HARDEMAN COUNTY TN - BIOGRAPHIES - 1887 Biographies of Hardeman Co. TN  M-Z

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J. A. Manson



Hon. J. A. Manson, a resident of Saulsbury, was born July 28, 1842, in McDonough,

Ga. His parents were Dr. F. E. and Mary B. (Bethune) Manson. The father was born

March 19, 1800, in Virginia, and immigrated to Georgia about in 1820, where he was

prominently connected with the political affairs of that day. He was a member of

the Legislature a number of terms, being a Representative at the time Georgia

seceded. His death occurred in 1874. The mother was born in Georgia, in 1810, and

departed this life in 1852. She was a sister to the distinguished Gen. James

Bethune of Pennsylvania. Our subject received an excellent education at Emory

College, Oxford, Ga., where he was at school when the war broke out. He entered

Company A, Cobbs, Ga., as private. In 1863 was promoted to rank of lieutenant;

November 29, 1863, he received a wound from the explosion of a hand grenade, at

Knoxville, and was disabled for about thirty days. April 6, 1865, he was captured,

and imprisoned at Johnson’s Island, where he was held about two months. After his

release he resumed his studies at college, graduating in 1867. He taught school at

Bolivar, La Grange and Saulsbury until 1880. In the meantime, 1873, he received the

degree of A.M. He was elected to represent Hardeman County in the State

Legislature, in 1876. He served with so much credit and distinction that he was

chosen each succeeding term until 1884. In 1885 he became speaker of the house.

July, of the same year, he was appointed deputy revenue collector, which position

he still holds. He is a strong Democrat, and very influential. He is intelligent,

enterprising and honorable. He has, by his own efforts, accumulated considerable

fine property and means. He is a sincere member of the Methodist Episcopal Church

South, and prominently connected with the Masonic order, K. of’ H., and K. & L. of

H. June 28, 1870, he married Miss Fannie E., daughter of W. W. Elliotte, Sr. To Mr.

and Mrs. Manson an interesting family, consisting of three boys and two girls, have

been born: Joseph A., Minnie J., Frank E., Mary J. and Grover Cleveland.









David W. McAnulty



David W. McAnulty, a prominent merchant of Hickory Valley, is native of Hardeman

County, born October 14, 1847, the elder of two children born to Joseph S. and

Margaret A. (Woods) McAnulty. The father is a native of North Carolina, born May

12, 1821, and came with his parents to Hardeman County in 1835, where they lived

the remainder of their lives. He is engaged in agricultural pursuits and has been

successful in securing this world’s goods. He is a Democrat and a member of the

Cumberland Presbyterian Church. The mother is a native of Hardeman County, born May

14, 1833, and is a worthy member of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. David W.,

by his own efforts, secured a good practical education, after which he was engaged

in the farming interests on his father’s farm. In 1865 he became a salesman in the

store of J. H. McClellan & Co., of La Grange, Tenn., where he remained one year,

and the year following was connected with the firm of Graves & Gaither in the same

capacity. December 10, 1867, Mr. McAnulty married Miss Martha R. Moorman, an

accomplished daughter of Rev. R. A. Moorman of Hardeman County. They are the

parents of eight children, six of whom are living. For about five years after his

marriage, Mr. McAnulty was engaged in farming, with fair results, but in 1873

established a store in La Grange in partnership with a brother-in-law, J. P.

Ferguson, which he continued one year. In 1874 they moved their stock of goods to

Hickory Valley, and since then Mr. McAnulty has been of the enterprising and

energetic business men of that place, now owning one-half interest in the store

which is valued at $10,000, besides 300 acres of land. He is a Democrat and

contributes liberally to the support of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church, of

which he and wife are members.









Joseph A. Mathews



Joseph A. Mathews, planter of Hardeman County, is a native of Abbeville County,

S.C., born January 15, 1830, the thirteenth of fourteen children born to Joseph C.

and Margaret (Brough) Mathews. The father, of Irish descent, was born in Abbeville

County, S.C., and his occupation was farming and tanning. He was a Democrat in

politics and an elder in the Presbyterian Church for many years. He died in his

native county in about 1854. The mother was also .a native of Abbeville County,

S.C., and a member of the Presbyterian Church, and her death occurred in 1860.

Joseph A. secured by his own efforts a practical education and for several years

followed the tanner’s trade in South Carolina, but in 1848 immigrated to Tennessee

and settled in Fayette County. He here followed the same business for four years

but in 1852 bought four horses and began teaming from West Tennessee and northern

Mississippi to Memphis. In the summer of 1860 he took a prospecting tour through

Arkansas, Texas and Louisiana, but did not buy and soon returned to Fayette County

and gave his attention to farming. In 1865 Mr. Mathews purchased the place where he

now lives in Hardeman County, where he moved the next year, and now owns 850 acres

of laud in this county. September 15, 1857, he married Miss Ellen Morrow, a lady of

highly respected family, born in Greenville County, S.C., June 22, 1822. She was a

member of the Presbyterian Church and died February 27, 1880, leaving two children:

William M., a young lawyer of much promise, and Jennie, a young lady of many

accomplishments. December 1, 1881, Mr. Mathews married Miss Fannie Campbell, a most

worthy lady, born in Mississippi, May 15, 1800. Mr. Mathews is a Democrat, and he

and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church South.









William A. May



William A. May, merchant and planter of Hardeman County, is a native of Fayette

County, born December 6, 1861, one of two children born to William A. and Mildred

(Davis) May. The parents were natives of Virginia and were married in New Castle,

Hardeman Co., Tenn., in about 1857. The father was born about 1815, was a Democrat,

a merchant and planter, and died in Fayette County, Tenn., in 1885. He was a

prominent member of the Missionary Baptist Church. The mother was born about 1840,

was a highly cultured lady, a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Her death

occurred in Fayette County, June 2,1877. The subject of this sketch received good

educational advantages, was educated at Culleoka, Tenn., and University of Alabama.

After completing his education he was engaged in farming interest for two years

with good success. In 1879, in partnership with W. T. Scott, he established a store

of general merchandise in Hickory Valley, and has since been an active and

successful business man. Mr. O. B. Polk has recently entered this firm. Mr. May

owns one-third interest in this house. He also owns 3,000 acres of land in Hardeman

and Fayette Counties. February 26, 1884, he married Miss Annie Morgan, an

accomplished lady, a native of Memphis, Tenn. They have a child, William A., born

January 15, 1885. Mr. May is a Democrat in politics, and he and his wife are

members of the Presbyterian Church.









John E. McCaskill



John E. McCaskill, farmer is a native of Hardeman County, born October 24, 1837,

the third of five children born to Taylor and Nancy McCaskill. The parents were

natives of North Carolina, where they married in about the year 1832 and in 1835

they immigrated to Tennessee and settled in Hardeman County, where they spent the

rest of their days. The father was of Scotch descent, born in 1809, was a farmer, a

Democrat in politics, and a worthy member of the Missionary Baptist Church. His

death occurred in Hardeman County, August 10, 1841.. The mother was of English

origin, born February 16, 1812. She was a member of the Cumberland Presbyterian

Church and died at Hardeman County, April 9, 1883. John E. received a good

practical education and began early in life as a farmer, and except the time spent

in the Confederate Army has always made Hardeman County his home. In the spring of

1861 he enlisted in Company B, Fourth Tennessee Infantry, and was received into

Cheatham’s division, and participated in the battles of Perryville, Murfreesboro,

Chickamauga, etc. He was wounded at Jonesboro, Ga., in August, 1864, and was

compelled to return home, when he again resumed farming. In 1865 he purchased half

of the farm where he now lives from his brother, and now owns 240 acres of good

land in his county. May 1, 1866, Mr. McCaskill married Miss. Cynthia Sutton, a

native of Hardeman County, born November 25, 1849. Unto this union have been born

ten children — seven sons and three daughters — one son deceased. Mr. McCaskill is

a Democrat, and he and wife are strict members of the Cumberland Presbyterian

Church.









Thomas E. Mercer



Thomas E. Mercer, an enterprising merchant of Toone and member of the firm of

Mercer & McGlathery, is a native of Madison County, Tenn., born February 5, 1844,

the fourth of eight children, four now living, born to Thomas B. and Catharine

(Crisum) Mercer. The parents were married in Madison County about the year 1830 and

in 1843 came to Hardeman County, where they have since lived. The father was born

in Currituck County, N.C., in December, 1816, is a farmer, a Democrat, and a member

of the Missionary Baptist Church. The mother is a member of the same church, born

in Middle Tennessee in 1818. Our subject’s education at seventeen was interrupted

by the breaking out of the war, when he enlisted in Company B, Thirty-third

Tennessee Regiment Infantry; was received in Cheatham’s division and participated

in the battles of Shiloh, Perryville, Ky., Murfreesboro and of Chickamauga. At the

latter place he received a severe wound which caused him much suffering. After a

partial recovery he returned to the service but was officially placed on the

retired list at Greensboro, Ga., in July, 1864. Mr. Mercer then returned to

Tennessee and re-entered school, and after completing his education he was engaged

as clerk in different mercantile houses for five years. In 1869 he formed a

partnership with a brother, W. A. Mercer, and James Little and opened a grocery

store in Toone which he continued with some changes in the firm for seven years. In

1876 he and brother opened a store of general merchandise, but in 1883 the brother

sold his interest to F. M. McGlathery, now one of the firm. Mr. Mercer also owns

300 acres of land in Fayette, Madison and Hardeman Counties. September 6, 1870, he

married Miss Lizzie Cartwright, a lady of Fayette County, born in 1843, and to them

have been born eight children, six now living. Mr. Mercer is a Democrat and a

member of the Missionary Baptist Church. Mrs. Mercer is a member of the Methodist

Episcopal Church.









Frank M. McGlathery



Frank M. McC-lathery, of the firm of Mercer & McGlathery of Toone, is a native of

Alcorn County, Miss., born June13, 1847, a son of Samuel E. and Nancy S. (Surratt)

McGlathery. The parents were married in northern Alabama in 1839, and moved the

same year to what is now Alcorn County, Miss., where they have since lived. The

father is of Scotch descent, a native of Lincoln County, Tenn., born February 10,

1818. He was engaged in farming until the year 1880 when for four years he sold

goods in Corinth, Miss., but since then has lived a retired life. He is a Democrat

and a prominent member of the Methodist Episcopal Church South. The mother was born

in Alabama June 10, 1821, and is of French ancestry. She is a member of the same

church as her husband. Frank M. enjoyed fine educational advantages, receiving a

good academical education, after which he clerked in his uncle’s store at

Boonsville, Miss., one year. In 1869 he entered the firm of .A. J. Borroum & Co.,

druggists at Corinth, Miss. In 1870 he secured a position as assistant depot agent

at Bolivar, Tenn., and at once began the study of telegraphy and soon became an

expert in that branch of railroad work. November, 1872, Mr. McGlathery was

appointed operator and agent at Voiden, Miss., and in May, 1873, was transferred to

Toone, Tenn., where he was connected with the railroad business for eleven years.

He then resigned and has since given his attention exclusively to mercantile

interests, and now owns one half interest in a stock of goods valued at $15,000 or

$20,000. May 1, 1872, Mr. McGlathery married Miss Mattie E. Mercer, who was born

May 14, 1850. Mr. and Mrs. McGlathery are the parents of six children — three sons

and three daughters — two sons deceased. Mr. McGlathery is a Democrat and he and

wife are influential members of the Methodist Episcopal Church South.









