Selmer Newspaper Clippings for 1923

June 22, 1923

Mrs. Nancy Derryberry

The above is a picture of Mrs. Nancy Derryberry, widow of N.L.C. Derryberry, one of the sturdy citizens of this county, who died many years ago.

Mrs. Derryberry is in her 93rd year and lives with one of her sons, J. Mansel, on the old home place, near Chewalla, within 150 yards of where she was born, March 5, 1831. She is the oldest daughter of John M. Barnhill, a prominent citizen of the county for 50 years. She is a sister of J.T. (Taylor) Barnhill, an eminent lawyer and a beloved citizen of Selmer at the time of his death many years ago.

Mrs. Derryberry is the mother of seven children, six of whom are living, as follows:

W.W., J.C., A.D., and J.M. all prosperous farmers of this county; Cynthia, wife of J.W. Ledbetter, of Chewalla; and Bettie, wife of Thos. J. Hurley of Memphis.

She has 31 grandchildren, 21 of whom are living; 29 great grandchildren, of whom 19 are living.

She recently celebrated her 93rd birthday. A large crowd of her friends, besides her children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and other relatives were present. Rev. A.H. Lamon, of Rutherford, preached a sermon appropriate to the occasion.

The Independent rejoices that these good old mothers are permitted through God's providence, to dwell so long among us "wearing the rich, full honors of their early toils and tears." Their presence is a benediction and their absence will be to us a sacred memory. God bless them.

APRIL 27, 1923

H. J. Dancer Dead

H. J. Dancer, one of the pioneer citizens of the county, died at his home near Ramer, April 24, 1923. He was buried in the Ramer cemetery the following afternoon in the presence of a large congregation. Elder J. A. Houston conducted the funeral.

Mr. Dancer was a unique character in many respects, plain spoken of speech, old fashioned in his habits and manners and a representative of the old school. He kept informed on current topics, and was always ready and willing to discuss matters and men and to express his opinion.

He leaves surviving him three children, Frank and John Dancer, and Miss Lottie Gooch His wife died sometime ago. The deceased had been in declining health for a long time.

He was a devout member of the Cumberland Presbyterian church identified for a long time with Mt. Vernon, now the Ramer church.

ANOTHER OLD CITIZENS DEAD

Matt Richardson, past the four score mark, died last Tuesday at his home in the southwest part of the county after a long illness. Thursday at the old Kirk graveyard his remains were laid to rest beside those of his wife who preceded him several years. Rev. L. V. Kirk conducted the funeral services.

One by one these dear old people are passing to join that great throng over and beyond the dark river into that beautiful land where broken hearts are healed and where family circles are never broken.

AN OLD LANDMARK GONE

John Doles, 82 years old, who has lived for over half a century in the 18th district, died April 15th, at his home. His death was brought about by infirmities incident to old age.

His remains were laid to rest on the top of one of the high hills of the 18th district, the grave being dug at a spot he selected himself 30 years ago. The funeral service was conducted by his old friend, Rev. L. V. Kirk, Monday afternoon.

The deceased is survived by his age wife and three sons and three daugthers to whom we extend our sympathy.

DIED IN CALIFORNIA

George Baldy, the son of Mr. and Mrs. W. H. Baldy, of Henderson, died in California on the 17th day of May 1923, and his remains were brought to Henderson on the 25th, where they were laid to rest in the cemetery there. Elder J. A. Houston, a relative, conducted the funeral services. The deceased was a most exemplary young man, and had just started upon a business career in his far - away adopted state. His mother was a former McNairian, being the daugther of the late R. P. Meeks. A message came to his parents announcing the serious illness of their son on the 17th. His father immediately started for his bedside, but death came to the son the same day. Without knowing of his death, his father continued on the journey and accompanied the remains of his son back to the old home. Deep sympathy for the bereaved is offered.

CELEBRATES 76th BIRTHDAY

Uncle Gib Wilson celebrated his 76th birthday Sunday at his home in west Selmer and had as his guest his sons, Hubert Wilson of Selmer and Artie Wilson of Jackson, and his daugther Mrs. J. E. Hamilton of Selmer.

MT. GILEAD NEWS

The infant of Mr. and Mrs. L. D. Evans was buried Monday in the Mt. Gilead cemetery.

D. C. Kiestler and wife are visiting relatives in Missouri. During Mr. Kiestler's absence, Ed Lee Cox is running the general mercantile store of Mr. Kiestler.

AGED CITIZENS DIES

Saturday morning May 26, 1923 J. D. Hunter, one of the oldest citizens of the county passed away at his home in the lower second district. He had been in falling health for a number of years. The deceased was a younger brother of the late Capt. H. A. Hunter, and was one of the solid and substantial citizens of his section. He had reared a large family, and is survived by his children, Mrs. Clay Gibson, Mrs. Bruce Hines, Mrs. Lem Smith, Tom Forrest, Sim, Jim and Fran Hunter, and his wife, Mrs. Mary Hunter. The deceased was an ex - confederate soldier. Funeral services were conducted at the home, and his body laid to rest in the old burying ground on the place where he had lived for so long a time. And so it is that these old people are fast departing this life. Rev. J. B. Maxedon and Brown conducted the funeral services.

BETHEL SPRINGS

Marvin Devault left Friday for Memphis where he was called to attend the funeral of his sister - in - law, Mrs. Kirk Devault.

Harrison Cheatham of Henderson has been visiting his sister, Mrs. Troy Etheridge, the past week.

Mr. and Mrs. John Motley spent Sunday with relatives at Henderson.

Mrs. W. T. Pigott and sons Stovall and Richard, of Tupelo, Miss. are visiting in Bethel this week.

AUGUST 17, 1923

BETHEL SPRINGS NOTES

Ham Booth and two sons and father spent a part of Saturday in Bethel. We are always glad to see Ham. He left, here a few years ago and moved to Success, ARK. where he has made a success farming. He believes he will be able to gather seventy five bales of cotton this season off of one hundred acres of land.

Miss Mary Etta Cheatham of Henderson spent the week - end with her sister, Mrs Troy Etheridge.

Rev. J. C. Rhodes and family of Atlanta, GA. are visiting their parents, J. R. Stovall and wife.

GRAVELHILL

Mr. and Mrs. J. A. Littlejohn of Dallas County, Texas are visiting relatives here this week. They motored through in four days.

Carroll Hamm of Martin was visiting relatives and old acquaintances here last week, for the first time in fifty years.

Mesdames L. H. Prince and J. B. Hopkins ? are visiting their son and brother, Marcus Prince, in Birmingham, who is slowly recovering from an operation for appendicitis.

South Brownsville, PA.

Will T. Swain.

OCTOBER 12, 1923

CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION

On the 8th day of October 1823, Wm. Carroll, Governor of Tennessee, signed the Act creating McNairy county. A few weeks ago it was decided that the memorable event should be celebrated in the most appropriate manner possible. So the under taking was launched with W. E. Abernathy as Chairman of the movement. He gathered about him a crop of men and women devoted to the county, cherishing the memories of those grand - old pioneers, and enthusiastic, for their zeal to do them honor. The movement soon grew in popular favor, and all joined in to make the occasion the greatest event in the history of the county.

