leaving three children. The other daughter married and resides in the county. The mother died in 1857 and the father in 1866. Joseph S. resided on the home farm until after his father's death, when he tilled the farm until 1878. December 18, 1867, Mr. Lipscomb married Nancy Martin, who was born in April, 1840, and was a daughter of George W. and Rebecca (McVey) Martin. The mother was a daughter of Hugh McVey, at one time governor of Alabama. In 1878 Mr. Lipscomb sold his interest in his father's farm and moved to Kansas, where he remained one year, and then returned and traded the farm he owned in Kansas for the one he now possesses, containing 172 acres. To him and wife were born the following children: George C., Jessie W., Joseph R., Hugh T., Martin C., Authur J. and Matthew W., and two are deceased. Both husband and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
J. H. Long, Sr., farmer and tobacco, dealer of Cedar Hill, Tenn., is a son of John and Margaret (Johnson) Long, and grandson of James and Elizabeth (Black) Long. John Long was born in Virginia in 1791. He left the home farm in 1798 and came to Robertson County, Tenn., and bought 150 acres of land. Our subject was born April 9, 1828, and was one of six children. He attended the country schools and worked on the farm until twenty-one years of age. A year later he purchased a farm of 218 acres, and October 14, 1851, he wedded Sarah Farmer, and they became the parents of seven children, five now living: Sarah M., Mary E., James H., Nannie M. and Annie. In 1854 Mr. Long was elected constable and held this position two years. He was also revenue collector of Robertson County from 1856 to 1857. During the war he enlisted in the Eleventh Tennessee, Company F, November 20, 1862, and served until the close of the war. He was at Chickamauga, Atlanta, Jonesboro and other battles of lesser note. Since his return home he has farmed, and now owns 670 acres of land. He and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church South, and he belongs to the F. & A. M., and is a Democrat politically.
J. R. Long, retired farmer, of Springfield, was born February 16, 1830, in Robertson County, Tenn., and is the son of John and Margaret (Johnson) Long. The father was of Irish descent and was born March 22, 1791, in the State of Kentucky, and a farmer by occupation. He [p.1171] was living in Robertson County at the time of his marriage, which occurred in 1824. His death occurred November, 28, 1868, and his wife's in 1835. The subject of our sketch was reared without a mother's love or training, she having died when John was but five years old. He received his education in the country schools, but the newness of the country and the shortness of the school terms rendered his education rather limited. After he became his own man he commenced farming, and in 1854 he bought 214 acres of good land. October 14, 1868, he wedded Lucinda A. Batts, a native of Tennessee, born May 18, 1834. To them were born these children: Jeremiah W., Eureka B., Rufus F., Addie Lee and James H. After moving around in different districts he at last, in the fall of 1885, came to Springfield, where he now lives. Mr. Long has been one of Robertson County's best farmers. About 1882 he owned upward of 1,200 acres of land, and has now in his employ about twelve hands. Mr. Long is a good citizen, a Democrat, and he and wife are leading members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
Capt. T. E. Mallory, auctioneer of Adams Station, was born August 30, 1833, in Robertson County, and is the son of Benjamin and Mary E. (Williams) Mallory. The father was of Irish origin, and was born October 10, 1789, in the State of North Carolina, and was a farmer by occupation. Benjamin Mallory lived in Montgomery County at the time of his marriage, which occurred December 12, 1826. Soon afterward he bought property in Robertson County, and there passed the remainder of his days. He was a soldier in the war of 1812. He died August 20, 1851. The mother was of Welsh descent, and was born May 4, 1806, in Montgomery County. She died April 14, 1863. Our subject received his education in the country schools, and after becoming of age he remained on the old home place looking after his mother's interest until the late unpleasantness between the North and the South. In the fall of 1861 he enlisted in Company E, Fiftieth Tennessee Infantry, at Fort Donelson, where he was appointed adjutant of the regiment, and at the surrender of the fort he was made a prisoner of war. After being retained six months he was exchanged. The company was re-organized and Mr. Mallory was elected captain, which position he held as long as he was in the service. He was a brave and gallant officer, and was in the battles of Vicksburg, Raymond and Jackson. While on their way to Chickamauga the train was wrecked and Capt. Mallory was severely wounded and placed on the retired list. November 27, 1865, he wedded Lecie A. Polk, daughter of James I. and Elizabeth Polk, her father being first cousin to ex-President Polk. Mrs. Mallory was born September 25, 1842, in Robertson County, and to her union with Mr. Mallory [p.1172] were born two children, named Benjamin I. and Thomas L. After marriage Mr. Mallory resumed farming on the old place. In 1867 he abandoned agricultural pursuits and went to Adams Station and commenced his career as a merchant. He was also depot agent. In 1879 he entered his present occupation. In politics he is a stanch Democrat. He is a Mason and his wife is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church South.
R. T. Mathews, farmer and brick-maker of Springfield, was born March 19, 1832, in Robertson County, Tenn., and is the son of Richard and Nancy (Powell) Mathews. The father was born in Robertson County, Tenn., in 1800 and was of Irish origin. He followed agricultural pursuits for a livelihood. His father was Sampson Mathews who was a native of Virginia. He left his native State about 1796 and came to this county where he was living when his life ended. Richard lived in his native county at the time of his marriage, which occured in 1821. In 1840 he bought 300 acres near Springfield where he settled and passed the residue of his days. He died in 1846. The mother was of Scotch origin, was born in 1804 in North Carolina and died in 1858. Our subject was reared on the farm and received his education in the country schools. He was wedded to Tennie White October 2, 1853, and to this union were born these children: Jennie, Lizzie, Jesse W., Eva, Fannie, Thomas, John, Charles, Cephas T., Lottie and Bessie. The mother was born November 29, 1835, and is the daughter of Jesse B. and Martha G. White. Soon after our subject's marriage he went to Missouri where he taught school and from there went to Illinois where he still continued that profession until 1858 when he returned to his birthplace and continued as tutor until 1861, when he abondoned teaching altogether and began tilling the soil. In 1879 he bought a house and lot near Springfield where he located and now resides. In 1866 Mr. Mathews commenced making brick in connection with his farming, and in 1879 gave up farming and devoted his entire time and attention to the manufacture of brick. During the past few years Mr. H. H. Kirk and Mr. Mathews have been in partnership. They have a ready sale for their bricks, which are of the best quality. Mr. Mathews is a strong Democrat and he and wife are members of the Missionary Baptist Church.
Dr. J. H. Matthews is a son of Thomas B. and Fannie (Powell) Matthews and was born September 10, 1830, and resided with his parents until of age. He worked on the farm and attended the district schools. He also attended the Springfield Academy and after leaving this commenced the study of medicine under the direction of his cousin, Dr. J. C. Matthews, and remained with him about eighteen months. He then entered [p.1173] the Vanderbilt College at Nashville and attended the medical department of that institution in 1853-54 and since that has been actively engaged in the practice of his profession and ranks among the first practitioners of the county. The Doctor is a Democrat and cast his first presidential vote for Franklin Pierce. He has been twice married, the first time to Sophronia Crowe, to whom were born two children: Lee R. and Jane. The second marriage was to Mary E. Hallums November 4, 1866. To them were born five children: John S., Lucy B., James T., Fannie V. and Lovick H.
G. W. Menees, M. D., a successful practitioner, was born February 22, 1834, in Robertson County, Tenn., and is the youngest son of a family of seven children born to Benjamin W. and Elizabeth (Harrison) Menees. The father was of Irish descent, born in Tennessee in the year 1796, and was a farmer by occupation. The grandfather of our subject, James Menees, was a native of Virginia, and came to Robertson County in 1796, and was among the early settlers. He died about 1848. Benjamin W. was married in 1822 and at this time was living in Robertson County and was considered a successful farmer. He died in 1864. The mother was of Scotch-Irish descent, a native of Tennessee, born in 1800 and died in 1863. Our subject was reared at home and received a literary education in the Liberty Academy in Springfield. At the age of nineteen he commenced the study of medicine, which he continued for about three years. He then entered the medical department of the University of Nashville, from which he graduated as an M. D. in 1855. He then came to Springfield and commenced practicing and has continued here ever since. During the late war he was appointed as commissary of the First Regiment Tennessee Volunteers, in which position he remained for two years, after which time he was appointed commissary under Maj. Moore, of the Army of Tennessee, in which capacity he remained until the close of the war. In 1881 Dr. Menees formed a partnership with A. M. Pike in the drug business. In the following year Mr. Pike sold his interest to J. E. Patton, and since that time the firm has been known as Menees & Patton. Dr. Menees has practiced his profession in Springfield for the past thirty-one years, being the next oldest physician and surgeon in the city. The Doctor is a member of the Masonic fraternity, a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church and a Knight Templar. In politics he has been a life-long Democrat.
L. W. Merritt was born February 7, 1818, and is one of ten children born to James and Lucy (Knight) Merritt. The father came from North Carolina when very young and settled in Robertson County near Cross Plains, where he died. The subject was reared on the farm, and at the [p.1174] age of twenty-two was married to Mary Ann Starks, after which he lived for one year near Springfield, then moved North, but at last settled near where he now lives. To Mr. and Mrs. Merritt were born the following children: John F., Josephine, Martha, Maud, Marion and Beauregard. The subject's wife died May 20, 1885. His son, J. F., during the late war, was in Company K, Thirtieth Tennessee, C. S. A. Mr. Merritt is an active, energetic farmer, and has followed that occupation for years. He is a consistent Christian and belongs to the Presbyterian Church.
W. S. Miller, dry goods merchant, of Adams Station, was born July 2, 1849, in Keysburgh, Logan Co., Ky., and is the only child of Dr. J. S. and Elizabeth B. (Porter) Miller. The father was of Scotch-Irish descent and was born January 16, 1821, in Virginia. When eighteen years of age he graduated in the literary department of William and Mary's College. He was a teacher also and taught a few terms. About 1839 he entered the Medical Institute at Lexington, Ky., whence he graduated as an M. D. in the year 1841. His marriage occurred in 1846. In 1869 he moved to Bowling Green, where he passed the remainder of his days. He died August 6, 1880. The mother was of Irish-German descent. She was born December 21, 1829, in Robertson County, Tenn., and was the daughter of Capt. William B. Porter, who was a soldier in the war of 1812. Our subject's mother died while on a visit to her husband's people in Virginia, January 6, 1850. W. S. Miller was reared without a mother's watchful care, she having died while he was but six months old. In 1866 he entered Bethel College, at Russellville, Ky., in which institute he remained until January, 1869. The same year he entered the teacher's profession and continued as instructor for five sessions, in which he met with very fair success. December 26, 1872, he married Mary E. Butler, a native of Kentucky, born January 26, 1852, and to this union were born two children: Samuel T. and Wade H. In 1875 Mr. Miller sold his farm and moved to Adams Station where he now lives. August, 1875, he established a dry goods, drug and grocery store in Adams Station and carried on the business in connection with his farm. In 1882 his store-rooms were burned, and in September, 1885, he bought the dry goods stock of Alsbrook & Murphy and since that date Mr. Miller has conducted the business, He is a young man of marked business qualities and a Democrat in politics. He and wife are worthy members of the Missionary Baptist Church.
