Maury County, Tennessee, Goodspeed A

James F. Agnew was born in Maury County, Tennessee, February 16, 1839, and is the son of John Agnew, a native of Virginia born October, 1804. The father began working for himself at the age 20, and was a shoe-maker by trade. He followed this for 15 years, after which he engaged in farming. In 1827 he took for his second wife Catherine Mitchell, who bore him 8 children, our subject being one of them. His first wife bore him two children: William and Sarah, but died shortly after the birth of Sarah. The second wife died July 30, 1883. She was a good wife and mother, and her death was universally regretted, as also was the death of her husband, John Agnew, who followed her May 28, 1884. They were both worthy members of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. The father of John Agnew was also of the same name. He was born in Ireland, was a shoe maker by trade, and was a soldier in the war of 1812. Our subject remained on the farm until he was twenty-four years of age, when he began farming for himself. In 1861 he enlisted in Company E. Third Tennessee Regiment Infantry, and was in the battle of Fort Donaldson. He was captured at the latter place, but was afterward released. He was again captured at Jackson, Mississippi, where he remained a prisoner for some time, but at last was exchanged and paroled, and came home. September 18, 1862, he married Manda P. Turner, a native of Tennessee, born December 20, 1843, and the daughter of William and M. C.(Candle) Turner. To Mr. and Mrs. Agnew were born three children: Effie D., born December 5, 1864; Rufus F., born February 2nd, 1867, and Addie C., born February 23, 1870. Our subject is a successful farmer, and he and family are members of Cumberland Presbyterian Church. He is a Democrat in politics.

ALFRED N. AKIN, clerk of the Maury County Courts, was born in this county February 25, 1841, son of Samuel W. and Eliza C. (Alexander) Akin, natives, respectfully, of Williamson and Maury Counties, Tenn. The father was a farmer, and resided in the Twenty-second district until his death October 27, 1856. He was magistrate of his district a number of years and gained some celebrity as a skilled mechanic and inventor, having invented a corn and cotton cultivator, which was acknowledged as a very superior and useful patent. Alfred N. Akin was reared and educated in the county, and began merchantile life as a clerk at fifteen years of age. He was connected with the quartermaster's department under Gen. Marcus J. Wright during the war, and from 1866 to 1871 was engaged in merchantile pursuits in Columbia. He held the position of teller in the Bank of Columbia for a time, when ill health compelled him to abandon business entirely. In August, 1874, he was elected to the office of clerk of the county courts, which he has filled faithfully and efficiently by re-election to the present time. Mr. Akin has two sons by Sarah Jones. whom he married August 29, 1867. He is a democrat and Mason (Knight Templar's degree) and a member of the K. of P. and K. of H. fraternities.

JOHN C. ALEXANDER, a prominent and time-honored farmer was born in this county January 8, 1824, and is a son of Abdon J. and Eliza E. (Campbell) Alexander, bith natives of North Carolina. The father Abdon was born July 4, 1798, and followed the vocation of a farmer and stock raiser. He died October 1, 1868. The mother died in 1855. Eleazer Alexander, our subject's paternal grandfather, was born November 23, 1763, and was one of the early settlers of this county coming here as early as 1808 and settling on a tract of land given his wife's brother, Benjamin Carter, for services rendered in the Revolutionary War. He was also a neighbor and fast friend of Ezekiel Polk, grandfather of of James K. Polk. The subject of the sketch was reared on the farm and remained with his parents until he was twenty-two years of age, securing a common school education. He then began farming, and during the war was engaged in making boots and shoes. December 15, 1845, he married Mary W. Sparkman, a native of Williamson County, Tenn. They have six children by this union, all of whom are living; Sarah R., Ross, Laura L., Enola E., Caroline H. and Mary C. In 1868 he engaged in the steam saw-mill business and remained in this business for nine years. He then returned to his present farm where he has been actively engaged ever since. Mr. Alexander and family are leading members of the Christian Church and have the respect and esteem of all their acquaintances.

JOSEPH W. ALEXANDER, merchant and citizen of Spring Hill, Maury Co., Tenn., is a native of this State, born March 20, 1844, son of Randolph and Elizabeth (Sharber) Alexander, natives, respectively, of South Carolina and Tennessee. The father was one of the early settlers of Rutherford County and was a tiller of the soil in the above named county. In 1830 he removed to Henry County, West Tenn., where he resided until his death which occurred in 1854. The mother followed in 1863. Our subject, Joseph W., was reared on the farm and remained with his parents until he was fifteen years of age, at which time he came to this place and residing with his uncle attended school. In 1861 he enlisted in Company E., Third Tennessee Regiment Infantry, serving as high private until he was wounded in the right lung at Jackson, Miss., July 14, 1863. He was afterward put on post duty at Selma, Ala., and was captured there by Wilson's troops. He was paroled at Selma and in 1865 returned to Spring Hill, where he returned to school for some time and received a good education. In 1868 he began in the merchantile business, clerking about six months. After moving about for some time in 1872 he established his present business. December 12, 1873, he was united in marriage to Miss Mattie D. Crump, a native of this State. They have six children; Charley R., Annie L., Bessie W., Joseph B., Blanch and Marcus O., all of whom are living. Mr. Alexander has been postmaster at Spring Hill since 1878. He is a member of the Masonic lodge, a democrat, and himself and family are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

Mrs. REBECCA T. AMIS, a native of Maury County, Tenn,, was born in 1839, and is a daughter of Col. Jonas and Martha (Adkisson) Thomas, who were born in the "Old Dominion." The father came to Tennessee at an early day, and became an eminent lawyer and politician. He represented Maury County in both branches of the State Legislature, and was speaker of the State Senate one term, and as parliamentarian had no superior. He was once nominated for Congress, but owing to ill health was compelled to withdraw from the race. His demise occurred August 3, 1856. The mother died January 14, 1870. Mrs. Amis, our subject, was married October 13, 1857, to John E. Amis, and two children blessed their union; Bruce E. and Jonas T. Mr. Amis took an active part in the late war, and was a member of the gallant Forty-eighth Tennessee Infantry. He was captured at the fall of Fort Donelson, and died in prison in St. Louis, Mo., in 1863. Mrs. Amis is a finely educated woman, and has won quite a reputation as an instructress, having taught at the Atheneum, at Columbia, and in the Tennessee College at Franklin, and also in public schools at that place. She is a member of the Presbyterian Church.

