Montgomery County Arkansas Biographies and Biographical Sketches

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Martin Stephen Bates Biography

Martin Stephen Bates is a man who nature seems to have designed to be a planter, seems to have met with a more than average degree of success in pursuing that calling, and owning to his desire to keep out of the beaten path and to his adoption of new and improved methods he is now the owner of a good plantation. He was born in Cherokee County, Ga., March 2, 1843, a son of Elder J.R. and Mary Ann (Dobbs) Bates, the former a native of South Carolina and the latter of Georgia. When a boy Mr. Bates went to Georgia with his parents, there grew to manhood, married and lived until 1870, when he came to Scott County, Ark., having traveled over the county in 1848 and reported it was a good one. At the above-mentioned date he and sixty other persons came here, and now 1000 persons are the offspring of the members of this colony. Mr. Bates lived in Scott County until 1877, then he came to Mt. Ida, and here breathed his last at the age of seventy-six years. He had studied medicine when a young man, and although he practiced his profession for about forty years before coming to this State, he afterwards gave his attention to farming. In 1868 he joined the Primitive Baptist Church, was ordained an elder soon after, and preached the gospel until his death. He was a Mason for for many years, was a Democrat politically, and while in Georgia, and also in Scott County, Ark. held the office of justice of the peace. He helped remove the Indians to their reservation west of the Mississippi River, being an officer. The Bates family are of Scotch and English descent, the grandfather, Stephen Bates, being a Virginia planter and a son of William Bates, one of the wealthiest men of the Dominion. The mother of the subject of this sketch is still living and resides on the old homestead in Arkansas, being now seventy years of age. She has been a member of the Missionary Baptist Church for twenty-five years, and has been a kind, considerate Christian lady. Of a family of fourteen children she bore her husband, Martin Stephen is their fifth son. In his youth he was given the advantages of the schools of Cherokee County, Ga., but put aside his books in 1861 to join the Confederate Army, coming a member of Company G, Twenty-third Georgia Infantry, with which he served four years, taking part in many battles: Siege of Yorktown, Seven Pines, Williamsburg, besides many others, but escaped without receiving a wound or being taken prisoner. At the close of the war he commenced to farm for himself, but in 1870 left his native State, and for two years was a resident of Scott County, Ark., at the end of which time he came to Montgomery County, settling on the old Willard place on Caddo road, which he has improved with excellent buildings, fences, orchard, etc. on coming here he was without means, but his efforts have been attended with success, and he now owns a good farm, on which he raises excellent crops. In 1874 he joined the Primitive Baptist Church, was ordained one of its elders eight years since, and has since been engaged in preaching the Gospel. He was married, in 1866, to Miss Elizabeth Brooks, and eight sons and four daughters have been born to their union, seven sons and one daughter now living. Mrs. Bates is also a member of the Primitive Baptist Church, and Mr. Bates is a stanch Democrat. [The Goodspeed Biographical & Historical Memoirs of Western Arkansas, Published by Southern Publishing Company 1891.]

William J. Bowers Biography

William J. Bowers. In the fertile agriculture region of Montgomery County, Ark., Mr. Bowers has given his attention to tilling the soil, and as he has always been industrious, economical and enterprising, he has accumulated a fair share of this world's goods and is now in independent circumstances. He was born in Jackson County, Ala., in 1847, to Adam and Susanna (Darnell) Bowers, the former a Virginian, born in 1802, and the latter in Georgia, in 1804. In 1849 they removed to Tennessee, and about 1870 to Woodruff County, Ark., where Mrs. Bowers died in 1876 or 1877, Mr. Bowers afterwards removing to Texas, where he was called from earth about 1878, he, as well as his wife, being an earnest member of the Missionary Baptist Church. He was one of the honest "sons of the soil," and as a law-abiding and public-spirited citizen and became well known in the different localities he resided. William J. Bowers is the youngest of the seven children born to these parents, and he was put to work on the farm at an early day and kept busily employed, his school days were limited indeed. After he had obtained his majority he began and independent career, and as he had acquired a thorough knowledge of farming on his father's farm he has given that calling his undivided attention up to the present time, and is now the owner of an excellent tract of land of 200 acres four miles south of Mount Ida, all of which he properly acquired by his own industry and good management. He was married in the State of Tennessee in August, 1876, to Miss L.C. Thompson, who died in Van Buren County, Ark., in 1881, leaving Mr. Bowers with a family of four children to care for. His second marriage took place in Texas in 1886 to Miss Fannie D. Goforth, and their union has resulted in the birth of two interesting little children. From 1875 to 1880 Mr. Bowers was a resident of the Lone Star State, but after one year's residence in Van Buren County, Ark., he again removed to Texas, which State was his home up to 1886. The following two years he spent in Pike County, Ark., but since that time has resided on his present farm, which is one of the neatest and best kept in this section of the county. he is a member of the Methodist Church of which his wife is a member. [The Goodspeed Biographical & Historical Memoirs of Western Arkansas, Published by Southern Publishing Company 1891.]

Jefferson Collier Biography

Jefferson Collier is one who has been long identified with the farming interests of this section, but he has also used his interests in furthering all worthy enterprises, and as the result as the confidence, respect and esteem of his fellow-men. He was born on Collier's Creek, in this county, on June 15, 1820, to Martin and Mary Belle (Anderson) Collier, the former born in Tennessee and the latter in Kentucky, in which State their marriage nuptials were celebrated. About 1812 they came to what is now Montgomery County, and settled on Caddo Creek, about twenty miles from any white settler, but did not remain here long, soon moving to what is now known as Collier's Creek, where they spent the rest of their lives, the father dying about 1822 and the mother on August 30, 1861, a member of the Baptist Church for many years their nearest trading point was Little Rock, and their nearest blacksmith's shop twenty-five miles distant. As it was thirty miles to a flouring-mill, they often used a mortar instead of making that long (and as there were no roads at that time), tedious journey. There were no schools, so the early education of their children was sadly neglected, and as the husband and father died at an early day, his widow was left with ten children to care for in this vast wilderness, three or four miles from any neighbor. She nobly discharged every duty, and her children now "rise up and called her blessed." Jefferson Collier is the youngest of the family, and as he received no advantages in his youth, he often felt the need of it, and after his marriage, began applying himself to his books and thus obtained a fair education. He was married in August, 1842, to Miss Susanna, daughter of Thomas and Lydia Markham, natives of Illinois, who came to what is now Montgomery County, settling above Caddo Gap and there passing from life prior to the war. Mrs. Collier was born in Randolph County, Ark., in 1825, and has borne her husband fifteen children, four sons and seven daughters now living. When first married he settled on his present farm, which was then an old abandoned place, and this farm of 270 acres has been his home for nearly fifty years. He is the oldest native resident of the county, and throughout his long and useful career here, has kept his name unspotted from the world. Just after the war he was elected to the State Senate, but did not qualify. He served all through the Confederate Army, in a company of Cavalry, with Capt. William Carroll, and was one of the brave and intrepid "boys in gray." He has been a member of the A.F. & A.M. since 1854, being now a member of New Hope Lodge No. 42. He organized Cedar Glades Lodge, and Mount Ida Lodge, and for some time served as their worshipful master. He and his worthy wife have been citizens who command the respect of all who know them, and for many years have been members of the Missionary Baptist Church. They have lived a happy wedded life of nearly half a century and are yet in the enjoyment of good health. They have reared a large family to honorable manhood and womanhood, and the following are those who are living at the present time: Lydia E. (wife of Thomas White), Charles W. (of Texas), Harrison R. (the presenter surveyor of Montgomery County, and one of its best educators), Alfred M., Margaret (wife William Robinson), Arzelia G. (wife of Franklin L. Cash) and Cynthia L. (wife of John J. Peart of Illinois). John W. Collier died at Camden while serving in the Confederate Army. Charles also served the Confederate cause. Mr. Collier was reared in the wilds of this county, and is probably more familiar with the early history of this county than any other one of its citizen. As an illustration of the expedients to which the early settlers were sometimes obliged to resort, Mr. Collier tells of how his mother at one time "knit a pair of socks, from the wool which she picked from the head of a buffalo, and sold then to a merchant for a pair of cotton cards. Cards at that time sold for $10 a pair. The merchant's name was William Barkman. My father was the first settler on Collier's Creek. He shot a buffalo from his camp-pole, and I now live within a mile of the same place." [The Goodspeed Biographical & Historical Memoirs of Western Arkansas, Published by Southern Publishing Company 1891.]