Charles F. Miller is a native of Robertson County, Tenn., born January 12, 1823, son of John and Elizabeth (Cobb) Miller. The father was born in North Carolina in 1796 and came to Tennessee with his father in 1811. He was in the war of 1812, and was in the battle of New [p.1175] Orleans. He was a farmer and was married in 1820. In 1865 the mother died in Illinois where the family had moved in 1863. The father lived four years longer. In 1842 our subject was married to Wealthy Jane Ventress and moved to the farm which they now occupy. They own 137 acres of good farming land. They became the parents of twelve children, ten of whom are now living: James M., living in Nebraska; John B., living in Illinois; Rufus L., living in Nebraska; William B., Luke A., residents of Nebraska; Jephtha L., residing in Robertson County, Tenn., with his father; Martha E. (Dowlen); Jennie E. and Ookolomo, residents of Robertson County. Mr. Miller is a Republican, although his first vote was cast for Henry Clay. In 1860 he voted for Douglas and subsequently he became a Republican. To our subject's father and mother were born eleven children, nine of whom are still living.
Dr. G. B. Moody, druggist, whose residence is four and a half miles south of Adams Station, was born August 25, 1841, in Montgomery County, Tenn., and received his education in Montgomery and Cheatham Counties. In 1861 he enlisted with the boys in gray in Company H, Fourteenth Regiment of Tennessee Infantry. He participated in the battles of Fredericksburg, Seven Pines, Cedar Run, second Manassas, Antietam, Wilderness, Chancellorsville and others. While fighting at Petersburg he was captured and made prisoner of war. He was retained for three weeks and then allowed to return home. In the fall of 1865 he commenced working in his father's mill and remained until the spring of 1867. In 1868 he entered the teacher's profession and taught for some time, meeting with good success. In 1870 he began the study of dentistry and kept it up for nine months after which he entered upon the practice. August 19, 1873, he married Mrs. M. S. Northington, daughter of Jordan and Mary A. Neblett. Mrs. Moody was born November, 1837, in Montgomery County and to her union with Dr. Moody became the mother of two children: Caesar and Charles W. Mrs. Moody had one child, Eugenia, by her first husband. In 1874 Dr. Moody located where he now resides and since 1883 has given his entire attention to his profession and is having a lucrative practice. In politics he is a Democrat. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity and he and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church South. Our subject was the son of Samuel R. and Louisa D. (Dillard) Moody. The father was born in 1806 in Montgomery County and was a miller by trade and in connection did farming. His parents were natives of Virginia. Samuel lived in Montgomery County at the time of his marriage and afterward settled in District No. 1, where he resided twenty-nine years, cultivating the soil. In 1859 he moved to Robertson County and located in the Sixth District, [p.1176] where our subject now lives. He built a grist-mill on Sulphur Fork and was proprietor of the same until 1879, when he sold out and has since been making his home with his son Samuel R., Jr. The mother was born in 1812, in Montgomery County, Tenn. She died August 9, 1879.
Dr. Hiram M. Moore was born in Sumner County, Tenn., January 22, 1822, son of Risdon Dent and Asenyth (Mitchell) Moore. Early in the eighteenth century two brothers, Smith and Risdon Moore, came from Wales to the United States and located for a short time in Maryland, and permanently in North Carolina. Our subject's grandfather, Smith Moore, who came from Wales, was a Revolutionary soldier under Lee, and married a Miss Dent, a native probably of Maryland. He died in North Carolina. Risden Dent Moore was married in North Carolina January 14, 1811, his wife being a daughter of Leon Mitchell, of that State. The father came with two of his brothers to Tennessee in 1812 or 1813, and lived in Rutherford and Sumner Counties, where he farmed, traded and sold goods a number of years. His death occurred at Richland Station. His son, Hiram M., resided with his parents until fifteen years of age. He commenced reading medicine under Dr. John C. McCreary, of Mitchellville, continuing four years. He then attended lectures at the old university of Nashville, and then went to Philadelphia where he attended college, but finally returned to Nashville where he graduated in 1858. He sold goods in Kentucky from 1843 to 1847, when he again gave his attention to his profession, remaining in Mitchellville until 1869, when he went to Gallatin and practiced until 1874, and then went to Cross Plains. He has met with good success in his profession, and is doing well financially. In 1845 he married Miss Rebecca Ellis, daughter of John and Ann Ellis, of Todd County, Ky. They became the parents of three children, two now living: Dr. R. C. Moore, of Orlinda, and Belle. He and wife are members of the Christian Church.
Dr. R. E. Moore, son of H. M. Moore, was born in Sumner County, Tenn., March 17, 1848. He received a good education, and attended Bethel College, in Kentucky, and a school in Franklin. He had been a student of medicine under his father, and at the age of seventeen attended lectures at the University of Nashville. He attended the full course and graduated in 1867. He afterward practiced in Nashville with Dr. Conwell for one year, and then established himself in the drug business in the same place, continuing three or four years, when he moved his goods to Gallatin, Tenn., and remained one year. He then gave his attention to his practice, and in 1877 sold his drug store to his father and moved to Cross Plains, where he practiced and sold drugs. In 1879 he sold out and went to Texas and remained in Austin some time, when he returned, [p.1177] but remained in Cross Plains only a short time. He has since resided in Orlinda. In 1867 he was married to Mattie Cabler, daughter of Capt. C. Cabler, of Nashville, a steam-boat captain. The Doctor and his wife have had two children; one died in infancy, and the other is Ammon C. Dr. Moore's wife died October 29, 1877, and he, in 1881, married Miss Charlie Payne, daughter of Charles Payne, a descendant of the old Payne family, of Robertson County, but born in Mexico and of half Mexican blood. They have one son, Robbie. The Doctor is an excellent physician, and belongs to the I. O. O. F.
Dr. J. E. Moore, a principal physician of Robertson County, was born November 24, 1831, in Sumner County, Tenn, and received a fair education at the common schools. At the age of seventeen he left his home and went to Kentucky with his brother H. M., and engaged in merchandizing. Here he remained three years, and in May, 1853, was married to Miss Rebecca M. Lutzy, of Limestone County, Ala., and of German extraction. Dr. Moore remained but a short time in Kentucky after his marriage, but removed to Tennessee and began the study of medicine with his brother, W. P. Moore, at Richland Station. He read medicine here for twelve months, and then attended lectures at the university at Nashville; where he remained and took one course. He began the practice of his profession in 1855, at South Union, Ky., where he remained one year. From there he went to Allen County, Ky., and practiced there one year also. In 1857-58 he attended college, where he graduated, after which he returned to Allen County, Ky., and remained here four years, or until the breaking out of the war. He then went to Richland Station, Sumner Co., Tenn., where he remained until the fall of 1862, and then moved to Nashville. After the close of the war, in 1868, he moved to Black Jack, Robertson County, where he now resides and practices his profession, and is one of the leading physicians of his vicinity. Their wedded life has been blessed by seven children: Risdon D., B. L., Martha L., Ada M., M. E. and two who died. Dr. Moore is at present Master of the Masonic lodge, and a member of the Missionary Baptist Church. His wife is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
T. E. Morris, farmer, of Robertson County, Tenn., is a son of Jesse and Mary (Nichols) Morris and was born October 9, 1830. The father was born in North Carolina in 1799 and came to Tennessee with his parents when a small boy. Here he lived until his death which occurred October 27, 1845. The mother died December 31, 1856. They became the parents of five children, these three living: Thomas E., Benjamin and Gideon. After the death of his father our subject took the burden of the farm work on his own shoulders. He secured a common education [p.1178] in the district schools but spent the most of his early days in tilling the farm. May 18, 1854, he was married to Elizabeth Mathews, and to them three children, Mary F., Gideon L., and one deceased, were born. Mr. Morris purchased a farm August 10, 1854, where he yet resides. The original farm consisted of 110 acres but he has added to it until he now owns 185 acres of good land. Mr. Morris is a blacksmith and works at that trade in connection with his farming. His wife belongs to the Baptist Church and he is a member of the F. & A. M., and is politically a Democrat and cast his first vote for Franklin Pierce.
J. E. Morrow, farmer and tobacco dealer, was born January 4, 1830, in Tennessee, and is one of five children born to the marriage of James H. Morrow and Lovice Parker born in South Carolina and North Carolina in 1805 and 1799, and died in 1843 and 1859, respectively. The father's father was born in Ireland and came to the United States in his youth and soon immigrated to Tennessee. James H. was married in 1824 and owned 235 acres of land. Our subject was educated in the common schools. His school days were limited, owing to the early death of his father, and he aided and assisted his mother until twenty years of age. February 4, 1852, he was united in marriage to Ann Rosson, daughter of Sampson and Merinda Rosson. She was born in 1835 and became the mother of nine children: Emmet C., Inez, Edward H., Sampson N., Maggie, James, John, Lee and Lena. Mr. Morrow has been a resident of Robertson County since his marriage. He purchased the farm of 175 acres where he now resides. He is an excellent business man and deals quite extensively in tobacco and has met with good success, especially for the last three years. He is a Democrat and he and wife are church members.
