McMinn County, Tennessee Genealogy and History
Biographies
BAYLESS, John Walker
Banker; born Jonesboro, Tenn., July 5, 1854; English and Irish descent; son of Jesse M. and Susannah (Walker) Bayless; graduated from Grant University, Chattanooga, Tenn., with degree of A.B.; became a merchant in early life; former mayor of Athens, Tenn., and also one time member of the board of aldermen of that city; now president of Athens Bank and Trust Co.; vice-president of Athens Table and Mfg. Co., and Ice and Cold Storage Co.; manager and president of Bayless Hardware Co.; married Agnes Byington Sept. 13, 1881; Democrat. [Source: Who's Who in Tennessee, Memphis: Paul & Douglass Co., Publishers, 1911; Tr. by KM]
BEARD, Caughey Alfred
Born Henry County, Ala., March 10, 1870; son of James R. and Mary Jane (Johnson) Beard; Scotch descent; educated Southern University, Greensboro, Ala.; married Mrs. Martha E. Rose Aug. 24, 1905; member K.A. Frat; Mayor of Athens, Tenn., from July 28, 1907-09; for two years served in Troop "B," N.G.S.T.; two years Chaplain with rank of First Lieutenant in First Squadron Tenn. Cavalry on Maj. W.J. Bass' staff; now Chaplain of Third Tenn. Infantry; member of Holston conference of M.E. church, South; served as pastor of the M.E. church, South, in Athens, Tenn., for four years, from 1898-1902; as pastor of the Highland Park Methodist Episcopal church, South, in Chattanooga, Tenn., from 1902-1905; has been a member of the National Guard of Tenn. for five years as stated above; interested in real estate, farming and banking. [Source: Who's Who in Tennessee, Memphis: Paul & Douglass Co., Publishers, 1911; Tr. by KM]
BEAVER, Charles Oliver
Attorney; born Athens, (McMinn Co) Tenn., May 20, 1881; son Hiram Oliver and Julia (Fellers) Beaver; English descent; educated Cumberland University, graduate of same; educated University of Chattanooga law department 1904; admitted to bar in same year; assistant county court clerk Hamilton Co. 1900-04; entered partnership in law with C.C. Abernathy in 1910; member I.O.O.F.; was elected to the office of Auditor of the City of Chattanooga, Tenn., Oct., 1910. [Source: Who's Who in Tennessee, Memphis: Paul & Douglass Co., Publishers, 1911; Tr. by KM]
BOLTON, David Alexander
Professor of Mathematics in the University of Chattanooga, in the Athens school; born Washington Co., Tenn., near Washington College, Jan. 1, 1847; German, Scotch, Irish descent; son of Joseph and Saraphina (Willett) Bolton; his father was a farmer; paternal grandfather David Bolton, paternal grandmother Mary (Byerley) Bolton, maternal grandfather Joseph Willett, maternal grandmother Susan (Stout) Willett; educated Laurel Hill Academy, Washington Co., Tenn. and East Tennessee Wesleyan University, Athens, Tenn.; graduated East Tennessee Wesleyan University with degree of A.B. June 19, 1872, the degree of A.M. was later conferred; began life on the farm in Washington Co., Tenn.; in Oct., 1863, went to Indiana, and enlisted in the Federal army in 1864; participated in the battle of Nashville; was private in the Twenty-Fifth Indiana Battery or Light Artillery, U.S.A. July 1864-5; member of Methodist church; married Ann Elizabeth Hornsby June 19, 1872; has been Professor of Mathematics in University of Chattanooga for 38 years – the university was first known as East Tennessee Wesleyan then Grant University, and the University of Chattanooga, the present name, with department: The Athens School, of Athens, Tenn.; served from 1889-92 in Chattanooga, Tenn. [Source: Who's Who in Tennessee, Memphis: Paul & Douglass Co., Publishers, 1911; Tr. by KM]
BOONE, George W.
