SOURCE: History of Southern Arkansas. Chicago: The Goodspeed Publishing Co., 1889.
JOHN AHRENS
Among the young men of the old country who had the pluck, energy and enterprise necessary to brave the hardships of life in a foreign land was Mr. Ahrens, whose birth occurred in Hanover, Germany, on March 14, 1833 and who came to the United States in December, 1856. He is a son of Augustus Ahrens, a native of Bohemia, who lived to a very old age, but the dates of his birth and death are not definitely known. He was a professional book-binder, and removed from Bohemia to Germany during the war with Napoleon, and was in the Austrian army. His wife, the mother of the subject of this sketch, was Sophia Simmons, a native of Hanover, Germany, born near Breman. She also lived to a very advanced age, and died during the early part of the sixties. Their marriage took place in 1823, and their union was blessed in the birth of eight children, only four of whom are now living: Rosetta(wife of J.N. Israel, of Philadelphia, Penn.), Mary A. (wife of Mark A. Cahue, of Germany), John, and Helena (wife of Mr. Frosch, of Chicago.) Those deceased are: Henry (who died in Drew County, Ark. in 1888), Garson (who died in Germany) and two children who died in infancy. John Ahrens was reared in Hanover, but unlike the majority of German youths his early educational opportunities were not of the best, and at the early age of fifteen he began learning the candle-maker's trade, continuing eighteen months, then turned his attention to cigar-making, which trade recieved his attention for four years. At the expiration of this time he turned his attention to farming, continuing three years, but at the time of his removal to the United States he was engaged in merchandising. For two years after his arrival in Arkansas he was engaged in the manufacture of cigars, but has since been engaged in farming,and is now the owner of eighty acres of land in Drew County, and a good home in Monticello. He also gives as much of his attention to the fire insurance business, and as agent for the Waters Pierce Oil Company is doing exceptionally well. December 27, 1860, he was united in marriage to Miss Nancy E. Brooks, a native of Alabama, and a daughter of Willis T. Brooks, who is now residing iin Ashley County. Mrs. Ahrens passed from this life September 6, 1870, having borne a family consisting of one son and three daughters:Sarah A. (wife of H.O. Moss, a resident of Lincoln County), Mary A. (wife of John H. Dellmon, of Pine Bluff, Ark), Elia (wife of William Evans, a farmer of Ashley County), and one son, William Henry, who was born April 26, 1867, and is now in Texas. Mr. Ahrens' second marriage took place at Monticello, Drew County, Ark., May 17, 1876, his wife being Miss Emily A. Farrell, who died June 24, 1890, a native of Mississippi, and a daughter of William M. Farrell 9who died April 26, 1890) of Bradley County, Ark. Four children have blessed this union also: Darwin, Elmo, Albert A. and Maud. In the month of MArch, 1862, Mr. Ahrens enlisted in the Confederate service, becoming a member of COmpany F, Second Arkansas Calvary, commanded by Col. Slemons, and while serving with Gens. Forrest, Wheeler, Fagan, and other calvary generals, took an active part in the battles of Corinth (second battle), Middleton, Tenn., Denmark of the same State, and was with Price on his famous Missouri raid. He returned home at the close of the war without parole or discharge. Politically he is a Democrat, and has been justice of the peace. He is a Freethinker, but his wife was a member of the Missionary Baptist Church. He is a Master Mason, belonging to Eureka Lodge No. 40 at Monticello.
S.A. ALLEN
S.A. Allen, farmer, Monticello, Ark. Mr. Allen's parents, Samuel and Mary (Matthews) Allen, were natives of North Carolina, and his grandfather, John Allen, was a native of Ireland, who came to the United States at an early day, and died before the Revolutionary War. The latter had one son, John Allen, Jr., who served all through that war. Samuel Allen was born in 1800, and was a large planter of Tennessee, whither he had moved about 1833. He was the owner of about fifteen slaves, and moved to this county about 1859, where he resided until his death in 1882. His wife died in 1887. Of the twelve children born to their union, five are now living: Andrew Newton (owner of a large steam grist, and planing mill and cotton-gin), John W. (an M.D. of Bradley COunty), S.A. and Jay (an M.D. of Baxter). S.A. Allen commenced farming for himself in Drew Countyin 1861, and in June of the following year joined the Confederate Calvary, serving until the close of the war. He was made second lieutenant, but served as captain of his company on account of the sickness of the captain and first lieutenant. He participated in the battles of Prairie Grove, Pilot Knob, Jefferson City, Kansas City, and served throughout Price's raid. He was wounded in a skirmish, and had the misfortune to lose the forefinger of his left hand. He was mustered out of service at Monticello in June 1865, just three years from the time of enlistment. Returning home he commenced farming on the old homestead, and there he has since remained. He owns 200 acres of land,and has 100 acres under cultivation, raising cotten principally. He was married on September 13, 1859, to Miss Elizabeth J. Matthews, a cousin of his, who was born in North Carolina on September 15, 1841, and who is the daughter of JAmes B. and Elizabeth Jane (Stitt) Matthews, natives of North Carolina. To Mr. and Mrs. Allen have been born two children: Lucius Thomas (whose birth occurred in 1861, who is married, and is now residing at home), and Linnie Neva (who was born in 1875). Mr. Allen is a member of the Wheel, and is one of the leading farmers of the county and State. He and wife belong to the Old School Presbyterian Church, and he is a Democrat in his political views.
JAMES MADISON AUSTIN
James Madison Austin, farmer, was born on August 21, 1828, in the county of Madison, Ala., to Pleasant and Mary (Smith) Austin, one of their family of two sons and three daughters. In the case of Mr. Austin the oft-abused phrase, "self-made man", seems to have a true illustration, for his rise in life has been accomplished through his individual efforts, and by a constant, earnest industry. His boyhood days were spent in the State of his birth, and at the early age of fifteen years he began life for himself as a farm laborer, continuing for three years, then moved to Mississippi and followed the same occupation, returning to Alabama on a visit at the end of about one year. Mississippi again became his residence a short time after, and from here he enlisted in the Mexican War, becoming a member of the Second Mississippi Riflemen, but only served from January to July, 1848, when he again went to his old home in Alabama. Here he continued to reside until 1852, then removed to Arkansas and settled at Gaines Landing, on the Mississippi River with in Chicot County, and for some time was engaged in supplying steamboats plying on the Mississippi River with cordwood. After seeking to improve his education by attending school for some time, he embarked in the grocery business at Gaines Landing, but two years later purchased a wood yardin Mississippi on the Mississippi River, which he continued to successfully conduct for one year. His next adventure was to purchase some land of the North American Land Company, but after following the plow for about three years, he sold his land and again entered mercantile life, being thus engaged for a year or more. In 1862 the Federal troops made a raid upon his store and carried away all his goods, after which he moved to Drew County, Ark., and followed farming near Bayou Bartholomew, and here purchased a large farm, in 1872, and is now the owner of 390 acres of as good land as there is in the county, 225 acres of which are under cultivation, and devoted to the raising of corn, cotton and small grains. On his farm is a fine steam grist-mill and cotton gin, and a part of his land is in Desha County and part in Drew County. Mrs. Austin also owns a good farm in Drew County, of which thirty five acres are under cultivation. He was in the army during the latter part of the Civil War, but was not in active service. Mr. Austin has been married three times, first October 5, 1855, to Miss Eliza J. Wylie, a native of Arkansas, and a daughter of one of the pioneers of that State. She died in 1859 in Chicot County, leaving a daughter, Mary Frances, now the wife of Alfred L. Pounders, a farmer of Drew County. His next union took place in Drew County, in November, 1867, to Miss Mattie Fitzgerald, a native of Arkansas, who died in 1870, having borne one child, a daughter named Katie, who died in childhood. His marriage to his present wife took place in Drew County, December 6, 1872, she being a Mrs. Susan J.L. Smith, widow of Tilman M. Smith, and a daughter of Jonathan P. and Elizabeth L. (Alexander) Davis, the former's death occurring in in Arkansas in April 1862, and the latter's in March, 1874. Mrs. Austin was born in Kentucky July 22, 1839, and by her former husband became the mother of two children: Mary L. (wife of H.L. Henry, a merchant of Drew County), and Alice D. (wife of Thomas B. Chester, also a resident of Drew County). Mrs. Austin is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, South, and in his political views Mr. Austin is a Democrat. He was accidentally shot in the arm near the elbow in 1854, at Gaines Landing, and in June 1867, was way-layed and shot a second time, and for many years both his arms have been comparitively useless to him. He inherits Irish and Welsh blood from his parents, and his father was a native of Smith County, Ga., born in 1808. He was reared and educated in his native State, was a physician by profession, a Jacksonian Democrat, and for years was bailiff of his township. He died in Alabama September 1, 1844. His wife was born in South Carolina, a daughter of Hughey Smith, and died in Drew County, Ark.,in 1869, having removed to this State in 1858. They were married in Alabama, and became the parents of five children, only two of whom are living: James M. and Prudence E. (widow of Jerry Ledbetter, in Texas). Those deceased are: John O.T., Cynthia N. and a daughter who died in infancy.