J. C. Murphey, a prominent merchant of Adams Station, was born April 30, 1851, in Robertson County, Tenn., and is a son of Robert and Rebecca (Winters) Murphey. The father was of Irish origin and was born in Robertson County, Tenn., in 1824. He was a tiller of the soil, and a son of Robert Murphey (our subject's grandfather) who was a native of Virginia and came to Robertson County at a very early date, where he died in 1823. The father of our subject was married twice, his second wife being Elizabeth Head, who yet survives him. He died April 2, 1881. The mother was born in 1824 and died in 1859. Our subject was reared without a mother's love or training, she having died when he was only nine years of age. He remained with his parents until he was twenty-one years of age, devoting his entire time to work, not attending school of any kind until he reached his majority. After becoming his own man he saw and realized the need of an education and accordingly [p.1179] laid his plans for getting a fair education at least. In 1872 he and his brother W. C., established a general merchandise store in Adams Station. At the expiration of one year they sold out and our subject entered school. At the end of the school year his surplus cash gave out and he returned to work for a year, after which he again resumed his studies. In 1876 he re-entered the mercantile business in Adams Station, this time on his own responsibility, and in which business he has since been engaged. December 20, 1876, he wedded Mettie Fuqua, a daughter of Samuel and Eliza Fuqua. Mrs. Murphey was born July 25, 1856, in Robertson County, and to her union with Mr. Murphey one child was born, Myrtle. Mr. Murphey is highly esteemed as an honest and useful citizen. In politics he is a Democrat, and he and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
F. W. Murphy, one of the energetic farmers of Robertson County, Tenn., was born June 2, 1826, one of eight children born to Benjamin and Lavina (Fiser) Murphy. The father was of Irish descent and was born in Virginia in 1804 and followed the occupation of farming during his life. He resided in Tennessee at the time of his marriage and died June 18, 1870. The mother was of German descent, born in Tennessee in 1803, and died in January, 1876. Our subject resided at home until twenty-six years of age and was educated in the common schools of the county. In 1854 he was united in marriage to Louisa, daughter of Dudley and Lucretia Adams, who were the parents of eight children. The mother was born in 1834 and died in 1882. Mr. Murphy began farming for himself in 1853, and in 1856 purchased 100 acres of land, and in 1883 purchased 130 acres more. He is an excellent farmer and in politics is a Democrat.
Henry Plummer Murrah was born in North Carolina January 26, 1824, and is one of eight children born to Ambrose and Barbara (Fleming) Murrah. The father was also a native of North Carolina, and in 1828 came to Robertson County, Tenn., and settled on a farm. In 1830 he was killed by a falling log. Mrs. Murrah's children then worked the home farm for her. Until his thirtieth year Mr. Murrah lived with his mother. He then purchased the farm of 160 acres on which he now resides. In 1854 he married Mary Ann Felts, one of ten children of Nathaniel and Cinderella (Reeves) Felts, who are prominent citizens of the county and originally came from North Carolina. To Mr. and Mrs. Murrah six children were born: James M. (living in Cheatham County), Nathaniel M., Elizabeth, Charles M., Henry P., Jr., and Martha. Mr. Murrah is one of the representative farmers of the county, and his wife is a member of the Missionary Baptist Church. He is a Democrat, although not a great partisan.
[p.1180] W. H. Ogwin is a native Tennesseean and was born on the 30th of May, 1840. His father, John L. Ogwin, was born in 1811, and his grandfather was a North Carolinian, and came first to Kentucky and then to Tennessee. He died in 1864. The father taught school in his young days, but in later life became a farmer. He married Mary True. He died in 1879. Our subject was reared on a farm and made his parents' house his home until thirty-one years of age. He wedded Cornelia Randolph, whose father is William Randolph. To them were born this family: James R., Bettie E. and Daisy. After his marriage Mr. Ogwin settled on the farm where he now lives, on eighty acres of land. In 1861 he joined Company H, Thirtieth Tennessee Regiment, C. S. A., and was at Fort Donelson, where he surrendered, and was at Camp Butler nearly eight months as a prisoner. He was exchanged at Vicksburg, and was at the bombardment of Port Hudson at Jackson. He had his arm broken by a ball and was out of service two months. He rejoined his regiment but was taken sick, but soon after again rejoined. He was at Raymond, Chickamauga, where he was captured and held as a prisoner of war at Camp Douglas, Ill., until the close of the war. He is a strict temperance man and is an excellent citizen.
John and Joseph Payne were natives of Virginia, where they were married, the former to Elizabeth Litt and the latter to Elizabeth Slinker. To John Payne and wife were born twelve children who are residing in Virginia and Tennessee. Joseph Payne came to Tennessee and located in Robertson County on 600 acres of land. John Payne, on coming to Tennessee, located in Sumner County and accumulated 1,000 acres of land. Gideon Payne is a son of Joseph Payne and was born March 18, 1786. He married a Miss Gamberel, who bore two children: John and Caroline. His wife died and then he married Mrs. Strother, widow of Samuel Strother, and daughter of Thomas Kilgore, Jr. To them were born seven children: W. D., Elizabeth (Ford), Pernecia (Taylor), Thomas (deceased), Arrissa (deceased), Josephus, Arena (Armstrong). Gideon Payne was a farmer, but worked at the hatter's trade in early life. He also operated a saw-mill now owned by his son, Joseph Payne. He died in 1874. W. Decatur, our subject, was reared on his father's farm near Cross Plains, and at the age of twenty-five was married to Eliza Turner, daughter of Ceton Turner, of Virginia. They had one child, Polly, who married J. F. Villines. She died in 1878. Mrs. Payne died in 1863, and Mr. Payne took for his second wife Virginia Bailey, daughter of Samuel H. Bailey, of Virginia. Mr. Payne has always lived on the farm where he now resides, and owns 130 acres of land.
Robert Perry, resident of Greenbrier, was born August 5, 1858, in [p.1181] Davidson County, Tenn., and is one of a family of nine children born to Hunter and Sallie Perry. The father was born February 26, 1821. Robert, our subject, was reared at home, receiving his education in the country schools of his native county. July 18, 1880, he married Matie Claxton, a native of Bedford County, Tenn., born May 1, 1857, and to them was born one child, Katie. In 1882 Mr. Perry came to Greenbrier and assumed charge of the stock of Perry & Lester. They feed an average of 600 head of cattle and 800 hogs per annum. Mr. Perry is a trusty hand and a competent man for the place. He is a Democrat in politics, casting his first vote for Hancock in 1880. His wife is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
Henry Porter, farmer, and one of the old settlers of District No. 9, was born March 14, 1824, in Robertson County, Tenn., and is the son of Benjamin and Mary (Bridges) Porter. The father was a native of Virginia, born 1769, and was of English origin. He was a farmer by occupation, and when about twenty-four years old came to Davidson County, Tenn.; afterward moved two miles east of Springfield, where he located and remained until his career ended. At one time he owned upward of 3,000 acres, being one of the largest land-holders in the county. He died October 18, 1852. The mother was born in North Carolina in 1779, and died August 15, 1847. The subject of our sketch was reared on a farm and received his education in the country schools, and in the Liberty Academy at Springfield. March 9, 1845, he married Martha Jane Clark, daughter of Daniel and Catharine (Henry) Clark. Mrs. Porter was born June 20, 1823, in Henry County, Tenn., and to her union with Mr. Porter were born these children: Julia E., Mary C., Archibald B., Daniel W., Newton W., Henry J., James B. and Mat C. Julia is living in Nashville, Newton in Texas, and the remainder are at home. After marriage Mr. Porter lived with his parents for four years, at the end of which time he erected a dwelling house on a portion of the old homestead, his father giving him 300 acres. In April, 1877, his house, together with a portion of the contents, caught fire and was consumed. Mr. Porter set about at once to rebuild. By the 26th of the following month, he had built a large two-story frame dwelling, and there he has since resided. Mr. Porter is one of Robertson County's old citizens, and is highly esteemed as an honest and worthy member of society. In politics he does not incline to either party, but always votes for principle and not for party. His wife is a member of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church.
J. W. Powell, an energetic farmer of Robertson County, is a native of Tennessee, his birth occurring August 19, 1825. He is one of the two [p.1182] children whose parents were Jacob and Nancy Powell, natives of North Carolina. The father was of English descent, and was born in 1790; his whole lifetime was occupied in farming; he died in 1830, in Davidson County, Tenn., but he lived in North Carolina until after he married. The mother was born in 1805 and died in Robertson County in 1870. The gentleman whose life this sketch portrays, was reared on a farm and remained with his parents throughout his youthful years until the age of eighteen, receiving his education in the schools of the county. His marriage celebration was in 1847, uniting him to Mahala J. Taylor, who is a native of Robertson County by birth, she having been born June 28, 1828. Her parents' names were Mills and Kittie Taylor. Mr. Powell's married life has been blessed in the birth of ten children, viz.: Albert S., David H., Washington A., James W., Johnnie, Thomas, Granbury T., Mollie, Laura and Emma J. He bought 100 acres of land in 1848 and began farming on his own responsibility, and he has successfully pursued that avocation and now owns 545 acres where he resides. He is a well respected citizen of the county and a member of the Democratic party.
W. A. Powell is one of a family of ten children, whose parents are James W. and Mahala Jane (Taylor) Powell. The father has always lived in Robertson County, where he was born in 1825. He has been a farmer and distiller; he is now in his sixty-first year. The mother was born in this county in 1827, and is now in her fifty-ninth year. W. A. was born May 5, 1852, and was reared a farmer's boy on the farm with his parents, receiving the education of which the common schools of the county gave advantage. He remained with his parents till attaining his majority. In 1872 he was united in the bonds of matrimony to Lizzie A. Long, who was born in September, 1849, being a native of Robertson County, Tenn. Mr. Powell's married life has been blessed by the birth of two children, Robert M. and James E. In 1879 he bought 131 acres of land when he commenced farming. He is now owner of 370 acres of good land, all lying within the Fourth District, where he is engaged in the pursuit of farming. Mr. Powell is a member of the Democratic party and of the Missionary Baptist Church. He is a good and enterprising citizen of the county.
N. L. Qualls, one of the young farmers of Robertson County, was born in this county April 15, 1861, being one of the six children born to the marriage of Lafayette and Elizabeth (Sherod) Qualls. The father was born in Robertson County in 1830, where he lived and died; his death occuring in the latter part of 1863, from injuries received in the war. The mother was a native of Todd County, Ky., where she was [p.1183] born in 1836; she died in Robertson County in 1869. The immediate subject of this sketch was like other farmer boys of his boyhood days, deprived of educational advantages save those furnished by the common schools of the county. He did not leave the parental roof until attaining the age of twenty years, working on the farm with his father previous to this. In 1880 he chose as his bridal companion and helpmeet, Nannie Highsmith, daughter of Elijah and Thressa Highsmith. She was born in 1857. Two children have blessed this marriage, the names of whom are Samuel C. and Effie M. In 1884 Mr. Qualls bought his farm of forty-one acres where he pursues the noble avocation of the agriculturist. Politically he is a Democrat; he is a member in good standing in the Missionary Baptist Church.