A self-made and very successful and prosperous man, George W. Boone, of near Craig, Routt county, furnishes in his career a stirring tribute to the value of self-reliance and persevering industry, and illustrates forcibly what it is possible for these qualities to accomplish in such a fruitful field for effort as Colorado. He is a native of McMinn county, Tennessee, born on July 10, 1861. The Civil war, which was then already in progress, left that portion of the country with all its industries paralyzed, its commercial forces stagnant and its people without the means to resuscitate and revitalize its creative and productive energies at once. It was not possible therefore for him to secure much of an education, as family necessities demanded the utmost work of every able hand, and he had therefore only a few terms of short duration at the district schools, and these were irregular. Until he reached his nineteenth ear he remained at home and assisted his father on the farm. Then, seeking a better outlook for himself, he made several trips to different parts of the West, in the hope of finding a suitable location for the employment of his energies to his own advantage. In 1885, he took up his residence near Rawlins, Wyoming, where he found employment as stock tender for the Overland Stage Company. The next year he came to Colorado and homesteaded a portion of his present ranch, purchasing since one hundred and eighty acres additional, so that his ranch now comprises three hundred and forty acres. While the land at the time was wholly wild and unimproved, he was not deterred from the expectation of securing good results from continued effort, and he went to work with a will to make his property habitable by erecting a dwelling and other necessary buildings, and by reducing the land to productiveness and increasing fertility. He has so far succeeded that a considerable acreage brings him good annual crops of hay, grain, vegetables and small fruits, and he has a main reliance in a large cattle industry which thrives on the place. While taking an active and helpful interest in public local affairs, and withholding no effort of his needed to promote good enterprises for the welfare of his community, he is independent in politics. On June 6, 1889, he united in marriage with Miss Margaret Walker, a native of Georgia. Mr. Boone's parents were Allen and Anna (Hardy) Boone, natives of North Carolina, who became early residents of Tennessee and passed the remainder of their lives there, the father dying in that state in 1885, and the mother being still a resident thereof. Fourteen children were born to them, five of whom died. The nine living are Thomas, James, John, Robert, George W., Susan, Martha, Mary and Julia. The father was an extensive farmer and stood well in his community. [Source: Progressive Men of Western Colorado, Publ 1905. Tr. by KM]
BRITIAN, George W.
This gentleman is the son of John and Catherine (Hensley) Britain, and was born in McMinn county, Tenn., June 20, 1827. His parents were natives of that State. His father was a soldier of the war of 1812, and his grandfather was a soldier in the Revolutionary war. In 1836 his parents moved to Greene county, Mo., where his mother died in 1837, and in 1838 his father moved to Bates county, Mo. In 1840 his father died, while on a trip back to this county, so George was left an orphan at the age of thirteen years. The children were brought back to this county, and George was bound out to Royal Hazelton, then of Brookline township. When twenty-one years of age he was offered eighty acres of land for one hundred dollars, which he took, and upon which he has since resided. He now owns over fourteen hundred acres of land, besides giving a thousand acres to his children. He is next to the largest farmer in the county, and the largest tax-payer in Pond Creek township. He is a liberal, enterprising citizen, and his hand is every ready to help the deserving. Starting in life as a "bound-boy," his rise to wealth, position, and honorable and useful citizenship is almost without a parallel, and is a fine example to those who have energy and determination. During the war he served for a years in Capt. Redfearn's company of militia. He has been a member of the Methodist church for over thirty years. Mr. Britain was married in 1849 to Miss Betsy Ann, daughter of Alexander and Margaret Bailey, of this county, formerly of Tennessee. Their union has been blest with nine children, eight of whom are living, viz.: Marcus F., John W., Eli H., Melissa A., James A., Sarah E., Albert A., and Amanda B. [Green County, Missouri; St. Louis, Western Historical Company (1883). tr by GT Team]
CANTRELL, Alexander M.
A well-to-do farmer and stockman of Webster County, Mo., was born in McMinn County, Tenn., December 4, 1836, being a son of Gabriel and Nancy (Smith) Cantrell, both of whom were Tennesseans by birth. The father was a teacher by profession, and served several years as sheriff of McMinn County, and died there in 1849. In 1853 his widow and family moved to Missouri, locating in Dade County, and two years later in Webster County, settling on what is known as Cantrell's Creek. Alexander M. remained with his mother until about twenty-five years of age, and in November, 1861, he enlisted at Rolla in Col. Phelps' regiment for six months, and at the end of that time went to Illinois, where he was engaged in farming for three years. In July, 1862, he was married, in Webster County, to Miss Harriet Manry, who was a daughter of Henry Manry, of Alabama. He became a resident of Webster County in 1860, and is now deceased. Mrs. Cantrell was born in Tennessee. In October, 1867, they moved back to Missouri, and purchased their present farm of 360 acres, which was then in a very wild state. About half of his farm consists of bottom land, and 200 acres are cleared and under cultivation, and furnished with excellent buildings. He also has another tract of 119 acres well improved. He is a member of the Agricultural Wheel, and has always supported the principles of the Republican party. His children's names are as follows: Elmina, wife of Alexander Hall; Hezekiah, who is married and resides in Webster County; John D., Mary, Dora, Martha, Clementina, Edward, Charles, Elva and A. Logan. Mr. and Mrs. Cantrell are members of the Protestant Methodist Church. [Source: "History of Laclede, Camden, Dallas, Webster, Wright, Texas, Pulaski, Phelps and Dent Counties, Missouri", Chicago: The Goodspeed Publishing Co. 1889; Tr. by KM]
CANTRELL, Felix G.
