1890 Biographies A-E

Zacheus F. Adkins is of Georgian nativity, the year of his birth being 1846, but since be attained his eighth year he has been a resident of Louisiana, being brought thither by his parents, Columbus and Ginsey (Alexander) Adkins, the former born in South Carolina, in 1818, and the latter in Georgia in 1825. The paternal grandfather, Zacheus Adkins, was in all probability born in the State of Virginia, as was also the mother's father, Hiram Alexander. Zacheus Adkins, whose name heads this sketch, was educated in the schools of this parish, and at the early age of nineteen years he was united in the bonds of matrimony to Miss Mollie McEinzie, a daughter of Lacy McKinzie, and they have reared a worthy family of seven children: Ula G.. Eddie E., George W., Alice M., Lena A., John P. and T. Abbie.
Mr. Adkins has been engaged in the milling business since 1869, and the work which he does has been remarkably successful, the patronage which he has attracted to this place for milling purposes being steadily on the increase. If close application and study of the wants of his customers will serve to make a permanent success, Mr. Adkins has most assuredly deserved the success which has attended his efforts. He has at all times endeavored to please and keep with other institutions of a like nature, and in this he has succeeded admirably.
In addition to his mill, he owns a valuable and well-tilled plantation of 240 acres. He has always been a stanch supporter of Democratic principles.

Henry L. Awbrey is a leading planter of Claiborne Parish, Louisiana, but was born in Heard County, Georgia, in 1848, being one of the following family of children: Amelia (wife of George W. Beck of Ward 5), Henry, Elizabeth (wife of P. T. Henry, of Homer, Louisiana), John P. (a resident of this parish), Charles C. (also residing here), and Mary (wife of B. G. Taylor, of Ward 5.)
The father, Philip Awbrey, was a Georgian, born in 1818, a son of William Awbrey, of Georgia also. The wife of Philip Awbrey was Miss Frances Fomby. Henry L. Awbrey came with his parents to Claiborne Parish, Louisiana, in 1857, and here secured a common school education. He was married in 1876, to Miss Elizabeth Keener, a daughter of J. P. Keener, a native of Alabama, and Martha (Hackney) Keener, also of that State. To them seven children were born, of whom are living: Clyde, Bessie L., H. L., Bay E. and Floyd L.
Politically, at all times, Henry L. has affiliated with the Democratic Party, and is ever anxious to vote for capable and worthy men. By a liberal use of the brain and brawn, with which nature has bestowed him, he has become the owner of a plantation of 260 acres, of which 200 are under cultivation. He and his wife are members of the Missionary Baptist Church, and are among the first-class and substantial residents of this section, for besides being liberal in their contribution to worthy enterprises, they are hospitable, kind and obliging.

James T. Baker is a gentleman who has rapidly and surely made his way to the front among the energetic business men of this community, and has built up a large business that is constantly on the increase.
His birth occurred in Chambers County, Louisiana, December 25, 1843, to Leroy and Mary (Cook) Baker, both of whom were Georgians. They were married in Alabama, and there followed farming up to 1856, when they moved to Louisiana, and opened up a farm in Claiborne Parish. Mr. Baker enlisted in the Twenty-fifth Louisiana Infantry, and served as sergeant until the close of the war, being killed at Spanish Fort after the surrender of Gen. Lee. His widow survived him a number of years, then she too passed away.
J. T. Baker is the eldest of their four sons and two daughters, and has been a resident of this parish since his thirteenth year. In 1861 the clash of arms caused him to cast aside personal considerations to espouse the Confederate cause, and served with the Twelfth Louisiana Infantry until the close of the war, being regimental musician. He was in the fight at Belmont, Missouri, Island No. 10, Fort Pillow, second Corinth, Bakers' Creek, and was in the Atlanta (Georgia), campaign under Gen. Johnston, afterward being with Hood at Franklin and Nashville, Tenn. His last engagement was at Benton, North Carolina., and he afterward surrendered and was paroled at Greensboro, North Carolina.
He returned to Claiborne Parish, Louisiana, and engaged in milling and lumbering, continuing up to 1880, when he changed his business and clerked in Athens for about three years. At the end of this time he purchased an interest in a mercantile establishment, but in 1885 began doing business alone, remaining at Old Athens up to 1887. He then built the store building where he now is, and put in a complete stock of general merchandise, and the trade which he has succeeded in obtaining is in every respect satisfactory. He increases his stock of goods from time to time, and now has one of the most complete general mercantile establishments in this section of the country.
His marriage, which took place December 5, 1869, was to Miss Victoria Marsalis, a Mississippian, reared and educated in this parish, and a daughter of P. Marsalis. To Mr. Baker and his wife live sous and four daughters have been born: Leon (a clerk in his father's store), Reese, Enos, Claude, Terrel, Jennie, Addie, Gertrude and Carrie Bell. Mr. Baker and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church South, and he belongs to the Masonic order, and is junior deacon of his lodge. He is postmaster of Athens, having served since 1882.

William G. Barnes, like a number of the residents of Athens, Louisiana, is a merchant and planter, and has met with fair success in both enterprises.
His birth occurred in Heard County, Georgia, in 1847, he being the elder of two children born to his parents, the other child being Mary E., wife of J. W. Cobb, of Athens. John W. Barnes, their father, was born in Georgia, about 1821, and was there married to Miss Elizabeth Brown, whose birth occurred in that State in 1828. The father resided in his native State until his death, which occurred in 1849, after which his widow married Rev. H. H. Phillips, a prominent minister of the Missionary Baptist Church.
The paternal grandfather of the subject of this sketch was William Barnes, a native of South Carolina, who was one of the earliest settlers of Western Georgia, and his maternal grandfather was Ezekiel Brown, whose wife was Charlotte Barnhill. The family removed from Georgia to Columbia County, Arkansas, in 1861, and in 1869 located in Claiborne Parish, Louisiana, where Mr. Phillips died in July, 1875, having been a minister of the gospel for about thirty-five years. Mr. Barnes has two half-sisters: Annie C., wife of W. A. Adkins, of Athens, and Ella Y., wife of W. R, Kimball, of Brookston, Texas.
William G. Barnes was educated in the schools of Georgia and Arkansas, and in 1864 enlisted in the Confederate Army under Capt. Tyler, serving faithfully until the war closed. In July, 1869, he took as his companion through life Miss Pamelia McDonald, of Columbia County, Arkansas, by whom he became the father of two boys: John W. and Grayton H. Mrs. Barnes died in February, 1875, and the following year Mr. Barnes espoused Miss Cordelia Adkins, in this parish, and their union has resulted in the birth of three children: Geneva V., Voselli A. and Rena A. Politically Mr, Barnes is a Democrat, and from 1882 until 1886) served in the capacity of justice of the peace. He is managing a good plantation of 250 acres, which be owns, and in connection with this has been engaged in the mercantile business since 1887, and now has a well-stocked drug store. His wife is an earnest Christian lady, and is a member of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church.

John K. Barrow, merchant and farmer, Homer, Louisiana Mr. Barrow is only another of the many prominent citizens of Claiborne Parish, Louisiana, who owe their nativity to Alabama, He was born in Chambers County on March 18, 1848, but grew to manhood in Claiborne Parish, whither he had moved with his parents in 1857. He received a common-school education and then flung aside his books to enter the army, serving about four months in the latter part of the war. He then went on a farm with his father and took charge of the same until the death of the latter.
He remained on the farm until after the death of the mother, and was married here in October, 1879, to Miss Sallie W. Barnett, a native of Louisiana, Claiborne Parish, and the daughter of William Barnett. After this union Mr. Barrow and family remained on the homestead up to 1888, when they moved to their present property. He still owns the old homestead and has about 1,700 acres in both farms, 700 acres improved. He has excellent buildings and good orchards on both places.
He built a store and embarked in merchandising in the fall of 1889, and carries a stock of dry goods, groceries, etc. He has a good trade and is a successful business man. Located near his store he has a steam saw mill and gin. To his marriage have been born three living children: Aubyin W., Ida M. and John G. They lost two children in infancy. Mrs. Barrow is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. In height Mr. Barrow is six feet, four and a half inches. He was the youngest son of nine daughters and four sons, three sons and seven daughters now living, born to the union of Josiah and Louisiana (Bass) Barrow, both natives of Georgia. The parents were married in that State and removed from there to Alabama, thence to Louisiana in 1857, and located in Claiborne Parish, near where our subject now resides. The father opened a large farm and remained here until his death in 1871. He served in one of the old Indian wars. His widow died in 1877.

