Goodspeed Biographies of Wilson County, Tennessee

THE GOODSPEED HISTORY OF WILSON COUNTY, TENNESSEE
BIOGRAPHICAL APPENDIX
(originally published 1886)

submitted by William C. Colley Jr.
source: Woodward & Stinson Printing Co. Edition, Reprint 1971
For noncommercial use only.

CONTENTS:  (Palmer - Young)




    JOHN PALMER, one of the old settlers of Wilson County, Tenn., was born in that State April 13, 1804, and is the eldest of thirteen children born to William and Sarah (Rankins) Palmer. The father was of English extraction, born in North Carolina in 1777, and immigrated to Tennessee in 1804. At the time of his marriage he was living in Sumner County, Tenn., and followed the occupation of a farmer during his entire life. He died in Wilson County in 1858. The mother was born in North Carolina, in 1782. and died in Wilson County, Tenn., in 1859. The subject of this sketch passed his early life in assisting on the farm and in securing an education. In 1826 he was married to Mary Reese, daughter of Thomas B. and Margaret Reese. Mrs. Palmer was born in Wilson County in 1803, and by her union with Mr. Palmer became the mother of five children: Margaret A. (wife of H. W. Robb), Louisa (wife of J. S. Chambers), Richard H., Henry Clay and Ella. In 1828 he bought 154 acres of land in Wilson County, where he commenced the occupation of farming, and is at present the owner of 1,600 acres of land, the principal part being in Wilson County. Mr. Palmer is one of Wilson County's oldest citizens. By his energy, industry and close application to business he has accumulated gradually from year to year and at present is one of the wealthiest farmers in the county. He is always obliging and kind to the poor, and is highly esteemed as an honest and useful citizen. He is a Democrat in politics and a member of the Christian Church.

    THOMAS A. PARTLOW, chairman of the Wilson County Court, was born September 5, 1825. He received his education in the Gladesville school, and remained with his parents until twenty-two years old. May 19, 1847, he wedded Margaret Williamson, a native of Wilson County, born in August, 1825, and the daughter of Thomas Williamson. To our subject and wife was born one child, Cloe. After marriage Mr. Partlow located near the old home and followed agricultural pursuits. January 20, 1859, his wife died, and in 1863 our subject married May Ann Robins, who lived only eighteen months after marriage. In September, 1866. our subject was again married to Martha E. Wray, a native of Wilson County, born April 2, 1836, and the daughter of William Wray. To Mr. and Mrs. Partlow were born four children: William A.. James R., Natlie M. and Haywood R. In 1865 Mr. Partlow moved to the Twenty-second District, and previous to this, in 1840, he had learned the tanner and currier's trade, which he carried on for some years. In 1861 he enlisted in Company G, State guards. He took an active part in the battles of Lexington, Oak Hill and Springfield. In 1865 he came home, and in the fall of the same year enlisted again, and was with Gen. Morgan until he made his famous raid through Kentucky, Indiana and Ohio, after which he returned home. Our subject is the son of Thomas and Cloe (Hooker) Partlow. The father was of French descent, born in 1796 in South Carolina, and was a farmer by occupation, owning at one time 513 acres. He was a soldier in the war of 1812, and fought in the battle of "The Horse Shoe Bend." The mother was of German descent, born in 1797 in North Carolina, and died in November, 1876. Mr. Partlow has always taken a very active part in public education. He is a Democrat, and he and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church South.

    THOMAS PHILLIPS, a farmer of the Eighteenth District of Wilson County, Tenn., was one of nine children and born June 10, 1826. He was educated in the district schools and reared on a farm. November 15, 1848, he wedded Miss Henrietta Henderson, daughter of Preston and Dorothea (Teague) Henderson. Mrs. Phillips was born January 11, 1882, and became the mother of the following children: H. A., William P., David B., Bettie (wife of John Bass), Mary D. (wife of Samuel Ashworth), Sally E. (wife of Andrew Short), Laura J., Minnie, T. W., John M. (deceased), Ada, Mattie and Eugene. Mr. Phillips resided with his parents until he was twenty-two years of age. He then purchased 105 acres of land which he has since increased to 165 acres, and also owns 112 acres of land in the Seventeenth District. He served as constable two years, and six years as magistrate. He is conservative in politics and was strongly opposed to secession. He and wife are members of the Baptist Church. His parents were David and Mary (Waters) Phillips, who were born in Wilson County in 1794 and 1802, and died in 1846 and 1873, respectively. The father was a farmer and a soldier in the war of 1812.

    HARDIN PHILLIPS, merchant, of Cherry Valley, Tenn., was born in Wilson County May 11, 1848, one of nine children of Josiah and Malinda (Bass) Phillips. The father was of English descent, born in Pennsylvania in 1800 and followed farming through life. His death occurred in Wilson County November 15, 1868. The mother was born about 1818 and died December 23, 1882. Our subject was educated in the common schools, and October 15, 1868, he married Miss Lizzie Pendleton, daughter of Lewis and Nancy (Moore) Pendleton. Mrs. Phillips was born April 22, 1851, and to her and her husband were born three children, two now living: Josiah, Hattie and Bessie (deceased.) At the age of eighteen Hardin began working for himself, and in 1869 was elected constable, an office which he held for six successive years, and then became associated with Henderson & Co., merchants, of Cherry Valley, continuing until 1877, when he and Dr. Grantstaff became partners, but in about one year their building and goods was consumed by fire. A short time after Mr. Phillips began business for himself and has met with flattering success. He is a Democrat in politics, and he and wife are members of the Christian Church.

    HON. S. S. PRESTON, an old citizen and farmer of the Twentieth District, was born November 22, 1827, in Bedford County, Va., and is the son of John and Martha (Early) Preston. The father was born about 1793 in Bedford County, Va., and was a farmer by occupation. At the time of his marriage he was living in the Old Dominion, but in 1835 he immigrated to Wilson County, Tenn., where he died in 1853. He was a soldier in the war of 1812, and was the father of ten children, six of whom are living. The mother was born in 1799, in Bedford County, Va., and died in 1850 in Wilson County. Our subject was educated in his native county and in Wilson County. At the age of twenty-one he left home and went to Huntsville, Ala., and hired as a clerk in a dry goods store, where he remained for nearly three years. January 12, 1853, he married Ann M. Keyes, a native of Alabama, born June, 1835, and the daughter of James H. Keyes, of Mississippi. To our subject and wife were born seven children: James H., John F., Laura (wife of William T. Watson, of Texas), S. S., Jr., Ella, Alice and Mattie. During the late war our subject enlisted in Company G, Forty-fifth Tennessee Regiment, and was made captain of his company. He took an active part in the battles of Shiloh, but soon after, on account of ill health, was discharged and returned home. Mr. Preston owns 260 acres, and is one of Wilson County's much respected citizens. January, 1872, he was elected as chairman of the county court, and in November of the same year he was elected to the lower house of the State Legislature. In October, 1882, he was again elected chairman of the county court, which position he held for three successive years. During the years 1884-85 he was a resident of Lebanon, where he lived for the purpose of educating his children.