Is a brother of Alexander M. Cantrell, whose sketch appears above, and was born in McMinn County, Tenn., on the 6th of January, 1841, and came to Webster County, Mo., with his mother in 1855. Here he resided until the fall of 1861, when he went to Illinois, and was engaged in farming in Madison County until the fall of 1866, when he returned to Missouri and purchased the old home place, which consists of 440 acres all in one body, nearly one-half of which is bottom land, with 140 acres under cultivation. He has a substantial frame residence, commodious barns and other out-buildings, and his orchard supplies him with sufficient fruit for home use. He was married in Webster County, Mo., on the 9th of December, 1866, to Malinda Jane Pitchford, who was born in Kentucky and reared in Webster County, and by her is the father of the following children: Joseph Sherman, Ulysses S. Grant, William Gabriel, David Sheridan and Martha Arabelle. The mother of these children died April 11, 1885, and Mr. Cantrell's marriage to Mrs. Trephena Gilleland took place in Wright County. She is a daughter of Robert Pool, of Wright County, and was the mother of two children by her first marriage, Parthena and Robert Gilleland. By this last marriage there is one child, Abraham Cantrell. Mr. Cantrell is a member of the Baptist Church. [Source: "History of Laclede, Camden, Dallas, Webster, Wright, Texas, Pulaski, Phelps and Dent Counties, Missouri", Chicago: The Goodspeed Publishing Co. 1889; Tr. by KM]
CANTRELL, Malcolm Paul
Sheriff, McMinn County, born Etowah, McMinn Co., Tenn., Aug. 28, 1895; French-Dutch descent; son of Thomas Washington Cantrell, a farmer and banker, and Parthina (Carlock) Cantrell; paternal grandparents Franklin Marion and Maggie March (Hale) Cantrell; maternal grandparents James Chism and Kathaleen Delina (Hoyle) Carlock; graduated from Etowah, McMinn Co., High 1912 and entered Maryville College 1913; upon leaving college he became General Manager of Etowah Power and Light Company; also Director of Cantrell Banking Co., one of the fastest growing financial institutions of this section. Elected sheriff of McMinn county in 1936 upon a platform pledge of strict law enforcement and a business-like administration, he is the first Democrat to be elected to this office in the past ten years. Married Ada Blanche Raby on June 25, 1926, and is the father of two children, Laura Mintie, 9, and Carol Enloe, 7. He is a Mason, Shriner, Kiwanis, O.R.C., Democrat and a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church South. [Source: Prominent Tennesseans, 1796 - 1938; tr. by AJ]
CLEAGE, William Bradford
Treasurer of City of Chattanooga; born Athens, (McMinn Co) Tenn., August 28, 1877; son of John Henry and Elizabeth (Tipton) Cleage; paternal grandfather Alexander Cleage; Dutch-English descent; educated schools of Chattanooga; marriage Francis Hagan, June 19, 1907; member Elks, K. of P., member of Legislature of Tennessee (three terms); Chairman of City Democratic Committee; City Treasurer; Managing Editor Chattanooga News; was member of staff of Gov. Benton McMillin; member First Presbyterian Church, Chattanooga. [Source: Who's Who in Tennessee, Memphis: Paul & Douglass Co., Publishers, 1911; Tr. by KM]
DODSON, Frank Russell
Born at Athens, Tenn., June 22, 1892. Engaged in banking and insurance. Married, Aug. 9, 1918, to Ethel Ballew; secondly, to Marie Fiske, April 14, 1927. Scotch-English descent, son of Wm. C. and Malinda Caroline (Ballard) Dodson. Paternal grandparents Edward and Caroline (Forrest) Dodson; maternal grandparents Washington and Harriett (Oliphant) Ballard. Attended the McMinn High School at Athens, Tenn.; Athens College; University of Chattanooga, 1916. Member of the Baptist Church; Republican; Mason; Junior Order; Shriner, and Knight Templar. In 1911, Mr. Dodson became connected with the Citizen's National Bank of Athens, Tenn., serving for a time as its cashier; became its president in July, 1934. He was a member of the City Council from 1924-29; mayor of Athens from 1929-37; a Republican member of the State Board of Election from 1934-37. Mr. Dodson's business career and other connections have made him one of the outstanding men of this section of the state. He is the father of four children: - Frank, Jr., Jean, Eddie, and Barbara. [Source: Prominent Tennesseans, 1796 - 1938; tr. by AJ]
EPPERSON, Dr. Ray Wilhoite
Physician and Surgeon. Born at Charleston, Tenn. on Dec. 28, 1904. Of Scotch-Irish descent. Son of Joseph Oscar and Mary Kate (Bolen) Epperson. Paternal grandparents are Joseph and ( ) Fuller Epperson. Maternal grandparents are ( ) Bolen. A member of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church; Mason; Phi Rho Sigma (Med.), State Amem. M. fraternities. Finished the public schools of Bradley Co.; U. of Tenn., M.D. He is the owner and operator of the Epperson Clinic, hospital at Athens, Tenn. He has practiced his profession since 1930. Married Lorene Asken of Model, Tenn. [Source: Prominent Tennesseans, 1796 - 1938; tr. by AJ]