J. R. Miller



J. R. Miller, a prosperous farmer and well known resident of the Fourth District,

was born July 28, 1853, in the house where he now resides. His parents were John

and Mary E. (Bradford) Miller. The father was born in Haywood County, in 1827, the

mother in same county, in 1831. They were wedded in 1847, and soon afterward moved

to Hardeman County. They had four sons and four daughters, five of whom are living.

Both parents were consistent members of the Methodist Church. The father was a

stanch Democrat. His chief occupation was farming, which he carried on to a great

extent. For twelve years he was interested in merchandising. In all financial

matters he was one of the most successful and shrewd men in the county. He was

prosperous in all his undertakings. He met a sad and distressing death in 1879;

while coming out of a house in Centreville he was shot and instantly killed by an

unknown party. The cause of the deed remains enshrouded in mystery. The mother died

in 1886. Our subject, owing to delicate health, received but a meager education.

When quite a young man he began his career as an independent farmer. In 1877 he

married Miss Rebecca Franklin, who was born August 3, 1856, in Hardeman County. She

is a sincere member of the Methodist Church, and the mother of two children: Robert

P. and John F. Mr. Miller is a conservative in politics, but takes no active part

and seldom votes. For three years he has been constable, but does not aspire to

offices of public trust. He has always been an enterprising and fortunate

agriculturist, owning over 500 acres of land in the best portion of the county. He

is deeply interested in the raising of fast, blooded horses. He has Clipper, Tom,

Hal, and Highland breeds.









Martin Moore



Martin Moore, a prominent farmer of the Fourth District, was born April 11, 1819,

in Pitt County, N.C., in which State his parents were born, raised and married. His

father, William Moore, while a resident of his native State, was a magistrate for a

number of years, and a constable until he was forced to sell the household goods of

a family. He was of so kind and sympathetic a disposition, that he resigned rather

than perform such duties. He married Miss Frances Forrest, of English origin, by

whom he had five sons and three daughters. In 1835 he moved his family to

Tennessee, locating in the western district, Haywood County. He was a prosperous

farmer and Jeffersonian Democrat. His death occurred in 1836, and his wife’s in

1873. Both were Christian people, true and honorable, but never united with any

church. The grandfather Forrest was a faithful soldier of the Revolutionary war.

Our subject was raised on a farm; his educational advantages were inferior, but by

his own efforts and application he has acquired an extensive amount of practical

information. At the age of fourteen he began life for himself. After working as a

laborer for ten years, he engaged in agriculture on his own responsibility. By hard

work, economy and good management he has prospered to such an extent that he now

owns 1,700 acres of land. He belongs to no church, but is liberal to all

denominations, charitable institutions, and all who are in distress. For forty-

three years he has made his home in Hardeman County, where he is well known as a

worthy, honest man. He is a stanch Democrat. In 1841 he married Miss Martha E.

Sammons, who was born January 20, 1822. Their union resulted in the birth of twelve

children, five of whom live. The oldest son, Gee. W.. was wounded at Perryville,

Ky., from the effects of which he died in prison. Benjamin F. was a professor in

the Medical College, at Little Rock, Ark. Mrs. Moore was an earnest member of the

Primitive Baptist Church. Her death occurred in 1864. In 1868 Mr. Moore wedded Mrs.

Elizabeth E. Brogden. by whom he had one son, deceased. Mrs. Moore is a Cumberland

Presbyterian.







James A. Moore



James A. Moore, Esq., one of the leading farmers of the Fourth District, was born

August 8, 1837, in Hardeman County. His parents were William A. and Mary A.

(Coates) Moore, both born in Halifax County, Va., the former in 1808 and the latter

in 1810. They were married in their native State, residing there until 1836, when

they moved to Hardeman County. To their union four sons and four daughters were

born, only one surviving. Mr. Moore was an old school Whig, and after the war a

Democrat. He never aspired to office of public trust, but preferred the quiet life

of a farmer, in which occupation he was prosperous, In 1884 he died, a consistent

member of the Missionary Baptist Church, to which his wife also belongs. Mrs. Moore

makes her home with her only child, our subject. The grandfather Moore was a major

in the war of 1812. J. A. Moore, Esq., was raised on a farm, and educated in the

common schools. In 1861 he volunteered in Company E, Seventh Tennessee Cavalry.

After a year’s service, and while home on a furlough, he was elected first

lieutenant of Company F, Fourteenth Tennessee Cavalry, Confederate Army, holding

that rank until the close of the war. During his active and gallant service, he was

neither wounded nor taken prisoner. After the restoration of peace he returned to

the farm. In 1865 he married Miss Margaret A. Mitchell, who was born January 17,

1843. Their marriage resulted in the birth of seven children — two sons and five

daughters. Squire Moore and his estimable wife are active and respected members of

the Missionary Baptist Church. Squire Moore is a stanch Democrat. In 1882 he was

elected magistrate, which office he still fills. As an agriculturist he has been

very successful. He owns about 580 acres of good land. He is well known throughout

the entire county, and universally esteemed.









R. A. Moorman



Rev. R. A. Moorman, M. D., a well known retired physician and a popular preacher in

the Cumberland Presbyterian Church of Hardeman County, is a native of Campbell

County, Va., born April 8, 1808, son of M. C. and Easter (Alexander) Moorman, both

natives of Campbell County, Va. They were married in that county, and afterward

immigrated to Alabama, where they spent the remainder of their lives. R. A. is the

third of six children born to this union, and the only one now living. He received

an academical education in his native State, and at the age of nineteen came to

Hardeman County, Tenn. In 1831 he entered the medical school at Lexington, Ky.,

where he received his diploma, and after his graduation he returned to this county,

and commenced the practice of his profession, where he was a physician of fine

reputation until the beginning of the war. In 1836 Dr. Moorman obtained license to

preach in the Cumberland Presbyterian Church, and for fifty years has been a

faithful minister in this church. While he has been a physician and minister he has

also been engaged in farming, and now owns 640 acres of good land in this county.

Rev. Moorman has been twice married; for his first wife he married Miss Martha A.

Morgan, May 21, 1838, and to this happy union were born eight children — four sons

and four daughters. This excellent woman was born in Hardeman County in about 1821,

and died March 24, 1857. October 24, 1858, he married Mrs. N. T. (Young) Watson,

who was a native of Madison County, and ‘died January 16, 1884. One daughter was

born to this union. Both wives were members of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church.









John T. Morrow



John T. Morrow was born in Greenville County, S.C., October 4, 1829, the youngest

of fourteen children born to Col. William and Jane (Reid) Morrow, both natives of

South Carolina. The parents were married in South Carolina about 1812, and in 1834

they came to Tennessee, and settled in Fayette County, where they spent the

remainder of their days. The father was of Irish descent, born in 1778, was a

farmer, and a member of the Presbyterian Church. He was colonel of the State

militia, and a soldier of the war of 1812, and died in Fayette County in 1864. The

mother was of Scotch ancestry, born in 1787, a member of the Presbyterian Church,

and died in Fayette County in 1873. John T. attended the country schools of Fayette

County, and afterward turned his attention to farming, and after forty years spent

successfully in Fayette County, he came to Hardeman County and purchased the farm

where he now lives. He was a heavy loser by the war, but has regained much of his

loss, and now owns 1,150 acres of land. September 14, 1854, Mr. Morrow married Miss

Margaret F. Marsh, a daughter of Daniel H. and Mary Marsh, born in Chatham County,

N.C., September 20, 1835. Her parents made a settlement in Hardeman County at an

early day. Mr. and Mrs. Morrow are the parents of nine children — four sons and

five daughters — three now living, two sons and one daughter. Mr. Morrow is a

Democrat, and he and wife and daughter are members of the Presbyterian Church.









Bartley H. Moss



Bartley H. Moss, a prominent citizen and well-to-do farmer, of Hardeman County, is

a native of McMinn County, East Tenn., born September 15, 1836, the sixth of nine

children born to Eli and Dicy (Brock) Moss. The parents were natives of South

Carolina, and were married in that State. Early in life they immigrated to

Tennessee, and settled in McMinn County, where they spent the remainder of their

days. The father spent his life in agricultural pursuits, at which he was fairly

successful. He was a Democrat in politics and a man who had many warm friends who

honored him for his integrity and appreciated him for his kindness of heart.

Bartley H. secured a good academical education and having selected farming for an

occupation, at an early age began tilling the soil. He lived in McMinn County until

the year 1873, when he came to Hardeman County and settled eleven miles southwest

of Bolivar where he now lives. He began life rather poor, but by industry, economy

and close application to business has secured a competency, now owning 220 acres of

land well cultivated. About thirty years ago Mr. Moss was united in marriage to

Miss Eliza Martin, who was born in McMinn County about 1836. They are the parents

of nine children — four sons and five daughters — all living. Mr. Moss in his

political views is rather inclined to the Republican party. Though not a member of

any church he is a firm believer in the Christian religion and is an honored and

respected citizen of his community.









P. H. McKinnie



P. H. McKinnie, M.D., is one of the prominent physicians of Hickory Valley, a

native of the same county where he resides, born February 3, 1844, a son of Rev.

Arthur and H. D. (Lee) McKinnie, who were natives of North Carolina. The father is

a native of Wayne County, born in 1811; was a local preacher in the Methodist

Episcopal Church and rendered that church much valuable service. He was also a

farmer, at which he was very successful. His death occurred in Hardeman County. The

mother was born in Rockingham County in 1810 and died in Hickory Valley in 1886.

They were married in Hardeman County. P. H. McKinnie is the youngest of seven

children born to his parents and received a good collegiate education. In the fall

of 1862 he entered the Confederate States Army and enlisted as a private of

volunteers in Company E, Seventh Tennessee Regular Cavalry, and was received in

Gen. Forrest’s command under Brig.-Gen. James R. Chalmers. He participated in the

battles of Hernando, Miss., Moscow, Tenn., Harrisburg, Miss., Union City, Tenn.,

Nashville and Franklin; returned home in 1865 and took the oath of allegiance at La

Grange, and soon after entered the school at New Castle where he attended one year

and then entered the college at Georgetown, Ky., and having chosen the medical

profession went in the fall of 1873 to the medical college at Louisville, Ky.,

where he duly received his diploma in 1880. He then returned to Hardeman County,

and located in Hickory Valley, where he soon built up a large practice and has

since been a popular and successful physician. February 29, 1876, he married Miss

Susan M. Scott, born February 27, 1861, in Hardeman County, and to them has been

born the following family: Claude S., born October 24, 1877; Arthur S., born April

28, 1882, and William H., born April 13, 1884. Dr. McKinnie is a Democrat in

politics and a consistent member of the Missionary Baptist Church. Mrs. McKinnie is

a member of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church.









