Since 1998 - Historical and Genealogical
Resources
for the Upper New River Valley of North Carolina and Virginia
by
Dr. A. B. Cox
Originally published by The Star Pub. Co. Print, Sparta, N.C. Aug.
1900.
Introduction to the Reprint
Introduction
Prof. Brown's Recommendation
History of Southwestern Virginia and Northwestern
North Carolina
Chapter II
Chapter III - - Carroll County
Chapter IV - - Floyd County
Chapter V - - Grayson County
Chapter VI - - Alleghany County
Chapter VII - - Ashe County
Chapter VIII - - Surry County
Chapter IX - - Watauga County
Chapter X - - Wilkes County
Chapter XI - - Battle of King's
Mountain
Chapter XII - - Life of the
Author and His Wife
Dr. Aras B. Cox's Footprints on the Sands of Time, out of print for nearly a century is reissued for your consideration. This small book still circulates in photocopies and retyped versions, indicates there is still a demand for the book.
Dr. Cox's work while called a history is not exactly that. Cox, a physician and Methodist minister, reads more like a maudlin funeral sermon than an actual history. This has much to do with the era in which he was raised--the Victorian. There is not an unkind word about anyone he wrote about contained in these pages, while a more objective historian could no doubt find many faults with the individuals discussed. Dr. Cox also fails to discuss many individuals who were not members of the Methodist Episcopal Church - South. While the Methodist church was important in the area, it never held the theological loyalty of a majority in any of the counties mentioned, except perhaps Grayson.
Despite these flaws, Cox's book did bear fruit, as he put it, and inspired a great many researchers to try to learn more about their own families and the 19th century in Southwestern Virginia and Northwestern North Carolina. Cox's work is also the first published "history" of any of the counties mentioned in the text. Pioneers often follow a crooked path to arrive at their destination. Cox was a pioneer historian for the area, and no doubt knew much more about these individuals than he stated. He was concerned about the length of the book, and apparently its cost.
Cox can be forgiven for much of this due to his advanced age when the book was written. His wife was dead, and he had lost his only daughter. These events put him in a reflective mood, and he wrote these pages as a memorial to them as much as anything else.
In the introduction of biographical and descriptive sketches of Southwestern Virginia and Northwestern North Carolina we are assured there are many incidents connecting with the early settlements of the country of thrilling interest worthy a place in the records of history. The perils of life in a wild Indian country, the hardships and toil endured by ancestors and those who sought for homes free from tyranny and oppression; from the love of liberty and justice, imbibing sentiments of self-sacrifice and heroic firmness in meeting the incidents common to border life, with forests on one side and savages on the other, shall their patriotic love of home and country and principles they cherished for the prosperity and happiness of lineal descendants and future generations be forgotten? Never! Principles cannot die; they will live and live on, to preserve a record of the discovery of America and leading events of planting colonies and extending Christian civilization over this highly favored land, and especially ancestors and pioneer settlers of the country--of which this is the special history--whose lives and labors embalmed in sacred memory that those who now or hereafter live in stately mansions of beautiful farm dwellings, adorned by beautiful shade trees, and with lawns of grass around the houses of comfort and enjoyment, the present and future generations may read with grateful appreciation the history of the lives and labors of those who, in the fear of God and love of humanity, helped to plant the tree of liberty, and nourished it with prayers and watered it with tears.
In these biographical sketches there are many who, at a more recent date, became citizens and residents who have contributed to their country's prosperity and happiness that we have not been able to record from the limits of this volume. But there are many now living in this highly favored country enjoying the blessings of home and happiness, we have especially referred to possessing talent, statesmanship and patriotic love of home and count under a government that administers justice to all its subjects upon whom this great nation is dependent to assist in protecting their rights, and perpetuating, sustaining and preserving in their pristine purity, the principles of government contained in the Declaration of Independence and Constitution of the United States, in framing one of the best superstructures of civil government ever erected by the wisdom and genius of man. If this history perpetuates the names and records, the lives and noble deeds of ancestors and other early settlers who, through privation, hardships, toils and perseverance have changed this great country which lay slumbering through the ages of the past from a wild, Indian, savage state to a christian civilization of intelligent, refined, enlightened population.