FISHER, James Gettys
Banker; born of Scotch-German descent, May 30, 1863; son of Richard M. and Ann M. (Gettys) Fisher.; married Lula Brigham June 15, 1915. Educated at East Tennessee Wesleyan; University of Athens. Member M. E. Church, South; Democrat; Mason; Scottish Rite. President of the First National Bank of Athens, Tenn., having served in this capacity for 29 years. Prior to his election to this position, he was cashier for the same institution, he was cashier for the same institution for 12 years. Before the beginning of his banking career, he was employed by the Knoxville Woolen Mills; was also employed by the Cowan-McClung and Co.; had many other minor positions. One of the recognized leaders among the business men of his section of the state, he is very active in all public and civic affairs, especially those pertaining to the health conditions of his town and county. [Source: Prominent Tennesseans, 1796 - 1938; tr. by AJ]
FISHER, Robert Joseph
Inventor, manufacturer; born Athens, (McMinn Co) Tenn., Jan. 3, 1857; Scotch-German descent; son of Richard M. and Ann M. (Gettys) Fisher; father was a business man and banker; educated at East Tennessee Wesleyan University, Athens, Tenn.; began business career as teller in Cleveland (Tenn.) National Bank; organizer and cashier First National Bank of Athens; inventor of Fisher Typewriter and Billing Machine; married Alice M. Gaucher Jan. 9, 1892. [Source: Who's Who in Tennessee, Memphis: Paul & Douglass Co., Publishers, 1911; Tr. by KM]
GRUBB, Peter Jasper
Farmer; born McMinn Co., Tenn., Nov. 28, 1843; German descent; son of William and Mahallah (Anderson) Grubb; received common school education; married M.L. Pierce May 2, 1867; Mason; Republican; was Justice of the Peace Meigs Co., Tenn., 1872-1882; served in the civil war as private U.S.A.; member of the Baptist church; began farming in early life and at present engaged in farming and stock raising. [Source: Who's Who in Tennessee, Memphis: Paul & Douglass Co., Publishers, 1911; Tr. by KM]
HOBACK, John George
Machinist; born McMinn Co., Tenn., Jan. 23, 1845; German descent; son of William and Elizabeth (Hutsell) Hoback; father was a contractor and builder; educated in local schools of Athens, Tenn.; early occupation farmer, later engaged in lumber manufacturing and in stock raising industries; married Adeline Owen Feb. 18, 1875; member Methodist Episcopal church; Republican; was a soldier in the Federal army during civil war. [Source: Who's Who in Tennessee, Memphis: Paul & Douglass Co., Publishers, 1911; Tr. by KM]
IVINS, Eugene Ernest
Lawyer; born Athens, (McMinn Co) Tenn., Oct. 5, 1875; Scotch-Irish descent; son of Joe J. and Mary E. (Barry) Ivins; his father was a journalist; paternal grandfather Sam P. Ivins, paternal grandmother Louisa (Haynes) Ivins; maternal grandfather John W. Barry, maternal grandmother Mary Elizabeth (Ernest) Barry; educated in the common schools and Grant University, Athens, Tenn.; began business as Stenographer; married Kitty Allen Dec., 1907; member Masonic Lodge, Cumberland Club, Knoxville; was district delegate to St. Louis National Democratic convention 1904; member and secretary of present State Democratic Committee; City Attorney of Etowah, Tenn., and County Attorney of McMinn Co.; local attorney for the L. & N.R.R.; Attorney for the Athens & Tellico Railroad, First National Bank of Etowah, Etowah Bank and Trust Co., First National Bank of Athens and Athens Bank and Trust Co.; member of M.E. church, South. [Source: Who's Who in Tennessee, Memphis: Paul & Douglass Co., Publishers, 1911; Tr. by KM]
JARVIS, James Howard
Superintendent of City Schools; born Riceville, (McMinn Co) Tenn., Feb. 1, 1877; Scotch-Irish-Welsh and French-English descent; son of James L. and Mary Annie (Howard) Jarvis; father's occupation school teacher and farmer; paternal grandparents James and Mary (Jones) Jarvis; maternal grandparents George W. and Eliza J. (Sallee) Howard; educated in the public schools and Grant University, Athens, Tenn.; graduated from Grant University with Ph.B. degree May 21, 1906; in early life was a farmer; began teaching at 19 years of age in the public schools of McMinn Co., taught three years in same school; worked his way through college, teaching part of year and attending school the remainder; won a prize in oratory in the year 1904, one in debate in 1905; has been Superintendent of the Lenoir City (Tenn.) schools for past five years; married Mattie E. Ereckson Dec. 24, 1899; former census enumerator Lenoir City, 1910; Tax Assessor in McMinn Co. 1902-1906; Census Enumerator Lenoir City 1910; member of the M.E. church; at one time was interested in the life insurance business. [Source: Who's Who in Tennessee, Memphis: Paul & Douglass Co., Publishers, 1911; Tr. by KM]
JONES, Clement James