Alfred Blackman. A worthy history of Claiborne Parish, Louisiana, could not be given without mentioning the name of Mr. Blackman, as, for the past forty years, he has been a prominent resident of this section of the country. During this long period his good name has remained untarnished, and he has well and faithfully performed every duty which has fallen to his lot. He was born in Lancaster District, South Carolina, in 1823, but in 1830 was taken to Georgia by his parents, and in Harris County, of that State.
He attained manhood and acquired a practical education. In 1848 he was elected to the position of sheriff of that county, and was a faithful servant of the people, until his removal to Claiborne Parish, Louisiana, in 1850. In El Dorado County, Arkansas, he was married in 1854 to Miss Margaret K, a daughter of Daniel Norwood, an eminent divine of the Methodist Episcopal Church. To Mr. and Mrs. Blackman a family of six children were born, five sons and one daughter: James W., Edward W., John L. (a resident of Nevada, Texas), Henry M. (married and a resident of Fort Worth, Texas), Tola (wife of John M. Brown, of Homer, Louisiana), and Alfred H. (who is now a student in the medical department of the Vanderbilt University of Nashville, Tennessee). Mr. Blackman, at the opening of the war, was the owner of sixty slaves, and although he is now the owner of about a section of land with 200 acres under cultivation, he was immensely wealthy prior to that time.
Upon the bursting of the war cloud, which had threatened the country for some time, he espoused the Confederate cause, and became a member of a company called the Moore Fencibles in April, 1861, and was a participant in the first battle of Manassas Junction. He then served on detached service west of the Mississippi River until the close of the war. He was a member of the old Wig party until its dissolution, then becoming a Democrat, with which party he has at all times affiliated, being very active and successful in its support, but has held aloof from office, although positions have been frequently tendered him. He is strictly temperate in all his habits, and is a strong advocate of prohibition.
Socially he belongs to the A. P. & A. M., and he and wife are consistent members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, having been so from childhood. His wife was born near Selma, Louisiana, to Daniel H. and Emily (Goodwin) Norwood, natives, respectively, of North Carolina and Alabama, she being one of their twelve children, of whom only three are now living; her sisters, Mrs. Browning and Mrs. White, being residents of Norwalk, Louisiana Mr. Blackman inherits Welsh and Irish blood of his ancestors, who came to the United States at a very early day, settling in Virginia. He was the youngest in a family of six children, all of whom grew to maturity. His parents were born in Virginia and North Carolina in 1782 and 1787, respectively. The following are the names of his brothers, the only ones of the family whom the subject of this sketch can remember: Jonathan, Joseph, Nathaniel and John. Members of this family served in the Revolutionary War, John holding the rank of colonel under Francis Marion.

William D. Bonner, merchant, Homer, Louisiana Mr. Bonner, a native of Louisiana, was born in Bossier Parish on August 21, 1858, and is a son of William S. Bonner, who was born in Morgan Parish, Georgia The father was reared in his native parish, and was married there to Miss Mary E. Darden, also a native, of Georgia. They removed to Louisiana in 1859, located in Bossier Parish, and here the father tilled the soil for one year. From there they moved to Claiborne Parish, located in Ward No. 4, and there bought, an improved farm, where they still reside. The father was a soldier in the Confederate Army from the beginning to the end of hostilities. He is a prominent member of the Baptist Church. Of the six children born to this union, three sons and three daughters, three sons and two daughters are now living, and all but one are married. William D. Bonner passed his boyhood and youth on the farm in Claiborne Parish, and received a fair education in the country schools.
When nineteen years of age he left home, engaged in clerking in Homer for a number of years, and in the fall of 1888 he embarked in mercantile pursuits for himself. Mr. Bonner carries a large stock of general merchandise, including dry goods, clothing, groceries, glass and queens-ware, furniture, etc., and has built up a good trade. He is a gentleman highly esteemed for his many intrinsic qualities, is a first class business man, and is frequently complimented on the neat and tasty arrangement of his store and stock.
Mr. Bonner was married in Webster Parish, Louisiana, on November 8, 1878, to Miss Esther Garland, a native of Louisiana, born in Webster Parish, where she was reared and educated, and the daughter of Wash. Garland. Mr. and Mrs. Bonner have one son, "Willet M., who is but one year old. Both are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church South.

Allen B. Boykin. As a man of business Mr. Boykin's name and fame is coextensive with Claiborne Parish and the surrounding country. Almost every step of his career has been illustrated with acts of liberality and kindness, and in every interest of his section he has taken an active part, and has done all that man could to aid in a higher development.
He is a native of Greene County, Louisiana, his birth occurring in 1831, he being the eldest of five children born to William B. and Willie (Richardson) Boykin. The names of their children are here given: Allen B., Penelope R. (wife of John Cook, of Moody, Tex.), Mary J. (wife of W. P. Otts, of Homer, Louisiana), John W. (who is now a resident of Richland Parish, Louisiana) and Sarah E. (Mrs. Robertson, of Ashley County, Arkansas). William B. Boykin was born in North Carolina in 1803, and was the only son in a family of eight, children born to John W. Boykin, who was also probably born in the Old North State, being an active participant in the War of 1812. Mr. Boykin's wife was born in North Carolina in 1813, and was one in a family of eight children.
The subject of this sketch came to Claiborne Parish, Louisiana, with his parents in 1849, and took up his abode at Homer. Here in 1862 he enlisted in the Twenty-eighth Louisiana Infantry, Company D, and served until 1863, when he was wounded at the battle of Pleasant Hill, his right jaw being broken, the bullet that so disabled him passing through his neck. He then returned home, and, although he had been reared as a planter, he turned his attention to merchandising, opening a store in partnership with a Mr. Cooksey (deceased) in 1805. He has followed this calling ever since, with the exception of a short time in 1878, when he sold out, but in 1880 he reestablished himself in business, opening at his present stand, and by excellent business ability and foresight he has a large and constantly increasing patronage.
In the year 1858 he was united in marriage to Miss Jeanette Cooksey, the daughter of Robert Cooksey, by whom he became the father of four children, only one now living, Lillias F. He was called upon to mourn the death of his wife in December, 1860, and in December, 1870, he espoused Miss Martha Tomlinson, by whom he has three children: Allen T., Kate W. and John W. Mr. Boykin has at all times been identified with the Democratic Party, and has taken a moderately active part in the political issues of the State. He has always bitterly opposed the lottery system which has cursed Louisiana for so many years, and has warmly expressed his views on other important questions of the day.
He has shown his approval of secret organizations by joining the A. F. & A. M., and in his religious views is a member of the Missionary Baptist Church, while his wife is a Presbyterian.

Perry D. Braselton. One of the neatest and best kept plantations in the parish is that owned and operated by Mr. Braselton, which contains about 280 acres, and although it is not as large as some, 150 acres are under cultivation, and yield a larger annual income than many larger places.
He was born in Jackson County, Georgia, June 2, 1827, to Jacob and Mary (Bryson) Braselton, natives of North Carolina and South Carolina respectively. The former was reared in the Palmetto State, and after his marriage there he removed to Georgia about 1809, being one of the first settlers of Jackson County. Being the owner of a number of slaves, he opened up a valuable plantation, and on this property reared a large family. For forty years a doctor never entered his doors in his professional capacity, but at last Mr. Braselton succumbed to the destroyer-death- and passed from life about 1849, having been a worthy member of the Baptist Church for many years. His worthy widow survived him for four years, then she, too, passed from life.
Their family consisted of six sons and three daughters, of whom the subject of this sketch was next to the youngest, he being the only survivor of the sons. His youth and early manhood were spent in Jackson County, Georgia, and there he received ordinary school advantages. In 1847 he removed to Floyd County, of the same State, and there continued to make his home until 1869, opening up a farm with his brother, but for his father. He first hired a substitute for the Confederate Army, but in 1863 became a member of the Floyd Legion of State Troops, with which he served until the close of the war, being in some light skirmishes. After the war he went back to his farm, but in 1869 sold out and removed to Louisiana, locating on the farm on which he is now living in Claiborne Parish. On his property are erected good buildings, his residence being beautifully and healthfully located. While a resident of Floyd County, Georgia he was married to America E. Camp in 1849, she being a native of that county and a daughter of Harrison Camp. Mr. and Mrs. Braselton have seven children living: Oscar F., Mattie (wife of William Nelson), Josie, Harrison, Judson V., Raymond and Brown. Ola died in 1874 at the age of seven years. The mother of these children is a worthy member of the Methodist Episcopal Church South.