PROF. WILLIAM ANDERSON, a prominent minister and teacher of Maury County, Tenn., and was born in Williamson County, of this State, October 19, 1843, son of James C. and Lucinda (Newsom) Anderson, who were married January 29, 1843, and the parents of four children. The father was a native of Alabama, and came to Williamson County in 1834. He was ordained a minister of the Christian Church in 1828, and followed the vocation of farming in connection with his ministerial duties. He died September 12, 1857. The mother is still living, and a resident of the old homestead in Williamson County. Our subject remained on the farm until he was nineteen years of age, overseeing the business transactions and caring for his widowed mother. He then began attending school at the Franklin College, remaining there until 1872, teaching and attending school, and has continued that occupation ever since. He is at present teaching school at Carter Creek, and has been the local minister of the Christian Church in that neighborhood. In 1875 he wedded Laura Alexander, a native of this county, and became the father of three children: Effie, Ora and Clark C., all living. Prof. Anderson is an eloquent preacher and a learned teacher, and is classed among the leading citizens of Maury County.

E. F. ANDREWS, M. D., a successful physician of Maury County, Tenn., was born in Williamson County, in 1856, son of Ephraim and Sarah (Bizzell) Andrews. Both parents were born in Tennessee, and the father was a skillful shoe-maker and agriculturist, and is, at the present time, a resident of Hickman County. Dr. Andrews is a graduate of the famous Vanderbilt University of Nashville, Tenn., being one of the class of 1883. He began practicing his chosen profession in Hickman County, and in September, 1884, he removed to Williamsport, Maury County, where he is meeting with merited success. For four years previous to his practice he taught school. He is a staunch member of the Democratic party and belongs to the Masonic fraternity. He is a worthy member of the Methodist Episcopal Church South and is a young man of ability and energy.

ROBERT J. BAUGUSS, another old and prominent citizen of Maury County, and a native of this county, was born one mile from where he now resides, November 16, 1821. He is the eldest child of John and Louisa (Allen) Bauguss, both natives of North Carolina. The father came to this county about 1814, and was a farmer by occupation. He died in 1847 and the mother followed about ten years later. Our subject assisted his parents on the farm and took charge of his father's business at the time of the latter's demise. In 1861 he enlisted in Company A, Forty-eighth Tennessee, and served part of the time as orderly sergeant. At the time of the surrender at Fort Donelson he was captured and taken to Camp Douglas, where he remained for three months. He was afterward discharged from service at Port Hudson and returned to the old homestead where he has been engaged in farming and stock raising ever since. In 1852 he married Miss D. L. Partee, a native of this county, and to them were born five children, only one of whom is living -- John T. Mr. Bauguss is a Democrat in politics and has been magistrate of the Twenty-first District for three terms. He is an attendant and Mrs. Bauguss a member of the Methodist Church. He has also been a member of the Masonic lodge for upward of thirty years.

A. A. BARKER is a successful merchant of Maury County, Tenn., and was born in Wayne County, Ky., August 27, 1849, son of Hugh and Kate (Randall) Barker, natives, respectively, of Kentucky and Alabama. The father was an enterprising farmer, and became the possessor of considerable worldly goods. He departed this life in 1875. The mother is still living, and resides in the "Lone Star State." Our subject spent his early days on his father's farm, and was united in marriage to Miss Rhodes, in August, 1872, and four children were born to their union: Carrie H., Alice B., Myrtle J. and Hugh B. Mr. Barker belongs to the Democratic party, and has been postmaster of Cross Bridges for two years. Mr. and Mrs. Barker are members of the Christian Church, and among the prominent families of Maury County.

WILLIAM A. BARKER, a native of Maury County, born December 3, 1850, son of George Barker. who started out on life's rough track for himself at the age of twenty-one. The father had a limited education, but enough for practical purposes. He was a farmer, a Democrat and a member of the Masonic fraternity. He was also a member of the Baptist Church. In 1840 he married Maria L. Byers, and by her became the father of three children: Nancy, William A. and George D. He died in 1861. The mother of these children was born in Virginia, August 15, 1820, and is the daughter of Anderson and Sarah (Dortch) Byers, natives of North Carolina. They were married there, but afterward moved to Virginia, where they remained for some years. They then moved to Tennessee, locating in Maury County. The mother died in 1861. The paternal grandparents of our subject were Alexander and Margaret (Dodsen) Barker, who were born in North Carolina and Tennessee, respectively, the former in 179l and the latter in 1801. They both lived to be old people, the grandfather dying in 1878 and the grandmother in 1885. Our subject was reared on the farm, and at the age of twenty-eight engaged in the mercantile business at Rock Spring, and is at present engaged in that occupation. He is also a mechanic and a blacksmith. In 1879 he married Mollie Usery, a native of Giles County, Tenn., born July 22, 1861, and the daughter of William L. and Matilda (Wright) Usery. To our subject and wife were born three children: Alfred H., born 1880; Florence, born 1881 and died 1882, and Willie T., born 1883. Our subject has a good sound education, and was a school teacher for some time. He is a Democrat, and he and his brother, George, are in the merchandise business together, the firm being known as the Barker Bros.