Two days were planned, for Selmer, and one for Purdy. How well it succeeded is told by the largest crowd ever assembled in the county at Selmer, and one of the largest ever seen in Purdy. Both days were overflowing with happiness and not one thing at either place happened to disturb the joyous moments of the two days. There was not the least confusion in carrying out the programs, at both meetings, Terry Abernathy had been elected as master of ceremonies for the Selmer meeting, and on invitation he filled the same position at Purdy.

Col J. W. Purviance, a resident of McNairy county since 1858, and one of the first citizens of Selmer, delivered the address of Welcome at the Selmer meeting, and responded to the address of Welcome at the Purdy meeting. Mayor J. E. Vinson of Selmer, delivered the welcome address upon behalf of the town of Selmer, after Rev. R. M. Vauhgn had delivered the invocation.

Responses to addresses of Welcome were delivered by Hon. J. L. Littlefield, of Adamsville, Hon. Frank S. Elgin, of Memphis, and Hon. J. D. Johnson, of Jackson. Mr. Littlefield represented one of the oldest families of the county, and a section in which many of the old pioneers settled. Mr. Elgin cast his lot with the people of McNairy, twenty - eight years ago, but for many years has lived in Memphis. Mr. Johnson's great grandfather was one of the early setters of this county and his uncle was its first representative.

In the afternoon the program was opened with an address by Hon. Grant Mathews. No speaker has ever appeared before a McNairy county audience so popular as Grant Mathews. He never fails to entertain and his speech on this occasion added to his reputation as a great platform operator.

Hon. L. D. Tyson, of Knoxville, delivered a most interesting address and described vividly the great drive when the American boys broke the Hindenbury line. Gen. Tyson and W. K. Abernathy were rival candidates for the House Speakership in 1903, the former winning then and the latter in 1904. Mr. Abernathy`presented Gen Tyson to the audience in a most happy manner.

Prof. C. Majors gave a historical review of the county which greatly interested this crowd.

The veterans of the Civil War, many of whom occupied reserved seats on the platform, were represented by sons of veterans Horry Hodges for the Blue, Arch Houston for the Gray. Many interesting features made up the day's program.

Uncle Josh Dixon, eighty - nine year old, appeared before the crowd and exhibited a limb from an apple tree planted by his father one hundred years ago. He also exhibited a (slave) pronounced slay, used in making cloth over fifty years ago.

Dock Lock showed a shaving outfit and a pair of spectacles used a hundred years ago.

The most interesting feature of the day was the presentation to the crowd, unexpectedly by Terry Abernathy, master of ceremonies, of three sets of twins, all fine healthy children under eight years old, of Felix Taylor and wife of the first district, Mr. Taylor said they composed just half of his family, there being six others at home. Mr. Taylor is forty six years old and his wife is forty. The generous and appreciative crowd gave the youngsters several dollars as a Centennial present.

A big feature of the day at Selmer was parade by the school children of the county.

AT PURDY

The day at Purdy was happily spent in the big auditorium that held the crowd for six hours with an intermission of a few minutes for dinner while a great program was rendered. Rev. Cody, of Dyer, conducted the devotional exercises, followed by a beautiful address of welcome by Mrs. Ophelia Williams. Responses were made by Col. J. W. Purviance, Hon. J. L. Littlefield, and Hon. W. V. Barry, editor of the Lexington Progress. Mr. Barry is the son of Dr. Dan Barry at one time the leading doctor of McNairy county.

Arch Houston addressed the crowd in the morning, upon the achievements of the descendants of the early settlers. After dinner an interesting history of Purdy prepared by Jeff Walker which will be printed later in the paper was read by Terry Abernathy. C. A. Lipford of Memphis, and Dr. Jim Curry of Adamsville, former students of the old college under Prof. M. R. Abernathy, spoke a few words in praise of the old town and school and their old teachers. Mrs. Purdy of Henderson expressed her pleasure over the occasion. The town was named after her ancestors.

Rev. Ralston entertained the crowd with a drill and concert and quotations from the Bible by over one hundred of his pupils. It was inspiring to see them engage in this wonderful exercise.

W. M. Brown of Selmer, who was sheriff of the county when the county site was moved to Selmer, appeared before the crowd and exhibited a lambskin Masonic Apron, worn by his father seventy - five years ago, when the cornerstone was laid for the old brick church at Purdy.

J. R. Stovall of Bethel Springs, was called for and he rose in the crowd. He was greeted with much applause. Mr. Stovall was sheriff of McNairy county six years.

A powder horn made in 1749 and a pair of spectacles as old, now the property of H. G. Gooch, of Selmer were exhibited to the crowd. These articles have been in the Gooch family nearly one hundred and seventy - five years. They were brought to this county by Thomas Gooch from South Carolina and upon his death in this county at the age of one hundred years, they went into the hands of his son, Jno. G. Gooch, for years Chairman of the county Court, H. C. Gooch, his son, now possesses people and institutions; with more sentiment in his southland with a firmer resolve to begin the new century with renewed hope, loftier ambition, and a more fixed determination to bring about and foster that spirit of fraternalism, brotherly love and kindness so necessary in these times.

As President of the Centenennial Association, I take occasion to express my gratitude to the people of the county for the earnest co - operation they have shown, I desire to express my thanks to the various committees and their chairman for their times and attention given to the work. On this connection I shall not fail to mention Lany Beaty, Publicity Chairman and the McNairy Independent. They told of the event to the Entertainment, the arrangement, Program. History and Biography, Transportation, and other committees did their part. They overlooked no detail to make the celebration a success. So many helped, that I will not further enumerate.

It is now history, and we all rejoice that we were permitted to witness the closing of the century with its sorrows and joys, its failures and its triumphs; as achievements and development, and then to view the oncoming century with its wonderful possibilities.

With best wishes for all who live in the county and for McNairians wherever they are and finding myself afresh to ever make the promotion of the county's growth and development, and to the happiness of the people we bring to a successful conclusion the work of the organization.

W. K. Abernathy, Pres.

Selmer, Tenn.

From time to time we will attempt to give some of the history in detail of McNairy county. We have garthered some interesting facts from the History and Biography Committee of the Association and other sources. And many of our citizens have made contributions touching the early history of the county. Among this numbers is a valuable paper prepared by Mr. Jeff Walker, an old citizen of the county. He is a Confederate veteran, was born at Purdy, and knows a great deal of the history.

OCTOBER 19, 1923

Early History Of McNairy, County

As has been stated many times, McNairy county was carved out of territory that originally belonged to the Chickasaw Indians. This was so until the treaty of about 1818, five years before the passage of the act creating the county. There were many white settlers in this part of the state at the time, but among its early settlers we have the names of W. S. Wisdom, Benjamin Wright, Macklin Cross, the Barnett Brothers, one a lawyer, the other a merchant and politician of that day, Dick Harwell, Daniel Hill, Archibald Houston, John Hamm, John and Samuel Chambers, Jacob Jackson, Abram Lorance, John Weaver, Javan Cox, A. Sanders, the McCanns, Beards, Fergusons, Dorions, Wilkinsons, McCullars, Raines and Stovalls. These settlers were all here about the time of the organization of the county.

The legislation creating this county was in 1823 and was entitled an Act to establish a new county west of Hardin county. Of interest to the people now living would be the original boundaries of the county found in that act. Beginning at the south - west corner of Hardin county running thence north with the west passing the south - east corner of Madison county, to a point three miles west of the first range line up to the south boundary of this state, thence east on the said boundary to the beginning.