Thomas W. Brooks is a merchant of Old Athens, Louisiana, and a short time since was so fortunate as to secure the agency of the celebrated Ames Engines and Boilers, Eagle Gins, Boss Press, Brennan & Co.'s saw mills, Bradford corn mills, Jones' Scales, Perkins' shingle machinery, wood working machinery, cane mills and evaporators. He also deals in the Melchior gin saw cleaners, which are war ranted to gin wet cotton in any condition, together with a full line of machinery, saws, shafting, pulleys, belting, etc. Polite and prompt attention is given to all customers, and all goods are sold at reasonable rates. Mr. Brooks was born in Talbot, County, Georgia, February 16, 1846, to Allen Brooks, a native of Georgia, who was married there to Miss Maria Bullock. Mr. Brooks was a farmer of his native State until his death, which occurred about 1855, after having served in one of the early Indian wars.
Thomas W. Brooks was reared in Talbot and Stewart Counties, and after the death of his father, moved to town with his mother, where he received a thorough English education, which has thoroughly fitted him for the practical life he has led. In 1861 he came to Louisiana, and from the parish of Claiborne enlisted in the Fourth Louisiana Cavalry, Company F, in 1863, serving until the close of the war and participating in some smart skirmishes. He then returned here and after following farming until 1867, he began blacksmithing and repairing, following this calling up to 1889, at Old Athens.
In October of that year he opened his present establishment and carries a very complete line of shelf and heavy groceries besides the stock of goods above mentioned, and is doing a good business as he fully deserves to do. He was married here on February 28, 1866, to Miss Victoria Bridges, who was born and reared in Georgia, a daughter B. N. Bridges, and by her he is the father of seven children: Ida (wife of E. E. Monzingo), Barney, Zadie (wife of W. P. Fincher), Elma, Virgil V., Judge Shepherd and Prentiss. Mr. Brooks was elected to the position of justice of the peace in April, 1887, a position he held four years; socially is a member of the A. P. & A. M., and he and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

Samuel P. Brown has been identified with the progress and development of Claiborne Parish, Louisiana, for many years and is especially well known throughout this region as a dealer in general merchandise at Haynesville, where he was born in 1835, being one of fifteen children, all of whom grew to maturity, with the exception of one. His brothers and sisters are as follows: Mary A. (wife of William De Moss, of Bossier Parish), William W. (who resides in Homer, Louisiana), Jackson J. (who died in Cleburne, Texas, leaving a family), Abraham N. (a resident and planter of Haynesville, Louisiana), John L. (also a planter of this parish), Elizabeth (wife of W. E. Fortson, of Antioch, Louisiana), Thomas M. (a planter of Ward 3), Julia A. (of Dallas, Texas), George W. (who died in Monroe, Louisiana, during the war). Isaac N. (a furniture dealer of Arcadia. Louisiana). Andrew J. (who died when a lad), Charles H. (a resident of Homer, Louisiana), Henry C. named by Henry Clay, himself, resides on the old home place in Ward 7 of this parish, and Sarah F. (wife of Joseph E. Barrow, of Oklahoma).
The father, Nathaniel Brown, was born in Tennessee in 1804 and was a son of Leonard Brown, probably a native of Virginia, the latter being a participant in the Black Hawk War. Nathaniel came to Claiborne Parish, Louisiana, in 1833, from Tennessee, and located six miles south of Haynesville, where he made a farm on which he resided until 1840, at, which time he located five miles north of Homer, where he improved a plantation of about 900 acres. He aided in the founding of Homer, and here reared his family and gave them the advantages of the common schools.
He has been a member of the Christian Church since 1850, his wife being also a member, her death occurring in 1882 at the age of seventy-one years. Her maiden name was Elizabeth Weakes and she was born in Indiana. At the age of twenty-one years Samuel F. Brown, began life as a planter, a calling he followed two years, at which time he lost his right hand and since 1865 has given his attention successfully to merchandising in Haynesville. In 1873 his marriage with Miss Nettie Thomason, of Arizona, was celebrated, but he was called upon to mourn her death in 1877, she leaving him with three little children to care for: Arthur L., Annie W. and Nettie M. His second marriage was to Miss Mollie O. Thomason, by whom he has two children: James L. and Ruth Garnet, Mr. Brown has always been a Democrat, and he and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church South.

John F. Brownfield is a tiller of the soil who enjoys the reputation of being progressive and intelligent in his views, and well posted on all public matters. He was born on the farm on which he is now residing July 1, 1855, being a son of John M. and Sarah E. (Simontor) Brownfield, and grandson of John Brownfield and Felix Simontor. The parents of John F. were born in Georgia, and there the father grew to manhood, going afterward to Alabama, where he was married, his wife having been reared in that State. After farming in that, State for some six years, he, in 1854, came to Louisiana and purchased the farm in Claiborne Parish, on which the immediate subject of this sketch is now residing.
He cleared and improved this plantation, and prior to the war was the owner of a number of valuable slaves. He was a soldier of the Confederate Army during the Rebellion, serving from 1863 until the close of hostilities, and while in the service showed the pluck, endurance and determination of his Scotch ancestors. He was a prominent member of the Presbyterian Church, and died in September, 1865. His father was a North Carolinian. His widow survives him at this writing, is sixty- three years of age, but is yet hale and hearty.
John P. Brownfield is the second of four sons and three daughters, three sons and one daughter now living. The eldest son, Henry C., being a man of superior mental endowments, was president of Homer College, but was taken sick and died while tilling that position. By profession he was a civil engineer. John P. Brownfield attended the village school, and at the age of seventeen years was left in charge of the home farm, and has continued as its manager ever since, being now its owner. About 200 acres of land are open, and 100 are under cultivation. He is one of the best and thriftiest planters in his ward, and has always been interested in politics, serving as a delegate to State and parish conventions on different occasions.
He is a member of the Baptist Church, belongs to the Farmers' Alliance, and has been president one year in his local order.

William O. Bullock, a well-known citizen of this section of the country, was born in Franklin County, Georgia, September 22, 1805, being a son of William and Spicy (Bowman) Bullock, the former of whom was born in Virginia in 1773. He located in South Carolina early in life, but at a later period moved to Georgia, where he married, and soon after moved to Pike County, Mississippi, in which place he reared his family.
In the State of Mississippi William O. Bullock grew to maturity, and there he was married in 1829 to Miss Sarah, daughter of Samuel Aikin. Although quite a large family was born to them, only four of their children are now living: Zemariah, Miranda, Percy and Monroe. Beyond a doubt Mr. Bullock is the oldest living early settler in Claiborne Parish, for he located where he now resides in 1834, his land being then heavily covered with pine trees.
His estate comprises nearly one section of land and about 200 acres are under cultivation. He is a strong Democrat, his first vote being cast in 1826, and since that time he has never failed to vote in a presidential election. His good wife died in 1.862, and he has remained faithful to her memory ever since. He joined the Methodist Episcopal Church at the age of fourteen years, and from that time until the present he has been a conscientious member, doing all he could to advance the cause of the Master.
Socially he is a member of the A. P. & A. M., having joined that order about 1870. He deservedly bears the reputation of an honest man, the noblest work of God, and has always been progressive in his views, and thoroughly intelligent and well posted on all public matters.

Dr. A. R. Bush is a native of the same parish in which he now resides, his birth occurring in the year 1852. There were only three children in his parents' family: James E. (who was killed in our great Civil War), Aylmer (now a resident of Summerfield, Louisiana), and the immediate subject of this notice.
The father, Dr. James S. Bush, was born in the State of New York about 1811, and came of a family of physicians, descendants of whom are scattered all over the Union. Dr. James S. Bush came to Louisiana at a very early date and settled about twenty-one miles east of Homer, removing about twenty-five years later to Trenton, where he died about 1808. The lady who became his wife was Miss Margaret S. Neyland, a native of Mississippi and a lady of unusual refinement and intelligence. She died in 1868 at the age of forty-seven years.
Dr. A. E. Bush received his early education in the schools of his native parish, afterward taking two courses of lectures in the medical profession at Cincinnati, and graduating from the College of Physicians and Surgeons, Baltimore. He practiced medicine at Gordon for some time, and in 1888 located at Homer, which has since been his home.
Miss Georgia A., daughter of Jesse C. Madden, became his wife in 1884, and to their union three children have been born: Jesse M. P., Aylmer and Dayton H. The last two named are twins.