    G. A. PURSLEY is a son of William B. and Sophia (Rutherford) Pursley, and was born September 13, 1837, in Sumner County, Tenn. The father was of Irish descent, and was born in Tennessee in 1802, and was a tanner and currier by trade, but later devoted his time to agricultural pursuits. He came to Wilson County in 1839, where he became quite a prosperous farmer, owning 500 acres of land at one time. He died May 16, 1880. He was twice married, his first wife being Harriet Johnston. The mother was of Scotch-Irish descent, born in 1814 and died in 1885. Our subject came to Wilson County when only two years old. He attended Irving College in Warren County, and the Cumberland University in Lebanon. September 22, 1857, he married Ann Vance, daughter of Ed R. and Mary Vance. Mrs. Pursley was born November 11, 1840, and became the mother of seven children: Hattie (wife of J. R. Gollithan), Minnie (wife of J. M. Hannah), Lizzie A., Alice M., Brice B., Edwin V. and Philip H. Mr. Pursley was first the owner of sixty acres of land, but by industry and economy is now the possessor of 305 acres. He has been a life-long Democrat, and cast his first presidential vote for Stephen A. Douglas. September 10, 1861, he enlisted in Company B, Fourth Regiment Tennessee Cavalry, and after the reorganization of the army was appointed second lieutenant of his company, but returned home in the summer of 1862, owing to ill health. He was arrested and kept a prisoner at Murfreesboro for about three months. He belongs to the Good Templars, and he and wife are church members.

    JAMES H. RAGLAND, resident of Lebanon, Tenn., born in 1845, and is a son of Dr. Hardin and Amelia A. (Jones) Ragland. Hardin Ragland was born in Tennessee in 1812, son of Pettis Ragland, of Virginia. Hardin was educated in Campbell Academy and received his medical education in the University of Lexington, Ky. After his marriage he located in Cherry Valley, where he continued to practice until 1878, when he gave up active work and came to Lebanon. He had a thorough knowledge of his profession and for many years was the leading physician in his section of the country., and was a much respected citizen. He died February 6, 1882. The mother was of Scotch descent, born in Wilson County in 1806. She died December 13, 1885. They were the parents of three children, two of whom are living: Mrs. Hattie Page and our subject, who was reared and educated in his native county and White Springs, Davidson County. When sixteen years of age he enlisted in Company C, Fourth Tennessee Regiment, and was in the battles of Chickamauga, Bentonville, Knoxville, Perryville, and numerous lesser engagements. After the surrender of Richmond he returned home, and August 10, 1870, he married Agnes A. Clark, daughter of L. J. Clark. Mrs. Ragland was born in l852, and is the mother of two children: Hardin and Clark. Soon after returning from the war he, his father and W. S. Phillips kept a general merchandise store at Cherry Valley for three years. He then sold goods at Tucker's Cross Roads for two years, and about 1879 he and W. G. Page established a family grocery and hardware store in Lebanon. Our subject has since sold his interest to P. Y. Hill, and has been speculating in notes and securities. He is a Democrat. His wife died in 1878 and his sister has since been keeping house for him.

    JOHN H. RAMSAY, farmer, was born in 1828 in Sumner County, Tenn., and is a son of William and Diana (Austin) Ramsay. The father was a native of the State of Virginia. and in early life worked at the hatter's trade. In late years he followed agricultural pursuits, having purchased upward of 100 acres in Sumner County, where he lived until his death, which occurred in 1850. The mother was born in Sumner County about 1816. After the death of her husband she lived on the old place for some time, but at present she is living with her daughter, Polly Hobson, who is a resident of the Fifth District. Our subject received his education in the county schools, and at the age of fifteen left the parental roof and served as an apprentice to a house carpenter, working thus for two and a half years; after which he worked on his own responsibility. In 1853 he bought 188 acres in the Third District of Wilson County, where he located and where he has since resided. The same year Lucinda Tarver became his wife, but died the following year. In 1855 he married Roxana Tompkins, who died February 5, 1880, and in October, 1881, he married Mary C. Ramsay, a native of Indiana, born January 2, 1858, and a daughter of John and Rebecca Isom. To Mr. and Mrs. Ramsay were born two children: William H. and Ella Myrtle. Mrs. Ramsay has one child, John I., by her first husband. Mr. Ramsay has been a hard working and an industrious man. By his energy and good management he now owns 336 acres of good land. During the late war he was agent, assisting the Commissary Department in supplying food and clothing to the boys in gray. In politics he advocates the principles of Democracy. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity, and he and wife are worthy members of the Baptist Church.

    J. M. RICE, an enterprising farmer, was born September 19, 1859, in Rutherford County, Tenn., and is one of a family of eight children, born to J. H. and T. A. (Welsh) Rice. The father was born June, 1837, in Wilson County, Tenn., and was a merchant, which occupation he followed for twenty-five years. About this time he felt a strong desire to preach the gospel, which inclination he followed. At the same time he carried on the merchandising business. The mother was born in April, 1838. in Wilson County, Tenn., and is the daughter of Mitchell Welsh. Our subject was reared in Rutherford County, and received a good practical education in the country schools. February 9, 1882, he led to the altar Jeffella Brett, a native of Wilson County, born May 16, 1862, and the daughter of Alexander Brett. Our subject and wife's married life was happily blessed by the birth of one child, Clide Alexander. Mr. Rice is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church South, and is a Democrat in politics. Mrs. Rice is a member of the Baptist Church.

    G. L. ROBINSON, M. D., of Lebanon, Tenn., was born October 8, 1821, in Smith County, one of eight children of Stephen and Mary (Lancaster) Robinson, who were of English origin. The father was born in Virginia in 1778, and was a farmer by occupation. He came to Tennessee in his youth and his parents were among the very first settlers of Middle Tennessee. He died in January, 1846. He was a soldier in the war of 1812, and was twice married, being the father of nine children. The mother was born June 6, 1798, in Tennessee, and died the same year as her husband. Our subject's early education was acquired in the common schools, and served in the Mexican war in Joseph E. Thomas' Tennessee Cavalry, serving twelve months. After his return he began studying under Dr. G. M. Alsop, of Statesville, and in 1848 entered the medical department of the Louisville (Ky.) University and graduated as an M. D. in 1850. He practiced his profession in Statesville, Alexandria, and in 1854 came to Lebanon, where he has since resided. September 7, 1851, he married Emily D. Anderson, daughter of Frank Anderson; she died June 7, 1875, leaving one child, Churchwell, who died in 1877. In 1878 the Doctor married Valeria Huddleston, daughter of Winston and Mary B. Huddleston. She was born January 21, 1839, and she and the Doctor are members of the Christian Church.

