Goodspeed Biographies

The following biographies was transcribed from Biographical and Historical Memoirs of Southern Arkansas by Goodspeed. Includes: Ashley, Bradley, Calhoun, Chicot, Clark, Cleveland, Columbia, Dallas, Desha, Drew, Hempstead, Howard, Lafayette, Lincoln, Little River, Miller, Nevada, Ouachita, Pike, Sevier, and Union Counties.(1890) Goodspeed Publishing Company.

• Amis, James A.
• Amis, Lewis A.
• Atkinson, Edward
• Barrett, John W.
• Bennett, Hiram P.
• Browning, Rev. Jessie O.
• Bunn, Judge Wiley J.
• Butler, James N.
• Chandler, Capt. E. P.
• Cheatham, Richardson W.
• Clark, Neil A.
• Daniel, William L.
• Dedman, Judge Robert H.
• De Laughter, Benjamin
• Duffie, Col. M. M.
• Feaster, Capt. David R.
• Fortune, Thomas J.
• Fuller, Judge R.T.
• Goodgame, Capt. John A.
• Harley, Maj. William R.
• Head, William B.
• Henry, William H.
• Higgs, Zachariah
• Hodge, Dr. John K.
• Holderness, Dr. A. S.
• Horton, William S.
• House, Rev. Thomas Q. C.
• Kendrick, Augustus H.
• Lochridge, La Fayette L.
• Mann, John S.
• Marshall, William H.
• Martin, Col. Robert
• Mitchell, Dr. Moses J.
• Nutt, John
• Parham, Dr. E. H. M.
• Pearson, William A.
• Peterson, Judge Thomas
• P'Pool, William H.
• Proctor, William J.
• Rogers, Spirous
• Russell, Capt. A. S.
• Sission, Robert F.
• Smith, Pleasant H.
• Smith, Judge Samuel H.
• Sorrells, David B.
• Stell, William D.
• Stone, Robert B.
• Thomas, P. H.
• Wallace, William
• Walsh, William J.
• Waters, Dr. John A.
• Welch, John C.
• William, Rufus W.
• Wood, Dr. P. W.
• Wozencraft, Dr. Oliver O.

Page 709
Lewis AMIS, Sr., merchant, Princeton, Ark. Foremost among those engaged in merchandising in Princeton is Mr. AMIS, who has built up a trade which will rank among the largest in the county. This gentleman was born in North Carolina. Granville County on December 22, 1822, and is the son of Joseph & Elizabeth (DOWNEY) AMIS, natives also of Granville County, N. C. The father was born in 1700, and was a successful agriculturist. He was a soldier in the War of 1812, and was stationed at Norfolk, Va. He was also a colonel in the militia. For many years he held the office of magistrate, and was a man universally esteemed. He was widely known, was a Whig in political and church circles. He died in his native county in 1840, and the mother also died there eight years later. They were both members of the Presbyterian Church, and took great interest in religious matters. Of the eight children born to his parents, Lewis AMIS was third in order of birth. He received his primary education in the schools of his native county, and supplemented the same by attending Chapel Hill College, Orange, N.C. After the death of his father he commenced farming, then moved to Georgia in 1857, and from there to Dallas County, Ark., where he has since resided. Upon coming to Princeton he embarked in mercantile pursuits, and this he has since continued with the greatest success. He espoused the cause of the Southern States during the late war, and was in the commissary department. Previous to this, in October, 1843, he had married Miss Martha AMIS, a native of Granville County, N.C., and the daughter of William AMIS. She died in North Carolina. The fruits of this union were two children: Martha (wife of William M. ADAMS, a farmer of Texas), and Joseph Warren (deceased, who was in business with his father). On June 1, 1852, Mr. AMIS married Miss Martha DANIEL, daughter of Lewis DANIEL of North Carolina, and she died August 10, 1889. She was born on August 16, 1835. The children born to this marriage were seven in number: Walter S. (attorney of Cleveland County), Eugene H. (a Presbyterian minister now in Kentucky), Betsy (wife of H.R. THOMAS, a farmer of this county), Amy F. (a wife R. C. WILKINS, commercial traveler, Pine Bluff, Ark), Lewis Jr. (merchandising at Princeton, and a partner of his father), Alice and Mary. Mr. AMIS was county treasurer for ten years, and discharged the duties of that office in a very satisfactory manner. He is a member of the Presbyterian Church, and a Democrat in politics.

Back to top

Page 709-10
James A. AMIS, general merchant, Fordyce, Ark. Mr. AMIS established his business in Fordyce in 1883, and carried a stock of goods, the average value of which is about $5,000, with annual sales of from $10,000 to $15,000. He was born in Granville County, N.C. in 1829, and is the son of Col. Joseph & Elizabeth (DOWNEY) AMIS and the grandson of James Lewis AMIS, who emigrated from Virginia to North Carolina, at an early day, and there successfully tilled the soil until his death. The maternal grandfather, James DOWNEY, was a farmer and died in Granville County, N.C. The parents of our subject were born in Granville County, N.C., and there they spent their entire lives, the father dying in 1840 and the mother in 1845. The former was of French Huguenot descent, was a colonel in the War of 1812, and by occupation followed in the footsteps of his father. James A. AMIS, the fifth of eight children, two now living: Lewis and subject, assisted his father on the farm until ten years of age, or until the death of the latter, when he entered Caldwell Institution, Hillsboro, N.C., and there remained for several years. He then attended Jefferson College, at Cannonsburg, Penn., and graduated from that institution about 1857. After this he followed merchandising at Greensboro, N.C., until the braking out of the war when he enlisted in Company H, First North Carolina Cavalry, and served about two years in Virginia army. He was then discharged on account of disability. He was captured at the seven days fight, and imprisoned several weeks near Fortress Monroe. After being exchanged he hired a substitute for $1,000, and he then engaged in teaching. Later he ran the blockade, and took a cargo of tobacco to New York. In 1867 he came to Arkansas engaged in merchandising at Princeton, where he continued until 1883. He then moved to Fordyce, when he has been one of the leading merchants since. He was married in 1868, to Miss Bettie TAYLOR, who was left an orphan when young, and was reared by an uncle, Judge Presley WATTS. Mr. AMIS has a good home and good business property in Fordyce and is also the owner of considerable real-estate. In politics he is a conservative Democrat, was formally a Whig, and cast his first presidential vote for Scott in 1852. Mrs. AMIS is a member of the Presbyterian Church.

Back to top

Page 710
Edward ATKINSON, stock dealer, farmer and notary public, Fordyce, Ark. There was born in Christian County, Ky., in 1843, to Col. Thomas & Elizabeth (LAMUELS) ATKINSON, a son, whom we now take as the subject of this sketch. He was the ninth of ten children seven sons and three daughter sand received but very little schooling. In 1861, when but eighteen years of age, he enlisted in the Fifth Arkansas Infantry, Company C, and served one year in Missouri, Indian Territory, Louisiana, and Texas. He was in the fights at Black Bone Mountain, Fayetteville, Pine Bluff, Poison Springs, Marks Mill, and all through Prices raid through Missouri. His brother, James Polk ATKINSON, was with him and was killed at Pilot Knob, MO. Our subject was wounded at Poison Springs. He surrendered at Trinity River, Tex., in June, 1865. The last year he sergeant. After the war he returned to farm life, and was married in 1875 to Miss Belle HARRISON, a native of Dallas County, and the daughter of Judge Edmund & Eliza HARRISON, who were born in North Carolina. From that State Mr. & Mrs. HARRISON emigrated to Kentucky, there to Tennessee, and about 1850 to Dallas County, Ark., settling in the woods near Princeton. They afterward moved to what is now Cleveland County, and there the Judge died in August, 1865. He was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, as is his widow, who is now living. He was county judge of Dallas County for some time, and was a member of the A.F.&A.M. The union of Mr. & Mrs. ATKINSON resulted in the birth of five children-four sons and a daughter. Since his marriage Mr. ATKINSON has lived adjoining Fordyce, where he has about 500 acres of land. For some years he has been dealing in horses and mules, buying in Texas and selling at home. He is a surveyor, was justice of the peace a number of years, and is now notary public. In politics he is a Democrat, his first presidential vote being for Horace GREELEY, and socially he is a member of the K. of H. at Fordyce. Mrs. ATKINSON is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church,. Mr. ATKINSONs parents were born in Person County, N.C., in 1791 & 1804, respectively, and were married in that county. From there they removed to Tennessee, and a few years afterward to Christian County, Ky., and thence, on January 1, 1849, to what is now Cleveland County, Ark. There they resided until 1860, when they moved to Dallas County, and there passed the remainder of their days, the mother dying on January 1, 1874, and the father on June 16, of the same year. Both were among the pioneer settlers of this region, and improved a number of good farms. Mr. ATKINSON was a great hunter and took a prominent part of subduing the dangers of pioneer life. He was a colonel of militia at an early day, and was in the War of 1812, at the battle of Horseshoe Bend. He had a brother, Henry ATKINSON, who was a great Indian fighter, and died a great many years ago in Jefferson Barracks, Mo. His father, John ATKINSON, came from England to America before the Revolutionary War, and was married in North Carolina, where he spent the rest of his life. His wife, whose maiden name was Frances PARSONS, was born in North Carolina, and died in Christian County, Ky., on the farm where the subject of this sketch was born. The maternal grandfather, Josiah LAMUELS, was born in North Carolina, and was of Scotch descent. He died in North Carolina. His wife died at the home of her grandson, Edmund ATKINSON, on September 3, 1875, at a good old age.

Back to top

Page 710-11
John W. BARRETT, farmer and stock-raiser, Bearden, Ark. Among the people of Dallas County the name that heads this sketch is by no means an unfamiliar one, for many years he has been actively and successfully engaged in farming and stock-raising in this county. Mr. BARRETT was born in Clark County, Ga., in 1840, and is the son of James W. & Mary A. (PRNYER) BARRETT, born in Blount County, Tenn., in 1808, and Clark County, Ga., in 1812, respectively. The father went to Clark County, Ga., when a young man, was married there about 1835, and there resided until 1837, when they moved to Dallas County, Ark. They lived one year near Princeton, and then settled on the property where the subject of this sketch now lives. There the father died August, 1889. Both were members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. BARRETT was county and probate judge of Clark County, Ga., a number of years, and socially was a member of the A.F.& A.M. The maternal grandfather, Peter PRNYER, was a native of the old Dominion and died in Clark County, Ga., before our subject was born. The latter, the third of six sons and four daughters, two sons and three daughters now living received a good English education, and in May, 1862, he joined Company E, First Trans. Mississippi Infantry. He operated in Arkansas, was in the fight at Helena, and was wounded three times at that place. He was over a large part of Arkansas, was on detached service during the battle of Prairie Grove. He was in a number of battles and many severe skirmishes. He was discharged at Camden, Ark., in May, 1865, and returned to his home, where he engaged in tilling the soil. He was married I August, 1865, to Miss Sarah J. MARSHALL, a native of Alabama, born in 1842, and the daughter of Franklin & Elizabeth A. MARSHALL, who were born and married in Virginia, and who emigrated to Alabama some years later. They moved to Dallas County, Ark., about 1855, and Mr. MARSHALL died in Calhoun County, in 1879, She was a member of the Missionary Baptist Church. To Mr. & Mrs. BARRETT were born five children-three sons and two daughters. For three years after the war Mr. BARRETT lived on his present farm, and then removed to Calhoun County, where he remained until December, 1881, and then returned to his present farm, on which his father settled when coming to Dallas County thirty-one years ago. Mr. BARRETT now has 1,700 acres of land, and has about 200 acres under cultivation. He raises considerable stock, and is one of the leading farmers of the county. From 1876 to 1880 he was justice of the peace in Calhoun County, and discharged the duties of that office in a highly creditable manner. Politically a Democrat, his first presidential vote was cast for H. Seymour in 1808. He is a member of the K. of H. Fordyce Lodge No. 3368. He had three brothers in the Confederate army: Peter P. enlisted in the Third Arkansas Cavalry and was killed in Cherokee County, N.C. in 1864; William C. enlisted in the Fourth Arkansas Infantry, Company H, and died at home December, 1881, and Charles T., who joined the Twelfth Arkansas Infantry, was captured at Island No. 10 and died at Camp Douglas, Ill., after an imprisonment of twelve months.

Back to top

Page 711
Hiram P. BENNETT, planter, Dalark, Ark. A lifetime of hard, earnest endeavor in pursuing the occupation to which he now gives his attention, has had a result to place. Mr. BENNETT among the truly respected and honored agriculturists of the county. He was born in Giles County, Tenn., on July 21, 1831, and is the son of Elijah & Sarah ( WELLS) BENNETT, natives of Middle Tennessee. The father died in Tippah County, Miss., at the age of seventy-six years and the mother died at the age of seventy-one years. They were married in Middle Tennessee, and remained there until 1835, when he moved to Alabama, and soon after to Tippah County, Miss. Both were members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, South, and were active workers in the same. The father tilled the soil all his life amassed considerable property, but lost the principal part of it during the late war. He was a Whig in politics. The BENNETT family is of English descent. There were born to Mr. & Mrs. BENNETT a large family of children, ten of whom grew to maturity, and four of whom are now living. Of these, Hiram P. BENNETT was the fourth in order of birth. He received a fair education in Tippah County, Miss., and was married in 1850 to Miss Elizabeth HAMILTON, a native of Mississippi, born in 1830, and the daughter of William HAMILTON. The following children are the results of this union: James R. ( a farmer of this county), William E. (also of this county), Sallie (wife of John PORTERFIELD, a farmer of this county), Elvada (wife of F. A. PORTERFIELD, a farmer of the county and brother of John PORTERFIELD), Frances (deceased, was the wife of W.T. WELLS, of this county), Mary E. (wife of A. L. BETTIS, who is justice of the peace of Manchester Township), Pinkeye Forest (a farmer of the county), Delilah (wife of W.T. WELLS, also a farmer of the county), Lewis C. (at home), Charles W. (at home), and Hiram W. Mr. BENNETT started out for himself as a tiller of the soil, resided in Mississippi until 1865, and then in 1865 came to Dallas County, Ark., locating in this community. He first purchased eighty acres of land, since which time he has increased by adding the balance of one section, and has 200 acres under cultivation. He left the Confederate army with very little means, and a wife and seven children to provide for. He had enlisted in the Twelfth Mississippi Cavalry, under Gen. Forrest, and was in some very active engagements, but was on detached duty most of the time. After the war, he began tilling the soil, and by his industrious habits and great perseverance, soon retrieved his fallen fortunes. In 1871 he was elected justice of the peace of Manchester Township, and served three terms in succession, being associate justice two years of the time. He and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, South and contribute liberally to all worthy movements that come to their notices. He is a Democrat in politics, and socially is a member of the Masonic fraternity.

Back to top

Page 712
Rev. Jessie O. BROWNING, planter, Dalark, Ark. In preparation of this brief outline of the history of one of the representative citizens of the county, appear facts which are greatly to his credit. His intelligence, enterprise, integrity and many estimable qualities, have acquired for him a popularity not derived from any factitious circumstance, but a permanent and spontaneous tribute to his merit. Mr. BROWNING was born in Montgomery (now Lowness) County, Ala., on May 29, 1827, and is the son of Francis J. & Sarah P (VEAZY) BROWNING, natives of Greene & Jones Counties, Ga., respectively. Frances J. BROWNING was born October 1, 1800, and died in Clark County, Ark., on September 1, 1885, and his wife was born on October 21, 1805, and died in Clark County, Ark., on April 17, 1875. They were married in 1825, and were members of the Missionary Baptist Church for many years, always taking great interest in religious matters. He was a member of the Masonic fraternity, and was made a Master Mason by his son, Rev. Jesse O., who was master of Melee Lodge, in Clark County. While living in Alabama he was assessor, but after coming to Arkansas he would hold no office higher than that of justice of the peace, which position he filled in a creditable manner for many years. He was a very successful farmer, and spent his money with a liberal hand, being widely known for the interest he took in church affairs. During the late war his sympathies were with the North, and during his lifetime he never took the oath of allegiance. He was a Democrat in politics. His father, John BROWNING, was a native of North Carolina, and died in Clark County, Ark., in 1844. He was captain of a company in the war of 1812, and was wounded in a battle with the Indians. He was a farmer by occupation, and represented Greene County, Ga., in the Legislature several times. He was also a member of the Baptist Church. He died in North Carolina. His father was a Revolutionary soldier, Sarah P. (VEAZY) BROWNING was the daughter of Jesse VEAZY, a native of Virginia or North Carolina, and also a soldier in the Revolutionary War, serving seven years in all. He was the express courier from Gen. Washington to Gen. Green, before the battle and before the surrender of Gen., Corawallis at Yorktown. He was shot at many times, but escaped without injury, and rode in all, in two days and the same horse, 240 miles. He died in Georgia when about sixty years of age. He had accumulated a comfortable fortune as an agriculturist, and although a Baptist in belief, was not a member of any church. His wife, Sallie VEAZY, joined the Methodist Episcopal Church, under direct supervision of John WESLEY, and was excluded from the society for marring Jesse VEAZY, because he was not connected with that society. She afterward joined the Baptist Church, and died in Alabama. There were born to the marriage of Francis J. BROWNING and wife eleven children, five daughters and two sons now living, of whom our subject is the eldest. The latter received his education by fireside, while others were sleeping, and finished at Oakland Academy, eight miles west of Arkadelphia, when twenty-one years of age. After leaving school he commenced farming, first in what is now know as Anderson Township Clark County. In January, 1881, he moved to Manchester Township, Dallas County, and with the assistance of numerous Negroes, amassed quite a fortune, a considerable share of which he lost during the late war. Since then he ha has been very successful, and is to-day the owner of 640 acres of land, and has a large share under cultivation. He joined the Missionary Baptist Church at the age of sixteen years, was licensed to preach in 1856, and ordained the same year. He took charge of Pleasant Hill Church, and has since that time remained in charge. He volunteered as a regular soldier, but was not accepted, and was in the State Militia a short time. In 1854 he was elected magistrate of Beech Creek Township, Clark County, but soon resigned, becoming thoroughly disgusted with that office. In 1874 he was elected by the Democratic party to represent that county in Legislature, without working for the honor, and served during A. H. Garlands administration. In 1888 he was again elected by the Democracy of Dallas County, and discharged the duties of the position in such a manner as to give assurance to honorable people that they had the right man in the right place. He became a Mason in 1850, and has taken the Chapter Degrees. In 1849 he was married to Miss Caroline FARRINGTON, daughter of Capt. John FARRINGTON, who served under Gen. Jackson in the War of 1812. She was born in Crawford County, Ala., on March 16, 1830, and two children were the fruits of this union: Rosellia ( was the wife of James A. SKILLERN, who is a farmer of Clark County; she was born on August 22, 1850, and died at Arkadelphia on April 1, 1884) and Frank J., Jr. (was born in the State of Louisiana in 1854, May 15, and died at his fathers home in Dallas County on July 27, 1887). Mrs. BROWNING is a member of the Baptist Church, as were both children.