Dr. D. W. Ramer, physician and merchant, of the Tenth District, was born May 9, 1849, in Cheatham County, Tenn., and is the son of William and Lucinda (Chandion) Ramer. His father was born in Cheatham County July, 1822, and died in February, 1878. His mother was also a native of Cheatham County, born about 1820 and died in 1852. Dr. Ramer came to Robertson County with his parents when a child and lived with them until the death of his mother which sad event occurred when he was but three years of age. Until he reached the age of twenty-two he lived with friends and received his education at the common schools of Robertson and Cheatham Counties. At that age he began studying medicine at the University at Nashville and graduated March 1, 1874. After receiving his diploma he located in the Tenth District, where he has pursued his honorable calling to this time. In 1876 he wedded Miss Mary Sprouse, daughter of J. W. and Tennessee Sprouse. To Dr. and Mrs. Ramer were born three children: Claudie, Vertrice and Vernon. Dr. Ramer is a stanch Democrat and cast his first vote for Tilden and Hendricks. He is a Master Mason and also a member of the O. of P. He is a member of the Free Will Baptist Church and his wife is a member of the Missionary Baptist Church. By his energy and industry Dr. Ramer has worked himself into a good practice and is one of the leading men of his neighborhood. He is also the senior partner in the firm of Ramer & Sprouse, located at Sprouseville, Tenth District.
Bayless Randolph was born in Caswell County, N. C., May 19, 1812. He was one of twelve children born to William Randolph, a native of Prince William County, Va., born December 24, 1787. His grandfather was also named William Randolph. After the death of his grandfather his grandmother married Thomas Purcell and moved to North Carolina, when our subject's father was but eighteen years of age. Bayless Randolph's [p.1184] mother was Mary Hinton, and he and three of his sisters and brothers were born in North Carolina. In 1815 or 1816 his parents came to Tennessee and settled in Robertson County, and built the first house where Cross Plains now stands, and lived there four years, farming and selling whisky. His father lived near Cross Plains twelve years and then bought the property where our subject now lives. In April, 1875, his death occurred. Our subject lived with his parents till he became of age, when he married Lydia Ann Yates, daughter of James Yates, in 1833. To Mr. and Mrs. Randolph have been born twelve children: William B., Elizabeth, James, Nancy, Harrison, Martha, Augustus, Sarah, George A., Susan A., Margaret and Lydia. James was in Company K, Fourteenth Tennessee Volunteers, and died in Virginia. Margaret died in 1857, the others are still living. Since our subject's marriage he has lived principally where he is at present, the home place of his father. He was elected justice of the peace at one time, which office he held for six years. He is now a farmer and owns 209 acres of good land. Mr. Randolph has five brothers and sisters living at this time.
James Roark was born in Macon County, Tenn., in 1844, and is a son of W. S. Roark, who was also born in that county. His grandfather, Reuben Roark, was a North Carolinian by birth and came to Tennessee, settling in Macon County. Our subject's father married Mary Holland, and to them were born ten children, eight of whom are now living. Our subject was reared in his native county and lived there until twenty-five years of age. In 1861 or 1862 he enlisted in the war under Capt. Bennett, and after being in the service fifteen months was discharged on account of being under age. He was in no hard fought battles and served mostly in Tennessee and Mississippi. After returning home he resided with his parents two or three years and then came to Robertson County, where he wedded Miss Martha Webb, a daughter of Wesley Webb. They have one child, Dora Ella. Mr. Roark owns ninety-nine acres of land and is an energetic and industrious man. The first of the Roarks who came to Robertson County, Tenn., was our subject's uncle, A. C. Roark, who came in 1860, with his wife and three children: J. W., C. W., and Mary (Summerville).
J. M. Roney is one of eleven children and was born in Sumner County, Tenn., March 8, 1817, son of James and Catherine (Young) Raney, the former of Irish descent, son of James Roney, who was born in Ireland and lived to be very old. The father was born in 1772 and was a pioneer of Tennessee. J. M., our subject, was reared in his native county and resided with his people until twenty years of age. He acquired [p.1185] a common school education, and in 1837 was married to Angeline Muloy, daughter of Daniel and Elizabeth (Shelley) Muloy. To them were born seven children, six of whom are living: A. L., Daniel M., Parnecia A., J. M., Edward F. and Mary J. (deceased). Mrs. Roney died in 1855. After marriage Mr. Roney came to Robertson County and began farming. He owns 170 acres of good land. September 28, 1856, he was married the second time to Delina A. Arnold, daughter of Elijah Arnold, whose ancestors came from North Carolina. They have one child, Julia, born in 1857. In 1839 Mr. Roney purchased an old anvil and bellows and did blacksmithing for himself and neighbors, and worked at that and gunsmithing for a number of years. On account of his age he has given up farming, but when able is found in his shop. He took no part in the late war, being too old to join. His son, A. L., was in Company K, Fourteenth Tennessee. Mr. Roney is a member of the Masonic fraternity and I. O. O. F., and he and wife are members of the Baptist Church. He was elected justice of the peace for six years in 1882, and is now holding that office.
T. F. Rose, an energetic young farmer of the Fifth District, was born in this county October 18, 1855, being one of six children of Elias and Virginia A. (Green) Rose. The father was a native of Robertson County, where he was born July 9, 1823. He lived all his life in his native county, and was a farmer by occupation. He was overtaken by death before having reached a very advanced age, his death occurring September 26, 1861. The mother was born in the same county January 7, 1832, and is now living in the county. The immediate subject of this sketch was raised with his parents to the age of twenty-one, securing his education in the common schools of the county, and at Hickory Wild Academy in Montgomery County. In 1870 he was married to Rose Ellen, daughter of George C. and Fannie Sanford. Mrs. Rose was born in 1863. She is the mother of three children, Thomas E., Maud and William E. In 1877 he bought eighty-five acres of land in this county, and commenced farming on his own responsibility where he now resides. In politics he is a Democrat. He holds the esteem of all who know him, and is a worthy young citizen.
J. F. Ruffin, dealer in groceries and hardware at Cedar Hill, Tenn. He carries a small but select stock of goods, and began business in 1882. He was born on the old homestead in Robertson County, Tenn., January 15, 1861, and is a son of J. E. and S. A. (Batts) Ruffin. The family settled in the county at a very early date, and J. E. Ruffin received a very thorough education in several of the best schools of the State. He was a teacher and was engaged in the dry goods business a [p.1186] short time. His wife died in 1878. Our subject remained at home until twenty-two years of age, and on November 25, 1883, was united in marriage to Ada Featherston. They have one child, a daughter, Laura F. Mr. Ruffin attended the common schools until entering the high school at Adams Station in 1875. He finished the course in 1878, and then began working in his grandfather's tobacco factory, continuing two years. He then became clerk in W. R. Featherston's store, and on November 8, 1882, began business for himself. He is an energetic young man, and has the confidence of all who know him. He is a Democrat and a member of the Baptist Church. His wife belongs to the Methodist Episcopal Church South.
B. Rutledge, farmer, of District No. 7, was born in 1829 in Washington, Va., and is a son of Peter and Phoebe Rutledge who were born in the "Old Dominion." The father was a blacksmith by trade. The subject of this memoir was reared by his parents and made his home with them until he was twenty years old. In 1850 he left the paternal roof and went to Lincoln County, Ky., and hired out as a day laborer on a farm. In 1850 he wedded Harriet E. Booth and soon afterward came to Robertson County, Tenn., and settled in District No. 17. January 22, 1869, Mrs. Rutledge died and June 9, 1870, Mr. Rutledge married Nancy James, daughter of Solomon and Rebecca James. Mrs. Rutledge was born in Robertson County June 30, 1836. In 1878 our subject purchased 165 acres of land near Turnersville, where he settled and now resides. He is an excellent citizen and neighbor and in politics is a Democrat. He and wife are members of the Free-Will Baptist Church.
Hon. W. R. Sadler, groceryman and flour manufacturer, was born 1824, in Madison County, Ala., and is the son of John and Nancy (Hawkins) Sadler. The father was of Irish origin, a native of Virginia, born in 1801, and when young worked as a mill-wright but in later years spent his time in the manufacture of flour. In 1828 he moved to Sumner County, Tenn., where he remained until 1840 and then came to Robertson County where his career ended in the spring of 1881. The mother was of French extraction, born in 1800, in Virginia, and died in 1880. Our subject was reared at home and received his education in the country schools of Sumner and Robertson Counties. July 27, 1847, he wedded Ann Gunn, a native of Tennessee, born in 1823 and to them were born three children, George T., Nancy and Cora Just before our subject was twenty-one he and his father bought a flouring-mill and our subject was placed in control of it, and in connection with this mill established a general merchandise store under the firm name of Sadler & Huey. In 1870 they moved their store to the Louisville & Nashville Railroad, which [p.1187] place is now known as Sadler's Station. In 1876 our subject sold his interest in this store to Mr. Jones and came to Springfield, where he bought an interest in a steam flouring-mill at that place. In 1884 Mr. Sadler established a grocery store in connection with his mill. He is a prominent business man of Springfield and is highly esteemed as an honest and industrious man. In political sentiments he is a Democrat, being one of the leading men of his party. In 1851 he was elected magistrate and held the office for eighteen years. In 1869 he was elected to the State Legislature for two years and filled this office so efficiently that accordingly, in 1885, he was elected to fill the unexpired term of H. C. Crunk, which office he now holds. He is also the present mayor of Springfield, a member of the Masonic lodge and the Methodist Episcopal Church.
T. G. Shelton, one of Robertson County's enterprising farmers, is a child of the marriage of Joseph W. Shelton and Elizabeth Smith, his birth occurring July 25, 1839, and he being one of a family of ten children. The father was born in Robertson County, in 1817. He lived all his life in this county where he followed farming. He died in 1870. The mother was a native and lifetime resident of this county, her birth occurring in 1817 and her death in 1863. T. G., the one of whom this sketch is written, was reared on a farm with his parents until attaining his majority, having received the educational advantages as furnished by the common county schools. In 1850 he began farming on his own responsibility and in 1869 bought fifty acres of land in the Fourth District where he has ever since continued this noble pursuit. In his success he is now the owner of 247 acres of good land. He chose as his companion, Roseline Barbee, and wedded her in 1871. She is a daughter of George and Nancy Barbee and has become the mother of five children: Joseph, Nannie, Annie, Pearl and Cleveland. Mr. Shelton has been successful as a farmer and is a worthy citizen of the county. He is a member of the Democratic party and of the Missionary Baptist Church.