R.M.L. BAKER
R.M.L. Baker is one of the prosperous general merchants of Drew County, Ark., his place of business being at Collins. He was born in Meriweather County, Ga., May 30, 1846, being a son of John and Jane (Bussey) Baker, both of whom were born in the State of Georgia, the former on September 12, 1815, and the latter February 19, 1819. They were marriedon February 22, 1838, and in due time a family of thirteen children was born to them, the following of whom are now living: Louisa E., Francis M., Marissa R., Robert M.L., Georgia E., Major M., Ella J., Kittie L. and Captain L. Seven of the family reside in Arkansas, one in Texas and one in Florida. The father was a mechanic and farmer by occupation, and at the time of his death was the owner of 480 acres of land, which was divided between his heiors. He became a resident of Arkansas in 1856, and in Drew County he laid the foundation of his fortune. He was a Democrat, held the office of justice of the peace while a resident of Georgia, and died at his home in Arkansas July 31, 1869, followed by his wife on April 11, 1880, both having been earnest members of the Baptist Church. Robert M.L. Baker was reared and educated in Drew County, and in the year 1871 began life for himself as a clerk, and in September of the same year began retailing whiskys and family groceries. On March 20, 1872, he was married to Miss Marietta Gates, a native of Texas, and a daughter of David Gates, but on September 16, 1877, he was called upon to mourn her death, she having borne him two children: Mell J. and Annie B. In 1879 Mr. Baker married Miss Mollie L. Pyron, she having been born in the State of Arkansas, and a daughter of John C. and Isabel Pyron, and to their union two children have been born: Christla and Mary A. Mr. Baker is now following merchandising and farming, his stock of goods being valued at $5,000, and the amount of land he owns is 485 acres, of which seventy-five acres are under cultivation. He is a member of the Masonic order, the K. of H., and he and Mrs. Baker are members of the Baptist Church, in which he is a deacon. Mr. Baker is a useful and honorable citizen, and owing to his many worthy qualities has many warm friends.
DR. F.M. BAXTER
Dr. F.M. Baxter, merchant, Monticello, Ark., Well-directed energy and honorable dealing always tell in business, and indeed in everything else. Dr. Baxter has conducted a very prosperous business at this place, since 1887, and during the whole time that has elasped, his trade has advanced by rapid strides, until today he is in the enjoyment of as good a trade as any merchant in the city. Dr. Baxter was originally from Hickman County, Tenn., where his birth occurred, June 3, 1843, and is the son of Andrew and Violet (Barron) Baxter, natives of South Carolina. The father was a sucessful tiller of the soil, and he and family emigrated to Tennessee about 1836. There they remained until 1874, and then came to Monticello, Ark., where the father died in 1880, and the mother in 1885. To their marriage were born twelve children, nine now living. Dr. F.M. Baxter was educated in the common schools of his native county, in Tennessee, reared to the duties of farm life, and there remained until twenty one years of age. He then began the study of dentistry, and graduated at Vanderbilt School of Dentistry, in 1879. The same year he came to Monticello and practiced his profession, until the fall of 1887, when he engaged in mercantile pursuits, and this he has since carried on. He has a first-class stock of goods, and is doing a flourishing business. He is also interested to some extent in real estate. His marriage occurred in 1885, to Miss C.A. Higgason, by whom he has two children: Edgar G. and Roy H. Mr. and Mrs. Baxter are members of the Presbyterian Church.
HENRY C. BIGGS
Henry C. Biggs has met with well-deserved success in pursuing the calling of a planter, and is now the owner of 440 acres of land. He was born February 11, 1822, and is a son of Elias and Margaret (Guess) Biggs, who were born in Virginia, in 1793 and 1796, respectively. The father was a mechanic by trade, and this occupation recieved his attention until his death, which occurred in 1852, in the State of Mississippi, whither he had moved in 1847. His widow followed him to the grave in 1878, she being a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church at the time of her death. Mr. Biggs was a soldier in the War of 1812, and he and his wife became the parents of a family of fourteen children: Joseph, William, Delphia, Susan, Elizabeth, Benjamin, Henry C., Mary, Betsy, Malinda, Margaret, Amanda, Alexander and Irvin. Ten of the family are still living, four residing in Arkansas, one in Mississippi, one in Illinois, two in Alabama and two in Texas. Henry C. Biggs recieved his education in Marshall County, Ala., and in 1847 settled in Drew County, Ark., where he opened up a farm and still resides. He was married to Caroline Berry, in 1852, she being a native of Arkansas, but she died the following year, leaving an infant, Henry. Miss Mary McMurray became his wife in 1855, and by him has become the mother of the following children: Rufus, William, Price, Emma, Street, Joseph, Benjamin, Melviney, Joan and Phelix. The manner in which Mr. Biggs has acquired his present estate denotes him to be an energetic, successful agriculturist, and everything about his place is kept in good condition, all necessary buildings forming a prominent feature of the improvements. Mr. and Mrs. Biggs are worthy members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, South.
MILTON A. BINNS
Milton A. Binns, a leading planter of Drew County, Ark., was born in Talbot County, Ga., August 30, 1836, his parents, Burrell and Lucinda (Phelps) Binns, being also natives of that State, the former's birth occurring on December 6, 1811. They were married October 29, 1835, and to them a family of nine children was born, five of whom are still living, and all are residents of Drew County. Their names are Milton A., Sarah A., Edna V., Mary J. and Burrell. The father of these children was a merchant, and in January, 1856, emigrated from his native State to Arkansas by wagons, and resided in Drew County until his death January 1, 1866, his widow's occurring in the month of February, 1872. They were members of the Baptist Church, and he was a Mason of high rank. The paternal Grandfather, Burrell Binns, was a native of Virginia. Milton A. Binns attended the common schools of Georgia, and upon his father's removal to Arkansas in 1857 he came with him, but returned to his native State two years later and was married there, November 10, 1858, to Susan A. Dupree, who was born in Georgia, a daughter of Drury and Elizabeth A. Dupree. Shortly after his marriage he located permanently in Arkansas, and have here reared their family: Beulah (wife of J.D. Jackson), Christopher C., Emma C.,(who married H.B. James), John M., Daisy, Starling G., Mida M., Willie W., James H. and Dora. Charles B. died in infancy. Mr. Binns has a valuable farm of 320 acres, with 60 acres under cultivation, and is a man whom all look up to and respect. He is a member of Lacy Lodge No. 46, A.F. & A.M.,and has represented his lodge in the Grand Lodge three different times. He has held the office of justice of the peace one term, is a member of the Agricultural Wheel, and he and wife belong to the Baptist Church.