Henry S. Goodnew Biography

Henry S. Goodner, general merchant and farmer, residing near Mount Ida, Ark., is justly conceded a place among the enterprising, influential men of worth in his community. He was born in Wayne County, Tenn., in 1827, to John C. and Susanna (Smith) Goodner, who were born in Tennessee in 1801 and 1804, respectively, and until the subject of this sketch was twelve or thirteen years of age they resided in different parts of West Tennessee, moving then to Tippah County, Miss., where they made there home until 1851. They then became residents of Montgomery County, Ark., settling near where Oden now is, at which place they spent the rest of their lives, Mr. Goodner dying in 1872 and his wife in 1863, the former being a member of the Primitive Baptist Church, and a farmer by occupation. His father, Henry Goodner, was born in Germany, and when a young man came to the United States, and was probably married in Maryland, his death occurring in Alabama, a tiller of the soil, having been a soldier in the War of 1812. The maternal grandfather, John Smith, was in all probability born in the Old North State, and died in Wayne County, Tenn., a worthy agriculturist. The immediate subject of this sketch is the second in a family of five sons and one daughter, and his youth was spent in laboring on his father's home place. He was given the advantages of the common schools, near his home, and in the State of Mississippi was married in 1848 to Miss Miriam [M. Laurena], daughter of George and Nancy Willhite, who died in Tippah County, Miss., Mr. Willhite also being a farmer. Mrs. Goodner was born in Alabama, and has become the mother of fourteen children, five sons and seven daughters living. In 1851, Mr. Goodner came to Montgomery County., Ark., and has been a resident of Polk Township, where he owns a fine farm of 300 acres, 90 acres under cultivation. For the past six years he has been engaged in merchandising also, and is accounted one of the substantial business men in this section of the country. In June, 1862, he joined Company I, Grimstead's regiment of Arkansas troops, and was in the engagements at Prairie Grove and at the evacuation of Little Rock. He was furloughed home, where he was captured in December, 1863, but after being released, was again captured in September, 1864, at Fort Gibson, Ind. Ty., and was kept in the stockade at Tyler, Tex., until after the war. Since then he has been with his family in Arkansas. He served some years as justice of the peace, and in 1876 was elected sheriff of Montgomery County, being re-elected in 1878 and again in 1880. Since then he has given his attention to his own business affairs, with the above mentioned results. Socially he is a member of the Mount Ida Lodge No. 140 of the A.F. & A.M. [The Goodspeed Biographical & Historical Memoirs of Western Arkansas, Published by Southern Publishing Company 1891.]

W. B. Goodner, M.D. Biography

W.B. Goodner, M.D., has been a resident of this section all his life, for he was born in Polk Township, of Montgomery County, in 1857, to James M. and Elizabeth (Logan) Goodner, the former born in Waynesboro, Tenn., in 1833, and the later in Clark County, Ark, in 1836, their marriage being consummated in Montgomery County, where Mrs. Goodner died in 1877, and Mr. Goodner is still residing, a well-known citizen. He served through the Rebellion in the Confederate Army as a commissioned officer in the Trans-Mississippi Department. For a number of years he had been a member of the Baptist Church and the A.F. & A.M. His father John C. Goodner came to this county from Tennessee in an early day and here spent the latter part of his life as a farmer, having previously been a tanner. He was of German parentage, and passed from this life after the close of the Civil War. The grandfather, William Logan, was a pioneer farmer of Clark County, Ark., was of Scotch descent, and passed from this life prior to the was. Dr. W.D. Goodner is the second of nine children, six now living, and spent his youth on his father's farm, his education being received at Bellefonte. At the age of twenty-one began the study of medicine, which he continued for several years, and in 1883 commenced his practicing at Mount Ida, where he remained for nearly two years, during which time he acquired a good practice. Since then he has resided at Black Springs, where he has acquired an excellent reputation as a practitioner of the "healing art." He was married in 1878 to Lucy, daughter to H. S. Goodner and Laurena Goodner, who are residents of Polk Township. The Doctor's wife was born in that township and she has borne her husband one child, a daughter. They are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, South, and for one year 1886 to 1887, the Doctor was postmaster at Black Springs. He has been president of the Board of Medical Examiners of Montgomery County for six years. [The Goodspeed Biographical & Historical Memoirs of Western Arkansas, Published by Southern Publishing Company 1891.]

Dr. W. W. Hargrove Biography

Dr. W.W. Hargrove is a practicing physician and surgeon and farmer of Oden, Ark., was born in Tippah County, Miss., in 1844, to James W. and Martha Ann (Poole) Hargrove, who were born in Alabama and Mississippi, respectively, their marriage taking place in the last named State, from which they moved to Texas about 1849. In 1851 they came to Madison County, Ark., and in 1861 to Montgomery County, where Mr. Hargrove died in 1863, his widow passing to her long home in Scott County, Ark., in 1886, a worthy member of the Missionary Baptist Church. Mr. Hargrove was a farmer, a son of Lindsey Hargrove. Dr. W.W. Hargrove was the eldest in a family of five son and four daughters, but as he was put to work on his father's farm at an early day, he received but little schooling. In 1863 he joined Witherspoon's battalion and operated in Arkansas, Louisiana and Texas, taking part in the engagement at Jenkins' Ferry, Pine Bluff, Poison Springs and Mark's Mill. His regiment was disbanded at Corsicana, Texas, at the close of the war, after he returned to Arkansas and began farming in Scott County, where he made his home until 1877, when he took up the study of medicine with Dr. J.W. Smith, remaining with him for about three years, since which time he has practiced with success, and has a good and paying practice. He was married in 1866 in Montgomery County to Miss Nancy A., daughter of Leonard and Axey E. Jackson, natives of Tennessee, who first moved from there native State of Missouri, thence to Clark County, Ark., and then to Montgomery County, where the mother is still living, the father having died in Scott County in 1886. Mrs. Hargrove was born in Missouri. She has borne her husband ten children, of whom nine are living. In 1885 Mr. Hargrove came here from Scott County, and of a farm of 120 acres of which he is the owner, he has eighty acres cleared and under cultivation, well supplied with good buildings. He was justice of the peace in Scott County for some time and he and his wife are Methodists. [The Goodspeed Biographical & Historical Memoirs of Western Arkansas, Published by Southern Publishing Company 1891.]

Isaac P. Hollifield Biography

Isaac P. Hollifield is a well known farmer residing near Black Springs, Ark., but he first saw the light of day in Murray County, Ga., in 1844, being the eldest of nine children born to the marriage of Jacob Hollifield and Lucretia Gordon, both of whom were born in North Carolina, the former in 1814, there marriage taking place in Murray County Ga., where they lived until 1869, at which time they became residents of Pulaski County, Ark., and later of Garland County. Since 1873 the family have made their home in Montgomery County, and although the mother has passed to her long home, Mr. Hollifield still resides here, a farmer. He has been justice of the peace for some years, has acquitted himself with credit while holding this office and as a man and citizen is substantial and to be relied upon. His father, Isaac Hollifield, was born in Europe, and when a young man came to the Untied States and spent the rest of his days in the Old North State, where he passed from life. John Gordon, the maternal grandfather of the subject of this sketch was a North Carolinian, who passed form life in Georgia, having spent many years as a farmer of that State. Isaac P. Hollifield was given a limited early school education, and in 1869, while still a resident of Georgia, he married to Miss Missouri, daughter of Ellia and Permelia Sloan, who were born in Tennessee and North Carolina respectively, and in 1881 came from Georgia to Montgomery County., Ark., where, up to the present time, they have made their home, Mr. Sloan being one of the honest "sons of the soil." Mrs. Hollifield was born in Whitefield County, Ga., and has borne her husband six children, one son and two daughters are now living. In 1869 Mr. Hollifield came to Conway County, and in 1870 to Clark County, but has been a worthy and fairly successful agriculturist of Montgomery County since 1872, being a resident of his present farm of 105 acres for the past twelve years. Of this farm he has fifty acres cleared, and his place is considered on e of the neatest and best kept in this section. He is a member of the New Hope Lodge No. 42, of the A.F. & A.M., and he and his wife are members of the Missionary Baptist Church. [The Goodspeed Biographical & Historical Memoirs of Western Arkansas, Published by Southern Publishing Company 1891.]

William A. Hopper Biography

William A. Hopper has now has now reached the age of sixty-three years, and although he has been a successful farmer, he is now living retired from the active duties of life. He was born in Lincoln County, Tenn., in 1827, to James and Celia (Hilliard) Hopper, who were born in North Carolina, married in Tennessee, and spent their lives in the last names State, dying since the war, both members of the Primitive Baptist Church. Mr. Hopper was a son of John Hopper, who died of measles at New Orleans while serving in the War of 1812. William A. V is the eldest of their nine children, and was reared on a farm, obtaining a common-school education. He was married in Lincoln County, Tenn., in 1848, to Julia, daughter of John Basinger, who passed from life in that county. Mrs. Hopper was born in Lincoln County, and died in 1875, having become the mother of eight children: Barsheba J. (wife of W.C. Middleton), James M. (of Texas), John F., George W., Celia Ann (wife of Mr. Hewin, of Pike County), Joseph H. (of Texas), Alex Marion and Mattie (the last two named dying young). Mr. Hopper's second marriage took place in 1876, his wife being a daughter of Joshua and Phoebe A. Williams, who was born in Tennessee and Arkansas respectively. Mr. Williams died in Murfreesboro, Ark., in 1866, and his wife in Montgomery County in 1888. Mrs. Hopper was born in Pike County of this State, and has one daughter. She and her husband have adopted a son also whom they have reared from infancy, he now nine years of age. His name is Benjamin L. In 1849 Mr. Hopper came to Clark County, and settled on Caddo Creek, and in 1851 moved up the Caddo to Montgomery County, where he has lived ever since. He has improved three farms, and is one of the leading agriculturists of this region, being the owner of about 1,000 acres of land, 300 of which are cleared, the results of his own efforts. After the war he followed the occupation of merchandising in connection with farming until a few years since, when he was compelled to abandon business on account of ill health caused by paralysis. During the early part of the Rebellion he served in McNairy's regiment for about three months, the same length of time being spent in the latter part of the war in Oosley's battalion. He is a member of New Hope Lodge No. 42, of the A.F. & A.M., a member of the Christian Church, both his wives being members also. [The Goodspeed Biographical & Historical Memoirs of Western Arkansas, Published by Southern Publishing Company 1891.]