Back to top

Page 713
Judge Wiley J. BUNN, mayor and general merchant Fordyce, Ark. A Strong and representative house in merchandising, in Fordyce, is that of Judge W. J. BUNN, for he is one of the most successful and enterprising business men of that place. He was born in Nash County, N.C., in 1835, received a common school education, and came with his parents to Arkansas previous to the war. In April, 1862, he joined the Confederate army, but about three months later was discharged on account of disability. In January, 1863, he joined Company A, Fourth Arkansas Infantry, and operated east of the river in Georgia, Tennessee, Alabama and Mississippi. He was mostly on detached service, and surrendered in North Carolina, at the close of the war. He was married in 1865, to Miss Laura Margaret STRONG, a native of South Carolina, and the daughter of Elijah F. STRONG, who was born in Connecticut, but who came to Arkansas about 1849. Mr. STRONG was a farmer and merchant, and when a young man, went to South Carolina, where he taught school for some time. He died in 1865. To Mr. & Mrs. BUNN were born eleven children, two sons and five daughters living. Mrs. BUNN died in 1886. Mr. BUNN lived on the old homestead in Calhoun County, until 1874, and was elected clerk of the county, holding the position for ten years in succession. He then engaged in merchandising at Hampton, until his removal to Fordyce. Previous to this, in 1886, he was elected county and probate judge of Calhoun County, which office he held for two years. In January, 1890, he was elected mayor of Fordyce, and is a man well fitted for that position. He is honest, upright, a man of good judgment, and is respected by all. In politics he has been a Democrat all his life, and his first presidential vote was cast for Buchanan, in 1856. He has been a member of the A. F. & A. M., since 1867, is a K. of H. at Fordyce No. 3368, and R. A., Riverside Lodge, at Camden. He and wife are respected members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, South. He was the second of eleven children born to his parents, David & Elizabeth (THOMAS) BUNN, natives of Nash & Edgecombe Counties, N.C., and born in 1809 and 1812, respectively. The parents were married in the last-named county, in 1844, and later removed to Calhoun County, Ark., where they passed the closing scenes of their lives, the former dying in 1857 and the latter in 1863. Both were members of the Methodist Church, South. David BUNN was a farmer by occupation, and was internal improvement commissioner of Calhoun County, for a number of years. His father, David BUNN, was a native also of North Carolina, and was of the third generation born in that State, all named David.

Back to top

Page 713
James N. BUTLER, farmer and lumberman, Pine Grove, Ark. What is usually termed genius has little to do with the success of man in general. Keen perception sound judgment and a determined will, supported by persevering and continuous effort, are essential elements to success in any calling. Mr. BUTLER, was born in Mecklenburg County, Va., in 1839, and was the eldest of four children born to John W. and Eveline S. (HUTCHINSON) BUTLER, only one besides our subject now living, John W. The parents were natives of Virginia, where they were reared and married and where Mr. BUTLER's death occurred about 1845. Two years later the family removed to Carroll County, Tenn., and January, 1850, they came to Dallas County, settled in the woods, and the children, all sons, improved a good farm. The mother died August, 1867, and was for many years a worthy member of the Methodist Church. She was the daughter of Joseph HUTCHINSON, who died in Virginia. James N. BUTLER was reared by his widowed mother mostly in the wilds of Arkansas, received a good education in the county schools, and later attending school at Tulip, where he studied numerous higher branches. He taught school for one year and was married in 1861, to Miss Laura PRIDE, a native of Virginia, and the daughter of William & Caroline PRIDE, natives also of the Old Dominion. They came with Mr. BUTLER’s people to Arkansas, and there the father died in 1860. Both were members of the Methodist Church, and the mother is still living. To the marriage of Mr. & Mrs. BUTLER were born six children, two sons and one daughter now living, all married and residing near where they were born. Since 1850 Mr. BUTLER has lived in his present neighborhood, with the exception of two years, when he resided in Arkadelphia to educate his children, and is the owner of about 2,000 acres in different tracts and several hundred acres in Texas, with about 500 acres under fence and part cultivated. He is one of the leading farmers of Dallas County, and from 1865 to 1874 was engaged in merchandising on the farm. He ran a good gin for many years, and is now the owner of two and also has a good saw-mill. He established and named Pine Grove post-office, of which he was postmaster until his removal to Arkadelphia. In politics he is Democratic. Socially he was a member of the Masonic fraternity, demitted from Manchester Lodge, No. 16, and now a member of Russell Lodge. He and wife have been members of the Methodist Episcopal Church from childhood.

Back to top

Page 714
Capt. E. P. CHANDLER, merchant, Fordyce, Ark. Mr. CHANDLER is a member of the firm of Chandler & Rowland, general merchants, who established their business in Fordyce in 1883, and carry a stock of goods valued at $6,000, and with annual sales of $30,000. For two years this firm has owned and operated Fordyce Canning Factory, and during 1889 put up 40,000 cans of apples, peaches, tomatoes and string beans, and is one of the leading firms in town. Since its establishment, this business has steadily and constantly increased, and evinces still further success owing to the superiority of its canned goods. Mr. CHANDLER was born in Smith County, Tenn., in 1828, and is the son of Parks & Mary (OWENS) CHANDLER, natives, respectively of Virginia and South Carolina. They both removed with their parents to Smith County, Tenn., when young, and there they were married. The father died in 1844, but the mother came with our subject to Arkansas, in 1871. Both were members of the Methodist Church for many years. Parks CHANDLER was a well-to-do farmer, and was the son of Isaac CHANDLER, an early settler of Smith County, Tenn., where the latter probably passed his last days. He was a farmer, and of German descent. The maternal grandfather, Thomas OWENS, was a native of North Carolina, and died in Smith County, Tenn., where he had carried on farming for many years. Both grandparents were in the War of 1812. Capt. E. P. CHANDLER was the fourth of four sons and four daughters, and received his education in the common schools. He married, in 1847, to Miss Sarah RAWLAND, a native of Smith County, born in 1831, and the daughter of Rev. James & Patsey RAWLAND, natives of of the Old Dominion, but early settlers of Smith County, Tenn. Mr. RAWLAND was a farmer and tanner, and was also a minister in the Methodist Church for many years. He was a soldier in the War of 1812, and died about 1868. To Mr. & Mrs. CHANDLER have been born ten children, four sons and four daughters now living: Mattie (wife of William JONES), Marion F., Parks, Ellen (wife of Thomas ROWLAND, the other member of the firm), Allen B., Hughel T., Tobitha (wife of Robert H. DEDMAN,[see his father’s bio]) and Mary. When Mr. CHANDLER first came to Arkansas, he cut a road three miles to where he settled, nine miles southwest of Princeton, where he improved a good farm, and there resided for thirty years. He then removed to Princeton, and for three years was engaged in merchandising, after which he moved to Fordyce, and continued the same business there with unusual success. He is a prominent business man, and one who has the respect and confidence of the people. He has just erected a fine brick business house, one of the best in Fordyce, and is also the owner of 600 acres of land in different tracts, all the results of his own efforts. He was in Capt. L. P. McMurry’s regiment of the First Regiment of Tennessee Volunteer Infantry, and served about six months in the Mexican War. He was discharged at Carnago, Mexico, on account of disability. During the late war he served in the Confederate army- the first year as Captain of Company D, Twelfth Arkansas Infantry- principally on the Mississippi River, and at Island No. 10 he was captured, but at once made his escape. Soon after he was in the quartermaster’s department, in Arkansas and Texas, and surrendered at Camden at the close of the war. In politics he was formerly a Whig, and his first presidential vote was cast for Scott, in 1852. Since the war he has been a Democrat. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity, and all his family, with the exception of one daughter (Ellen), who is a member of the Missionary Baptist Church, are members of the Methodist Church, of which he has been steward for twenty years or more.

Back to top

Page 714-15
Richardson W. CHEATHAM, postmaster and merchant, Princeton, Ark. Among the prominent citizens of Dallas County who have occupied positions of respect and influence, stands the name of Mr. CHEATHAM, who owes his nativity to the Blue Grass State, his birth occurring in Cumberland County, October 5, 1845. His parents, Obadiah & Lucy Ann (CHEATHAM) CHEATHAM, were natives also of Kentucky. The parents were married in their native State, and came to Arkansas in 1847, locating in Dallas County, where the family have since lived. The father was a blacksmith, and worked at his trade until his death, April 7, 1862, when forty-seven years of age. He was a member of the A.F. & A. M., and was a Whig in politics. The mother is still living, and resides in Princeton. She is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, South. There were born to their marriage eight children, four now living: Joseph H. (a farmer of Princeton, Ark.), James C. (a merchant of Fordyce, Ark. and a partner of our subject), and Benjamin D, (also a partner of our subject). Those deceased were John R. (was a farmer of this county, and died in 1876, when twenty-two years of age), Phoebe J. (died in this county in 1889, at the age of forty two years), Parmelia E. died (during the war , when twelve years of age), and Obadiah E. ( who died in infancy). Richardson W. CHEATHAM passed his school-boy days in this county, and after the death of his father was engaged in tilling the soil and blacksmithing, which he continued until after the war. He was then elected deputy sheriff, and served in that capacity for several years. In 1872, he was elected sheriff, served two years, and so great was his popularity and so well did he fill the position, that he was elected a second term. In 1874 he turned his attention to mercantile pursuits in Princeton, and has continued it successfully since. He was appointed postmaster at Princeton during Grant’s administration, and has held the position ever since, to the entire satisfaction of the people. In 1875 he married Miss Isabella CLARK, daughter of Peter CLARK, and four children were born to this union: Isabella, Hugh C, and Wilbur. Lucy J died in Infancy. Mr. CHEATHAM is one of the much esteemed citizens of the county, and is honest and upright in all his dealings. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity, and in political views is strictly Democratic. Mrs. CHEATHAM is a member of the Presbyterian Church.

Back to top

Page 715
Neil A. CLARK, sheriff, Princeton, Ark. This popular and successful official owes his nativity to Tennessee, his birth occurring in Shelby County April 17, 1845, and is the son of Peter & Lonisa Jane (SHAW) CLARK, natives of North Carolina and Hardeman County, Tenn., respectively. The father was born in Cumberland County in 1818, read medicine with Dr. Robertson & McCoy, of Fayetteville, N.C., and moved to Haywood County, Tenn., in 1838. There he married Miss L. J. SHAW in 1841, and resided until 1845, when he moved to Shelby County of that State. On January 1, 1846, he moved to Arkansas, settled in Dallas County, and there his death occurred February 3, 1853, when but forty-five years of age. The mother was born February 27, 1827, and after the death of Mr. CLARK, or in 1861, she married James B. THRASHER. She is still living, makes her home with our subject, and is a member of the Presbyterian Church. Her second husband died in 1854. Of the six children born to his parents, Neil A. CLARK is fifth in order of birth, and only three are now living. He divided his time in youth in assisting on the farm and in attending the common schools where he obtained a good practical education. When sixteen years of age, or in 1862, he enlisted in the Eighteenth Arkansas Confederate Infantry, and later joined the Twelfth Arkansas Battalion of Sharpshooters, with which he remained until captured on May 17, 1863. He was captured at Big Black and taken to Camp Morton, Ind., thence to Fort Delaware and to Point Lookout, Md., in December, 1863. He was then exchanged and afterward joined the Twelfth Arkansas Confederate Infantry, with which he remained until cessation of hostilities. He was in many battles, the most prominent of which were Corinth, Port Gibson, Champions Hill, and at Big Black Bridge, where he was captured. After the war, Mr. CLARK was left without means, and for several years he was engaged in teaming form Pine Bluff to Princeton Township. He continued this occupation until 1880, when he was elected assessor, and in 1882 he was elected to the office of sheriff, which position he has filled in a very satisfactory manner since. On April 11, 1869, he was united in marriage with Miss Mollie GRAY, daughter of Joseph GRAY, of this county, and this marriage resulted in the birth of seven children: Mary L. (wife of A. J. FULLER, resides in Fordyce, Ark.), Madora (at home), Gracie, Neil, Carrie, Helen B, and Hugh (who died July 10, 1873, when three years of age). Socially Mr. CLARK is a member of the A. F. & A, M., the K of P., and is a Democrat in politics. He and Mrs. CLARK are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, South.

Back to top

Page 715-16
William L. DANIEL,farmer and stock-raiser, Pine Grove, Ark. Where it necessary for us to include in the sketch of Mr. DANIEL, any items pertaining to his ability as a farmer and stockman, perhaps the greatest compliment that could be paid him would be for us to pint out his fine farm, which is being skillfully managed and cultivated, and upon which he makes quite a specialty. He was born in Haywood County, Tenn., in 1841, and is the son of William DANIEL, who owes his nativity to North Carolina, his birth occurring in that State, in 1813. The latter was married in Tennessee, to Miss Sarah (DICKINSON) DANIEL, a native of Alabama, born in 1815, and they resided in the former State until 1844, when they emigrated to Dallas County, Ark., settled near Tulip, and were among the pioneer settlers. They improved a farm there, and there resided until 1856, when they removed twelve miles south and improved another farm. In 1870, they went to Hot Springs County, where the father died June, 1888. The mother died in May of the following year. Both were members of the Missionary Baptist Church for many years, and Mr. DANIEL was a deacon for thirty years or more. He was a clerk of Judson Baptist Association many years, was also clerk of Saline Baptist Association after his removal to Hot Springs County for some years, and was moderator of the same until his death. He was a man of excellent Judgment and was esteemed by all. He was first deputy sheriff of Dallas County, and in 1860 was elected sheriff of the same, his popularity being so great that he was re-elected three terms, serving five years in succession, and being legislated out in 1865. In 1874 and 1876 he was county and probate judge of Hot Springs County. He was a member of the Masonic fraternity for many years, and was an active worker in church and other matters of moment. His father, Ephraim DANIEL, who died in North Carolina, when William DANIEL, Sr., was quite small, was reared by a Quaker in North Carolina, until nearly grown. The maternal grandfather, Isaac DICKINSON, died en route from Alabama to Tennessee. He was a farmer by pursuit. William L. DANIEL was the third of ten children, eight now living, and received but little schooling. In March 1862, he joined Company B, Eighteenth Arkansas Infantry , and fought at Corinth twice, Inka and Port Hudson. He was parolled and came home, and soon after joined the Twelfth Arkansas Infantry at Mark’s Mill. From there he went to Marshall, Tex., and surrendered May, 1865, as sergeant. returning home he married in 1866, to Miss Mary G. HARRISON, who was born in North Carolina, in 1847, and who is the daughter of Kelm & Mary HARRISON. Mr. & Mrs. HARRISON came from Granville County, N.C. to Dallas County, Ark., in 1866, and the father in 1874. They were members of the Methodist Protestant Church. Mrs. DANIEL died on November 23, 1876, leaving five children- two sons and three daughters-all living. Mr. DANIEL’s second marriage occurred on January 3, 1878, to Miss Julia A. CLARK, the daughter of Frank & Fannie CLARK, who died in Camden when Mrs. DANIEL was small. The latter was reared there and died in 1881, in full communication with the Methodist Episcopal Church. The first wife was also a member of that church. Mr. DANIEL purchased his father’s farm and the latter moved to Hot Springs, but in 1873 he sold that farm and purchased his present one, on which were small improvements at that time. He now owns 100 acres under cultivation, and 160 acres in all. He is a Democrat in politics, and the first presidential nominee for whom he voted was Seymour, in 1868. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity, St. John’s Lodge, Holly Springs, now Russell Lodge, and was senior warden. He has been a member of the Missionary Baptist Church since 1856, and his children are members of the same. His father’s family were all Baptists and respected citizens.