OLIVER P. BOND
Oliver P. Bond, farmer and stock-raiser, Nelson, Ark. A gallant soldier for a number of years in the Confederate service during the late war, and a man whose life has been an active one, Mr. Bond is now occupied in the cultivation of his farm of eighty acres, and is also engaged in the blacksmith trade. He was born in Georgia Juoly 21, 1843, and is the son of William P. and Eliza E. (Amos) Bond, natives of South Carolina and Georgia, respectively. The father was born in 1808, was a successful agriculturist, and cam e to Drew County, Ark., in 1857. At the breaking out of the war he enlisted in the Third Arkansas Calvary in July, 1861, was commissioned second lieutenant, and served until 1862, when he returned home and again engaged in farming. He died in 1880. He was the son of William and ___ (Brown) Bond, and the grandson of William Bond, who was born in England, but of Irish descent, and who came to the United States a short time previous to the Revolutionary War, in which he participated, and located in South Carolina. The mother of our subject died in 1889. Oliver P. Bond was the second eldest of seven children born to his parents, five of whom are living: Oliver P., Edward R. (farmer of Saline Township, and the owner of about 360 acres of land), Carrie (now Mrs. Stephenson of this township), Thomas (in the railroad business in Utah), and Dr. R.R. (of this township). Oliver P. Bond was educated in the academy of Woodbury, Ga., and was but fifteen years of age when his father moved to this county. He commenced farming in 1867, but previous to this, in May, 1861, he enlisted in the First Arkansas Infantry, and served iin that regiment until the close of the war. He participated in the battles of Shiloh, Farmington, Mumfordsville, Perryville, Murfreesboro, and was ther wounded and captured by Union Troops. He was conveyed to Camp Morton, Ind., where he was retained until August 1864, when he, in company with seven others, disarmed the guards and succeeded in making their escape. He did not escape from that State, however, and so engaged in the harness and hardware business in Martinsville, Ind., where he remained until 1866. He then returned home, and as above stated, engaged in cultivating the soil. This he continued in connection with the blacksmith trade, which he had learned previous to the war, and in 1880 moved to his present farm. He was married in 1866 to Miss Helen I. Ragland, a native of Georgia, born in 1841 and the daughter of John S. Ragland. To Mr. and Mrs. Bond have been born four children: Reola, Mary J., Carrie, and William E. Mr. Bond is a member of the County Wheel, and he was also president of the County Club.
FRANCIS M. BORDEAUX
Francis M. Bordeaux is one of the successful agriculturists of Drew County, Ark., owning 260 acres of land, and his farm, which comprises sixty acres in cultivation, is very fertile and carefully tilled, and consequently yields a large annual income. He farms on the improved plan, using fertilizing preparations to improve his land, and his operations are being attented with the best results. He was born on July 22, 1842, in New Hanover County, N.C., being a son of Daniel Bordeaux, who resided on the place that was settled by his great-grandfather, a French Huguenot. He remained in his native State until he was twenty-six years of age, then came to Arkansas, and married one of Drew County's daughters, Miss Rebecca Lamb, after which he purchased eighty acres of fine ridge land, and proceeded to make a home with the above mentioned results. His union has resulted in the birth of the following children: Ernest E., La Fayette, Marguerite K., Leonora L., Eurenus Julia, Helen F., Alice Rebecca, and Daniel T. In the month of June, 1861, Mr. Bordeaux enlisted in the COnfederate army, remaining until after Lee's surrender under the command of D.H. Hill, commanding division in Company C., First North Carolina State Troops Infantry, but after the death of Gen. Jackson, who commanded the corps, he was under Gen. Eell. He was in the attacking party in the seven days' fight at Mechanicsville, remaining all through the battle, and was also in the fight and skirmish in the Shenandoah Valley, at Gettysburg and Harper's Ferry, being also in the seven days' fight at Richmond. He was taken prisoner at Spottsylvania and remained a prisoner of war until the cessation of hostilities when he was paroled and returned home, where he has devoted his time and attention to the peaceful pursuit of farming. He has held the office of justice of the peace for six years in succession, and is a man who commands the respect of all who know him. He is a member of the Farmer's Alliance.
C.M. BOYD
C.M. Boyd, planter, Monticello, Ark. It can not be denied that a man who lives according to the highest principles of what he conceives to be right, helping others and caring for those unable to do for themselves, in a word, keeping as his aim the golden rule, will receive the most honored esteem of his fellow creatures. Such a one is the subject of this sketch. Born in Chicot COunty, Ark., March 6, 1839, he was the son of Frank A. and Frances E. (Morrell) Boyd. The father was a native of Laurens District, S.C., born in 1809, and the mother was a native of Mississippi, born August 10, 1817, where they were married June 18, 1838. The father came to Mississippi when a boy, and in 1838, with his wife and two children, came to Arkansas and located in Union, now Chicot County, near grand Lake, where he entered a large tract of land. He was one of the first settlers of that region, and suffered many of the privations incident to pioneer life. Wild animals were numerous, and his table was almost always supplied with bear meat or venison. In 1848 the family removed to Ashley County, Ark., which was then Drew County, and there remained until 1880, when they came with our subject to Monticello. At this place both passed the closing scenes of their lives, the father dying January 6, 1887, and the mother September 24, 1886. They were the parents of ten children: Marcus D., Charles M. and Young P. (now living). The father was a farmer all his life, and was an honest, industrious citizen. C.M. Boyd was principally reared in Ashley County, and was brought up to hard labor on the farm, which he assisted his father in clearing. He remained at home until the war broke out, and in 1861 enlisted in Capt. Wether's company, and served until the surrender. He was in the calvary, and had a horse shot under him. Upon the reorganization of the regiment he was made lieutenant, and was also in the commissary department for some time. He was in a great many hard-fought battles, and after the surrender he resumed farming for a short time. He cut a raft, hired some hands, and ran it to New Orleans, when he sold it. He was deputy sheriff for two years in Ashley County. He next engaged in mercantile pursuits under the firm title of Files, Boyd & Co., but during the Clayton trouble their business was almost broken up. He, however, started again, and after running for a short time sold out to William Stell and went to Collins, where he clerked from 1872 to 1877. He then formed a partnership with Maj. J.T.W. Tillar and continued copartnership until January, 1888, when Mr. Boyd bought his partner outand continued the same alone until recently. He has several thousand acres of good land, and has a good store on one farm. He has over 1,000 acres under cultivation, and is one of the extensive farmers of Drew and Ashley Counties. He was first married, in 1864, to Mrs. Elizabeth Lambert, and his second marriage was to Miss Frances E. Ducker, who bore him one child, C. Morrell (deceased). His third marriage was in 1874 to Miss E.E. Godwin, who bore him six children: Frank H., Anna B., Bettie M., Edna E., Virginia E. and Charley M. Mr. Boyd is a MAson and a K. of P.
DR. J.K. BROOKS
Dr. J.K. Brooks is well known to the readers of this volume as one of Drew County's most successful physicians, and owes his nativity to North Carolina, where he was born October 8, 1848, becoming one of two children born to John and Eliza (Malone) Brooks, who were also born in the Old North State. Both parents died when their son, J.K., was quite young, the mother being a member of the Baptist Church at the time of her death. Dr. J.K. Brooks recieved his education in Trinity College, North Carolina, and his knowledge of medicine lore was recieved in the Louisville University of Louisville, Ky. He entered upon the practice of his profession in Drew County, Ark., and during the following year was married to Miss Ella Bailey, who was born in Drew County, Ark., a daughter of Dr. Henry and Eliza Bailey, and to their union the following family of children were born: Normal, Fannie, Willie K., Henry B., Mattie G., Katie, Mittie and Ella M. Dr. Brooks is an able medical practitioner, and has drawn around him a large patronage, and all those who have had occasion to call upon him professionally have every confidence in his ability. He has always been interested in the proper education of the rising generation, giving liberally of his means for school purposes, and is also a generous contributor to churches, his wife being a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, South. The Doctor belongs to the Agricultural Wheel.
