BIOGRAPHICAL DIRECTORY OF TENNESSEE GENERAL ASSEMBLY: McMINN 1819-1969.

"Elijah Hurst (1785-1845) was elected to the 17th, 19th from McMinn, and 21st General Assemblies for Monroe County, with dates of 1827-1829, 1831-1833, and 1835-1837; no party labels in the first two sessions but was classed as a Whig in 1835. Born in Shenandoah County, Va. October 9, 1785; son of John and Nancy Hurst. Extent of schooling not determined. Married at Big Spring, Claiborne County, July 28 1808, to Mary Lane, native of Washington County and Daughter is Isaac and Sarah (Russell) Lane; children: Russell R., John Lane, Jemima, and Sarah Ann. Engaged in farming at Big Spring, Mouse Creek, present Niota, McMinn County. One of the first commissioners of the town of Athens, and is said to have suggested the name of Athens for the county seat. In the War of 1812, enlisted 1814 as Private under Captain Hunter, Claiborne County Regt. Tenn. Militia. Member of Tennessee Legislature House Committee on Internal Improvements, which on November 21, 1835 introduced (through A. Anderson of Jefferson County.) 

'A Bill providing for a General System of Internal Improvements in the State of Tennessee.' The Report of the House Committee accompanying this bill highly favored construction of railroads. This well-prepared and persuasive report undoubtedly helped secure Legislative approval of the Acts chartering the LaGrange and Memphis Rail Road in December 1835, and the Hiwassee Rail Road Company on January 30, 1836. Member of the Baptist Church. Died at Big Spring May 20, 1845; buried in churchyard of Big Spring Baptist Church. Brother-in-law of Russell Land, sometime member of the Tennessee Assembly."

See "McMinn County and Its People" for related articles.
 

Transcribed by: Bill Bigham