Back to top

Page 716-17
Judge Robert H. DEDMAN, attorney, Princeton, Ark. Judge DEDMAN, one of the most popular and successful legal practitioners of Dallas County, was born in Madison County, Ala., on April 24, 1831, and is the son of Philip & Mary (HAWKINS) DEDMAN, natives of the Old Dominion, Mecklenburg and Lunenburg Counties, respectively. The father was born in 1779, and his death occurred in 1852. He commenced for himself with very little means, but a lifetime devoted to the arduous duties of the farm, and the untiring energy he displayed in the management of the same, contributed very materially in placing him in the foremost ranks of agriculturists. He was a member of the Primitive Baptist Church, as was also the mother, who was born in 1783, and who died in 1847. After her death the father married Mrs. Mary VAUGHAN. To the first union were born fourteen children- eight sons and six daughters-he being the youngest, only three now living: James S. ( a merchant and stock dealer of Idaho), Richard D. (a farmer of Dallas County, Ark.). Judge Robert H. DEDMAN was educated at Viney Grove Academy, Viney Grove, Lincoln County, Tenn., and when twenty years of age, he commenced to read law in Madison County, Ala. In December, 1852, he came to Princeton, Ark., and commenced the study of law, under Judge Freman W. Compton. In 1855 he was licensed to practice in the inferior courts and in 1856 in the Superior courts, where he has since practiced his profession. In May, 1861, he joined Company A, Third Arkansas Confederate Cavalry, as a private, was soon promoted to lieutenant, and then captain, remaining in the same regiment until the close of the war. He was in many prominent battles, viz: Corinth, Hatchie Bridge, Chickamauga, the Atlanta campaign, and was in all the battles from that time until the surrender at Greensboro, N.C. He was never wounded or taken prisoner, but had horses shot from under him, and his clothing was often riddled with bullets. Soon after the war, or in 1866, he was elected prosecuting attorney of the Sixth District, when it consisted of Dallas, Pulaski, Hot Springs, Saline, Conway and Prairie Counties, and in 1888 he was appointed county judge, to fill an unexpired term. He has also been special judge in the circuit courts a number of times. He was married in 1859, to Carrie WINSTEAD, daughter of Stephen WINSTEAD, and a native of Person County, N.C., born in 1841. To them were born two sons and one daughter: Robert H., Phillip W. and Carrie Lee (who died in 1884). The two sons are engaged in merchandising in Princeton. Judge and Mrs. DEDMAN are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, South, and he is superintendent of the Sunday school. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity, and in his political views adheres to the Democratic party.

Back to top

Page 717
Benjamin De LAUGHTER, farmer and ginner, Pine Grove, Ark. Rev Solomon De LAUGHTER, the subject of this sketch, was probably born near the latter part of the last century, and was married in 1817 to Miss Susanna TRAILOR. They resided in South Carolina until 1844, and then came to Clark County, ark., thence to Hot Springs, for a few years and then to Ouachita County, where Mrs. De LAUGHTER died in April, 1863. Mr. De LAUGHTER was a Baptist minister for many years and was also a farmer. He filled the office of Justice of the peace for a number of years in Ouachita County, and received his final summons in 1866. The paternal grandfather came from England to America, but was of French origin. Benjamin De LAUGHTER was a native of Edgefield District, S.C., born in 1844, and was the youngest of fourteen children-seven sons and seven daughters -two sons and two daughters living, the youngest and oldest. Twelve of these children were members of the Baptist Church, and three brothers lost their lives in the Confederate army : James P. (died at Fort Pillow). Absolom (died in a Northern prison) and George (died while on a furlough). Benjamin De LAUGHTER received very little school, and to obtain this was obliged to walk three or four miles, as he was reared in the wilds of Arkansas. He began for himself at the age of eighteen years as a farm hand, and for a short, during the latter part of the war, was in the Arkansas Battalion at Camden. He was married, November 11, 1869, to Miss Eliza KING, a native of Tennessee, and the daughter of Thomas and Katie KING. Mr. & Mrs. KING were born, reared and married in North Carolina, and from there moved to Tennessee, where they remained until about 1850. They then emigrated to Dallas Creek, and were among the first families. There they improved a farm and resided until 1889, when they gave up housekeeping, and are now residing in Arkansas. To the marriage of Mr. & Mrs. De LAUGHTER were six children, three sons and two daughters now living. In 1871 Mr. De LAUGHTER and family settled on their present farm, consisting of 220 acres, and has eighty acres under cultivation. For about twelve years he has also run a good steam gin. In politics his is Democratic, and his first vote was for Gen. Grant. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity, Manchester Lodge No. 16 He and wife are members of the Missionary Baptist Church.

Back to top

Page 717-18
Col. M. M. DUFFIE, attorney, Princeton, Ark. Col. M.M.DUFFIE, a distinguished member of the legal profession, was born in South Carolina, and is the son of Reuben L. and Annie (McCLINTOCK) DUFFIE, natives, respectively, of North & South Carolina. The father was born in 1799 and died in 1874. His wife died in 1848. Both parents were church members, he of the Methodist Episcopal, and she of the Presbyterian denomination. He followed agricultural pursuits as a livelihood, and also taught school for many years. In politics he was Democratic. His father, Samuel DUFFIE, was a native of the Emerald Isle, and after emigrating to the United States settled in Mecklenburg County, N, C, He was a soldier in the Revolutionary War on the American Side, and was a member of what was termed by the British, [The Hornet’s Net] in North Carolina. Of the eleven children born to his parents, seven of whom are living, Col. M. M. DUFFIE is second in order of birth. He attended the Concord High School, Fairfield District, S.C., then spent three years at Davidson College, North Carolina, and in 1856 graduated at Esrskine College, South Carolina, as salutatory orator. In October, 1856, he came to Arkansas and taught school for two years. In August, 1858, he was admitted to the bar, and in 1860 was admitted to practice in the Supreme Court, and has practiced his profession every since. May 20, 1861, he cast his lot with the Confederacy, and made lieutenant of the Dallas Rifles, or Company C, of the Sixth Arkansas Infantry. His company was composed of ninty-nine men, of whom only one was married. Our subject served as lieutentant until January, 1862, when he was elected captain of his company. He was offered by his commander, Gen. T. C. Hindman, the position of major and quartermaster, but wrote on the commission when sent to him from Richmond, Va., [Respectfully declined; I prefer to remain with the boys]. He was in many of the most important battles, among which were Shiloh, Murfreesboro, Perrysville and Chickamauga, was wounded four times, and at the last named battle was permanently disabled, and although promoted to the position of major was not in active service from that time. After the battle of Chickamauga he was assigned to post duty at Unionville, S.C., which he held until the last post in the State has surrendered, May 10,1865, he surrendered on company of infantry and one battery of artillery, and gave up millions of dollars’ worth of Confederate stores which had been sent to Upper South Carolina for safety. In September of that year he again returned to Arkansas and resumed the practice of his profession. Previous to the war, in 1858, he represented Dallas County in the State Legislature, and in 1874 in the extraordinary session. In 1877 he was elected to the State Senate, and in 1879 he was elected president of the Arkansas Senate without being a candidate, and to his credit it can be said that not one of his decisions was appealed. February 7, 1866, he was married to Miss Hannah COOKSEY, a native of Arkansas, born in 1848, and the daughter of Benjah H. COOKSEY. The following children were born to this union: Benjah C. (attorney at Little Rock, Ark.), Annie Sidney (graduate of Millerburg, Ky.), Samuel M. (merchant of Princeton, Ark.), John J. (attending Arkadelphia Baptist College), Hannah and William Reuben (at home). One child, Robert Cameron, died when one year old. Col. DUFFIE, Mrs. DUFFIE and three children are members of the Presbyterian Church, and he is ruling elder in the same. He is a Blue Lodge and Chapter Mason, and in politics is Democratic. In 1884 Col. DUFFIE was nominated as presidential elector on the Democratic ticket, was elected by large majority, voted for Gover Cleveland, and carried the vote of his State to Washington City. By the casualties of war he lost all his property of every kind, but is now in easy circumstances.

Back to top

Page 718-19
Capt. David R. FEASTER, farmer, Fordyce, Ark. Not only has Capt. FEASTER became well recognized as an agriculturist of advanced ideas and practice, but the reputation which he enjoys as a first-class citizen is one well deserved. He was born in Fairfield County, S.C., on December 25, 1832, and is the son of Jacob and Isabelle (COLEMAN) FEASTER, natives also of Fairfield County, S.C., the father born in 1791. In that State the parents spent all their lives, the mother dying in 1837 and the father in 1873. Both were members of the Universalist Church. The father was a farmer and surveyor. He was justice of the peace, and held other offices for many years. He was the son of John FEASTER, a native of Lancaster County, Penn., who went to with his parents to Fairfield, S.C. and there married Miss Drucilla MOBLEY. His wife died in 1807, at the age of thirty-three years, and he died in 1848, at the age of eighty years. He was the son of Andrew FEASTER, who was born in Canton Berne, Switzerland, and who came with his parents to America and was married in Pennsylvania. He died in Fairfield County, S.C., July 15, 1821, at the age of eighty-six years. The latter’s wife, Mrs. Margaret COOPER, nee Fry, was born in Philadelphia, and died in Fairfield County, S.C., in 1823, at the age of ninty-five years. Subject’s great-grandfather, Peter FEASTER, was born in Canton Berne, Switerzerland, came to America at an early day, resided for some years in Pennsylvania, and died while being removed to South Carolina. He was buried in Virginia. The maternal grandfather of our subject, David R. COLEMAN, was born in Halifax County, N.C., and died in 1855, at the age of ninty-two years. He was a farmer and surveyor. He was justice of the peace for several years and was one of fourteen sons. His wife, Edith BEAM, was born in Fairfield County, S.C., and died there. The great-grandfather, Robert COLEMAN, was born in England, and came with his parents to Virginia and from there to Halifax County, N.C. He died in Fairfield County, S.C. He married Miss Elizabeth ROE, who also died in Fairfield County, S.C. Capt. David R. FEASTER was the youngest of seven children, two sons and one daughter living, and received his education principally at Feasterville Male & Female Academy, founded by his grandfather in 1840, and still prosperous. He was married in 1856, to Miss Victoria E. RAWLS, a native of Columbia, S.C., born in 1837, and the daughter of John I. & Anna (GEIGER) RAWLS, natives of South Carolina, born in Richland County (city of Columbia) and Lexington Counties, respectively. They both died in Columbia City, the mother in 1849 and the father in 1868. They were Methodists. Mr. RAWLS was a wealthy real estate owner, and in early life a silversmith. Mrs. FEASTER died on January 7, 1877. She was the mother of ten children, four sons and three daughters living. Capt. FEASTER was married, the second time, on December 1, 1878, to Mrs. Hattie COLEMAN, a native of Ridgeway, Fairfield County, S.C., born in 1846, and the daughter of of rev. Charles M. & Emily A. PORTER, natives of Fairfield County, S.C. born in 1807 and 1819, respectively. They both died in that State, the mother in 1851 and the father in 1882. To the union of Mr. and Mrs. FEASTER were born six children-three sons and three daughters. Mrs. FEASTER was the mother of five children by her former marriage to Henry J. COLEMAN, and they are named as follows: Preston F., Feaster Porter, J. David, Mary E. and Henry J. By her marriage to Mr. FEASTER she became the mother of these children: Charles M, Virgil C., Susan A., Margaret F., Roger Williams and Harriet J. At the breaking out of the war Capt. FEASTER organized Company C. Sixth South Carolina Infantry, but served as orderly sergeant. The company was at the capture of Sumter. He was then in Virginia until the fall of 1861, when he was discharged on account of ill health. He was exempt for two years; then joined the Second South Carolina Cavalry, and operated on the coast of South Carolina until the close of the war. he then returned to the farm, and resided in his native county until December, 1888, when he came to Dallas County, Ark. He is the owner of 569 acres of land, and is a prominent tiller of the soil. In politics he has been a life-long Democrat, and his first vote was for Franklin Pierce, in 1852. Socially he is a member of the Masonic fraternity, also a member of the S. of T., and the Farmer’s Alliance. His children by his first wife, were as follows: Anna (wife of A.M. COLEMAN), John R., Edith C. (wife of Preston F. COLEMAN), Mary V. (wife of A.W. CLAYTON, editor of the Evening Record. Columbia, S.C.), Prof. Jacob H. (a teacher and a graduate of Normal Institute, Nashville, Tenn.) David R. and James P.

Back to top

Page 719
Thomas J. FORTUNE, farmer and stock-raiser, Fordyce, Ark. This prosperous and very successful tiller of the soil owes his nativity to Dallas County, Ark., his birth having occurred on the farm where he now lives in 1851, and is the son of Walter & Mary E. (NORRIS) FORTUNE, the father a native of Georgia and the mother of Alabama. The parents were married in the last-named State, resided there until 1816, and then came to Dallas County, Ark., were among the pioneers, and settled in the woods near present site of Fordyce. There Mr. FORTUNE improved a good farm, and there spent the balance of his days, dying in 1877 at the age of eighty-two years. His widow still survives, being seventy-nine years of age in February, 1890. She is a member of the Missionary Baptist Church. Mr. FORTUNE was a successful farmer and stock-raiser, and an excellent citizen. Thomas J. FORTUNE, the youngest of six children- two sons and four daughters- received a fair education in the common county schools, and was married in 1883 to Miss Fannie MORGAN, a native of Cleveland County, Ark., and the daughter of Tollivar & Mary MORGAN, early settlers of Cleveland County, Ark., where they still live. Mr. MORGAN being one of the prominent farmers of that county. To Mr. & Mrs. FORTUNE were born two children, a son and daughter. Mr. FORTUNE has spent his entire life on the farm of his birth, and is one of the leading farmers and stockmen of Dallas County. He has 480 acres of land, with 150 under cultivation, and is engaged in raising lots of stock, hogs, cattle, sheep, horses and mules. He has his farm in good shape, and one glance over his broad acres shows the kind of farmer that he is. In politics he affiliates with the Democratic party.

Back to top

Page 719
Judge R. T. FULLER, attorney, Princeton, Ark. This very prominent citizen of Dallas County, who is now located at Princeton, engaged in the practice of law, has followed this profession for forty years continuously and the history of his life is an important and honorable part of that of his State and country. He was born in Leesburg, N.C., about 1825, and graduated at Chapel Hill College, where he studied law. About 1850, he came to Arkansas located at Princeton, and there has since resided. After the war he was appointed judge of this judicial circuit by the governor of the State, and as an attorney he has been very successful. He married Miss Agnes B. SMITH, daughter of Dr. W. F. SMITH, who was for years well known in Arkansas as one of the first physicians. She was born in Lincoln County, Tenn., and is still living. To this union six children were born, all, with one exception, now living: J. W. ( a farmer near Princeton, engaged in farming), Robert C. (an attorney of this district, for two years States attorney, with no opponent for his second term), Alex J. (now in the livery business in Fordyce), Samuel G. (died when two years old), and Thomas F. Alexander J. was born on April 28, 1857, attended school at Princeton, and when he was eighteen years of age commenced for himself by farming, and at the same time was engaged in merchandising at Princeton, which he continued for four years. He then came to Fordyce, entered the employ of Acruman & Son as salesman, and was afterward in the employment of Edrington & Bunn. In July, 1889, he formed a partnership with J. A. RUSSELL, and engaged in the livery business. Recently he has carried on the business by himself. On August 31, 1888, he married Miss Mary CLARK, daughter of Neal A. CLARK, sheriff of Dallas County, and by this union became the father of one son Robert A. Mr. & Mrs. FULLER are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, South, and in his political views the former affiliates with the Democratic party. Socially he is a member of the K. of H. He served as deputy sheriff for eight years under Mr. CLARK.

Back to top

Page 719
Capt. John A. GOODGAME, is a merchant, farmer, and the postmaster at Holly Springs, Ark. This wide-awake and very successful business man owes his nativity to Bibb County, Ala., where he was born in 1828, and received his education in the common schools. He remained at home until 1851, and then emigrated to Holly Springs, Ark., where he was married, in 1852, to Miss Permelia E. WATKINS, a native of Alabama, and the daughter of Harlan and Nancy WATKINS, natives of Kentucky, where they were married. Her parents afterward emigrated to Alabama, where the father died a few years later. Mrs. WATKINS was married again and removed to Mississippi, thence in 1853 to Dallas County, Ark., and during the war to Texas, where she died in 1884. Mr. GOODGAME’s union was blessed by the birth by the birth of eight children, three sons and three daughters now living. Since his marriage Mr. GOODGAME has lived in his present neighborhood on three different farms, and now has 160 acres. Since 1879, or for about ten years, he has been engaged in merchandising at Holly Springs, and for about eight years has been postmaster. During the late war he was about four years in the confederate army, Company C, Thirty-third Arkansas Infantry, serving as lieutenant the first year, and then captain until the close of the war. He operated in Arkansas and Louisiana and fought at Prairie Grove, Mansfield, Pleasant Hill, Saline, etc. He surrendered at Marshall, Tex., in May 1865, and returned home. He was formerly a Whig in politics, but is now a Democrat, and his first presidential vote was cast for Gen. Scott in 1852. He has been a member of the Masonic fraternity since 1862, St. John’s Lodge No. 38, and has been a member of the temperance order of P. of H. He and his wife have been members of the Methodist Episcopal Church since 1855. His parents, James and Telitha C. (COBB) GOODGAME, were born in Georgia in 1799, and South Carolina, in 1808, respectively. They were married in Bibb County, Ala., where they resided until about 1834, and then removed to Talladega, thence to Coosa County, where Mr. GOODGAME died in 1884. The mother is still living, and has been a member of the Baptist Church for many years. The paternal grandfather, John GOODGAME, was born in Georgia and died in Talladega County, Ala. Mr. GOODGAME was of English-Irish descent, but the ancestors were early settlers in America, and was a soldier in the Creek War. He was a farmer. The paternal grandmother of our subject, whose maiden name was Sarah E. CROCKETT, was a second cousin of David CROCKETT, and was born in Georgia and died in Alabama when about seventy-five years of age. She was a member of the Baptist Church. The maternal grandfather, Alexander COBB, was born in South Carolina and died in Bibb County, Ala. He was a soldier in the war with the Indians.