Robert J. Housley Biography

Robert J. Housley enjoys the reputation of, not only a substantial farmer, but an intelligent and thoroughly posted man in all public affairs. He is well known for honorable, upright dealing, and no man in this section of the county bears a better reputation than he. He was born in Hamilton county, Tenn., February 14, 1840, to George W. and Sarah J. (Elder) Housley, they being born in Jefferson and Meige Counties, Tenn., respectively, their marriage taking place in Decatur, Tenn.. After living in that neighborhood for some time they moved to Hamilton County, and from that place came to Montgomery County, Ark., in 1871, the father's death occurring here in 1884, at the age of sixty-three, and the mother's in 1886, when sixty-five years old, both being members of the Missionary Baptist Church. Mr. Housley was a clerk in this church, was a Democrat in his political views, and, being a mason, was buried with Masonic honors. During the war with Mexico he was a volunteer, and started for the seen of action, but the war ended before he reached that country. He was a farmer and a merchant, and at one time was the owner of 1,700 acres of fine land on Savannah Creek. He was of English extraction. His marriage was blessed with eight children, of whom Robert J. Housley was the eldest. He spent his school days in Hamilton County, Tenn., and was an attendant of the Academy on Waldron's Ridge. At the age of sixteen years he left home and came to Arkansas, and since that tome has resided near Cedar Glades, in Montgomery County. He has an excellent tract of land comprising of 360 acres, and, although he has 150 acres cleared and under cultivation, the rest is in woodland. In September, 1862, he joined the First East Tennessee Cavalry, and served until the close of the war, being in the battles of Chickamauga, Missionary Ridge, Knoxville, and Marion, Va., where he was wounded with a spent ball, but not seriously. He was at Greenville when John H. Morgan was killed. After the war he was absolutely without means, with the exception of a good constitution and the determination to make a success of his life, and first began operating a gin and mill as a means to this end, his efforts meeting with the above mentioned results. On October 2, 1859, he was married to Miss Sarah I. Freeman, daughter of John A. Freeman, a Hamilton County, Tennesseean, who died July 14, 1887. Of a family of eight children born to Mr. and Mrs. Housley, five are now living: John W. (a merchant of Hot Springs), James N., Montie T. (wife of James Q. Ryan, a farmer of this county), Joseph J. and William M. On April 17, 1888, Mr. Housley was married to Miss Nancy E. Bird, of Scott County, Tenn., and by her has one child, Ada Pearl. Mr. Housley has been a member of the Missionary Baptist Church since 1860, and socially belongs to the Henderson Lodge No. 147, of the A.F. & A.M. He is a Democrat, has been justice of the peace six years, notary public five years, and postmaster since 1883. Also see Henry Williamson. [The Goodspeed Biographical & Historical Memoirs of Western Arkansas, Published by Southern Publishing Company 1891.]

Jesse Irby Biography

Jesse Irby, a farmer of Caddo Township, Montgomery County, Ark., was born in Madison County, Ark., in 1840 to Dudley G. and Elizabeth (Vaughan) Irby, the former born in Virginia in 1809, and the latter in Kentucky in 1823, their marriage occurring on Blue-Grass soil. After residing some years in Alabama they returned to Kentucky, where Mr. Irby died in 1873, and his widow in 1878, she a member of the Christian Church. He was a farmer, and for four years was sheriff of Union County, having previously been county and probate judge. He was a soldier in the Florida and Mexican Wars, and died a farmer in Madison County, Ala. John Irby, his father was born in Scotland and died at his son's birthplace in Virginia. William Vaughn, Mrs. Irby 's father, was of German origin and died in Union County, KY. The subject of this sketch is the eldest of seven sons and three daughters, three sons and two daughters now living, and he is the only one that resides in this county. He never received a days schooling in his youth, but at the age of eighteen he left his home in Kentucky, and joined Company D, Second Kentucky Cavalry, his first engagement being Sacramento, Ky. At the capture of Fort Donelson he was one who made his escape with Gen. Forest, but in May of the same year he was captured at Farmington, Miss., and was in prison at Alton, Ill., until Oct, 1862. He afterward joined Gen. John Morgan's command and was with him on the famous raid into Indiana and Ohio. He was captured at Buffington Island, Ind., and for about two months was a prisoner at Rock Island, after which he served as forge master for Gen. Breckinridge until the close of the war. In 1866 he went to Texas, but soon after returned to what is now Clay County, Ark., and in 1868 was married to Isabella, daughter of James and Elizabeth Miller, who was born in Decatur County, Tenn., from whence they removed to Greene County, Tenn., at which place Mr. Miller's death occurred in 1865, his widow still residing there. Mrs. Ibry was born in Greene County, and of eleven children she has borne her husband, six are living. Soon after his marriage Mr. Irby returned to Texas where he lived until 1880, then moved to the Chickasaw Nation and in 1889, to his present farm of 198 acres in Montgomery County, of which he has 120 acres cleared. He was deputy sheriff and constable in Cook and Grayson Counties, Tex., and for two years served as a ranger on the frontier. During his residence in the Chickasaw Nation he was a licensed Indian trader for four years and learned to conserve readily with the Chickasaws. He is a member of the I.O.O.F. and belongs to the Christian Church. [The Goodspeed Biographical & Historical Memoirs of Western Arkansas, Published by Southern Publishing Company 1891.]

James F. Jeffrey Biography

James F. Jeffrey This worthy agriculturist is the son of John H. Jeffrey, who during his residence here from 1839 until his death in 1884 was prominently identified with the county's interests, and his memory is cherished by a host of friends and acquaintances who survive him. He was married here to Miss Harriet R. Flemming, both of whom were born near Tuscaloosa, Ala., he in 1822 and she in 1826, her death occurring in 1862, both being members of the Missionary Baptist Church. After the death of his wife Mr. Jeffrey was afterward married twice. He was a farmer and tanner by occupation, was a member of the A.F. & A. M., and for a short time served in the Confederate Army. His father, James Jeffrey, was of Cherokee Indian blood, and was one of the early settlers of Montgomery County, Ark., but resided here only a few years, when he went to Caldwell County, Tex., there dying in 1860, having been with Crockett in the Florida War. James Flemming, the maternal grandfather of the subject of this sketch, was also one of the early settlers of this region, and in and early day served as clerk of this county. He was a tanner and teacher by occupation and passed from life in this county in November, 1860. James F. Jeffrey was born in this county in 1847, being the third of nine children. He was reared on a farm but few additional educational advantages, and in 1863 he joined Company F., Tom Gunter's regiment of Cabel's brigade of cavalry, and was afterward in the infantry in Southern Arkansas, Louisiana and Texas, taking part in the battles of Mark's Mill, Poison Springs, Jenkins' Ferry and others. He surrendered at Marshall, Tex., at the close of the war, and returned home. In January, 1870, he was married to Mary E., daughter of Dr. George W. and Sarah Gray, the former a Georgian, who came to this county just prior to the war, Mrs. Gray dying in Clark County, Ark., while en route. Dr. Gray now lives in Comanche County, Tex., a successful medical practitioner. Mrs. Jeffrey was born in Georgia, and of twelve children born to herself and her husband, ten are living. Since his marriage Mr. Jeffrey has lived on his present farm of 240 acres, of which he has 150 acres under cultivation, all being obtained by his own energy and perseverance. He and his wife are members of the Missionary Baptist Church, and he is one of the well known and substantial farmers and citizens of this county. [The Goodspeed Biographical & Historical Memoirs of Western Arkansas, Published by Southern Publishing Company 1891.]

Benjamin Johnson, Jr. Biography

Benjamin Johnson, Jr. By attending strictly to his chosen calling, that of farming, Mr. Johnson has done much to advance the reputation which Montgomery County enjoys as a prosperous farming community. He was born in Newton County, Miss., in 1842, to Dr. Benjamin and Clarinda E. (Fowler) Johnson, the former born in Alabama, in 1813, and the latter in New Jersey, in 1818, their marriage occurring in Newton County, Miss., where they lived until 1854, after which they settled in Calhoun County, Ark., and in 1858 in Montgomery County, and although they first settled on Walnut Fork, they are now residing on the waters of the Mazarn. From 1859 to 1861 they lived in Pike County. Dr. Johnson has been a practicing physician since 1858. He was clerk of Newton County, Miss., for some years, and served nearly two years and three months in the Untied States cavalry, operating in Arkansas part of the time, but a portion of the time was assistant surgeon in the hospital. His father, Henry Johnson, was of Irish descent, a Methodist minister, and died in Mississippi. The immediate subject of this sketch was the second of a family of four sons and four daughters, was reared on a farm, and received the advantages of common schools. He came to Arkansas with his parents in 1861, and from here enlisted in Company C, Fourth Arkansas Infantry, Confederate states Army, and fought at Murfreesboro, Chickamuga, and many other battles. He was captured at Chickamauga, and was imprisoned at Camp Douglas until the close of the war, nearly two years. He then returned to Montgomery County, and engaged in farming, marrying in 1877, Samantha, daughter of David and Anna Basinger, who were formerly residents of Kentucky, but afterward lived in Indiana, Illinois and came from Missouri to this county, before the war, where both died, the father being a farmer and a merchant. Mrs. Johnson is a native of this county, and has borne her husband six children. The first year after his marriage Mr. Johnson lived at Caddo Gap, and since then on his present farm, on Collier's Creek, which consists of 264 acres. He also successfully manages a general mercantile store and a blacksmith and a wood-work shop. Mr. Johnson has served as justice of the peace in this township to years, bailiff four years, and since he established the post-office of Plata he has been its postmaster. Socially he belongs to New Hope Lodge No. 42, of the AF. & A.M., and has held several offices in this lodge. [The Goodspeed Biographical & Historical Memoirs of Western Arkansas, Published by Southern Publishing Company 1891.]