The county comprised in area about 645 square miles and its population according to the first census taken after its creation the census of 1830 was 5697.

Among the early settlers of the county were Revolutionary Soldiers, men who had followed the fortunes of the colonists, and came to this, then uninhabited county, determined to blaze the trail and pathway for the civilization that was destined to posses all these regions. They felled the forests right here where we now live; they drove the Indians to lands father west, built rude churches and schoolhouses, and laid deep and strong and broad the foundations for the mighyt superstructure that followed their toils and labors.

It is said and it is no doubt a fact, that the first church was established by the Presbyterians at Bethel Springs, this being about the year 1828. The first pastor was Rev. John Gillespie. The members consisting the organization at time were Alexander McCullar, George Kidd, W. Wilson, Ann Kidd, John Gilliam, Alex M. Brown, Nancy Brown. Rosana Gilliam, Lydia Wilson, Jane McCullar and Mary Houston.

And then there was established the first Baptist church north of Purdy, about 1830, with Frankie Beard as its pastor, Its name at the time was Macedonia.

There were churches established in these early days at both Mt. Vernon and Mt. Zion, for in 1851 the Cumberland Presbyterian church was organized at Purdy, with its members from these two churches. When this church was organized at Purdy in 1851, the elders were John H. Black, A. Moore, W. D. McKinney and S. J. Cheney. The church as an organization disbanded during the war, and after that about 50 years ago, it was re- -established. Then Simpson Kernodle and I. W. Nash were the elders. Mt Vernon church was an organization during the administration of Andrew Jackson as President. The Baptist had organized churches in the county as early as 1828. Some of the early ministers of that church were, Frankie Beard, A. Sanders, W. H. Hodges, E. Washburn.

The Methodists had an organization in the county at Purdy as early as 1832. It is said that the church house stood across the run north of Purdy and was a log building.

So you will observe that there were churches scattered over the county, and this condition prevailed until long after the civil war, when the church organizations became more numerous, and the membership increased. It is not the purpose of this and following articles on the early history of the county to deal with the conditions and the general situation during the last fifty years in the county.

The county was named for Judge McNairy, and the old town of Purdy, named for Col. John Purdy, of Henderson county, was established in 1825. The deed made to the Commissioners for the town of Purdy conveyed 50 acres of a certain 241 acre tract, entered by one Joseph Phillips. This was on August 24,1825. These commissioners to whom the conveyance was made by John Yount - were George W. Barnett, A. V. Murry, Wm. S. Wisdom, Robert Rankin and Thompson M. Price.

In September following the conveyance there was a sale of town lots in old Purdy, and about this time the first store was opened, it being operated by John Chambers and Nat Griffin. It is stated that Major Benjamin Wright built the first house in the town, it being a log cabin. The Indians roamed the county, were the customers at the early stores, and the smoke from their wigwams arose in the forest in the valleys and on the hills all over this county one hundred years ago.

The Southern Railroad was chartered in 1846, and was built in 1857. It was known as the Memphis and Charleston. The Mobile & Ohio Railroad was chartered in 1848, and built in 1859. A failure to raise in tax and in subscriptions $100,000 for this project, kept Purdy off the route.

It might be interesting to know as the Chambers and Purdy Turnpike Company. It was to build spikes from Purdy to the state line south. It never did materialize, however.

The first Sheriff in the county was Henry Wilson, serving from 1824 to 1828. The first county court clerk was Joseph Barnett, serving from 1824 to 1828. The first circuit court clerk was Macklin Cross, serving from 1824 to 1836. The first trustee was Robert M. Owens, serving one term. The first register was William Murry, who was succeeded by A. V. Murry, serving from 1824 to 1836. Benjamin Wright was the first surveyor.

The first representative was John M. Johnson, an uncle of Hon. J. D. Johnson, of Jackson. The first clerk and master was Alphonso Cross.

The first court was held at the home of A. V. Murry, just north of Selmer, and on the east bank of Cypress, about opposite the Julius King place.

The first Masonic Lodge was organized at Purdy by the Savannah lodge in October 1848. The officers and members were Fielding Hurst, W. M. Laney Moore, S. M. Thomas Combs, J. W., B. R. Harris, Samuel Pace, James K. Kindle, James Denny, and P. H. Braden. Forty years ago this lodge had about 35 members and its officers were T. F. Dalbey, W. T., T. A. Hipps, S. W., W. C. Chamness, J. W., J. H. Curry, Secretary, Asa Bell, Treasurer, D. W. Cobb, S. D. Miles Needham, J. D., W. Case Tyler.

Mr and Mrs. Lacy Hamm, of Springfield, ILL. are here for a visit with their parents, Mr. and Mrs. J. T. Hamm and Mr. and Mrs. E. W. Mitchell.

J. R. Dancer and family and John V. Houston were guest of relatives at Stantonville Sunday.

Mrs. Elizabeth Wardlow returned Sunday from a week's visit with her son, J. W. Wardlow, of Ripley and Ed Wardlow of Middleton.

G. W. Adams of Roscoe, Texas, who has been visiting relatives and friends in this section the past two weeks, left Monday on his return home.

OCTOBER 26, 1923

RAMER

Mr. and Mrs. Walter Nethery spent Sunday in Corinth.

Mrs. Penn and daughter, Elizabeth, and son Joe and Charles, of Trenton, were week - end guests of Miss Leila Penn in the home of Dr. Key.

R. N. Shelton, who has been in McRae Sanitarium for more than two weeks, is reported as not doing so well the past few days.

Mrs. G. A. Blassingame spent Thursday in Corinth.

Miss Mary Ethel Carman spent the week - end with her parents at Falcon.

E. S. Robinson continues to ship cattle, hauling two cars loaded here Monday.

Mrs. Sallie Cobb, of Corinth, returned home Monday, after having spent a few days with her niece, Mrs. J. H. Hill.

Mrs. J. R. Hamm and son Eugene, were in Corinth Tuesday afternoon.

I. W. Holland returned last week from a visit to relatives in Pennsylvania.

Miss Louise Johnson, a senior in Selmer High, spent the week - end with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. W. Johnson.

J. R. Hamm was a business visitor to Corinth Thursday.

P. H. Shea Nethery, accompanied by her granddaugther, Miss Vertreese Smith, went to Corinth Tuesday to visit her son, Ed Nethery, who is in McRae Sanitarium in a serious condition from cancer of the stomach.

Miss Zella Gooch and Thetus Shelton were married Saturday afternoon, Rev. J. A. Houston saying the ceremony. The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. H. C. M. Gooch and a young lady of pleasing personality, while the groom is the son of Mrs. J. A. Shelton and is the popular carrier on route 3.

Gentry McCullar and Miss Grace Million were married at the Baptist parsonage at Corinth Saturday night and came to his fathers, C. L. McCullar's. The groom is the principal of the Chewalla school and his bride one of Bethel Springs beautiful girls.

Dewey Basham and Miss Lillian Dunaway were married last week at the home of the bride's parents, Mr. and Mrs. J. E. Dunaway, in the presence of many friends, Rev. J. W. Wallace performed the ceremony. This popular young couple were born and raised west of Selmer. The groom is the son of Fielding Basham and holds a responsible position in Memphis, where they will reside.

