Goodspeed's Biography of James A. Shell, Grant Co, AR *********************************************************** Submitted by: Jackie Dill Date: 27 Jul 2003 Copyright. All rights reserved. http://www.usgwarchives.net/copyright.htm *********************************************************** James A. Shell, an extensive farmer and business factor of Madison Township, Grant County, Ark., was born in that neighborhood August 11,1853, the son of John and Margaret (Benson) Shell. He remained at home till twenty-six years of age, managing his father's farm as soon as competent, and upon leaving home took up his residence where he now lives. He owns 1,250 acres of as good land as can be found in Grant County, this vast accumulation being the result of hard work and able management. From 1882 to 1886 he served his township as notary public, has been school director for ten years, and since 1878 has acted as pension attorney, performing in addition to pension business, other Government affairs. He received a very liberal education in Grant County, and has taught school to some extent. June 15, 1879, Mr. Shell was married to Sarah L. Johnson, daughter of Daniel and Elizabeth Johnson, who was born in this county November 22,1861. By this marriage there were two children: John D., and Willie J. Mr. and Mrs. Shell are active members of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church, he being ruling elder. He votes the Democratic ticket, and is one of the county's most enterprising and respected citizens. All educational and religious matters pertaining to the elevation of the church and State receive the warmest support at the hands of Mr. Shell. In addition to the interests mentioned he is a real estate agent and general surveyor, and is also engaged in the timber business, having sold over 8,000 pipe staves. The rafting business also occupies his attention, he shipping cypress and other timber. He buys and sells for others as agent, and examines and locates lands.