John W. Martin Biography

John W. Martin The life of him whose name appears above has been one of more than usual interest and his career has been of such benefit and influence to the people, not only of Montgomery County but throughout the State, that a sketch of his life will be of more than passing interest. He was born in this county on April 28, 1850, to Thomas L. and Rachel (Cooper) Martin, who are supposed to have been born in Wayne County, Tenn., the father's death occurring in this county in 1876, when about fifty years of age. His widow still survives him and is a resident of this county. They were married in Tennessee, and in the winter of 1849 came to Arkansas, locating on a farm in the winter of 1849 came to Arkansas, locating on a farm in what is now Mountain Township. As a tiller of the soil he was very successful, and as a merchant he was one of the first in the county. He served in the the Fourth Arkansas Cavalry, Untied States Army, during the Rebellion and was on active service for the greater part of three years. He was taken prisoner at his mill on Blakeley Creek, and was kept in captivity at Camden, for about one month, during which time he suffered untold hardships. Soon after the war he was elected county sheriff, a position he held three years, and justice of the peace quite a number of years, and at his death was buried with Masonic honors. His wife, who is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church South, bore him ten children, the subject of this sketch being the third of the family. He spent his school days at Cedar Glades, but the war interrupted his studied in a great measure, and after the war in 1871, he turned his attention to farming, a calling he followed exclusively until 1882, when he opened up a mill on a small scale. John W. Freeman was a joint owner with him in this mill, which was a small-mill, but at the end of three years Mr. Martin became sole proprietor and is now owner of a good grist-mill and cotton gin. His plant is now one of the best in the county and his farm, which comprises 213 acres, is valuable land. He is now building a handsome residence, and everything about his place shows that a man of thrift and energy and intelligence is at the helm. In 1878 he was elected to the office of justice of the peace, and served by re-election three terms of two years each. He was married in 1871 to Miss Nancy Thornton, who died in 1878, leaving him with three children to care for, two of whom are living. Boss W. and Martha L. James died when about seven years of age. In 1879 Miss Sarah J. Brown, daughter of William Brown, of this county, became Mr. Martin's second wife, their union resulting in the birth of two children; Laura Elizabeth and Dora Alice. Mr. Martin is a member of Henderson Lodge No.147, of the A. F. & A. M. and politically is a Republican. He at all times supports laudable enterprises, and is one of the leading men of the county. He believes in a fair election and a fair count whether the candidate is a Republican or Democrat, and although not a member of any church he is a liberal contributor to all worthy enterprises. His motto at all times is "Honesty is the best policy," and he lives up to this in the fullest sense of the term. [The Goodspeed Biographical & Historical Memoirs of Western Arkansas, Published by Southern Publishing Company 1891.]

George R. Miller Biography

George R. Miller is the capable assessor of Montgomery County, Ark., but by calling is a tiller of the soil, being the owner of 220 acres of valuable land. He was born in Monroe County, East Tenn., in 1834, the fourth of nine children born to the union of John Miller and Nancy Wilson, their marriage taking place in Monroe County, Tenn., their births having occurred in South Carolina and Tennessee in 1803 and 1805 respectively. When the subject of this sketch was two years of age they went to Georgia, and there made their home until 1859, when they moved to Polk County, Ark., where Mrs. Miller passed from life in 1866, and Mr. Miller in 1878, both having been Methodists for some years, though formerly Presbyterians. Mr. Miller was a substantial farmer and served as county and probate judge in Dade County, Ga., for some years while residing there. His father James Miller, died in South Carolina, an Irishman by descent. The mother's father, Joseph Wilson, died in Mason, Ga., a trader and farmer. George R. Miller was given the education and rearing that is usually given the farmer's boy, and in 1853 was married to Martha J., daughter of William and Margaret Davis, who were born in North Carolina in 1787 and 1803, respectively, their marriage taking place in Jackson County, Ala. From there they moved to Dade County, Ga., in 1840, where Mr. Davis died in 1852, a farmer by occupation, his widow passing from life in Polk County, Ark., in 1872. Mrs. Miller first saw the light of day in Tennessee in 1840, and by Mr. Miller became the mother of nine children, two sons and three daughters now living. In 1859 Mr. Miller removed to Texas, where he spent seven more years. At the end of this time he returned to Polk County., Ark and the following year came to Montgomery County. He followed merchandising in Dallas for some years, and for some years operated a steam mill in Polk County. In 1861 he joined Company H. Fourth Arkansas Infantry, and for about two years operated in Arkansas, afterwards joining the Seventeenth Tennessee, with which he served for about one year, taking part in the engagement at Hoover's Gap. In 1872 he was elected sheriff of Polk County, Ark., having previously served as deputy six years, and made one of the most zealous and faithful officers the county ever had. He was justice of the peace in Texas, and in 1890 was elected assessor of Montgomery County, Ark, a position he is still filling. He is a member of the Cherry Hill Lodge No. 228 of the A.F/ & A.M., and for a long time was a junior deacon of Dallas Lodge. He has been a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church from boyhood, and is a staunch Democrat in his political views. [The Goodspeed Biographical & Historical Memoirs of Western Arkansas, Published by Southern Publishing Company 1891.]

John S. Nelson Biography

John S. Nelson, county and circuit clerk of Montgomery County, Ark., was born in this county March 15, 1858, to Archibald and Nancy (Strawn) Nelson, the former born in Tennessee and the latter in Mississippi. They came to Arkansas in 1852 and 1844 respectively, their marriage taking place in this State. The father first settled at Caddo Gap, but for some time past has been a resident of Arkadelphia. Although he is a farmer and machinist by occupation, considerable of his time and attention have been given to operating a mill. Since 1868 he has been a member of the Missionary Baptist Church and has been a minister of the same since 1873, his wife being a member of this church also. She is a daughter of Fielding Strawn, who built the Caddo Gap mill, which is known throughout the State. He was one of the county's first and most prominent judges, and was a man possessing more than the ordinary executive ability. To Mr. and Mrs. Nelson ten children were born, of whom John S. was the second child. His education was acquired in this county and Judson Academy in White County, and also in the University at Fayetteville during 1870-80. On account of ill health he did not graduate, but while in that institution he made the most of his opportunities and was considered one of the most faithful students in the university. He began teaching school at the age of nineteen years and in this way paid his tuition. In 1882 he began farming in this county and is now the owner of an excellent farm from which he derives a paying yearly income. This place is one of the neatest and best kept in the county, the buildings, fences, etc., being in excellent condition. From 1882 to 1886 he served in the capacity of justice of the peace, and in 1890 he was elected to his present position as clerk of the circuit and county courts and entered upon his duties October 30. In 1882 he was married to Miss Alice Johnson, of this county, and three children have blessed their union: William F., Jesse L. and Ida May. Mr. and Mrs. Nelson belong to the Missionary Baptist Church. Mr. Nelson in his race for clerk had three opponents for the nomination on the Democratic ticket, but received the nomination by a majority. He has always been very through in everything he has undertaken, and gives every promise of making an ideal public officer. [The Goodspeed Biographical & Historical Memoirs of Western Arkansas, Published by Southern Publishing Company 1891.]