REV. GEORGE BECKETT, rector and principal of the Columbia Female Institute and rector of St. Peter's Episcopal Church, was born in Wakefield, Yorkshirc, England, June 8, 1818, and is a son of William P. and Mary (Harrison) Beckett. Our subject was educated in England, attending Queen Elizabeth Grammar School, at Wakefield, and graduated in 1838. In 1840 he immigrated to the United States and located first at Cincinnati, Ohio, where he prepared himself for the Episcopal ministry. He was ordained, in 1843, by Bishop B. B. Smith, D. D., at Louisville, Ky. His first charge was in Hopkinsville, Ky., where he had management of a school. In 1852 he took charge of St. Matthew's Church and Institute, in Jefferson County. Ky., and in the fall of 1866 removed to Columbia, and began conducting the Columbia Female Institute, and has met with good success. He entered on his pastoral duties in St. Peter's Episcopal Church in 1868. In 1844 he married Miss Ann E. Temple, a native of Logan County, Ky., a great-niece of Gen. George Rogers Clark. They have one son--John Temple.

CAPT. JOHN W. BECKETT was born in Marshall County, September 2, 1836. and is the son of Samuel and Rebecca (Swan) Beckett. The father of our subject was born March, 1809, in North Carolina. He came to Tennessee and settled near Lewisburg, and engaged in farming, in which he was very successful. He was elected justice of the peace, which office he held for several years. He was also postmaster for some time. He was a member of the I. O. O. F. and a Democrat in politics. He belonged to the Methodist Episcopal Church South. Our subject received a good practical education in the country schools, and at the age of twenty-one began business for himself. In 1871 he wedded Mrs. Jane W. Bryant, whose former name was Gresham. Mrs. Bryant had by her first husband four children: Sebastian C., born in 1855 and died in 1862: Ralph G., born 1857; Sallie A., born in 1860 and died in 1865, and Arch S., born in 1862. In 1861 Mr. Beckett enlisted in Company C, Ninth Tennessee Regiment, and was elected orderly sergeant at the organization, and at the reorganization was elected first lieutenant and afterward promoted to captain.

CAPT. ALEXANDER W. BECKWITH, an energetic farmer of Maury County, Tenn., was born October 4, 1830, son of Jonathan and Dolly C. (Madison) Beckwith, both natives of Virginia. The father was a physician of Fredericksburg, Va. In 1823 he moved to Lauderdale County, Ala., and engaged in the practice of medicine. His death occurred in 1856. The mother died in 1847. Our subject grew to manhood on the farm, and received a good-education at the St. Joseph College, Nelson County, Ky. At his father's death he took charge of the plantation, and continued to do so up to the time of the late war. In 1861 he enlisted in Company C, Twenty-seventh Alabama Regiment, as first lieutenant, and remained as such until after the battle of Shiloh. He was then made Captain of the company, but at the end of eight months was discharged on account of ill health. He then returned home for a short time, but soon joined Johnston's cavalry company, Roger's command, remaining with them about six months, and then on account of his bad health returned home, where he remained until the close of the war. He then began farming on his plantation, but in 1866 he moved to Mississippi and remained there until 1874, when he removed to his present place, where he has remained ever since, steadily engaged in farming and stock raising. November 14, 1866, he wedded Mary Mason, a native of Alabama, and to them were born five children, only two of whom are living, viz.: Alexander W. and Jonathan. Mr. Beckwith is a Democrat in politics, and himself and family are leading members of the Methodist Church.

WILLIAM M. BIDDLE, of Columbia, Tenn., and native of the city, was born November 1, 1847, son of Daniel M. and Mary (Pride) Biddle, who were born in Sumner and Robertson Counties, Tenn., respectively. Our subject was reared in Sumner County, where he secured a good education in the common branches, and at the age of twenty years became a disciple of Æsculapius, with the view of making medicine a profession, and graduated from the medical department of the University of Nashville in 1870. He removed to Arkansas, where he practiced about four years and then returned to Nashville and studied the homeopathic system of medicine under Dr. J. P. Dake. In 1877 Dr. Biddle came to Columbia, where he has since practiced homeopathy with extraordinary success. June 15, 1871, his marriage with Miss Julia Rogers was consummated. She was born in Sumner County, and has borne her husband one son and three daughters. The family are members of the Episcopal Church. The Doctor is a Democrat and a member of the State Medical Society of Homeopathy.

RUFUS K. BLACKMAN (deceased) was born in Tennessee October 9, 1826, son of Bennett and Ann (Chinton) Blackman, both of whom were natives of North Carolina. The father moved from North Carolina to Tennessee about 1790. He was an extensive farmer and died in 1888. The mother died in 1849. Our subject was reared on the farm and received his education in the district schools. At the age of eighteen he began operating the farm of his widowed mother, and followed farming and stock raising on the old homestead place up to the time of his demise, which occurred August 10, 1883. He was a leading member of the Christian Church, and was classed among the enterprising and successful business men of the county. He was extensively engaged in raising and breeding fine stock. He also operated a saw and grist-mill in this county for many years. He was always strictly exact in his business transactions, and was a moral, upright citizen. In 185I he wedded Eliza Eichbaum, a native of Davidson County, Tenn., and daughter of William and Catherine (Stevens) Eichbaum, natives, respectively, of Ireland and Massachusetts. The father immigrated to this country about 1824. and married soon after. His wife was one of the first educators of Nashville, and was for many years a teacher in the Nashville Female Academy. Her death occurred about 1860. The father died in 1871. By her union with our subject Mrs. Eliza W. Blackman became the mother of nine children, all of whom are living: Bennett, Ada L., Mary, Willie, Anna, Edwin, Louisa, Charlie and Albert. Mrs. Blackman and family are leading members of the Christian Church, and are classed among the leading families of the county.