Robert H. Sherrod, one of the old citizens and farmers of District No. 6, was born March 11, 1816, in Robertson County, and received his education in the county schools. He remained at home until twenty-seven years of age. August 2, 1842, he wedded Mary Reed, daughter of John and Elizabeth Reed. Mrs. Sherrod was born September 21, 1824, in Rutherford County, Tenn., and by her union with Mr. Sherrod she became the mother of an interesting family of eight children: Joseph H., William D. D., John E. D., Louisa, Mary A., Robert A., Garling A. and Martha E. Mr. Sherrod lost his wife February 27, 1869, and September of the same year was married to Mickey A. McClary, daughter of [p.1188] Garling and Sarah A. Reed. Mrs. Sherrod was born December 4, 1828, in Kentucky, and to this union were born two children: James B. and Cinda B. A few years previous to his marriage, Mr. Sherrod purchased ninety acres near Adams Station, where he located after marriage. In 1852 he settled on 860 acres two miles south of Adams Station, where he has since resided. Mr. Sherrod commenced life as a poor boy but, by his industry and good management, he now owns 700 acres and is a well-to-do farmer. In politics he is a Democrat. He was the son of William and Mary A. (Dunn) Sherrod. The father was born about 1780, in North Carolina, and was a farmer by occupation. About 1800 he left his native State and came to Robertson County, Tenn., where he lived at the time of his marriage. He was one of the first settlers in the county and died in 1864. The mother was of German descent, and was born about 1788, in Robertson County, Tenn. She died in April, 1862.
D. H. Simmons was born October 6, 1829, son of Thomas A. Simmons, who was born in Virginia, in 1793, near Richmond. The grandfather, Henry Simmons, is of English descent and came to America when a young man and settled in Virginia where he followed farming and was a wealthy man. Thomas Simmons was reared on a farm and when twenty-one years old he and his sister Charlotte (now Mrs. Vick) came to Tennessee and settled in Robertson County, in 1810. The father married Miss Mary Clayton, daughter of Daniel Clayton, a Baptist minister. To them were born nine children, our subject being the fourth. The father was in the war of 1812, and carried on farming and owned at the time of his death a great deal of land. He died in 1840, and the mother in 1865. Our subject received a good education and at the age of eighteen began teaching school. He attended the academy at Russellville, and while there fitted himself for teaching, and taught for many years in one place. He was married, February 14, 1858, to Miss E. H. Holland, daughter of Richard Holland. To them were born these children: Elenore, A. L., R. L., Theodore and W. After teaching ten years Mr. Simmons farmed, and in 1878 moved onto the farm where he now lives. He owns 450 acres of good land. He had two sons in the late war, his son Thomas being killed at Gettysburg.
John M. Speer, superintendent of the Louisville & Nashville R. R., is a son of James G. and Eliza (O'Brien) Speer. The father was born in Tennessee in 1802 and obtained a collegiate education, and was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. His death occurred in 1834. He was the father of three children, our subject being the second. John M. was born April 2, 1830, and assisted his parents on the farm until eighteen years of age when he attended a school taught by Prof. John G. Wilson, [p.1189] who was considered a very fine educator. After attending two terms, in 1850, he began teaching, but soon entered a dry goods store in Turnersville, where he remained until 1854. He was married to Mary M. Gossett June 11, 1853, and to them two children were born: William B. and James R. (deceased). Mr. Speer taught in different localities and gave good satisfaction. He returned to Cedar Hill in 1859 and became local agent of the Edgefield & Kentucky Railroad Company, continuing two years. He then farmed three years, and in October, 1865, was appointed roadmaster and paymaster of the Edgefield & Kentucky Railroad. At the end of eight years he engaged in the coal business in Kentucky, which proved to be a very unfortunate undertaking, but after the failure paid all his creditors in full with interest. In 1879 he was appointed superintendent of the Henderson division of the Louisville & Nashville Railroad, and has held that position ever since. He has won the respect and esteem of his employers, as he has of his neighbors. He is a Democrat and a member of the F. & A. M. He and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church South.
Hon. Joseph C. Stark, judge of the Tenth Judicial Circuit of Tennessee, was born December 29, 1817, in Sumner County, Tenn., and is the son of John and Margaret (Prinn) Stark. The father was of Scotch origin, a native of Virginia, and followed agricultural pursuits for a livelihood. He came to this State when it was almost an unbroken wilderness and died in 1862. The mother was also a native of Virginia, and died in 1873. Our subject received the rudiments of his education in the county schools, and subsequently from a private instructor. At the age of eighteen he began teaching school, which oocupation he followed for ten months. In 1840 he began the study of law under Hon. John J. White, where he remained for eighteen months, after which he came to Springfield and entered upon the practice of his life's work. Judge Stark has had, by the thorough knowledge of his profession, more than ordinary success at the bar. In 1848 he married Lamiza A. Baird, a native of Tennessee, born in 1829. To this union were born these children: Charlie B., Joseph C. (Jr.) John L., Robert L., Felix J. and Annie L. Charles is in St. Louis practicing law. Joseph C., Jr., is in Texas dealing in stock and merchandise. John L. is in Springfield practicing law with his father, and the remainder are at home. In 1844 Judge Stark was appointed clerk and master of the Chancery Court of Robertson County, holding the office until 1851. In the same year he was elected to the Senate, where he represented Robertson and Montgomery Counties. He was chairman of the committee of common schools and a member of several others of less importance. In 1878 he was elected [p.1190] judge of the Tenth Judicial Circuit Court, which position he now holds. In both his private and public life Judge Stark has always so conducted himself as to bear an unsullied reputation. He is a Democrat in politics, and a member of the Masonic fraternity. He and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
John W. Stark, wholesale liquor dealer and distiller, was born June 30, 1833, in Robertson County, Tenn., and is one of a family of thirteen children born to William and Elizabeth (Pitt) Stark. The father was of English descent, a native of Tennessee, and was born in 1790. He was a farmer by occupation and bought property in the Tenth District where he remained until his death, which occurred in 1864, being in his seventy-fifth year. The mother was also of English extraction and was born in the year 1798 and died in 1872. Our subject received a somewhat limited education owing to the weakness of his eyes at the time he should have been in school. March 24, 1853, he wedded Margaret Powell, daughter of William and Charlotte Powell. Mrs. Stark was born in Tennessee in the year 1836, and died June 8, 1854. On July 1, 1855, he married Mary Powell, sister to his first wife. Mrs. Stark was born March 9, 1842, and by her union with John W. Stark became the mother of three children: William Harrison, who was born August 9, 1856; John B., born October 10, 1861, and Tennessee Elizabeth, born September 3, 1876. In his youth our subject had learned the blacksmith trade, which he in after years abandoned, and bought eighty acres in District No. 8, where he settled and erected a distillery which he carried on in connection with his farm work. This he continued until 1872, when he sold his distillery and rented one five miles east of Springfield, of which he is now proprietor. In 1880 Mr. Stark sold his farm and came to Springfield, where he has since resided. He owns 450 acres of land, one vacant lot, four dwelling houses on Main Street, and property in other parts of the town, besides five business rooms. Mr. Stark has been one of Robertson County's leading business men for the past thirty-five years and is highly respected as an honest and worthy citizen. In politics he is a Democrat but is very conservative in his belief, voting for the man he believes to be best qualified for the position. He is a member of the Masonic lodge.
S. G. Strother was born in Richmond County, N. C., October 22, 1804, son of John and Susan (Gibson) Strother, natives of Virginia and North Carolina, respectively. The mother died when our subject was quite young and the father married again and moved to Tennessee in 1810 and died in this State. S. G. Strother resided with his parents until twenty-one years of age when he went to West Tennessee and was [p.1191] married to Lydia Kilgore, daughter of Thomas Kilgore, Jr., July 14, 1830. She was born December 31, 1802, and died December 3, 1832. Mr. Strother then came to Cross Plains and clerked in the store of Marcus D. Young, continuing with him one year and earning $200. The next year he clerked for Gaines Williams & Co., and then he and John W. Bryan purchased the entire stock of goods and carried on the business for themselves. In 1837 Mr. Strother married Mary Payne, daughter of Gideon Payne, and to them were born six children: Lydia R. (deceased), John B., Sarah, Susan E., S. G., Jr., and D. W. Mr. Strother continued in the mercantile business until 1878, having several different men for his partners. He is one of the oldest business men in Cross Plains. He now resides on a small farm near the town.
Jesse H. Stroud was born on the 12th of December, 1849, in Robertson County, Tenn., son of William and Nancy (Rosson) Stroud. The father was a Welshman by descent, was born in South Carolina in 1798 and was a farmer. When about six years old he came to Tennessee with his uncle, Jeese Stroud, with whom he lived until sixteen years old. He became a successful farmer and owned 400 acres of land. He died in 1878. The mother was born in Tennessee in 1813 and died in 1883. Our subject was reared on a farm, residing with his parents until twenty-three years old. In 1872 he married Sallie Coleman, born March 10, 1855, in Robertson County, Tenn., and daughter of James and Margaret Coleman. They became the parents of these children: James F., Mary F., William I. and Myrtle A. The wife died in 1883, and July 17 of the following year he wedded Jennie Connell, who was born in October, 1867, daughter of Richard and Margaret Connell. They have one child, Cora Mabel. In 1885 Mr. Stroud moved on the old home place. He is industrious and a good manager and owns 400 acres of good land. He is a Democrat in politics and cast his first vote for Horace Greeley.
Dixon Summerville was born in Robertson County, Tenn., March 14, 1824, and is a son of John Summerville, who was born in Virginia. He was married in that State to Miss Phelia Payne, daughter of James Payne. They became the parents of thirteen children--eleven sons and two daughters. All lived to become of age, but only one is now living, our subject. The father located in Robertson County, on coming to Tennessee, where he owned 200 acres of land. Dixon owns ninety-three acres of the farm and resided with his parents until their death, and continues to live on the old home place. At the age of twenty-four he led to the hymeneal altar Miss Sallie Rigsbee, of North Carolina, daughter of James Rigsbee. To this marriage have been born nine children, five of whom are living, named Richard, J. Taylor, James M., Phoebe (Webb) [p.1192] and Mary Ann (Gossett), all living in the county. They took no part in the late war.