Edward A. Mullen



Edward A. Mullen, planter, of Hardeman County, was born in York County, S.C.,

February 1, 1827, the oldest of a family of eleven children born to Alexander and

Jane (West) Mullen. The father was born in Ireland about 1786, and came to America

when twelve years of age. He was a farmer all his life. The mother was of English-

Irish descent, born in South Carolina about 1793, and died January, 1877. They were

married in South Carolina, and in 1829 immigrated to Tennessee, and after two years

they settled in Madison County, where the father died March 13, 1853. Edward A.

came to Tennessee when an infant and has spent his entire life in farming in

Madison and Hardeman Counties. In 1851 he settled where he now lives, which is one

of the best portions of Hardeman County, and owns 1,000 acres of land in this and

Madison County. December 13, 1849, Mr. Mullen married Miss Eliza Summers, a native

of Madison County, born July 31, 1827. She was a member of the Missionary Baptist

Church and died April 11, 1879. May 15, 1881, he married Miss Adaline Westbrook,

who is a member of the Missionary Baptist Church. In 1862 Mr. Mullen entered the

Confederate Army, was received under Forrest’s command and served under him until

the fall of 1864, when he returned home on account of ill health. He is a Democrat

and a believer in the Christian religion.









Rufus P. Neely



Gen. Rufus P. Neely, an early settler of Hardeman County, is the son of Charles and

Lousa (Polk) Neely. The father was born in Virginia in 1787, and when young moved

with his parents to Middle Tennessee. The mother was born in North Carolina in

1787, and was the daughter of Col. Ezekial Polk, of Colonial distinction, and the

originator of the Polk families in Tennessee. They were among the early settlers of

Maury County. The parents of our subject reared a family of four children, all of

whom are living. At the breaking out of the war of 1812 Charles Neely, as captain,

led a company under Jackson, and while on this campaign he saw a beautiful scope of

country near Tuscumbia, Ala., where he moved after the war. He followed farming for

a livelihood. In 1820 he passed away while yet in the prime of life. His young

widow returned to Maury County, Tenn., and in 1822 came to Hardeman County before

Bolivar was started, and when not more than half a dozen families lived in the

county. Here she married Dr. C. C. Collier, by whom she had three children, all of

whom are deceased. She died in 1869. Our subject was born November 26, 1808, in

Maury County, near Spring Hill, and inherited Irish blood from both father and

mother. He secured a good academic education, and in 1821 came to Hardeman County

on a pony loaded with bacon, in company with Ezekial Polk, before mentioned. Mr.

Polk had purchased extensive tracts of land and came to locate them. In 1829 our

subject married Elizabeth Lee, and the result of this union was ten children, five

of whom are living — one son, a physician at Bolivar, and four daughters. Mr. Neely

is a Democrat in politics, and has held the offices of register, county court

clerk, and has served in every clerkship in the county. In the Legislature of 1839-

40 he represented Henderson County. In the days of militia the General held the

position of brigadier-general, and when the trouble arose between Texas and Mexico

he offered the services of his command, but his forces were authoritatively

disbanded, inasmuch as it was contrary to the law of nations for the Government to

allow her troops to participate. In 1839 the General led a company to assist in

removing the Indians to their territory. He offered the services of his command in

the Seminole war and also in the war with Mexico, but there being a surplus of

troops his were left out by lot. In 1861 he enlisted as captain of Company B,

Fourth Tennessee Infantry (Confederate Army), and in May of the same year was

promoted to colonel of his regiment. During his service he was three times

imprisoned, twice at Alton, Ill., and once at Camp Chase, Ohio. For many years he

has been intimately connected with the railroad interests of the South. He it was

who built the Mississippi Central, of which he was president for several years and

receiver by appointment of Gov. Porter; he was president of the Memphis & Knoxville

Road, and is now one of the board of directors of the Mississippi & Tennessee Road.

For sixty years he has been a resident of Hardeman County, and is one of its most

highly respected citizens.









James J. Neely



Dr. James J. Neely, Jr., a prominent physician of Bolivar and a son of Gen. R. P.

and Elizabeth (Lee) Neely, was born September 12, 1848, in Hardeman County. He was

reared on a farm and received his early education at Bolivar, but subsequently

attended the University of Mississippi, finishing the sophomore year. In 1863 he

enlisted in Company E, Seventh Tennessee Cavalry (Confederate Army), and during

eighteen months of service never received a wound nor was he taken prisoner. In

1868 he began the study of medicine under Drs. Moore and Tate, of Bolivar, and

entered Bellevue Hospital Medical College, graduating from that institution in

1872. He then located in Bolivar, and has enjoyed a good practice. In 1876 he

married Julia A., daughter of Judge Thomas Smith of Memphis. To this union were

born three children: Rufus P., Jr., Thomas S. and Francis F. Mrs. Neely is a member

of the Episcopal Church. Mr. Neely is a stanch Democrat in politics, and has had

the honor of holding the position of health officer of the county and local surgeon

of the Illinois Central Railroad. For fourteen years he has been practicing his

profession in Bolivar and has met with good and well deserved success, as his many

patients now living can testify.









Thomas M. Newsom



Thomas M. Newsom, circuit court clerk of Hardeman County, was the sixth of a family

of eleven children born to Michael J. and Mary C. (Cosbey) Newsom. The father was a

Virginian. He moved to Middle Tennessee when quite a young man. There he was

married. During his residence in that section of the State he assisted in the

laying of the corner-stone of the State Capitol. About 1850 he settled in Hardeman

County, where the remainder of his life was spent. He was a prosperous

agriculturist, owning some 700 acres of valuable land. For six years he was

magistrate and served eight years as constable. He was a stanch Democrat. He died

in 1871, a consistent member of the Methodist Church, to which his wife also

belongs. Mrs. Newsom is still living on the homestead. She is about sixty-three

years of age, a true Christian woman, beloved by all who know her. Of her family of

children ten are living. Our subject, Thomas M., was born in Hardeman County, March

17, 1858. He was raised on a farm. In his early years his educational advantages

were very meager, but later he received the benefits of a much better class of

schools. At the age of eighteen he began teaching-school, which he continued for

about eight years, meeting with considerable success, and giving entire

satisfaction to his patrons. In 1886 he was called to the important and honored

position which he now holds. Thus far he has proved to be a most efficient officer,

and his friends have no doubts concerning his future discharge of duties. He is an

ardent Democrat, a genial, intellectual gentleman, well known and highly respected.









John S. Norment



John S. Norment, one of the oldest and best known residents of Hardeman County, was

born in the county January 31, 1828. His parents were Nathaniel E. and Sarah

(Menifee) Norment. The father was a Virginian of English descent; the mother was of

English-Dutch extraction, born in Knox County, Tenn. When quite young they moved to

Alabama, where they were married and lived until 1826, when they came to Tennessee,

settling near Whiteville, Hardeman County. To their union seven children were born,

two of whom are living. Both parents were Methodists, but late in life Mrs. Norment

united with the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. Her death occurred in 1881.

Previous to Mr. Norment’s marriage with Miss Menifee, he had been twice married. By

his first wife he had two children, and by the second wife four children. He was

one of the most prosperous farmers of the section in which he lived, and built the

first and only cotton factory in the county. He departed this life in 1839. The

subject of this sketch was raised on a farm, receiving such education as the common

schools of that day afforded. At the age of nineteen he engaged in agricultural

pursuits, to which he has given his attention since that time. For a short time

previous to the war he was interested in merchandising. He is a consistent member

of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church, a liberal contributor to all charitable,

religious or worthy enterprises. He was an old time Whig, and is now a stanch

Democrat. Few men in the county are older or more respected residents than he. In

1847 Mr. Norment married Miss Nancy Burford, born March 10, 1829. To them six sons

and five daughters were born. Mrs. Norment died in 1874, a sincere Christian, an

estimable woman and devout member of the Methodist Church. Her parents were Dr.

Jonathan and Nancy (Chaflin) Burford. The father was a native of North Carolina.

Early in life he moved to Alabama, where he was at one time clerk of the court. In

1828, after his marriage, he came to Hardeman County, where he was a successful

practicing physician until failing health caused him to retire from active life. He

was an old school Whig. His death occurred in 1849. Mrs. Burford was a Virginian,

the mother of ten children, of whom only two are living. She died in 1838. Both

were members of the Methodist Church.









William M. Norment



Rev. William M. Norment, one of the leading and best known ministers in the

Cumberland Presbyterian Church, was born September 21, 1829, near where Whiteville

now stands. His parents were Nathaniel E. and Sarah (Menifee) Norment. The subject

of this sketch was raised in the country, receiving a liberal education in the best

schools in the community. When sixteen years of age he took a year’s work at the

Cumberland University. At the early age of nineteen he married Miss Martha B.

Miller, born November 6, 1831, in Virginia, and brought her to Hardeman County when

a mere child. This union resulted in the birth of twelve children, of whom two sons

and five daughters are living. The mother and family are all members of the same

denomination of which he is a clergyman. After marriage Mr. Norment settled on a

farm. He had devoted considerable time to theological study and in 1852 entered the

ministry, being ordained two years later, in which noble work he has since been

engaged for the past thirty-four years with most favorable and satisfactory

results, laboring zealously from a sense of duty, always putting aside pecuniary

considerations. In connection with his ministerial duties he was interested, for

several years previous to the war and immediately afterward, in mercantile business

in Whiteville. He has also run a saw-mill for a number of years. He is still

engaged to some extent in farming. He owns about 250 acres of valuable land.









Jesse Norment



Hon. Jesse Norment, attorney at law and proprietor of the Bolivar Bulletin, was

born Aug. 20, 1849, in Hardeman Co. where he has been raised and received his

education in the common schools. He is a son of John S. and Nancy S. (Burford)

Norment, also natives of the same county. The mother was born March 10, 1829, and

departed this life in 1874, an exemplary Christian, an affectionate wife and

mother. The father was born January 31, 1828. He is one of the prosperous

agriculturists and most worthy residents of the county. The grandparents on both

sides were among the earliest and most respected settlers of Hardeman County. The

subject of this sketch entered the Lebanon law school in 1869 and was admitted to

the bar one year later, since which time he has been having an extensive and

lucrative law practice in his native county. He is a strong and influential

Democrat and for several years has led a public life. He first served as mayor of

Bolivar, discharging the duties of his office in a highly commendable manner. In

1882-84 he represented Hardeman and McNairy Counties in the State Senate, and in

1886 had the honor of being re-elected, which was a practical demonstration of the

regard in which he is held by the people. He is an able lawyer, an efficient public

servant and a courteous, popular man. In 1873 he married Miss Sallie Black, who was

born January 21, 1855, in Bolivar, Tenn. Their union has been blessed with four

interesting children: Hamilton, Nancy E., Jesse B. and Maggie. Mr. and Mrs. Norment

are members of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church.









William Nuckolls



William Nuckolls, an old and highly esteemed resident of Hardeman County, was born

August 15, 1804, in Robertson County, Tenn. His parents were Richard and Temperance

(Walton) Nuckolls; both were natives of Virginia and came to Middle Tennessee about

1798. They had a family of five sons and two daughters, our subject being the

youngest and only surviving one. He received a very limited education. In 1824 he

located in Hardeman County where he has since resided. In 1852 he wedded Zarilda

Cotton, who was born in 1818. To them were born six children, of whom two sons and

two daughters are living. Mr. Nuckolls was for a short time magistrate, having

received his appointment from Brownlow. He has been a Democrat nearly all his life

and during the war was a strong Union man. His chief occupation has been the saw-

mill business in which he has amassed quite a snug fortune. He is also interested

in farming. He began life without capital but by industry and attention to his

affairs is now the possessor of about 2,600 acres of fine land. He has lived in

Hardeman County many years and is universally regarded as an able, substantial and

worthy citizen. Neither Mr. nor Mrs. Nuckolls have ever united with any

denomination.