Goyle Nobles Biography

Goyle Nobles is a well-known citizen residing in the South Fork Township, Montgomery County, Ark., and was born in Wetumpka, Ala., on the Coosa River, February 2, 1832, a son of Richard and Allie (Post) Nobles, natives if North Carolina and Georgia, respectively, the death of death of the former occurring in Union Parish, La., in 1872, and that of the latter in January, 1862, at the ages of seventy and sixty years. Richard Nobles was a boy when he moved to Georgia, nut he was married in Alabama, and made that State his home until 1857, being a tiller of the soil. He was a soldier with Jackson in the war with the Indians, and was wounded in battle. Both he and his wife were members of the Primitive Baptist Church for many years, in which he was a deacon, and politically he was a life-long Democrat, as have always been the male members of his family. His father, Tennyson Nobles, was a native of Scotland, who married an Irish wife. To Richard Nobles and his wife eight children were born, Goyle being their fifth child, he being the only one of the family that is now living as far as know. He lived with and took care of his father and mother until their deaths, his occupation being that of a farmer. He has a farm of 212 acres on the south fork of the Ouachita River, and all can be readily put under cultivation. His house and barn are seventy-nine feet above the creek, and are pleasantly located. He has been a resident of this farm since 1869, coming thither from Louisiana, and claims that his land is among the best, if not the best, in the county. He raises an abundance of fruit, and excellent buildings which are on on his place he has, himself, caused to be erected. In the spring of 1862 he joined the Thirty-first Louisiana Infantry, Company H., under Col. Morrison, and served until the was terminated. He was at Chickasaw Bayou, Fort Gibson, and the siege of Vicksburg, where he was captured, afterward paroled, but was never exchanged. Upon his return home he found all his property had been laid waste, a security debt of $600 hung over him and he had a wife and three children dependant on him for a livelihood. Although the outlook for the future was dark, he set energetically to work to provide for his family and pay off his indebtedness and this, in time, he succeeded in doing. His marriage which occurred on December 11, 1856, was to Miss Alzada Gray, a daughter of Jesse Gray, her birth occurring in Alabama, near the birthplace of her husband, December 24, 1831, their union resulting in the birth of four children: Mary F. (wife of William Garrett, a farmer of this county), Ella, James Richard and Norma. Two children are dead: Mary Ann (who died at the age of thirty-one years, the wife of S.M. Smith, the present treasurer of Montgomery County), and Tennyson (who died when twenty-one years old). Mr. Nobles is a member of the Primitive Baptist Church, and socially he is a member of Henderson Lodge No. 147 of the A.F. & A.M. He is a Democrat. [The Goodspeed Biographical & Historical Memoirs of Western Arkansas, Published by Southern Publishing Company 1891.]

William Reeves Biography

William Reeves. The entire life of this gentlemen has been one unmarked by any unusual occurrence outside of the chosen channels to which he has so diligently applied himself, and although he was born in Smith County, Tenn., in 1839, he has been a resident of Montgomery County, Ark., since 1859, and has identified himself with every interest of his adopted county and State. His parents, Dr. William and Ruth (Campbell) Reeves, were born in North Carolina, but afterwards became residents of Smith County, Tenn., the father dying when William was a small boy, and his mother when he was nine years old. He was the youngest of two sons and one daughter born to them: John (deceased), and Mary J. (wife of Thomas Green), being the other two members of the family. William was reared by an uncle, Moses Reeves, of Smith County, until he was ten years of age, when he began doing for himself, working on a wood boat on the Cumberland River for several years, afterwards turning his attention to farming. He was married in 1850, to Miss Emily Jones, and the same year came to Montgomery County, and lived on the south fork of the Caddo River, where he has a fine farm of 368 acres. For about seven years he was engaged in merchandising at Black Springs, but has since devoted his attention to farming, a calling for which he is naturally adapted. In February, 1863, he became a member of Company A, First Arkansas Infantry, and operated in Missouri, Indian Territory and Arkansas. He organized Company I, of the second Kansas troops, but afterwards took part in the engagement at Jenkins' Ferry, besides several others. In 1868 he received the appointment of sheriff of Montgomery County, a position he has satisfied for four years. He is a demitted member of Crystal Ridge Lodge, of the A.F. & A.M., and for some time has been an earnest member of the Christian Church. [The Goodspeed Biographical & Historical Memoirs of Western Arkansas, Published by Southern Publishing Company 1891.]

William Owens Robins Biography

William Owens Robins belongs to the sturdy, honest and independent class, the farmers of Arkansas, and is now engaged in cultivating an estate comprising 664 acres, on which he has resided since 1882, 75 acres of which he has cleared by his own efforts, this land being well adapted to the purpose of general farming. He was born in Murray County, Ga., in 1832, being the second of ten children -seven sons and three daughters- born to the marriage of Thomas J. Robins and Mary Bates, the former born in Franklin County, Ga., in 1808, and the latter in South Carolina, in 1811, their marriage being celebrated in Hall County, Ga., and in 1849 came to this county and State, settling on a farm in Caddo Gap, on which both parents died, the former in 1874, and the latter in 1864, they have been consistent members in the Missionary Baptist Church for many years. William Robins, the parental grandfather, was born in South Carolina, and died in Murray County, Ga., in 1847 his widow dying in Hempstead County, Ark., to which she had moved in 1857. Mr. Robbins was of Scotch descent, and was an extensive slave and stock trader. Julius Bates, the maternal grandfather of William O. Robbins, was also a South Carolinian, but afterwards became a resident of Murray County, Ga. where he farmed until his demise, in 1862, he also being a Scotchman. Although William O. Robins received a very meager education in his youth, he was naturally intelligent, and has, at all times, made the most of his opportunities. He was married in this county in 1854 , to Emily, daughter of John and Mary McDonald, who were born, reared and married in South Carolina, moving soon afterward to Glimer County, Ga. and in 1852 to this county, where the father died in 1857, and the mother in 1859. Mrs. Robins was born in South Carolina, and has borne her husband five children, three living. Mr. Robins at first lived on his father's farm, then spent twenty-five years on the south fork of the Ouachita River, and since 1882 on his present farm. He has since followed farming, saw and grist-milling and cotton ginning. He is a member of the New Hope Lodge No. 42, of the A.F. & A.M., at Caddo Gap, and has always been public spirited and enterprising. In 1862 he joined Company B, Gunistead's [Grimstead] regiment, but was afterward with Monroe's regiment, operating in the Cherokee Nation and in Arkansas. [The Goodspeed Biographical & Historical Memoirs of Western Arkansas, Published by Southern Publishing Company 1891.]

B. M. Rowton Biography

B.M. Rowton is a member of the general mercantile firm of B.M. Rowton & Bro., of Black Springs, Ark., who established their business in December, 1887, their annual sales amounting to $10,000 since that time. Mr. Rowton was born in this county in 1853, and has spent his life here, identifying himself with every interest of this section, and proving himself a man of sound and progressive views on all subjects. His parents, William D. and Eliza (McClure) Rowton, were born in Virginia in 1796, and South Carolina in 1808 respectively, their marriage consummated in Murfreesboro, Tenn. From this State they came to Montgomery County, Ark., in 1843, improving a good farm near where Black Springs is now situated. Here Mr. Rowton died in 1859 and his widow in 1873, she being a member of the Methodist Church. Mr. Rowton's father was a soldier in the Creek Indian War, and was a son of William Rowton, who was all probability born in Virginia of Irish parents, his death occurring in Tennessee. Although B.M. Rowton received but little schooling in his youth, his days being spent at hard labor on the farm, he, on reaching manhood, was as well posted as the average man, a result which was brought about by self application. He was married in 1872 to Mary, daughter of Spencer White, an Alabamian who, at an early day, removed to what was Howard County, Ark., his wife dying here when Mrs. Rowton was an infant. Soon after the death of his wife Mr. White went to California, and has not been heard from since. Mrs. Rowton was raised by an uncle, Frank Moore, and has borne her husband three children. Mr. Rowton was engaged in farming until 1880, then removed to Black Springs and following the occupation of blacksmithing until 1887, when, as above stated, he opened his present establishment. He was postmaster of the town for two years, justice of the peace six years, has been a long member of the Methodist Church, and at all times been a worthy citizen of the region. His brother, who is associated with him in business, W.C. Rowton, was born in Rutherford County, Tenn.., and came to this State and county with his parents, marrying Miss Jane White, a sister of his brother's wife, they also being worthy members of the Methodist Church. Their father, William D. Rowton, was married twice and has six children by each wife, of whom B.M. Rowton is the youngest. [The Goodspeed Biographical & Historical Memoirs of Western Arkansas, Published by Southern Publishing Company 1891.]

William D. Sandlin Biography

William D. Sandlin, one of Montgomery county's energetic and public spirited citizens, was born in Blountiville, Bount County, Ala., May 4, 1861, to Obediah and Carrie (Ratliffe) Sandlin, both natives of Alabama, the mother dying in Garland County, Ark., when the subject of this sketch was nine years of age. At the time of her marriage with Mr. Sandlin, she was the widow of Robert Graves. After her death, which occurred at the age of thirty-five years, Mr. Sandlin married Mrs. Margaret Jones, and is now residing in Montgomery County, Ark. He was in an Alabama regiment during the war, but most of the time was on post duty at Pensacola, Fla., and Montgomery Ala. and for some time was also of the regimental quartermaster's department. He has been a successful farmer, and is now residing at Silver City, a member of the Baptist Church, a Mason, and a Democrat in politics. The subject of this sketch was one of four children, being the third of the family, and spent his school days in Blount County, Ala., he lived with his father until twenty-four years of age. He has begin serving in the capacity of deputy sheriff under Mr. Golden, a position which he is now filling in this county. In February, 1889, he was employed to assumed charge of the mill and gin owned by Watkins Bros., but in June of the next year he leased the mills, but receives an excellent revenue there from. He was brought up to a farm life, but in his youth worked in a blacksmith's shop and became an excellent wood workman. He is the owner of a shop at Mount Ida but leases it, but keeps a livery and feed stable, which he is the owner, under his own care. He also owns other valuable property, and gives every promise of becoming well to do. On April 10, 1887, he was married to Miss Queen Salyers, daughter of M.V.B. Salyers, formerly a merchant of Mount Ida, and to them one daughter has been born, Ruey Alice. Mr. Sandlin is a staunch Democrat in politics. [The Goodspeed Biographical & Historical Memoirs of Western Arkansas, Published by Southern Publishing Company 1891.]