JOHN H. BLAIR, merchant, of Kedron, Maury County, was born January 13, 1844, within one mile of where he now resides, and is one of seven, children born to Thomas W. and Catherine C. (Neely) Blair, both natives of Tennessee. The father was from the family of George D. Blair, who was one of the early settlers of this county. Thomas W. died in l854. The mother is still living at the advanced age of seventy-four. Our subject passed his youth in assisting on the farm and in acquiring a fair education in the common schools. At the age of seventeen he enlisted in Company B, Eleventh Tennessee Cavalry, and served as a high private with the above company until the close of the war. He then returned home and began clerking in the mercantile business with different parties until 1882, when he established his present business at Kedron, and controls the leading trade in that town and vicinity. October 23, 1872, he wedded Miss Ella Blanton, a native of this county, and to this union were born six children, only four of whom are living, viz.: Leonidas O., Julia M., Sue Ella and Ada V. Mr. Blair is a Democrat in politics, and himself an attendant, and family members of the Methodist Church.

REV. JOHN G. BOLTON, a minister of the Methodist Episcopal Church South, was born in Humphreys County, Tenn., February 29, 1841, and February 7, 1868, was united in marriage to Hattie J. Williams and became the father of four children: Samuel I., Cordelia M., Ida S. and Pattie R. Rev. Bolton enlisted as a private in the late war in May, 1861, in Company A, Eleventh Tennessee Infantry, and served in this capacity through the war, also acting as chaplin of the Fiftieth Tennessee Regiment. He was captured the 7th of November, 1864, and remained in prison two months at Johnson's Island. He is a strong supporter of Democratic principles and is a Knight Templar and belongs to the K. of H. He has been an active member of the Tennessee Conference for twenty-seven years. His parents, William T. and Theresa (Warren) Bolton, were both born in the State of Tennessee. The father was a moral, honest man, and departed this life June 3, 1885. The mother's death occurred on the 17th of October, 1863. Both were earnest members of the Methodist Episcopal Church at the time of their deaths.

ANDREW T. BOYD is a son of James Boyd, whose father was a soldier under Gens. George Washington and Nathaniel Greene during the Revolutionary war, and was in the battles of Monmouth and King's Mountain and served through the war. James Boyd was born in Davidson County, Tenn., and there married Elizabeth Henderson, a native of North Carolina. The father was a tiller of the soil and departed this life in 1825. The mother was a member of the Presbyterian Church, and died in 1860. Andrew T. Boyd began studying' medicine and took a course of lectures at Lexington, Ky. He afterward attended the University of Philadelphia, Penn. He practiced his profession successfully for about twenty years, and then retired from active duties. In 1879 he married Miss L. Curthirell. In the late war he was surgeon in the Forty-eighth Tennessee Regiment for one year. He is now a Democrat, though formerly a Whig, and belongs to the Masonic fraternity, Royal Arch Degree.

WILLIAM BRANCH'S birth occurred in Bedford County, Va., May 6, 1812, son of James and Martha (Minor)Branch, who were horn in Bedford County and Botetourt County, Va., in 1766 and 1770, respectively. They were married in 1792, and became the parents of ten children, our subject being the youngest of the family, They came to Tennessee about 1814, and accumulated considerable means. The father died in 1844, and the mother in 1839. At the age of twenty-one William M. began farming for himself, and, January 28, 1841, married Mary Ann Uzzell, who was born in Maury County, July 13, 1823, and daughter of Elisha and Ann (Cohee) Uzzell. Mr. and Mrs. Branch are the parents of the following children: Frances T., born in 1841; John T., born in 1843; Martha E., born in 1845; Nancy A., born in 1848; Mary S., born in 1850: Laura S., born in 1852; Sarah E., born in 1854; Willie T., born in 1857; Joseph H., born in 1859, and Ruth A., born in 1862. Mr. Branch is a Democrat and Mason, and is considered a wide-awake and prosperous citizen of the county. He and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church South.

JOHN B. BROOKS, merchant, was born in Arkansas, November 1, 1854 and is a son of William and Mary (Dodson) Brooks, who were native Tennesseeans. William Brooks was an enterprising agriculturist and is now residing in Maury County. The mother was a member of the Methodist Church and died in that faith in April, 1862. John B. received a somewhat limited education in the common schools, but step by step has climbed the ladder of success until he has accumulated considerable property. December 9, 1879, he was united in marriage to Miss Roxanna Akin, daughter of Anderson Akin, a prominent citizen of Maury County. To them were born two children, both of whom are dead. Mr. Brooks supports the principles of Republicanism, and he and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church and are good citizens and neighbors.

WILLIAM R. BROWN, an old and prominent citizen of Neapolis, Maury Co., Tenn., was born in this county, October 15, 1882, and is a son of Solomon and Elizabeth (Sanders) Brown, both of whom were natives of South Carolina. The father was one of the early settlers of this county and followed the vocation of farming. He died about two years after immigrating here from South Carolina. The mother's death occurred in 1864, at the unusual age of eighty-one years. Our subject passed his youthful days on the farm and secured a fair practical education at the common schools. At the age of sixteen he served an apprenticeship at wagon-making and followed that business for twelve or fifteen years. In 1852 he began merchandising at Neapolis and was engaged in this business until the beginning of the war. In 1861 he enlisted in Company A, Forty-eighth Tennessee, and served as a sergeant about one year. Being a mechanic he was detailed boss of brigade shops and was afterward made boss of the division shop, and remained as such until the close of the war. He then returned to Neapolis and resumed his former business. In 1881 he removed to his farm, on which he lived one year, then built his present house and shop, where he has been engaged in wagon-making and general repairing. In 1869 he wedded Elizabeth Truelove, a native of this county, who died in 1882,. They have four children born to this union, only two of whom are living: Willie E. and Lillie. Mr. Brown is a Democrat and an attendant of the Methodist Church.