DR. W.A. BROWN
Dr. W.A. Brown, physician, Monticello, Ark. Dr. Brown is recognized throughout the State as a friend of and laborer in the cause and advancement of the medical fraternity. He is a native of Tennessee, born in Lincoln County, on November 23, 1843, and is one of eight children, three now living: J.M., Dr. W.A. and Mrs. L.A. Gragg, born to the union of Samuel and Amaranda (Robinson) Brown, natives of North Carolina dn Virgina, respectively. The Brown family originally came from Ireland and the mother's people from Scotland. The maternal grandfather was one of the first settlers of Tennessee. He bored an artesian well, and at a depth of 360 feet struck sulpher water which now comes out two feet above ground. All but ten feet of this depth was bored through limestone rock. It is in Lincoln County. The father of our subject was a successful agriculturist, and he and his wife emigrated to Tennessee at an early day, where they recieved their final summons in Lincoln County, in 1856 and 1858, respectively. Dr. W.A. Brown was early taught the duties of farm life, and remained engaged in agricultural pursuits until seventeen years of age. Just at this time the war broke out and he enlisted in the Eighth Tennessee Infantry, Cofederate States Army, was wounded by a shell in the right knee at the battle of Murfreesboro, and was taken to his home. After convalescing he attended literary at Washington Lee University at Lexington, Va., and graduated from that institution. In 1869 he graduated in medicine at Nashville, Tenn., and then practiced for two years in Lincoln County, of that State. In 1871 he came to Arkansas, located in Lincoln COunty for two years, and then came to Drew County, residing for some time in the northern part of the county. In June, 1889, he located at Monticello, where he has since been engaged in the practice of his profession. He was married in 1875, to Miss Mary C. Hoke, by whom he has four children: Duffie A., Myrtle A., Willie R. and Carroll J. The Doctor is a member of the Masonic fraternity, and the K. of H., and is an elder in the Presybterian Church.
GREEN B. BULLOCK
Green B. BUllock is a successful planter and cotton-ginner of Drew County, Ark., and was born in Meriwether County, Ga., April 8, 1834, being a son of Cyprian and Lucinda (Gray) Bullock, who were also born in Georgia, the former's birth occurring in 1802 and the latter's in 1814, their marriage being consumated in 1833. Their children are as follows: Green B., Martha A., Daniel H., Jesse H., Cyprian, Benjamin F. and Samuel. Two of the family reside in Drew County, Ark, and the rest in Meriwether County, Ga., the parents also residing there, and the father being a farmer by occupation, and a man who takes an interest in all good works. They are both members of the Baptist Church, and although quite aged their minds are still active and show but little the ravages of time. Green B. Bullock was reared and educated in his native State, and was there also married, his wife being a Miss Ellen Courtney, a native of the State and a daughter of Stephen and Elizabeth Courtney. She was born in 1837, and on October 15, 1855, her union with Mr. Bullock was celebrated. In 1856 they emigrated to Arkansas and settled on their present farm in Drew County, which consists of 640 acres of good land, 125 being under cultivation. His cotton-gin is fitted up with all the latest improvements and nets him a paying annual income. He is a member of the Agricultural Wheel, a Mason, belonging to Collins Lodge No. 212, and is a man who is interested in everything for the good of the county, giving liberally of his means in the support of worthy enterprises. He served in the Confederate army during the Rebellion, enlisting in 1862 under Gen. Hindman, and the first hard fight in which he took part was at Prairie Grove, Ark. He held the office of sergeant under Gen. Churchill, and in May, 1865, was discharged at Marshall, Tex., and returned home to resume tilling the soil, to which he has since given his attention. He is a patron of schools, has been a director in his district for twelve years, and has given his children good educational advantages. His family is as follows: Elizabeth (deceased), Lucinda (deceased), Delia (wife of Henry Lephew), green B. (who is married to Emma McNeas), William C., Ophelier, Cyprian, Mattie and Stephen R. (deceased).
WILLIAM BULLOCK
William Bullock is a worthy and fairly successful planter and cotton-ginner of Drew County, Ark, and was born in Georgia, July 12, 1834, being a brother of Stephen Bullock, whose sketch appears above. William was educated in the common schools of his native State, and was married there October 18, 1865, to Miss Millie Courtney, a daughter of Stephen and Elizabeth Courtney, who died April 7, 1869, leaving four children: Stephen, Mary Jane, Melissa, and Catharine. Shortly after his marriage, Mr. Bullock removed to Drew County, Ark., and is now residing on an exceedingly fertile and well-kept tract of land, embracing 540 acres, 200 acres of which are under cultivation and well stocked. He is the owner of a fine steam cotton-gin, which is fitted up with all the latest improvements, and this brings him in a paying annual income. He has held the office of lecturer, and is now treasurer of the Agricultural Wheel. He was again married December 6, 1871, to Miss Mary Baldy, and he and his wife are earnest members of the Christian Church. They are the parents of eight children, whose namees are as follows: Sydney, Thomas, Lelia, Henry, Ola, Jo, Emma, and green C. On June 1, 1862, Mr. Bullock enlisted in the Confederate army under Gen. Hindman, and the first severe engagement in which he participated was at Prairie Grove, Washington County, Ark. After serving the cause he espoused in a very faithful manner, he received his dischage in May, 1865, after which he returned home and resumed tilling the soil, which occupation has received his attention ever since.
STEPHEN BULLOCK
Among the representative planters of the county none are more favorably known or highly respected than Mr. Bullock, whose birth occurred in the State of Georgia, October 3, 1847. His parents, Henry and Cinderella(Bussey) Bullock, were born in South Carolina and Georgia, April 8, 1806, and November 16, 1814, respectively, and their union resulted in the birth of thirteen children, the following of whom are living: William, Cyprian, Lucinda, Stephen, Jasper, and Lissie, all of whom are residents of Drew County, Ark. The father was a successful planter, and at the time of his death, August 31, 1884, left an estate of 240 acres, which he willed to his youngest child. He was a deacon of the Baptist Church for many years, and was a public-spirited and worthy citizen. His wife, who also belonged to the Baptist Church, passed from life May 5, 1882. Stephen Bullock came to Drew County, Ark., with his parents in 1856, and here received his education, being an attendant of the common schools. On starting out in life for himself his worldly possessions consisted of $100 in money, a horse and a cow, but he set energetically to work in farming, and his labors have been attended with excellent results, and he is now the owner of 340 acres of land, of which seventy acres are under cultivation. He is interested in all good works, and socially is a member of the K. of H., and the Agricultural Wheel. He and his wife, whom he married November 30, 1870, and whose maiden name was Lou Skipper, are members of the Christian Church. She was born in Alabama in 1854, and is in every aspect a helpmate to her husband.
C.L. BURKS
C.L. Burks, president of the Monticello Bank, Monticello, Ark. Mr. Burks is one of the prominent and wealthy men of this county, and an extensive real estate holder, his opinion being authority in the real estate market. He was born in North Alabama, in 1824, and is the son of John P. and Mary (Harris) Burks, natives of the Old Dominion. The parents emigrated to Alabama and thence to tennessee, where they both passed the closing scenes of their lives. They reared a large family, numbering fifteen, but only four are now living. C.L. Burks was about seventeen years of age when he emigrated with his parents to Tennessee, and was therefore pricipally educated in Alabama, where he attended the common schools. His father early insructed him in the duties of farm life and he remained with his parents engaged in agricultural pursuits until twenty-one years of age. In 1856 he came to Monticello, Ark., engaged in the mercantile business, and carried this on successfully until 1885. He then closed this out and in May 1887, became president of the Monticello Bank. He is one of the substantial men of the county, and, as before stated, is an extensive real estate holder. He has made a vast amount of wealth, all the result of energy and good business management, and is abundantly worthy of the large measure of success achieved. He was married in 1866 to Miss Nellie Edins, and the fruits of this union have been four living children. Mr. Burks is a member of the Masonic fraternity. He is one of the early merchants of Monticello.