Attorney at law; born Spartanburg, S.C., Dec. 18, 1874; son of Milnor and Mary (Watkins) Jones; paternal grandfather Dr. Clement F. Jones, paternal grandmother Elizabeth (Chambers) Jones, (daughter of U. S. Senator E. F. Chambers, Md.), maternal grandfather James Watkins, maternal grandmother Mary (Calvert) Watkins; Welsh and Scotch descent; educated Oregon Agricultural College, Corvalis, Oregon, A.T.U., Harriman, Tenn.; graduated in law department A.T.U. in 1897; married Lillian Triplett Jan. 25, 1900; member Royal Arch Masons, Harriman Chapter, Tri-Co. Lodge K. of P., Tenn. Society Sons of the Revolution; was chairman Congressional Committee 2nd District Tenn. from 1904-1906; Mayor Oliver Springs (3 terms), 1906-1911; County Judge Anderson Co., one term, 1907-1908, by appointment of Gov. Patterson; Presidential Elector Democratic ticket 1908; served as Ord. Sergt. 1st Tenn. Vols. war with Spain; served in Philippines during insurrection; Mayor Athens, 1917-1919; Member of State Executive Committee, 1932-34; Attorney for L. & N. R. R., Tenn. Electric Power Co., Tenn. Railroad Assoc., has wide law practice in McMinn and adjoining counties. [Source: Prominent Tennesseans, 1796 - 1938; tr. by AJ]
KIMBROUGH, George Washington
Farmer; born McMinn Co., Tenn., Sept. 1, 1858; Scotch-Irish and English descent; son of Duke Henry and Mary E. (Cooke) Kimbrough; father's occupation farmer and merchant; received common school education; reared on farm in McMinn Co., Tenn. and 1880 moved to Monroe Co., where he now lives; he has been engaged in farming, stock raising and trading all of his life; married Minnie Williams Sept. 25, 1878; member F. & A.M.; Democrat; member of Tenn. legislature in 1897-1898, and has been Justice of the Peace 12 years, and Notary Public 16 years; member of Baptist church. [Source: Who's Who in Tennessee, Memphis: Paul & Douglass Co., Publishers, 1911; Tr. by KM]
LOWRY, John Riley
Teacher and superintendent schools; born Riceville, (McMinn Co) Tenn., Sept. 23, 1862; Scotch-Irish descent; son of Robt. Alexander and Lydia Catherine (Wasson) Lowry; father farmer; paternal grandparents John and Elizabeth (Henry) Lowry; maternal grandparents Benjamin and Lydia Wasson; educated in McMinn Co. public schools, Peabody Institute, University of Tenn., Harvard College; graduated Riceville Classical Institute, Riceville, Tenn. June, 1884 with B.S. and A.B. degrees; married Laura E. Dodson Jan. 11, 1888; County superintendent schools, McMinn Co., 1884-5; was Prin. Georgetown Academy 1885-7; Northside school, Chattanooga 1888-1891; served as principal in various schools from 1891 to 1904; was Supt. city schools Johnson City, Tenn. 1907-11; member I.O.O.F. and Jr. O.U.A.M.; Republican; member Presbyterian church; P.O. address Knoxville, Tenn. [Source: Who's Who in Tennessee, Memphis: Paul & Douglass Co., Publishers, 1911; Tr. by KM]
LOWRY, William W.
Postmaster; born Washington Co., Va., Jan. 15, 1843; Scotch-Irish descent; son of James H. and Abigail (McNew) Lowry; father teacher, farmer and merchant; educated in McMinn Co. Schools, graduating at Riceville, Tenn. May, 1862; married Elba H. Syhacker May 14, 1868; began life as a farmer; served in Federal army 1861-1865, being non-commissioned officer; 2nd Sergeant 5th Tenn. Mtd. Infantry; was in service of Southern Ry. 20 years, being freight and passenger conductor in Knoxville Div. through East Tenn.; was 1900-1910; has been Post Master Riceville since May, 1887; member F. & A.M. (Worshipful Master 1909-1910); member executive board Republicans, member M.E. church. [Source: Who's Who in Tennessee, Memphis: Paul & Douglass Co., Publishers, 1911; Tr. by KM]
MILLARD, William Addison
Farmer and stock man; born McMinn Co., Tenn., June 18, 1871; son of F.M. and Martha E. (Cass) Millard; father's occupation farmer; paternal grandfather George W. Millard, paternal grandmother Rebekah (Houk) Millard; maternal grandfather Moses A. Cass, maternal grandmother Anna (Ryan) Cass; Irish descent; educated in public schools of McMinn Co. and Grand Memorial Univ.; early occupation teaching; married Ida M. Matlock Oct. 20, 1897; member I.O.O.F.; formerly member of the Co. Court of McMinn Co. from 1890-1896; member Methodist church. [Source: Who's Who in Tennessee, Memphis: Paul & Douglass Co., Publishers, 1911; Tr. by KM]
MURRAY, William
This subject is a native of McMinn county, Tennessee, born, June 24, 1829. His parents were Renne and Anne Murray, the former a native of North Carolina, born May 25, 1801, and living in Greene county at this writing. When William was a small boy his father removed to Gibson county, Tennessee, where his mother died. From thence they moved to Monroe county, where William was chiefly educated. He came West in 1852, and crossed the plains to the gold country (California) where he remained over two years, returning to Tennessee, in the fall of 1854. In 1855, he came out to Missouri, locating in Greene county, and the next year purchased the place where he now resides in Boone township. He has added to his original purchased from time, till he now owns a fine farm of 360 