    HON. R. C. SANDERS, clerk and master of the Chancery Court of Wilson County, Tenn., was born July 23, 1826, in Sumner County, and is one of three children of James and Letitia (Carey) Sanders. The father was born in North Carolina, in 1779, and in youth came with his parents to Sumner, Tenn. ,where he followed the occupation of farming. He was married to Letitia Carey in 1825, and died in 1861. He was twice married and was the father of ten children. The mother was born in Sumner County, Tenn., in 1800, and died April 16, 1871. Our subject graduated from Enon College and for one session was a student in the law department of the Cumberland University at Lebanon. In 1847 he began teaching school and continued that and farming until 1849, when he became principal of the Smithfield (Tenn.) High School. continuing until 1853. December 23 of that year he wedded Rhoda A. Reeves, daughter of John and Sarah Reeves. Mrs. Sanders was born February 17, 1836, in Smith County, Tenn., and became the mother of the following children: Nora, John C. and Nat. In 1854 Mr. Sanders was chosen superintendent of the high school at Carthage, Tenn., and in 1857 was elected to represent Smith County in the State Legislature. After his return to Carthage upon the adjournment of the Legislature, he again began the study of law, and in 1859 was admitted to the bar and practiced his profession until the breaking out of the war. In June, 1861, he enlisted in Company F, Twenty-fifth Regiment Tennessee Infantry, and was immediately appointed its adjutant and served until the re-organization of the army at Corinth, when he was elected lieutenant-colonel of the same regiment. He had command of the regiment for several months, the colonel, S. S. Stanton, being absent. He and Col. Stanton, owing to trouble with the brigadier-general in command, resigned, and returned to Middle Tennessee and raised another regiment (infantry), the Eighty-fourth Tennessee; this was consolidated with the Twenty-eighth Tennessee Infantry. Col. Sanders was appointed quarter-master and acted as such until the close of the war, receiving his parole at Washington, Ga., June 9, 1865. Col. Sanders, although quartermaster, went into the ranks as a private, and took part in the capture of Dalton, Ga., in the battle of Spring Hill and Franklin, and in the engagements around Nashville. After the close of the war he resumed the practice of law and formed a partnership with Judge Cantrell, of Lebanon, with whom he remained eight years. In 1874 Col. Sanders moved to Louisville, Ky., but after a two-years residence, returned to Tennessee and resided one year in Gallatin and then came to Lebanon. He and his son, John C., are partners in the practice of law, the latter being a graduate of the law department of the University of Louisville, Ky., and of the same department of the Cumberland University of Lebanon, Tenn. In 1881 Col. Sanders represented Wilson County in the lower house of the State Legislature. He was made chairman of the Committee of Claims and in 1883 was appointed to his present position. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity and he and his son constitute one of the leading law firms of the county.

    ERVIN K. SHANNON is a farmer of the Nineteenth District, of Wilson County, Tenn., and son of J. H. and Isabella (Braden) Shannon. He was born March 22, 1841, in the county where he now resides. His father was of Irish descent and was born December 19, 1803. When he was about twenty-five years of age he came to Tennessee. His parents died when he was quite young and he was reared by a man by the name of Shaker, with whom he learned the tanner's trade, and followed this occupation in Tennessee for about ten years. He then moved to a farm belonging to his wife. He was married about 1834, and became the father of seven children, five now living. He was a soldier in the late war and his death occurred in June, 1870. His widow died in 1876. Our subject resided with his parents until their respective deaths. He received his education in the district schools of the neighborhood, and in 1862, in company with his brother, assumed control of the tanning business, continuing about eight years. Since that time our subject has been engaged in farming, and owns the old homestead. He enlisted in the Forty-fourth Tennessee, Company C, and was in the battles of Shiloh and Perryville, Ky., and was wounded in the latter engagement and returned home. In politics he is a Democrat, and his wife is a member of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church.

    ALEX SHANNON, proprietor of a grocery and hardware store in Lebanon, Tenn., is a native of Wilson County, born in 1844, and is one of five children of J. H. and Isabella (Braden) Shannon. Alex Shannon was reared on his father's 180-acre farm. He was educated in the country schools, and December 22, 1870, was married to Maggie Holloway, daughter of Richard and Eunice (Shannon) Holloway. She was born in 1847 and is the mother of two living children: James R. and Nebar. In 1872 Mr. Shannon bought 146 acres of land and followed agricultural pursuits until 1882, when he sold out and removed to Lebanon and clerked in the hardware store of McClain Bros. for two years. Since November, 1885, he has been connected with J. K. Buchanan in the grocery and hardware business, and is doing well. Mr. Shannon is conservative in politics, and he and wife are members of the Christian Church.

    FINIS E. SHANNON, SR., one of the oldest citizens of District No. 22, and a prominent farmer, was born November 20, 1814, in Wilson County. He is the youngest child of Henry and Jane (Hayes) Shannon. The father was of Irish descent, born January 10, 1766, in Virginia and was a farmer by occupation. About 1795 he came to Davidson County but afterward removed to Wilson County where he died September 25, 1844. The mother was born March 22, 1772, in Virginia, and died December 10, 1832. in Wilson County. The subject of our sketch received his education mostly outside of the school-room. July 31,1838, he married Nancy Hearn, daughter of Milbry Hearn. Mrs. Shannon was born February 6, 1818, in Wilson County and by her marriage became the mother of two children: Norman P., who is a farmer, and Mary C., wife of James Doughty. After our subject's marriage he located on the old home place. In 1856 his wife died, and in the following year he married Rosanna A. Hunt, a native of Rutherford County, born in 1826, and the daughter of Samuel Hunt. To Mr. and Mrs. Shannon were born three children: Finis E., Texannah and Frusey. In 1861 he sold the old home place and bought land in District No. 22, where he is now living. He lost his second wife in 1862, and in 1867 he married E. J. O'Neal; she lived but a short time after marriage and December, 1868. he married Elizabeth J. Etherley, a native of Wilson County, born in 1829. Mr. Shannon is one of Wilson County's old citizens and has been quite successful, owning at the present time 500 acres of land. He has been a life-long Democrat casting his first vote for Martin Van Buren. He has also been an active business man, is obliging and courteous and is a good neighbor.

    REV. S. G. SHEPARD, an enterprising farmer, was born in 1830 in Wilson County; son of John and Frances G. (Graves) Shepard. The father was of Scotch descent, and was born about 1785 in Prince Edward County, Va. He was a teacher by profession, and in connection with this did farming. At the time of his marriage, which occurred in 1807, he was living in Wilson County. He was not permitted to live the time allotted to man, but was cut down in the prime of life. He died in 1835 with the cholera. The mother was of French origin, and was born in Virginia about 1800; she died in 1860. There were eight children born to them, four of whom are living. Our subject's grandfather, Samuel Shepard, was a soldier in the Revolutionary war, and was present at the surrender of Cornwallis, at Yorktown. About 1800 he immigrated to Wilson County, Tenn., where he settled and lived to an advanced age. He cast his first vote for George Washington, and his last for Henry Clay. Our subject received his education in the county schools, and at the breaking out of the late war he enlisted in Company G, Seventh Tennessee Infantry, Confederate States Army, and was made captain of his company. After the death of Gen. Hatton, May 31, 1862, our subject was appointed lieutenant-colonel of his regiment. He led his men in twenty battles, the leading ones being Seven Pines, seven days around Richmond, second Manassas, Sharpsburg, etc. At the close of the war he returned home, and August 3, 1865, married Mattie Major, a native of Wilson County; born in 1845, and the daughter of Samuel and Fanny (Chambers) Major. To our subject and wife were born four children: Samuel G., Alice, John and Agnes. After marriage our subject began farming, and now owns 800 acres, and is a well-to-do farmer. He is a Democrat in politics and a member of the Masonic fraternity. In 1870 he was elected as one of two representatives from Wilson County to assist in revising the constitution of the State of Tennessee. In 1872 he was elected as member to the State Legislature, and in the same year he was ordained as a Missionary Baptist minister. His ministerial duties have been principally confined to Wilson and Rutherford Counties. At present he has charge of four churches, three in Rutherford and one in Cannon County at Woodbury.