JOSEPH F. BUSSEY
Joseph F. Bussey, proprietor of Bussey House, Monticello, Ark. Mr. Bussey has been a resident of Drew County for nearly half a century, and is a man well known and esteemed throughout the same. He was born in Talbot County, Ga., September 8, 1832, and is a son of James and Elizabeth (Lake) Bussey, also natives of Georgia and of Irish-Welcsh descent. The paternal grandfather, David Bussey, was a native of the Emerald Isle, and at a very early day emigrated to the United States and settled in Lincoln County, Ga. He died in Sumter County of that State. The Lake family were also early residents of Georgia. James Bussey, father of our subject, was a mechanic by trade and followed blacksmithing in Georgia, where he ran a large establishment. He was a soldier in the War of 1812 and also in the Indian War. In 1841 he moved to Alabama, remained there for three years, and in January, 1844, he again started out with his family, stopping from March until November in Tennessee, thence direct to Drew County, Ark. He made the trip through in wagons and arrived in this county December 23, 1844. He entered a farm at Lacey, in Veasey Township, where we find him among the first settlers. He first erected a little log cabin of rough stature, but later a much better structure, and although the neighbors were few and far between, they were none the less friendly, and a good time could always be counted on. Game of all kinds was in abundance, deer was seen in large droves and were often brought down with the crack of his rifle, as were also bear. In 1851 he moved to Ashley County, Ark.,and there remained until 1855, when he moved to Bastrop, La., and died there in 1858. The mother died in 1873. They had twelve children, only two now living: James (resides in Bastrop, LA.), and Joseph F. Four sons served in the late war. Joseph F. was but a boy when he came to the wilderness of Arkansas, and here he grew to maturity, working on the farm and receiving such schooling as was obtainable at that early day. He worked on a farm until 1851, when he entered a store as clerk at Gaines Landing, and there remained three years, after which he went to Ashley County and there carried on business for two years for himself and J.S. Wood--firm, J.S. Wood & Co. He then came to Lacey, was in business there until 1859, and in 1860 moved to Monticello, where, after clerking for a short time, he bought out his employers. He carried on his business until 1862, when he enlisted in Owen's Heavy Artillery and remained out about six months, after which he was discharged on account of disability. In the fall of 1862 he was elected circuit and county clerk and held the office until 1868 (or until reconstruction) with credit to himself and to the satisfaction of the people. He again embarked in mercantile pursuits, and was thus occupied until 1877, when he moved on his farm and cultivated the soil until 1879. He was then elected county assessor, and moved back to Monticello, where he held the office for two years. In 1880 he embarked in the hotel business, which he still carries on. He keeps a first class house, and by his able management has sevured a vastly increasing patronage, and has contributed much to the house's desirability as a home for the traveling public. Mr. Bussey was first married, January 9, 1859, to Miss Elizabeth A. Binns, by whom he had six children, two of whom are now living: Lezetta F. and James B. Mrs. Bussey died in 1872, and Mr. Bussey was again married in 1873 to Mrs. Rebecca Morgan, by whom he had one child (deceased). Mr. Bussey was married, the third time, September 24, 1874, to Mrs. Julia E. Royal. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity, I.O.O.F. and K. of P. He and wife are members of the Baptist Church. He has a host of friends and is a host in himself.
REUBEN CLAYTON
Reuben Clayton, dealer in harness, saddlery, etc., Monticello, Ark. Mr. Clayton was born in Cecil County, Md. January 31, 1819, and is the son of Thomas D. and Rachel (Dawson) Clayton, the father a native of North Carolina, and the mother of Lancaster County, Penn. The Clayton family were originally from Wales, and the grandfather, who was a major in the Revolutionary War, died in Buncombe County, N.C. The old ancestry were noted for their war fame, as some of the family were in all of the wars. The father was a soldier in the War of 1812, and participated in some severe engagements, and the subject of this sketch held the rank of captain in the commissary department, in the Trans-Mississippi during the late war. His parents both died in Maryland. The father was a merchant, a fisherman and a farmer by occupation, and resided in Cherokee Bay. Of the eight children born to their marriage, four are now living. Reuben Clayton was reared on a farm, but never worked on the same, and was engaged in merchandising in Baltimore for some time. In the winter of 1856 he came to Arkansas, located near Batesville, on the White River, and carried on farming until the war broke out, when he enlisted in the service. After the war he came to Monticello, Ark., engaged in his present business, and has since carried it on. He has been justice of the peace for several years, and is the owner of some real estate in town. He was married February 1, 1849, to Miss Elizabeth Bassingame, a native of South Carolina, and the fruit of this union has been one child, Effie, wife of R.F. Hyatt. Mr. Clayton was previously married in Delaware, and became the father of one child, Philo G.
MOSES COLLINS
Moses Collins, a pioneer settler of Drew County, Ark., and a wealthy planter of the same, was born in Richmond County, Ga., August 12, 1815, being a son of Moses and Elizabeth (Smith) Collins, who was born in South Carolina and Georgia, in 1783 and 1784, respectively. The following children were born to their union: Moses (the subject of this sketch), James (who is a bachelor, and resides in Mississippi), and Harriet (who is married to Mumford Wilson, and resides in Mississippi), living, and Eliza Mary, Benjamin, Elijah W., Archibald O., Irvin R., and an infant, deceased. The father of these children was a wealthy agriculturalist, and at the time of his death, March 14, 1857, was the owner of 10,000 acres of land. He was an active politician, and besides holding a number of local offices he represented his county in the State Legislature. He and wife, who died in 1866, were members of the Baptist Church. Their son, Moses, was educated in Tuscaloosa, Ala., in a private school, and on June 30, 1846, he was united in marriage to Miss Mary Payne, who was born in that State June 20, 1828, a daughter of Isaac and Elizabeth Payne, and to them a family of twelve children has been born: James P., (deceased), Rufus, William (deceased), Elizabeth (who was united in marriage to E.J. Jagger), John, Eliza, Moses (who married Mattie Johnson), Mary (deceased), Robert L.(who married Mary L. Johnson),Alva, Albert S.J., and an infant (deceased). Mr. Collins is a well-known tiller of the soil in Drew County, and is the owner of about 900 acres of good land, of which 125 acres are under cultivation, well-impproved and stocked. The mother of the above-named children died March 5, 1878, mourned by not only her immediate and sorrowing household, but by all who knew her.
JAMES R. COTHAM
James R. Cotham, editor and proprietor of the Monticellonian, Monticello, Ark. Generally age and experience are essential to success and promotion, but in the example before us we have a young man who has risen, without any especial fortuitous circumstances, to the head of one of the representative papers in that part of Arkansas. He owes his nativity to Drew County, Arkanas, where his birth occurred on February 5, 1850, and was one of a small family of children born to David B. and Eustasia (House) Cotham. The parents were married in Drew County, Ark., where they located in 1847, and were among the first settlers of the same. The father tilled the soil until the breaking out of the late war, and then enlisted and was captured on the Saline River. He was taken to Rock Island and there died. The mother had died in 1859. James R. Cotham was reared in the country until sixteen years of age, and then learned the printer's trade, being enabled ere long to work at the case. In 1873 he purchased a half interest in his present paper, and in 1884 bought out the whole concern, which is the only paper published in Drew County. In his youth he began the study of law, was admitted to the bar in 1879, and has since been in practice in partnership with Z.T. Wood, one of Drew COunty's most eniment lawyers. Mr. Cotham was married, October 14, 1874, to Miss Alice Powell, by whom he has six children: Norwood, James R., Jr., Edward F., Coke, Mattie and Blanche. He is a member of the K. of H. and is an enterprising citizen of the county.
JAMES F. DANHAM
James F. Danham is one of the leading planters of Drew County, Ark., and was born in Alabama on October 19, 1833, a son of John and Elizabeth (Odom) Danham, the former born in Kentucky, in 1805, and the latter in Tennessee, in 1814. To their union the following family of children were born: William C., John H., Francis, George W., Nannie L., Joab W., Susan C., Thomas J. and Mattie A. (living), and Benjamin F., Luzana and MAry (deceased). At the time of the father's death which occurred in Grant County, Ark., June 19, 1882, whither he had moved in December 1881, he was the owner of 159 acres of land on which he had located in December 1867. He was member of the Baptist Church, as is his widow, who still resides in Grant County, making her home with a son. James F. Danham was educated in La Fayette County, Miss., and at the age of twenty years began the battle of life for himself, and on July 24, 1855, was united in marriage to Miss Susan A. Green, who was born in Mississippi, December 5, 1837, a daughter of Edward and Elizabeth Green, and their marriage has been blessed in the birth of the following family: Rufus O., Mourning E., (who married James Grizzel), Amanda (deceased), Susan (wife of Sip Roper), Charley (who married Hattie Colwell), John K., Marcus L., Alexander A. (deceased), and Emmet A. Mr. Danham has always followed the life of a farmer, and of his 258 acre farm ninety acres are under cultivation and the farm is well stocked. His wife is a member of the Baptist Church. In 1862 he enlisted under Gen. Ruggles in Owen's Battery of Monticello, after which he was attached to a brigade under Gen Lee. He was captured at Lauderdale Station, Miss., in 1864, and was taken to Camp Chase, thence to Johnson's Island, and there remained until the close of the war, after which he returned to his home and resumed his farming operations.