John W. Nuckolls



John W. Nuckolls, M.D., a well known physician and extensive planter, a resident of

Toone, Hardeman Co., Tenn., is a native of the county where he resides, born

December 7, 1840, the fourth of nine children, eight now living, born to Starling

and Narcissa (Whitaker) Nuckolls. The father was of Welsh descent, born in Virginia

in 1784, but when a child came to Tennessee and settled in Robertson County. He was

engaged in farming and the milling business and was a prominent man of his day. He

died in 1860. It is thought the mother was a native of Lincoln County, Tenn. She

was much younger than her husband and died in Hardeman County in 1876. John W. in

the fall of 1861 entered the Confederate States Army and joined what was known as

Capt. J. J. Neely’s company of cavalry and was received in Forrest’s command. He

served two years under him but was captured in December, 1863, and was held as a

prisoner of war several weeks in Bolivar, but was finally released upon taking the

oath of allegiance. December 5, 1867, he married Miss Fannie R. Anderson, daughter

of Edward Anderson, of Hardeman County. She was born in 1845, and they are the

parents of eight children, six now living. Immediately after his marriage he began

the study of medicine, and in 1870-71 attended the Medical College of Nashville,

after which he returned home and began practicing in connection with Dr. J. R.

Anderson establishing a drug store at the same time. Dr. Nuckolls dissolved

partnership with Dr. Anderson after two years’ connection. He now owns a fine

residence in Toone valued at $5,000, besides 4,000 acres of land in Hardeman and

Madison Counties. Dr. Nuckolls is a Democrat in politics and his religious views

are in sympathy with the Missionary Baptist Church.









Noah C. Nuckolls



Noah C. Nuckolls, one of the leading livery men of Bolivar, is a son of William and

Zarilda (Cotton) Nuckolls, and was born September 8, 1855, in Hardeman County. He

was reared on a farm and had good educational advantages. After reaching manhood he

spent some time in Texas, Middle Tennessee and Arkansas. He then returned to

Hardeman County and farmed till 1885, when he moved to Bolivar and opened a livery

stable, which he is now operating with evident success. Though in business only a

short time Mr. Nuckolls has succeeded in gaining his share of the patronage of the

county. Mr. Nuckolls’ fine rigs for the accommodation of the public are to be had

at the very lowest prices. Those having had any business transactions with him have

found him pleasant and prompt in all his dealings.









T. A. Parran



T. A. Parran, farmer of Hardeman County, was born June 18, 1829, in Memphis and

received a rather limited education. On reaching manhood he began his career as a

farmer, which he has continued up to the present. In 1848 he married Maria Wood, a

native of Hardeman County, born in August, 1830, and to them were born three

children: David, Anna and Thomas C. Both he and wife and all the children are

members of the Presbyterian Church. In politics Mr. Parran has always been a

Democrat. He is not one who aspires to places of public trust. but performs the

duties of a public-spirited citizen. He holds the position of alderman of the town

of Bolivar. In 1875 he came to this town and has been engaged to some extent in

selling machinery in partnership with his son David. His chief occupation is

superintending his plantation, which consists of 1,200 acres. He has made this

county his home the principal part of his life, and is considered an excellent

citizen. His parents, Thomas O. and Anna (Carr) Parran, were natives of Calvert

County, Md., and Albemarle County, Va., respectively. They were married in Memphis

and to this union was born one child, a son. By occupation the father was a

journalist, having established one of the first newspapers of Memphis. He died

while in the prime of life, and his widow soon followed him.









James M. Pettigrew



James M. Pettigrew, a prominent farmer of Hardeman County, was born in Haywood

County, Tenn., October 24, 1843, a son of Samuel E. and Nancy (Nicholson)

Pettigrew. The father was born in Virginia, and the mother in North Carolina, but

were brought to this county when very young, and here they married. To them a

family of eleven children were born of whom one son, and one daughter are living.

The father when only a boy served under Jackson, at New Orleans. He was a stanch

Democrat. Although not a church member he was an honest and esteemed man. By trade

he was a carpenter and assisted in building the first houses in. Bolivar. After

living in this county many years, they moved to Haywood County, where the mother

died in 1859. During the war the father went to Arkansas where he died. The subject

of this sketch was raised on a farm, receiving a good common-school education. He

began life for himself at the age of seventeen. Some time afterward he engaged in

the grocery business. In 1870 he married Mrs. L. L. Miller, nee Doyle, who was born

May 19, 1841. By her first marriage she had two children, of whom Mary is living.

To Mr. and Mrs. Pettigrew seven children were born, five of whom are living: Carrie

B., James C., Joseph V., Edna L. and Nannie P. Soon after marriage Mr. Pettigrew

moved to Humboldt, Tenn., engaging in the cultivation of fruits. In 1S79 they

returned to Hardeman County, settling at Centerville, where they have a fine farm,

consisting of about 665 acres. He is an industrious, prosperous and most worthy

citizen. He and his estimable wife are members of the Missionary Baptist Church.









W. A. Pledge



W. A. Pledge, a resident and undertaker of Grand Junction, was born December 1,

1823, in Virginia, and immigrated to Tennessee in 1849, locating in the immediate

vicinity of his present residence, where he has since lived. His parents were

Archie and Mary E. (Garthright) Pledge, both natives of Virginia. The father was

born January 1, 1782, and came to Hardeman County in 1850, where he died June,

1858. The mother was born in 1791, and departed this life in 1861. They were

respected, good people. The subject of this sketch on his arrival to this place

entered upon his present occupation, in connection with various branches of

mechanical trade. November 1, 1849, he married Elvia W. Yancy, a native of North

Carolina, whose parents came to Tennessee about 1837. This marriage resulted in the

birth of Olivia, wife of E. L. Estep, present proprietor of the Stonewall Hotel;

Joel A., whose death occurred in 1862; and William W., died in 1878. Mr. Pledge

entered the Confederate service in 1862, in Company G, Thirteenth Tennessee

Infantry. July 22, 1864, at Atlanta, Ga., he was shot in the right shoulder, which

disabled him for further service, but his feelings were so strong, that he did not

return home until the surrender. He is a stanch Democrat, and has been an active,

consistent member of the Missionary Baptist Church since 1842. He is in good

standing with the Masonic order and K. of H. He is one of the most substantial and

worthy citizens in the entire community.









Oscar B. Polk



Oscar B. Polk, an extensive planter of Hardeman County, is a native of the county

where he resides, born March 1, 1849. He came of the old Polk family of State and

national fame, and was a near relative of James K. Polk. For sketch of parents see

biography of Thomas Polk. Oscar B. received good educational advantages in youth

afterward attending the St. Louis University and the Oxford College of Mississippi.

After completing his education he engaged in agricultural pursuits on his father’s

farm until 1871 when his father died. He then took charge of the farm which was a

large cotton plantation and fine success attended his efforts. November 25, 1879,

Mr. Polk was united in marriage to Mrs. Ada C. Lowe, whose maiden name was Boyle,

an accomplished lady, a native of Hardeman County, born in 1852. Mr. and Mrs. Polk

are parents of two children: Oscar B. and Ada C. Mr. Polk has been an active

business man all his life and is perhaps the most extensive planter in the county.

He also owns a third interest in the firm of Polk, May & Scott at Hickory Valley,

and owns over 5,000 acres of land in Tennessee, Arkansas and Texas. He is not a

member of any church but a believer in the Bible and a man of good moral character.

Mrs. Polk is a member of the Roman Catholic Church.







Thomas Polk



Thomas Polk, a well known merchant of New Castle, Hardeman Co., Tenn., is a native

of the county where he resides, born November 27, 1852, a son of J. J. and T. J.

(Bowels) Polk. The father was a native of North Carolina, born in 1808 and died in

Hardeman County, September, 1871. The mother was born in Virginia, in 1816, and

died in Hardeman County in 1879. In early life the father immigrated to Tennessee

and settled in Hardeman County, where he spent the remainder of his life as a

farmer, and was one of the most extensive planters in the county. He was a Democrat

in politics, and he and wife were devout members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

Our subject came of one of the most eminent families that has ever made a home in

Tennessee, J. K. Polk, the President, being one of its illustrious members, Thomas

secured a good education in his youth, and after farming until 1872 he then

established a store in New Castle, and since then has been an active merchant and

has secured a fair competency. He now owns a stock of goods valued at $10,000, and

owns 800 acres of good land in the county. July 15, 1874, Mr. Polk married Miss

Willie Roders, a highly cultured lady, a native of Louisiana, born March 1, 1855.

To this union have been born four children: John J., born April 28, 1875; Florence

E., born May 17, 1877; Sarah T., born August 20, 1879, and Lola M., born November

27, 1881. Mr. Polk is a Democrat and he and wife are influential members of the

Methodist Episcopal Church South.









Thomas E. Prewitt



Dr. Thomas E. Prewitt, a leading and skillful physician and surgeon of Grand

Junction, was born July 31, 1838, in South Carolina, of which State his parents

were also natives. His father, James Prewitt, was born November, 1797, and moved to

Hardeman County in 1845, and there died in 1875. His wife was Elizabeth Hill, born

in 1804 and died in this county October, 1869. The grandfather Prewitt’s name was

David. The maternal grandfather was an Englishman by birth and an extensive

agriculturist of South Carolina, where he resided for many years. Our subject is

the sixth of nine children. He was raised on a farm, attending the schools in the

vicinity. At the age of nineteen he entered Bethel College, at McLemoresville,

Carroll County, where he continued for three years. he then returned home and began

the study of medicine with his brother, Dr. N. H. Prewitt. In 1859 he began a

course at the Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia, Penn., and graduated at the

University of Nashville, February, 1861. The spring of the same year be began

practicing at Grand Junction. Soon afterward the late war broke out, and with

others he entered the Fourth Tennessee Infantry, Confederate service. In a short

time he was made surgeon of artillery, and the spring of 1862 was assigned surgeon

of the Twelfth Tennessee infantry, which he retained until the surrender. After

peace was restored he went to Arkansas, locating in Drew County, where he remained

until 1875, when he moved to present place of residence, forming a partnership with

his brother. Dr. Nathan Prewitt, who was medical railroad inspector, employed by

the National Board of Health. Dr. Thomas E. Prewitt was surgeon of the Illinois

Central Railroad, and inspector of the State and National Boards of Health during

the yellow fever siege of 1879, and is now director of the board of health at Grand

Junction, which position he has filled for past eight years. He is one of the most

popular and successful physicians and surgeons inn the county, and has performed

some wonderful operations within most favorable results. He is of good social

standing, highly respected, a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church South, and

prominently connected with the Masonic order and K. of H., also a stanch Democrat.

July, 1866, the Doctor wedded a daughter of Judge Dudley Dix Daniel of North

Carolina, Miss M. E. Daniel. To this union seven children were born, five of whom

are living: Dudley, James H., Malcolm Lee Roy, Bennona F. and Thomas W.