GRAVELHILL

J. W. McCoy, who lives two miles west of here, had his barn destroyed by fire last Saturday morning about 4 o'clock. The origin of the fire is unknown. A quantity of loose hay, cotton seed and some other stuff burned. The property was partially covered by insurance.

Delegates from the Missionary Baptist churches of this county met here last Saturday and organized a McNairy County Association, composed of this county and West Hardin, with Rev. T. R. Hammons as Moderator, and J. E. Bolding, as Clerk. The body will meet at Chewalla next October.

We have been greatly disappointed in the progress of our school building on account of not being able to secure a foreman that could start on this job, and lack of co - operation to some extent. But we are glad to say we will be ready to open school Monday. We earnestly request and urge every patron of the school to be present. We expect to have our County Superintendent, County Agent and some other speakers to be here and witness the opening of the best school we have ever had, and second to none. WHY? Because we have the qualified, enthusiastic teachers; a building that we have long been in need of, not in plan as we would like, but will answer the purpose; and last, but not the least, by any means, as fine a bunch of bright and intelligent boys and girls as can be found in any state, county or community. So with cooperation on the part of the patrons, success is surely ours. Do not fail to be on hand on the first morning of our school.

Perhaps I had better give the names of our teachers;

Prof. Horry Browder will be our Principal, Misses Nola Etheridge of Bethel Springs and Mary Holcomb, of Selmer, assistants.

Mrs. John Wright Gooch, of Selmer, visited in the home of her sister, Mrs. W. J. McCoy here Saturday and Sunday.

We were glad to have with us during the Association, Prof. Utley, Principal of the McNairy High School. He made a favorable impression on the people of our community.

Rev. Hammond preached a forceful sermon to a large and attentive audience here, Sunday.

We regret that Miss Nola Ethridge was not notified of the date of the school opening.

J. A. Armstrong and wife are the happy parents of a fine baby girl.

OCTOBER 26, 1923

EARLY HISTORY OF McNAIRY, COUNTY

The article in last issue closed with reference to the first Masonic Lodge instituted in the county, the one at Purdy in October 1848.

At the time N. C. Riggs was the sheriff of the county,

A. A. Sanders was County Court Clerk, Macklin Cross was Circuit Court Clerk; Benjamin Wright was register; James Warren was representative. These references are made that you may be able to take in the situation as it was three quarters of a century ago.

It might be interesting to know that this county was organized under the old militia law. At first it was known as Regiment 107, among whose colonels were J. T. Barnhill, N. C. Riggs, R. D. Wilson and James Robinson. One of the lieutenant colonels was F. M. Massengill. When the civil war came, the colonels then were John Campbell, John H. Meeks, O. L. Meeks, J. M. Kirk, and W. W. Jeanes. John Debarry, J. L. Henderson, J. N. Barnhill, J. D. Young and Issac Booth were lieutenant colonels.

The Brigadier Generals of the militia were J. M. Meeks and W. D. Jopling. On the roll in 1861 there were such men as W. G. McKay, J. W. Beard, W. J. Massengill, R. W. Pool, S. L. Cheney, P. S. Wisdom, P. W. Martin and Daniel Barry.

When the great war came, the county voted 1318 for separation, and 586 against it. Wrights Boys was the name of the first company raised in Purdy. This was in May 1861, at Purdy. John V. Wright was Captain, D. M. Wisdom, first lieutenant, and the other officers were S. W. Henry, H. S. Pinkston, John P. Johnson, W. S. Rainey, James Riley and James Houston. After the formation of the regiment, John V. Wright was made Colonel, and D. M. Widsom, Captain.

The second company organized in the county was the McNairy Guards, and the Captain was Alphonso Cross. The other officers were, A. M. Covey, J. B. Cross, T. D Moore, E. L. Sanders, J. D. Page, J. P. Smith, J. K. Byrn, R. L. Stewart, R. C. Wilkinson, D. P. McKenzie, J. W. Howell and M. R. Haley.

And then the Washingtonians, with Prof. Alva Johnson as Captain was organized. This was the second year of the war. The other officers were Samuel Anderson, T. C. Wilkinson and J. L. Morphis.

The thirty - second cavalry contained two McNairy Companies, E and F. The officers were Albert Cross, John Michie, Albert Casey, M. Wharton, E. R. Turner, J. R. Adams, Robert Damerson, John Meeks, John Vael, Alex Winningham, and these companies were under the command of Gen. Nathan Bedford Forrest.

Since the county had taken such a positive stand on the then great issues, many soldiers for both armies were soon in the service, Gen. Andrew Johnson commissioned Fielding Hurst to raise a regiment for the Federal army, and October 1862, companies A - B - C - D, and G. were raised, and these became the Sixth Union Tennessee Cavalry, known by many in the county as the " Sixth Tennessee ".

This regiment was organized at Bethel Springs, and was mustered into the service in November, 1862. The officers of the " Sixth Tennessee " were Fielding Hurst, Colonel W. K. M. Breckinridge, Lieutenant Colonel, E. S. Tidwell and R. M. Thompson, Majors, Thos. Williams, Surgeon, Joe E. Morvin, assistant surgeon, W. J. Smith quartermaster, F. M. Clayton, Commissary, J. J. Smith, chaplin, S. L. Warren, adjutant, B. S. Walker, sergeant major, J. F. Tidwell, hospital steward, J. R. Ray, Regimental quartermaster, J. A. Locked, regimental commissary sergeant. At the close of the war, W. J. Smith was colonel, and S. L. Warren was a Major.

The officers of Company A were A. M. Thompson, B. J. Riggs, and Samuel Lewis, Captain. The other officers were J. N. Smith, C. N. Deford, Thos. Craught and Wm. N. and the other officers were Samuel D. Hanna, Wm. W. Kirby, and John Huddleston. Nathan M. D. Kemp was Captain of Company C., and W. T. Smith and James M. Sanders were the officers, L. Hurst and J. L. W. Boatman were captain of Company D, and Zach Norcott and John P. Gibbs, were the officers. J. L. W. Boatman was an officer in Company G. and this company was composed largely of men from Decatur county.

We would like to publish the roster of the men composing all the companies that went from McNairy County to the war of the sixties. No county gave to the armies of the north and south braver soldiers than those who went from this county. The ranks have thinned, and while they wrote a record of imperishable glory, many of the names have been forgotten by this younger and newer generation. The heroic deeds of these men will never be forgotten, and they will never die.

NOVEMBER 2, 1923

EARLY HISTORY OF McNAIRY COUNTY

The article in the last issue closed with reference to the military history of the county, prior to and during the civil war. This article will give some random sketches with regards to incidents and persons in the early life of the county.

From some historical references taken from the papers of James Warren we have the names of the early settlers, those who lived in the county prior to 1830:

Beck, Erwin, Gillchrist, Jones, Kerr, Luttrell, McKenzie, Sanders, Veal, Wilson, Atkins, Burk, Branden, Black, Cunningham, Donald, Dameron, Elam, Farris, Michie, Sharp, Stubblefield, Graham, Wardlow, Barnhill, Chambers, Hooker, Hamm, Houston, Huggins, Littlejohn, Prather, Ramer, Springer, Boatman, Darby, Jeanes, Forsythe, Henderson, Horn, Meeks, Simpson, Derryberry, Flowers, Gooch, Kirk, Locke, Null, Young, Dillion, Hornbuckle, Kernodle, Lockman, McIntyre, Moore, Roberson, Sanders, Stovall, Turner, Weatherly, Wilson, Clayton, Cobb, Clemons, Garner, Hurst, Jackson, Merchison, Maness, Rowsey, Bulliner, Shelton, Pitts, Sipes, Massengill, Parrish, Riggs, Stanley, Barnes, Brooks, Murray, Crump, Devault, Surratt, Denny, Jopling, Adams, Sweat, Tatum, Carter, Putman, Smith, Sheffield, Randolph, Ingram, O'Neal, Beard, Landreth, Kemp, McHalstead, Plunk, Basinger, Combs, Cochram, Cox, Merrell, Kirby, Bishop, Walsh, McAlpin, Hardin, Ward, Anderson, Finley, Tedford, Wamble, Estes, Hodges.