Alexander H. Caldwell is an industrious, enterprising planter of Claiborne Parish, and as he has at all times endeavored to make life a success, he commands the respect of every worthy citizen. His birth occurred in Choctaw County, Louisiana, April 20, 1847, to Andrew Caldwell, a brother of Thomas Caldwell, whose sketch appears in this history. Alexander H. Caldwell came to this State with his parents in 1851, and in the parish of Bienville he grew to manhood and obtained a common school education. He remained with his father until he was twenty-seven years of age, and in 1874 removed to Claiborne Parish, and engaged in farming in Ward 5, being first associated in this work with a brother.
In this parish he was married on March 2, 1879, the maiden name of his wife being Mattie Leatherman, who was born, reared and educated in Claiborne Parish, a daughter of Thomas Leatherman, one of the pioneers of this section, now a man of seventy years of age. After his marriage Mr. Caldwell rented land for a few years, then purchased an eighty-acre tract of raw land, which he commenced to improve, but soon sold, then buying the plantation on which he is now residing. Although the most of the land was unopened, he set to work at once to improve it, and now has one of the finest plantations, for its size, in the parish. Of the 320 acres which he owns, he has 125 acres under cultivation, on which is a comfortable residence and other good buildings.
As an illustration of Mr. Caldwell's ability as a financier it, may be stated that he began life with no means, but is now in good circumstances. He and his most worthy wife are members of the Missionary Baptist Church, and are parents of five children: Floyd K, Alexander C, Alpha P., Willie Couret and Howard P.

Thomas J. Caldwell is a merchant and planter, residing in Ward 5, Claiborne Parish, Louisiana, but his native birthplace is Conecuh County, Louisiana, where he first saw the light of day in 1835. His parents are Andrew and Elizabeth (McNeel) Caldwell, the birth of the former occurring in Jones County, Georgia, in 1803. His father was James Caldwell, probably a Georgian, and his grandfather was Andrew Caldwell, who was born in Ireland, and came to America at an early day. Andrew Caldwell, the father of Thomas J., was in the war with the Creek Indians, in 1835. He and his wife became the parents of the following family: James (now a resident of Central Arkansas, near Camden), William (of Bienville Parish, Louisiana), Mary (wife of Z. Tilly, of Bienville Parish), Andrew (died in infancy), Thomas J., Columbus C. (now a resident of Claiborne Parish), George (died in infancy), Elizabeth (wife of George Crowley, of Bienville Parish), Lucinda (lived with Thomas J., died. October 28, 1890), John D. (who resides near Liberty Hill, Bienville Parish, Louisiana), Alec H. (a resident of Ward 5, of Claiborne Parish), and Andrew J. (who died in Arcadia, in 1886).

Thomas J. Caldwell remained in the State of Alabama until he was sixteen years of age, then came to Louisiana with his parents, but his early education was obtained in the former State. Upon the opening of the Rebellion he enlisted in Company E, of the Twenty-seventh Louisiana Infantry, under Capt. E. W. Campbell, and the first engagement, in which he took part was at Vicksburg. He served three years, at the end of which time be returned home, without having received a wound.
The year following the close of the war he was united in marriage to Miss Louisa J. Leatherman, a daughter of Thomas Leatherman, and unto them a family of ten children has been born, six of whom are living: Tucker W. (died at the age of fourteen years), Louella (died when three years of age), Thomas J., James E., Elmore, Edna (died at the age of three years), Maggie L., Bee, Nina and Lizzie M. Mr. Caldwell comes of a line of Wigs, but is, himself, an active advocate of Democracy.
He and his wife are members of the Missionary Baptist Church, and are substantial and honored residents of the locality in which they are residing. Mr. Caldwell does a general merchandising business, at Old Athens, besides managing his plantation, which consists of about 1,800 acres, of which some 500 acres are under cultivation, excellently adapted to raising all the products of the South, there being about 100 bales of cotton raised annually.

David A. J. Carathers. In the State of Alabama, in 1830, there was born to Jonathan and L. (Goodwin) Carathers, a son, the subject of this sketch, being one of a family of four children. Both parents were born in Tennessee, but after residing in Alabama for some time, they, in 1845, came to Camden, Arkansas, and three years later to Claiborne Parish, Louisiana In 1801 they went to the Lone Star State, and in Tarrant County the father died in 1873, at the age of seventy-two years. He was the fourth in a family of twelve children, the father of whom, Jonathan Carathers, was born in the Emerald Isle, and he and three brothers came to America, and during the Revolutionary War served in a company under Gen. Washington, coming safely through that struggle, and afterward settling in Tennessee.
In Claiborne Parish, Louisiana, David A. J. Carathers enlisted in Company E, in 1861, but at Huntsville, Louisiana, he was captured, with the most of his company, but he succeeded in making his escape, and afterward rejoined the Confederate Army, this time enlisting in Company F, Ninth Louisiana Infantry, and served the cause he espoused faithfully and well until the close of the war. He was wounded in the battles of Sharpsburg, Winchester, and at Rappahannock Station, being captured at the last named place and sent to Washington City. Mr. Carathers was one of the few Confederate soldiers who saw the Goddess of Liberty raised. Upon the termination of the war he immediately returned to Lisbon, and this place has since been his home.
His marriage to Miss Sarah E. McCasland took place in 1869, and has resulted in the birth of eight children: Lee J., J. Clay, Benjamin P., Minnie, Julia, Mack, J. David and Laura. They are both members of the Missionary Baptist Church, and socially he belongs to the A. P. & A. M. and the I. O. O. P. He has always been an ardent Democrat, and has served as bailiff from 1867 to 1872, and has also been justice of the peace from that time up to the present. Mr. Carathers is quite well fixed, financially, and besides owning a nice residence and seventeen acres of town property he has a good plantation of 400 acres.

Charles O. Cargile, M. D., is a physician of more than ordinary ability, and at an early age displayed an eagerness for study and a desire for a professional life. He was born in Chambers County, Louisiana, in October, 1861, being the eldest of seven children born to Charles J. and Ellen A. (Barrow) Cargile, both of whom were Georgians. Their children are: Charles O., Jimmie W. (wife of Jim Smith, of Shiloh, Louisiana), Ida A., John A. (deceased), Era E., Joel J. and William T. The father was born in Georgia, in 1838, and was the eldest in a family of six children. His parents were natives of North Carolina.
The immediate subject of this sketch was brought to Claiborne Parish by his parents in 1867, and here he has since resided, his early literary education being received in Summerfield and Shiloh. In 1883 he entered the old Atlanta (Georgia) Medical College, from which place he graduated in 1886, his attention since that time being devoted exclusively and successfully to the practice of his profession. He also managed a plantation of about 200 acres, and although he is still a young practitioner, he has shown much skill in the treatment of his cases, and fully deserves the large practice which he commands. He was married to Miss Artie M. Mason, in May, 1886, and both are members of the Missionary Baptist Church. He has always been a Democrat.

Jasper J. Chandler. By close attention to the business affairs of life, and by earnest and persistent endeavor, coupled with strict integrity, Mr. Chandler has become a well-to-do planter of Claiborne Parish, Louisiana He began life for himself with no capital whatever, with the exception of a pair of ponies, but is now in independent circumstances, and upon his valuable and well-improved plantation of 520 acres, he has just completed the erection of a tine steam cotton gin.
He was born in Calhoun County, Louisiana, in 1851, being the fourth in a family of ten children, their names being as follows: Newton (now a resident of Lincoln Parish, Louisiana), Frances (wife of M. Baxter, also of Lincoln Parish), Reuben (who died at the age of eighteen years), Jasper J. (the subject of this biography), Sarah (wife of Joel Clay, of Lincoln Parish), Polly (widow of John Stewart), Susanna (wife of J. Moffett, of Winn Parish, Louisiana), Maria (wife of J. Ham mick), and Venola (wife of Dr. Tarquin), the last two being residents of Lincoln Parish. The father and mother of this family were Stephen and Nancy (Warren) Chandler, both of whom were Georgians.
Jasper J. Chandler came to Louisiana with his parents when but nine years of age, and located in Lincoln Parish, where he attained manhood, and where, in 1872, he was married to Miss Maggie Bailey, a daughter of G. Bailey. Of a family of five children born to them, four are now living. Politically Mr. Chandler has always voted the Democratic ticket, thus standing firmly by the principles he has always believed in.