W. HUGH BROWN, farmer, was born in Maury County, Tenn., December 11, 1843, and is the eldest son of James W. and Jenette M. (Dobbin) Brown, natives, respectively, of North Carolina and Tennessee. The father came to Maury County about 1810 with his father, Hon. Col. Hugh Brown, of North Carolina, and his brother, Rev. Duncan Brown, who was a well-known preacher of this county. James W. Brown followed the occupation of a farmer to a considerable extent and was very successful. He died June 1, 1885. The mother still survives him, and is living with her son, John S. Brown, on the old homestead. Our subject was reared on the farm and received a good practical education. In 1861, at the age of seventeen, he enlisted in the Spring Hill Company, Third Tennessee Regiment, under the command of Capt. Pointer. He remained with the above company about six months and then joined the cavalry command and remained with this company until the close of the war. He then returned to this county and began farming on his father's tract. In 1870 he removed to his present farm, where he has been steadily engaged in farming and stock raising ever since. In 1870 he wedded Laura B. Cheairs. a native of this county, and to this union was born one child, Nora. Mrs. Laura Brown is the daughter of Col. Martin T. and Martha (Bond) Cheairs. The father was born in North Carolina, May 19, 1804, and is the son of Nathaniel and Sarah (Rush) Cheairs, natives, respectively of North Carolina and Maryland, Nathaniel died in 1846 and his wife followed in 1858. Martin T. Cheairs was reared on the farm and secured but a limited education. At the age of thirty-four he went into the mercantile business with his brother, John Cheairs, at Spring Hill. Eleven years from that time he gave up the mercantile business and engaged in farming and stock raising. In 1837 he was married and became the father of nine children, only three of whom are living, viz.: Mary F., Nannie R. and Laura B., the wife of our subject. Mr. Brown is a Democrat, and himself and family are members of the Old School Presbyterian Church.

ANDREW D. BRYANT, one of Maury County's most enterprising citizens, was born in Franklin County, North Carolina, March 14, 1825, and is the son of John F. and Sarah W. (Amis) Bryant, who were born in 1790 and 1794, respectively. The father, John F., was the son of Roland and Mary (Hunt) Bryant, and Roland was the son of William Bryant, who was born in Ireland, John F. was a successful farmer, was married in 1814, and was the father of ten children. He died December 6, 1857, and his wife followed him to the grave in 1870. Our subject was reared on a farm and obtained a limited education in the country schools, and followed farming for eight years, in Dallas County, Ark. He then moved to Maury County, Tenn., where he now resides, engaged in farming and stock raising, in which he has been quite successful. He was married, January 4, 1852, to Sarah Hill, a native of Tennessee, born in June, 1828, and the ,laughter of Isaac and Margaret (Steele) Hill. Isaac Hill was born in North Carolina, in 1800, and died in Marshall County, Tenn., in 1840. To our subject and wife were born eight children: James R., born 1854; Isaac H., born 1856; John F., born 1857; William T., born 1859; Ida R., born 1861; Andrew D., born 1863; Patrick H., born 1866, and Lizzie H., born 1869. Mr. Bryant has given his children a good education and has reason to be proud of them. In 1874 he was engaged in building two miles of railroad, and also built switch and station houses. In 1877 he engaged in the saw and grist-mill business. He took an active part in the Confederate service during the late war, enlisting in Company H, Fifty-third Regiment, and served two years. He was first lieutenant, and his captain being wounded at Fort Donelson, Mr. Bryant took his place as captain. Our subject was captured and taken to Indianapolis, Johnson's Island, Camp Chase and at Vicksburg, where he was exchanged. He is an enterprising and successful farmer and stock raiser, and is highly spoken of by his many friends.

THOMAS H. BRYANT is a native of Maury County, Tenn., and was born August 15, 1839, and was reared on a farm. In 1861 he enlisted in Company F, Third Tennessee Regiment, under Col. J.C. Brown. He was captured at the fall of Fort Donelson and taken to Camp Douglas, where he was imprisoned seven months. He was then exchanged at Vicksburg and immediately rejoined the army. He participated in many battles and was wounded and captured at Raymond, Miss. After his release he again joined his command, stationed at Meridian, Miss. He was disabled there and came home on furlough, and was captured and paroled near the first of 1864. June 4, 1866, he wedded Emma J. Howard, born February 20, 1847, in Maury County. They have four children: James H., Hattie W., Frank L. and Bessie M. Mr. and Mrs. Bryant are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church South and he belongs to the Democratic party. His parents, Edward and Elizabeth (Amis) Bryant, were both born in Granville County, N. C., in 1778 and 1797, respectively. The father was a farmer and miller. He was a soldier in the war of 1812 and was a Whig in politics. He died in 1867 or 1868, and the mother about 1885.