    J. R. SHORTER, proprietor of a livery and feed stable, at Lebanon, Tenn., was born in Wilson County in 1845, and is a son of James and Martha P. (Wyoone) Shorter, who were of Irish descent, born in Tennessee in 1815 and 1819, respectively. They were married about 1836. and tilled a farm of 200 acres until 1858, when they purchased a 150-acre farm. Here the father died in 1860, and the mother in August, 1884. Our subject only attended school about three months during his life. September 19, 1867, he lead to Hymen's altar Easter C. Graves, daughter of Lorenzo J. and Mary Graves. Mr. and Mrs. Shorter have three children: Lorenzo J., Susie and Robert. In 1869 Mr. Shorter came to Lebanon and established a retail liquor store, but in 1871 bought a family grocery store, continuing three years. He then farmed three years, and in 1877 returned to Lebanon, and with W. G. Swindell began keeping a livery and feed stable. A year later Samuel Golliday purchased Mr. Swindell's interest, and he in turn was bought out by J. W. Hamilton. Since 1883 Mr. Shorter has carried on the business alone. He keeps ten horses, nine single and six double vehicles, and runs a buss to each train, and has met with merited success. He is a member of the K. of H. and K. of P., and he and wife are members of the Baptist Church.

    W. H. SMITH, farmer, was born in Wilson County, Tenn., May 29, 1834, and is one of fifteen children born to James and Martha (Johnson) Smith. The father was a native of Virginia, born in 1796. He followed agricultural pursuits during his lifetime. He died in Wilson County in 1874. The mother was born in Kentucky in 1800, and died in Wilson County in 1853. The subject of this sketch was reared on the farm and educated in the schools of the county. In 1858 he wedded Lucy J. Johnson daughter of Berry and Miranda Johnson. Mrs. Smith was born in Wilson County, Tenn., in 1836, and by her union with Mr. Smith became the mother of seven children: Martha J., James B., Miranda E., William H., Eddie W., Emma and Bubie. In 1862 our subject bought 141 acres of 1and, and began tilling the soil; he added to his farm quite often and is at present the owner of 240 acres of good land. In 1881 Mrs. Smith died, and in 1883 he married Mary F. Williams. daughter of Elijah and Polly Williams. Mrs. Smith was born in Wilson County, Tenn., in 1849, and by her marriage with Mr. Smith she became the mother of
two children: Winfield and Lelia. In politics Mr. Smith is a Democrat.

    J. E. STRATTON, dry goods merchant of Lebanon, Tenn., was born February 27, 1842, son of Thomas J. and Caroline M. (Golladay) Stratton. J.E. Stratton was reared at home and was educated in the Cumberland University. In May, 1861, he enlisted in Company D, Seventh Regiment Tennessee Infantry Volunteers, and participated in all the battles of the Virginia campaign in 1861-62. He was severely wounded at the battle of Seven Pines. He was cared for in the house of the Misses Forbes, sisters of Col. Forbes, of Clarksville, Tenn. He resided for some time with his uncle, in Granada, Miss. In 1862, while in Kentucky, he was arrested by Federal troops, but after taking the oath of allegiance was released and remained in Kentucky until the fall of Richmond. March 24, 1864, he married Mary Grimes, who was born in 1842, in Kentucky, daughter of James and Fannie Grimes. To Mr. and Mrs. Stratton were born these children: James G., Thomas E. G. and Caroline May. In 1866 Mr. Stratton returned to Lebanon, where he was engaged in the general merchandise business with his father and brothers. He soon after went to Todd County, Ky., where he engaged in the same business three years and farmed six years. From 1873 to 1876 he was a druggist in Allensville, and at the latter date went to Nashville and established a merchant and tailor's establishment. In the fall of 1879 he returned to Lebanon, clerking until 1881, when he engaged in the dry goods business in the same room as that occupied by his father in 1865-66. In 1881 the building burned, and a year later he erected his present fine building. He is one of Lebanon's first merchants and citizens and is a member of the K. of P., and he and family are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church South.

    S. G. STRATTON. The Bank of Lebanon, Tenn., was organized in August, 1884, with a capital stock of $25,000, James Hamilton, president, and Thomas J. Stratton as cashier. In January, 1885, Mr. Stratton died, and S. G. Stratton, our subject, was chosen as his successor. He was born January 30, 1844, in Lebanon, and is one of five children of Thomas J. and Caroline M. (Golladay) Stratton. The father was born August 5, 1818, in Sumner County, Tenn., and was a resident of Lebanon at the time of his marriage, in May, 1838. He established a general merchandise store in Lebanon, but a few years later began dealing in dry goods only. He was engaged in the Florida war. His partners at different periods were Benjamin Ireland, Maj. Andrew Allison and lastly, before the war, Samuel Golladay. Mr. Stratton was a leading business man of Lebanon and an influential citizen. In 1870 he was elected cashier of the Bank of Wilson County, and he continued its cashier after it became the Second National Bank, continuing as such until August, 1884, when he was chosen cashier of the Bank of Lebanon, continuing until his death, in January, 1885. He was twice married and became the father of six children, his second wife being Fannie (Watkins) Helm. Our subject's mother died August 15, 1865. S.G. Stratton was educated in the Cumberland University. During the war he first attached himself to the Thirty-eighth Tennessee Infantry, under Col. Looney, of Memphis, and afterward enlisted in Capt. J. W. Britton's company, Fourth Tennessee Cavalry, and was in the service until the fall of 1864. November 9, 1865, he married Alice Fisher, who was born October 10, 1844, who bore him two children: Houston F. and Franceway C. Mr. Stratton was first after the war engaged in the mercantile business with his father, and afterward with R. Green. In 1872 he was appointed clerk of the circuit court, to fill an unexpired term, and was twice afterward elected and held the office until 1882. In 1881 he became engaged in the dry goods business, in the firm of J. E. Stratton & Co., and at present is one of the firm of J. T. Odum & Co. October 22, 1877, Mrs. Stratton died. and December 1. 1881, he married Leila M. Owen, born in 1861, in Talbot County, Ga., daughter of Sidney Owen. By this marriage he has one daughter, Mildred Owen, born February 2, 1883. Our subject succeeded his father as cashier of the Bank of Lebanon. In 1873 he was elected mayor of Lebanon, having served several years, before and after, in the city council. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity, Lebanon Lodge, No. 98, and has filled, among other offices, that of Worshipful Master, Most Excellent High Priest of the Chapter, Eminent Commander of the Commandery, and is a member of the K. of H and K. of P. He and wife belong to the Methodist Episcopal Church South.

    L. D. STROUD born in Wilson County, Tenn., Oct. 7, 1842, is one of eight children of O. B. and Lucie (Lester) Stroud who were born in Halifax County, Va.. and Wilson County, Tenn., May 2, 1803 and June 29, 1824, and died April 14, 1863, and March 11, 1875, respectively. They were married November 11, 1841. The mother was a daughter of Joshua Lester, founder of the Baptist Church at Smithfork, Tenn., and its pastor for thirty-seven years. Our subject received his education at what was known as the "Three Forks Institute'' and afterward attended the Mount Vernon Institute. When sixteen he entered the teachers' profession continuing until the breaking out of the war when he enlisted in Holton's Seventh Tennessee Infantry and participated in the battles of Seven Pines and Cedar Run; was wounded in the arm at the former battle and yet carries the ball in his shoulder. He was severely wounded at the latter battle and has never entirely recovered from its effects. After his return home he resumed teaching and paid off a debt of $300 which his father had contracted for his schooling. In 1877 he accepted the presidency of the Woodbury College for a period of two years, but ill health obliged him to abandon the profession entirely. March 13, 1865, he wedded Leathy A., daughter of John and Anna Sneed, born December 22, 1841, and has borne six children: Cornelia (Mrs. A. G. Penuel), Minnie (Mrs. R. B. Penuel), Angie, Nettie, Bernice and Garland. In February, 1884, Mr. Stroud took a trip to Mexico for a business house at Nashville, and while there acquired a thorough knowledge of the Spanish language. Mr. Stroud is the owner of 250 acres of fine land and his home is pleasantly and picturesquely situated. He is a Democrat in his political views and took an active part in State politics in 1879. He is a member of the I. O. O. F., and his wife belongs to the Baptist Church.