Richard H. Cleveland, planter, Homer, Louisiana This prominent and much esteemed citizen was originally from Franklin County, Georgia, his birth occurring on June 28, 1823, and was fourth in a family of nine children, who are named as follows: Araminta (became the wife of George Garner, of Franklin County, Georgia, but is now deceased), James M. (resides in Stewart County, Georgia), William (died in infancy), Martha (became the wife of C. Allen, of Georgia), Louisa (married Jack Williams, of Georgia), Oliver C. (resides in Stewart County, Georgia), Benjamin P. (was killed in the battle of Richmond during the war), John G. (was supposed to have been slain in the Mountain Meadow massacre), and Harriet (became the wife of Thomas Johnson, of Stewart County, Georgia, but is now deceased).
The father of these children, Benjamin Cleveland, was born in Franklin County, Georgia, about 1788, and was a son of John Cleveland, who was a native of Virginia. The mother, whose maiden name was Amelia Hooper, was also born in Franklin County, Georgia, and was the daughter of Richard Hooper, who was an old Revolutionary soldier.
Richard H. Cleveland received a common-school education in Georgia, and later started out in life as a planter. He was married, in 1846, to Miss Sarah A. Frost, daughter of Johnson Frost, of Troup County, Georgia, and the fruits of this union were ten children, viz.: W. H. (who died in 1882), Josephine H. (now Mrs. H. L. Featherston, of Homer, Louisiana), John G. (is a resident of Texas), and the following children are deceased: Benjamin L., Judge T, James J., Henry F., Emma C, Sallie R. and Richard H.
During the war Mr. Cleveland was a detailed farmer, and managed three big plantations, the proceeds to be sold at scheduled prices to soldiers. Politically he has been a Democrat from boyhood, and cast his first presidential vote for James K. Polk.
He has been a member of the Masonic fraternity for more than forty years. He owns a plantation of 860 acres, and has as good a one as is to be found in Northwest Louisiana.

A. K. Clingman needs no introduction to the people of this community, for he is the owner of a magnificent plantation near the town of Homer, Louisiana, about 300 acres of which are under cultivation, and on which is one of the finest nurseries in this section of the country, comprising about 250,000 trees and plants. He was born in Clark County, Arkansas, where he grew to maturity and received a good common-school education in various schools of the State, but in 1873 left the land of his birth to take up his abode in Louisiana, and since that time has been devoted to the interests of Homer and Claiborne Parishes. His work here has prospered in every way, and as the property of which he is now the owner has been obtained by his own unaided efforts he deserves the greatest credit for his stability, perseverance and energy. He is at the present time constructing a hotel at Homer, which is to be 60 by 130 feet, two stories in height, and built of brick with an iron front. It, will be admirably fitted up, and every convenience which the traveling public can desire will be at their disposal.
He was married in 1879 to Miss Delia Tankersley, a daughter of J. O. Tankersley, of Homer, and an interesting little family of three children has been born to their union; Annie, Arthur Brandon and Minnie Terrelle. Socially Mr. Clingman is connected with the A. F. & A. M., the I. O. O. F. and the K. of P. He and his wife are earnest members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and have the unbounded respect of all who know them throughout this section, for, besides being liberal in their donations to all worthy enterprises, they are kind, hospitable and public spirited. The intelligent manner in which he has conducted his nursery, and his desire to please and satisfy his patrons, has not with the best of returns, and Mr. Clingman can look forward to a prosperous and pleasant future.
He was one of a family of twelve children, nine of whom lived to maturity, born to A. B. Clingman, who was born in the Old North State, but who located in Arkansas at an early day, and there reared his family. The latter spent his youthful days in Huntsville, North Carolina., being one of four children of Peter Clingman, who was a wealthy German of that place, engaged in the mercantile business. A. K. Cling man had five brothers in the Confederate Army, one receiving a wound at Murfreesboro, from which he died, and two of the others were taken ill and died. The other brother has died since the war, A. K. and two sisters being the only ones of the family now living. Gen. T. L. Clingman, a cousin, was a member of the United States Senate for eight years, and before he was twenty-one years of age he was elected a member of the State Legislature, and has been in public service almost ever since. He resides at Ashton, North Carolina. A. K. Clingman's father was a practicing physician, who died in Arkansas at the age of seventy-four years.

Benjamin Ryan Coleman, parish surveyor and planter, was born on May 12, 1832, in Edgefield District, S. C , and is descended from Revolutionary ancestry, his great-grandfather, Benjamin Ryan, a native of Virginia, being a captain under Gen. Marion. His father, W. G. Coleman, was a captain in the Mexican War from Alabama, and was at one time a member of the Legislature of Louisiana. The latter was married to Miss Frances A. Johnson, of South Carolina, a daughter of William S. Johnson, whose parents were Virginians. He was a learned man, very intelligent, and was a contributor to Nicholson's Encyclopedia and the secular press of South Carolina. Mrs. Coleman, the mother of the subject of this sketch, died when he was but eight years old, leaving three younger children.
He was educated in Edgefield Academy until he was thirteen years of age, then moved with his father to Perry County, Louisiana, where he labored on the farm, and attended the best schools in the county for seven years. In 1850 he moved to Claiborne Parish, Louisiana, and was married three years later to Miss Fidelia N. Melton, of Perry County, Louisiana, a daughter of William Allen Melton, a native of South Carolina, and one of the first families of the State of Alabama. They have lived thirty-seven years together, and the issue of their marriage has been eleven children, six of whom are living.
In his twenty-first year he was elected school director from his ward, and from that time until 1859 he was engaged in school teaching and planting, being then appointed clerk of the district court, to fill a vacancy caused by the death of Enoch B. Whitson. At the end of four years he was re-elected, but at the close of the war was removed from office by J. Madison Wells, radical, governor of Louisiana. He was then appointed notary public in partnership with J. R. Ramsey, was enabled to support his family for twelve months. The loss of his slave property and position as clerk left him poor indeed, but he soon turned to his first occupation of teaching and farming, at which he made a fair living.
In 1872 he was appointed parish surveyor, which position he is holding at the present time. In 1876 he was elected minute clerk of the Legislature, which position he filled three years, and in 1882 was appointed assistant engineer on the fifth residence of the Vicksburg, Shreveport & Pacific Railroad, and helped to build twelve miles west of Arcadia, and in 1880 and 1890 he was census enumerator. He is a member of the Missionary Baptist Church, a Council Mason, a member of the I. O. O. F, and in his political views is a Democrat of the Jeffersonian stamp. He is a clear and rapid penman, is skillful with his pencil, is a tine amateur musician, and is well versed in parliamentary usages.
One of his greatest gifts is his knowledge of woodcraft and surveying, being one of the most, competent of North Louisiana, where he is universally and favorably known. He is the possessor of an abundance of humor and good nature, and has for a number of years been a contributor to the newspapers of his parish and State. He has been successful in the accumulation of worldly goods, and now has a beautiful home and a fine plantation. He holds commissions from every governor of Louisiana for thirty-five years past. He has lived a very active life, and with the assistance of a splendid library which he possesses, and the newspapers that he reads, he keeps fully apace with this progressive age. Possessing the proverbial hospitality of those of his nativity, he is loved by all, and has the esteem and respect of the community at large.

Prof. Thomas A. Coleman is a native of Claiborne Parish, Louisiana, born February 9, 1857, and as he has lived here all his life he is thoroughly well known, and commands the respect and esteem of all. His father, Ben E. Coleman, was a native of South Carolina, who removed to Alabama when a lad of thirteen years, going with his father, William G. Coleman, and settling in Perry County.
The latter was also born in South Carolina, was of Irish descent, and was a captain under Gen. Scott in the Mexican War. About 1850 he removed to Louisiana, and settled, in what is now Claiborne Parish, which he represented in the State Legislature, dying here in 1888, at the age of eighty-three years, having been a very active and prominent man throughout his entire life.
Ben E. Coleman was a young man on coming to this parish, but had been married in Alabama to Miss Fidelia Melton, a native of Alabama, and a sister of Rev. John Melton, of Lisbon. After his marriage he settled on a farm near Homer, and here still makes his home. Although he was given some advantages for acquiring an education in his youth, he is principally self-educated, and is well posted on all the general questions of the day. He served as a clerk of the court, for two terms of four years each, and at the present time is parish surveyor, and at all times and in every duty in life he has shown that he is a man of far more than average intelligence and culture. Prof. T. A. Coleman was educated in Arizona and Baton Rouge, and was appointed professor of mathematics in Homer College, in which capacity he served with ability for one session.
He was married here on January, 23, 1887, to Miss Ida Simmon, a daughter of one of the prominent farmers of the parish, who was educated at Homer Institute. After his nuptials were celebrated he settled on the plantation of 600 acres which he now owns, and by industry has succeeded in putting 300 acres under cultivation, raising annually about sixty bales of cotton. He and his wife have one daughter, Laura D., one year old. They are members of the Missionary Baptist Church, and he belongs to the Farmers Union, and for three years has been its secretary.