Back to top

Page 720-21
Maj. William R. HARLEY, one of the old and very prominent citizens of Dallas County, was originally from the Old Dominion, his birth occurring in Broadford, Washington County, June 4, 1809. His parents, James and Margaret (ROBERTS) HARLEY, were natives, also, of Virginia, and both received their final summons in that State, the mother in about 1811 and the father in 1835, when he was sixty-five years of age. The latter was a merchant, but also carried on farming, and for a number of years was sheriff of Russell, Va., whither he had moved after the death of his wife. He was widely and favorably known over Russell, Washington and Smyth Counties, and his death occurred in the last-named county. During the War of 1812 he was captain of a company, and was stationed at Norfolk when peace was declared. He was a member of the Masonic fraternity, and in politics affiliated with the Republican party. After the death of his wife, Mr. HARLEY married Mrs. Eunice (HENDRICK) HEGBURN, who died in Virginia. The result of his first union was the birth of two children: Our subject and Basil W. The latter was born June 20, 1811, and died in Clark County, Ark., during the war. He was a public-spirited citizen, and for many years resided in Mississippi, representing Marshall County of that State in the Legislature. After coming to this State, he represented Dallas County in the State Legislature, and was State Senator, becoming president of the Senate. He was bank commissioner of the State, also mail agent, and held various other public positions of trust. While in Mississippi he was engaged in merchandising , and after coming to Arkansas he was engaged in locating Mexican land claims. William R. HARLEY received a liberal education in Russell and Washington Counties, Va., and attended some of the best school that the country afforded at that time. After this he read law for some time, and became well versed in legal matters. When nineteen years of age he turned his attention to merchandising at Broadford, but later bought property in Marion, Smyth County, where he remained eight years, and during that time represented that county in the Legislature three sessions. He was also appointed an elector by a convention in Richmond, on the HARRISON and White ticket, which he declined, on account of removing to Mississippi. In 1836 he went to Marshall County, Miss., and there made his home for twenty-three years. He represented that county several terms, in both branches of the General Assembly. In 1843 he was a candidate for Congress, but was defeated by a small majority. In 1858 he moved to Arkansas, located in Princeton, and has represented Dallas County in the Lower HOUSE three terms. He was county judge of Dallas County, in all, about eight years, and as a public servant has given the best of satisfaction to his constituents. In 1857 he was appointed, by President Buchanan, Indian agent in New Mexico, which position he accepted, and served a part of four years, resigning on account of sickness in his family, and a distaste of frontier life. He formed an acquaintance with the celebrated Kit Carson, who was agent of the Utah Indians. Maj. HARLEY’s predecessor was killed by the Indians, and a monument was afterward erected to his memory at Fort Defiance, N.M. Maj. HARLEY is one of the Democrats who voted for Gen. Jackson in 1832, was a personal friend of Jefferson Davis, and heard the latter make his fourth political speech. On the breaking out of the war he was engaged in merchandising, and again, in 1882, he embarked in that business. Aside from this, he has always owned a farm and tilled the soil. In 1835 he married Miss Louisa Jane THOMPSON, a native of Virginia, born in 1818, and who died in Dallas County, Ark., in 1873. She was a member of the Presbyterian Church for many years. Born to this union, were twelve children, eight of whom are now living: William H. H. (an editor), Marshal T. (farmer, of Clark County), Standard C. (ex-assessor of Clark County, and merchant at Gurdon, that county), John B. (selling goods in Logan County, Ark., and traveling salesman for Guedeker & Boynton, wholesale clothiers of New York City), Caroline L. (wife of Robertson CHEATHAM, farmer of Clark County, Ark.), Maggie R. (wife of R. F. HOLMES, farmer and assessor of this county), James R. (merchant and farmer, of Princeton, in partnership with his father), and Jennie F. (widow of R. Hunter PARHAM; she resides in this county). Those deceased are R. C. (who was deputy clerk of Dallas County, and died at the age of twenty-four years), Samuel B. (died in Dallas County at the age of four years), and America (who died in Mississippi when quite young). Mr. HARLEY has been a member of the Presbyterian Church since a young man, was baptized when an infant, and has been an elder in the church for thirty-one years. He has been a life-long Democrat, but crossed the line for what he considered better men. The HARLEY family are of English-Irish descent, and Mr. HARLEY’s grandfather, John HARLEY, was a native of the Emerald Isle. He came to the United States before the Revolution, and located in Augusta County, Va., near Stanton, where he tilled the soil.

Back to top

Page 721-22
William HEAD, general merchant, cotton buyer and farmer, Holly Springs, Ark. No name is justly entitled to a more enviable place in the history of Dallas County than the one who heads this sketch, for it is borne by a man, who, though comparatively young in years, has yet proven himself to be one of the most successful business men in the county, and is usefully and honorably identified with the interests of the county in every worthy particular. He was originally from Henry County, Ga., where his birth occurred in 1844, and is the son of William H. and Amanda (DeLARMARL) HEAD, both natives of Georgia, the father born in Elbert County in 1821, and the mother in Butts County about the same year. They resided in Henry County until 1857, and then moved to Dallas County, residing near Holly Springs until 1875, when they moved to the city. About 1870 the father engaged in merchandising, which he continued until his death in 1883. He had formerly been a farmer. During the late war he was about two years in the Confederate service as home guard. His father, George Marshall HEAD, came to Dallas County during the war, and died here about 1865. He was of English descent, was a soldier in the War of 1812, and was a farmer by occupation. The mother of our subject died in 1862, and Mr. HEAD married again. The maternal grandfather, DeLAMAR, was of French descent, and was a sailor for many years. Later he was a planter, and at the time of his death, which occurred in Butts County, Ga., he was quite wealthy. William B. HEAD was taught the details of farm life by his father when quite small, and received his education in the common schools. He was the fourth of fifteen children—eight sons and seven daughters—four sons now living. In 1862 he joined Company G, Twelfth Arkansas Infantry at Corinth, and was in the fight at Perryville, siege of Port Hudson, and was then paroled and came home. He afterward fought at Jenkins’ Ferry, Mark’s Mill and Poison Springs. He surrendered at Marshall, Tex., in May, 1865, after which he returned home and attended school at Holly Springs for a few years. He then clerked until 1870, and then engaged in business with his father, continuing the same after the death of the latter, on his own account with annual sales of about $12,000. He held the position and discharged the duties of justice of the peace for about fifteen years, or until 1889. He has about 600 acres of land in different tracts, and home and business property in town, all the result of energy and perseverance. Mr. HEAD was married in 1867 to Miss Virginia TEMPLETON, who was born in Ouachita County, Ark., and who was the daughter of James and Elizabeth TEMPLETON, natives of South Carolina. Her parents emigrated to Alabama, thence to Mississippi, but in a very early day came to Ouachita County, Ark., where they died in 1860 and 1865, respectively. To Mr. and Mrs. HEAD were born six children, one son and four daughters now living. In politics Mr. HEAD has affiliated with the Democratic party all his life, and his final presidential vote was cast for H. Seymour in 1868. He and wife have been members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, South, for many years, and he is secretary in the same.

Back to top

Page 722
William H. HENRY, general merchant, Holly Springs, Ark. Mr. HENRY is a member of the firm of Henry & Patterson, general merchants and cotton growers, who established their business at Holly Springs in 1885, with annual sales that equal about $10,000. He was born in Oktibbeba County, Miss., in 1850, and is the son of James and Mary A. (WALSER) HENRY, natives of South Carolina and Georgia, and born in 1811 and 1815, respectively. They were married in Alabama, and from there emigrated to Mississippi, in 1848, and in 1858 to Holly Springs, Ark. Here the father passed the remainder of his days, with the exception of two years during the war that he spent in Texas, and died in 1884. He was formerly a farmer, but the latter part of his days was spent in merchandising, at Holly Springs. He was justice of the peace for many years, and, during the late war, was in the Confederate army a short time, but was discharged, on account of ill health. He was in the Third Arkansas Cavalry. The mother is still living, and both are members of the Methodist Church. William H. HENRY, the seventh of three sons and seven daughters, was reared on the farm, obtained a common-school education, and in 1872 began working for himself, as a farmer, which occupation he has continued ever since. He is now owner of about 600 acres, and is also the owner of considerable business property in town. In 1879 he commenced merchandising alone, and thus continued until 1885, when Mr. Patterson became a partner. Mr. HENRY was married in 1871 to Miss Virginia HARISTON, a native of Dallas County, Ark., and the daughter of James and Mary HARISTON, who were natives of Tennessee, and who remained in that State until 1848, when they came to Dallas county. Mr. and Mrs. HENRY’s marriage relations have been blessed by the birth of nine living children. Since 1858 Mr. HENRY has lived in and near Holly Springs, and is now one of the enterprising and substantial citizens. He is a Democrat in politics; is a member of the Masonic fraternity, of which he is junior warden, and he and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

Back to top

Page 722-23
Zachariah HIGGS, planter, Princeton, Ark. Zachariah HIGGS, the fourth of thirteen children, twelve of whom grew to maturity, born to John and Martha (HARRISON) HIGGS, was originally from Granville County, N.C., where his birth occurred on October 15, 1827. The parents also natives of Granville County, N.C., and moved from that State to Barry County, Mo., where the father died when ninety-three years of age, or in 1884. The mother died on August 22, 1889, when eighty-seven years of age. They were members of the Missionary Baptist Church, and he built a church in Barry County, Mo., which was called Higgs Missionary Baptist Church. He was formerly a Whig, but latter part of his days was identified with the Democratic party. He was a farmer and a business man, dealing quite extensively in stock, but the most of his property was swept away during the war. He also gave a great deal to his children. He and Mrs. HIGGS were married when quite young, and lived as husband and wife for nearly three-quarters of a century. His father, Leonard C. HIGGS, was a native of Maryland, and died in North Carolina at the age of ninety-six years. He served his country all through the Revolution, and was in many battles with the British. His father, Zachariah HIGGS, moved from Maryland to North Carolina about the time of Leonard’s birth. Zachariah HIGGS, the subject of this sketch, passed his school days in North Carolina, and on coming to Missouri with his parents in 1851, turned his attention to farming. One year later he returned to North Carolina, and after remaining there about eight years, moved to Dallas County, Ark., where he engaged in farming. He is at present the owner of 310 acres of land, with seventy acres under cultivation, all the result of industry and hard work. In 1862 Mr. HIGGS joined the Confederate army in Gen. Tappan’s brigade, Col. Grinstead’s regiment, and served in this command until the battle of Jenkins’ Ferry, where he was unfortunate in having his arm broken, after which he came home and there remained. He was in the battle of Pleasant Hill, Jenkins’ Ferry, and was a brave and trusty soldier. He was in rather poor circumstances, financially, when he returned home, but with the grit characteristic of the family he went to work and soon regained what had been lost previous to the war. On December 30, 1852, he married Miss Betsy G. HARRISON, daughter of K. and M. G. HARRISON, and a native of Granville County, N.C., where his birth occurred on July 28, 1834. The following children were the fruits of this union: Patty Julia (wife of Thomas J. WALSH, a farmer of this county), Robert K. (now attending school), and Anna Mary (at home). Those deceased were: Lonnie C. (who was the wife of Robert D. HALL, and died in Dallas County when about twenty-five years of age; she was born on October 17, 1856, and died on September 20, 1881), and John W. (who was born on August 20, 1867, and died June 17, 1870) when three years of age). Mr. and Mrs. HIGGS joined the Methodist Protestant Church in North Carolina, but as there was no church of that denomination where they lived in Arkansas, they joined the Methodist Episcopal Church, South. Mr. HIGGS was trustee of Macedonia Church, but belongs to Sardis Church. Politically he is a democrat.

Back to top

Page 723
Dr. John K. HODGE, physician and surgeon, Princeton, Ark. Since Dr. HODGE’s location in Princeton, he has shown himself eminently worthy of the confidence and trust reposed in him by all classes, and proven himself to be a physician of decided merit. His parents, Dr. George D. and Susan E. (SORRELLS) HODGE, were natives of Tennessee and Mississippi, respectively. The father was a graduate of Transylvania School of Medicine, at Lexington, Ky., and was a physician of considerable note. In 1846 he came to Dallas County, Ark., and practiced his profession in this county until 1876, after which he moved to Prescott. There he still continued practicing, but died in the latter part of that year when about sixty years of age. He was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, South, a member of the Masonic fraternity, and in politics was a strict adherent to the Democratic party. The mother is still living and resides in Prescott. She is also a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, South. Dr. John K. HODGE was the eldest of ten children, six of whom are now living. His birth occurred at Holly Springs, Dallas County, Ark., April 15, 1850, and he received his education in that county and at Franklin, Tenn. In 1869 he commenced the study of medicine under his father, and in 1871 and 1872 he attended the Nashville School of Medicine, graduating the last-named year. Afterward locating at Holly Springs, he practiced there for six years with his father and three years alone, and, then in 1881 moved to Princeton, where he has had a very extensive practice since. His union to Miss Ellen HENRY, daughter of James and Mary HENRY, of Holly Springs, was celebrated in 1872, and six children were born to this union: Olga M., Henry D., Robert E., George A., Joseph K. and Charles B. Dr. HODGE is a Democrat in politics and was chairman of the Democratic Central Committee, of Dallas County, Ark. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity, and he and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, South.

Back to top

Page 723-24
Dr. A. S. HOLDERNESS, physician and surgeon, Fordyce, Ark. A prominent physician and surgeon, who by his own great abilities has attained distinction in his profession, is Dr. A. S. HOLDERNESS. This gentleman was born in Caswell County, N.C., in 1834, and is the son of Robert C. and Elizabeth (BROOKS) HOLDERNESS, natives also of Caswell County, N.C., where the father passed his last days, dying in October, 1833, four months before Dr. A. S. HOLDERNESS was born. The mother came to Arkansas in 1851 and died in Calhoun County in 1859. Robert C. HOLDERNESS was a farmer by occupation and the son of William HOLDERNESS, who was a native of England, but came to America when a young man, served in the Revolutionary War, and died in Caswell County, N.C. He was a successful tiller of the soil. The grandfather, Charles Brooks, was a native of Caswell County, N.C., and there passed his entire life engaged in farming. He was a soldier in the Revolutionary War. Dr. A. S. HOLDERNESS was the youngest of seven sons and one daughter born to his parents, and received a good education. He attended three and a half years at Dan River Institute, Yanceyville, N.C., and finished at Caldwell Institute, at Hillsboro. He came to Calhoun County, Ark., in 1850, and four years later graduated in medicine from the University of Pennsylvania. Since then he has practiced his profession in the immediate vicinity of Fordyce, where he has lived since 1850. He is one of the oldest physicians of Southern Arkansas, and one of the most successful. He was nearly all through the war, in the Confederate army, as assistant surgeon of the First Arkansas Cavalry, and operated in Arkansas, Missouri, Kansas and Texas. For a short time he held the rank of first lieutenant of Company B. He was discharged in Texas, May 27, 1865, and the same year was married to Catherine B. DIXON, a native of Chambers County, Ala. When her father died she was quite small and came with her mother to Arkansas at a very early day. The mother died at the home of Dr. HOLDERNESS, in Fordyce, about 1888. To the Doctor’s marriage have been born nine children—five sons and three daughters living, and all have received excellent educational advantages. The Doctor owns several thousand acres of land, and considerable property in Fordyce. When he first came to Arkansas he and family settled near Chambersville, where they resided until 1882, and then moved to Fordyce, where he erected a sawmill, which he operated for three years. He owned the site where Fordyce now is, was first to settle where the town is and was the first mayor of the place. In politics he is Democratic, and his first presidential vote was for J. Buchanan, in 1856. The entire family, except the youngest child, are members of the Methodist Church, and Dr. HOLDERNESS has been a steward in the same since 1859. His wife has been a member for many years, or since early girlhood.