Daniel Newton Scott Biography

Daniel Newton Scott. The agricultural affairs of Montgomery County, Ark., are ably represented among others by Mr. Scott, who comes of a well known family, the Scotts of Kentucky. He was born in this county in 1854, to John and Susannah (Earp) Scott, the former born on Blue-Grass soil in 1818, and his wife a few years later, the nuptial of their marriage being celebrated in Tennessee from which State they came to Montgomery County, Ark., some forty years ago, on land on the Caddo River, of which they made a good farm. Mr. Scott was a lieutenant in Capt. Erwin's company Fourth Infantry Arkansas troops in the Trans-Mississippi Department, and was present in the battle of Elk Horn, beside many others. His parents died when he was a small boy, and he was thus left with but little knowledge of his ancestors. He was for many years a member of the Missionary Baptist Church, and died in 1888. His wife's father was an early settler of Polk County, Ark., and in that county he died prior to the war. Daniel Newton Scott was the eighth of eleven children born to his parents, and at the age of four was left without a mother's care and guidance. He was reared on a farm and educated in the common schools of the neighborhood also spending one year in the University of Fayetteville. Two of his brothers served in Erwin's company, in the Confederate Army. William J. dying while in the service, the other brother James A. coming through unharmed. Daniel N. was first married to Frances, the daughter of Thomas and Sallie Gore, but she died in Montgomery County, Ark., in 1880., having borne three children, two now living. Mr. Scott's second marriage took place in 1883, the maiden name of his wife being Holly Gray, daughter of Robert and Eveline Gray, who came from Georgia to Clark County, Ark., later to become residents of Montgomery County, Ark., where Mr. Gray still lives, his wife having passed from this life in Clark County, where Mrs. Scott was born. He and Mrs. Scott have two children. Since his first marriage Mr. Scott has lived on his farm of 160 acres, 65 of which are cleared by his own efforts, considerable of his attention being given to stock-raising also. Two of his brothers, James and Robert, reside in Texas. His sister, Sarah A, is the wife of Jesse Moore, and Elizabeth is the wife of John Hickey. [The Goodspeed Biographical & Historical Memoirs of Western Arkansas, Published by Southern Publishing Company 1891.]

Samuel M. Smith Biography

Samuel M. Smith is the efficient and trustworthy treasurer of Montgomery County, Ark., a position he has filled in a very acceptable manner for the past eight years. He has been a citizen of this county since 1852, but was born in Bedford County, Tenn., September 10, 1831, to Josiah and Nancy (Drake) Smith [an error. His mother was Nancy Z. Roberts. Amanda Drake was Josiah Smith's 2nd wife, but they didn't have any children], the former born in South Carolina and the latter in Virginia, their union taking place in Bedford County, Tenn., whither they had gone with their parents when young. They made their home their until 1847 at at which time they removed to Tippah County, Miss., and in in 1855 to Webster County, Mo. The mother died there in 1861, aged about fifty-seven years. Mr. Smith then moved to Boone County, Ark., and is still residing, aged eighty-four years. He has always been a farmer, and a very successful one, since 1845 has been a member of the Primitive Baptist Church, in which he has long been a deacon. He is a Democrat in his political views. He and his wife became the parents of twelve children, of whom the subject of this sketch was the third in order of birth. He attended the schools in Mississippi in his youth, and at the age of twenty-one commenced to farm in Montgomery County, his first purchase of land here being on the present site of Oden. On this place he resided until 1871, then moved to Mount Ida, and here by hard work, good management and economy, he has become the owner of a fine tract of land, comprising 300 acres, the most of which is under cultivation. In 1882 he was elected office of the county treasurer, and has served, by re-election, up to the present time, with every evidence of satisfaction. In July, 1861, he joined the Twenty-fourth Arkansas Infantry, and after a short service was discharged, but soon after joined Col. Newton's regiment of Cavalry, and was lieutenant of his company, serving until disbanded at Fulton, Ark. He was in the battle of Wilson's Creek, and while at home, on one occasion, was taken prisoner, but was soon released. The war left him badly crippled, financially, but as has been seen, he has, in a great measure, retrieved his losses. He has for the last few years operated a grist, saw mill and cotton-gin on his farm, in all which has done well. In 1853 he was married to Miss Melvina Goodner, a daughter of John C. Goodner, an early settler of this county. She died in October, 1862, the mother of five children, two now living: John G. (a farmer of the county), and Josiah M. (following the same occupation here). William C. (the third son, died recently in this county, leaving a widow and three children). In February, 1863, Mr. Smith married Miss Martha Deer [DERR], of this county, but she, too, passed from life, her death occurring in October, 1864, leaving a daughter, Mary J., who was the wife of Charles Laird, of this county. In October, 1865, Mr. Smith took a third wife, Miss Mary Ann Fryar, of this county, she dying in October, 1883, and leaving him with seven children to care for: Thomas O., Samuel L. Susan H., Granville W., Alfred F., Margaret A., and Elizabeth (who died in childhood). Martha A. Shirley became the wife of Mr. Smith in August, 1888, she being a daughter of Goyle Nobles, and widow of Jackson Shirley. She was born in Louisiana, and died January 4, 1889. Mr. Smith is a member of the Primitive Baptist Church, and politically, is a Democrat. [The Goodspeed Biographical & Historical Memoirs of Western Arkansas, Published by Southern Publishing Company 1891.]

Alex N. Thornton Biography

Alex N. Thornton is a miller of Black Springs, Ark., and the work he turns out is remarkably satisfactory, the patronage he has is attracted to this place for milling purposes being constantly on the increase. He was born in Forsyth County, Ga., in 1844, to Isaac and Clara (Nuckles) Thornton, the former born in Georgia and the latter in Virginia. Mrs. Thornton removed to Georgia with her parents when a girl, and there she married and lived until he death in 1862, a member of the Missionary Baptist Church. Mr. Thornton afterward married a second time, and in 1867 removed to Texas, and in 1871 to Montgomery County, where he still lives, a farmer and a member of the Missionary Baptist Church also. He served in a regiment of the Georgia Infantry during the Rebellion. His father, Thomas Thornton, was born in the Palmetto State, and died in Georgia, he being also a worthy and successful tiller of the soil. He was of English descent, a soldier in the War of 1812, and his father was a native of England. Alex Nuckles was the mother's father, an Englishman by birth, who became a farmer of Whifield County, Ga., where he spent his declining years. Alex N. Thornton was the fifth of ten children, and although he was reared on a farm, he, as soon as old enough was put to school and acquired a good common-school education. In 1862 he joined Company C, Thirty-ninth Georgia Infantry, Army of Tennessee, and was in the siege of Vicksburg, at Missionary Ridge, the Atlanta campaign, Franklin, Nashville, Mobile and back to Johnston's Army in North Carolina, surrendering with him in that State. He was slightly wounded twice. He 1867 he was married in Whitfield County, Ga., to Mary E., daughter of Ellis and Permelia Slaon, the former born in Tennessee and the latter in North Carolina, their marriage being consummated in Whitfield County, GA., where Mrs. Thornton was born and where she and Mr. Thornton resided until 1870, when they came to Clark County, Ark., in eight years later to Montgomery County, their residents being at Black Springs. Mr. Thornton is the owner of a good water saw, grist-mill and cotton gin, and if close application and study of the wants of his customers will serve to make a permanent success of his mill. Mr. Thornton need no fear as to the outcome of his venture. By his own efforts he has become the owner of 320 acres of land, but the first six years of his residence where he was engaged in merchandising. He has been justice of the peace two years and his wife worships in the Missionary Baptist Church. [The Goodspeed Biographical & Historical Memoirs of Western Arkansas, Published by Southern Publishing Company 1891.]