Richard W. Collier, merchant, Homer, Louisiana Among the younger merchants of Homer who have worked their way to the front and who today enjoy enviable reputations as first class business men is the subject of this sketch. He was born in Claiborne Parish, near Homer, October 30, 1860, and his parents, B. C. and Nancy L. (White) Collier, were both natives of Georgia, where they were educated. The elder Collier moved from Georgia to Louisiana about 1850, and located in Claiborne Parish, where he was engaged in planting up to the breaking out of the late Civil War. He was one of the first to respond to his country's call, and enlisted in the Confederate Army, where he served faithfully until his death, being killed in the engagement at Mansfield in 1863. Mrs. Collier survived him several years, but is now deceased.
Richard W. Collier is the only survivor of a family of four children. He was reared in Homer, received a good English education at Homer College, and after completing his studies clerked for Mr. G. G. Gill, one of the most successful merchants of Claiborne Parish. He continued with Mr. Gill for about eight years, and during that time laid the foundation for a successful business career. Mr. Collier began business for himself as a member of the firm of Bridgeman, Collier & Co., in December, 1888, and this firm continued in business for about one year. Then Mr. Collier succeeded to the business of the firm. He carries a large stock of general merchandise including dry goods, groceries, clothing, hardware, queens ware, furniture, notions, etc. He has a large store, neatly arranged, and has the reputation of good goods and fair dealing. He has established a large and increasing trade, and is prominent in business circles.
His marriage to Miss Lula M. Taylor, a native of Claiborne Parish, was consummated on May 27, 1883, and the fruits of this union were three children: Eldred B., Lillian and Blanche. Mrs. Collier was reared and educated in this county, and is the daughter of J. M. Taylor. Mr. Collier has held several local positions of trust and honor, and is at present a member of the town council. He is a young man of sterling worth and ability, and one of the leading business men of Homer.

William Wirt Culpepper, M. D., is a Georgian by birth, born in Houston County, October 8, 1834, to Charles S. and Nancy (Cunyus) Culpepper, who were born, reared and married in Georgia, removing to Louisiana about 1850, and settling in Jackson Parish. The mother having died in 1818, the father married again and reared a family by his last wife. He passed from life in 1872. Dr. William Wirt Culpepper attained manhood in Jackson Parish, Louisiana, and in 1801, left home to enlist in the Confederate Army, becoming a member of the Second Louisiana Infantry, and served until he received his discharge for disability from a wound which he had received. He was in the engagements at Great Bethel Church and Malvern Hill, and on the last day of the seven days' fight he was wounded in the right knee by grape shot and permanently disabled. After being in the hospital for some time he was furloughed home, where' he was afterward elected sheriff of Jackson Parish, and this position he held for about two years.
Soon after arriving at mature years he began the study of medicine, and took his first course of lectures at New Orleans in 1855, and had practiced some prior to the opening of the Rebellion. He once more began practicing, after finishing his duties as sheriff, going soon after to Rapides Parish, where he remained some three years. In 1869 he again went, to Now Orleans and took a second course of lectures, and in the spring of 1870 was graduated as an M. D., locating soon after in Webster Parish, where he remained for some ten years.
On January 7, 1880, he moved to Claiborne Parish, and has been practicing in the vicinity of Athens ever since, and has become widely and favorably known in his social life as well as professional capacity. In connection with his practice be has of late years also carried on a farm, at which he is doing well.
He was married in Jackson Parish, on February 14, 1865, to Miss Anna I, Barnes, a native of Mississippi, but reared in Louisiana, by her father, James Barnes. She died in 1873, leaving two sous: James Curran and William Tell. The Doctor's second marriage took place in 1876, to Miss Anna Isabelle Hise of this State and parish, a daughter of Aaron Hise, by whom he has four children: Charles Stewart, Joseph Hiram, Vernon Hise and Winfred Wirt. The Doctor and his wife are members of the Missionary Baptist Church, and he is an A. F. & A. M.

Alonzo H. Dawson, farmer and merchant, also ginner and manufacturer of lumber, was born in Chambers County, Louisiana, April 12, 1850, and is the son of O. H. P. Dawson. The latter was born in the Palmetto State, but was reared in Alabama, where he was married to Miss Sarah A. Spinks, a native of Georgia. Mr. Dawson followed farming in Alabama until 1859, and then located in Claiborne Parish, Louisiana He made a large farm near Haynesville, and there he and his estimable wife now reside, somewhat advanced in years, but still hale and hearty. Mr. Dawson served in the late war. Alonzo H. Dawson and six brothers and four sisters, of the above-mentioned couple, came with his parents to Louisiana in 1859, received a common school education in Claiborne Parish, and remained under the parental roof until twenty-seven years of age. He then started out for himself as an agriculturist.
He located in Ward No. 7 in 1882, bought a steam saw mill and engaged in the lumber, also gin business, which he has continued up to the present time. He also bought a farm in this parish in 1885, and has built a nice, neat dwelling-house, besides improving it very materially in other respects. He has about, 700 acres, all in a body, and has 500 of this under cultivation. Mr. Dawson makes a specialty of cotton, averaging about 100 bales annually. He commenced empty handed, and what he has accumulated is the result of his own industry and perseverance. He was married in this parish in 1878, to Miss Virginia C. Taylor, a native of Georgia, and the daughter of Jonathan Taylor.
Mrs. Dawson was reared and educated in this parish. The fruits of this union were three living children; Gulliver W., Lafayette and Ernest. They lost one, Fred, in infancy. Mr. and Mrs. Dawson are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and he is one of the trustees in the same. He was formerly a member of the Farmers' Union. In 1885 he started a store here, and has been in the mercantile business ever since. He carries a general stock and is doing a fair business for a country store. He is a good business man, and is energetic and enterprising.

John William Dawson is a cotton planter, and for the last eighteen years has been a general merchant at, Lisbon, Claiborne Parish, Louisiana, and like many, and perhaps the most of the representative citizens of this parish, he is a Georgian. His birth occurred in Heard County, about forty miles from the city of Atlanta, April 13, 1842, and he was the fifth of a family of ten children, four sons and six daughters, born to Robert and Sarah A. (Toombs) Dawson, natives of Georgia. The father was an agriculturist by calling, a well-known local politician, and died near Lisbon, Louisiana, at the age of seventy-three years. Mr. J. W. Dawson's father was a cousin of Gen. Toombs, of Georgia, and his brother, Toombs Dawson, is a resident of Claiborne Parish, Louisiana, and is a well known and thrifty planter. The paternal grandfather was a Virginian, and the maternal ancestor was a Georgian.
John William Dawson attended the select schools of this parish in his youth, but the Rebellion broke in upon his scholastic life, and he was forced, much against his will, to relinquish his school work. On April 21, 1801, he joined the Claiborne Guards, Second Louisiana Infantry Volunteers, when only seventeen years of age, and was sent to Virginia, the first twelve mouths being spent at Yorktown under Gen. McGruder. He afterward took part in the following battles: The first battle of the war at Bethel Church, Malvern Hill, seven days fight around Richmond, Winchester, and the battles in the Valley of Virginia, Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, Sharpsburg, Harper's Ferry, Gettysburg, Mine-run, the Wilderness (where he was wounded in the right hand), the siege of Petersburg and the retreat to Appomattox Court House, where he heard the last cannon of the Rebellion fired. He secured as a relic a piece of the apple tree under which Gen. Lee surrendered, and at that place he bade an affectionate farewell to his beloved and honored chieftain, who, when trying to bid his faithful followers farewell broke down and wept. At the surrender of Lee, the company to which Mr. Dawson belonged, numbered only eleven men which, on starting out had been 120 strong. The names of those who surrendered at Appomattox are: Capt. A. S. Blythe, Sergt, W. C. Hightower and Privates J. G. Meadows, J. A. Reed, T. J. Monk, W. G. Cooksey, P. P. Coleman, P. A. Williams, C. B. Harrison, Orderly Sergt. J. W. Dawson, and a colored man by the name of Stark Glover, who acted as cook.
Mr. Dawson returned home via Fortress Monroe and New Orleans, and for some time gave his attention to farming, and as a result has a valuable plantation comprising 600 acres, 250 of which are tillable land, and the products from this and the proceeds of his mercantile establishment furnish him with all the necessities, and many of the luxuries of life. He has always sustained the principles of Democracy, and although he has never been a very active politician, he has never failed to cast his vote, but took care that it should be for men of worth. He belongs to the Methodist Episcopal Church South, of Lisbon, his wife having also been a member prior to her death, and for the just twenty-two years he has devoted himself to church work, being always a liberal contributor to enterprises which he thought deserving.
On November 24, 1870, he married Miss Matilda O. Willis, who was born in Claiborne Parish, Louisiana, in 1850; but alter a happy married life of twenty years her Master called her and found her ready. She died on July 2, 1890, having been a noble and faithful wife and mother, and is now sleeping in Lisbon Cemetery, where a beautiful monument marks her last resting place, a tribute to her memory by her sorrowing husband. To them six sons and four daughters were born, three of the ten dying in infancy, leaving seven living: Mollie Maude, John W., Nannie V., Linus P., Aubin, Sallie Will and Tillie Blanche. Mr. Dawson has many warm friends in this section, and here, surrounded by his children, he expects to spend the rest of his days.