**Note: According to the great great-grand daughter of James, his last name was Donham, not Danham****
JAMES A. DANIEL
James A. Daniel, who has long been connected with the agricultural affairs of Drew County, Ark., was born November 19, 1837, being a son of Dudley D. and Emeline (Curtis) Daniel, who were born in North Carolina, June 1, 1804, and August 6, 1816, repsectively, their marriage taking place October 13, 1831. In 1851, they removed from North Carolina to Arkansas, and became wealthy citizens of Drew County, the father being worth, at the time of his death, in 1870, about $50,000. He was a worthy citizen in every respect, and was deeply interested in the progress and development of Drew County, contributing liberally of his means in its support. He was a Whig in politics, and socially a R.A.M., belonging to Lacy Lodge No 46. He is still survived by his widow, who is now seventy-three years of age, and resides in Monticello with her daughter, Mrs. E, A. Pruit. Both were members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and became the parents of the following children: Margaret (wife of W.D. Killiam), James A., Eliza (wife of George Spencer), Amanda (wife of Benjamin Pruit), and Mary E. (wife of Dr. Thomas Pruit). James A. Daniel was educated in the schools of Monticello, but in 1861, full of enthusiasm for the land of chivalry, he enlisted in Company I, First Arkansas Regiment, Monticello Guards, but was afterward sent on duty to Virginia, where he remained ten months. He was afterward transferred to the Army of the Tennessee, under Albert Sidney Johnston, and the first important engagement in which he participated was Shiloh, where he received quite a severe wound. After remaining at home on furlough for about one year, he joined the First Arkansas Calvary, after which he was in the battles of Pine Bluff, Poison Springs and Mark's Mill, being wounded in the right leg in the last named engagement. After remaining at home for eight weeks he rejoined his command, and was with Price on his raid through Missouri, participating in nearly all the engagements in which this famous general took part. He was captured at Little Osage, and after being kept over night in the prison at Fort Scott, he was taken to Warrensburg, from thence to St. Louis, and thence to Johnson's Island, in Lake Erie. He was released at this place and returned home, where he was married, in 1867, to Miss Lucy Nunn, a native of Louisiana, and a daughter of S.B. Nunn, They had one child, Dudle y D., who died when ten months old. The mother of this child having died, on September 15, 1869, Mr. Daniel wedded his present wife, a daughter of Henry and Eliza Walthall, his wife, Ida, being a native of Virginia. A family of five children has been born to them, but three died in infancy, and one on November 1, 1883, and another on the fifth of the same month, aged eighteen and fourteen, respectively. By industry and good management, Mr. Daniel has become the owner of 465 acres of fertile farming land, and has 125 acres under the plow. He has held the office of justice of the peace, is a Mason, and he and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, South.
WILLIAM C. DICKSON
William C. Dickson, farmer, Nelson, Ark. There are a number of men prominently identified with the growth and prosperity of the county, but none among them is more deserving of praise for the interest they take in all laudable enterprises for the good of the same than the above-mentioned gentleman. He was born in Tiption County, Tenn., on August 30, 1851, and is the son of Samuel D. and Sarah (McQuiston) Dickson, natives of Tennessee and South Carolina, respectively. Samuel D. Dickson was born in 1813, and of Scotch-Irish descent. He came to this county in 1853, engaged in the saw-mill business, and during the late war was in the home guards. He was killed at his home in April 1865, by Federal soldiers. (See sketch of Molton Dickson for further particulars of parents). William C. Dickson was but two years of age when he came to this county, and he received his education in the common schools of the same. He began teaching at the age of twenty years, and then tilled the soil until 1882, when he engaged in the carpenter work, and has since continued the same in connection with farming and blacksmithing, which he commenced in 1888. He bought his present farm of 120 acres in 1876, and now has about fifty acres under cultivation, his principal crop being cotton. He was married on January 27, 1876, to Miss HAttie M. Davis, a native of Fayette County, Miss., born September 1, 1856, and the daughter of Robert G. and Margaret (Nelson) Davis, natives of SOuth Carolina and North Carolina, respectively. To Mr. and Mrs. Dickson were born five children-three now living: Christopher S. (deceased), Maggie Bell, Mabel, Mary G. (deceased) and Wilbur Davis. Mr. and Mrs. Dickson are members of the Associated Reformed Presbyterian Church, and Mr. Dickson is a member of the Wheel. In politics he affiliates with the Democratic party.
MOLTON M. DICKSON
Molton M. Dickson, merchant, Nelson, Ark. This most successful and enterprising business man owes his nativity to Drew County, Ark., his birth occurring in Nelson on July 3, 1860, and is the son of Samuel D. and Sarah I (McQuiston) Dickson, natives of Tennessee. Samuel Dickson was born in Dickson County, Tenn., and is the son of Molton Dickson. He was an overseer on a large plantation near Baton Rouge, LA. After his marriage to Miss McQuiston he engaged in the saw-mill business in Tipton County, Tenn., in company with his brother, Dr. Christopher Dickson, in 1851-52. In 1853 he engaged in the saw-mil business in Drew County Ark., and in 1861 he enlisted in a company of Home Guards, and served until the close of the war. He was killed at his home in April, 1865, by Federals. He was a member of the Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church, as is also his widow, who makes her home with her son, Molton M. They were the parents of six children, four now living: William C., (a farmer of Drew County), Sarah E., (deceased), Andrew (deceased), Molton M., Mattie B., (Now Mrs. Thompson, of Pine Bluff), and Samuel D. (a farmer of this county). Molton M. Dickson received his education in the public schools of this county, and when twenty years of age commenced for himself by clerking in a general merchandise store at Cavaness Landing, Ark. He remained there for seven months, and then attended school at Somerville, Calhoun County, Ark. After this he was engaged as commissary on the railroad, about eighteen months, and then farmed in this county for a year. He was then engaged in the book business for a year, and in 1886 went to Tipton County, Tenn., where he clerked in a store for two years. After his return to this county he clerked in Monticello for six months, and in November 1888, Mr. Dickson, in company with Dr. R.R. Bond and N.A. Murry, opened up a store of general merchandise at this place. They have since taken C.G. Davis into partnership, and now have the largest trade in the township. They carry a stock valued at $1500, and their annual sales equal $10,000. On October 24, 1889, Mr. Dickson was united in marriage to Miss Sallie E. Adair, a native of Texas, born in Smith COunty, near Tyler, October 20, 1867, and the daughter of Jefferson H. and Ellen (Pace) Adair; they are natives of Alabama. Mr. Dickson owns 200 acres of fine farming land, with about thirty acres under cultivation, and with his business in Nelson is one of the substantial and highly honored men of the county. He is strictly a Democrat in his political views, and his first presidential vote was cast for Grover Cleveland in 1884. His principals are firm and true. He and his wife are members of the Associate Reform Presbyterian Church.
