Source:  Goodspeed’s History of Lawrence, Wayne, Perry, Hickman, and Lewis Counties Tennessee, published 1886

Alexander T. Dobbins (deceased) was born in Limestone County, Ala., September 15, 1815, and was a prominent and successful planter. He was one of three children of David and Martha Dobbins, who were born in North Carolina, and after their marriage moved to Alabama, where they resided a few years. They then came to Tennessee, and here our subject acquired such education as could be obtained at that early period. He at one time owned and managed three mercantile houses, one in Center Star, Ala., one in Lexington, Ala., and one at his home of Appleton, Tenn., and his business career was marked with wonderful success. He dealt extensively in stock, besides superintending his extensive plantation. He was a man of generous and benevolent disposition and contributed liberally to all enterprises for the public weal. He was never under the influence of intoxicating liquor, nor indulged in the use of tobacco or profane language. He died of cancer, July 30, 1884. He was three times married. His first wife, Zilpha McMasters, bore him five children, four of whom are living: James P., John J., Favor A., and Elizabeth Calladonia. Their mother was born April 19, 1824, and died December 15, 1856. In 1859 Mr. Dobbins married Nancy C. Cox and five children were born to them: Zilpha M. (Widow of William Couch), George W., William P., Martha Camilla and Robert T. Mrs. Dobbins was born July 14, 1828, and died October 28, 1870. November 7, 1871, Mrs. Mary J. (Hammond) Powell became his wife. She was born in Lawrence County April 22, 1833 [for biography of her family see sketch of G. W. Hammond], and resides on a fine farm of 525 acres, and is assisted by her step-sons in raising the cereals and live stock.

FamilySearch Tree profile:  https://www.familysearch.org/tree/person/details/KLB6-BQZ

---

This biographical sketch was transcribed by Reita Jones Burress and posted on-line by Jane N. Powell on September 10, 1998, with the following caveat:

Not having a hard copy to proof read, errors will probably occur in the following document. Reita and I will correct them to the original Goodspeed from time to time. Thank you for your patience.

If you have corrections or wish to provide more information about the individual, please contact us (link in menu).