Judge Silas Vaught Biography

Judge Silas Vaught is a man who has steadily and surely made his way to the front in the profession of law, and he processes in a more than ordinary degree the natural attributes essential to a successful career at the bar and in public. He was born in Jackson County, Ala., in 1831, being a son of Benjamin and Elizabeth (McAnally) Vaught, the former born in Bledsoe, and the latter in Franklin Counties, Tenn., their union taking place in Jackson County, Ala., whither they were taken by their parents when they were young. In 1846 they emigrated to Montgomery County, Ark., and on a woodland farm in this region they found a home and on it spent the remainder of there lives, dying in 1867 and 1878, respectively, both having been members of the Methodist Church for a great many years. Mr. Vaught was a successful tiller of the soil and stock-raiser, and a soldier in the Seminole War. He belonged to the New Hope Lodge of the A.F. & A.M. at Caddo Gap, and as a man and citizen was all that could be desired, for he was industrious, enterprising, charitable and honest. His father, John Vaught, was born in East Tennessee, but was an early emigrant to Alabama, and there died in 1841, a farmer. His wife, Nancy Hatfield, died in 1841. The great-grandfather of Judge Silas P. Vaught, William Vaught, was of German extraction and spent nearly all his life in what is now the District of Columbia, and served during the Revolutionary War. Capt. James McAnally, the mother's father, was a Tennesseean, but in and early day removed to Jackson County, Ala., where he died from the effects of a wound received in the battle of Horse Shoe Bend, some ten years after the battle. He was a captain in one of the Indian wars, and by calling, a farmer. Judge Silas P. Vaught was the eldest of five children born to his parents, those living besides himself being C.B., of the Indian Territory, and J.T., of Crawford County, Ark. The Judge was reared on a farm and educated in the common schools, and after removing to Montgomery County, Ark., with his parents he was married in 1857 to Lucinda, daughter of John and Esther (Tweedle) Vaught, the former of whom was born in Indiana, but in 1817 but came with his father William Tweedle, to this county, settling on the farm which the subject of this sketch is now living, seventy-three years ago. Here he spent the rest of his life, dying in 1858. His wife was born in Tennessee, but came with her parents to Clark County, Ark., where she passed from life in 1849. Mrs. Vaught died in 1874, having borne eight children, seven whom are living. Mr. Vaught was married a second time in 1879, his wife being Elizabeth J., daughter of John T. and Elizabeth Petty, who came from Alabama to Montgomery County, in 1855, but for six years have lived in Polk County. Mrs. Vaught was born in Calhoun County, and has become the mother of two sons and one daughter. Since his marriage Judge Vaught has lived on his present farm of 1,120 acres, about 480 acres of which he has himself cleared. In July, 1861, he joined Company E. Second Arkansas Infantry, the first fight he participated being Wilson's Creek, then Pea Ridge, and was afterward at the evacuation of Corinth. He was then at Richmond, Ky., Perryville, Murfreesboro, Chickamauga and Resaca. While a member of the Trans-Mississippi Department, he fought at Pine Bluff, Mark's Mill, Jenkins' Ferry and surrendered at Marshall, Tex., in June, 1865, after almost four years of hard service. he went out as a private, but served as first lieutenant the most of the time. He was never captured, but was slight wounded. In 1868 he was licensed to practice law, and has since successfully devoted his attention to that profession, being, in 1886, elected to the position of county and probate judge in which capacity he served with distinction for four years, when he declined re-election. [The Goodspeed Biographical & Historical Memoirs of Western Arkansas, Published by Southern Publishing Company 1891.]

Charles J. Watkins, Sr. Biography

Charles J. Watkins, Sr., is a member of the firm of Watkins Bros., merchants, who are doing a prosperous business at Mount Ida. They have the largest and best- paying establishment of the kind in the county, and sell all kinds of merchandise at the smallest possible margin. Mr. Watkins was born in Hamilton County, Tenn., near Old Harrison, October 17, 1847, to William and Martha (Rodgers) Watkins, a short history is given in the sketches of John A. Watkins, to whom three children were born: Charles J., Elijah R. (who was born on January 6, 1830, and died in 1874 in Montgomery County, Ark., where he had risen to prominence as a farmer; he left a widow and two children), John A. (was the youngest of the family and is now a prominent attorney and ex-representative of this county). The subject of this sketch was reared by his grandparents, in Tennessee, until after he was a lad of eleven, and in the school of that State he received a practical education. In 1866 he came with his grandfather, William Rodgers, to Arkansas, but after one year spent near Camden, in Ouachita County, he came to Montgomery County and here, after a time, began farming for himself, a calling he continued to follow until 1881, when he and his brother, John A., formed a partnership in the mercantile business. In 1866 he was married to Miss Susan E. Henegar, of Tennessee, but she died in the fall of the same year, and in 1868 he espoused Miss Ruanna Mayberry, of this county, her people being old settlers of this region from Kentucky. To them a family of six children has been born: Mary A., Mattie May, John G., Robert, Cordelia, and Grover C. In 1871-72 Mr. Watkins served as justice of the peace, then resigned his position. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church South, and he belongs to Mount Ida Lodge No. 140, of the A.F. & A.M. He has always been a Democrat. He has been a successful business man, and he and his brother are the largest taxpayers in the county. As they started out in life as poor boys, this fact speaks well for their ability as financiers. Charles J. owns 320 acres of fine land near Washita, on the Ouachita river, and he and his brother are joint owners of 820 acres on the South Fork. This is the finest farm in the county, and a large portion is in an admirable state of cultivation. [The Goodspeed Biographical & Historical Memoirs of Western Arkansas, Published by Southern Publishing Company 1891.]

Hon. John A. Watkins Biography

Hon. John A. Watkins is an eminent and talented attorney residing at Mount Ida, Ark., but his birth occurred in Hamilton County, Tenn., December 20, 1851, being a son of William and Martha (Rodgers) Watkins, natives of Tennessee. The father died at an untimely age of twenty-six years, having been a very successful farmer throughout his life. After his death his widow married J.C. Witt, and in Hamilton County, Tenn., passed from life in 1859. Mr. Witt still surviving her, a resident of Nashville, Ark. He first removed to Texas, in 1859, then to Missouri, in 1865, and in 1880 settled in Montgomery County, Ark., soon after taking up his abode in Nashville, where he is holding the position of city marshal. Although he has been a merchant of Nashville, his principal occupation throughout life has been farming, but during a short residence in Conway, Faulkner County, Ark., he also held the position of marshal. He entered the Confederate service while in Texas. and throughout the war served east of the Mississippi river, and participated in many battles. The subject of this sketch was reared by his grandfather, William Rodgers, in Hamilton County, Tenn., and there he received the advantages of the common schools. When fourteen years of age he was taken to Fayetteville, Ark., by Mr. Rodgers, and was put to school in the State University at that place, as a law student, having studied for some time under George G. Little. He was admitted to the bar at Mount Ida., Ark., in 1875, and there has continued his practice, with flattering results, up to the present time, first being associated with G. Witt, his half brother. In 1878 Mr. Watkins' services to his party, and his fine intellect became recognized, and he was elected to the position of county treasurer, and was re-elected in 1880, and in 1882 was chosen to represent Montgomery County in the Lower House of the State Legislature, and served two terms of two years each. In 1875 he and O.H. Overstreet opened a general mercantile store at Mount Ida, and at the end of four years Mr. Watkins succeeded his partner his partner, soon after forming a partnership with Eli Smith, the firm being known as Eli Smith & Co, for one year. C.J. Watkins, his brother, next became his partner, and the firm has since been known as Watkins Bros. Although they started with little means, they now do an extensive business, and Mr. Watkins is now the heaviest tax payer in the county. He was married in 1878, to Miss Rebecca Smith, a daughter of Elia Smith, of this place, and by her has five children: Charles T., George T., Margie, John A., Jr., and Florence. Mrs. Watkins is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church South, and Mr. Watkins is a Knight Templar in the Masonic fraternity, He has represented his lodge in the Grand Lodge of the State three times, and his political views is a Democrat. [The Goodspeed Biographical & Historical Memoirs of Western Arkansas, Published by Southern Publishing Company 1891.]

John Welch Biography

John Welch is a farmer of Gap Township, Montgomery County, Ark., but was born in Overton County, Tenn., in 1833 to Thomas F. and Elizabeth (Oliver) Welch, the former born in Tennessee in 1812, and the latter in Georgia in 1810. They were married in Overton County, Tenn., and when their son John was six months old they moved to Hardemam, County, West Tenn., and in 1853 to what is now Montgomery County, where the father died in 1871, and the mother in 1883, the former a minister of the Missionary Baptist Church, of which the mother was also a member. He was a farmer also, and socially was a Royal Arch Mason. His father, who was of Irish descent, died in Hardeman County, Tenn., having lived the honest and independent life of the farmer. George Oliver, the maternal grandfather, was also a worthy tiller of the soil, was a soldier in the War of 1812, being with Jackson at New Orleans, and died at Mississippi. John Welch is the second of nine children, five now living, and all the sons with the exception of himself are ministers of the Missionary Baptist Church. John was reared on the farm with the advantages of a common-school education, and was married in 1852 to Miss Nancy J., daughter of Benjamin and Elizabeth Vaughan, who were born, reared, married, and spent their lives in Hardeman County, Tenn. The death of Mrs. Welch occurred in 1867, she having borne Mr. Welch ten children, all of whom are living except one. In February, 1868, Mr. Welch took for his second wife Mrs. Cynthia Gist, daughter of Judge James H. and Mary West, natives of North Carolina and Tennessee, respectively, their union taking in the later State. Their removal to Arkansas dates, 1857, but since 1859 they have been residents of Montgomery County. Judge West was judge of the county and probate courts of Montgomery County two terms, was at one time tax collector, and in 1866 represented this county in the General Assembly of the State He is also a minister of the Missionary Baptist Church. Mrs. Welch was born in Hamilton County, Tenn., in 1843, and by her first husband became the mother of four, and by Mr. Welch mother of two daughters. In 1853 Mr. Welch came to what is now Montgomery County, and has since lived in Gap Township, being the owner of 480 acres of land in different tracts, all of which he has earned by his own efforts. In 1862 he joined Company C. Forty-second Arkansas Infantry, and fought at Iuka, Corinth, being captured in the last named battle, but was soon after paroled and came home, where he remained until the spring of 1863 when he rejoined his command at Port Hudson, where he was again captured after a siege of forty-eight days. After being paroled this time he returned home to enter the army no more. During his service he was twice wounded. He has been a member of the New Hope Lodge No. 42, of the A.F. & A.M., which he has held nearly all the offices. He belongs to the Farmers' Alliance, and has been a member of the Missionary Baptist Church since 1852, in which he has been a deacon for some years. He has also held the office of justice of the peace for a period of six years. [The Goodspeed Biographical & Historical Memoirs of Western Arkansas, Published by Southern Publishing Company 1891.]