T. P. Pulliam



T. P. Pulliam, a well known farmer of Hardeman County, is a native of Montgomery

County, N.C., born October 6. 1822, the sixth of sixteen children born to Silas and

Sarah (Morgan) Pulliam, both natives of Montgomery County, N.C., where they were

married. In 1837 they immigrated to Tennessee and settled in Hardeman County. This

father, who was a farmer, was a Democrat in politics and was born in 1787 and died

in Hardeman County December 4, 1873. a worthy member of the Methodist Episcopal

Church. The mother, who was several years younger than the father, was a devout

member of the same church as her husband; she died in about 1862. T. P. secured by

his own efforts, a good academical education and at an early day began farming. At

the age of fifteen he came with his parents to Hardeman County, and except about

six years spent elsewhere he has made this his home ever since. In 1874 he settled

where he now lives, sixteen miles southwest of Bolivar. Mr. Pulliam has been a man

of unusual energy all his life and has been very successful as a planter. He began

life poor but with a good name, and by industry and economy has secured a fine

competency. Although he lost considerable by the late war, he yet owes, clear of

all encumbrances, upward of 800 acres of good land in his county. December 19,

1854, he married Mrs. Martha J. (Reagan) Hinson, a native of Hardeman County, born

April 6, 1828. They are the parents of nine children, five now living. Mr. Pulliam

is a stanch Democrat and is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church South. Mrs.

Pulhiam and three children are members of the same church.









William and Tabitha Reynolds



Prominent among the early settlers of Hardeman County were William and Tabitha

(Coburn) Reynolds, both natives of North Carolina. In 1824 William came to Hardeman

County and helped clear the forest from the spot where the town of Bolivar now

stands. Some time after this he married and settled in this county, making it his

permanent home. Their family consisted of seven children, only three now living.

The father was a Democrat before the war and a strong out-spoken Union man

afterward. For a calling in life he followed manufacturing and selling furniture.

He died in 1878. The mother is still living, is over three score and ten years of

age and is a member of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. William H., the eldest

son of William and Tabitha (Coburn) Reynolds, was born June 21, 1837, in Bolivar,

where he received his education. At the age of eighteen he took charge of his

father’s business, learning the cabinet-maker’s trade, at which he has worked ever

since. In 1867 he married Jennie Estes, and the fruits of this union were six

children, five of whom are living. In 1859 William H. went to Arkansas, where he

remained for some time. In 1866 he returned to Bolivar and since then has been

engaged in the undertaking and furniture business. In 1884 he opened a grocery and

hardware store and is engaged in this business at the present. He is also somewhat

interested in farming. He is a Democrat in politics and for forty-nine years has

made this county his home. Twenty years of that time he was intimately associated

with the business interests of Bolivar. Although not a church member, he is liberal

toward churches, schools and all other worthy enterprises. He also took an active

part in raising the funds and helped survey the grounds, etc., for the new asylum.

He is of Scotch-Irish origin.







Abraham Rhea



Dr. Abraham Rhea, a leading and skillful physician of Whiteville, was born February

25, 1830, in Maury County, Tenn. His parents were Matthew and Mary (Looney) Rhea,

both natives of Sullivan County, Tenn. Thie father was of Scotch-Irish extraction.

He was married and resided in Maury County until 1836, when he moved to Fayette

County and there passed the remainder of his life. His family consisted of thirteen

children, only five of whom are living. He and his wife were consistent members of

the Presbyterian Church. Mr. Rhea was a man of great culture and intellect. He had

a thorough liberal education and was considered a fine classical scholar. In early

life he completed a law course but never practiced to any great extent. After

abandoning his profession he taught school awhile, then turned his attention to

farming, but spent a great portion of his time with his books, of which he was very

fond. He made the first map of Tennessee, taken from a survey of the State. At

Somerville there is also a map he drewof Fayette County. He died in 1870 at the age

of seventy-five years. Mrs. Rhea, who was of English descent, departed this life in

1884, having attained the full ripe age of eighty. The grandfather, Mathiew Rhea,

was an officer of the Revolutionary war; for his gallantry, had the honor of being

presented with a very fine sword by the distinguished Gen. Greene. The great-

grandfather, Joseph Rhea, was a graduate of the University of Glasgow, Scotland,

and was a Presbyterian minister. The subject of our sketch spent his early days on

a farm; later he lived in Somerville, where his literary education was received. At

the age of eighteen he began the study of medicine under the guidance of Dr. A. F.

McKenzie. In 1853 he graduated at the Memphis Medical College. After several years

of extensive practice, he became a great sufferer from rheumatism and afterward

sold drugs for three years. In 1861 he volunteered in Company B, of the Thirteenth

Tennessee Infantry, Confederate service. After serving some fourteen months, he

stood an examination and was appointed surgeon, remaining in that position until

close of the war, when he came to Whiteville to practice medicine. He has met with

unusual success, receiving a liberal and lucrative patronage. He is acknowledged

throughout the section as one of the most able and popular physicians. In 1869 he

married Miss Emma L. Cross, who was born in 1846. To their union three sons and

four daughters have been born. Mrs. Rhea is a member of the Methodist Church and

the Doctor of the Presbyterian. He is also a strong Democrat and was a Whig

previous to the war.







John S. Robertson



Dr. John S. Robertson, a farmer and retired physician of Whiteville, was born July

7, 1819, in Wake County, N.C., the only survivimig member of a family of nine

children born to John and Mary (Barrham) Robertson. The father was a native of the

same State and county as his son. The mother was born in Virginia, but immigrated

with her parents when a small child to North Carolina, where sue was married. Both

were of Scotch-Irish extraction. In 1820 they moved to Madison County, Tenn., being

among the first settlers west of the Tennessee River. They were not connected with

any church, but were honorable and respected people. The father was a Whig; during

his entire life was a planter and very prosperous. He employed a large number of

hands. His death occurred in 1821, after which the mother lived with her family

until 1852, when she departed this life. The subject of this sketch was raised on a

farm and educated in the old field schools. About the time he attained his

majority, he began the study of medicine; afterward took a course in the Ohio

Eclectic Medical School at Cincinnati, where he graduated ni 1844. He immediately

began to practice in Henderson County, and in 1848 located in Hardeman County,

three miles west of Whiteville, where he engaged in the exercise of his profession,

and also agriculture, meeting with success in each. In 1870 he moved into the town,

where he has since resided. For fifteen years he was postmaster, at same time

keeping a drug store. After thirty-four years of active and profitable practice he

retired from his professional duties in 1880, and since that time has been giving

his: attention to his plantations. He owns some 700 acres of valuable land. Before

the war he was a Whig but since that time has affiliated with the Democratic party.

In 1844 the Doctor married Miss Amanda M. Wood, born in Henderson County, October

1, 1826. To their union three sons and one daughter were born: Andrew L., who was

in the army under Gen. Forrest’s command, and was killed at the battle of Memphis;

Eugenia C., Christopher W., also in Forrest’s command; and John B. Mrs. Robertson

was a true Christian woman, an earnest member of the Methodist Church. Her death

occurred in 1860. Three years later the Doctor wedded Miss Nannie M. Carnes, who

was born April 4, 1835. This marriage resulted in the birth of two children: Mary

W. and Carnes. The Doctor and Mrs. Robertson are active and esteemed members of the

Methodist Church.







Wiley W. Sammons



Elder Wiley W. Sammons, a prominent farmer of the Cedar Chapel District, was born

in Hardeman County, November 11, 1827. His parents were Allen and Sallie (Long)

Sammons, both of whom were of English extraction, born in Sussex County, Va., the

father in 1788 and the mother in 1795. They were married in 1811, remaining in

their native State until 1827, when they came to Hardeman County, being among the

early settlers. Eleven children blessed their union, of whom only two are living.

Mr. and Mrs. Sammons were zealous Christians. For thirty-three years he was one of

the most faithful and active ministers that the Primitive Baptist Church ever had.

All his efforts in the noble work were given without price or money. In connection

with his ministerial duties he engaged in farming and was one of the most

prosperous agriculturists of the county. He was a fife major in the war of 1812. He

was a strong, straight Democrat. He departed this life in 1862, and two years later

the mother, too, passed away. The subject of this sketch was raised on a farm,

receiving a fair education. He remained beneath the paternal roof until he attained

manhood’s estate, then began farming on his own responsibility, and met within

unusual success. Twice he was financially wrecked — once by the war, and again by

parties whom he assisted when they were embarrassed, and they afterward proved

faithless. Being possessed of a brave heart and much determination, he was soon

again in flourishing circumstances, and now owns 312 acres of valuable land. For

twenty-six years he has labored as an elder without pecuniary considerations of any

kind. Although he has ridden thousands of miles between North Mississippi, West

Tenmiessee and western Kentucky, he has never served for a salary. In 1850 he

married Miss Martha F. Wilkes, a daughter of Joseph Wilkes. Mrs. Sammons was born

October 16, 1833. A true Christian woman, and member of the Primitive Baptist

Church, she died in 1885. Of the ten children born of this union, three daughters

and two sons are living. J. A., the eldest son, is a minister. Late in the year of

1885 he wedded Miss Susan A. Price, who was born October 22, 1843. For fifty-nine

years Mr. Sammons has made Hardeman County his home and has seen the country change

from a wilderness to a fine farming district. His family is one of the oldest, most

useful and honored in the community.







J. D. Sasser



Dr. J. D. Sasser, a respected resident and popular physician of Middleton, was born

September 18, 1846, in Hardeman County. His parents, John and Mary Ann (Ewing)

Sasser, were natives of North Carolina. The father was born in 1784, and immigrated

to Tennessee at a very early day, settling in the Twelfth Civil District of

Hardeman County, where he remained until his death in 1876. The mother was born

about 1818, of Irish origin. She bore three sons and three daughters, all of whom

with their aged and beloved parents are still living. The Doctor was brought up on

a farm, and educated in the common schools. In 1872 he began the study of medicine

under guidance of Dr. T. B. McKey, and entered the Medical University of Louisville

September, 1874, graduating March 1, 1876, and returned to the old homestead where

he commenced the practice of his chosen profession. In December, 1877, he moved to

Middleton where he has since enjoyed an extensive and lucrative practice, in

cominection with which he is interested in merchandise business, the firm being

known as J. D. Sasser & Co. He is a devout member of the Missionary Baptist Church,

and belongs to the Masonic order and K. of H. He is a stanch Democrat. October 1,

1868, the Doctor married Rachel M. Grantham, whose father, Thomas G., was one of

the pioneer settlers of Tennessee. To this union two children were born: Rachel

Ann. and Margaret Grantham. Mrs. Sasser died September 25, 1872. The Doctor married

again January 23, 1878, to Isabella Swineboard of Bolivar, Tenn. There is no

inssue.