J.F. DONALDSON
J.F. Donaldson is a leading merchant and planter of Collins, Drew County, Ark., but was born in the State of Mississippi October 24, 1845, and is a son of Nathan and Amelia (Aglin) Donaldson, who were bborn in Georgia and South Carolina, respectively, their marriage taking place in the month of January, 1834. The father was a farmer and mechanic by occupation, and after residing in the State of Mississippi until 1852, he removed to the State of Arkansas, and is now residing in Drew COunty, at the age of seventy-five years. He served in the Mexican War, also in the Rebellion for a short time, and iin his political views is a Democrat, serving on this ticket as justice of the peace of his township for several years. He is a R. A. M. and he and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Their children are named as follows: William M., Mary E., Levi W., David P., James F., Lucinda J., Anthony I., Nathan A., Amelia C., Andrew J., and John (who died in infancy). J.F. Johnson has resided the greater portion of his life in Drew County, Ark., and has followed the life of an agriculturalist, being now the owner of 600 acres of land, of which 100 acres are under cultivation, besides his general mercantile establishment, which is worth about $10,000. He opened his establishment in 1889, and by his accomodating spirit and enterprise has already built up a paying trade. On January 19, 1871, he was married to Miss Pollie A. Stewart, who was born in Tennessee, a daughter of Henry and Mary Stewart. They have had three children: Nora (who died in infancy), Ida M., and John A. Mr. Donaldson is a Mason, a K. of H. and a K. of P. and has held high offices in all these orders. He has been justice of the peace in his township for eight years, is a public spirited citizen, and he and wife are members of the Baptist Church.
JAMES T. DUNCAN
James T. Duncan is a native Kentuckian, born in Logan County, October 5, 1852, his father, James G. Duncan, being also born and reared there, the former event taking place September 6, 1822. The father was a farmer and tanner by occupation, and in 1852 removed to the State of Arkansas, and settled near Hamburg, in Ashley County, where he was engaged in farming for about seven years. He then opened up a farm on Bayou Bartholomew, in Drew County, which he continued to till until his death, in 1872, he was remarkably successful in his business transactions, and upon his demise left left his family well provided for. He was Master Mason, and was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, South, for many years, having united with the church early in life. His wife, whose maiden name was Sarah F. Tucker, was born in the Old Dominion, in 1834, but was reared and educated in Kentucky, her parents, Robert and Martha Tucker, having removed to that State in 1849. She was married in Ashley County, in 1851, but is now residing on the old homestead in Drew County. Her union with Mr. Duncan resulted in the birth of four sons and four daughters, James T. and his sister, Susan M. (wife of Thomas R. Henry, a farmer, of Drew Coounty), being the only ones now living. James T. Duncan was reared in Drew County, receiving a common school education there also, and at the age of twenty-one years began life for himself as a farmer, and has continued this occupation until the present time. His estate comprises 500 acres of fine land on Bayou Bartholomew, of which ninety acres are under cultivation, devoted to rasing crops of cotton and corn. Besides this he wons a half interest in a steam grist mill and cotton gin, and is engaged in selling merchandise near his farm, at Bombay, the stock of goods being valued at $2,500 and the firm is known as Henry&Duncan. Mr. Duncan has always been a law abiding citizen, and is affable and agreeable in his intercourse with his fellow men. He belongs to the K. of H., and although a Democrat, takes little interest in politics. September 3, 1873, his marriage to Miss Willela Duncan took place iin Drew County. To the subject of this sketch and his wife a family of seven children has been born: Thomas Edward, Teresa May, and Sarah A. being the only ones living. The deceased are: William T., Ida, Susan E. and Daniel G. Mr. and Mrs. Duncan are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, South, and he is secretary of his church and is superintendent of the Sunday School.
J.I. DUNLAP
J.I. Dunlap, farmer and stock-raiser, Monticello, Ark. This well-known, representative citizen of Drew County was born in Henry County, Tenn., on February 3, 1830, and is the son of John and Elizabeth (Mathis) Dunlap, and the grandson of Jonathan and Ann (Seers) Dunlap. The grandfather was a native of South Carolina, and a farmer by occupation. He died in 1850, and his wife in 1838. The parents of our subject were born in Logan County, Ky., in 1802, and Montgomery County, Tenn., respectively. The father moved to Tennessee when a young man, followed farming, and soon became the owner of 500 acres of land. He died on November 22, 1865, in full communion with the Methodist Episcopal Church. He was a member of the MAsonic fraternity. The mother was also a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Her parents were Isom and Priscilla Mathis. She died on June 24, 1885. Of the fourteen children born to their union eight are now living: Mary Ann (now Mrs. Week, of Maryville, Ark.), W.H. (farmer of Boone County), Mahala H.J.J., Martha J. (now Mrs. Owen, of Jefferson County), Nancy E. (now Mrs. Gwynne, of Saline Township), A. Angeline (now Mrs. Carter, of Saline Township) and Melissa (now Mrs. Mew, of this township). The parents of these children moved with their family to Arkansas in 1839, and located in Carroll County. J.I. Dunlap left the parental roof in 1852, emigrated to this county, where his father followed him two years later. He first worked as a farm hand, but in 1854 he and his father and brother bought the farm, on a part of which our subject is now residing, 900 acres in all, and J.I. now owns 240 of this, with sixty-five acres under cultivation, His principal crop is cotton, but he also raises considerable corn, etc. In August, 1861, he enlisted in the Confederate army, Second Arkansas Calvary, and was made second lieutenant of the same. After the reorganization in 1862 he joined the First Arkansas Calvary, and held the rank of second lieutenant of COmpany B, which he helped raise, and held this position until the close of the war. He was in Price's raid through Missouri, and took part in the battles of Pilot Knob, Pine Bluff, Mark's Mill, Poison Springs, Cove Creek, Fayetteville and others. He returned home in June, 1865, and was married on July 28, 1867, to Miss Ruth J. Crook, a daughter of Henry and Malinda (Morgan) Crook, natives of South Carolina and Tennessee, respectively. Mr. Crook was born on October 25, 1825, and is still living, a resident of Ashley COunty, where he is engaged in tilling the soil. Mrs. Crook died in November, 1874. To Mr. and Mrs. Dunlap were born eleven children, nine of whom are still living: Jonathan A. (born December 9, 1874),Benjamin Z. (born February 15, 1874), Mary Ruth (born November 14, 1875),Claudia May (born August 14, 1877), Emmett J. (born December 21, 1879), Henry Crook (born October 13, 1881), Jesse Alonzo (born November 11, 1883), Ernest Leslie (born September 26, 1885), and Edward Lee (born October 29, 1887). Mrs. Dunlap was born on January 20, 1848, in Drew County, Ark., and is a consistent and worthy member of the Methodist Church. Mr. Dunlap is a member of the Masonic fraternity, Chapter, and is one of the leading Democrats of this county.
WILLIAM J. ECHOLS
William J. Echols, farmer and stock-raiser, Monticello, Ark. The agricultural interests of Marion Township are ably represented by the subject of this sketch, a man whose entire life has been passed in the calling which now receives his attention. He was born in Carroll County, Miss., in 1845, and is the son of Thomas and Rebecca (Mallet) Echols, natives of Virginia. The parents moved to Drew COunty, Ark., about 1848, and died here about two years later within a few weeks of each other. The father was a successful agriculturalist. They were the parents of five children, three now living: James D. (was killed by a cannon ball while in the Confederate army), George F.(deceased), Alice (now Mrs. Heard, of Chicot County, Ark.), Henry (a farmer of Texas), and William J. After the death of the father and mother the children were taken and reared by neighbors. William J. was taken by Jesse Newton, of Spring Hill Township, Drew COunty, and remained with him until the opening of the late war, when in 1861 he enlisted in the Ninth Arkansas Infantry, and served about twelve months. He then returned home, and remained there for about three months, joined Drew's battery (light artillery), and was afterward transferred to the heavy artillery at Old Spanish Fort, on Mobile Bay, where he was located until compelled to evacuate by the Federals shortly before the close of the war. The principal battles in which he took part were: Shiloh, Mobile, seige of fifteen days at Yazoo City, and also a number of small engagements. At Old Spanish Fort he was struck on the bridge of the nose by a ball which passed in front of both eyes. He arrived home in April 1865, and the death of Mr. Newton occurred about six months afterward. Mr. Echols then worked hard on the farm for about two years, and was then married to Miss Mary Owens, a native of Tennessee, and the daughter of E.B. and Adelia (Payne) Owens. Mrs. Echols died in 1872 leaving two children, one now living, George Ezekial, who resides with his father. Mr. Echol's second marriage occurred in 1874 to Miss Hattie Hankins, a native of Drew County, and the daughter of Robert Hankins (See sketch). The fruits of this union have been seven children, all living: Mabel, Sarah Alice, Don Henry, James Rufus, Thomas Wilson, Ruth and Hattie Bell. In 1867, after his first marriage, Mr. Echols conducted his father-in-law's farm for two years, and then settled a fgarm for himself about five miles north of Monticello. In 1875 he sold his place and bought a farm within two miles of his first one, and in 1880 he bought his present property, which consists of 300 acres of land with about fifty acres under cultivation. His principal crop is cotton, but he also raises grain, sugar-cane, sweet potatoes, etc. He is also engaged in raising stock. His residence is a large two-story building, which was at one time used as a public inn and stage stand before the war, and is one of the oldest landmarks of the county. Mr. Echols is a member of the K. of H., and he and wife are members of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. In politics he is a Democrat, and is highly respected and esteemed throughout the township.