    A. SULLIVAN, an enterprising farmer and stock raiser of the Twenty-fourth District, was born March 22, 1815, in Wilson County, Tenn., and is one of a family of nine children born to A. and S. Sullivan. The father was born in Guilford County, N. C., and was a farmer by occupation. He married in his native State and immigrated to Wilson County and settled in the Twenty-fourth District, where he purchased 141 acres of land. He died in March, 1835. The mother was born in Guilford County, N. C., in 1775, and came to this county with her husband, where she remained until her death, which occurred in 1855. Our subject was reared in Wilson County, Tenn., and like the average country boy received his education in the common schools. June 16, 1839. he wedded Clerky Patterson, daughter of Elijah Patterson. The fruits of this union were three sons, only one of whom is living. One son was killed at Richmond and another at Corinth. Miss. Mr. Sullivan is the owner of 300 acres in the Twenty-fourth District, and by his affable and courteous manner has made many friends. He is a Democrat in politics.

    B. J. TARVER, attorney at law of Lebanon, was born in Warren County, N. C., and is one of two sons of Silas and Nancy (Harris) Tarver. The father was a Welshman by descent, anti was born in 1794 or 1795 in North Carolina. He was a farmer, and came to Tennessee in 1808 with his father, Benjamin Tarver, one of the pioneers of the county. After his marriage, in 1823, Silas located on a farm where Tucker's Gap is now situated, and there remained until his career ended in 1860. The mother was of English birth, born in North Carolina, and died in 1845. Our subject secured an academical education, and afterward entered the law department of Cumberland University, graduating in 1851. He has since practiced his profession, and has met with marked success. He commenced at the bottom round of the ladder, but by perseverance and knowledge of his profession he has steadily climbed upward in his profession until be ranks among the first of the Wilson County bar. In 1878 he was appointed judge of the chancery court of Tennessee, and held the office for one year. In 1875 he wedded Susan White, who was born in 1829, and a daughter of James D. White. Mr. and Mrs. Tarver are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church South.

    J. B. TARVER, farmer and resident of Tucker's Gap, was born June 14, 1835, in the house where he is now residing. He is the youngest son of a family of seven children, only two of whom are now living: our subject, and Judge B. J. Tarver, of Lebanon. Silas and Nancy (Harris) Tarver were their father and mother. Our subject received his education in the Cumberland University at Lebanon in the literary department. February 23, 1856, he married Lucy Hobson, daughter of Henry and Lucy (Tarver) Hobson. Mrs. Tarver was born August 2, 1837, in Wilson County, and by her union with Mr. Tarver she became the mother of six children: Mattie E,, A. Benjamin, John E., Walter A., Nannie and George. In 1853 our subject entered the law department of the Cumberland University, attending two sessions. In 1856 he went to Arkadelphia, Ark., and commenced his law practice, which he continued until the breaking out of the war. In February, 1862, he returned to his birth-place, where he has since lived engaged in agricultural pursuits. Mr. Tarver now owns 440 acres, and is an honest, enterprising and successful farmer. In polities he is a Democrat, but was at one time a Whig. He is a Good Templar, and he and family are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church South.

    WILLIAM B. TATUM, one of the prominent farmers of the Twenty-second District, was born in 1821, in Sumner County, Tenn., and is the son of Ira and Martha (Eddins) Tatum. The father was a native of North Carolina and a teacher by profession in his younger days, and later in life he followed farming. He was a soldier in the war of 1812, and died in 1825. The mother was born in North Carolina in about 1800, and died about 1872. Our subject at the age of seventeen commenced working at the tanner's trade, which he continued for four years. At the age of twenty-one he went to Macon, Tenn., and bought 130 acres and commenced farming on his own responsibility. In three years he returned to Wilson County, and in March, 1846, he wedded Sarah A. Goldston, a native of Wilson County, born in 1823, and a daughter of Eli and Elizabeth Goldston. To Mr. and Mrs. Tatum were born eight children: Martha E., A. Frank, Mary E., William A., Emily A., Thomas E., Edward L. and Ira J. About 1851 our subject bought 111 acres in the Twenty-second District, where he located and is now living. In connection with farming he carried on the tannery business for a period of twenty-five years. Mr. Tatum started in life as a poor boy, but by energy, economy and good management he now owns 440 acres. He is a Democrat in politics, and he and wife are members of the Christian Church.

    JAMES H. TAYLOR, one of the old settlers of Wilson County, was born in Tennessee, August 24, 1807, and is one of ten children born to Perrygan and Sarah (Wilson) Taylor. The father was of English descent, born in North Carolina in 1761. and came to Sumner County about 1800. He was a farmer by occupation, and at the time of his marriage was living in North Carolina. He died in Wilson County, Tenn., in 1826. The mother was of Irish descent, and was born in Maryland in 1764, She died in Wilson County. Tenn., in 1822,. At the age of twenty our subject left home; he had received a fair education at the county schools, and in 1827 Martha Hunter became his wife. She was born in Wilson County, Tenn., in 1810, and was the daughter of Isaac and Selina Hunter. To our subject and wife were born seven children: Caroline. Evaline, Lashophine, Leona (wife of R. C. Morris), Isaac, John and William. In 1832 Mr. Taylor bought 150 acres of land, and from that time to the present has added to his land from time to time, and now owns 262 acres, upon which he is at present living. In politics he is a Democrat, and he and wife are consistent members of the Cumberland Church.

    COL. R. E. THOMPSON, a citizen of Wilson County, Tenn., descended from the old Thompson, Cockrell, McNairy and Robertson families of Tennessee. Gen. James Robertson and John Cockrell were the first white men that ever stood on Capitol Hill. Col. Thompson was born at Cockrell's Springs, near Nashville, in 1822. He was partly educated in Nashville, and in 1840 came to Lebanon and finished his education at Cumberland University. He married Miss Mary E. Tolliver, the eldest daughter of Col. Zach Tolliver, of Lebanon, Tenn., by whom he has six living children--two sons and four daughters--all of whom are doing remarkably well. His youngest son, Lillard, is attorney-general of the Seventh Judicial Circuit. Col. Thompson is a lawyer and farmer, and is noted as a criminal lawyer, and defends nearly all the criminals in his section of the county, but refuses to prosecute, never having prosecuted a man, although offered large fees to do so. In politics he is a low-tax Democrat, and is opposed to taxing the people to pay the railroad debt. He has been seven or eight times elected to the State Legislature, three or four times to each branch, and took a very active part in common school education and in the cause of temperance. He is not a very zealous advocate of the four-mile law, and offered a bill, and got it passed, excluding intoxicating liquors from every place in the State, excepting Nashville. Knoxville and Memphis. but the supreme court decided it was unconstitutional. He is a bold and fearless advocate of the rights of the masses of the people and zealous of encroachments upon their rights by the monied corporations, consequently is often before the people, securing large majorities over very popular men. He still practices his profession, in which, together with other resources, yield him a competency in his old age. He is a Missionary Baptist in faith.