JOHN S. CALDWELL, farmer, was born in Maury County, Tenn., February, 1811, and is the son of William H., and Elizabeth (Stanfield) Caldwell, both natives of Virginia. The father came from Virginia to this county in 1806. He was a farmer and secured a very comfortable competency. His death occurred in October, 1854. The mother died in April, l852. Our subject was reared on the farm and was one of the many old settlers who received their education in the rude log schoolhouses of a former day. At the age of twenty-seven he began farming for himself on Carter Creek, where he remained for five years. He subsequently purchased a farm on Bear Creek and after living there sixteen years removed to his present place, where he has been actively engaged in farming and stock raising ever since. November, 1889, he married Sarah A. Jameson, a native of this county. To them were born eight children seven of whom are living: Mary E., Robina C., Ellen J. (deceased), Thomas J., John E., Emily O., Robert C. and Dora M. Mr. Caldwell is a Democrat in politics. and himself and family are leading members of the Christian Church. He is a Mason of good standing and is one of Maury County's oldest and most respected citizens.

WILLIE G. CECIL, a progressive young farmer of Maury County, Tenn., was born June 18. 1861, and is one of six children born to the marriage of James H. Cecil and Julia Ingram. James Cecil was born in Hanover County, Va., in July, 1812, and came to Tennessee in 1841 locating on a farm in the Thirteenth District of Maury County, where he lived at the time of his death in 1888. He was strictly honest in his business transactions and was a warm advocate of the cause of temperance. His wife was born in Lebanon, Ky., in 1833. She was a member of the Roman Catholic Church, and her husband belonged to the Methodist Episcopal Church South. Willie G. Cecil attended the Maury County common schools, and entered St. Mary's Agricultural College at Lebanon, Ky., in September, 1876, where he completed his course and graduated with honor in June, 1878. He then returned home and has since been engaged in farming. In his political views he is a stanch Democrat and gives his support to that party on all occasions.

NATHANIEL B. CHEAIRS, the popular sheriff of Maury County, Term, was born in the county at Spring Hill, September 8, 1848. He secured a good education in the Washington Lee University at Lexington, Va., and at the age of nineteen became salesman in a wholesale merchandise establishment in Nashville, continuing one and a half years. He then began farming and stock trading at Spring Hill, but in August, 1884, was elected to the office of sheriff of the county, which he has filled faithfully and well to the present time. He is a Democrat of a progressive type and is a member of the K. of H. One son, John M., is the result of his marriage to Miss Annie Alexander, which occurred in October, 1875. His parents, John W. and Susan T. (Pointer) Cheairs, were born in North Carolina and Virginia, respectively. The father was a merchant and farmer by occupation and followed the former occupation in New Orleans and later engaged in both enterprises at Spring Hill, Tenn. He died there in January, 1873, followed by his widow in April, 1874.

OWEN P. CHEEK, one of Maury County's most enterprising citizens, was born May 7, 1831, son of John L. and Elizabeth Cheek. The father was born in North Carolina, October, 1801, and came to Tennessee with his parents when quite young. He began business for himself at the age of twenty-one as a farmer, and by this occupation he accumulated considerable means. He was married and became the father of a large family. His death occurred in 1873. The mother was born in Maury County March, 1815, and is an exemplary Christian, she is still living at the old homestead. Our subject received a limited education, although enough for all practical purposes. August 17, 1854, he wedded Susan Huey, a native of Maury County, Tenn., born February 17, 1838, and the daughter of William G. and Susan (Bradley) Huey. By this marriage our subject became the father of ten children; Eliza J., Susan E., William L., Calvin B., James M., Ida L., John T., Joseph E. J., Lises E. and one who died unnamed. The mother of these children is a worthy member of the Missionary Baptist Church, and has many warm friends. In 1861 our subject enlisted in Company H, Forty-eighth Regiment Tennessee Infantry, and was sworn in at Nashville. He was captured at Fort Henry and taken to Chicago where he was imprisoned for seven months. He was then exchanged and sent to his command at Vicksburg. He was all through the war and was a brave and gallant soldier. He is a Democrat and is justly recognized as an upright, honest citizen.

NIMROD P. CHEEK, a prominent farmer of Maury County, was born April 22, 1857, and is the son of John L. and Elizabeth Cheek. For further particulars of parents see sketch of Owen P. Cheek. Our subject began business for himself in 1874 as a farmer, and has made that his principal occupation ever since. In 1876 he was united in marriage to Cornelia C. Gilliam, a native of Maury County, born June 19, 1861, and the daughter of Harrison O. and Mary A. (Pinkston) Gilliam, both natives of Tennessee. The father was born in Tennessee, and was one of Maury County's most successful farmers. He was a member of the Christian Church, as also was his wife. To our subject and wife were born an interesting family of four children: John W. H., born April 28, 1877; Huston N., born August 6, 1880; Arthur B., born August 11, 1882, and C. L., born September 7, 1884. Mr. Cheek is in good circumstances, is a Democrat and he and wife are members of the Christian Church.

GEORGE CHILDRESS, the subject of this sketch, a son of Adrian D. and Nancy B (McGuire) Childress, was born at Spring Hill, Maury County, May 5, 1849. The parents, who also were natives of Maury County, removed to Lawrence County in 1850, where the father now resides, the mother having died in January, 1884. George was reared and re- ceived an old field school education in Lawrence County. At the age of eighteen he secured a clerkship in his native town with Mr. J. B. Stephenson, where he remained ten months, coming to Columbia in October, 1868, and secured a clerkship in the well-known house of Harris, Frierson & Co. Upon the organization of the First National Bank of Columbia he was chosen as book-keeper, which position was retained till 1872, when he engaged in general insurance. In 1874 he was elected secretary and treasurer of the Duck River Val- ley Railroad Company, and was later appointed superintendent, which positions he held for about eight years. In 1882 he was principal in the movement which resulted in the organization of the Second National Bank of Columbia, of which he has ever since been the cashier. In 1883 he was appointed clerk and master of chancery court, which office he managesthrough his efficient deputy, I. S. Orman. In 1876 he married Annette Estelle Kuhn, daughter of Edward Kuhn, who was several times mayor of Columbia, and one of the most enterprising men of the county. They have two daughters. He is a Democrat in politics. He and wife are strong believers in the doctrines of the Methodist Episcopal Church South.