J. D. Sauls



Dr. J. D. Sauls, a prominent resident and physiciamin of Saulsbury, of English

descent, was born October 18, 1833, in Hardeman County. His parents were Burrell

and Jane (Mathis) Sauls. The father was born in North Carolina, August 17, 1800. He

went to Alabama in 1819, and shortly afterward immigrated to Tennessee, locating in

Hardeman County. He was a very prosperous and respected man. The town of Saulsbury

was named in honor of him. He donated considerable property for a depot site, and

did all in his power for the improvement of the place. The mother was born in

Georgia in 1812, and departed this life April, 1886. The subject of this sketch was

raised in Saulsbury. He began the study of medicine January, 1854. He entered the

Jefferson Medical College at Philadelphia, Penn., October of 1854, and graduated at

the University of Louisiana at New Orleans, in 1853. He returned to his native home

where he has since resided, and enjoyed the benefit of an extensive and lucrative

practice. He is a substantial and worthy citizen, esteemed by all who know him. He

is connected with the Masonic order, and is a stanch Democrat. September, 1857, the

Doctor married Diza Ann Jones, who died in 1873, without issue. He was wedded in

1874 to Mrs. A. M. Jones, whose husband died in October 1867 of yellow fever. She

is a daughter of J. M. and S. E. Oliver, whose births occurred respectively in 1800

and 1806, and died in 1842 and 1869. To Dr. and Mrs. Sauls two children have been

born: Diza E., who died in 1882, and Joseph. Mrs. Sauls has two children by her

first union: Moses L. and Mollie V. Jones. The Doctor and wife are consistent and

active members of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church.







Jefferson C. Savage



Jefferson C. Savage, trustee of Hardeman County, was born May 27, 1820, in Monroe

County, Ky. He is the only surviving one of a family of twelve children born to

Hamilton and Elizabeth (Martin) Savage, both of whom were born, raised and married

in North Carolina. Soon after marriage Mr. Savage moved to Kentucky, and about 1824

to Tennessee, locating in Hardeman County. He served in the war of 1812. He was a

Whig before the civil war, and afterward a strong Democrat. He was a successful

farmer. After the death of his first wife, he married Mrs. Paie. He was of English

descent, and Mrs. (Martin) Savage, Scotch-Irish. Both were members of the

Missionary Baptist Church. He died in 1865 at the age of eighty-four. The

grandfather was a soldier of the Revolutionary war; by birth a Virginian. He lived

to the remarkable age of one hundred and ten years. The subject of this sketch was

raised on a farm. His educational advantages were very limited, attending school

only about twelve months. He was an affectionate, dutiful son; devoted himself to

his parents as long as they lived. In 1843 he married Miss Lucy Dean, who was born

in 1811. To them six children were born — two sons and four daughters — two of whom

are living: Giles M., and Eudora F., wife of W. F. Prewitt, a farmer of the county.

In 1878 Mrs. Savage died. She was a member of the Missionary Baptist Church. Four

years later Mr. Savage married Mrs. Sallie Black. There is no issue. 1862 Mr.

Savage entered the army, first in Capt. Wilson’s company, and shortly afterward was

transferred to the company of Capt Wiley Higgs of which he was made first

lieutenant, serving in that capacity until close of war. During all of his active

and gallant service he was neither wounded nor captured. After the restoration of

peace he began farming, continuing until 1872 when he was called to his present

position. He has discharged the duties of his office in such a satisfactory and

creditable manner that he has been re-elected eight times in succession. He has

resided in the county for sixty-one years. He began life as a poor man, but by

honesty, industry and enterprise has accumulated nearly 900 acres of fine land and

considerable means. He is a generous contributor to all charitable and religious

institutions. He is an esteemed and worthy citizen. Mr. and Mrs. Savage are both

consistent members of the Missionary Baptist Church.







Reuben S. Scott



Reuben S. Scott, farmer of Hardeman County and resident of Hickory Valley, is a

native of Wake County, N.C., born February 23, 1825, son of Joseph and Susanna

(Halliburton) Scott. The parents were both natives of Wake County where they were

married and lived all their lives. The father was born in 1781 and was of Scotch

descent. He was a planter by occupation; for a number of years held the office of

magistrate and was at one time deputy sheriff of his county. He served as second

lieutenant of infantry in the war of 1812 and died in his native county at the age

of eighty-seven years. The mother was of English ancestry, born about 1786 and died

in the ninety-fourth year of her age. Reuben S. is the eleventh of a family of

twelve children and secured a good education. In 1849 he immigrated to Hardeman

County, Tenn., and with the exception of two years has ever since innade it his

home. In 1862 he enlisted as first lieutenant in Company L, Thirteenth Tennessee

Regiment (Infantry), was received in Cheatham’s division and participated in the

battles of Shiloh, Richmond, Perrysville and Murfreesboro, and on account of ill

health was honorably discharged in 1863. In 1868 he purchased the farm thirteen

miles southwest of Bolivar where he lived five years, but early in 1874 he moved to

Hickory Valley and has since been one of its substantial residents. He owns upward

of 400 acres of land, besides a town lot within sixty acres connected. May 23,

1850, Mr. Scott married Miss Ehiza J. Perry, a native of Chatham County, N.C., born

October 27, 1827. To this marriage have been born eight children, three of whom are

living. Mr. Scott is a Democrat in politics and he and family are members of the

Cumberhand Presbyterian Church.







Thomas Shea



Squire Thomas Shea, a respected resident of Pocahontas, Hardeman County, was born

February 1, 1844, in Kerry County, Ireland. He was the oldest of six children born

to John and Bridget Shea; all are living. The father died December, 1880. Our

subject with parents immigrated to America in 1852; they located in Memphis, Tenn.,

where they resided three years, then moved to Pocahontas where they have since made

their home. Squire Shea entered the Confederate service in 1861, at the early age

of sixteen years, in Company F, Ninth Tennessee Infantry. At Shiloh, April 7, 1862,

he was shot through the left lung, the ball entering about the seventh rib, and

coming out near the spinal column. This wound disabling him for active infantry

service, he consequently joined the cavalry troops, remaining with them until the

close of the war. He was captured May, 1863, near Tupelo, Miss., and imprisoned at

Alton, Ill. He was soon afterward exchanged. He was again taken prisoner October,

1863, at Bolivar but made his escape. After the surrender he returned home and

engaged in farming until 1878, when he embarked in merchandise, continuing in that

line until February, 1886. He was elected magistrate of the Nineteenth District in

1876, and has served the people in that capacity up to present date. He is acting

justice of the peace. October 1, 1865, he married Mollie E., daughter of Thomas H.

and Helen E. Neese, nee Patterson. This union resulted in the birth of six

children: John Neese, Clara E., Robert E., Mary Helen, Daniel O’Connell and James

Mack. Squire Shea is a self-made man, and respected, worthy citizen. He has always

been honest and industrious, by which means he has been enabled to accumulate

considerable means and property. He is a devout and consistent member in good

standing of the Roman Catholic Church, and a sound Democrat.







Benjamin A. Simmons



Benjamin A. Simmons, a prosperous farmer of the Fourth District, was born October

3, 1834, in Halifax County, N.C. He was the only son of James B. and Sarah

(Worrell) Simmons, both of whom were born, raised and married in 1829, in same

county and State that Benjamin was. They had four children. In 1853 the family

moved to Hardeman County, where the mother, who was a Primitive Baptist, died in

1867. Mr. Simmons was of English origin. He was a strong Democrat, and served many

years as magistrate, in his native State. By occupation he was a farmer, owning

quite an extensive plantation. In 1883 he wedded Miss Clara Willoughby, and in 1886

departed this life. The grandparents on both sides were Virginians. The subject of

this sketch spent his early life on a farm. He received an excellent academic

education. He made his home within his parents until long after his majority. In

1861 he married a daughter of Thos. H. Harris, Miss Martha O., who was born in

Hardeman County, September 20, 1844. Their union has been blessed with two sons and

three daughters. In 1861 Mr. Simmons volunteered with the South. Shortly afterward

he returned home and joined the One Hundred and Fifty-fourth Senior Regiment of

Tennessee, serving until the close of the war. He was never captured, but received

a severe wound at the battle of Jonesboro, Ga., and two others less serious. After

the restoration of peace, he returned home and found all of his stock, provisions

and household goods destroyed and gone. He began with absolutely nothing, but by

industry and judicious management has met with great success, and now owns 1,400

acres of laud. Thirty-three years he has lived in Hardeman County where he is

universally and favorably known. He is very liberal to all churches, schools or

beneficial enterprises.







Robert W. Smith



Robert W. Smith, farmer and magistrate of the Ninth Civil District of Hardeman

County, is a native of what is now Chester County, but at that time was a part of

Henderson. He was born March 17, 1847, and is the fourth of six children, all now

living born to Dr. John D. and Isabella (Dickson) Smith. They were married in

Chester County about the year 1841. The father was a physician of large practice,

and spent thirty years of his life in this profession. He was probably of English

extraction; was a native of North Carolina, born in 1804 and died in Chester

County, January 25, 1881. The mother was of Scotch-Irish descent, born in 1807, and

died in Chester County in 1851. They were both influential members of the

Missionary Baptist Church. Robert W. was principally educated at the college for

gentlemen at Jackson, Tenn., and after completing his education he taught school

for two years. In 1870 he formed a partnership with William G. Moore, and

established a general merchandise store, which business he soon exchanged for the

more congenial occupation of farming. In 1871 he took charge of the farm where he

now lives, a portion of it coming into his possession by his marriage. He now owns

1,500 acres of land, six improved lots in the town of Henderson, and a steam

cotton-gin and grist-mill. August 25, 1869, Mr. Smith married Miss Hattie A. Ham,

daughter of Daniel and Harriett Ham. The father died June 1, 1871, and the mother

is still living, making her home within her daughter. Mr. and Mrs. Smith have two

children: R. Frank, born August 3, 1874, and Joseph Dickson Smith, an adopted son.

Mr. Smith has held the office of magistrate for eight years, is a Democrat, and he

and wife are members of the Missionary Baptist Church.







Elias B. Stewart



Ehias B. Stewart, planter, is a native of Jefferson County, Ala., born November 3,

1832, the fifth of a family of mine children born to Elias and Elcy (Neighbors)

Stewart. The parents were married in Alabama, and in 1835 came to Tennessee and

settled in Hardeman County, where they spent the remainder of their lives. The

father was born in 1801 in Middle Tennessee, was a farmer, and a Democrat, and died

in 1854. The mother was a native of Jefferson County, Ala., and died in 1866. Elias

B. secured good educational advantages in youth, and began farming at an early age.

When an infant he came with his parents to Hardeman County, and has ever since made

it his home with the exception of four years, when he was in the Confederate Army.

In 1862 he enlisted with the South and was received into Forrest’s cavalry,

participating at Shiloh and Chickamauga and several other important engagements. He

was honorably discharged in the spring of 1865 in Mississippi, and then returned

home to resume farming. In 1873 he purchased the farm where he now lives, eleven

miles west of Bolivar, and has made life a success, owning at present 1,280 acres

of good land, besides owning a steam cotton-gin and grist-mill. January 27, 1859,

Mr. Stewart married Miss Lucy M. Farris, a native of Hardeman County, born in 1836,

and an estimable lady. They are the parents of eight children, six of whom are

living. He is a Democrat in politics, and a member of the Methodist Episcopal

Church. Mrs. Stewart and five children are members of the same church.