    WILLIAM T. THOMPSON, an enterprising farmer, was born August 13, 1846, in Wilson County, and is the son of George and Martha (Baird) Thompson. The father was of Irish descent, born October 17, 1822, in Wilson County, and is a farmer by occupation. His father, Moses Thompson, was born in 1782, in the State of North Carolina, and came to Wilson County at a very early date. He died in 1842. George Thompson lived in his native county at the time of his marriage, which, occurred November 11, 1845. He settled in the Nineteenth District, where he has since resided, moving only once since that time. He has lived on the farm where he now resides since 1851, and has been quite successful as a tiller of the soil, owning at the present time upward of 550 acres. The mother was born July 4, 1826, in Wilson County, and died July 12, 1878. Our subject is one of eight children who are living. He received his education in the country schools and February 6, 1868, wedded Fanny Martin, a native of Wilson County, born March 19, 1849. and the daughter of John Martin. To our subject and wife were born four children, three of whom are living: Emma, John B. and Fannie E. In 1869 he bought forty-five acres in the Twenty-first District, where he resided until 1877, when he bought 200 acres where he now resides. Mr. Thompson lost his wife August 5, 1876, and September 12 of the following year he married Lucy Logue, a native of Wilson County, born December 20, 1852. To this union were born four children: Samuel, Mattie, Nannie and Spurgen. Mr. Thompson is an enterprising business man, and now owns 382 acres. His wife has 120 acres in Davidson County. In politics our subject is very conservative, voting for principle and not for party. In connection with farming he has speculated in timber; has been employed several years by the Western Union Telegraph Company to furnish poles to them. He has also furnished Nashville with many telegraph poles.

    ED. L. VANCE. JR., junior member of the livery and feed stable of Johnson & Vance, of Lebanon, Tenn., is a son of Edward R. and Drucilla (Hearn) Vance, and was born in Wilson County November 28, 1859. The father is of Irish extraction, born in 1817, in Rutherford County, Tenn., and is a farmer by occupation. In 1837 he came to Wilson County, where he purchased 300 acres of land, and was married in 1839. He has been twice married and is the father of fifteen children. Our subject was educated in the schools near his home and in the Big Spring Seminary. At the age of eighteen years he left home and leased 396 acres of land, which he farmed two years, and the following three years worked on a tract of 400 acres of land in Davidson County. In 1884 he and  his brother, Joseph T., purchased the livery and feed stable of Orgain & Ragland, in Lebanon, but at the end of six months M. House became one of the proprietors. In October, 1885, Mr. W. A. Johnson bought Mr. M. House's interest, and since then the firm has been Johnson & Vance. They keep about fifteen horses and twelve single and eight double vehicles, and are doing a good business.

    B. J. VANHOOK, superintendent of county poor of Wilson County, was born in 1849 in Wilson County,Tenn. He is the son of Joel N. and Mary T. (Hickman) Vanhook. The father was of German lineage, born in 1822, on the line between North Carolina and Virginia, and was a farmer by occupation. He came to Tennessee with his mother, and at the time of his marriage, which occurred in 1841, was living in Wilson County. He bought land in Barton's Creek, in the Twenty-first District, where he lived for forty years. In 1885 he moved to the Twenty-second District, where he now resides. He is the father of six children, all of whom are living. The mother was born about 1824, in Wilson County, Tenn., and is also living. Our subject received his education in the county schools. December 31, 1869, he wedded Virginia Ligon, a native of Wilson County, born March 31, 1850, and the daughter of Richard L. and Roseline Ligon. To Mr. and Mrs. Vanhook were born six children: Riley C., Orrie, Bettie V., Carrie, Huston and Howard. Our subject settled on Barton Creek, and in 1877 he was elected to the position he now occupies. The county farm contains 220 acres and is located five miles west of Lebanon. The average number of poor is about thirty, and they are properly fed, clothed and cared for by Mr. and Mrs. Vanhook. In politics Mr. Vanhook is a Democrat. In 1882 he was nominated and elected as magistrate of District No. 22, and is at present holding the office. In the same year he bought 130 acres in the Twenty-second District. Mrs. Vanhook is a worthy member of the Methodist Episcopal Church South.

    W. C. WALKER, farmer, was born in Wilson County, Tenn., January 8, 1838, and is the son of James D. and Celia L. (Hamilton) Walker. The father was born in North Carolina in 1777, and followed the occupation of a farmer. At the time of his marriage he was living in Wilson County, where he died May 29, 1849. The mother was born in Sumner County, Tenn., in 1795, and died in Wilson County January 18, 1884. Our subject was reared on a farm and received his education in the schools of the county. In 1820 he was married to Katie, daughter of James and Eliza ______. Mrs. Walker was born in Wilson County, Tenn., in 1844, and the fruits of her marriage to Mr. Walker are an interesting family of eight children: Edwin L., Munroe V., Cornelia L., Edna E., Lillia, Addie, William C. and Washington B.H. Mr. Walker is the present owner of 315 acres of good land in the Fourth District, where he is now living. He is a successful farmer and has the respect of all who know him. In politics he is a Democrat.

    W.H. WALLACE, a dealer in lumber, was born April 6, 1852, in Wilson County, Tenn., and is a son of J. F. and Catherine Wallace. The father was born in 1836, in Sumner County, and in 1849 he moved to Wilson County and settled in the Second District. He followed agricultural pursuits, and in 1883 moved to Davidson County. The mother was born in 1834, Wilson County, and lived there until her death, which occurred in 1867. Our subject received a fair education in the country schools, and at the age of nineteen began working for himself. September 22, 1870, he married Martha J. Gibson, a native of Wilson County, Tenn., born September, 1852, and the daughter of Thomas W. Gibson. To Mr. and Mrs. Wallace were born six children: James W., Lillie, Lizzie, Daisie, Harvey W. and Alvin. Mr. Wallace, by his industry and energy, has accumulated a considerable amount of this world's goods and is respected by all who know him.

    J. S. WAMACK is a native of Wilson County, Tenn., born October 14, 1818, and is one of five children of Richard and Agnes (Smith) Wamack. The father was born in Virginia about 1790, and came to Tennessee, when about twelve years of age. He was a farmer, and married when about twenty years of age, and about thirty years afterward, his wife died, and he then married Mrs. Elizabeth (Pucket) Bailey. J. S. Wamack was educated in the district schools, and August 8, 1839, he married Miss Dorcas Hall. daughter of Samuel Hall. She was born in Wilson County, in 1821, and died August 24, 1857, leaving five children: John K., a theological student at Louisville, Ky.; America (wife of H. C. Patton), Josephine (wife of Eli Vaught), James R. and A.P. Mr. Wamack began doing business for himself after attaining his majority, and became the possessor of 100 acres of land near Cherry Valley, which he has increased to 325 acres of valuable farming land. In November, 1857, Mr. Wamack wedded Mrs. E. E. (Thomas) Boyle, but about a year after her marriage, she died, leaving one child--E. E. (wife of James M. Berry). April 13, 1859, Mr. Wamack lead to Hymen's altar, Mary (Anderson) Vick; she was born in Wilson County October 11, 1832, and bore her husband four children: California, Jourdan (deceased), Agnes (wife of S. Henderson), and an infant (deceased). Our subject and family reside on a farm of 100 acres near Cherry Valley, and in connection with farming, has kept a nursery for about ten years. He has been quite an extensive traveler, and has always contributed liberally to all public and private enterprises. He is a Democrat and cast his first presidential vote for Harrison. He and wife are members of the Baptist Church.