Oliver H. P. Dawson has for years been prominently before the public, as a leading agriculturist of Claiborne Parish, Louisiana, but was born in Edgefield District, South Carolina, April 14, 1824, to Capt. Lemuel G. and Polly (Glanton) Dawson, who were born, reared and married in South Carolina, removing about, 1827 to Alabama, and resided in Chambers County until his death in 1848, being one of the first settlers of the eastern portion of that State. He served in the War of 1812, was in some of the engagements with the Indians, and in 1836 was captain of a company, being afterward drilling officer and major-general of militia. His widow survived him until 1876, when she, too, passed away. Oliver H. P. Dawson grew to manhood in Chambers County, Louisiana, receiving the advantages of country schools, and on January 20, 1846, was married to Miss Sarah A. Spinks, a native of Georgia, being reared and educated in that State.
Mr. Dawson continued to farm in that State until 1860, then removed to Louisiana, and proceeded to open up a farm in Claiborne Parish near the State line, on which he is now living. He has 500 acres of land, the greater portion of which is under cultivation, well improved with a commodious and substantial residence and good outbuildings. In 1803 he enlisted in Company F, of Col. McNeil's regiment, in which he served until the close of the war, his service being confined principally to Louisiana and Arkansas. He and his wife reared eleven children to maturity, ten of whom are living at the present time; L. N. O. W. (now deceased), Alonzo H. (a sketch of whom appears in this work), E. P., O. H. V., Emma E. (wife of James Moore of Homer, Louisiana), J. S., William Y. (a sketch of whom also appears herein), Mary L. (wife of Dr. South Carolina Waller of Welcome, Arkansas), Sallie (wife of B. T. Collier), and Izona E.
Mr. Dawson has been a Mason for forty years, and his wife is a member of the Baptist Church.

William Y. Dawson is a member of the mercantile firm of Longino & Dawson, of Haynesville, Louisiana He was born in this parish on June 30, 1861, being the youngest son of O. H. P. Dawson, a sketch of whom precedes this.
His education was obtained in Haynesville Academy, and after remaining with his father until he was twenty-one years of age, he took a commercial course in the Little Rock Commercial College, returned to Haynesville, October 22, 1882, and there engaged as book-keeper for W. P. Longino. In January, 1888, he became a partner, purchasing a half interest in the entire business. When Mr.
Dawson first entered as salesman for Mr. Longino the business amounted to about $3,000 per year, but by the untiring energy and business integrity of Mr. Dawson, they now do a business of $50,000 per year, and have established a reputation for fine goods and fair prices second to none in the parish. Theirs is one of the most substantial firms of this portion of the State, and as Mr. Longino has retired from active duty, Mr. Dawson has the full management of the establishment, and well does he discharge his duties. It is to his able management that the business has been increased to its present admirable proportions, and in connection with this business they handle cotton, and this year will ship about 600 bales. Mr. Dawson was elected postmaster of Haynesville in the fall of 1888.

Dr. J. W. Day is an able and a highly successful medical practitioner of Dykesville and the surrounding country. He is a Georgian, born in 1834, to Nathan and Martha E. B. (Cole) Day, both of whom were born in South Carolina, the birth of the former occurring about 1806. He was a son of Jonathan Day, who is supposed to have been born in England, but who came to America in early life and afterward took sides with the colonists in their struggle for liberty with the mother country. The wife of Nathan Day was a daughter of Samuel Cole of South Carolina, and to her union with Mr. Day two children were born: Sarah M, (who became the wife of John L. Hurst, of Rosston, Arkansas, and died in 1887, leaving a family of ten children), and Dr. J. W. Day.
The latter attained manhood in this parish, and was given the advantages of the common schools, in which he made rapid progress in his studies, as he was quick to grasp at new ideas, possessed a retentive memory, and at all times applied himself to his tasks. In 1857 he graduated from the Augusta Medical College, but prior to this had been married in 1853 to Miss Nancy J. Galloway, of Georgia, and with her came to Claiborne Parish in 1860, where they have reared two of three children that have been born to them; James N. (a planter of Webster Parish) and Montrose (a practicing physician in partnership with his father). Bonnie Z. is deceased.
The Doctor was an old-line Whig until the opening of the Rebellion, since which time he has been identified with the Democratic Party. Socially he belongs to the A. F. & A. M., the K. of P. and L. of H., and Mrs. Day is a worthy member of the Missionary Baptist Church.

William W. DeLoach is a planter of Claiborne Parish, Louisiana He is one of the most successful agriculturists of this region, and one whose honesty has never been questioned. He is a Georgian, born in Crawford County, March 31, 1832, to John and Elizabeth (Sawyer) De Loach, both of whom were born in South Carolina, after their marriage removing from Crawford County, Georgia, to Harris County of that State, thence to Louisiana, in 1847, being one of the pioneers of Claiborne Parish. He opened up a farm two and a half miles south of where Homer now stands, and here made his home until 1862, when he moved to the northwest portion of the parish, and afterward died at the residence of a son, in 1889, at the age of eighty-six years.
He served in the war with the Creek Indians, and at the time of his death had been a resident of Claiborne Parish for forty-five years. His first wife died when the subject of this sketch was an infant, and he was afterward married again. W. W. De Loach came to this State and parish when a lad of sixteen years, and here attained manhood, receiving a common school education. After remaining with his father until he attained his majority, he was married in August, to Miss M. E. Shaw, a daughter of John Shaw, and a native of Greene County, Georgia, where she was reared and educated.
After his marriage, until 1855, Mr. De Loach was engaged in overseeing, but at the end of that time came to his present place of abode, where he has since made his home. Although he commenced life with very limited means, he has become the owner of a good plantation of 320 acres, but now has only 160 acres, as he has given the rest to his children, having at the present time 70 acres under cultivation. His residence and buildings are all excellent, and he is now prepared to spend the rest of his days in enjoying the goods his means will provide. In 1862 he enlisted in the Thirteenth Louisiana Battalion, serving until the war ceased, participating in some skirmishes and scouting. He and his wife have six children: E. F. (wife of Thomas Holt), John A., Mollie (wife of D. G. Owens), George M., M. W. and Irene. Mr. and Mrs. De Loach are members of the Missionary Baptist Church, and he has served as church clerk for a number of years. He is a Master Mason, a member of the Farmers' Union, and as a neighbor and citizen is all that could be desired.