ALLEN B. CHURCH, senior member of the firm of Church & Jack, dealers in dry goods, groceries, hardware and general merchandise, was born in this county October 16, 1846, and is a son of Robert C. and Lucy (Fitzgerald) Church, natives, respectively, of North Carolina and Tennessee. The father was a tiller of the soil and was very successful in that occupation He died about 1871 The mother is still living and resident at the old homestead. Our subject received a good common education and remained with his parents on the farm until he was twenty-one years of age. Previous to this, at the age of eighteen, he enlisted in Company E, Ninth Tennessee Regiment, and served as a high private with the above company for five months. Then on account of sickness he returned home, and remained there until the close of the war. He then began farming, and soon removed to a farm on Snow Creek, where he remained one year. He then moved to Leiper Creek. and continued farming. In 1879 tie began the mercantile bus- iness at Theta as a partner of Mr. Jack, and remained there about three years. In 1880 they established their business at Carter Creek, where they are at present. In 1866 he married Emily Oakley, a native of this county, and seven children were born to this union: Stephen R., Oatey, Arthur, Jennette, Tolilha, Bessie, and an infant not named. Mr. Church is a Democrat in politics. and his family are members of the Presbyterian Church.

WILLIAM J. COCHRAN, one of Maury County's most highly respected citizens, was born in this county June 7, 1811, son of James and Jane (Miligan) Cochran. The father was born in North Carolina May 2, 1781, and immigrated to Georgia when a young man afterward living in Tennessee for a few years. He went back to Georgia, where he was married, after which he came back to Tennessee, and located in Maury County. He died June 30. 1859. He was in the war of 1812 and was a brave soldier. The mother died May 15, 1864. Our subject grew to manhood on the farm, and at the age of twenty-one began business for himself as a farmer. August 14, 1834, he wedded Maria R. Dodson, and to them were born these children: David J., born 1836; James Brooks, born 1838; Ascenith J., born 1844; William H., and an infant not named. Our subject received a rather limited education, but enough for all practical purposes. He is a Democrat, and he and wife are members of the Presbyterian Church.

WILLIAM O. COFFEE, M.D., of Columbia, was born in Ballard County, Ky., in 1859 and after the usual common school training he obtained his literary and medical education in St. Louis, Mo., and graduated from the Missouri Medical College of that city in 1880. He first began practicing in the blue-grass State, and later in Illinois, Missouri, Indiana, Kansas, New York, Pennsylvania, and in May, 1885, came to Tennessee, locating first in Lebanon, and three months later came to Columbia, where his fallmr, William Coffee, was known, and his grandfather, Nathan Coffee, had been a well known and prosperous business man. William O. has acquired a good practice in the short time he has been in Columbia. He is a member of the Kentucky, Illinois, Missouri, and King's County (N. Y.), Medical Societies, and was one time a member of the American Medical Association. He is a Democrat in politics and a member of the K. of H. fraternity.

JOSEPH M. COFFEY is considered one of the prosperous citizens of Maury County, Tenn. He was born March 23, 1844, son of Hugh W. and Jennie (Gragg) Coffey, and was reared on a farm. At the breaking-out of the war he enlisted in Company F, Forty- eighth Tennessee Infantry, Quarles brigade, and was an active participant in many of the bloodiest battles of the war. He was captured in Nashville and taken to Camp Douglas, where he was imprisoned about four months, and from that time until the close of the war he was a prisoner at Point Lookout, Md. He returned home June 30, 1865, and immediately began tilling the soil. November 30, 1876, he married Maggie J. Coker, who was born in Missouri November 2, 1858, daughter of John M. and Sallie A. (Wilkes) Coker. Hugh M., born in 1877; Roy B., born in 1880; Ollie F., born in 1881; Sallie E., born in 1883, and Shirley E., born in 1886, are the children born to Mr. and Mrs. Coffey's union. They are members of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church, and Mr. Coffey is a Democrat, and an energetic and successful farmer.

WILLIAM R. CONNER, a successful agriculturist of Maury County, Tenn., was born in Davidson County, Tenn., May 28, 1827. He obtained a practical education, and started in life with no capital save his hands and unbounded energy. He has been quite prosperous in his business undertakings, and is now a well-to-do "tiller of the soil." June 4, 1852, he led to the hymeneal altar Miss Martha Blocker, daughter of Elijah Blocker, of Maury County. Three children blessed their union, these two now living: India B. (wife of Thomas S. Whiteside), and Addie B. (wife of E. A. Pogue). Mr. Conner was opposed to the late war, and accordingly refrained from participating in it. He is a stanch supporter of Republican principles, and belongs to the Masonic fraternity. He is a member of the Christian Church, and is a son of Alfred and Sidney (Kennedy) Conner, who were born in North Carolina. The father was a farmer by occupation, and died in 1843. The mother died in 1873.

HORACE S. COOPER, one of the managers of the Columbia Herald, was born in Bedford County, Tenn., in April, 1846, and is a son of Edwin and Mary (Stephens) Cooper, who are natives, respectively, of Williamson County, Tenn., and Virginia. Matthew D. Cooper, our subject's grandfather, moved to Maury County as early as, or prior to, 1830, and was a successful cotton dealer and merchant and a prominent Mason. His death oc- curred in Columbia in 1878, at the advanced age of eighty eight years. Horace S. Cooper was raised in his native county, and made his home with his parents until eighteen years of age. He then entered Yale College, from which he graduated, with the degree of A. B., in 1868. He began preparing himself for the profession of law, and began practicing at Shelbyville, Tenn., in 1872, continuing until 1879, when he accepted the position as deputy clerk and master of the chancery court, and was afterward appointed clerk and master, and filled the position faithfullly and efficiently until 1883, when he resigned to resume the practice of law and manage his large farm. He makes a specialty of raising and selling fine stock, and is a successful financier. May 1, 1885, he accepted his position with the Herald, and has contributed largely to the success of this well-known paper.