In 1858 the books of the office of the circuit and county court clerk were destroyed by fire. We learn that the first Circuit Judge was Joshua Heiskell and the Attorney General was Alex Bradford. In 18?8, the Circuit Judge was Elijah Walker, and the Attorney General was Lee M. Bentley.

An interesting bit of history is found by reference to an old minutes entry in the circuit clerk's office. It gives the names of the jury that tried Henry, a slave, for the killing of " Diana ", a free , white woman. The killing was in April 1860 and at the house standing on the old Purdy and Stantonville road, between the Sam Pounds place and Stantonville. The jury was composed of Shadrack Maness, John Cannon, Wm. Vertreese, Samuel Ervine, Benjamin Newsom, E. S. Boyington, B. J. Young, G. W. Prewett, J. C. Goodman, F. F. Carroll, Joseph Roark and John Murdock. The trial was at old Purdy in July 1860 and the Negro was sentenced to hang. He was hung by the then Sheriff, W. D. Jopling, at the foot of the hill, just west of Purdy. This was on the 7th day of September, 1860.

There was a rude courthouse built at Purdy about 1825, and this was supplanted by a brick courthouse in 1830. This stood until 1881 when it was destroyed by fire. The old Purdy jail, on the bluff in the eastern part of the old town of Purdy, was built in 1850.

The first election held for the removal of the county seat was more than 50 years ago. This election was defeated on some constitutional grounds. Then in 1884, another was held for the removal to Falcon. There were 1921 for removal and 560 against. Court action followed, the style of the action being M. J. Braden.

NOVEMBER 23, 1923

EARLY HISTORY OF MCNAIRY COUNTY

The author of this and the preceding article is Mr. Jeff Walker.

The first school that I remember attending, was what was known as the brick academy, on the west side of town and near the Wisdom residence. The school was taught by a preacher named McMahan. The next teacher was Israel Huddleston who taught in a school house near the jail. The next teacher was H. A. Dudley who taught in a house on the east side of the street leading south from the public square. The next was Russ Stribling who taught in a school house north of the college lot. The Purdy college was completed in 1858; and the first session was commenced the first Monday in January, 1859. The board of trustees was W. S. Wisdom, D. McKenzie, A. R. Hall, J. F McKinney, F. P. Duke, W. C. Kendal, A. Moore, C. C. Lewter, M. Cross. Officers of the board were W. S. Wisdom, president, B. H. Malone Professor of Languages, professor J. P. Baldridge, of mathematics. The college had a fine telescope, with all the instruments necessary in a first class institute of learning. It also had a large library presented by the Hon. John V. Wright. Among the many students who attended the Purdy college. I remember T. B. Larimore, who became famous as a preacher, author, and teacher. R. P. Meeks who attained eminence as a preacher and author, Henry Meeks, who arose to distinction in his profession, and is today among the ablest lawyers of the state of Tennessee, Ansel Walters Stovall, who was a student of Purdy college, and who was the school mate and playmate of my childhood and the friend of maturer years. He studied law under Israel Huddleston after the civil war and made a success of his profession. He served with distinction in the Legislature of Tennessee from McNairy county, and also from Madison county and he also served as Judge of Madison county for several years. Into that other life which the soul of man craves as the better life, Ansel Walters Stovall has gone, and we speak conviction and our belief that he entered it facing his fellow and his GOD with that conviction which comes from dupers where ? are all lost to the world now.

Their charms and surroundings live only in the memory of a spared few.

Among the older citizens of Purdy whom I remember was W. S. Wisdom who had been among the early settlers of Purdy, Benjamin Wright, who was one of the early surveyors of the county and was at one time register of McNairy county, Patrick H. Braden, Milton H. Johnson, Alfred Moore, Ed Dodd, Sam Worthington, S. J. Chaney, George Burtwell, Wm. Ruleman, Henry Swan, Hugh Kerby, W. C. Kendal, Dan Barry, Ambers McGlothling, Peter Gullet, McAplin Cross, and I. P. Young. Among the legal talent of old Purdy were John V. Wright, Arch Houston, J. F. McKinney, D. M. Wisdom, Israel Huddleston, Fielding Hurst, Julius Jones, and Richard Cross.

My father, Joseph Walker come to McNairy county in 1824, one year after the county was organized, and was in business in Purdy, as far back as 1836. In the forties he was in business with George Adams. I remember the Blackwells and Andrews, who had a tan yard on the branch south of the Ruleman tan yard. Among the older citizens of the county whom I remember was Gen. John H. Meeks who was a delegate to the convention of 1870 which framed the constitution of Tennessee. He was a man of whom it might justly be said; " Behold, indeed, an Israellite in whom there is no guile". I remember the Warren family the McKenzie's, Beck, Irwins, Houstons, Ray, Huggins, Hurleys, Browders, Barnhill, Gooch, Massengills, O'Neal, Sheltons, Bishops, Smith, Owens, Wilson, Sipes, Surratt, Finleys, Combs, Sanders, Devault, Beards, Kerby, Beatys, Clayton, Jones, Hodges, Anderson, Hendrix, Plunk, Lockman, Browns, Milsteads, Maxedons, Mitchells, Burchetts, Rowseys, Deatons, Estes, Rogers, Ingrams, Barhams, Hills, Harris, Floyd, Tacker, Gage, Henry, and many others.

Dr. Charles Crump was one of the earliest physicians of Purdy. I remember two of his children, Marcus Vines and Martha Delia Crump. Among others I remember as citizens of Purdy were Henry Gillespie, who was a clerk for Bell and Wisdom. He was also a confederate soldier.

Ben McIntye who was also a confederate soldier, was a clerk in the dry goods house of Hall Bros., as was also Billie Johnson, who was a nephew of Macklin Cross. George Churchwell, who was a clerk for D. N. Huddleston. Fayette Veal was a clerk in the dry goods store of Alfred Moore. Bob Cates was a clerk in the dry goods house of Cross & CO. John M. Harris I think was a partner of his father N. C. Riggs in the dry goods business and went to Memphis some time before the civil war. He was a confederate soldier and was killed at the battle of Franklin.

Ben Walker was a partner of my father in the grocery business in 1860 and was a confederate soldier. He was killed at the battle of Brice's Cross Roads on the 10th of June 1864. Leborn Street was at one time a partner of my father in the grocery business.

John W. Stumph was a citizen of Purdy. He was a first class jeweler and also a first class citizen and the man with the iron nerves. (There are parts of this paper that can't be read.)

In this Thespian Hall were enacted many of the masterpieces of Shakespeare. I remember E. C. Hurst as being mayor of the town of Purdy, and Marcus L. Riddle as town constable.

