The career of Ben B. Gillespie, of Gallatin, Tennessee, presents a striking example of enterprise, industry and integrity, conducing to eminent success. Reared to the work of the farm, he has continued his operations along agricultural lines to such good effect that today he is the owner of a handsome property in Sumner County, and is known as one of the leading Hereford cattle breeders in the state. Mr. Gillespie was born in Sumner County, Tennessee, February 1, 1860, and is a son of Richard G. and Susan C. (Harris) Gillespie.
The Gillespie family was founded in America during the middle of the eighteenth century by one James Gillespie, who came to this county from Scotland. From him descended Jacob Gillespie, the grandfather of Ben B., who was born in North Carolina, and came to Tennessee at an early date. He served in the War of 1812, under General Jackson, was known as a mighty hunter, and eventually entered land from the government and spent the rest of his life in farming in Tennessee, dying full of years and in the possession of a handsome competency. Richard G. Gillespie was born in Sumner County in 1826, and spent his entire life in agricultural pursuits, being exceedingly successful in his operations and accumulating 1,400 acres of land. He was one of the founders of the First National Bank of Gallatin, and a director for years, and all movements of a progressive nature could depend upon his support. He was an enthusiastic member of the A. F. & A. M., and in his political views was a stalwart Democrat. His death occurred in March, 1903. Mr. Gillespie married Susan C. Harris, who was born in Sumner County in 1833, daughter of Bright and Sallie (Walton) Harris, natives of North Carolina. Mr. Harris was a stone mason by trade, and made his way to Kentucky, and then to Tennessee, with a kit of tools on his shoulder, but lived to attain to eminent success. Mrs. Gillespie survives her husband and lives with her son, Ben., who was the fourth of her six children. She is a woman of many Christian virtues, and has been a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church all of her life.
Ben B. Gillespie received his education in the public schools of Sumner County, following which he attended the University of Tennessee, at Knoxville. On his return to the home farm he resumed agricultural pursuits, which he has followed ever since, and is now the owner of a well-cultivated property of 300 acres. Mr. Gillespie has given his attention during late years to the breeding of thoroughbred Hereford cattle, making a specialty of traveling all over the fair circuit. The year 1912 was a most successful one, as he returned to his farm without an animal, whereas he had started out with a large herd. His animals bring top prices, and a long list of ribbons testify eloquently to their success as prize winners. About forty head are raised annually, all pure breed, and many of these are disposed of through mail orders. Mr. Gillespie is known as an excellent judge of stock, and his advice is often sought, and freely given, in matters pertaining thereto. During a long experience, he has come in contact with men in every walk of life, and the high esteem in which he is universally held, gives evidence of his integrity in business matters.
In November, 1887, Mr. Gillespie was united in marriage with Anna Lou McGabock, daughter of John McGabock, a retired farmer of Scotch-Irish descent, who is now living in Nashville. Mr. and Mrs. Gillespie have had two children: Nellie and Frank W., both living at home. Mrs. Gillespie is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. Gillespie has shown some interest in fraternal work, being a member of the Loyal Order of Moose. In his political belief he is a Democrat. He is at this time steward in the Methodist Episcopal Church, and for more than a quarter of a century has served as superintendent of the Sunday school.