Thomas C. Stuart



Thomas C. Stuart, a leading merchant of Whiteville, is the eldest of six children

born to Arlington C. and Mary F. (Rochelle) Stuart. The father was of Scotch-Irish

descent, born in Sussex County, Va., in 1816; the mother is of French origin, born

in Southampton County, Va., in 1826. In 1844 they were married and moved to Haywood

County, Tenn., spending a portion of their time in that and Madison County, until

Mr. Stuart’s death, which occurred in 1861. He was a Democrat. Although not a

member of any church he was an honest respected and intelligent man. He and his

wife were highly educated, and engaged in schoolteaching many years, which

profession Mrs. Stuart still follows. After her husband’s death she and her

children settled in Hardeman County, where she is generally known, and is an

esteemed member of the Missionary Baptist Church. The subject of this sketch was

born September 4, 1845, in Haywood County. He was raised on a farm, forming a taste

f or that sort of life; he began agricultural pursuits on his own responsibility at

the age of sixteen. In 1863 he volunteered in Company K, Fourteenth Tennessee

Cavalry, Confederate service. He soon became courier for the colonel of his

regiment, so continuing until the close of the war. After the restoration of peace

he resumed his farming, and in 1869 married Mrs. Henrietta C. Sammons, daughter of

Joseph Wilkes. By her first marriage she had two children, and four by the union

with Mr. Stuart. He is a member of the Missionary Baptist Church, and his wife

belongs to the Cumberland Presbyterian. In 1879 Mr. Stuart moved into Whiteville;

he was interested in various kinds of business. In 1884 he established a grocery

store, since which time he has added a stock of dry goods, and is still engaged in

farming. He has been a magistrate for the past four years, still holding that

position. He has made his home in Hardeman County for a quarter of a century, and

been intimately connected with the mercantile interests of Whiteville for several

years. He is accounted a man of fine ability, and honorable and worthy citizen. He

is a Democrat.







H. W. Tate



Dr. H. W. Tate, one of the leading physicians of Bolivar, was born March 14, 1840,

in Burke County, N.C., and is a son of William Caldwell Tate, who was also a native

of North Carolina. The father was of Irish descent and a graduate of the medical

colleges at Charleston, S.C., and Philadelphia, Penn. He was a skillful physician

and a prominent man. He married Mrs. Laura (Wilson) Polk, a widow within two

children. By her union with Mr. Tate she became the mother of seven children — four

sons and three daughters. The oldest son, J. W., is a grocery and commission

merchant, and is doing a lucrative business. Robert A. is a practicing physician

and J. K. a farmer. The mother was of English extraction and died in 1848. Her

husband followed her in death in 1868. Our subject received a liberal education,

completing the same at Davidson College, North Carolina. After a course of medical

lectures at the University of New York he graduated at the Richmond Medical College

of Virginia in 1861, and immediately afterward entered the Confederate Army as

surgeon, in Stonewall Jackson’s command, where he continued until the close of the

war. In 1866 he came to Bolivar, where he has since resided, engaged in an

extensive and lucrative practice. He is also the owner of some valuable land and

considerable means. In 1867 he married Fannie, the daughter of Robert H. Wood, one

of the leading lawyers of West Temmnessee and the granddaughter, on the maternal

side, of Maj. John H. Bills, who was one of the original settlers of this place.

Mrs. Tate was born April 13, 1848, and by her union with our subject became the

mother of two children: Mary Lucy and Robert Wood. She is a worthy member of the

Presbyterian Church. Mr. Tate is a Democrat in politics and an excellent man.







Robert H. Walton



Robert H. Walton, one of the old and most respected residents of Hardeman County,

was born April 7, 1818, in Davidson County, Tenn. His parents were Mabrey and

Martha (Exum) Walton, both of English origin and born in Virginia. They came to

Sumner County, Tenn., when quite young; there they married and hived until about

1816, when they moved to Davidson County. In 1835 they settled in Hardeman County,

where the remainder of their lives was spent. Their family consisted of nine sons

and one daughter. Both parents were true members of the Missionary Baptist Church.

Mr. Walton was a farnier by occupation. He met a sad and shocking death when about

sixty-five years of age. He was staniding by a chimney during a severe storm, the

lightning struck it, killing him instantly. The mother lived to the advanced age of

eighty-two. The grandfather Walton served seven years in the Revolutionary war, and

the maternal grandfather procured supplies for the army. The subject of this sketch

was the fifth child; he was raised on a farm, receiving his education in the old

field schools. At eighteen he began life on his own repoininsibility. After keeping

a toll bridge across Hatchie River, he volunteered in Capt. R. P. Neely’s company,

to remove the Indians to their territory. After his return he began farming, which

has since been his occupation. In1842 he wedded Mrs. Sarah Kearney, by whom he had

three children, two of whom are living: Mary E., wife of D. E. Durrett, and Charles

A. April, 1886, Mrs. Walton died, she was an exemplary Christian, and a member of

the Missionary Baptist Church, a loving wife, a kind and affectionate mother,

useful and valuable member of society. Mr. Walton is also connected with the

Missionary Baptist Church. He is a strong old school Democrat. For six years he was

a magistrate, and coroner same length of time. As an agriculturist he has met with

great success having started in life within almost nothing, he has by judicious

management and energy been ennabled to purchase 500 acres of fine land. He has made

Hardemnan County his home for more than fifty years. He is well known as an honest

man and worthy, upright citizen.







Andrew J. Walton



Andrew J. Walton, farmer, was born in Davidson County, Tenn., March 25, 1828, the

ninth of ten children, three now living, born to Mabrey and Martha (Exum) Walton,

both natives of Virginia and of English descent. They were married in Middle

Tennessee and moved to Davidson County soon after. In the latter part of 1835 they

came to Hardeman County and here spent the rest of their days. The father was born

October 7, 1785, was a farnier, a Democrat and a member of the Missiommary Baptist

Church. His death was caused by a stroke of lightning July 15, 1851. The mother was

born February 1, 1787. She was a member of the Missionary Baptist Church and died

in Hardeman County May 16, 1868. Andrew J., at the age of seven years, came with

his paremits to Hardeman County and he has practically made this his home ever

since. In youth he received a good education and decided to make farmimig his life

occupation. In 1852 he purchased a portion of the old homestead and in a few years

became owner of the whole tract and has now 370 acres of hand in his county. In

1863 he entered the Confederate Army, enhisting in Company C, was received into

Gen. Forrest’s command and served under him until November, 1864, when by reason of

ill health, he returned home. Septemuber 10, 1868, Mr. Walton married Mrs. Nancy

(Marsh) Smith, a native of Hardeman County, born June 29, 1831. He is a Democrat in

politics, and although not a member of any church, is a firm believer in the Bible

and the Christian religion.







Alexander White



Alexander White, a well known resident of the Fifth District, of English origin,

was born June 4, 1823, in North Carolina. His parents were natives of the same

State. They were King and Telithia White. They moved to Tennessee and engaged in

farming. The father died in 1838, after which Alexander took control of the

homestead, which he is managing with success up to the present. He was married

February, 1847, to Mary E., daughter of W. D. and Maria Simmons. Their union

resulted in the birth of Maria Jane, wife of James Pirtle; George A.; James B.;

Tabitha Ann, the wife of Wm. Pirtle; Mary Emma, widow of Walter Pirtle; John H.,

Mathias O. (deceased); Jefferson Davis; Sarah Ann; Lucie F.; and Susie E. Mr. White

is a self-made man, who has accumulated his possessions by industry, economy and

judicious management. He is of good social standing and highly respected. Previous

to the late war he was a Whig; since that time he has been a Democrat.







Rufus D. Whitley



Rufus D. Whitley, one of the leading and well known farmers of Hardeman County, was

born September 12, 1840, in Johnson County, N.C. His parents were Haywood and

Esther (Gouringhiam) Whitley. Both were born, raised, married and died in the same

State and county in which Rufus first saw the light of day. Each was of Primitive

Baptist faith, although neither united with the church. They had two sons and one

daughter. The father was a Democrat and farmer by occupation. He died about 1846.

Mrs. Whitley married the second time to Henderson Graham, by whom she had seven

children — three sons and four daughters. One of the boys, E. B., is a Methodist

minister. The mother departed this life in 1861. The subject of this sketch was

raised on a farm. His educational advantages were very limited. In 1861 .he

volunteered in the Confederate service, Company D, of the Third North Carolina

Cavalry, in the division of Wm. H. Lee. During more than four years of faithful and

active service he was never wounded. At Comeus Crossing, south of Pittsburg, Va.,

he was taken prisoner and retained at Point Lookout for eight months. While in

confinement he learned to make horsehair watch-guards and thus earned the means

with which he supplied himself with the extras of prison life. After the close of

the war he returned financially ruined; he began life again by hiring on a farm and

teaching school. In 1867 he started to Mississippi, but his means gave out, and

meeting Martin Moore, he was induced to come to Hardeman County to work for him. In

the fall of same year he married Miss Margie R. Hammond, who was born November 3,

1839, in Haywood County. Their union has been blessed with four children: William

T., Jesse B., Rufus M. and Joseph A. Mr. and Mrs. Whitley and three older sons are

members of the Methodist Church. In politics Mr. Whitley is an ardent Democrats but

has never aspired to places of public trust, but by close attention to his affairs,

industry and economy, has risen from a tenant to the proprietor of 360 acres of

valuable and productive land as can be found in the county. He lends a liberal and

helping hand to all churches, schools and good enterprises. No man is more

respected or better known.







John A. Wilson



John A. Wilson, one of the leading merchants of Bolivar, was born May 27, 1832, in

Hardeman County, a son of John and Mary C. (Stuart) Wilson, both of whom were

natives of Kentucky where they were raised and married. They came to Hardeman

County in 1824 before the days of Bolivar. Their family consisted of two sons and

five daughters; three only are living. The father was an extensive planter. He was

a strong Whig. He belonged to no church but was a good and noble man. His death

occurred in 1837. He was of Irish origin, his father a soldier of the Revolutionary

war. The mother was a true Christian woman and member of the Cumberland

Presbyterian Church. She departed this life in 1872 after a lengthy widowhood. She

was of Scotch descent. The subject of this sketch was raised on a farm and received

a common-school education. From the age of sixteen until the outbreak of the war he

managed his mother’s farm. In 1859 he was married, in Marshall County, Miss., to

Miss Ann E., daughter of Hardin Frankhin, and granddaughter of Gov. Franklin of

North Carolina, in which State Mrs. Wilson was born in 1838. The fruits of this

union have been five children — three sons and two daughters. In 1862 Mr. Wilson

entered the Confederate service, Company B, under command of Gen. Forrest. He

served ten months, then was discharged. In 1866 he embarked in the mercantile

business in which he has been successfully engaged since that time. Previous to the

"late unpleasantness" he was a Whig and is now a stanch Democrat. For fifty-four

years he has been a resident of Hardeman County; twenty years of that time he has

been connected with the business interests of Bolivar. He is a man of ability and

honor. He has never been insolvent nor sued. He is an exemplary member of the

Cumberland Presbyterian Church and his wife of the Methodist.







J. W. Wilson



Squire J. W. Wilson, a prominent resident of Middleton, was born March 23, 1834, in

South Carolina. His father, Ashley H., was born in same State February 10, 1810. He

immigrated to Tennessee in 1840 and one year later moved to Tippah County, Miss.,

where he still lives an old and respected man and extensive farmer. The mother,

Martha P. (Janes) Wilson, was born in 1810 and departed this life in April, 1872.