George H. Dismukes needs no special introduction to the inhabitants of Claiborne Parish, Louisiana, for he is the well-known editor and proprietor of the Southern Agriculturist, a weekly paper, which is ably edited, and published in the direct interests of the agriculturist Mr. Dismukes established this live and progressive journal on May 29, 1890, and in the brief space of three mouths it reached a circulation of about 800.
He is a native Tennessean. born on March 13, 1853, being the eighth of ten children, six sons and four daughters, of whom there are seven living: Paul (who is married and is an agriculturist find school teacher of Columbia County, Arkansas), Elizabeth (widow of B. M. Jones, formerly a merchant of Searcy, Arkansas). Sallie (wife of Judge R. H. Howell, of Lewisville, Arkansas), Thomas (who is a Benedict and a well-known physician and surgeon of Walnut Hill, Arkansas), Mark (who is an attorney at law and a partner of Hon. W. H. Jack, of Natchitoches, Louisiana), George H. (the subject of this sketch), and Sue (wife of P. A. Robertson, a pharmacist of Searcy, Arkansas). The father of Mr. Dismukes was a native of Virginia, and was an agriculturist up to the time of his death, which occurred when he was about seventy-five years of age. He (as well as his widow, who yet survives him) was educated in the old-time subscription schools, and although the latter has attained to the advanced age of seventy-six years, she is yet hale and hearty. George H. Dismukes obtained his first educational training in subscription schools, but being fond of his books he improved the opportunities given him, and at the present time is a first rate scholar. At the age of twenty years he began teaching school, a calling that received his undivided attention for about four years, the birch being wielded by him in the State of Arkansas.
He then started out as a merchant, but after a short time resumed teaching, and finally went into the newspaper business at Magnolia, Arkansas, which place was his home for twelve months. He established the Columbia Echo, but afterward went to Haynesville, Louisiana, and gave to the public the Haynesville Star, but later disposed of it and came to Homer, where he could be more centrally located in the agricultural region, and here, on May 29, 1890, the first number of the Southern Agriculturist was issued, of which he is sole proprietor and manager at the present time. He has shown sound judgment in choosing his present field, and the outlook augurs well for his success.
Thus far this sketch has shown very plainly that Mr. Dismukes is truly a self-made man, and that he had to encounter many of the adversities which usually fall to the lot of men who have made their own way in the world. Upon entering upon an independent career, his sole capital consisted of a pair of willing hands, backed by an active and intelligent mind and a sufficient amount of energy to make a proper use of the talents given him. He has met with some hard luck since entering upon the journalistic sea, for while at Haynesville, Louisiana, his first class printing outfit was consumed by fire, this misfortune befalling him two months after starting. Mr. Dismukes has always upheld the principles of Democracy, and his first presidential vote was cast for Samuel J. Tilden. He has been active in his own way as an editor, in supporting measures he deemed most wise and beneficial to the people's interests, and his influence has been felt by all with whom he has come in contact. While a resident of Nevada County, Arkansas, he, in 1880, made the race for representative of his county, and proved formidable in the field, although defeated.
He is a member of the Farmers' Alliance, and is a strong supporter of the principles of that order. On March 9, 1890, he was married to Miss Sallie G. Lewis, who was born in Arkansas in 1853, her education being received in a seminary of Mount Holly, Arkansas Her father was an agriculturist and an honorable, upright, man. Mrs. Dismukes is a devout and earnest member of the Presbyterian Church, and she and Mr. Dismukes expect to make the town of Homer their future abiding place, where they already have many warm friends.

William W. Dormon, manufacturer of wagons, and general dealer in buggies, carts, harness and shelf hardware, Homer, Louisiana The industries of Homer are principally of an important character, ably and successfully carried on, the products being such as to have secured for this southern town a reputation of which any might well be proud. Prominent among the industries here is the manufacture of wagons, the name most prominently identified with that industry being that of William W. Dormon. This gentleman is a native of Claiborne Parish, and was born on February 10, 1857, and is a son of J. M. and Martha J. (Shepard) Dormon, the father and mother were natives of Alabama. J. M. Dormon was reared to mature years in Alabama, and after his marriage (1840) moved to Louisiana, where he settled in Claiborne Parish. He was a farmer and manufacturer, and resided in this parish until his death in September, 1880, at the age of fifty-five years. During the war he served one year in the army and then came home, where he worked under government contract, manufacturing cotton and wool cards for the working up by band of cotton and wool for clothes.
After the war he began farming, and carried on a large plantation in Ward No. 6. Previous to the war he was the owner of a goodly number of slaves. He served in several local offices, and later moved to Arcadia, where he resided several years engaged in manufacturing and repairing wagons, etc. He was the owner of a number of patents of his own invention, the most valuable being three patent plows. For years the plowman of North Louisiana, he did more than any other one man to introduce improved farming implements into North Louisiana. His widow survives him. He was very liberal with his means, assisting in every way the soldiers' widows during the war, and would, no doubt, have been very wealthy had he been less liberal. He raised a family of nine children, six sons and three daughters, seven of whom are now living. Of these William W. Dormon is the fourth in order of birth.
He attained his growth in Claiborne Parish, received a fair business and English education at Arcadia, and after completing his studies learned the blacksmith's trade. He then opened a blacksmith and repair shop, and added to this until he now carries a large stock of buggies, carriages, wagons, hardware, harness, etc., and i now has a good business. He has an engine and: machinery for manufacturing purposes, and also does a large repair business, and employs ten men. He is an excellent manager, and one of the enterprising men of the town.
His nuptials with Miss D. P. Barrow, a native of Claiborne Parish, were celebrated on January 4, 1883, and they have two children: Anna and Willie. Mrs. Dormon was educated here, and is a graduate of Homer College. She is the daughter of Rev. Joseph us and Elizabeth Barrow, the father a minister of the Primitive Baptist Church previous to his death. He was a prominent man, was a large slave owner, and was a member of the Louisiana Legislature. Mr. and Mrs. Dormon are members of the Baptist Church.

Col. James J. Duke is possessed of those advanced ideas and progressive principles regarding agricultural life which seem to be the chief prerogative of the average native of Georgia. He was born in Morgan County, December 9, 1819, being one in a family of nine children, their names being as follows: Bailey O. (died in Louisiana), Ferdinand (died, and left, a family in Georgia). Gibson (also died, and left a family in that State), Sebum J. (left a widow and children in Georgia), Col. James J. (comes next in order of birth), Elizabeth J. (who married David Zachariah, of Georgia, is also deceased), Martha A. (married William Browning, of Georgia, and is now deceased), Polly A. (is now Mrs. J. B. Tally, of Atlanta, Arkansas), and Lucy M. (is now Mrs. Dr. E. W. White, of Roanoke. Randolph County, Louisiana). The father of these children, Henry Duke, was a Georgian, born about 1780, his father being Thomas Duke.
In the State of his birth Col. James J. Duke grew to maturity, and there met and was married to Miss Atlanta P. Tate, the nuptials of their marriage being celebrated in 1844, she being a daughter of James Tate, a native of Virginia. They were very happily mated, and in due process of time, a family of ten children gathered around their hearthstone: Roan (who passed from life while an infant), Mary F. (now Mrs. J. W. Cooksey, a widow, of Claiborne Parish), Martha L., Elizabeth A. (wife of William Meadows, of Lisbon, Louisiana), Robert G. (died in infancy), James P. H , Lucy M. (Mrs. T. Meadows of Summerfield, Louisiana), Josephine (who died at the age of thirteen years), Eugenie G. (at home), and Zolly C. (who died, leaving a widow and one child).
Col. Duke came to Claiborne Parish, Louisiana, in February, 1862, and located on the fine and extensive plantation on which he is now residing, his acreage extending over more than four sections, he being also the owner of one section of land in Columbia County, Arkansas He was called upon to enter the service in 1864, but served only a short time. Politically he was an old-line Whig, until the Rebellion, but since that time he bus been a pure Democrat, at all times supporting the men and measures of that party, taking an active part in putting the best men forward for office. His ability, and thorough and sound knowledge of the general topics of the day were recognized in 1876, and he was elected to the Slate Legislature from this parish, and proved himself to be an able and competent legislator, having the interests of the people strongly at heart.
Socially he is a Royal Arch Mason, and has been since 1850, his union with the Methodist Episcopal Church dating from 1856. Through good management and energy, Mr. Duke has become the owner of his present property, and he may well be classed among the self-made men of his day. As his views on all matters are sound, and as he is undoubtedly honorable in every particular, and kind and generous in disposition, he has the universal esteem of all. His wife, who died in 1877, was a lady of much intelligence, and was a true Christian the greater part of her life.

John M. Dunn is a planter of Ward 2, of Claiborne Parish, Louisiana, but was born in Howard County, Missouri, in 1833, being the youngest of nine children born to James and Martha (Morrison) Dunn, native Kentuckians, the birth of the former occurring about 1800. He was a son of James Dunn, who was born in Ireland, but who came to America in an early day. John M. Dunn received a good common-school education in Benton County, Missouri, and on starting out in life for himself began following that calling to which he had been reared at that of farming and stock trading. He had accumulated a good competency and was in good circumstances until Fremont's army reached his place, when they destroyed a great deal of valuable property and drove off his stock, leaving him badly crippled, financially.
In 1804 he went to California, where he followed miffing until 1806, then for some time was engaged in lumbering in Nevada, after which he visited Mexico, following mining here also. He was in Mexico at the time Maximilian undertook to establish his government in that country. From this country he returned to Missouri, and after remaining there until 1868 he came to Claiborne Parish, Louisiana, where he has become the owner of a fine plantation of 600 acres, about 300 acres of which are under cultivation and devoted to the usual products of the South. Politically he has at all times affiliated with the Democrat party. He is a happy old bachelor, who has the respect and goodwill of fill who know him.

Contributed 06 Mar 2026 by Norma Hass, extracted from 1890 Biographical and Historical Memoirs of Northwest Louisiana, pages 402-463.

---