Hiram A. Whittingham Biography

Hiram A. Whittingham has been an active agriculturist for many years, and as such as met with a more than ordinary degree of success. He was born in New Hampshire on February 17, 1832, to Col. Granville and Cordelia (Wilder) Whittington, both of whom were born in Massachusetts, the later being a native of Boston, and the former of Cohasset. They were married in Boston, in which city they made their home until 1838, when they came to Hot Springs, Ark., at which place they made their home until 1840. They then moved to a farm near Mount Ida, where there mother is still living, where the father died on April 27, 1887, at the age of seventy-nine years. He was educated in Boston, and learned the book-binder's trade, at which he worked until coming to Arkansas, when he abandoned it after he had devoted one winter to it in Little Rock. From that time until his death he followed farming as a livelihood, and being a man of splendid judgement and great energy he acquired a large amount of property. He was judge of Hot Springs County, when Montgomery, Garland and Hot Springs were one, holding the position one term, and after Montgomery County was organized he represented it in the Lower House of the Legislature. He was internal improvement commissioner for several years, and held other important positions of trust. For several years he was colonel in the State Militia, and was known as a man of undoubted honor, kindness of heart, and very charitable. He was a Knight Templar Mason, represented his lodge in the Grand Lodge of the State a number of years, and although formerly a Whig, he became a stanch Democrat after the war. He was a Southern sympathizer during this time, and was in favor of succession. His father, William Whittington, was born in England and died in Massachusetts. A son of his, Maj. Hiram A. Whittington, a brother of Granville Whittington, recently died in Hot Springs, Ark., aged eighty-nine. The mother of the subject of this sketch is residing on the old homestead in this county, and although she has reached the advanced age of eighty years, she is quite hale. She is a member of the Christian Church, and has been a mother of ten children, four of whom are now living: Hiram A., Granville N., Horatio B., Cordelia, wife of John S. Elder, of Mount Ida. The other children died as follows: Junius George, at the age of forty-six years, William A., when thirty-five years of age, and Josiah W., when about twenty. The other children died young. The immediate subject of this sketch spent his school days in this county, and after making a home with his father until 1860, he began doing for himself on the farm which he now lives, the principal part of which is covered with timber. Splendid improvements have been made by Mr. Whittington, and the place is admirably adapted and arranged for a stock farm, to which business he gives much attention. The greater part of his 200-acre farm is under cultivation, and all the buildings are excellent. In June, 1863, he joined Col. Ginstead's regiment, Twenty-fourth Arkansas Confederate Infantry, holding the rank of first lieutenant of Company I, but in October, 1863, was discharged at Little Rock. He afterwards became a member of Company K. Col. Newton's regiment, and served until the final surrender. While he was in the army his farm had grown up to weeds, his house had been burned to the ground and all property that could be laid hands on was taken away or destroyed. Thus he had to commence once more at the foot of the ladder, but as has been stated above he has been remarkably successful. In November, 1860, he married Miss Martha Ann Garrett, a daughter of Jesse B. Garrett of Mount Ida, formerly of Scott County, Ark., the State of birth being Illinois. Mrs. Whittington died in March, 1886, having become the mother of the following children: Jefferson D., Ada E. (now married), Hiram A., Cordelia, and Clara J., living. Mr. Whittington is a Democrat and a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church South. [The Goodspeed Biographical & Historical Memoirs of Western Arkansas, Published by Southern Publishing Company 1891.]

Henry Hardin Williamson Biography

Henry Hardin Williamson, postmaster at Buckville, Ark., was born in Hamilton County, Tenn., July 29, 1837, a son of William and Malinda (Marsh) Williamson, natives of Surry County, N.C. They were married in their native State, and lived there and in Tennessee until 1860, when they came to Arkansas and located on the Ouachita River in Montgomery County, the father dying at Hot Springs, while on a visit, when over eighty years of age. He enlisted in the War of 1812, but peace was declared before he entered active duty. He was a farmer throughout his life, and, being successful at this succeeded in accumulating a fortune. He was of Scotch-Irish descent, a member of the Missionary Baptist Church, being a deacon in the same for nearly half a century, and was a life long Democrat. His wife died about 1872, when nearly seventy-two years of age, she being a member of the missionary Baptist Church. She bore her husband eight children, five of whom are living: Sarah (widow of John Moon, she now being a resident of the State of Tennessee, Mary Ann (residing in this State, the widow of Joseph Howell), Julia (wife of John C. Freeman, of this county), Malindia (wife of W.F. Housley, ex-sheriff of Hot Springs County), and Henry Hardin. The immediate subject of this sketch spent his school days in Hamilton County, Tenn., their receiving a fair education in an academy at Waldron's Ridge. He farmed in his native State until the breaking out of the war, then joined Company B, of the First Tennessee Cavalry, under Capt. Snow and Col. Carter, being afterwards, for three years, and advance guard or scout for Gen. Morgan and others. During the battle of Stone River he assisted in setting fire to the Federal wagon train at Larvern, Tenn., and afterwards took part in the engagements at Bean Station, Cumberland Gap, siege of Knoxville, and other places. He was never wounded or taken prisoner, but had several horses shot from under him. In the fall of 1865 he came to Montgomery County, Ark., and located on a farm adjoining that on which he is now living, taking the first homestead claim in Montgomery County. He now owns some very valuable land in this county, comprising over 400 acres, a large portion of which is under cultivation. He is a thoroughly practicable farmer, and, as he has ever given the closest attention to the details of his work, he has been remarkably successful. This has been acquired through his own efforts since the war, for, on the bitter feeling of the Unionists in East Tennessee, he was compelled to leave that county and much of his property behind him. He was one of several hundred indicted at Knoxville, Tenn., for treason. On September 18, 1860, he was married to Miss Mary A. Housley, daughter of G.W. Housley, of Hamilton County, Tenn.,. and to them five children have been born: Jackson C. (a farmer with his father), Mary A.., Henry H. Jr., Nancy J. and William R., all of whom are at home with their parents. Mr. and Mrs. Williamson are members of the Missionary Baptist Church, and he is a Royal Arch Mason and master of Henderson Lodge No. 147. of the A.F. & A.M. He has represented his lodge in the Grand Lodge of the State several times. He was elected treasurer of the county after the reconstruction period, serving one term, and has held the position of notary public. He was the means of having a post-office established at Buckville, and has been its postmaster for two years. He has made law a study, and many of the people in this section of the country come to him for advice, but has never practiced the profession to any great extent. He is a man of sound and intelligent views on all subjects, and is well qualified to give sound advice to all who come to him. [The Goodspeed Biographical & Historical Memoirs of Western Arkansas, Published by Southern Publishing Company 1891.]

Hon. Gibson Witt Biography

Hon. Gibson Witt. The profession of law has attracted the best talent of this county , and a striking instance of this is seen in the gentlemen composing the firm of Watkins & Witt, for they stand at the very top of the bar in the State of Arkansas. Mr. Witt was born in Hamilton County, Tenn., May 2, 1858, to J.C. and Martha (Watkins) Witt, both of whom were born in Tennessee, the former being a native of Hamilton County. He grew to manhood there, followed the occupation of farming, but after the death of his wife, in 1859, he went to Texas, where he remained until the close of the war, at which time he went to Missouri. He resided in different portions of the State until 1875, when he moved to Van Buren County, Ark., and in 1877 settled in Conway, Faulkner County, and about 1880 came to Montgomery County, but is now a resident of Nashville, Ark. Held the position of city marshal of Conway, and is now filling that position in Nashville. His wife, whose maiden name was Rogers, the widow of William Watkins at the time he married her, died when the subject of this sketch was thirteen months old. He was reared to the age of five years by his Grandmother Witt, with whom he resided in Texas for some time. He later rejoined his father, and made his home with him until he attained man's estate. He was given a fair education in the schools of Glasgow, Mo., and completed his knowledge of books in Quitman College and the State University at Fayetteville. In 1881 he turned his attention to the study of law, under his half brother, John A Watkins, at Mount Ida, and in August, 1883, was admitted to practice by Judge H. B. Stewart. After practicing his profession alone for some time, he in April, 1886, formed a co-partnership with his half-brother, Mr. Watkins, which connection has since existed. In February, 1888, he was licensed to practice in the Supreme Court of the State. Soon after leaving school he became county examiner of schools, and help that position continuously for four years. He was elected a representative to the State Legislature in 1888, and again in 1890, both times by large majorities, and is now discharging the duties of the last-named office. He served on the judiciary committee and memorials, and was active in supporting a number of important measures. December 26, 1883, his marriage with Miss V. A. Owen, of this county, was celebrated, she being a daughter of James P. Owen. To them three children have been born: Jerry, Earl and Lessie. Mr. Witt is a Mason, and in his political views is a stanch Democrat. [The Goodspeed Biographical & Historical Memoirs of Western Arkansas, Published by Southern Publishing Company 1891.]