Back to top

Page 724
William S. HORTON, merchant, Fairview, Ark. Prominent among the successful business enterprises of Dallas County stands that conducted by Mr. W. S. HORTON. Both as a merchant and farmer he has been eminently successful. Reduced to almost poverty by the late war, yet by his undaunted energy he soon gathered around him the comforts of life. His parents, Thomas and Elizabeth (TEASLEY) HORTON, were born and married in Elbert County, Ga. He followed farming all his life and became quite wealthy. While on their way to Texas in 1849, the father died in Shreveport, La., at sixty years of age. The mother’s death occurred in Harrison County, Tex., in 1853, at the age of fifty-five. His father was a native of North Carolina, and of English descent. In politics he affiliated with the Democratic party. Eleven children were born to this union, five of whom are now living: Mrs. Sarah TRIMBLE, Mrs. Nancy HINES, Mrs. Mary M. JOHNSTON and Thomas (a farmer and merchant at Sunny Point, Tex.). Of these children W. S. HORTON is the eldest. He was born in Elbert County, Ga., November 28, 1823. He graduated at Brownwood Institute, Lagrange, Ga., at the age of twenty-one. He then accepted the position of salesman in the employ of Jones, Philips & Co., at Griffin, Ga. In 1849 Mr. HORTON went to Mexico, then to San Francisco, Cal. He remained in the gold region thirteen months, and then embarked in business in Elysian Fields, Tex. After this he was one year in Jefferson, Tex., in the general merchandise business, but gave this up and turned his attention to farming in Panola County, Tex. From here he moved to Fairview, Dallas County, Ark., and began to clear up his present plantation. He is now the owner of 700 acres of as good land as is to be found in the county. He has 200 acres in cultivation. In 1868 he again turned his attention to merchandising, and has continued to sell goods ever since at Fairview, and also at Pine Grove. In 1854 Mr. HORTON married Miss Elizabeth SCOTT, a native of Decatur, Ala., and a daughter of Maj. J. D. SCOTT and niece of Gen. Winfield SCOTT. Nine interesting children have been born to this union—four sons and five daughters: Bettie (who died at the age of twenty-one), Ida B. (who became the wife of Dr. WOZENCRAFT, of Dallas County), Mary H. (the wife of Ed POOL, of Fordyce, Ark.), Maud (attending Ouachita College), Angie (at home), Louis S. (a farmer of this county), Stephen A. and William S., Jr. (in the Arkansas University, Fayetteville) and Paul E. (in the training school, Fordyce). In 1863 Mr. HORTON joined the State troops under Gov. Flanagan. He was in the battles of Poison Springs, Mark’s Mill, and many skirmishes. He spent the year 1868 farming in Jefferson County, Ark., and then returned to his old home in Dallas County, where he has since remained. He is Democratic in his political views, and a postmaster at Fairview. He is a member of both the Masonic and Odd Fellows lodges, and a member of the Methodist Church. He has always been a liberal and progressive citizen.

Back to top

Page 724-25
Rev. Thomas Q. C. HOUSE, local elder in the Methodist Episcopal Church, South, and farmer, Holly Springs, Ark. The influence and personal example which this humble and worthy minister of the gospel casts about him in every day life can not but be beneficial to those who enjoy the privilege of his companionship, for by no means the least of his gifts in the transcendent power of personal quality. He was born in Brunswick County, Va., in 1828, and is the son of Guilford Ludley and Rebecca (WHITE) HOUSE, both natives also of the Old Dominion, where they spent their entire lives, the father dying in 1832, and the mother about a year later. Both were members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and Mr. HOUSE was a school teacher by profession. He was of English-Dutch origin. After the death of his parents, Thomas Q. C. HOUSE moved with his uncle, Theophilus White, to Meriwether County, Ga., when he was seven years old, and lived with Amasa WHITE, another uncle, until he (WHITE), moved from the State, which occurred in a short time. He then went to live with Adam Spivey, and remained with him until the latter’s death, afterward making his home with Rev. J. B. Hogue, until he married. He received very little schooling, not more than eighteen month altogether, but by close application at school and in after life he became a fair English scholar. In the winter of 1845-46, he went to Izard County, Ark., then to Dallas County, where he farmed and taught school. He was married in 1848, in Ouachita County, to Miss Mary M. BELL, a native of Tennessee, and the daughter of Leander S. and Elizabeth P. BELL. Her parents moved from Tennessee to Arkansas in 1845, settled in Ouachita County, and there both died, the father about 1873, and the mother in 1888. Both were members of the Methodist Church for many years. To Mr. and Mrs. HOUSE were born fifteen children, seven sons and three daughters living, and all in Dallas County. Since his marriage, Mr. HOUSE has lived in the neighborhood of Holly Springs, where he has a fine home, 500 acres of land, a good steam gin and also a water-mill and gin. He is the third of four children, none of whom he has seen since growing up. About 1843 he united in the Methodist Church in Georgia, and in 1848 was licensed to preach, and ordained a deacon November 26, 1854, by Bishop Kavanaugh. He was ordained an elder November 7, 1858, by Bishop Early. Since that time, with the exception of one year, 1870, his ministry has been altogether local work, having preached over a large portion of Southern Arkansas and is still engaged in this good work. He has assisted in organizing many churches in Southern Arkansas, and has married many couples. He is an active temperance worker, and was a member of the P. of H., also is a member of the A. F. & A.M. Mrs. HOUSE has been a member of the Methodist Church since early girlhood, and her children all members of the same, with the exception of one.

Back to top

Page 725
Augustus H. KENDRICK, farmer, Fordyce, Ark. Mr. KENDRICK was born in Heard County, Ga., in 1833, and is the son of Hezekiah and Nancy (COOK) KENDRICK, natives of Georgia, born in Putnam and Butts Counties in 1803 and 1809, respectively. The parents were married in Henry County, Ga., but removed from there to Heard County, Ga., where they resided a few years and then, in 1847, emigrated to Dallas County, Ark. They settled near where Fordyce now stands, and there the father died in 1851 and the mother in 1857. Both were members of the Methodist Church. Mr. KENDRICK was a farmer, and continued this occupation all his life. His father John KENDRICK, was of English descent, and died in Putnam County, Ga. The material grandfather, John Cook, of Irish descent, died in Heard County, Ga. Of the six children born to his parents, Augustus H. KENDRICK was the fourth in order of birth, and was principally reared in Arkansas, and from the age of thirteen mostly in his present neighborhood. After the death of his father, the support of the family fell on his shoulders, and he learned the tanner’s trade, which he followed for many years. In 1861 he married Miss L. J. LANG, a native of Macon County, Ga., and the daughter of David and A. LANG, who moved to Dallas County, Ark., from Alabama in 1848. Mrs. LANG died in 1848 and Mr. LANG in 1851. To Mr. and Mrs. KENDRICK were born four children, one son and one daughter now living, viz.: Sarah H. (wife of Albert FOWLER), and Hezekiah. Mr. KENDRICK has improved one farm in Dallas County, and has followed agricultural pursuits for fifteen years. In politics he was reared a Democrat, casting his first presidential vote for James Buchanan in 1856, but he is now strictly independent. He is a member of the A.F. & A.M., Fordyce Lodge, and himself and wife belong to the Methodist Episcopal Church, of which he has been a member since seventeen years of age.

Back to top

Page 725-26
La Fayette L. LOCHRIDGE, hardware merchant, Fordyce, Ark. Fordyce ranks deservedly high as a commercial center, and prominent among its resources is the trade carried on in hardware. Identified with this trade deserving of notice is La Fayette LOCHRIDGE, who is a member of the Fordyce Hardware Company, which was organized in September 1888, and is one of the leading mercantile firms of that city. Mr. LOCHRIDGE was born in Maury County, Tenn., in 1827, and is a son of Thomas M. and Deborah (WRIGHT) LOCHRIDGE, both natives of Tennessee, who were born in Maury County, in 1797 and 1800, respectively. The parents were wedded in Bedford County, and settled in Maury County, where, with the exception of two years spent in Alabama, they lived until about 1847, and then removed to Arkansas, Dallas County, where the father was engaged in farming the remainder of his life. He died in 1862, and she in 1872; both were members of the Methodist Church for many years. Mr. LOCHRIDGE was a very successful farmer, one of the best in the county, and was a member of the Masonic fraternity. His father, James LOCHRIDGE, was born in England, and soon after his marriage came to America, where he settled in Maury County, Tenn., and was among the earliest settlers of that State. There he and his wife died. Of the four children born to his parents, La Fayette L. LOCHRIDGE is the eldest, and three are now living. He was early taught the duties of farm life, and received his education in the common schools. He began for himself as a farmer, at the age of twenty years, and in 1856 was married to Miss Anna LULLENBERGER, a native of Knoxville, Tenn., who came with her parents to Arkansas at an early day. To this union were born eight children, four sons and one daughter, now living. Mrs. LOCHRIDGE died in July 1876, and Mr. LOCHRIDGE was married the second time in July, 1877, to Miss Fannie JONES, daughter of John JONES, who moved from Mississippi to Texas and thence to Dallas County, Ark., about 1860, where re received his final summons. He was justice of the peace for some time. Mrs. LOCHRIDGE was born in Mississippi, and by her marriage became the mother of seven children-three sons and four daughters. In 1862, Mr. LOCHRIDGE joined Company C, of Col. Grinstead's infantry corps, and operated in Arkansas and Texas. He was captured several times, and surrendered at Marshell, Tex. He then engaged in agricultural pursuits, which he continued until 1888, but for some time previous to that had become interested in merchandising in Fordyce, where he then made his home. He is the owner of several lots besides the one on which he is living, and has a good business house in Fordyce. He has been a member of the Masonic fraternity for about forty years, and is the oldest Mason (who was made a Mason in this county), with the exception of one, in the county. He and Mrs. LOCHRIDGE have been members of the Methodist Church for many years.

Back to top

Page 726
John S. MANN, one of the old and prominent citizens of Princeton Township, Dallas County, was born in Robertson County, Tenn., September 2, 1837, and is the son of John and Catherine (SCOGGIN) MANN, natives of Person County, N.C. Both died on the farm where our subject now lives; he is 1866, at the age of sixty-three years, and the mother when quite a young woman. They left their native State, and moved to Middle Tennessee, remaining in Robertson County until 1846, when they moved to Dallas County, Ark. The county was then a wilderness, and Mr. MANN passed the balance of his days in clearing his farm and improving it in every way. He and wife were members of the Presbyterian Church, and he was a member of the S. of T. He affiliated with the Democratic party in his political views. After the death of his wife, Mr. MANN married Miss Martha HIGHTOER, who died in this county, August 28, 1885, being eighty-two years old. John S. MANN was the fifth of eight children, four now living: Margaret E. (widow of J. T. TAYLOR), Mary C. (wife of R. H. HARRISON), and D. J. (who is a farmer of Owen Township, this county). Those deceased were William P. (died while in the Confederate service), James M. (was also a Confederate soldier, and died while in service), Rachel (died in Tennessee) and Martha Ann (wife of G. W. GREEN, Sr., died in Dallas county). John S. MANN passed his boyhood and youth in Dallas County, and at the breaking out of the war, or in 1861, he joined the Twelfth Arkansas Confederate Infantry, and after the first year was made second lieutenant. He was afterward promoted to first lieutenant, and was in many battles. He was at the surrender of Fort Thompson, on the Mississippi River, and Island No. 10, when it was taken, and escaped, with fourteen others, by floating down the river in an old coal barge. He was then in the battles of Perryville (Ky.), and Port Hudson, where he was taken prisoner, and retained at New Orleans. On October 16 he was taken to Johnson Island, and in April of 1863 he was taken to Point Lookout, then to Fort Delaware, where he was released, June 13, 1865. He then returned home, found his parents in an impoverished condition, took charge of the farm, which he managed until after the death of the father, and then took care of his stepmother until her death, also taking care of the rest of the family. January 30, 1868, he married Miss Hepsie DANIEL, a native of Arkansas, and the daughter of William DANIEL. She died January 30, 1870, and on November 16, 1871, he married Miss Jennie WINSTEAD, a native of Person County, N.C., and the daughter of Capt. Stephen WINSTEAD, who moved to Arkansas in 1857. Four children were born to this union: Minnie B., Charles E., Stephen W., and Albert S., all at home. Mr. MANN is a member of the Missionary Baptist Church, and is deacon in the same. Mrs. MANN is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, South. In politics Mr. MANN is Democratic, and socially he is a member of the Masonic fraternity and Agricultural Wheel.

Back to top

Page726
William H. MARSHALL, farmer and stockman, Holly Springs, Ark. The parents of Mr. MARSHALL, Francis and Elizabeth A. (PENIC) MARSHALL, were natives of Prince Edward County, VA, and were reared and married there. In 1836 they removed to Madison County, Ala., thence to Lincoln County, Tenn., then back to Alabama, and in 1852 came to Arkansas. There Mr. MARSHALL died on March 16 of the following year. The Mother died in Calhoun County in 1882, both being formerly members of the Baptist Church, but in later years became Presbyterians. After the death of Mr. MARSHALL, his widow joined the Baptist Church again. He was captain of the militia for some time, and during the removal of the Indians from Alabama, he was captain of a company. He was justice of the peace while living in Alabama. The paternal grandfather, Richard MARSHALL, was a native of Virginia, and a farmer. The maternal grandfather, Thomas PENIC, was also a native of Virginia. William H. MARSHALL, the fourth of nine children, two sons and two daughters now living, divided his time in early youth in assisting on the farm and attending the common schools. He came with his parents to Arkansas, and was married on September 27, 1853, to Miss Emma A. WILLIAMS, a native of Franklin County, Ala., and the daughter of Henry and Eliza Ellen WILLIAMS, natives of Virginia and Alabama, respectively. Her parents moved from Alabama to Dallas County, Ark., in 1850, and there both died. The father was killed about the year 1879, and his widow received her final summons a few years later. Both were members of the Christian Church. Six children were born to Mr. And Mrs. MARSHALL: Eliza A. (wife of W. L. PARHAM, of Texas), Levilla Frances (wife of A. J. CHANDLER), William H., Kate Emma (wife of A. B. TOWLER), Alice (wife of Ed. SHUGART), and Frank Robert. When first married, Mr. MARSHALL settled in the woods on his present farm, and now is the owner of 909 areas of land, with 200 areas under cultivation on Mill Creek. He is one of the first-class farmers and stock-raisers of the county, and is a man of energy and perseverance. In 1861, he joined a regiment of Arkansas Infantry, and operated in Arkansas, Texas and Louisiana. He was in the fights at Prairie Grove, Jenkins’ Ferry and Mansfield. The army was disbanded at Marshall, Tex., and Mr. MARSHALL returned home. During the time he was in service he took the measles, and was disabled for over a year. In politics he is a Democrat, his first presidential vote being for James Buchanan in 1856. He is member of the Masonic fraternity, La Burta Lodge, Princeton, Mo. He and wife and two daughters are members of the Christian Church.

Back to top

Page 727
Col. Robert MARTIN, one of the most prominent citizens of Dallas County, owes his nativity to Wilkes County, N. C., where he was born February 4, 1819, and is the son of William and Matilda (MITCHELL) MARTIN, natives of North Carolina, also. The father was born November 6, 1786, and died November 3, 1867, when eighty-one years of age. He married in North Carolina in 1805, to Miss MITCHELL, who was born in 1776, and who died December 22, 1855, when sixty-nine years of age. They emigrated from North Carolina to Alabama, in 1820, located in Madison County, and there resided until the autumn of 1855, when they came to Arkansas to live with their son, the subject of this sketch. The parents were devoted Christian people, Baptists in sentiment, but not members of any church. He was a Whig in politics, and until the war was a Union man, but when the crash came he was with the South. He was a soldier in the War of 1812, and was the son of Robert MARTIN, who occupied a prominent position in North Carolina, at different times, being clerk the principal part of his life, and also holding other official positions of prominence. Robert MARTIN was in the Revolutionary War, under Gen Washington, and died in Wilkes County, N. C. The MARTIN family was of Irish, and the MITCHELL family of Scotch descent. The maternal grandfather of our subject, Andrew MITCHELL, was born in Iredell County, N. C., followed farming in that State the principal part of his life, and there received his final summons. Col. Robert MARTIN, the eldest son and sixth child of twelve children, received a very liberal education at Huntsville, Ala., graduating at the Huntsville Academy, and in 1839, he turned his attention to the general mercantile business until 1860. He was unusually successful, and at that time had made up his mind to retire. Before the war he was colonel of the State Militia, and after that he became the conscript officer. On October 12, 1863, he was taken prisoner by Col. Powel Clayton, but was soon afterward released. In 1866 Mr. MARTIN went to Pine Bluff, and again engaged in commercial life with the firm known as Lee, Martin & Co., but failed, financially. He afterward paid up all his ineptness. Since 1867 he has been farming, and is the owner of large tracts of land, 4,000 acres or more. Many years previous to the war, or on March 13, 1844, he married Miss Mary SMITH, a native of Granville County, N. C., born April 10, 1826, and the daughter of Dr. William S. SMITH of Lincoln County, Tenn. To this union the following children were born: Thomas B. (a prominent attorney of Little Rock), Smith C. (an attorney at Pine Bluff), Richard H. (at home), William S. (who died in infancy), James R. (deceased, was an attorney), and Dr. John W. (who died at Collins Station, Ark.). Col. MARTIN and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, South, she having been a member for fifty years or more. He is a Democrat in his political preferment, and socially is a member of the Masonic fraternity. In 1877 he was elected to represent Dallas County in the Legislature, and has held other positions of note.

