Oliver P. Butler (deceased), a merchant and farmer, was born in 1820, in North Carolina, and died at his home, seven and a half miles northeast of Gallatin in 1885. He was of Scotch descent, one of six children. He came to Tennessee at an early day with his parents, and settled at a point now known as Bracken, Tenn. He was a merchant at Fountain Head several years, and afterward engaged in farming at the same place. He had a complete and thorough medical education, but never practiced. In 1854 he married Mary Ann, daughter of Henry Sarver, of Fountain Head. To them were born two sons: Wm. F., who resides in Sumner County, on the homestead, and John H., agent of the Adams Express Company at Kansas City, Mo. Mrs. Butler died about 1875. In 1879 our subject wedded Mrs. Susan M. (Brown) Parker, daughter of George T. and Amanda C. Brown, who resided in east fork of Bledsoe Creek, eleven miles northeast of Gallatin. They were formerly of Virginia. Mrs. Butler was born on the farm now owned by Colby Chenault, eight miles northeast of Gallatin. By her former marriage there are three children: Clare, Washington T. and John R. Our subject was one of the most prosperous and successful farmers of the country. His education was secured chiefly by his own efforts. When he began life, he was the possessor of $1 but by energy and good judgment, amassed considerable wealth and valuable property. At one time he paid a security debt of $15,000 dollars. He was an enterprising, worthy citizen, well known and universally respected. He and his first wife were members of the church to which Mrs. Butler, William and John also belong.