She was the daughter of John Janes, an Englishman. The paternal grandfather, Joseph

Wilson, was a native of Ireland. The subject of this sketch was raised on a farm

and worked at that occupation until 1854. He then taught school until date of the

late war. He entered the Confederate service in 1861 in the Thirty-second

Mississippi. He was appointed recruiting officer and returned to Mississippi where

he organized a company, being elected first lieutenant of the same. They were

called Company K, Tenth Mississippi Regiment. He was wounded September 20, 1863, at

the battle of Chickamauga, receiving a shot through the right thigh which disabled

him for further service and since that time for manual labor. After the restoration

of peace he resumed teaching which, with the exception of two years in the drug

business, he has followed altogether. He was married in November, 1862, to Martha

A., the daughter of Joseph and Annie Janes. To the union six children were born,

four of whom are still living: Cora, Maurice, John and Joseph Ashley. Mr. Wilson is

a good man and respected citizen, a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church South.

He is connected with the Masonic order and a true Democrat. In August, 1876, he was

elected magistrate and has retained the office since that time. He is also notary

public for this end of the county.







J. W. Wilkes



Squire J. W. Wilkes, one of the best known residents and natives of Hardemon

County, was born September 17, 1835, the third of a family of three sons and six

daughters born to Joseph and Naomi M. (Barnett) Wilkes. The father was of English

descent, born in Davidson County, Tenn., in 1807, and raised in Humphreys Coumity.

His educational advantages were very limited. When only seventeen years of age he

plied a fiatboat on Hatchie River. Later he and his brother went to Haywood County,

and for several years kept "bachelors’ hall," and in 1826 he settled permanently in

Hardeman County. In 1829 he married Miss Barnett, who was of Irish extraction, born

in Kentucky in 1809 and died in 1847. His second union was with Mrs. Rebecca J.

Kirkpatrick, by whom he had two sons and four daughters. The second wife died in

1875. Some time afterward he wedded Miss Ann Robley. He and each of his wives were

members of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church, he having joined when a lad of

twelve years. He was a stanch Democrat, and successful agriculturist. Having

started in life a poor man, by hard work and good management he became owner of

more than a thousand acres of land. He died March 3, 1881. The subject of this

sketch was reared on a farm. After attending the schools in the vicinity he took a

thorough course in the McLemoresville College, Carroll County, preparatory to the

study of. medicine, but failing health compelled him to abandon this desire, and he

turned his attention to farming. In 1858 he married Emily J. Mitchell, who was born

in Middle Tennessee November 17, 1838, a daughter of James and Mary W. Mitchell, a

most highly respected family. The father was a native of South Carolina, and the

mother of Tennessee. Squire and Mrs. Wilkes have two children: John W., Jr. and

Emmett C. Mrs. Wilkes is a member of the Methodist Church, and Mr. Wilkes of the

Cumberland Presbyterian. He is a strong Democrat. He was a stanch Union man, but

when war became the last resort he went out, in 1863, in Company F, Fourteenth

Tennessee Cavalry, Confederate service. During more than two years of active duty

he was neither wounded nor captured. At the close of the war he returned home, and

resumed farming with comparatively nothing, but by hard work, energy and judicious

management he has accumulated considerable property, owning 1,100 acres of fine

land. In 1866 he was made magistrate, giving so much satisfaction that he held the

office for eighteen years, declining to serve any longer. He has been a residemit

of Hardeman County all his life, and no man in the community has a fairer name. He

is charitable, and an honest, worthy citizen.







Charles Wood



Charles Wood, a well known and enterprising farmer of Hardeman County, is a native

of Virginia, born in Albemarle County, March 25, 1824, son of James and Frances A.

(Allen) Wood, both of English descent and natives of Albemarle County, Va. They

were married in Virginia in 1823, and in 1826 immigrated to Tennessee and settled

in Hardeman County. The father was born February 22, 1797, was engaged in the

mercantile business in Virginia, but after coming to Tennessee gave his attention

exclusively to farming. He was a Democrat, and a member of the Presbyterian Church.

He died in Hardeman County, February 7, 1867. The mother was born in June, 1804; is

a member of the Presbyteriamin Clmurch and is now living in Hardeman County.

Charles received his education at Danville, Ky., and in 1846 settled on a. farm six

miles west of Bolivar, and has since been one of Hardeman County’s substantial and

worthy citizens. In 1872 he located where he now lives, and owns upward of 2,400

acres of hand. June 22, 1858, Mr. Wood was united in marriage to Miss Blanche E.

Wharley, a native of Michigan, born November 5, 1838. She is a lady highly esteemed

by all and a member of the Episcopal Church. They are the parents of nine children

— five sons and four daughters. Mr. Wood is a Democrat and a member of the

Presbyterian Church.







John D. Woods



John D. Woods, magistrate of the Second Civil District of Hardeman County, is a

native of the county where he resides, born August 29, 1847. His ancestors were

among the first settlers of Hardeman County. His grandfather, David Woods, who was

a native of North Carolina and of Scotch-Irish descent, made a settlement in this

county as early as 1824. The parents of the subject of this sketch were Samuel M.

and Narcissa (Robinson) Woods. The father, who was a native of Orange County, N.C.,

born February 16, 1821, came with his parents, when an infant, to Hardeman County.

He was a farmer by occupation, a Democrat in politics, and died in this county May

5, 1849. The mother is of Scotch-Irish-French descent, born in Hardeman County,

March 29, 1824, and is now a resident of Tipton County, the wife of Joseph H.

Shinault, to whom she was married in 1852. John D. is the elder of two children

born to his parents, and received a good education in his youth, whinich has since

been greatly improved by extensive and select reading. For several years he taught

school, and in 1879 came into possession of the old homestead, and since then has

been an active an enterprising planter. August 2, 1879, Mr. Woods married Mrs.

Annie (McLarty) Hunt, a cultured lady, born in Hardeman County November 26, 1846.

To this union two children have been born: David, born July 14, 1880, and Bessie,

born March 2, 1883. In August, 1882, Mr. Woods was elected to the office he now

holds, and for six years has been school director of the Second District, and being

a man of liberal views he is a strong advocate of the free school system; has done

much toward advancing the educational interests of the county. He is a Democrat,

and though not a member of any church, is a firm believer in Christianity and is in

sympathy with the doctrines of the Methodist Episcopal Church South, of which Mrs.

Woods is a member.







R. M. Wright



R. M. Wright, a member of the prominent firm of Wright & Durden, of Saulsbury, was

born December 3, 1834, in Madison County, Ala. His parents were John annd Hannah

(Moore) Wright. His father is supposed to have emigrated from Ireland to Virginia

at an early day, and moved to Alabama, where he died about 1837. The mother was a

native of Alabama and died when our subject was a very small child. H. M. worked on

a farm until about nineteen years of age, at which time he obtained a situation as

clerk in the drug store of W. B. Wright & Co. of Memphis. As he had almost no early

educational advantages he had to work for his board and clothes half of the day and

night, attending the public schools of the city the remainder of the day. Thus he

struggled on, applying himself every spare moment to study, until he has acquired a

valuable and practical store of information. September, 1857, he came to Saulsbury

and engaged as a salesman for A. G. Dennis & Co., for the small amount of $150 per

annum. This place he kept until the war. He entered the Confederate service in

Company C, of the Twenty-second Tennessee Regiment. He was appointed sergeant by

Gen. Bragg, which position he retained during the conflict. He participated

actively in all the engagements into which his command was drawn, but met with no

serious accident. After the surrender he returned to Memphis and clerked for

Taylor, MeEwen & Co. for a short time. August, 1865, he secured a place with W. W.

R. Elliotte of Saulsbury. January, 1867, he formed a partnership with W. Durden and

established a store, where they have since been engaged, and with no small amount

of success. Mr. Wright is today one of the most solid and honored citizens in the

community. He began life without capital and with little education, but had

sufficient ambitioi and courage to overcome the difficulties with which he was

surrounded. He is an elder in the Cumberland Presbyterian Church, a prominent

member of the Masonic fraternity and K. of H. He is a stanch Democrat. August,

1865, he was married to Samuella Bunting, a daughter of Samuel and Eliza Bunting.

This union resulted in the birth of four children. Mrs. Wright died August, 1874.

January 28, 1875, Mr. Wright wedded Maggie Williams, a daughter of Joe C. and Mary

Ross (Lake) Williams. This second union has been blessed with two sons and two

daughters.







Hiram B. Wynn



Hiram B. Wynne, a prominent merchant of Whiteville, was born February 16, 1851, in

Humphreys County, Tenn. His parents were John W. and Frances S. (Traylor) Wynne.

The father was born in Benton County, Tenn., in 1818, and the mother in Humphreys

County, same year. John W. was a captain of flatboats, owning an interest in some

of them. In his early life he was rather careless of his means, which rendered him

an objectionable suitor, but he afterward settled down and became one of the best

men in the community. Of the eight children born to their union, two sons and one

daughter are living. In politics Mr. Wynne was a Jacksonian Democrat and a strong

Union man. His wife was a true, good woman. She never united with any church. The

subject of this sketch was raised and received an excellent education in his native

county, remaining at home until 1878, when he began life for himself. In 1879 he

married Miss Annie Sedden, born July 20, 1861. Their family consists of Willie B.,

Albert E. and Annie C. Mrs. Wynne is an estemiable lady and sincere member of the

Cumberland Presbyteriau Church. The year of his marriage Mr. Wynne opened a first-

class grocery store, and in June, 1886, he purchased a drug stock of Mitchell and

another of Robertson. Both houses are in a flourishing condition and receiving an

extensive patronage. He is also interested in farming. He is the postmaster of

Whiteville, and well versed in law, practicing in the magistrate’s office. He has

been a resident of Hardeman County eleven years, and with the exception of a short

period, closely associated with the commercial interests of the town in which he

lives, and is regarded ae one of the most substantial, enterprising and upright

citizens. He is a stanch Democrat.







Alex F. Yopp



Alex. F. Yopp, sheriff of Hardeman County, where he was born January 10, 1846, is

the eldest of a family of seven children born to Dr. Wm. T. and Elizabeth (Coleman)

Yopp. The father is of English descent, was born in North Carolina in 1826, and the

mother in Rutherford County, Tenn. Both came to the county when quite young, where

they were raised and married. Dr. Wm. Yopp received his education in Memphis. For

thirty-five years he was one of the most successful and popular physicians in the

entire section. He retired from practice in 1883, and since that time has been

engaged in agricultural pursuits. He and his wife are consistent and respected

members of the Methodist Church. Our subject was raised on a farm and received his

education in the common schools of the county. Before the age of fifteen, in 1862,

as a volunteer, he entered the Confederate service, Company A, Fourteeminth

Tennessee Cavalry. During three years of bravery and active service he was but once

taken prisoner; he was held about four months. At the battle of Franklin he

received a wound in the face by a minie-ball. After the war he engaged in farming

until 1876, when he moved to Bolivar. He held the position of deputy sheriff from

1872 to 1876. He was twice a candidate for the office of sheriff and each time

defeated, but in 1882 was elected. He has given such entire and perfect

satisfaction that he has been enabled to retain the place since that time. In

connection with his official duties he deals extensively in horses. For eight years

he has been a public servant, and has proved himself an efficient officer, an able

and honorable man. In 1867 he was united in marriage to Miss Pattie Yoakum, who was

born in 1847. To them have been born four children: Elmo, Neely, Ike and Harry.

Mrs. Yopp is an earnest and respected member of the Methodist Church. Mr. Yopp has

never united with any denomination. In politics he is a Democrat.