JACKSON Y. ERWIN
Jackson Y. Erwin, farmer, Monticello, Ark. There are a number of men prominently identified with the growth and prosperity of the county, but none among them are more deserving of mention than Jackson Y. Erwin, He owes his nativity to Marchall COunty, Miss., where his birth occurred on February, 22, 1844, and is the son of John and Priscilla Erwin, early settlers of Mississippi, where the father died. The mother died in Arkansas in 1886. Their family consisted of nine children, six of whom are living: Mrs. Capt. Isom, Jackson Ann, Zelna, in the Lone Star State; Hockett and John. The father was a tiller of the soil and a man universally respected. Jackson Y. Erwin was reared in Mississippi until fourteen years of age, but the principal part of his education was received in Arkansas, whiter he had moved in 1858. He first located in Spring Hill Township, where he resided until 1875, and then removed to his present property, which consists of 1,400 acres of land with several hundred acres under cultivation. When he first took the place there were but few improvements but he has since erected a good residence, substantial outbuildings, etc., and is quite interested in stock-raising. His marriage occurred in 1871 to Miss Judith Jeter, by whom he has three children: Willie F., Clyde and Bertie. Mr. Erwin is one of the prominent men of the county and a first-class farmer, as a glance over his broad acres will show.
MARMADUKE E. FERGUSON
Marmaduke E. Ferguson is one of the successful small farmers of Drew COunty, Ark., and although his farm comprises only 120 acres, it is exeedeingly fertile and well tilled, and consequently yields a larger annual income than many larger farms. He was born in South Carolina, November 5, 1839, but was reared in Drew County, Ark., his father Jonathan Ferguson, having come here in 1846. His early educational advantages were good, and he was for some time an attendant of the schools of Monticello, but at the age of eighteen years he gave up school life and began fighting his own way in the world as a mechanic, which occupation he continued to follow until the bursting of the war cloud, which had so long been hovering over the country. He then entered the Confederate service, in May, 1861, became a member of Company C., Third Arkansas Infantry, Longstreet's corps and Lee's army and served throughout the entire war, being a participant in the battle of Seven Pines; all the engagements around Richmond, Petersburg, Fredericksburg, Wilderness, Antietam, Fortress Monroe, Harper's Ferry, Greenbriar, Sharpsburg, Mount Jackson, and numerous small engagements and skirmishes. He was wounded at Sharpsburg, Md., by the explosion of a shell, the wound being in the left leg above the knee and in the right hand, which resulted in permanent disability, although he continued to remain in the service. He was also slightly wounded in the shoulder at Strausburg, and was there captured in the early part of 1865 and sent to Camp Chase, where he was kept for about four and a half months. April 18, 1865, he took the oath of allegiance and went to Wheeling, Va., where he remained until the November following, engaged in managing a vineyard and working as a mechanic in the navy yard. He left this place for St. Louis, but only remained in the latter city engaged in business for a short time, and in November 1865, reached Drew County, Ark. After farming for three years he began milling and cotton-ginning, but as above stated is now giving his attention to agricultural pursuits, and of his farm has seventy acres under cultivation. He was married in Drew County, June 6, 1866, to Mrs. Mary E. Owen, a native of Shelby COunty, Tenn., born in 1839, a daughter of James H. and Salina Owen, who are now deceased. Mrs. Ferguson passed from life January 7, 1883, having borne a family of three sons and three daughters: Hyder, James L., Edward, Minnie, Theresa and Bettie R. Mr. Ferguson's second union took place October 23, 1884, to Mrs. Josephine Glosup, widow of B. Glosup, who died in 1879, and a daughter of Rev. A. Tomlin, a minister of the Baptist Church. He and wife, Nannie Tomlin, are now living in Drew County. Mr. Ferguson's second marriage has resulted in the birth of two children: Sallie, who died in 1886, and Cleveland. Mr. Ferguson is a Democrat in his views, and has for a number of years been a member of the Christian Church. Mrs. Ferguson had six children by her first husband, the following of whom are living: Emma (wife of Joseph L. Doss), Franklin, Jesse R., Irene, Henry, and a son and daughter deceased.
Robert E. Fleming
Robert Fleming has been engaged in farming all his life, learning the details of that work of his father, who was also a tiller of the soil. He was born in Alabama on April 9, 1848, but his parents, Mark M. and Ellen (Janes) Fleming, were born in Georgia, the former's birth occurring in 1806, and the latter's in 1809. Their marriage was celebrated in 1824, and in due course of time they became parents of seven sons and four daughters, only three of whom are now living: Virginia (wife of S.D. Brown), Mark M. (who married Virginia Moncrief), and Robert E. The Father was a farmer by occupation, and in 1848 emigrated to Arkansas, and settled on a farm in Ashley County , where he made a comfortable home for his family. His many worthy qualities soon became known, and he was elected to the office of county and probate judge for four years; has held the office of justice of the peace also. While a resident of Talbot County, Ga., he was sheriff for eight years. He was a Royal Arch Mason, and at the time of his death, June 19, 1887, he was an earnest member of the Baptist Church, his wife, who died in March 1888, being also a member. Robert E. Fleming was reared and educated in Drew County, and here he was married on July 19, 1870, to Miss Clara Morgan, a daughter of Maj. Lemuel C. and Ellen Morgan. Mrs Fleming died in January 1880, leaving four children: Mary G., Mabel V., Roscoe (deceased) and Lorena, and Mr Fleming's second union was to Miss Cora P Wells, by whom he has five children: Oswell (deceased), Homer, Mamie C., Ella M., and Robert (deceased). After the death of this wife in April 1888, Mr Fleming espoused Mrs E A Newton, their union taking place on November 21, 1889. He also has land to the amount of 1,000 acres, and has 150 under the plow. He has been a member of the K of H two years, and is an enterprising and worthy citizen. His wife is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
Ithamer Gaddy
Ithamer Gaddy, farmer and stock-raiser, Nelson, Ark.
A lifetime of hard, earnest endeavor in pursuing the occupation to which he now gives his attention, coupled with strict integrity, honesty of purpose and liberality, in directions, have had a result to place Mr Gaddy among the truly respected and honored citizens of the county. He was born in Marion District, S.C., July 19, 1846, and is the son of Silas and Susan (Callwell) Gaddy, the father a native of SOuth Carolina, and the mother of North Carolina, and the grandson of Ithamer and Charity (Pitman) Gaddy. Silas Gaddy was born in 1800, and was one of the sturdy sons of toil in South Carolina. He moved with his family to Arkansas in 1851, located in Drew County, and continued agricultural pursuits until his death , which occurred in 1857. He was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Ithamer Gaddy was reared principally in Drew County, Ark., and in June 1864, he enlisted in the Second Arkansas Calvary, and served faithfully and well until the close of hostilities. In 1866 he commenced farming for himself on his father's old plantation, consisting of 120 acres, and this he continued for some time. He now rents this land and is engaged in teaming. He has never married and his mother lives with him and keeps house for him. He was one of ten children, five now living, born to his parents. They are named as follows: John A. (farmer of Saline Township), Charity (at home), Adam (at home), Ithamer (at home), Susan (also at home).
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