T. O. Tarpley was born in North Carolina October 20, 1814, and is one of ten children born to Leighton and Rebecca Tarpley. Our subject's father was born in North Carolina in 1787, and his grandfather, Thomas Tarpley, was also a native of North Carolina. His mother was of Irish extraction and was born in 1794. There were three girls and seven boys, of this family, of whom eight are now living. When our subject was but four years old, his father moved to Virginia, and died July 1, 1848, and his mother died July 26, 1843. When thirty-six years of age, our subject was married to Elizabeth Preston, and to this marriage were born five children, one in Virginia and four in Tennessee, namely: William A., Jessie F., Martha A., Henry L. and Osman V. Soon after his marriage he moved to Tennessee, and here his wife died November, 1880. For his second wife Mr. Tarpley married Mary Jane Miles, widow of Rev. O. C. Miles, and a native of Adair County, Ky. When our subject came to Tennessee, he settled at Elm Springs, and lived here twenty-six years. In 1881 he moved to the property on which he now lives, near Orlinda. In 1860 he was elected justice of the peace, which office he held for sixteen years, and has tried over 600 cases. He is a Mason, an Odd Fellow, and has been a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church since 1836.
W. T. Taylor was born February 2, 1845, in this county. He is one of ten children born to Dempsie and Sallie (Turner) Taylor, natives of this county. The father was a farmer all his life, having never lived in any other than his native county. He was of course among the early residents of the county, his birth having occurred July 26, 1809, and his death July 12, 1878. The mother was born March 13, 1815; she lived till March 2, 1878, when she was summoned to join the innumerable dead. Our subject's early days were spent with his parents on the farm; his educational advantages were similar to those of the other boys of his early day. At the age of twenty-one he left the parental roof, and in 1865 he was wedded to his matrimonial choice, Leona Holland, daughter of Richard and Obediance Holland. Mrs. Taylor was a native of this county, born in 1849, and in this marriage she became the mother of four children, Wesley D., Cora, Idella and Dempsie W. Six years after he married, Mr. Taylor bought seventy-three acres of land and has since been engaged in the vocation of farming, in which he has been successful, he now owning 360 acres. He is a firm member of the Democratic party and a member in good standing of the Primitive Baptist Church.
Z. Taylor, a farmer of Robertson County, was born in this county [p.1193] December 26, 1846, being one of ten children of Dempsie W. and Sallie (Turner) Taylor. The father was also born in this county, his birth being January 26, 1809; he followed the vocation of a farmer all his life, having never lived in any other county than Robertson. He died June 12, 1878. The mother was born March 13, 1815, in this county, and died March 2, 1878. Our subject faithfully remained with his parents till attaining the age of twenty-five, having received the advantages of the county schools. His marriage ceremony was solemnized in 1870, uniting him to Viola Dozier, whose parents were Richard and Patsy Dozier. Mrs. Taylor was born in Robertson County, in 1854, and by her marriage is the mother of two children, Ray W. and Maudie. In 1874 Mr. Taylor came into possession of 164 acres of land and thence forward he has been successfully engaged in the pursuit of farming, now owning 241 acres of land all lying in District No. 4. Politically he is a Democrat, and he is a well-respected citizen of Robertson County.
Dr. H. S. Taylor, a farmer and physician of Robertson County, was born in this county July 9, 1842, being one of twelve children--the result of the marriage of Jesse B. and Amanda (Thompson) Taylor, natives of Robertson County, where the father was born in 1814, and the mother in 1817. The father has always resided in this county in the pursuit of farming, now having reached the advanced age of seventy-two. The mother was a lifetime resident of this county, and at the age of sixty-two passed into the stillness of death. Dr. Taylor, after attending the common schools of the county, entered the Vanderbilt University at Nashville, in which institution he received a certificate of graduation. He remained at his parental home until the age of twenty-two. In 1867 Dr. Taylor began teaching school, which he continued till 1870. In 1869 he was married to Josephine, daughter of Abraham and Lucy Miller, and a native of Georgia, born in 1845. She died in 1873, and in 1875 he was married to Addie L. Holman, who bore him one child, Henry J. This wife was a daughter of David L. and Mary Holman. She died in October, 1884, and he then chose and wedded Mattie M. Dean, who was born in this county in 1861, being a daughter of John M. and Minerva Dean. Mr. Taylor bought a farm in 1882, and has since followed farming and practiced medicine, bearing the esteem of all. He is a Democrat in politics, and a member of the Missionary Baptist church.
Dr. J. T. W. Taylor was born in Wilson County, Tenn., April 9, 1833, and is one of ten children born to William and Mary E. (Brown) Taylor, born in North Carolina and Tennessee, the father in 1781. He came to Tennessee on reaching man's estate, and here married. The mother's [p.1194] father died while serving in the war of 1812, and her mother's death occurred when she was quite young. Our subject was reared by his father, who was a farmer and tobacco manufacturer, and died in 1844. The mother died in 1862. Our subject remained with his mother on the farm after his father's death, and obtained a common school education. In 1855 he began reading medicine with Dr. G. J. Simmons, of Kentucky, remaining with him one year. He then took a course of lectures in the Nashville University,, and afterward graduated in 1859. He then came to Cross Plains, where he practiced his profession alone until 1866, when he became connected with Dr. L. B. Walter, and soon after the elder Dr. Walter was taken into the firm. At the end of four years they dissolved partnership, and since then Dr. Taylor has practiced alone. June 14, 1860, he was married to Pernecy L. Payne, daughter of Gideon and Annie (Kilgore) Payne, and widow of E. M. Richards. Dr. Taylor is the leading physician of Cross Plains, and is a Mason and Odd Fellow. He and wife belong to the Cumberland Presbyterian Church, and is a farmer as well as physician, and owns 300 acres of land.
Archie Thomas, editor and proprietor of the Springfield Record, of Springfield, was born May 25, 1836, in Springfield, Robertson Co., Tenn., and is one of seven children born to Dr. Archie and Edith (White) Thomas. The father and mother were of Scotch-Welsh extraction; the father born in 1780 in Virginia, was a physician and surgeon by profession, and also a teacher, and came to this county early in the nineteenth century, where he began the practice of medicine, in which he was eminently successful. During the war with the Creek Indians he participated as surgeon, and also at New Orleans with Gen. Jackson. He was one of the first physicians of Robertson County, and died June 27, 1852. The mother died in 1866. Our subject remained at home with his mother until over twenty years of age, and his education was acquired at the old log schoolhouse and in the printing office. In the latter place he served an apprentice for five years, and at the end of the last year received $70 for his services. Not feeling satisfied with his education, he attended school for five months, after which he again entered the newspaper business as a type-setter. July 31, 1859, he married Mary J. Egman, a native of Tennessee, born in January, 1842. To them were born five children: Emma, Richard D., Robert H., Wilmoth P. and Mary E. Mr. Thomas was one of the boys in gray, and enlisted in Company A, Thirtieth Tennessee Regiment, as lieutenant; was captured at Fort Donelson, taken to Camp Chase, Ohio, where he remained until May, and in September was exchanged, but owing to ill health was discharged and returned home. In 1866 he entered into partnership [p.1195] and became editor of the Robertson County Register, but in 1868 the press was moved to Clarksville, and later Mr. Thomas and his brother, R. F., established the Springfield Record. In 1881 our subject bought his brother's interest, and since then Archie Thomas has been sole editor and proprietor. Mr. Thomas lost his wife in 1872, and the same year married Mary A. Lane, a native of Tennessee, born January 10, 1842. They have one child, Archie Ruth. Mrs. Thomas is a lady of literary note, being a frequent contributor to numerous journals in Tennessee and elsewhere. In 1882 Mr. Thomas met with a sad misfortune, fire destroying the press, together with all the back files, papers, etc. In two months he again issued his paper, which has been running ever since. In politics he is a Democrat, and a member of the Masonic fraternity and K. of H.
Richard F. Thomas, coal merchant, was born November 16, 1841, in Springfield, and is the third son of a family of seven children born to Dr. Archie and Edith H. (White) Thomas. Our subject received his education at the Liberty Academy at Springfield and made his home with his mother as long as she lived. At the age of fifteen he commenced clerking in a book and confectionery store in Springfield, where he worked for one year, after which he re-entered school and remained as a student for two years. He then returned to clerking for his brother, Archie, in a grocery store until 1861. In 1868 he established himself in business, in the grocery line, on his own responsibility, and in 1869 he entered into partnership with his brother, Archie, in the printing office, the paper being known as the Springfield Record. He remained in the newspaper business until 1880, when, owing to ill health, he sold his interest to his brother and engaged in the livery and feed stable business until 1884. In 1879 Mr. Thomas became coal merchant in connection with his other work, and since 1884, has spent his time in supplying the citizens of Springfield with their fuel. May 1, 1872, he married Louann Vick, a native of Kentucky, born in 1847, and to them were born these children: Richard, Vick, Emmet O., Hubert F., Lou and Ella. Mr. Thomas is a Democrat in politics, a member of the Masonic fraternity, and also of the K. of O. lodge. He and wife are consistent members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
Aaron Turner, a native of Sumner County, Tenn., as were also his parents. Frank and Delphico Turner were born April 26, 1834. He was reared by his parents, who were the slaves of Stephen H. Turner, and after Mr. Turner's death, Aaron became the property of his son, with whom he remained until June, 1862. He served his master as cook in the Confederate Army until after the battle of Fort Donelson, and [p.1196] shortly after this became identified with the Federal Army, as an attache of Company H, Twenty-ninth Ohio Cavalry. After the war he farmed two years, then worked two years at blacksmithing, in Sumner County, and there opened a shop in Cross Plains, where he has since resided and prospered. Besides his town property he owns 276 acres of land. November 15, 1857, he married Ann Brooks, who has born him eight children, these six now living: Luella, Frank, Haywood, Amy, Ada and Virgil. Mr. Turner is a Republican, and he and wife belong to the African Methodist Episcopal Church.
W. H. Villines is a native of Robertson County, Tenn., born June 22, 1836, son of William Villines, born in North Carolina in 1804, where he lived until 1830 and followed farming. He was married to Mary Cotherm, a sister of the noted William Cotherm, merchant of Philadelphia. The father located in Robertson County, and built a saw and grist-mill on Red River. After about eight years he began trading in negroes. He was bitterly opposed to the war, and took no part in the hostilities. He visited many of the hospitals and did all he could to alleviate the sufferings of his friends, and spent many thousand dollars in this way. After the war he built a mill near Cross Plains. He has erected many of the best buildings in the town. He closed his eventful life January 9, 1876. Our subject was reared in the vicinity of Cross Plains. He lived with his father until twenty-four years of age, and assisted him in keeping a livery stable and hotel. At that time he wedded Nancy Yates, daughter of Charles and Nancy Yates. To them were born eight children, five now living: Lizzie, Nannie, Mattie, Charley and John. Mrs. Villines died November 26, 1879, and December 4, 1883, Mr. Villines married Bell Bransford, daughter of John Bransford, of Massachusetts. Mr. Villines is the leading stock dealer of his community, and also deals in wagons and buggies. He has been engaged in several different occupations, and at one time kept a blacksmith and repair shop. He has built a telephone line from his town to Springfield, and is a man of energy and enterprise.