Back to top

Page 727-28
Dr. Moses J. MITCHELL, physician, Holly Springs, Ark. Dr. MITCHELL is a man of decided intellectual ability, is ever ready to obey the call of all classes, and is in truth a physician of thorough learning and experience. He was born in Edgecombe County, N. C., in 1833, and is the son of Mortica and Delia (McDADE) MITCHELL, natives of Virginia and North Carolina, respectively. They were married in North Carolina (whither Mr. MITCHELL had emigrated when a young man), in 1837, and later moved to Tennessee, and then in 1847 to what is now Calhoun County, Ark. After that the father was in Texas for about two years, but returned to Arkansas, and there died, in Nevada County, in 1868. He was a farmer and also followed merchandising. He was a member of the Baptist church, and socially was a member of the Masonic fraternity. His father, James MITCHELL, was born in Virginia, and died there. He was of Irish descent and was a farmer by occupation. The maternal grandfather of our subject, John McDADE, was born in North Carolina and there passed his last days. Dr. Moses J. MITCHELL was reared on the farm and secured a fair education in the county schools. About 1855 he began the study of medicine, and began practicing in Bradley County, continuing from 1858 for one year. He then located at Holly Springs, where he has since resided, with the exception of two years that he spent in other parts of Dallas County, and is one of the oldest physicians of the same. In 1861 he enlisted in Company D, Twelfth Arkansas Infantry, as sergeant, and after about three months was promoted to surgeon of his regiment, pro tem. Soon after he was made assistant surgeon of the Thirty-third Arkansas Infantry, and served eight months, but failing health caused him to refugee to Texas, where he remained until the close of the war. He was married on December 7, 1863, to Miss Sarah C., daughter of John and Julia JUNIEL, both natives of Virginia, where they were married. About 1848 they came to Ouachita County, Ark., were the Mother died in 1858, but the father is still living. Mrs. MITCHELL was born in the Old Dominion, and by her marriage became the mother of two children, a son and daughter: Mary (wife of Robert H. TERRY), and John W. Dr. MITCHELL is the owner of about 800 acres in different counties, and a good home in Holly Springs. He is a Democrat in his political views, and his first presidential vote was for James Buchanan in 1856. He is the present master of St. John’s Lodge No. 38, Masonic fraternity, at Holly Springs. Mrs. MITCHELL is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

Back to top

Page 728
John NUTT, general Merchant, Fordyce, Ark. This gentleman is a member of the firm of Nutt & Son, general merchants of Fordyce, and is one of the prominent business men of that city. He owes his nativity to Alabama, where his birth occurred in 1828, and is th son of Rev. Sampson and Mary (SPEARS) NUTT, who were probably born in Alabama, and who moved to Shelby County, Tennessee when our subject was an infant. There they resided until 1848, when they came to Dallas County, Ark., settled in the woods, improved a good farm and there received their final summons, she dying during the War, and he afterwards. Both were members of the Baptist Church for many years. Mr. NUTT was a ginwright by trade and was also a minister for many years, preaching the Gospel all over Southern Arkansas. His father, William NUTT, died in Greene County Ark. The maternal grandfather of our subject, John SPEARS, died in Dallas County, Ark., at an age of one hundred and five years, and his wife also died in that county at an advanced age. John NUTT was the second of seven sons and three daughters, who grew to mature years with limited educational advantages common in those days. He came with his parents to Arkansas, and was married there on September 10, 1850, to Miss Josephine EAGLE, whose father died when she was still quite young. This union resultd in the birth of eight children, four sons and one daughter now living. Mrs. NUTT died in April, 1883, and Mr. NUTT's second marriage was in 1885, to Miss Katie FORTUNE, daughter of Walter and Polly FORTUNE, formerly of Alabama. Mr FORTUNE came to Arkansas about 1848, settled in Dallas County, and there died at the age of eight-three years. Mrs. NUTT was born in Alabama and by this marriage, became the mother of one son. Mr. NUTT is one of the early settlers of the county, where he has improved several good farms. He is the owner of 500 acres of land, and has considerable property in Fordyce, all fruits of his own labor since the War. During that eventful period, he served for three years in the Confederate Army, Company K, of Col. Grinstead's regiment of infantry, and operated in Arkansas and Louisiana. He was in the siege of Vicksburg, but was home on furlough at the time of surrender. In politics he has been Democratic all his life, and his first presidential vote was cast for Franklin Pierce in 1852. Mr NUTT is one of the pioneer and sturdy farmers and stock-raisers of Dallas County, and is well known as an honest, industrious citizen. For years he and wife have been honorary members of the Missionary Baptist Church.

Back to top

Page 728
Dr. E. H. M. PARHAM, Physician and surgeon, Fordyce, Ark. Dr. PARHAM, whose time since residing here has been entirely devoted to the relief of suffering humanity, was born in Brunswick County, VA. In 1816, and is the son of Thomas and Elizabeth PARHAM, natives of Dinwiddie County, VA, where they resided many years after marriage. They then removed to Brunswick County, of that State, and there the father died, in 1857, at the age of ninety-three years. His wife died a few years before. He was justice of the peace for some time, was deputy sheriff of Petersburg, and was a successful agriculturist. His father, Ephraim PARHAM, was of English descent, and was among the early colonists of Virginia. He passed his last days in that State. The maternal grandfather William BATTE, was of English descent, and was a wealthy farmer of Prince George County, VA. He also died in that State. Dr. E. H. M. PARHAM was next to the youngest of thirteen children born to his parents, and is the only one living. Of the children, Thomas and William were both successful physicians, and graduates of the University of Pennsylvania, at Philadelphia. The former died in Dallas County, Ark., and with the exception of our subject, was the only one ever came west. Dr. William died in Virginia, and was the father of Prof. William C. PARHAM, who is known throughout Arkansas as one of that State's best educators, and is at present a professor of ancient languages in the Female College, at Williamsburg, Ky. Dr. E. H. M. PARHAM received a good common school education, and later took up the study of Greek and Latin, Sacred History, ect., and prepared himself for college. In 1843, He graduated in medicine at the same place where his elder brother had graduated, and at once began practicing in the county of his birth, meeting with unusual success until 1857, when he moved to Northern Mississippi, and one year later to Dallas County, Ark. There he continued his practice with his usual success until 1884, since which time he has lived in Fordyce, where he still has a good practice. He is one of the oldest physicians in Dallas County, and one of the oldest in Southern Arkansas, having practiced for nearly fifty years. He was the owner of about 1,000 acres of land, and good property in Fordyce, all the result of his own efforts since the war. He was married in March, 1843, to Miss Tobitha A. BARNER, a native of Brunswick County, Va., and was the daughter of John and Sarah BARNER, natives of the Old Dominion, where Mr. BARNER spent all his life. He was a well-to-do Farmer. His brother, Harrison BARNER, was a solider in the Revolutionary War, and was in the battle of Guilford Court House. To the Doctor and wife were born two children: Robert W. (a farmer), and Elizabeth (who died at her father’s, in Dallas, Ark.). In politics the Doctor has been a Democrat all his life, and his first presidential vote was for Van Buren, in 1840. He has been a member of the A. F. & A. M. for over thirty years, demitted from Holly Springs Lodge. He has been a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, South, in good standing, for forty-five years. Dr. PARHAM lost his helpmate and faithful companion through life may 21, 1889. She was sixty-six years of age. Their son Robert W., when about seventeen years of age, joined the Confederate army, with Capt. Earl, Third Arkansas Cavalry, and fought in nearly all the Confederate States, and at the close of the war was a special scout of Capt Shannon, of Texas. He was with Gen. Johnston’s army in many severe engagements, and was absent nearly five years. He was educated in Virginia, Mississippi, Arkansas and Texas, and was married January 3, 1867, to Miss H. J. ENGLISH, who was born and reared in Texas, and died August 25, 1887, at the age of thirty-nine years, leaving six children, four sons and one daughter living. She was also a member of the Methodist Church. Robert W. also lives in Fordyce, but still carries on the farm.

Back to top

Back to top

Page 730
Judge Thomas PETERSON, farmer, Pine Grove, Ark., Among the many substantial and successful agriculturists of Dallas County, stands the name of Mr. PETERSON, who is not only a tiller of the soil but is an honored and much respected citizen. He owes his nativity to Bibb County, Ala., where he was born in 1821, and is the second of five children-three sons and two daughters- subject and one sister now living, born to the union of Thomas and Susannah (SHADDOCK) PETERSON, natives of Edgefield District, S.C., and born in 1784 and 1799, respectively. The parents were married in Jasper County, Ga., in 1817, and in 1822, to Perry County, and in 1837 to Coosa County, Ala., where Mr. PETERSON died in 1847, his wife following him to the grave in 1864. Both were members of the Primitive Baptist Church for many years. Mr. PETERSON was a farmer and wheelwright by occupation. He was a soldier in the War of 1812, stationed at Georgetown, S.C., and was a man who had the respect and esteem of all who knew him. The paternal grandfather, Thomas PETERSON, died in Edgefield District, S.C., and was of Welsh descent. The maternal grandfather, Samuel SHADDOCK, was born in South Carolina, but when Mrs. PETERSON was young, removed to Alabama, where he passed his last days. He was a farmer and a member of the Methodist Church as was also his wife. Judge Thomas PETERSON received two and three month's schooling each year until grown, and then engaged in the teacher's profession in Alabama. He was married in 1841 to Miss Louisa C. MAHAN, a native of the Blue Grass State, and the daughter of Thomas and Amy MAHAN, the former receiving his final summons in Kentucky. The MAHAN family removed to Jackson County, Ala., about 1826, and in 1835 moved to Coosa County. Mrs. MAHAN came to Arkansas with our subject, and died there in 1857. She was a member of the Baptist Church for many years. To the marriage of Mr. & Mrs. PETERSON were born nine children, eight of whom are now living: Alfred M., Amy S. (deceased), Ruth J. (widow of James WALKER), Parmelia E. (wife of Thomas J. EVERETT), Sarah A. (wife of J. N. SEALE), Thomas, James S., Eliza M. (wife of Jasper SEALE), and Lucy A.(wife of Perry SEALE). In 1850, Mr. PETERSON moved to Dallas County, Ark., settled near Holly Springs, improved a farm and there resided until 1860 when he moved to the town and engaged in merchandising. This he continued until 1864, when he returned to the arduous duties of the farm, and in 1868 moved on his present farm consisting of 260 acres. He was in the Confederate army from October, 1863 to April, 1864, of the State troops, and fought at Poison Springs and Mark's Mill, where he was badly wounded in the left arm and hip, which disabled him for a number of years, and in 1880 was elected county and probate judge of Dallas County, Being re-elected three terms in succession, serving six years in all, when he declined further service. In politics he has been a Democrat all his life, and his first presidential vote was cast for James K. Polk in 1844. He has been a member of the Primitive Baptist Church since 1851, and his wife has been a member of the same since 1838 or 1839. While living in Coosa County, Ala., from 1848 up to the time he removed to Arkansas, Judge PETERSON was commissioner of roads and revenue.

Back to top

Page 730-31
William H. P'POOL, manufacturer, Fordyce, Ark. Mr. P'POOL, one of the most enterprising and successful businessmen of Fordyce, is of the Acruman, P'Pool Woolen Manufacturing of Fordyce, established in 1886, and which is doing a flourishing business. They manufacture seventy-five pounds of yarn per day and 150 yards of jeans in the same length of time. They also have a good cotton and corn-mill attached. Mr. P'POOL was born in Wright County, Mo, in 1845, and is the son of Judge Abraham and Mary (CRIDER) P'POOL, the father a native of Virginia and the mother a native of Indiana. The parents were married in Wright County, Mo., in 1845, and there they make their home at the present time, the father engaged in farming. He was county judge for five years before the war, and tax collector afterwards. He was in the Missouri State Militia, and socially is a member of the Masonic fraternity. He has been a member of the Methodist Church for a great many years, and his wife a member of the Baptist. William H. P’POOL, the eldest of a large family, received a fair education in the common schools, and when but fifteen years of age enlisted in Company D, Third Missouri Cavalry of Gen. Marmaduke’s brigade and was at Pine Bluff, Ark., Jenkins’ Ferry, Camden, Poison Springs, Little Rock, Lake Village, Mark’s Mill, etc. He was captured during the winter of 19864-65 near Chambersville, Ark., and imprisoned at Little Rock until the end of the war. He then returned to Calhoun County to his wife, who had had married just before his capture in 1864, Miss Polly BRYANT, a native of Alabama, and the daughter of Bluford and Elizabeth BRAYANT, natives of Georgia and England, respectively. Mr. and Mrs. BRYANT were married in Georgia, and emigrated to Arkansas in 1860, where they passed their last days in Calhoun County. To Mr. and Mrs. P'POOL were born seven children, two sons and three daughters now living. The first six years after the war Mr. P'POOL resided in his native county engaged in tilling the soil, and then for eight or nine years he worked at blacksmithing and woodwork in Calhoun and Cleveland Counties, the firm being Haskins & P'Pool at New Edenburg. In 1880 or 1881 Mr. P'POOL and Mr. ACRUMAN built a woolen factory at Chambersville which they operated until 1885, when it was destroyed by fire. They then erected the building they now occupy at Fordyce. Socially Mr. P'POOL is a member of the Masonic fraternity, Fordyce No. 363, an was secretary of the same for a number of years. He is also a member of the K. of L. in politics he is Democratic. Mrs. P'POOL is a member of the Missionary Church.

Back to top

Page 731
William J. PROCTOR, general merchant, Fordyce, Ark. The trade carried on general merchandise is of a very great importance and constitutes a leading factor in the commercial fabric of the smaller towns and villages. It is a line of business requiring special qualifications of a high order, and only those possessed of these succeed in that somewhat precarious undertaking. Prominent among those engaged in this line in Fordyce is William J. PROCTOR. The specific business carried on by this gentleman was established in 1887, and he has a large and excellent stock of goods,. He owes his nativity to Marion County, S.C., where his birth occurred in 1836, and his parents, Jesse and Kittie E. (GRAVES) PROCTOR, were born in North Carolina in 1782 and South Carolina in 1876 respective. They both died in the last-named State, the father at the age of ninety-two years, and mother when eighty-two years of age, Both were for many years members of the Methodist Church, the father since the time he was seventeen years of age, and he was a successful tiller of the soil. His father, Shadrick PROCTOR, was probably born in Edgecombe County, N.C., resided for some time in South Carolina, but spent the later part of his life in his native State. He was of English parentage, and was a farmer by occupation. The maternal grandfather, Thomas GRAVES, was born in South Carolina, and there passed his final days. He was of Scotch-Irish and Dutch descent, and was also a farmer. William J. PROCTOR, was one of four children born to his father’s second marriage, and was reared and educated (rather limited) in his native county. He was married in 1859 to Miss Esther A. COLEMAN, a native of Marion County, S.C., who died in Dallas County, Ark. In 1868. To his union two daughters were born, one now living, Mr. PROCTOR’s second marriage occurred in October, 1869, to Miss Mary F. HENRY, a native of Mississippi, and the daughter of James and Mary Ann HENRY, natives of Alabama. Her parents came to Dallas County, Ark., in 1858, and there the father died in 1884. He was a merchant. His widow is living at Holly Springs. To Mr. and Mrs. PROCTOR were born five children—four sons and a daughter—all of whom are having the best advantages for an education. In 1859 Mr. PROCTOR came to Dallas County, an farmed until after the war, and in 1866 removed to Holly Springs, where he was engaged in merchandising, until his removal to Fordyce. He has over 2,000 acres of good timber land, and has a good residence and business building in Fordyce, all a result of his own exertions. He was justice of the peace for two years, and was postmaster at Red Bird post office during the war. In politics he has been a Democrat all his life, and his first presidential vote was for J. C. Breckinridge, in 1860. He has been a member of the Masonic fraternity for twenty-nine years, and he is now of Lodge No. 363, Fordyce, Ark. He is worshipful master of the lodge. He and wife have been members of the Methodist Church for many years.

Back to top

Page 731
Spirous ROGERS, one of the old and much esteemed citizens of the county, was originally from Tennessee, his birth occurring in Bedford County, April 10, 1816, and is the son of Henry and Sarah (JOHNSON) ROGERS, natives of North Carolina. Henry ROGERS died in Madison County, Tenn., in 1860, when seventy-five years of age, and his widow died in Dallas County, Ark., in 1867, when not less than one hundred fifteen years of age, he being the younger by many years. They were married in North Carolina, but moved to Middle Tennessee, and thence to Madison County, where the father died. The mother then came to live with her son, Spirous, and passed her declining years in his home. She was a very bright, intelligent woman, and could tell all about her childhood days, but remembered little or nothing of what happened in later years. She was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church for ninety years or more, could remember the Revolutionary War, and that her father, Jonathan Johnson, participated in it, and remembered all the first Presidents, etc. She was the mother of eleven children, but only one now living, besides our subject, who was the tenth in order of birth. The latter was reared to an early knowledge of the farm, and received his education in Madison County, where he remained until twenty-one years of age. He then started out as an agriculturist, and this has continued ever since, first in Hardeman County, Tenn., and finally in Arkansas, whither he moved as early as 1845. In 1848 he moved to Dallas County, and settled on his present farm, which was then in the woods. He is now the owner of 500 acres of land, and has 100 acres prepared for cultivation, etc. In 1837 he married Miss Elizabeth F. CASEY, of Hardeman County, Tenn., who was born in 1817, and who died in Dallas County, Ark., in 1875. Seven children were born to this marriage, three sons and two daughters now living. In March, 1877, Mr. ROGERS married Miss Mary PORTERFIELD, a native of Tennessee, who bore him three children—two daughters and a son. During the late war Mr. ROGERS served in Flippin’s regiment, Confederate army, and served as lieutenant and first orderly. While in Tennessee he was lieutenant of militia. He has served eighteen years as constable, and it is hardly necessary to ad that he filled that position in a highly credible manner. He is a Democrat in politics, is a member of the Masonic fraternity, and he and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, South. Sampson ROGERS, brother of our subject, is now over one hundred years of age, but looks as young as a great many men who are fifty or sixty years of age. He is a farmer.