    J. M. WATKINS, proprietor of the Watkins Hotel, at Lebanon, Tenn., was born April 3, 1841, and is one of eight children of Moses and Jane (Scoby) Watkins. The father was born in 1812 in Virginia, and was a farmer through life. He came to Tennessee with his parents when about six years of age, and resided on different farms up to 1876, when he moved to Lebanon, where he died in the fall of 1884. The mother was born in Smith County, Tenn., and since the death of her husband has lived with her daughter Mary (Mrs. D. W. King). Our subject attended the schools of his native county, and in 1862 enlisted in Company B, Forty-fourth Regiment Tennessee Infantry, and took an active part in the battle of Shiloh. He returned home in 1864, and after farming two years became clerk in the Sweeney House, in Nashville. December 22, 1868, he married Dora Cartwright, daughter of Wilson T. and Elizabeth Cartwright. Mrs. Watkins was born in 1852 in Nashville. She and her husband have three children: Archie Wilson, Emma Bell (deceased) and Lena May. In 1877 Mr. Watkins came to Lebanon, and he and W. M. Organ purchased a livery and feed stable, which they managed for eighteen months, and for the following year Mr. Watkins conducted the business on his own responsibility. In 1879 he and Mr. D. C. Williams became partners, continuing one year. In 1881-82 Mr. Watkins kept a grocery and restaurant, and in 1883 established himself in the hotel business, and is an obliging and courteous landlord. In politics he is a Democrat, and he and wife are members of the Missionary Baptist Church.

    DR. R. L. C. WHITE. editor and proprietor of the Lebanon Herald, was born June 11, 1844, in Wilson County, Tenn., and is the only living child of Capt. John W. and Sally C. (Cannon) White, who were of English descent, born in North Carolina and Tennessee in 1804 and 1807, respectively. The father died in 1871. He was a merchant in early life, but later became engaged also in manufacturing interests. He came to Tennessee in 1821, and in 1831 became a resident of Lebanon, and was always an active worker for the old Whig party. He was clerk of the circuit court a number of years, and was married in 1841. The mother resides with our subject, who was educated in the Cumberland University, of Lebanon. In 1862 he enlisted in Company K, Fourth Tennessee Cavalry, and participated in the battles of Perryville, Chickamauga, Murfreesboro, Atlanta, and numerous minor engagements. He remained in the field until the surrender of Johnston's army, when he returned home and entered upon the study of medicine in the Nashville Medical College, remaining one year. In 1867 he attended the Jefferson Medical College, at Philadelphia, and graduated in 1868. In 1869 he purchased a one-half interest in the Lebanon Herald, and since 1871 has been sole proprietor and editor. Previous to 1872 the Doctor practiced his profession, but since that time has given his time and attention to his paper, which is very newsy and instructive, and is quoted throughout the State as one of the leading journals. The Doctor is a member of the Masonic fraternity (Lebanon Lodge. No. 98. F. & A. M.), of Baldwin Commandery; No. 7, Knights Templar; Magnolia Lodge, No. 30, I. O. O. F.; Lotus Lodge, No. 20, K. of P.; Lee Lodge, No. 22, K. of H. In 1878 he was elected Grand Chancellor of the State of Tennessee of K. of P., and held the position nearly two years. In 1883 he was elected Grand Keeper of Records and Seal of the State of Tennessee of the same order, and now holds the position. Since 1880 he has been one of the two Supreme Representatives of Tennessee of the Supreme Lodge of the World, K. of P. He has also been Grand Treasurer of K. of H. of Tennessee since 1880. Until 1882 the Doctor was a Democrat, but at that time, owing to a controversy on the State debt, the party was split, the Dr. taking sides with that faction which favored the payment of the debt. He was secretary of the State Executive Committee of the State credit wing of the Democratic party during that canvass. His faction was disastrously defeated, and since that time he has affilliated with no party. Since 1882 he has been magistrate, and has held the position of notary public, and is one of the directors of the Bank of Lebanon. May 23, 1869, Dr. White married Ella M. Wade, daughter of M. B. and Elizabeth Wade, of Rutherford County. She was born in 1851, and is the mother of five children: Ethel, Opal, Coral, Mabel and Kenneth.

    J. H. WILLIAMS is a native of Wilson County, Tenn., born March 6, 1841, son of J. H. and Margaret (Cason) Williams, born in North Carolina in 1794 and 1802, respectively. The father came to Tennessee when about twenty years of age, and was married some three years later. He soon purchased a small tract of land, and at the time of his death had acquired 2,000 acres of valuable laud. He died April 13, 1862. The mother yet resides in the old home place. Our subject was educated at Cold Spring Academy, and June 10, 1862, was married to Miss S. C. Owen, daughter of Daniel and Mary (Robertson) Owen. Mrs. Williams was born in Wilson County, Tenn., June 29, 1844, and has borne her husband nine children: Bettie, R. B., Mahala C., Mattie M., William H.,. J. H., Margaret I., Alex and Earnest. In 1862 Mr. Williams purchased 200 acres of his father's estate, and is very comfortably situated. After the war he met with some financial embarrassments, but by his industry and business ability has overcome these difficulties. In 1882 he was elected magistrate, and still holds the office. He is a Democrat and belongs to the Masons and I. O. O. F. He and wife are members of the Baptist Church. In 1861 he enlisted in Company I, Eighteenth Tennessee Infantry, and was in the battles of Fort Donelson (where he was wounded and disabled for six months) and Chickamauga. He was in cavalry service, and was engaged in numerous cavalry fights. He returned home in May, 1865.

    W. W. WILSON is one of the firm of Wilson & Waters, proprietors of a dry goods house at Lebanon, Tenn. He was born October 9, 1858, in Mississippi, and is the son of Eaton G. and Margaret L. (Roberts) Wilson. The father was born in Alabama and was a farmer. His death occurred in 1884. The mother was born about 1832 in Alabama, and is now residing with her son, W. W., in Lebanon. The latter was educated in Selma, Ala., but his school days were previous to his fifteenth year. He then began the battle of life for himself, and came to Lebanon and began clerking in the dry goods store of Price & Paty. About a year later he hired out to J. T. McClain & Co., with whom he remained seven years. During these years he was improving his education by study during his leisure moments, and is now a well educated man. In 1881 he owned a one-half interest in a jewelry store, his partner being B. J. Dillard, and for about a year owned a one-half interest in a livery and feed stable, the firm being styled Murphy & Wilson. In January, 1882, Mr. Wilson and Edgar Waters formed a partnership in the dry goods business, and have continued successfully in the same up to the present time. Mr. Wilson is a good business man and a skilled financier, and bears the reputation of being one of the finest salesmen in the city.

    R. Q. WORD, a trader and farmer, was born in Wilson County June 6, 1840, and is one of seven children of John and Elizabeth (Quarles) Word. The father was of Irish extraction, and was born in Virginia about 1798. He is a farmer, and came to Tennessee when but six years of age. He was married three times, and is now living in the Fifth District. The mother was of Irish extraction also, and was born in 1798 and died in 1870. Our subject was reared at home, and received his education in the common schools. At the breaking out of the war he enlisted in Company H, of the Seventh Tennessee Infantry, Confederate States Army, and was captured at the second battle of Manassas. He remained a prisoner about thirty days, when he was returned to the Confederate States Army authorities. He was in all the principal battles, and at one time was the only man in his company (officer or private) able to report for duty. After the war he was engaged for some time with the Louisville Oil Company, for which he traveled. February 21, 1867, he wedded Pemelia Freeman, a native of Tennessee, who died March 13, 1871. To this union were born two children, Charles and Elizabeth. He contracted a second marriage May 31, 1872, with Rachel Patton, a native of Kentucky, and the daughter of James H. and Sallie Patton. In 1871 Mr. Word went to Lawson, Ray Co., Mo,, and at different times was in a grocery, furniture and hardware store. In 1873 he returned to Tennessee and became one of the proprietors of the Silver Springs Mills. This occupied his attention for five years, since which time he has followed trading in live-stock. He has lately become a candidate for county trustee, subject to the county election August 5, 1886. He holds to the true principles of Democracy. He is a member of the Masonic lodge No. 98, and of the Royal Arch lodge and the K. of P. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church South, and his wife of the Baptist Church.