If we have recovered from oblivion, the name and life of any person or persons that will give comfort or cheer the living; if we have presented the lives and labors of the honored dead who left examples to the world--a richer legacy than gold or silver--to be followed to obtain the greatest blessings ad sacred enjoyment of life on earth and brightest hopes of an inheritance in Heaven. If this history, however, unique it may be, shall encourage some dear boy or girl, young man or young lady to honor, comfort and rejoice the heart of a kind father and affectionate mother; if this small book shall add one particle toward advancing the Redeemer's Kingdom on earth and impress the mind and heart with the obligation that is high as Heaven and lasting as Eternity which we are under to honor, love and serve God for our good and His glory,--if any of these objects are obtained we shall believe our labor not in vain.*******We present this book to you, kind reader, as a tribute of love to our native country and the affection to its worthy people.
THE AUTHOR.
We have examined some of the manuscript prepared by Dr. A. B. Cox for a history. The work has required much labor, care, and patient research and contains many things of deep interest relating to the discovery of American and early settlements of the country, and especially Southwestern Virginia and Northwestern North Carolina, of which this is the history. The patriotic love of home and country free from unjust burthens of taxation and tyranny characterized the early settler of this country. Their toils, privations and hardships are carefully detailed in this work. The history gives accurate account of ancestors' lives that will be interesting to their lineal descendants, and shows the great change in the past and present condition of things. The advancement from lower to higher degree has marked the divine economy in every department of its reign.
This history will give a statement of the lives of those who, in the past and present, have and are contributing to the good of their country. We cheerfully recommend it as a history worthy a place in every family library to perpetuate the memory of the sacred dead and worthy living who appreci- ate their homes in this highly favored land with an enlightened population, institutions of learning, refined society, churches and other christian institutions that should encourage those who live afterwards to emulate the industrious dead and in gratitude to God, the giver of every good and perfect gift, and preserve, unimpaired, the priceless heritage bequeathed us by the wisdom and genius of the founders of our civil and religious liberties.
S. W. Brown,
Prin. Sparta Institute.
History contains an important branch of science, giving accurate accounts of past events--founding governments, progress in arts and science, biographies of those who have contributed to the good of society and advancement of christian civilization. History is often a warning against error, and inspires the mind with a deep desire to be good and great, leaving on the golden pages of history an example worthy for others to imitate. The noble deeds of the heroic valor and self-sacrifice for the good of others who may live afterwards, is worth the admiration of intelligent minds, calculated to inspire parotic love of home and country and enable future generations to look with pleasing recollections on the lives of pioneer settlers who, through privation and toil paved the way from log cabins to stately mansions, halls, and palaces. Historians generally record the lives of great men and eulogize their deeds, while millions in humbler walks of life perform the labor, support the government, defend the rights of humanity, merit the good will and respect and honor of their country, yet their deeds are left untold.
The following pages are intended to give a brief history of Southwestern Virginia and Northwestern North Carolina and genealogical statement of the pioneer settlers and their lineal descendants, with some sketches of the discovery of this country.
Southwestern Virginia and Northwestern North Carolina are between ranges of mountains containing beautiful forests, salubrious atmosphere, crystal streams of water, rich vegetation, delicious fruits, and rich mines of iron, lead, cooper and zinc. It is a subject of deep interest; to notice the order of Divine providence that after this vast continent lay slumbering through the ages of the past, unknown to the enlightened nations of the world, waiting the magic art of the hand of civilization to cultivate its virgin soil and develop its vast resources of wealth.
Christopher Columbus, a native of the republic of Genoa, a man of superior talents, from scientific knowledge, believed there must be a continent in the West balancing the great continent in the East. After many years of toil and painful solicitations, presenting in their attractive powers the honor, wealth and fame it would confer on Spain if he could obtain an outfit to go in quest of and discover Western lands, King Ferdinand, being engaged in wars, and not being willing to risk his funds, did not favor the enterprise, but the amiable and noble Queen Isabella offered him her aid, pawning her own jewels to raise funds. Her name is worthy to be engraved in letters of gold on the records of American history. Three vessels were fitted up and, on the 3rd day of August, after repairing to the chapel and offering up prayer to Almighty God for the success of the voyage they sailed from the port Palos in Spain, and with admirable courage, patience and skill in overcoming difficulties, on the 12th of October they discovered Hispaniola, one of the West India islands. After setting foot on its soil they knelt in prayer, thanking God for their success. They made other discoveries and returned to Spain.