acres, and is one of the best and most successful farmers of the township. He was married March 8, 1853 to Miss Melinda Stone, a native of Tennessee. Her father was James and her mother Meriline (Browder) Stone, both of Tennessee. Mr. Murray and wife have nine living children, named: Thomas J., Mahala E., William B., Harvey, Melinda J., Sarah B., Mary E., Charles and George. Both Mr. Murray and wife are members of the M. E. Church South. The land, now comprising Mr. M.'s farm, was an unbroken wilderness when he first came to the county. He has, however, by perseverance and industry, improved it into a splendid homestead, and has 150 acres of it under fence, the most of which is in a high state of cultivation. [Green County, Missouri; St. Louis, Western Historical Company (1883). tr by GT Team]
OWEN, Daniel Marion
Born in Athens, (McMinn Co) Tennessee July 27, 1854; Welsh descent; son of William Carrol and Jane (Reed) Owen; his father's occupation farmer; received common school education; began business career in General Merchandise; married twice, first wife Roxie L. Rogers, July 15, 1879, second wife Allie I. Moore, Jan. 15, 1893; Republican; formerly Mayor of Athens; member of Christian church. [Source: Who's Who in Tennessee, Memphis: Paul & Douglass Co., Publishers, 1911; Tr. by KM]
OWEN, Lenty Lee
Trustee of McMinn County, and farmer; born in McMinn Co. Tenn., May 30, 1896 of English-German descent; father James Franklin Owen, farmer; mother, before her marriage, Annie Arnwine. Married Gertrude Murray on June 1, 1937. Paternal grandparents Thomas and Betty (Lawson) Owen; maternal grandparents Mell F. and Bell (Coffey) Arnwine. Educated in the public schools of McMinn County, finishing at McMinn Co. High. Member of M. E. Church South; Democrat. Elected Trustee of McMinn County on August 6, 1936 by a substantial majority over his Republican opponent, the first Democrat to be elected to this office during the past 40 years. His high degree of efficiency and courtesy to the general public makes him very popular with the people of his county. Before his election he was engaged in the oil business, distributor for the Standard Oil Company. Engaged in farming for a number of years, in which pursuit he is now engaged. He was a soldier in the United States Army during the World War, serving with the A.E.F. for six months in Company I 331st Inf., 83rd Division; discharged on Feb. 8, 1919 at Fort Oglethorpe, Ga. His grandfather Owen was a soldier in the Confederate Army during the Civil War. His hobby is bird-hunting. [Source: Prominent Tennesseans, 1796 - 1938; tr. by AJ]
PARKISON, John A.
Physician; born Athens, (McMinn Co) Tenn., May 26, 1842; son of James and Mary A. (Clementson) Parkison; paternal grandfather Manuel Parkison, paternal grandmother's name was Smith, maternal grandparents G.M. and Sarah (McKim) Clementson; received academic education Athens, Tenn., and graduated in medicine at Philadelphia, Pa., April, 1868; married Frances Maupin Feb., 1874; former member of Tenn. Gen Assembly; engaged in the practice of medicine at Athens, Tenn. [Source: Who's Who in Tennessee, Memphis: Paul & Douglass Co., Publishers, 1911; Tr. by KM]
PERROW, Charles Henry
Born Nelson Co., Va., Feb. 23, 1841; Huguenot and English descent; his paternal ancestors settled at Monakin Town, Va., on tract of land given to the Huguenots by William and Mary; maternal ancestors date back to Norman the Conqueror, 1066; educated Va., and Baltimore, Md.; entered the mercantile business in early life; volunteered in Virginia in the cavalry of the Confederate Army, and served four years; married Sue V. Graham in 1875; Mason; Democrat. [Source: Who's Who in Tennessee, Memphis: Paul & Douglass Co., Publishers, 1911; Tr. by KM]
REED, Charles Montgomery (Sr)
Hardware merchant and farmer; born Athens, McMinn County, Tenn., Dec. 13, 1861; son of S.W. and Catherine (Guthrie) Reed; English descent; educated Grant University, Athens, Tenn., and Moore's Business College, Atlanta, Ga.; married Fannie Fisher Nov. 16, 1897; member of I.O.O.F., W.O.W., Royal Arcanum, and First Degree in Masonry head consul of W.O.W. in Tennessee; Chairman of County Democratic Executive Committee from 1898 to 1904; member of Christian church. [Source: Who's Who in Tennessee, Memphis: Paul & Douglass Co., Publishers, 1911; Tr. by KM]
RUCKER, John
John Rucker was born in South Carolina in 1800, and removed from that State when quite small, to McMinn County, Tenn.; he remained there until 1833, when he removed to Macon County, and resided here until he died, in the year 1872. He was a hard working man all his life, and by industry succeeded in amassing property sufficient to class him with the well-to-do men of the county. He was for fourteen years one of the county commissioners of Macon County, holding the position longer than any other man since the organization of the county. Mrs. Elizabeth Rucker, his wife, is still living with her son-in-law, E. R. Eldridge, in Decatur.