Among those who joined their fortunes with the south in the great struggle were John V. Wright, who was Col. of the 13th Tennessee Infantry. Col D. M. Wisdom of the 19th Tennessee Cavalry; Capt. Alfonso Cross, Capt. John R. Adams, Lieut. Albert Covey, Lieut. H. G. Pinkston, Lieut. John P. Johnson F. D. Moore, Sam Henry, John B. Cross, Hiram Johnson, Ben L. and T. J. Walker, Polk Gullet, Riley Holman, Cam and Chap Hurst,

Joe McCann, Lam Y. Pace, John Huddleton. On the federal side. I remember Col. Fielding Hurst, of the 6th Tennessee Cavalry. I remember Col. Hurst as being a man of very strong prejudice. He had his enemies inside and outside of Purdy, and my candid opinion is that if his enemies had let him alone, that his course would have been far different. He was a friend of my father, and when Purdy was burned. Col. Hurst would not allow any of my father's books removed as Clerk. D. N. Huddleston did manage to get a few of the books out.

Jim Barnes, Green Gullet and Muddy Shaw, were the drivers of the old Jon. V. Wright Stage Coach.

One of the prominent citizens of McNairy county just after the civil war was Matt Abernathy who did much to advance the cause of education in McNairy county, and who did more than any one to keep down the bitter animosities engendered by the civil war. The immortals of memory, which fade not in a day like the flowers culled from the garden will (this can't be read.)

NOVEMBER 30, 1923

EARLY HISTORY OF MCNAIRY COUNTY

After the removal question was settled by an opinion of Supreme Court, the county seat was again at Purdy. This situation remained for several years, when another election was held. There had been formed an association among the business men, of the county, and those interested in the removal of the county seat to a point on the railroad. This was known as the McNairy County Real Estate and Improvement Company. This company purchased 50 acres of land, the site of the town of Selmer and as an inducement to the removal of the county seat, offered to build the courthouse and donate same to the county. An election was held and the return showed the necessary votes to remove. Litigation contesting the election was begun, but it was abandoned and the county seat was removed to what was then New South, now Selmer.

While the courthouse was not built until 1891, New South had its beginning a few years prior to this date. J. W. Purviance and P. H. Thrasher put in operation a sawmill at about where the Standard Oil property is now. Then there was a little store or commissary close by. This was in 1884 and both of these gentlemen lived at Purdy. What is now the Humphrey field and the Thrasher bottom field and the fields above the upper bridge at Selmer were dense Cypress bottoms. The only clearing was the old field where the town of Selmer is now situated.

Later Mr. Thrasher built a residence on the site of the T. M. Humphery place, and a store on about where the mill of Sam McCullar is. He later built a livery stable just opposite the present residence of Louis Adams. Then Uncle Sid Alexander built a residence and one by one residences were built in different parts of what is now the town. To advertise the place then known as New South, excursions were run and picnics and various gatherings held before the courthouse was built. One of the big picnic gatherings was in the bottom just this side of the south creek bridge. A large gathering assembled on the occasion. Another was held in the other part of the town at the springs just north of where A. L. Smith now lives. S. A. Perkins and George Gibson bought out the mercantile business of P. H. Thrasher, and for a long time conducted a store where the McCullar mill now is, later they removed to a building on the north side of the street about where J. H. Bigger & Son now have their store. The depot was built and J D. A. Coleman agent at Falcon, became the first agent. This was a long time however after the first settlement of Messrs Purviance and Thrasher.

Then came the sale of town lots, and location of the present town was made. Streets and alleys were laid off, lots located with respect to them, and the whole town laid out with precision. The beautiful shade trees, for so long the admiration of the people here and those who see them, were then set out. Business lots were soon purchased, and buildings were soon in process of erection. Where T. M. Humphrey & Son now have their store was a wooden building occupied by G. L. Anderson. The two story building now occupied by Hamilton's barber shop, was erected by Hodge Devault who at about the same time built the house recently removed (this part unable to read.) two - story frame next to where Browder Bros. now have their drug store. J. W. Prather built the brick now occupied by A. S. Prather, and then a two - story frame building about where the store of J. M. Smith now is R. H. Freeman built a house about where Miss Bulah Lockes store now stands. Polk Browder built a drug store where now stands the Selmer Bank & Trust Co.

Drs. Atkins and Borum had an office where now stands the Selmer, Hardware CO. J. T. McCullar built the old hotel now occupied by Mrs. Minnie McCullar. It was then where the First National Bank building. McDougal and Houston had their law offices adjoining this building. After the building of the McNairy County Bank building they removed their offices to this building, as did H. P. Wood.

Then Dr. J. L. Smith came from Falcon as did J. W. Prather, H. C. Gooch, Dr. W. E. Atkins, J. W. Simpson, Huse Freeman, Mrs. E. E. Warren, W. H. Stone and many others from that town and community.

J. W. Purviance moved his Purdy residence here, and so did J. R. Adams and B. S. McIntyre. The county seat was then named Selmer instead of New South. The town was incorporated, and what is now the beautiful little town of Selmer began to grow and prosper.

Its lawyers then were H. P. Wood, J. W. Pace, D. A. McDougal A. W. Stovall, J. T. Barnhill and J. C. Houston. Its early merchants were P. H. Thrasher, Lon Perkins, George Gibson, J. W. Prather, Hodge Devault, Huse Freeman, H. C. Gooch, F. P. Browder, G. W. McCullar, G. L. Anderson, B. S. McIntire and others whose names we do not now recall.

The early teachers were Prof. Hudson, Abernathy, Thomas and Hodges.

Its early preachers were Rev. J. H. Curry, W. J. Williams, R. P. Meeks, and great and good men of that type

The Doctors here then were J. L. Smith, W. E. Atkins and J. C. McConnell.

So we can view the town as it is now, its people, its school and churches, its business men and the community as a whole, and in retrospection look at what was here about thirty years ago, and appreciate the changes that time has wrought in the people and in these places that we have known.

DECEMBER 7, 1923

ABOUT W. D. Jopling

One of the most interesting and familiar characters in the county for more than a half century was W. D. Jopling.

He was thirteen years of age when he came to this county with his parents from Virginia. He was born in 1820 and came to McNairy county in 1833. His father was John Sutton Jopling and the old home was just east of Selmer. The subject of this sketch was born during the administration of James Monroe, and since we have just celebrated the 100th anniversary of the county, it will be of interest to note that he was born three years before the county was, and five years before the old town of Purdy was established.

In early life he married the first time to Arminta Dickens, and issue of that marriage were John B. Jopling, for a long time one of the foremost citizens and officials of the county, and Mrs. Harriet Wagoner, wife of J. C. Wagoner, living near Selmer. His first wife died more than sixty years ago, and he then married Julia A. Walsh of Purdy, and issue of that marriage was A. H. Jopling, now a citizen of Selmer. Aunt Julia, as she was affectionately known, died a short time after the death of her husband, he dying here in 1904.

In his day no man in the county enjoyed a wider acquaintance - ship. He knew personally nearly every man in the county, and had in the years that are gone been in almost every home in the county. Strong of physique and of mind, tall, erect, red - headed, and with long red beard, he was the center of attraction wherever he went. He was likewise strong of voice, and it is said of him that during his administration of the office of sheriff of the county, and he occupied that office longer than any man ever did in the history of the county or state, he could be heard from the old courthouse in Purdy calling title grants , and witnesses for four miles and more. Mr. Jopling admitted on one occasion that Shalin Evans heard him from Cypress bottom, and that John Gib Combs heard him from his place four miles east of Selmer on the old stage road. He often said he never went to school but a day in his life and then the teacher never got there till after dinner, having pulled fodder all morning.