George W. Walker, who lives in the Third District, was born to the marriage of Emas Walker and Elizabeth Neely, in Davidson County, on the date of August 15, 1812, he being of a family of ten children. The father was of Scotch ancestry. He was born March 17, 1787, in Davidson County, Tenn., and of course his early life was among the pioneers. He died in Green County, Ark., July 21, 1856. The mother was born November 29, 1794, in Davidson County. She reached the age of sixty-four, and in 1858 she was summoned by the inevitable call of death. She was then living in Arkansas. Twenty-one years of our subject's life [p.1197] were spent with his parents. He received his education in the county schools. In 1846 he was married to Elizabeth, daughter of Enoch P. and Elizabeth Connell. Mrs. Walker was born in Davidson County October 18, 1829. She is the mother of seven children, viz.: Caroline; Nannie, the wife of S. B. McIntosh; Catharine, the wife of J. A. Gunn; Mary Ann; William C.; Mattie and Georgie Ann. Mr. Walker moved to Robertson County in 1854, and has ever since continued farming in the Third District, and he now owns 412 acres of land. He is a Democrat in politics, and bears the esteem of all who know him.
Prof. J. M. Walton is a native of the county where he now resides; born May 7, 1854, son of Thomas J. and Martha (Bartlett) Walton, natives of Virginia and Tennessee, born in 1800 and 1813, respectively. The family came to Tennessee in 1802, and here the father practiced medicine and was one of the leading physicians of his time. He practiced within a radius of twenty-five miles around Cross Plains, and has been called brilliant by those who knew his character and many virtues. He was respected and loved by all, and died April 15, 1872. Our subject came of a race of physicians, there being one in the family as far back as the beginning of the eighteenth century, going back as far as five generations. After attaining a thorough early education, at the age of fourteen he entered the Franklin (Tennessee) College, remaining two years. He attended school in Virginia three years, and then entered the law department of the Cumberland University and graduated in one year. It was against the law of the school to graduate in less than three sessions, but by a brilliant speech before the law professors Mr. Walton was given his diploma, and graduated in 1859. At the breaking out of the war, in 1861, he joined the Seventh Tennessee Cavalry, and served six or seven months, but, owing to ill health, returned home. He was in the battle of Shiloh. In 1866 he began teaching school in Cross Plains, and was so successful that he was induced to continue, and was the means of founding the present college in 1873. In 1874 he went to Gallatin, Tenn., and conducted the Howard Female College at that place four years. He then returned to Cross Plains and purchased an interest in the college he had helped to found, and has now the largest school in Robertson County. November 27, 1870, he was married to Addie A. Blackman, daughter of Albert Blackman, of Warren County, Tenn. To them were born seven children, three now living: E., N. B. and J. M. The Doctor has been a member of the Masonic fraternity.
Dr. L. B. Walton is a son of T. J. Walton and was born near Cross Plains, Tenn., December 25, 1827. He secured a fair education in the neighboring schools and at the age of sixteen entered a seminary in Sumner [p.1198] County where he finished his education. He then began the study of medicine with his father and in 1847-48-49, attended the Louisville Medical College where he graduated and returned home and practiced with his father two years in Cross Plains. He resided in the country about fifteen years and then returned to town and resided there three years practicing his profession. He again returned to the country where he has since lived and practiced his profession. December 18, 1854, he was married to M. H. French, daughter of Thomas J. and Frances (Atchison) French. The father was a business man of Clarksville. To our subject's marriage were born four children: Mattie, born in 1860; T. J., born in 1862; Martin, born in 1865 and Fannie, born in 1871. Dr. Walton has always made his home in the county. He owns 2,000 acres of land, 350 acres under cultivation. Mrs. Walton's father died March 12, 1839, and her mother December 3, 1845. Dr. Walton is a member of the Masonic fraternity; Master Mason of the Western Star Lodge at Springfield. He is now a member of the Cherry Mound Lodge and was made a Royal Arch Mason at Cross Plains.
William C. Warfield, an energetic farmer of the Seventeenth District, was born in this county February 14, 1850, being the third of three children whose parents were Charles M. and Mary Elizabeth Warfield. The father was of English descent. He was born in Maryland January 15, 1808. By occupation he was a farmer, which he followed the greater part of his life. At the time of his marriage he was living in Robertson County, in which county he died September 7, 1879. The mother was also of English descent. Her birth was in Green County, Ky., August 15, 1827. Mr. Warfield, of whom this sketch is written, was twenty-one years old before leaving the parental home. He received a common school education and then attended Bryant & Stratton's Commercial College, Louisville, Ky. March 7, 1872, he chose and wedded Nannie Sadler, who was born to the marriage of Robert and Rhoda Ann Sadler November 24, 1850. To the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Warfield have been born six children, viz.: Laban C., Robert S., Lizzie, Laura, George Buford and Tom Pepper. At the time of his marriage Mr. Warfield owned 220 acres of land, and he afterward bought 275 acres in Montgomery County. He has been a successful farmer and has succeeded in gaining the esteem of those who know him best. He is a member of the Democratic party and of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
B. F. Webster, proprietor of the Greenbrier Star Cooper Shop, was born June 21, 1838, in Davidson County, Tenn., and is one of eight children born to Abraham and Margaret (True) Webster. The subject of this sketch was reared at home, receiving his education in the country [p.1199] schools of Robertson County. March 29, 1859, he married Matilda Swift, a native of Robertson County, Tenn., and born in 1838; she is the daughter of Richard and Mary Swift. To Mr. and Mrs. Webster were born six children: Mary (wife of Wiley Savage), Charles, Dora, Rosa, Sandy and Emma. Mr. B. F. Webster engaged in the cooper trade as his father did before him. In 1879 he erected a shop in Greenbrier and in 1882 moved his family to that town, where they are living at present. Mr. Webster is considered one of the leading business men of the place and employs on an average twenty-two hands. He manufactures a No. 1 barrel and his work is in much demand. Mr. Webster bears an unsullied reputation and is respected as an honest straightforward man. In politics he is a Republican, casting his first rote for U. S. Grant. He is a member of the I. O. O. F. His wife is a member of the Baptist Church.
S. N. Webster, farmer, was born April 22, 1841, in Robertson County, and is one of a family of eight children, born to Abraham and Margaret (True) Webster. Our subject was educated in the county schools and in May, 1861, enlisted in Company F, Fourteenth Regiment Tennessee Infantry. He took an active part in the battles of Bath, Cheat Mountain and numerous minor engagements; at the end of fourteen months he was discharged and returned home, but soon afterward joined Morgan and was with him in his raid through Kentucky, Indiana and Ohio. He was captured three different times, the last time being at Gallatin, Tenn. At the close of hostilities he returned home, and in August, 1864, he married Harriet E. Dorris, a native of Tennessee, born March 18, 1846, and the daughter of Robinson T. and Rebecca Dorris. Mr. and Mrs. Webster have five children living: Thomas J., Robert A., Margaret, Ida and Earnest. Mr. Webster learned the miller's trade of his father and after marriage he moved to Springfield and worked for Davis & Ogborn. He then left here and went to Red River Mills, Logan County, Ky., and assumed control of the flouring-mills of that place. In 1883 he gave up his business and moved to Greenbrier, where he established a family grocery which business he carried on for a year. In 1885 he bought 108 acres of land north of Greenbrier, where he now resides. Mr. Webster is a hard working and an industrious man. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity and also of the I. O. O. F. He and wife are members of the Baptist Church. In politics he is a Democrat.
Henry Wells may be mentioned as a prominent farmer of Robertson County, Tenn., born in February, 1826, one of eight children of John and Mary (Watkins) Wells. The father was born in North Carolina, and was of English origin. He came with his parents to Davidson [p.1200] County, Tenn., and was among the very early settlers. They remained in that county but a very short time, and then came to Robertson County, locating on a farm near the Kentucky line. He was married in Todd County, Ky., and resided in Robertson County, Tenn., a few years, and in 1834 moved to Logan County, Ky., where he purchased a farm of 300 acres. The mother died in 1846 and the father in 1865. His second wife, Mary Huey, still resides in this county. The surviving member of the family is our subject, Henry. He made his parents' house his home until his twenty-third year. In October, 1846, he wedded Nancy Woodard, daughter of William Woodard. Mr. Wells and wife resided with his father two years, and then worked a rented farm in Logan County two years and then purchased a farm, consisting of 130 acres, but at the end of six years purchased the farm where he now resides, consisting of 165 acres. Mrs. Wells died in 1856, having borne two children, one of whom is still living, Catherine (wife of J. W. Joiner). August 3, 1857, Mr. Wells married Mary E Joiner. Six children have been born to them: Sarah L., William O., Laura A., John, Addie, Charlotte L. (deceased). Mr. Wells is a Democrat, but was a Whig up to the dissolution of that party. He has been very prosperous and by a well conducted life has obtained an enviable reputation in the community.
J. W. West, farmer, was born in Robertson County, Tenn., July 1, 1827, and is one of six children born to Elijah West, who was born in 1801. Our subject's grandfather was Thomas West, born in North Carolina in 1779, and his grandmother was Bettie Hutchinson, who was the mother of seven children of whom our subject's father was one. J. W. West, with five of his brothers and sisters, lived to be grown, three boys and three girls, of whom four are at the present living. Our subject was reared and received his education close to where he now resides. In 1857 he was married to Miss E. A. Ormand, from near Nashville, Tenn., and to them were born three children, William S., James A. and John R., all of whom are living. Our subject has always lived on a farm and now owns 100 of good land and is a steady industrious man and a member of the church. He has held nor aspired to an office.
Andrew West was born in Jones County, N. C., in July, 1803, son of Thomas and Rachel (Eubank) West, of North Carolina. They became the parents of eight children, our subject being the seventh. Eliza (deceased), Martin, David, Andrew, Tryfenia, Rebecca, Lany and Sallie (deceased). In 1805 the father and his family came to Tennessee. He was a farmer and was in the latter part of the war of 1812. He died in 1862 and the mother some time before. Andrew West was reared in Robertson County and at the age of twenty-one was married to May Payne, [p.1201] daughter of James Payne, of Virginia. To them were born six children, two of whom are living: Albert, James, Thomas, Leah, Rachel and Mary (wife of R. C. Wright). Our subject has resided on his present farm since 1824. He has been quite prosperous and is one of the first men of the county. His brothers, Albert and Thomas, were participants in the late war. Thomas died at Camp Butler. Mr. West is the oldest man in his district.