Mr. R., was, in all his transactions, strict, and required all he dealt with to observe the same thing. When he came to the State, his worldly possessions were carried on two horses, and his success in life is a monument to honest and patient toil and industry. [Source: Smith, J. W. (1876). History of Macon County, Illinois, from its organization to 1876. Springfield, Ill: Rokker's Printing House. P. 278. Tr. by Judy Rosella Edwards]
SULLINS, David (D.D.)
For a number of years president of the Centenary Female college, Cleveland, Tenn., was born in McMinn county, Tenn., July 28, 1827. His parents were Nathan and Rebecca (Mitchell) Sullins, the former a native of Virginia, who came in his youth with his parents to Tennessee, and the latter the daughter of Rev. Morris Mitchell, one of the pioneer Methodist ministers of East Tennessee. They were married in Knox county, and soon afterward removed to McMinn county, where Nathan Sullins became a prosperous farmer and stock raiser. It was upon this farm that David was born and that his early life was passed. After the ordinary common school education, he attended Forest Hill academy, near Athens, for a year, and in 1850 graduated from Emory and Henry college. The same year he joined the Holston conference of the Methodist Episcopal Church South, and soon became active in promoting the work of his chosen denomination. In 1853 he became president of the Odd Fellows' Female college, at Jonesboro, Tenn., a position which he held for five years. During the next two years he was engaged in the work of the ministry, at Chattanooga and Knoxville. When the Nineteenth Tennessee, Confederate infantry, was organized, he was made chaplain and later became the chaplain of Breckenridge's division. After the war, he was elected president of Wytheville Virginia Female college, which office he continued to administer for three years, when he removed to Bristol, Tenn., and founded Sullinscollege, remaining at the head of the institution until 1880, when he was elected president of Emory and Henry college. In 1885 he was persuaded to take the presidency of the Centenary Female college, at Cleveland, and during the years of his administration the institution prospered, new buildings were erected at a cost of many thousands of dollars, and the attendance made a most satisfactory growth. In 1855 he was married to Ann Rebecca, daughter of John Blair, of Jonesboro, Tenn., and their two sons and two daughters are all college graduates and members of the Methodist Episcopal Church South. [Source: Notable Men of Tennessee - Tr. by KM]
SULLINS, David
Educator and minister of the Gospel; born McMinn Co., Tenn., July 28, 1827; son of Nathan and Rebecca (Mitchell) Sullins; Scotch-Irish descent; father's occupation farmer; educated Forest Hill Academy and Emory & Henry College, A.B., A.M. and D.D.; married Annie Rebecca Blair May 3, 1855; member of Masons and Odd Fellows; chaplain 19th Tenn. Regiment, C.S.A., Major, Quartermaster in Confederate States army; converted Sept. 29, 1839, joined Holston conference M.E. church, South, 1850; joined Confederate army in 1861; founded Sullins College, Bristol, Tenn., 1870; elected president of Emory & Henry College 1880, elected president Centenary Female College, Cleveland 1885; now president emeritus Centenary Female College, Cleveland, Tenn.; member M.E. church, South. [Source: Who's Who in Tennessee, Memphis: Paul & Douglass Co., Publishers, 1911; Tr. by KM]
TAYLOR, Tom J.