As a story teller, he was never excelled. He was a master in the use of strong language, and his descriptive powers were beyond comparison. For exaggerated speech and expression, no man has ever been able to excel him. When he stopped on the street and began one of his characteristic stories, the crowd from far and near gathered about him, and all business of every kind just had to stop. He was a wonderful entertainer, and his ready and forceful replies to any and all interruptions were classics. He was with the many other things he possessed a Mason, and he was the Grand Marshall in every parade. He used to ride his favorite steed during the days of the early fair in the county, and he would have scorned the use of the modern means of carrying his voice in making announcements. The megaphone would have been thrown to the scrap heap. You could hear him above the din and roar of all things about him. He was a breezy and picturesque figure, and moved in strices and all the time.

Beside the holding of this office, he was circuit court clerk in 1876, and represented the county in the legislature during the war, being elected in 1862. He was Brigadier General in the militia.

As a campaigner of the old school he was without any equal here. Distance had no fear for him. He would take supper at the home of a friend near Wolf Pen in the 18th district, and when the rising of the next morning's sun brought in another day, he would be eating breakfast with a friend in the neighborhood of Rocky Knob in the 16th clear across the county in one night's ride. He deserved the sobriquet of "The old Red Fox".

His love for children was one of his outstanding traits and he lived to see the little boys grow to manhood, and had the satisfaction of knowing that they voted for him, and then that their children also voted for him. He was strong, and rugged and brave, and yet tender and gentle and generous. He possessed an abundance of sympathy, and no man, boy or girl ever made an appeal to him, and went away empty - handed. He died among the people that honored him so many times, and at last his mortal remains were laid to rest in the old burying grounds at Bethesda, in sight of the scenes of his boyhood and youth and early manhood. He sleeps beneath the sod in that silent city of the dead, surrounded by the little red mounds that mark the last resting places of men and woman who were his friends and companions in the early struggles and made contributions to his success. He was one of the oldest Cumberland Presbyterians in the county, and a member of that church at the time of his death.

Sweeping across the wide stretch of years from that day in 1820 when he was born, to that last day in Selmer in 1904. Uncle Bill Jopling had crowded into that long and eventful life more achievements than belong to the average and ordinary mortal.

We are glad to number him as among the early settlers of the county, and one of its most prominent and distinguished citizens.

DECEMBER 21, 1923

Gen. John M. Meeks

Just the year before the battle of New Orleans when Old Hickory won imperishable glory by vanquishing the British on that memorable 3rd day of January 1815, there was born in a middle Tennessee county, one who was destined to become leader of men and thought a distinguished citizen, a great and good man. In the year 1814, John H. Meeks was born in Lincoln county, Tennessee. He was the son of John and Elizabeth Meeks, who had come from that place in North Carolina from whence have come so many of the early settlers of this and other counties in West Tennessee --- Pendleton district.

The subject of this sketch was reared by his grand parents Capt John Henderson and wife his mother having died when he was an infant. His grand father on the maternal side was a gallant soldier in the Revolutionary War. In early life he had gone with his grandfather to Alabama but was first in McNairy county, a year or two after that, and settled in this county.

His father was born in 1783, six years before the adoption of the Federal constitution. He died in 1877, in McNairy county in 1841. Gen Meeks was married to a daughter of another North Carolina family, his wife being Ellen Atkins a daughter of George and Martha Atkins. His wife came to this county with her parents about the time that her husband first came to the county. To this union eight children were born, only three of whom are now living. Hon M. H. Meeks of Nashville, and one of the foremost lawyers of the state. Mrs. N. D. Erwin, of Stantonville and Mrs. Mattie Johnson of Henderson. He was the father of Elder R. P. Meeks, for many years one of the strongest preachers in the Christian church, another son George was circuit court clerk at the time of his death, John, another son was killed during the civil war.

Gen. Meeks located on the farm how occupied by his son - in - law N. D. Erwin, about the year 1851, and resided there continuously until his death in the year 1898. His wife had died some two years before she being at the time of her death 76 years of age.

From the very first Gen. Meeks showed his ability and manifested in all his dealing the great strength of character that possessed him. He became a leader in the community and was in the forefront in all movements that had for their purpose the upbuilding of the county. He was a leader in church affairs and was also one in the political life of the county and this section. He was chosen as the representative of the county, being elected in 1848, 1850 and 1852. He was the first democratic representative from the county, and refused the democratic nomination many times thereafter, and refused to make the race for congress in this district years thereafter. In 1870 he was elected a delegate to the constitutional convention and was a member of that body of such learned and distinguished men, who won the 23 day of February 1870, signed the third organic law for the state of Tennessee. When Andrew Jackson was president of the United States ,

Gen Meeks cast his first vote for president for Hugh Lawson White. This was just before the retirement of Old Hickory and in this election Martin Van Buren became his successor. He was a voter during the administrations of Andrew Jackson, Martin Van Buren, Wm. Henry Harrison, John Taylor, Millard Fillmore, Franklin Pierce, James Buchanan, Abraham Lincoln, Andrew Johnson., U. S. Gran,t R. B. Haynes, James A. Garfield, Chester A. Arthur, Grover Cleveland and Wm. Mckinley. These historical facts are mentioned that you may get an idea of the times in which the subject of this sketch was as an active participant in all the things that

Saddle --- Nathan Bedford Forrest.

During his long and eventful life, he lived a model citizen. He was patriotic kind and unfaltering faith in God and in his fellow man. He believed in the Golden Rule and practiced it. He recognized that eternal principal of the brother hood of man, and the Father hood of God. He trusted men, they trusted him. He practiced no deceit and was happy in serving mankind. Left an orphan at an early age, he struggled and won in the battle of life by sheer force of character. His life is a shining example of what can be accomplished by any boy who has courage and character.

During his day Gen Meeks was known far and wide for his many generous deeds. The widows and the orphans shared his bounty in the community in which he lived. He was a most knightly man, a gentleman of the old school. The people knew him and they had faith in him. Devoted to his church and to his family to his county and to his state, he made this world better for having lived in it.

He was a Master Mason and his daily life exemplified the principals of that ancient - order, and after all it is the character of lives like that of Gen. Meeks, that has enabled this order to survive the revolutions of time, and whose teachings have challenged the admiration of the world in all the centuries of the past.

The ashes of this noble citizen mingle with the dust of his people in the old Clear Creek burying grounds, and his tomb is the shrine before which his children and his children's children and those who revere the memory of a so great and good a man, will bow in solemn reverence.

After 10 days suffering with pneumonia and appendicitis, J. A. Oliver, one of our most useful and highly respected citizens died Sunday afternoon at the age of 35 years. A larger crowd is seldom ever seen at a burial than was here Monday to pay their last respects. Funeral services were conducted by Rev. Hammons and J. A. Houston in a creditable way.

Jim Mitchell died at his home 3 miles south of here last Thursday at the age of 86 years. His remains were brought here for burial Friday. Rev. J. A. Houston conducted the funeral.