JAMES C. COOPER is a son of Robert and Catharine Cooper. and was born in Maury County, Tenn., November 17, 1826, being the fifth of their fifteen children. He was a soldier in the Mexican war, serving in Company C, First Tennessee Cavalry, and participated in the battle of Vera Cruz and several minor engagements. In 1861 he enlisted in Company C, Forty-eighth Tennessee Volunteer infantry, and was in the following engagements: Perryville, Chickamauga, Richmond, and numerous skirmishes. He was twice wounded. September 12, 1856, ha was married to Miss Emarinthy C. Kinzer, and to them were born the following eight children; John T. (deceased), Albert C., James H., William D., George Lee, Robert Burns, Anna B. and Callie D. Mr. Cooper is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church South, and an earnest worker in that church. Politically he has been a life-long Democrat, and was constable of the Eleventh District for a period of seven years, and discharged the duties of that office in an efficient manner. He belongs to the Presbyterian Church. His father and mother were natives of the "Palmetto State" and Tennessee, born in 1790 and 1799, respectively. The father was a prosperous farmer, and lived a long and useful life. Our subject's maternal grandmother was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church for eighty years, and lived to be about one hundred years old.

HENRY S. COX, physician of Columbia, Tenn., is a son of John and Martha C. (Evans) Cox, the father being a successful stock raiser and farmer of the county. He reared his family in Maury County, and in 1863 was shot by a Federal soldier at his home. The mother died prior to the war. Henry S. attended the Jackson College at Columbia, and when twenty years old became a disciple of Æsculapius, studying under the direction of Dr. W. G. J. Hunter. He then attended the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, and graduated as an M.D. in 1860. He enlisted as first surgeon of the First Arkansas Sharpshooters, and later served with Gen. A. M. Stovall as surgeon of the brigade. Since the war he has resided in Columbia, where he has built up a fine practice. In 1866, he was married to Rebecca Marlin, by whom he is the father of three children: John, Ella and Martin S. The Doctor was an old line Whig until that party ceased to exist, and since that time has been a Democrat, but has never aspired to political prominence, and has devoted his energies and talents strictly to his profession.

STEPHEN S. CRAIG was born in the Fourth District of Maury County December 14, 1883, was reared on the farm and owing to circumstances his education was rather limited. January 13, 1859, he wedded Mary A. Sharber, a native of Rutherford County, Tenn., born January 13, 1837, and the daughter of John and Nancy Sharber. To our subject and wife were born nine children: Robert J., born 1859: John W. S., born in 1861, and died in 1882: James C. born in 1865; Nancy E., born in 1808: Lanella R., born in 1869; Mary L. B., born in 1872; Wallace J., born in 1873: L. J., born in 1876; Virgie M., born in 1878, and Joseph A. T., born in 1881. Mr. Craig is a successful farmer and also a wheelwright. During the late war he enlisted in Company C, Forty-eighth Tennessee Regiment of Infantry. He was captured and taken to Nashvile, where he was paroled in 1865. He was elected magistrate in the Fourth District of Maury County March, 1882, and holds that office at the present time in an able and efficient manner. Himself and family are members of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church, His parents, Robert R. and Rachel (Miles) Craig, were both natives of South Carolina, the former born December 15, 1786, and the latter December 8, 1795. The father was married in South Carolina and came to Tennessee soon after, locating in Franklin County, where he engaged in farming for three years. He then moved to Maury County and continued farming, in which he was quite successful. He was in the war of 1812 and was a gallant soldier. He died November 18, 1854, The mother was a member of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church for nearly forty years and was an earnest worker in the cause of Christianity.
JAMES F. CRAIG, a native of Tennessee and well-to-do farmer, was born in Maury County May 1. 1836. His father, Robert Craig, was a native of North Carolina, where he married Mary Sellers, also of that, state, and came to Tennessee. He now resides in Maury County and is a widower, his wife having died October 4. 1864. Our subject is a graduate of Erskine College, South Carolina. He took an active part in the late war, serving in Company B, Thirty-second Mississippi Infantry, from March, 1862, to March, 1864. At that time he was transferred to the Third Tennessee and served in this capacity until the close of the war. He is a member of the Old School Presbyterian Church, and is a strong Democrat in politics.
THOMPSON S. CRAIG, was born in the Sixth District of Maury County May 9, 1849, son of Nathaniel H. and Hattie (Scott) Craig. The father was born in North Carolina December 25, 1807. He was reared on the farm and was married in 1828 and became the father of seven children. His death occurred in January, 1886. He was the son of John and Lucinda Craig. The mother of our subject was born in Tennessee December 14, 1807, and died about 1872. She was the daughter of Samuel and Sarah Scott, natives of Ireland. Our subject passed his early life on the farm, and began business for himself at the age of twenty-three as a farmer. February 22, 1877, he wedded Ella Cline, a native of Canada, born January 2, 1858, and the daughter of John L. and Augusta (Simons) Cline. To our subject and wife were born four children: Emmit P., born in 1878; John L., born in 1882; Ruby, born in 1883, and Samuel S., born in 1885. Mrs. Craig is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and is a warm advocate of Christianity. Mr. Craig is a Democrat, and a member of the Masonic fraternity. He is justly recognized by all as an honest, upright young man.

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Frank D. "Denny" Thomas, Volunteer for Maury County

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