Lawyer, public official; born in McMinn Co. March 6, 1903; Scotch-Irish descent; son of Jas. R. Taylor and Emma (Ferguson) Taylor. Married Blanche Wallthall Oct. 15, 1932. Educated in the public schools of McMinn Co.; Carson-Newman College, Jefferson City, Tenn., Cumberland Univ.; A.B., LL.B. and M.A. degrees 1925-26. Has been engaged in the practice of law at Athens, Tenn., since his graduation in 1925. Elected direct Rep. from McMinn Co. in the Tenn. General Assembly in 1931 session. Appointed Republican member of the State Board of Election by Gov. Gordan Browning in 1938. [Source: Prominent Tennesseans, 1796 - 1938; tr. by AJ]
WALKER, Paul Jerome
Engaged in banking and insurance; born at Nashville, Tenn. Aug. 28, 1903 of Scotch-Irish parentage; son of Thomas Martin and Emma (Bidwell) Walker. Married June 4, 1930 Cora Willoughby Sherman. Educated in the public schools of Nashville, finishing Humd-Fogg High School in the Class of 1920. Member of M. E. Church So.; Democrat; Mason, Scottish Rite; Kiwanas; Sec. C. of C. Became mayor of Athens, July 13, 1937 without his seeking the office, the citizens calling him into service. President of the Farmers' Bank of Athens, which position he has held for four years. Manager of the Athens Ins. Agency. Prior to his coming to Athens, six years ago, he was engaged in the insurance business in Knoxville. At the beginning of this business career, he was special agent for the Home Insurance Company in both New York and Tennessee. His first experience was in the office of Paul M. Davis of Nashville, to whom he attributes what measure of success he has attained. Takes an active part in all public and civic affairs of his town and county. His grandfather Bidwell was a soldier on the side of the Confederacy during the Civil War. He is the father of three children: -Janice, Jerry, and Laura. His hobby is golf. [Source: Prominent Tennesseans, 1796 - 1938; tr. by AJ]
WANKAN, Fred E.
Publisher, lawyer, lecturer; born at Maryville, Cooke Co., Texas Feb. 5, 1891; Scotch-Irish, English and German descent; son of John S. and Nola B. (Miller) Wankan. Paternal grandparents Wm. and Nancy Hargrove (Pounds) Wankan; maternal grandparents Geo. and Missouri Walker (Miller) Miller. Attended Maryville Elementary School; Harfell High School; Polytechnic College, Ft. Worth, Texas; Cumberland Univ.; LL.B. degree. Member of M. E. Church, South; Independent Dem.; A.F.M.; Royal Arch Mason; Knight Templar. Editor, owner and publisher of the Daily Post Athenian, which business he purchased in 1930; began the publication of his present paper on March 16, 1931. Has spent many years in the publishing business, beginning this work when he was 21 years old. He has been connected with many of the country's leading newspapers. Practiced law for several years; served as County Attorney at Gainesville, Texas from 1916-25. In 1924 he accepted a position with the Knights of the Ku Klux Klan, lecturing throughout the U. S. He is the father of two children, Fred E. Jr., and Marise. Has identified himself with many worthwhile projects in his section of the state and is widely known as a leader in civic affairs. [Source: Prominent Tennesseans, 1796 - 1938; tr. by AJ]
WARD, John Jordan
Born in Roane Co. June 14, 1878 of Irish descent; father Wm. Daniel Ward, farmer and merchant; his mother, before her marriage, Gillie White. Married Jan. 4, 1898 Hattie Cooke. Paternal grandparents Joseph Daniel and Sarah (Fry) Ward; maternal Joseph White, et ux. Attended the public schools of Roane Co.; and Seven Island Academy. Member of the Baptist church; Republican; I.O.O.F.; Jr.O.U.A.M. Was elected county Judge of McMinn Co. in January, 1933; reelected in January 1936, and again in 1937. Has been a member of the McMinn County Quarterly Court for the past 18 years. Prior to his election as a member of the county court, he was engaged in the mercantile business at Sweetwater, Tenn., for 12 years, afterwards removing to McMinn Co. His father was a soldier in the Union army during the Civil War and was taken prisoner at Bell Island where he remained for fourteen months. Judge Ward is the father of five children; - Mrs. Catherine Redman, Mrs. Helen Haskell, John J., Jr., Albert, Dixie, and Mrs. Pauline Crabtree, deceased. [Source: Prominent Tennesseans, 1796 - 1938; tr. by AJ]
WILSON, J. L.
J. L. Wilson, a farmer and stock dealer, was born in 1837, in McMinn County, Tennessee. From his childhood until 1866, the family lived in Monroe County. In September they moved to where he has since resided. He began life for himself at eighteen years of age with a good, common-school education, and, with the exception of one year of very successful merchandising during the war, he has followed agricultural pursuits, in both of which capacities he has proved himself remarkably successful. He now owns 1,063 acres of find land, well improved and stocked, located on the Pond Creek Road, ten miles from Loudon. He is the third of ten children of W. P. and Julia (Henry) Wilson, very successful farmers. In 1862 our subject married Mary J., a daughter of Washington and Sallie (Parsley) Ballard. Their children were Sallie B., Julia, Willie, Hattie, Jennie, Ida (deceased), Maud, James L. (deceased), Callie and Frank (deceased). The mother died April 8, 1886, since which time the daughters have had charged. Our subject is a Master Mason, and in politics he is a Democrat. On his farm are some of the finest deposits of marble, and also of lead ore. He is a most successful man, and a highly respected citizen. [Source: The History of Tennessee, Volume 2, by Goodspeed Publishing Company, 1887; transcribed by GT Team]
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