Back to top

Page 732
Capt. A. S. RUSSELL, justice of the peace, and farmer, Pine Grove, Ark. Capt. RUSSELL is a prominent agriculturist, residing in Dallas County, and like the majority of people who claim the State of Alabama as their birthplace, he is enterprising, intelligent and thrifty. His parents, Ephraim W. and Mary (VAUGHN) RUSSELL, were natives of Georgia, and both born in the year 1801. They were married in Alabama, and there resided until 1840, when they came to Arkansas, and made their home in Saline County, until 1842, when they came to what is now Dallas County, settling in the woods near where our subject now resides. There the father tilled the soil and lived for thirteen years, farmed until his death, in 1860. His wife died in 1850. Both were members of the Baptist Church for many years. When they first settled in Arkansas the country was very wild, wild animals abounded, and the nearest post-office was at Rockport, about forty miles distant. Camden was then a small trading post. Mr. RUSSELL had a little steel hand-mill a number of years, and on this ground his corn, there being no wheat raised for some years. He assisted in surveying and making the first road in the country. His father Caleb RUSSELL, was probably born in Georgia and died in Alabama, and his father was from Ireland. Caleb RUSSELL’s wife, whose maiden name was Nancy GRADY, was of Welsh descent, and died in Alabama. Grandfather, James VAUGHN was born in Georgia, and died in Alabama. Capt. A. S. RUSSELL was born in Perry County, Ala., in 1827, and was the eldest of five children born to his father’s first marriage. He began his duties on the farm at an early age, and divided his time between this and in attending the common schools, where he received a fair education. At the age of twenty one years he entered his present tract of land which he has improved and has since made his home. He worked a number of years at the carpenter trade, and in May 1862, joined Company E, Twenty-ninth Trans-Mississippi Infantry, and held all the ranks to captain. He was in the fight of Prairie Grove and Helena, where he was captured and was imprisoned at Alton, Ill., for about one month. He was then taken to Johnson Island, where he was held until January 9, 1865, when he was exchanged and returned to his company, having been commissioned captain while in prison. He operated in Arkansas, Louisiana and Texas; disbanded Marshall, Tex., in May 1865, and returned to the farm, where he now has 150 acres. He served as justice of the peace prior to the war, and has held that position to the satisfaction of all nearly ever since, there being only two appeals taken to the circuit court. In politics he was formerly a Whig, but now affiliates with the Democratic party, and his first vote was for Gen. Scott, in 1852. He has been a member of the Masonic fraternity since 1865, Manchester Lodge No. 16, and was secretary of the same. He is now a member of Russell Lodge (named for him), the Agricultural Wheel, and a representative citizen.

Back to top

Page 732-33
Robert F. SISSON, farmer and stockman, Ramsey, Ark. The subject of this sketch, a widely known and respected influential citizen of this township, was born in Arkansas in 1848, and is the only child of Thomas W. and Mary L. (CRAFT) SISSON. Mrs. SISSON was probably born in Alabama, where she was married a Mr. NEEL, and by him became the mother of nine children, one, Franklin NEEL, now of Texas. It was at a very early day when Mr. and Mrs. NEEL received his final summons. Mrs. NEEL then married Mr. SISSON, was born in Alabama in 1811, and who came to Dallas County, Ark., when a young man. After his marriage in that State, he located in the woods, where his son now resides, and there spent the balance of his days as an honest, industrious farmer and stockman. He was a great hunter and sportsman. He was a member of the Primitive Baptist Church, an socially was a Royal Arch Mason. After his death Mrs. SISSON married Thomas GIBSON, and removed to Pine Bluff, to educate her son, Robert F. About this time the war broke out, and they returned to the farm, where Mrs. Gibson in 1881, at the age of about seventy-three years. She was a member of the Missionary Baptist Church. Robert F. SISSON received his education in the country schools and at Pine Bluff, and during the latter part of the war served as courier for Gen. Churchill. He surrendered at Marshall, Tex. On April 22, 1865, he married Miss Nancy WAMMACK, a native of Alabama, and the daughter of Kinchen and Mary WAMMACK. Mrs. WAMMACK died in Alabama, and afterwards Mrs. WAMMACK moved to Dallas County, Ark., and there her life terminated. To Mr. and Mrs. SISSON were born nine children—three sons and six daughters—all living. Mr. SISSON has spent nearly all his life on the farm of his birth, and still preserves the log house in which he was born, and in which his father died, although he recently has built a large and commodious frame house. He is the owner of about 500 acres of land, raises lot of sheep, cattle, horses and mules. In politics he has been a Democrat all his life, and still adheres to that party. He is a member of the Farmers’ Alliance, and a man respected and esteemed by all. His wife was formerly a member of the Missionary Baptist Church.

Back to top

Page 733
Pleasant H. SMITH, Planter, Ramsey, Ark. On January 16, 1837, there was born to the marriage of Joseph N. & Martha (HOLLEY) SMITH, a son, whom we now take as the subject of this sketch. He was the eldest of the three children born to his fathers first marriage: J.J. SMITH (a farmer of Marion County, GA), and Sarah (who is now in Texas). Pleasant H. SMITH passed his boyhood and youth in Georgia, and in 1850 was married to Miss Elizabeth LINGO, who was born on February 14, 1837, and who is the daughter of J. R. T. LINGO, of Marion County, GA. Four sons and four daughters were born to this marriage, all now residing in this county: Sarah E. (wife of W, J. FAWCETT, a farmer). J.W. (at home), J.N., Ida M., Jennie, Henderson and M. E. In 1860, Mr. SMITH joined Sumter County Artillery, organized at Americus, in which he served until the close of the war. He served in many battles, and although nearly always in the thickest of the fight he escaped without injury. He was in the seven days fight around Richmond, was in the battle of the Wilderness, Chancellorsville, Gettysburg and with Gen. Lee at the surrender. After the war he returned home to Georgia and began farming in Marion County. Two years later he moved to Arkansas, locating in Dallas County, and two years later still moved to his present place of residence. Previous to this, however, he purchased a gin and soon after the war, he had the grit to persevere, and is now the owner of 320 acres of land, with good portion under cultivation. He and wife are members of the Missionary Baptist Church, and he is a deacon in the same. He is a Democrat, politically, and socially is a member of the A.F.&A,M. The parents of our subject were natives of Franklin County, Ga., and the father died in Marion County, of that State in 1875, when about thirty-five years of age. The mother died in Webster County, Ga., on May 4, 1851, and was about thirty-five years of age. They were married in Franklin County, Ga., and in 1846 moved to Benton County, Ala., remaining there but a short time when they moved back to Georgia, settling in Cass County. Later they moved to Webster County, where the mother died, and the father moved to Marion County, where he carried on farming until his death. He was the owner of some valuable property, both in Marion & Webster Counties, and while a resident of Franklin County, Ga., he served several terms as justice of the peace, holding that office when he left the county. After the death our subjects mother he married Miss Patsy ELLIOTT, of Georgia, who died recently in that State. He was an ember of the Masonic fraternity, and in politics was strictly Democratic.

Back to top

Page 733-34
Judge Samuel H. SMITH, probate and county judge of Dallas County, Ark., is conceded to be one of the leading spirits of Dallas County, and is a man of sound practical judgment. He is a native-born resident of the county, his birth occurring August 28, 1850, and is the son of Benjamin M. & Annie W. (SMITH) SMITH, natives of North Carolina. Both parents died in this county, the father in 1877, when about fifty-five years of age, and the mother in 1871, at the age of forty-one years. They were married in Dallas County, and passed the remainder of their days, the father being engaged in tilling the soil. He was a large slave-holder prior to the late Civil War. Both were members of the Presbyterian Church, and he was the ruling elder in the same. After his wife's death Mr. SMITH married Annie W, SMITH, who is also deceased. By the first marriage were born thirteen children, and one by the last union. Of the former, eleven are now living, and Judge Samuel H. SMITH is the eldest in order of birth. He received a liberal education in Dallas County, and remained with his father until twenty-six years of age, when he commenced for himself as a farmer. He is the owner of some excellent land and cultivates ninety acres . In 1877 he was elected justice of the peace, and discharged the duties incumbent upon this office in a satisfactory manner for ten years. In 1888 he was elected county and probate judge, and filled this position in such a manner as to give assurance to honorable people that they had the right man in the right place. In 1877 he married Miss Cornelia LANGLEY, daughter of Dr. William B. LANGLEY, of Texas, and this union has been blessed by the birth of five living children, viz.: Cornelia Ann, Virginia, Henry, Mary A., William S. and Lennie L, Those deceased were Presley O., Annie W. and an infant. Judge SMITH is a stanch Democrat in his political views, and is an enterprising and public-spirited citizen. He and wife are members of the Presbyterian Church.

Back to top

Page 734
David B. SORRELLS, farmer, ginner and miller, Holly Springs, Ark. Holly Springs Township is acknowledged by all to be one of the best agricultural townships in this county, and as such its citizens are men of advanced ideas and considerable prominence. A worthy man among this class is found in the person of David B. SORRELLS. He is a native of Bedford County, Tenn., born in 1833, and the son of Andrew E. and Nancy (BROOKS) SORRELLS, native also of Bedford County, born in 1808 and 1810, respectively. They were married in their native county, and about 1835 removed to Marshall County, Miss., and thence to Arkansas in 1847, settling near where Holly Springs now stands. The father opened up four different farms in that vicinity, and died in 1875. He was one of the first settlers of the township, was justice of the peace for a number of years before the war, and at the time of his death was bailiff of his township. At an early day he was postmaster of Chapel post-office, and was an industrious and honest citizen. He and his wife were members of the Methodist Episcopal Church for a great many years, and both were great temperance workers. The mother is still living. The paternal grandfather, David SORRELLS, was a native of North Carolina, but was an early settler of Tennessee, where he was engaged in tilling the soil up to the time of his death. The maternal grandfather, John BROOKS, was also a native of North Carolina and an early settler of Bedford County, Tenn., where he died. He was a farmer by occupation, and he and wife were Methodists. David B. SORRELLS was the third of seven children—two sons and three daughters—now living. He was early taught the duties of farm life, received a country school education, and in 1854 was married to Miss Frances J. MOSLEY, daughter of Hardaway and Sarah J. MOSLEY, natives, respectively of North Carolina and Tennessee. Mr. and Mrs. MOSLEY were married in the last-name State, and in 1844 they moved to Ouachita County, Ark., where the mother died soon after. The father died in Dallas County in 1874. Mrs. SORRELLS was born in Tennessee in 1837 and died in 1886. By her marriage to Mr.SORRELLS she because the mother of nine children, four sons and four daughters now living: William T.,John D., Mary (wife of William MIZELL), Nancy E. (wife of Henry JONES), Sarah J., Amanda Nora, David Brooks and Charles H. With the exception of two years, 1867 and 1870, Mr. SORRELLS has lived in his present farm, consisting of 460 acres, and has 110 acres under cultivation. He also has a good steam gin and grist-mill, and is one of the foremost farmers of the county. In 1881 he erected a saw-mill, grist-mill and gin at Holly Springs, which he operated for quite a number of years. In January, 1862, he joined Company C, Thirty-third Arkansas Infantry, and operated in Arkansas, Louisiana and Texas. He fought at Pleasant Hill, La., Jenkins’ Ferry, Ark., and was wounded at the last place. He was discharged at Marshall, Tex., in May 1865. In politics he has been a Democrat all his life, and his first presidential vote was for James Buchanan in 1856. Socially he has been a member of the A. F. & A. M., St. John’s Lodge, at Holly Springs, for thirty years, and was junior warden. His eldest two sons are members of the same lodge. Mr. SORRELLS is also a member of the Agricultural Wheel, and he and wife have been members of the Methodist Church for many years. All but the two younger children are members of the same church.

Back to top

Page 735
William D. STELL, farmer and stock-raiser, Fordyce, Ark. The agricultural interests of Fordyce Township are ably represented by the subject of this sketch, a man whose entire life has been passed in the calling which now receives his attention. He is a native of Conway County, Ark, born in 1844, and was the fifth of nine children, two sons and three daughters now living, the result of the union of John K. and Rachel (STEEL) STELL, natives of Georgia. The parents were reared and married in their native state, and later, or about 1830, they came to Conway County, Ark., where they remained until 1845. They then moved to Dallas County, settled near Holly Springs, but moved from there to the neighborhood where our subject now resides, about 1847. There Mr. Steel died in 1878, at the age of sixty-two years. The mother is still living, and is seventy-four years of age. She is a member of the Methodist Church, and her husband was a member of the same for many years. The father was a farmer by occupation, was also a blacksmith, and was engaged in merchandising at Holly Springs and Tates Bluff for many years, and socially was a member of the Masonic fraternity. The grand father, Robert STELL, removed to Conway County, Ark., at an early day, and there died. William D. STELL was reared to farm labor, and received a liberal education in the common schools, and at Holly Springs. He served about nine months in the latter part of the war, and was an escort of Gen. Churchills. He surrendered at Marshall, Tex., in 1865, after which he returned to farm life. He was married in 1874 to Miss Mary Catherine GREEN, a native of Dallas County, and the daughter of Bailey S. and Elvira GREEN. Mr. and Mrs. GREEN came from Georgia to Dallas County, Ark., at an early day, and are still living there. Mr. GREEN was all through the Confederate army. To Mr. and Mrs. STEEL have been born five children three sons and two daughters. For twelve years Mr. STELL has lived on his present farm, five miles northwest of Fordyce, and has 720 acres of land. In politics he is Democratic, Mrs. STELL is a Methodist.

Back to top

Page 735
Robert B. STONE, a prominent citizen and a representative farmer of the county, was born in Perry County, Ala., on January 6, 1840, and his parents, William T. and Martha (RIVERS) STONE, were natives of the same State. The father moved from Alabama to Arkansas in 1848, located in Ouachita County, and there remained until his death, which occurred in 1888, when seventy-six years of age. The mother died in 1842,when quite a young woman. The father was a very successful farmer, but in connection with his occupation was also engaged in merchandising. In politics he was a Democrat. By his marriage were born two children: Robert S. and Julia (who was the wife of Rev. Mr. AUSTIN, a Methodist Episcopal minister, who died in Ouachita County). Robert B. STONE was educated in the schools of Union and Dallas Counties, but his studies were interrupted by the breaking out of the late war. He threw aside his books, and on May 2, 1861, enlisted in the First Confederate Infantry, and participated in a number of the principal engagement, viz.: Shiloh, Murfreesbro, and Perryville (Ky.). At the battle of Shiloh he received a severe wound. In 1863 he came home on a furlough, and was soon after transferred to the Trans-Mississippi department, and was in Fagans advance guard of cavalry. He was in Prices raid through Missouri, and in most all the battles from Pilot Knob to Webber Station. He was mustered out of service at Little Rock in April 1865, and returned home, where he remained until 1870, assisting his father to regain some little of the many thousands of dollars worth of property he had lost. Since then Mr. STONE has been unusually successful. He was married on September 22, 1863, to Miss Anna E. AVRY, a native of Ouachita County, and the daughter of Samuel F. AVRY. She died in October, 1880. Six children were born to this union, two now living, Junius and Claude. Those deceased are Willie Samuel, Robbie, Mary Lee and Iva. In February 1881, Mr. STONE married Miss Katie HOLMES, a native of Dallas County, and the daughter of Samuel and Martha HOLMES. Two children are the fruits of Mr. STONE's second marriage: James and Julia Rivers. Mr. STONE is one of the first-class citizens of the county, and is a liberal supporter of all laudable enterprises.

Back to top

Page 735
P. H. THOMAS, editor and general manager of the Enterprise, Fordyce, Ark. Printing, the first and finest of all mechanical arts, has ever counted in the ranks of its prosecutors and the best talent of all communities. So peculiarly has its uses been recognized and developed that a distinct difference has been made by it between the civilized and an uncivilized people. The Enterprise, one of the newsiest and most interesting newspapers in Southern Arkansas, has for its editor and manager Mr. P. H. THOMAS, a great reader, a deep thinker, and a man of sound judgment and good practical common sense. Mr. THOMAS was born in Dallas County, Ark., in 1854, and is the son of Phillip H. and Mary E. (ROUNSABILL) THOMAS, who were born in Virginia in 1826 and North Carolina in 1825, respectively. The parents spent the principal part of their lives in Dallas County, Ark., and there died, the father in 1879 and the mother in 1880. He was a merchant of Princeton, Ark., for a good many years, and during the late war he was enrolling officer. P. H. THOMAS was reared on the farm, and as he attended school but about thirteen months altogether, his education was obtained most wholly by his own exertions. He remained with and took care of his mother until after her death, and in 1881 was married to Nannie W. SMITH, a native of Dallas County, Ark., and the daughter of Samuel W. and Hester A. SMITH, early settlers of Dallas County, where they passed their latter days. The mother died in 1880, but the father died in 1864, from the result of imprisonment in the prison at Little Rock during the late war. Both were members of the Methodist Church. To Mr. and Mrs. THOMAS were born four children two sons and two daughters. Mr. THOMAS farmed until 1888, when he removed to Fordyce, and in 1889 was the means of establishing Fordyce District Fair, of which he is secretary. In 1890 he became manager and editor of the Enterprise, and his being a man of ability and energy accounts for his success as a journalist. In politics he is Democratic and his first presidential vote was cast for Gen. Hancock. He and wife are members of the Methodist Church. His father was one of the first settlers of Dallas County, and for many years one of the foremost citizens in many respects. He accumulated a fortune, which he lost the principal part of in the late war. He owned immense salt works and during the war manufactured salt for the Government.