Mr. and Mrs. Roy Huggins of Memphis are spending a few days with relatives and friends here.

Mr. and Mrs. W. J. Oliver were here Sunday and Monday on account of the sickness and death of their nephew.

J. A. Oliver Dies

J. A. Oliver son of R. J. Oliver and wife died Dec. 16, 1923 at his home near Gravel Hill. He was married Dec. 5 1909, to Miss Maggie Burns, and to this union was born one child little Hazel, now age 10 years. He professed faith in Christ a number of years ago and joined the Gravel Hill Baptist church and lived a very worthy life, such as commended him to the complete confidence of his church. They called him to and elected him deacon in 1922. His life was stainless his motives and aspiration high and lofty, and he leaves behind him as clean a record, as any man who ever passed out of this community. He leaves behind to mourn his loss, a loving wife and sweet little girl, father, mother, two brothers, and two sisters with a number of relatives and a host of friends.

The many friends of D. F. (Frank) Lipford when they received the news of his tragic death at the hands of a highway man near midnight at his store in North Memphis, December 15, 1923, were horribly shocked. He was shot to death and his bullet ridden body was found soon after behind a counter in his store.

Scattered about the floor were pieces of torn money and checks and silver. How much money was obtained by the robber has not been ascertained. Police and detectives are working on the case, but so far have been unable to unravel this mysterious and brutal murder.

The deceased was 60 years of age and had been a resident of Memphis for thirty years where he had prospered in business. He was a son of John H. and Mary Lipford and was reared on the old home place near Bethel Springs. He remained on the farm until he attained his majority. For several years he was a student of the late M. R. Abernathy at the old Purdy school, and taught successfully in the public schools of the county for many years.

Frank Lipford was a clean and honorable man, and a most exemplary citizen. His dealings were straight forward and he had many friends. He loved his people and his native county and was always happy when opportunity afforded a visit to the scenes of his earlier days. His devotion to his parents during their lifetime and to his brothers was a most beautiful trait of his character. He was firm he was gentle, he was courageous, he was generous. He was a vigorous minded man, a safe and a wise counselor. He played life's game fair, he believed in and practiced the Golden Rule.

He is survived by his brothers R. A. N., C. A., W. F, Pat Jim, Jobe and George, and numerous other relatives in this county and elsewhere. All the brothers, except Jobe were here. Jobe is in Arizona and his physical condition would not permit the long trip.

Funeral services were held in Memphis and in Jackson en route and were concluded at the ( unable to read ). mortal remains of Frank Lipford were laid to rest. There the funeral services were concluded by Father Reid

The largest crowd perhaps that ever gathered at Rose Hill composed of the old friends of the deceased was splendid testimonial to life and character attesting by their presence the high esteem in which they held him in life.

R. H. Gooch was the undertaker in charge with John Swain, C. C. Plunk, Thad Spencer, W. K. and Terry Abernathy and Harmon Hodges as active pall bearers.

We surely do mourn the loss of this good man, and another of the old friends of our family and of the Independent. Our sympathies are extended his brothers in their bereavement.

In Appreclation

We take this method of extending to our old friends and neighbors at Bethel Springs and Selmer and other places the gratitude of our heart for the aid and comfort given us in our late bereavement over the loss of our brother, D. F. Lipford. The details of the funeral arrangements from the time we reached Bethel Springs were cared for by friends whom we shall never forget. The kindness, shown us will never be forgotten. Our hearts saddened as they are, go out in love and gratitude to all of you. The people at Bethel Springs were especially thoughtful and our neighbors in the Rose Hill community rendered all possible aid.

And we shall ever gratefully remember Father Reid, Horry Hodges, W. K. and Terry Abernathy for their words of comfort and those who sent the beautiful flowers and furnished the sweet music. We ask God's blessing for all of you.

Lipford Brothers.

A Reminiscence

News of the death of my old friend James Mitchell at his home a mile east of Guys, on the 13th instant, inclines me to a retrospective mood. He was the last of a generation of stalwarts who, forty years and longer ago, were the life and strength of that community.

The neighborhood of which Guys is now the community center, was never territorially large. Natural demarkations and the proximity of other community centers left to it but a small area, as neighborhoods used to be defined. Big Muddy Creek was its boundary on the North. Beyond that belonged to Gravel Hill and Mt. Vernon, the latter part in after years, gravitating toward Ramer. The boundary on the South and West was formed by the first, row of settlements south and west of Little Muddy Creek, as that stream forms a half moon circle in its course. Beyond that on the south turned toward Mississippi, and on the west belonged to Chewalla. The Gravel Hill and Corinth road was the boundary on the east. Further east went with Caffey and Pea Ridge (now Michie).

Thus it will be observed by those at all acquainted with the county that this old neighborhood was quite limited in area. But it was at one time one of the strongest and most progressive in the county. It is perhaps not generally known now that fifty years ago there was maintained half a mile south of where Guys is, a boarding school which drew patronage from as far away as Oxford Creek, Stantonville, Pea Ridge (now Michie) and Chewalla. The sons and daughters of such men as Rev. Robert Young then residing near where Falcon is now.

Gen John H. Meeks and George G. Michie Sr. attended that school as boarding pupils. I think also that J. T. and R. P. Barnhill, of Chewalla attended that school, though I am not certain as to them. And for some years after that school of five, eight and ten months, during at the same place were not uncommon. of course these schools were all maintained chiefly by private contribution.

There never was an organized church in that neighborhood proper. But there were churches convenient on all sides, and the people of that neighborhood were a church going people. Officers of the law were little known. Good order was proverbial.

The settled citizenship of that neighborhood when I was a boy growing up was composed of such men as Col. O. L. Meeks, James Mitchell, W. C. Meeks, M. W. Meeks, (the rest is unreadable ).

Take families two generations each. But they were all mature men when I was a small boy, " Uncle Jackey " Potts was the oldest man in the community when I was born. He was the grandfather of our well known county man, J. W. Robinson of Ramer. Mr. Robinson was left an orphan when a small child and was reared by his grandfather.

Nor do I feel like concluding this rambling reminiscence without a reference to the colored contingent of that neighborhood in that day, of whom there were relatively many. I am persuaded that nowhere else in the world did the two races ever understand each other better, or get along more harmoniously together. The white people as a rule dealt honestly with the Negroes and the latter in turn, were respectful and trustworthy. The result was the best of feeling between the races. Those negroes would do anything within their power for us except to vote the democratic ticket. And we did not quarrel with them about that nor blame them for it. I believe also that there never was a better working lot of darkies than were these. They were willing of mind and strong of body. They seemed to know no such thing as fatigue. Log - rolling were common in that county in those days, I mean Logs, not poles. I have seen those Negroes roll logs hard all day, then engage in jumping contests all the way to the house at night, and then put on a boxing contest in the back yard while waiting for their supper. I sometimes wonder if science will ever take the place of that muscle as applied to farming. The corn cribs fail to attest the value of the substitution so far. Prominent among those darkies were, Zack Chambers, Harrison Page, Jim Wright, Tom Shaw, Marsh Meeks, Joe Chambers, George Rogers, Sam Cumby. John Harris, Marion Kirk, George Luster, Moss Baxter, Frank Burns, and others several of whom are still living.

But to return to my friend James Mitchell. He belonged in the same generation as my father and was the last of that generation in that neighborhood to answer the final summons. He (the rest is unable to read)

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