A second and third voyage was made and further discoveries continued until the reign of Queen Elizabeth, which was one of the brightest and most exciting in English history.
Sir Walter Raleigh, whose name is held in grateful memory, enjoyed, at that time, the favor of the Queen and obtained letters of patent from the crown and fitted up an expedition, consisting of two vessels, commanded by Phillip Armadas and Arthur Barlow, sailed on the 27th of April, A.D. 1584, and landed on Roanoke Is. on the 4th day of July of that year. They met a friendly reception from the natives. The scenery was delightful. There were plenty of fine grapes and berries. The air was redolent with sweet perfume from the beautiful flowers. It was here on Currituck Sound the first Anglo-Saxon meteor flag floated to the breeze; and it was here on this newly discovered country that the silence was broken by the first christian prayer from grateful hearts that went up to God.
A kind entertainment was given to Armadas and Barlow and their men by the wife of Granganameo, an Indian chief, that would have done honor to female humane kindness among enlightened people in the most refined society. The expedition return to England in September of the same year. During the year following, April, 1585, another expedition, consisting of over one hundred persons, under the auspices of Sir Walter Raleigh, was sent to Roanoke. These returned to England after a year's absence; and still another was sent out by him in 1586, in charge of John White, commissioned as governor of the city of Roanoke, to be established on Roanoke Is. White returned to England, leaving about one hundred men, women, and children, among whom was his daughter, Eleanor Dare, wife of one of the assistants, and who, on the 18th of August, became mother of the first child - Virginia Dare by name - born of English parents in the New World.
It was not until the year 1590 that Raleigh could return to look after this colony. Not a trace of it could be found. After fitting out five expeditions at his own expense-about $200,000-and laboring many years, he abandon- ed his possessions, despairing of success. His ignomious judicial murder by a government he had patriotically devoted the best energies of his great mind and life, must, for all time to come, stand our conspicuously on the dark pages of her high crimes.
For half century no successful efforts were made to establish colonies in North Carolina. Mean while other settlements were being made in Virginia. It was here where so great an effort was made and so great a sacrifice of life and treasure to establish a colony that the principles of liberty, justice and right were rocked in the cradle of freedom, and the foundation of a great Anglo-American Empire laid, the principles of human government sim- plified, the liberty of the people and their right to self government im- movably established. A free, happy and powerful republic under the con- stitution of laws in which the rights of individuals are inviolably sustained as the glory of the national faith that now covers the fairest portion of the new world. The proudest result of this new born nation is the purity of its government and the happiness of its people. She has given to the world the sublime lesson of her experience and great principles of this government.
We now return to the more permanent settlement made in North Carolina. It was more than fifty years after the loss of the colony left by White on Roanoke before any permanent settlement was made in North Carolina. A colony had been settled in Virginia about 1620 and - during and thereafter - up to 1640 colonists from Virginia united with emigrants from other countries in making a more permanent settlement in North Carolina. From dissention and divisions among the settlers and trouble with the Indians great care and perseverance was required to retained peace, order and safety. Christian fortitude added much in crowning success.
A colony was commenced in Virginia A.D. 1607 under the wise counsel and leadership of Captain John Smith whose life and past experience prepared him for the important work entrusted to his care. While engaged in this arduous task an incident occurred worthy of record. Captain Smith was taken prisoner by the Indians and sentence of death passed upon him by Powhatan, a ruling Indian Chief. Preparation was made for his execution. His head lay on a rock, the savage executioner's war club raised to strike the fatal blow when Pocohontas, the eldest daughter of Chief Powhatan, laid her head on Smith's declaring she would peril her own life to save his. Such acts of female sympathy, love and humane kindness from his (the Chief's) own daughter touched the savage Chief's heart and he changed his sentence saying, his life should not be taken. Smith was set at liberty and Powhatan became the friend of the English and did much for the success of the colony. The gallant deep prompted by love that glowed in the heart of the Indian maid, so beautifully manifested by Pocahontas in periling her own life to save another, is worthy the praise of the brightest intellect under Christian culture. Pocahontas was carried to England, married to John Rolfe, a worthy young Englishman, professed the Christian religion, was baptized under the name of Rebecca and died an example of peaceful resig- nation and buried at Gravesend in England. From her lineal descendants sprang some of the leading families as scholars and statesmen. Captain Smith, exercising great administrative ability in governing of the class of emigrants that first came to Virginia and defending his people from Indian depredations, succeeded in planting a colony permanently in Virginia. During the year 1620, after much toil, privation, and suffering his valuable life was closed in England.