Back to top

Page 736
William WALLACE, planter, Saline, Ark. Prominent among the old and highly esteemed citizens of the county, whose career has been both honorable and successful, is the subject of the present sketch, who was born in Halifax County, Va., on December 5, 1822. His father, Tandy WALLACE, was a native of Virginia, was a soldier in the War of 1812, and was a farmer all his life. He was a Democrat in politics. His death occurred in Virginia, where his wife and the mother of our subject, whose maiden name was Mary WELLS, was born, and where she passed her last days. William WALLACE, the fifth of six children, received a fair education in Virginia, and when of age started out for himself as a farmer, cultivating the soil for several years in the northern part of North Carolina. In 1848, he came to Arkansas, located in Chester township, Dallas County, but shortly after moved on his present farm, where he has since remained. He located in the woods, entered forty acres, and has since then has added to this 400 acres of as good lands as is to be found in the county, all the result of hard work and good management. He has over 100 acres under cultivation, and is wide awake and enterprising. He was married in 1845 to Miss Narcissa HALL, a native of Halifax County, Va., born in 1825, and the daughter of Pleasant HALL. Nine children were the fruits of this union: Mary J. (wife of H. H. CHANDLER, a farmer near Benton, Ark.), William M. (farmer), Martha (wife of Robert MITCHELL, a farmer of the county), James R. (farmer), Callie (wife of Luther MILLER, a farmer), Jennie, John, H. P., Jimmie and Eliza. Mr. WALLACE has always supported the Democratic ticket, and accepts its views as sound and well suited to any man.

Back to top

Page 736
William J. WALSH, who is also numbered among the substantial and much respected residents of the county, came originally from Virginia, his birth occurring in Chesterfield County, in 1822, and is the son of Thomas and Martha T. (BACHER) WALSH, natives also of the Old Dominion. The parents both died in Dallas County, Ark., the father on September 4, 1851, when about fifty-five years of age, and the mother on October, 1858, when about fifty-five years of age. They were married in their native State and moved from there to Fayette County, Tenn., in 1837, where they remained until 1848. They then came to Arkansas, located in Dallas County, and there received their final summons. The father was a millwright and worked at his trade the principal part of his life. In later years, however, he engaged in farming in connection with his trade, and was quite successful in both occupations. When a young man he built the Merchants Flouring Mill, at Pittsburg, Va., and while in Tennessee he owned mills at Moscow and other places. He was a Jeffersonian Democrat in his political views, and was a member of the Universalist Church. Mrs. WALSH was a member of the Baptist Church. Their union was blessed by the birth of seven children, four now living: Maria (widow of Dr. Willis WINSTEAD, deceased and residing in Lono, Hot Springs County, Ark.), John L (is a farmer of Dallas County), and Sarah (wife of Dr. LELI, of Cleveland). Those deceased were named: Lavinia, Bell, Martha T. and Elizabeth. William J. WALSH received his schooling in Virginia and Tennessee, and when seventeen years of age took charge of his fathers farm until the latter's death, when he purchased the old homestead, on which he has been residing ever since. He is the owner of 900 acres of land with a good portion under cultivation, and has contributed his full share to the agricultural development of this part of the county. On February 6, 1856, he married Miss Henrietta HOLMES, who was born in Mecklenburg County, Va., on September 25, 1837, and who was the daughter of Col. William T. M. HOLMES and Martha (GEE) HOLMES. Col. HOLMES was colonel of the Third Arkansas Confederate Infantry, was in many hard fought battles, and was killed at Hatchie Bend, or the battle of Corinth. He was a prominent citizen of Dallas County, and represented the same in the Legislature several times. He was prominent in church affairs and was a Methodist in his belief. To Mr. and Mrs. WALSH were born eight children: Thomas J., William M., Oliver G., Percy, Lula, Alice, Martha G. and Caspar. Mr. WALSH is a Democrat, and he and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, South, as are also four of the children. Miss. Alba OWENS, niece of Mr. WALSH, makes her home with the family. She is the daughter of William and Martha T. (WALSH) OWENS, the father at the present time residing in Louisiana, but the mother died in Dallas County. Mr. WALSH's thoroughness as a man, and good taste and industry as an agriculturist, are to be seen in the surroundings of his home place and he deserves the position in which he is held by so many in the community.

Back to top

Page 737
Dr. John A. WATERS, physician, surgeon and druggist, Fordyce, Ark. In a comprehensive work of this kind, dealing with industrial pursuits, sciences, arts and professions, it is only fit and right that that profession on which in some period or other of our lives the medical profession we are all more or less dependent, should be noticed, and much more so, when, in connection with it, is carried on the drug trade. Dr. WATERS was born in Alabama in 1862, and his parents, Alfred M. and Fannie B. (SEYMORE) WATERS, were natives of Alabama and North Carolina, respectively, the former born in 1833 and the latter in 1837. They (the parents) were married in what is now Cleveland County, Ark., and there passed the closing scenes of their life, the father dying in 1879 and the mother in 1878. He was a farmer by occupation, and was all through the Civil War, as a private in the Confederate army. The grandfather, John WATERS, was born in Georgia, was a Revolutionary soldier, followed farming for a livelihood, and died in Alabama. He was of Irish descent. The maternal grandfather, John SEYMOUR, was a native of North Carolina and an early settler of what is now called Cleveland County, Ark., where his death occurred before the late war. He was also a farmer by pursuit and a Revolutionary soldier. Dr. John A. WATERS, the second of seven children, five now living, was reared principally on the farm, and received a good education, mostly at the State University at Fayetteville, Ark. He graduated from the Missouri Medical College at St. Louis, in 1885, and at once began practicing at Fordyce, where he has since continued, and where, in connection with his practice, he established a drug store in 1887. He is he owner of considerable property in Fordyce, all the result of his own energy and perseverance. He was married in 1886 to Miss Cornelia BRYANT, a daughter of William and Sarah BRYANT, formerly of Alabama, but now of Dallas County. Mrs. WATERS was born in Cleveland County, Ark., and by her marriage became of the mother of one daughter. Mr. WATERS is a Democrat in politics, and his first presidential vote was for Grover Cleveland in 1884. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity at Fordyce.

Back to top

Page 737-38
John C. WELCH, a man respected and esteemed for his many good qualities, owes his nativity to Georgia, his birth occurring in Marion County, in 1834, and is the son of Marquis D. L. and Anna Streetman (WATSON) WELCH, natives of South Carolina. Both parents died in Angeline County, Tex., the father in 1864, when about sixty-give years of age, and the mother in 1852, when about sixty-three years of age They were married in Georgia, and moved from there to Dallas County, Ark., in 1845, locating on Cypress Creek, where they remained until 1852 or 1853, and then moved to Angeline County. There they received their final summons. He was a farmer all his life, and in that occupation was very successful. He and wife were members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, South, for many years, and he was class leader in the same. In politics he was a stanch Democrat. To their marriage were born five sons and five daughters, John C. being fifth in order of birth. The latter passed his school days in Dallas County, and when his parents went to Texas he remained in Dallas County, where he has farmed most of the time since. In 1855 he commenced the pottery business, where he now lives, and has continued this in connection with farming ever since. He has all kinds of vessels made from claychurns, crocks, jugs, flower-pots, etc. This is the only pottery in the county. Mr. WELCH is the owner of about 1,500 acres of land, and has a considerable portion under cultivation. During the late war he was on detached duty at the pottery. On December 28, 1858, he married Miss Mary E. NUNN, a native of Rockingham County, N.C., born in 1838, and the daughter of Admiral and Annie NUNN. Mrs. WELCH died in this county, on March 17, 1886, and left eight children, all living: John N., Annie L. (wife of Fleece Nor, a farmer of this county), Thomas B. (at home), Mary B. (at home), De Marquis D. L., Felix G., Dora F. and Mattie Amy Smith. Mr. WELCH and family are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, South, and in politics he affiliates with the Democratic party.

Back to top

Page 738
Rufus W. WILLIAMS, lumberman and merchant, Holly Springs, Ark. This prominent business man was originally from Butts County, Ga., where he was born in 1842, and was the fifth of nine children born to Dr. John W. and Martha (McCORD) Williams, He was early taught the duties of farm life, received his education in the common schools, and when the war broke out, enlisted in the Confederate Army, Company D, Twelfth Arkansas Infantry, and operated as orderly sergeant in Arkansas, Tennessee, Missouri, Kentucky, Louisiana and Georgia. He was captured at Island No. 10, and made his escape and joined his command. He was with Gen. Bragg though Kentucky, was at Corinth, Perryville, Port Hudson, Mansfield, Jacksons Ferry and others. He surrendered at Marshall Tex., in May 1965, and came home, where he was married in 1866 to Miss Fannie KEY, daughter of Joseph L. and Betsey KEY, natives of Georgia and Arkansas, respectively. Mr. KEY died in Holly Springs in 1852, but his widow is still living. Mrs. WILLIAMS was born in Butts County, Ga., and died in 1882. She left six children five boys and one daughter. Mr. WILLIAMS second marriage occurred in 1883, to Mrs. Addie GATSON, sister of his first wife, and a native of Dallas County, Ark. To this union were born five children. Mr. WILLIAMS has lived in and near Holly Springs since his residence in Arkansas, and is one of the leading and substantial citizens. For over twenty three years he has been engaged in the lumber and saw-mill business, owning a good water-mill and about 1,400 acres of good timber land on Tulip Creek. He has also been engaged in merchandising. His first presidential vote was for H. Seymour, in 1868, and he is a Democrat. He is treasurer of the Masonic fraternity, St. Johns Lodge no. 38, at Holly Springs, and a man universally respected. Mrs. WILLIAMS is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. The parents of our subject were born in North Carolina, were married in that State, and from there emigrated to Georgia, thence to Alabama, and finally, in 1854, to Dallas County, Ark., passing their last days at Holly Springs. The mothers death occurred in 1882, and the fathers in 1884. He was a very successful physician, followed his profession for fifty-four years, and was the oldest physician in this part of the State. He was county and probate judge of Butts County, Ga., for a number of years, and was a man of education and unusual intelligence. When he first settled in Arkansas there were but two physicians in twenty miles of Holly Springs. He was the son of Randolph WILLIAMS, who was born in North Carolina, and who died near Nashville, Tenn., where he had followed agricultural pursuits. He was a soldier in the War of 1812, and was in the battle of New Orleans. He was of Irish descent. The maternal grandfather of our subject, John McCORD, was a farmer by occupation, and died in Georgia. He was also a soldier in the War of 1812. He was a prominent man, and was probate judge of Butts County, Ga., for over twenty years.

Back to top

Page 738-39
Dr. P. W. WOOD, physician, surgeon, and minister, Fordyce, Ark. Among the citizens of Dallas, as well as surrounding counties, the name that heads this sketch is by no means an unfamiliar one, for it is borne by one who is actively and successfully occupied in the prosecution of his chosen profession, and who is actively and successfully occupied in the prosecution of his chosen profession, and whose career as a practitioner and thorough student of medicine has won for him on less a reputation than has his personal characteristics as a citizen and neighbor. Dr. WOOD was born in Pontotoc County, Miss., in 1840, and is the son of Solomon L. WOOD, a native, probably of Alabama. The father was married to Miss Lucinda WHITE (mother of subject), a native of Lawrence County, Tenn., and they afterward removed to Mississippi, where the mother died when our subject was but one day old. Mr. WOOD returned to Tennessee, and was married again, and he is now living in Fulton County, Ark., with his fourth wife. Dr. P. W. WOOD was left with E. B. SHANNON, and was reared by that gentleman, never seeing his father until eighteen years of age. He received his education in the country schools until seventeen years of age, and then spent ten months at Okolona Academy, preparatory to attending a higher school. At the breaking out of the war he joined the Okolona Rifles of the Eleventh Mississippi Infantry, operated in Virginia, and after the first Bull Run fight was discharged on account of ill health. He returned home, and soon after joined Company E, First Mississippi, as a private, but was soon promoted to adjutant. He was at Fort Donelson, made his escape and came home, where he was sick for some time. After recovering he joined the Forty-first Mississippi Infantry, and was with Gen. Bragg in Kentucky. He fought at Perryville, and just before the Murfreesboro fight the Fort Donelson refugees received orders to return to their original command. Dr. WOOD received his old position as adjutant, and was in the service at Port Hudson. He was also in the battles at Atlanta, Peachtree Creek, Franklin, Tenn., and surrendered with J. E. Johnston. After the war he taught school for about eleven years, and then began the practice of medicine, which he had studied before the war. Since then he has practiced his profession, and has made a success of the same. He was married in 1862, to Miss Lina D. SINGLETON, a native of Mississippi, and a daughter of Lemuel and Elsie SINGLETON, natives of South Carolina. Mr. and Mrs. SINGLETON were married in Alabama, and removed from there to Mississippi, where Mr. SINGLETON died, when his daughter Lina D., was an infant. Mrs. SINGLETON died in 1889. Both were members of the Baptist Church. To Dr. and Mrs. WOOD were born five living children. During the winter of 1878-79 the Doctor removed to Pike County, Ark., where he practice his profession until 1881, and then removed to near Chambersville, Calhoun County, Ark. Two years later he removed to his present farm of eighty acres, seven miles northwest of Fordyce, where he has a splendid practice. Politically he was reared a Whig, voted for Bell in 1860, and since the war has been a Democrat. He and wife have been members in good standing in the Primitive Baptist Church since 1865, and in 1868 he was licensed to preach. In 1870 he was ordained, and has preached more or less ever since, now having two regular charges.

Back to top

Page 739
Dr. Oliver O. WOZENCRAFT physician and surgeon, Pine Grove, Ark. There is no name better known among the medical profession in Dallas County than that of Dr. Oliver O. WOZENCRAFT. He owes his nativity to Clark County, Ga, in 1848, and is the son of William T. and a. G. (OLIVER) WOZENCRAFT, who were born in Clark County, Ga., in 1816 and South Carolina, in 1823, respectively. W. T. WOZENCRAFT was married in his native State, and there remained until 1852, when he came to Arkansas, residing the first year in Princeton. From there he moved to Holly Springs, where he resided ever since, with the exception of 1864 and 1865, when he was in Texas. He was county and probate judge of Clark County, Ga., for a number of years, and was captain of the militia at an early day, raising a company for the Mexican War, but did not enter the service. He was also captain of the Home Guards, in Arkansas, for some time during the Civil war; was surveyor of Dallas County, from about 1866 to 1876, and while in Texas, was assistant enrolling officer. He has been a member of the A. F. & A.M. for many years. Royal Arch and Council, having taken the thirty-first degree. Mr. and Mrs. WOZENCRAFT both followed the profession of school teaching, until 1857, since which time Mr. WOZENCRAFT has followed farming. His father, Thomas WOZENCRAFT, was a native of Wales, and when about thirty years of age came to the United States (about the first part of the present century), and made an expedition through Louisiana and Arkansas, and during the War of 1812, while on the way home, he was captured, within one days ride of his home, and brought back to England. He was married in Georgia, and in 1816 returned to his native land. He was absent from his family in the United States for seven years, and the father of our subject was seven years old before he saw his father. After his return to his family in America he spent the balance of his life engaged in farming in Georgia. He led an interesting and eventful life. The maternal grandfather, John OLIVER, was born in South Carolina and died in Georgia. He was a farmer and miller by occupation. Dr. Oliver O. WOZENCRAFT was the sixth of ten sons and five daughters, ten of whom are now living. He was educated at Stanleys High School, Camden, principally, after which he taught school a few years. He began the study of medicine with Drs. Thompson and Lee, at Princeton, and in 1872 and 1873 attended the University of Louisville, Ky. He then attended the Missouri Medical College at St. Louis, graduated from the same in 1876, and began practicing near where he was reared, his present neighborhood. In 1883 he removed to Texarkana, but one year later returned, and then spent the next year in Arkadelphia. Since then he has been where he first located, and has a good practice. He has a farm of 200 acres with many improvements, etc. He was married in 1877, to Miss I. B. HORTON, a native of Texas, born in 1856, and the daughter of W. S. and E. S. HORTON [see his sketch]. Five children were born to Dr. and Mrs. WOZENCRAFT, three sons and one daughter now living. Dr. WOZENCRAFT is a Democrat in politics, and Horace GREELEY was the first presidential nominee for whom he cast a vote. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity, now RUSSELL Lodge, formerly of Manchester No. 16, and he and wife are members of the Methodist Church.

Back to top