Richardson, John Patton

Submitted by Mike Miller

John Patton Richardson was a native of Jackson, Miss. He was the son of the late Col. Edward Richardson and Susie Patton, of Alabama. He received the rudiments of education in the schools of his native state and completed his studies in the Virginia Military academy of Lexington, Ky. Fifteen years ago he came to New Orleans and engaged in the wholesale dry goods business with Colonel William Carey. When the latter withdrew from business, Mr. Richardson continued in his own name, until two years ago when the firm became Richardson, Williams & Co. Mr. Richardson married, about fourteen years ago, Miss Ella Oliver, daughter of Capt. William Oliver, of Wesson, Miss. Five children, two of whom survive, a boy of thirteen and a girl of six, were born to them. Mr. Richardson, during his residence in New Orleans was actively interested in all things pertaining to the welfare of New Orleans. He was proud of the military glory of this city and was an officer in the Crescent battalion commanded by Capt. C. E. Fenner, and subsequently, was major on the staff of Brig.-Gen. Adolph Meyer. He was also a member of the prominent social clubs of New Orleans and wan a favorite with all. He was generous, although demanding strict discipline in his dealings with his employee and in his borne, he ever was a loving, affectionate man. He had three brothers: James S., William P., Charles P., and one sister, Susie, now Mrs. W. W. Gordon. He died suddenly in December, 1891, aged thirty-six years.

Biographical and Historical Memoires of Louisiana, (vol. 2), p. 496. Published by the Goodspeed Publishing Company, Chicago, 1892.