City: Memphis
GODWIN, John Robert, retired banker; born Cumberland Co., N. C., Nov. 19, 1830; English-Scotch descent; son of Handy and Mary (McQueen) GODWIN; father’s occupation, farmer; educated in the local schools of Shelby Co., Tenn., and Male Academy of Raleigh, Tenn.; in early life engaged in farming, later entered the mercantile business; married Mary Frances MULLINS, Nov. 15, 1859; member DeSoto lodge F. & A. M., Memphis, Tenn., I. O. O. F., former member of Cotton Exchange 20 years, and member of American Banker’s Assn. was president of Mercantile Bank for Tenn. 10 years; Democrat; elected to Tenn. Legislature 1893; served sixteen years as trustee of Western Hospital, Bolivar, Tenn.; served eight years as park commissioner of city of Memphis, and member of first park board; at present he is member of State Executive Committee of American Red Cross; served in C. S. A. under Price, and in Capt. Jackson’s company; former president of Memphis Street Railway Co., one year; president Gayoso Oil Co., three years; spent years 1852-56 in California Gold Mining Camps; large landholder in Shelby Co., Tenn., also has real estate interest in Memphis city property, is at present engaged in managing personal estate; member of M. E. church, South.