William H. Whitehead, an enterprising farmer, was born November 18, 1831, in Robertson County, Tenn., and is the son of William and and Louisa B. (Polk) Whitehead. The father was of Scotch descent and was born June 8, 1811, in Robertson County, and was a farmer by occupation. His father, Robert Whitehead, our subject's grandfather, was a native of North Carolina and came to Robertson County at a very early date. William Whitehead, our subject's father, soon after his marriage located near the old home place where his career ended in 1858. The mother was born in 1812 in Robertson County, Tenn., and was a second cousin to ex-President Polk. She died the same year as her husband, only seven or eight days later. Our subject was reared at home and received his education in the county schools. He remained with his parents as long as they lived and in 1859 he returned to his birthplace where he commenced farming on his own responsibility. July 5, 1860, he married Harriett E. Gill, daughter of Robert R. and Isabel E. (Adkins) Gill. Mrs Whitehead was born October 29, 1840, in Kentucky, and to her union with Mr. Whitehead was born one child, Robert Nicholas. In 1861 he enlisted in Company F, Forty-ninth Regiment, Tennessee. He took an active part in the battles of Fort Donelson, Atlanta, Franklin and numerous minor engagements. At the surrender of Fort Donelson he was taken to Camp Douglas and retained seven mouths, but at last was exchanged. At the surrender of Franklin he was again captured and taken to the same prison, where he remained five mouths. He was wounded twice, once in the head and once in the left side, but not seriously. In 1865 he returned home and bought thirty acres southwest of Adams Station, where he located and has since resided. He is a Democrat in politics and he and wife are worthy members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
George H. Whitehead was born where he now resides March 20, 1820, and is a son of Robert and Merilla (Martin) Whitehead, born in North Carolina and Tennessee in 1774 and 1783, respectively. The father came to Robertson County, Tenn., in his youth. Here he married and purchased property. He died in 1832 and the mother in 1838. George H. was left an orphan at an early age. After his parents' [p.1202] death he resided on the home place one year and then went to Clarksville and engaged as clerk in a general merchandise store. One year later he returned to his birthplace, and November 24, 1844, he wedded Adaline Gardner, daughter of Joshua and Mary (Polk) Gardner. The mother's father being first cousin to ex-President Polk. Mrs. Whitehead was born February 8, 1830, and became the mother of five children: only Robert H., now living. Mr. Whitehead is a prosperous farmer, and after making many changes of residence, located on 260 acres of land near Turnersville, where he has since resided. His wife died February 1, 1864, and January 4, 1870, he married Lou Pickering, who died November 24, 1884. For his third wife Mr. Whitehead married Sally Murphy November 10, 1885, daughter of Elias and Nancy (Williams) Murphy. She was born October 30, 1854, and in her younger days taught school twelve years, and was considered an excellent educator. In 1882 Mr. Whitehead's dwelling house caught fire and was consumed; he immediately erected another. He is a Democrat in politics.
J. S. Williams, farmer, is a son of William and Mary (Hatcher) Williams, and was born in Tennessee December 16, 1829. The parents were born in North Carolina and Tennessee, in 1805 and 1808, and died in 1835 and 1876, respectively. The father came to Tennessee in his youth and followed farming. After his death the mother again married. Our subject was reared by his paternal grandfather with whom he remained until twenty years of age. He then began farming on his own responsibility, and February 23, 1853, married Mariah Northington, born December 13, 1833, daughter of Samuel and Sarah (Walton) Northington. Mr. and Mrs. Williams became the parents of four children, only two now living: Edward W. and Thomas. Edward married Ida Pegram, of St. Louis, Mo., and is farming the home place. Thomas married Virginia Pegram (sister of his brother's wife), and lives at Port Royal merchandising. Mr. Williams is a good business man and has been quite successful in his agricultural pursuits. He owns 500 acres of land under good cultivation on which are good buildings. In politics he is conservative but rather favors Democratic principles. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity, and his wife of the Missionary Baptist Church.
Drury Wilson, an enterprising farmer of the Third District of Robertson County, was born in Davidson County, Tenn., December 10, 1827. He is one of a large family of fourteen children of Elisha and Sallie J. (Hurt) Wilson, both natives of North Carolina. The father was born in the year 1800. By occupation he was a farmer, living at the time of his marriage in Davidson County and in that year, 1832, removing to Robertson [p.1203] County, where he ended his days, his death occurring in 1873, having reached the ripe old age of three score ten and three. The mother was three years younger than the father, her birth being in the year 1803. She preceded her husband to the grave ten years, being a subject of death's inevitable call in the year 1863. Drury spent twenty-three years of his life under parental guidance, receiving only a common school education. His marriage ceremony was solemnized in 1849, uniting him to Elizabeth Doris, who was of the family of S. L. and Nancy Doris. Mrs. Wilson was born in this county, in 1829, and she is the mother of four children by this union, viz.: James W., E. Henry, Osten and Lulu B. Mr. Wilson owns 118 acres of land where he is engaged in the pursuit of farming. He is a Democrat in politics, and a member in good standing in the Missionary Baptist Church.
James H. Woodard, farmer and distiller, was born April 28, 1832, in Robertson County, and is the son of Hon. Wiley and Elizabeth (Henry) Woodard. The father was of English origin, a native of Tennessee, born in 1810, and a farmer and distiller by occupation. He was married in 1829, and moved on the old home place, where he became a very successful farmer, owning at one time upward of 2,000 acres. He had considerable political influence, being elected to the Legislature in 1849, and again in 1851. He was known throughout the county as Col. Woodard. He died October 28, 1877. The mother was of Irish-Scotch origin, born in Tennessee December 11, 1811, and is still living. Our subject received a fair education in the county schools, and in 1866 entered into partnership with J. W. Bowling in the distillery business, but soon dissolved partnership and erected a distillery four miles east of Springfield on his own responsibility, and from that day to the present time has conducted that business with evident success. In 1877 he married Nannie L. Draughon, daughter of Dr. George E. and Tabitha (Couts) Draughon. Mrs. Woodard was born February 15, 1849, in Tennessee, and to her union with Mr. Woodard were born these children: Coutie Warren, born January 13, 1880, and James Draughon, born September 28, 1882, and died January 19, 1886. Mr. Woodard has a fine farm of 500 acres, and besides this a house and lot in Springfield. He is one of Robertson County's best business men. He is a Democrat in politics, and he and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
Daniel Woodard, wholesale liquor dealer and distiller of Springfield, was born June 26, 1836, in Robertson County, Tenn., and is the son of Hon. Wiley and Elizabeth (Henry) Woodard. For sketch of parents see biography of James H. Woodard. The grandfather of our subject [p.1204] was a native of Edgecombe County, N. C., and left his native State in 1792, and came to Robertson County, Tenn., where his career ended in 1836. He was one of the first settlers of Robertson County. The subject of this sketch was reared on the farm, and received his education in the country schools, and in addition he attended the Bethel College at Russellville, Ky., for two years. He worked for his parents until thirty-one years of age, and November 18, 1869, was wedded to Julia Young, daughter of F. G. and Missouri Young. Mrs. Woodard was born in Robertson County, Tenn., in 1846, and by her union with Daniel Woodard became the mother of these children: Wiley, Josephine and Florence, twins; Frank, Mary, Elizabeth, Lulu, Daniel and an infant girl. After Mr. Woodard's marriage he lived in the house with his parents for seven years, after which he erected himself a house on part of the old home place, into which he moved, and where he has since resided. In 1879 Mr. Woodard commenced distilling whisky on his own responsibility, and has continued in the business from that day to the present. He is an honest, straightforward man in all his dealings. In polities he is very conservative, always voting for principle and not for party. In his early life he was a Whig, casting his presidential vote for John Bell.
M. D. Woodard, a prominent farmer, was born February 5, 1846, in Robertson County, Tenn., and is a son of James, Jr., and Amanda (Porter) Woodard. The father, James, Jr., was born February 25, 1814, in Robertson County, and was the son of William Woodard, who was a native of North Carolina. James lived in Robertson County at the time of his marriage, which occurred March 26, 1840. He settled near Springfield, bought 130 acres and cultivated the soil until 1858, when he sold out and bought his father's farm, where our subject now lives. James Woodard died October 7, 1861. The mother was born July 22, 1822, in Robertson County, Tenn. About 1848 she became an invalid, and has remained in very poor health from that time to the present. The subject of our sketch was reared at home, receiving his education in the country schools. His school days were few, owing to the death of his father and the helplessness of his mother. He being the oldest boy, the management of the farm devolved upon his shoulders, which proved equal to the task. He was eager to learn, and by his self application obtained quite a good business education. February 14, 1865, he married Polk L. Johnson, daughter of William H. and Charity (Morris) Johnson. Mrs. Woodard was born November 28, 1845, in Robertson County, Tenn., and by her union with Mr. Woodard became the mother of these children: James H., William J., Thomas M., Eunice R., Bessie C. and Harry H. Mr. Woodard owns the old original home place of 270 acres, which has [p.1205] been in the Woodard family for the past forty-six years. In 1864 Mr. Woodard erected a distillery, which he ran for some time, but at last, in 1868, he abandoned it and took charge of the distillery of John Woodard, over which he has had control nearly ever since. In politics Mr. Woodard votes for the principle more than for party. In August, 1876, he was elected magistrate of the Ninth District. His wife is a member of the Missionary Baptist Church.
Meredith Woodard, a farmer of Robertson County, was one of a family of six children whose parents were Kichen H. and Martha (Pope) Woodard, natives of North Carolina. The father was born in 1792, his whole life-time being spent in the noble pursuit of farming. When but four years old, in 1796, he was brought to this county, where death received him from the living November 26, 1855. The mother's birth was in 1800, and her death was mourned in 1877. Meredith was born on Christmas 1828, and his early life to the age of twenty, was with his parents, receiving only a common or limited education, as the schools of his day afforded only moderate advantages to him. In 1848 he was married to Sarah Woodard, daughter of Thomas and Winneford Woodard. The wife was born in Robertson County December 30, 1830. The result of Mr. Woodard's married life has been five children: Cephas, Lee, Ellen, wife of Pinckney Gunn; Thomas R. and Neicy. Mr. Woodard bought 100 acres of land in 1851, and then afterward followed farming successfully. He is now owner of 500 acres and also owns ten acres near Nashville. In politics he is a Democrat. He is a member of the Missionary Baptist Church and a respectable citizen of Robertson County.
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