    GEORGE W. WRIGHT, an enterprising farmer and merchant, was born November 21, 1838, in Wilson County, Tenn., and is one of a family of eleven children born to Lewis and Temple (Eddings) Wright. The father was born in 1794 in the State of Virginia, and when only fifteen years of age immigrated to Wilson County, Tenn., and located in the Twenty-fifth District. He was married in the year 1820, and by industry and perseverance soon purchased about 220 acres. Death called him away March 10, 1872. The mother was born in 1800 in Wilson County. Our subject received a practical education in the county schools, and June 18, 1862, he was united in marriage to Lucy (Guill) Wrlght. She was born September 26, 1843, and is the daughter of James Guill. To Mr. and Mrs.Wright were born two children: Monroe A. and Temple E. Mrs. Wright's death occurred January 28, 1868. June 20, 1869, Mr. Wright married Mary Robison, daughter of John Drennan. She was born in Wilson County, and by her union with Mr. Wright became the mother of five children: John, Lee, Cora, Lena and Annie. Mr. Wright is a good man, and one of the most energetic farmers of the Twenty-fourth District.

    J. K. WRIGHT, an enterprising merchant and farmer of the Fourth District, was born in Sumner County, Tenn., October 24, 1847, and is one of six children born to William and Margaret J. Wright. The father was born in Sumner County, Tenn., in 1814, and followed the occupation of a merchant and farmer, and at one time was owner and proprietor of the first woolen factory that was operated in the State of Tennessee. He was married in his native county, and died there in 1870. The mother was born in Montgomery County, Tenn., in 1819, and died in Sumner County, Tenn., in 1859. Our subject passed his youthful days at home, and when twenty years of age received the rudiments of his education in the schools of the county, and subsequently attended Boyd's Commercial College at Louisville, Ky. In 1869 he was married to Eliza G., daughter of Dr. Henry B. and Susan Vaughn. Mrs. Wright was born in Wilson County, Tenn., in 1850, and by her union with Mr. Wright became the mother of five children: Maggie S., Alice B., James K., William H. and Graham C. In 1873 he bought eighty-five acres of land in Williamson County, where he commenced farming on his own responsibility, and at the present owns 145 acres of land, all lying in the Fourth District, where he still continues to farm. In 1867 Mr. Wright opened a grocery and dry goods store in La Guardo, and followed this business until 1873, when he sold out his store and continued farming until 1880. when he purchased his present store. He is postmaster at La Guardo, a Democrat and a member of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church.

    ROBERT YOUNG (deceased), a successful farmer, was born May 7, 1822, in Wilson County, Tenn., and was one of twelve children born to James and Nancy (Branch) Young. The father was born in Wilson County, Tenn., in 1797, and is of Irish descent. He was a farmer by occupation, and lived to a good old age, his death occurring June 7, 1881. The mother was born in the year 1800 in Wilson County, and died April 17, 1875. Our subject was educated in his native county, and December 1, 1842, was married to Nancy Neal, and by her became the father of eight children: James W., Mary E. (wife of George Sullivan), George, Pallas, David, Nannie (wife of T. Hamilton), William F. and Effe L. In the year 1866 he. moved and settled in the Twenty-fourth District, where he purchased 325 acres of land, and carried on farming and stock raising until his death, which occurred June 22, 1885. He was a good man, and had the respect and esteem of all who knew him. He was a member of the Masonic fraternity and held to the principles of Democracy, and was a worthy member of the Missionary Baptist Church. Mrs. Young survives her husband, and manages the farm in a skillful manner. She is a consistent Christian and a member of the Missionary Baptist Church.

    G. D. YOUNG, a farmer of the Fifteenth District of Wilson County, Tenn., was born October 28, 1823, and is a son of Joseph D. and Margaret (Stewart) Young, who were born in North Carolina and Tennessee in 1785 and 1796, and died in Tennessee in 1873 and 1875, respectively. They were married in 1812. G.D. Young, our subject, received his education in the schools of his native county. January 8, 1846, he married Miss Miranda, daughter of Andrew and Ritter (Kelly) Thompson, by whom he had six children: A. R., wife of J. D. Pemberton; Joseph D., A. T., Margaret E., J. M. and William B. After attaining his majority Mr. Young began farming on his own responsibility. After his marriage he purchased 135 acres of land which he has since increased to 185 acres. Mr. Young has been quite successful as a farmer and business man, and in addition to his farming has given some attention to the shoe-maker's trade and stone-masonry. He was a Whig as long as that party existed, but is now a Democrat. He belongs to the I. O. O. F and he and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

    JOSEPH YOUNG was born near Big Springs, Wilson Co., Tenn., August 1, 1826, son of D. and Sarah Young, who were of Irish descent, and born in Tennessee and Virginia, respectively. The father was born in 1804, and resided in Wilson County until his death in 1874. He was married about 1825. Our subject was educated in the district schools, and December 20, 1849, was married to Nancy Marks, who was born in Wilson County, Tenn., March 3, 1827, daughter of John and Mary Marks. She died April 19, 1858, having borne three children, one--Laura--is now living. November 23, 1860, he wedded Emily Sneed, born December 30, 1839, daughter of Abraham and Elizabeth Sneed. To Mr. and Mrs. Young were born these children: Sarah E., Mary, James, William H., Holly and Joseph. Soon after his first marriage Mr. Young purchased a grist-mill and has carried on that and farming to the present time. He owns about 200 acres of land. He was involved to the extent of $3,600 during the war, but by indomitable and persevering will has overcome these difficulties, and has since purchased and paid for 120 acres of excellent land. He is a Democrat politically and has held the office of justice of the peace a number of years. He and Mrs. Young are members of the Missionary Baptist Church.

    J. W. YOUNG, a farmer, is a son of Robert and Nancy (Neal) Young, and grandson of James Young, who were of Irish descent. Robert Young was born in 1822, in Wilson County, Tenn., and followed the occupation of farming, owning at the time of his death, in 1885, 325 acres of land. The mother was born in 1824, and is yet residing on the old home place. They were the parents of twelve children, eight of whom are living: Mary, George, Palace, David, Foster, Nannie, Effie and J. W., our subject, who was born in Wilson County, in 1842, was reared at home and educated in his native county. At the breaking out of hostilities between the North and the South in 1861, he enlisted in Company C, Fourth Tennessee Cavalry, and was in many of the principal battles and skirmishes of the war. At the battle of Stone Mountain he was shot in the left hand and was released from duty sixty days. He served until the fall of Richmond, and then returned home after an absence of nearly four years. October 22, 1868, he married Mary L. Luck, born in 1846, and daughter of W. W. and Fannie Luck. Mr. and Mrs. Young have four children: Robert, Elbert W., James and Omar A. From 1966 to 1880 our subject resided with his grandfather, James Young. He now has a good farm and a comfortable home. He is a Democrat and cast his first presidential vote for Horace Greeley. He and wife are members of the Baptist Church.
 

Back to WC Documents Index

Transcribed 1999 by William C. Colley Jr.
source: Woodward & Stinson Printing Co. Edition, Reprint 1971
For noncommercial use only.