We have given an account of that part of Captain Smith's life in Virginia and circumstances attending it believing it would be of interest to the reader. His rescue by Pocahontas was an act of such love and heroism by a youth- ful maid--daughter of a savage chief--that would have done honor to the brightest female intellect in an enlightened land of Christian civilization exciting the strongest principles of charity and Christian culture--the deeds of such sainted women as Ruth and Mary Magdalene who loved Jesus, and other noble women whose names will live engraven on the pages of infinite memory when marble monuments will have crumbled into dust--should be retained in history as jewels of woman's love and power.
When the first English settlement was made they became restless, and there being no women in the colony the English were not satisfied. In the fall of 1620 ninety young women were induced to cast their fortunes and seek husbands in Va., and soon after sixty others--courageous marriageable women--landed in the new settlement and became wives to the pioneers. The ladies were sold to the colonists who were allowed to make their selection and to pay their passage to the London company.
The population increased and settlements continued westward. In 1635 the London company sent over Sir John Harvey to govern the colony, but he conducted things so badly that the patience of the people gave way and Harvey was sent back to England a prisoner to answer for his misconduct. The English law of primogeniture and detail regulating the descent property, and the wealthier colonists, directing the labor of many indentured servants and slaves who lived apart on their plantations, affecting somewhat of a landed aristocracy. After the ruination of the King's cause at home in 1645 many of the disbanded cavaliers found refuge in Va., bringing with them chivalrous attachments of church and king.
In 1671 Governor Berkeley estimated the population at 40,000--including 2,000 negro slaves and 6,000 indentured servants. The character of his administration may be inferred from a communication made by him this year to the English privy council: "I thank God there are no free schools here or printing press and I hope there will not be for the next hundred years, for education only makes subjects disloyal to the King." The spirit of liberty and justice grew with increase of population. A young lawyer by the name of Bacon came to the colony but soon raised a disturbance and was arrested by order of Berkeley and he and his followers severely punished. Berkeley afterwards returned to England. He was not received with applause, but rather, it is said, with chagrin.
The colony still extended its territory westward. It was during Sir George Yardley's administration as Governor of the colony of Virginia that the territory was divided into eleven districts or boroughs. The Governor issued a proclamation to the citizens of each borough to elect two of their own number to constitute a legislative assembly. Elections were accordingly held on the 30th of July 1619. The delegates convened at Jamestown. Here was organized the Virginia House of Burgesses or colonial legislature-- the first popular assembly held in the new world. Here was laid the first pillar for a great republic. A few years after the plantation of Jamestown other settlements were made up the James River as far as Richmond and beyond. The commonwealth of Virginia grew and expanded according to national laws of development. Emigrants came in from Ireland, Scotland, Germany, and other European countries; the native multiplied; others came to find new homes in this favored land, society improved, civil and religious institutions established to meet the wants of the colony.
The permanence of a new state was assured. This country became a place of refuge from religious persecution and heavy burdens of taxation. For near one hundred years the people contended, not only with hardships incident to pioneer life, but almost continual Indian warfare, until the 17th century. The love of liberty and the administration of justice had taken hold on the minds of the people, not to be erased, and patriotic love of home and country planted in cirtuous soil to live and expand to other lands. At the beginning of the 18th century the colony had advanced as far west as Montgomery county, which at that time included a considerable part of Southwestern Virginia.
Believing it will be a matter of pleasing interest to the lineal descendants of ancestors who left their native home in the densely populated and down- trodden countries of the old world, and came to this country, and through indefatigable labor and toil aided in unfurling the banner of liberty and religious freedom which they happily enjoyed. We give a statement of some of the leading famlies that first settled in this country and soe of the incidents therewith--partly from tradition and the most reliable sourcs of information we cold obtain. The Craigs, Englishes, Lewises, Triggs, Taylors, Huffs, Coxes, Cloyds, Prestons, Floyds, Charlestons, Wades, Howards, Lesters, and Dobbins. These famlies by united effort, established permanent homes, and their lineal descendants are scattered over this broad land, west to the Pacific coast.
Towns and cities have been built up, railroads completed, navigation enlarged, institutions of learning established, inventions that have equaled if not surpassed the genius of any others that the world has ever produced. Fulton, the inventor of the steam boat, Fields of the ocean cable, Whitney of the cotton gin, and Edison of the telephone. The families mentioned have borne a conspicuous part in founding the institutions so happily enjoyed by the people of the present generation.
John Craig of Roanoke, married Mollie Cox, whose son represented his district in congress for many years. Craig county was named in honor of his family. James Taylor, a nephew of the representative in congress, was for some years Attorney General of Virginia. The Preston family was distinguished for their patriotism and love of country. General James Preston was wounded in the War of 1812 and made a cripple for life, and afterwards became Governor of Virginia. His son Hon. Wm. B. Preston was an able statesmand and distinguished lawyer, was Secretary of the Navy in Pres. William Henry Harrison's cabinet, and with ex-President Tyler, as a delegate from Virginia to the peace congress which convened at Washing- ton City to prevent the unfortunate war between the states. Gordon Cloyd lived in Pulaski County and was entry-taker in the land office for many years. Captain John Cox, brother of Mrs. Craig referred to, was at one time a citizen of Montgomery County, moved to Grayson County, Virginia, was distinguished as a Regulator during the Revolutionary War. The Lesters were noted for energy and ambition in what every they engaged in, always honest and right. Peter Howard, the ancestor of the Howard family, was a worthy Baptist minister. He lived to a good old age, raised an intelligent familiy. Col. Joseph Howard was one of the country's best citizens honored and respected by the people. Rev. Charles W. Charleton, of Montgomery County, was a talented, interesting preacher, member of Holston annual conference of the M.E. Church South for some years. The original ancestors of the Bishop family came from Holland. They were among the first settlers of Floyd, then Montgomery County. The old lady was drowned in Little river in an attempt to cross when it was too flush. Henry and Jacob, their sons, were large athletic men, noted for industry and prudence in managing the business affairs of life. The Andersons and Wades were quiet, reliable families, often filling county offices. A Mrs. Wade is the present Clerk of Montgomery county. Roanoke retains the name of Roan- oke given to the island at the mouth of the Roanoke river, at which point Armadas and Barlow landed in 1584. It is beautiful city with an intelligaent and enterprising population, large manufactories and wholesale mercantile stores. The surrounding country is rich in mineral wealth and fine farms. They have fine public buildings, churches and institutions of learning.
Montgomery County has many things of historic nature connected with it. It is situated just west of the range of Alleghanies and divides the eastern and western waters. Christiansburg is the capital. The Norfolk and Western railroad passes through its center. It contains fine farm and grazing lands. Its society is refined.
Pulaski County is noted for its production of grain and grasses. Newbern is the capital. In this county several prominent families reside, Floyds, Wysors, Drapers, Cloyds, and Wygals, some of whom filled important offices.
The county of Wythe is rich in mineral wealth; iron, lead, gypsum, cobalt, and zinc. Iron furnaces, manufactories and public works have given employment to many laboring hands. The distinguished General Samuel Houston, the hero of San Jacinto, first president of the Republic of Texas, was born at the lead mines, in Wythe Co. Judge Andrew Fulton resided in this county and was a representative in Congress, but was a native of North Carolina, which State was proud of her son. Colonel Rush Floyd was a talented lawyer and at the head of the bar. Pierce owned residences, furnaces, manufactories of shot and other extensive business operations, and was at Poplar Camp, in the southeastern part of the county. Many Germans and Dutch were early settlers of this county and formed a class of the finest agriculturalists in the country. Wytheville, the capital, is a beautiful town and an active place of business, and has a fine institution of learning conducted under the wise administration of Prof. Snavely. The adaptation of grain-growing, stock-raising, mineral wealth, and commercial advantages make the county of Wythe one of the most desirable places for a pleasant home.
Smyth county, although not large in boundary, contains much wealth. It has a rich alluvial soil, fine timber, and furnishes much material for buildings. Its minerals are salt, and gypsum. Marion, the county seat, is delightfully located, and is laid out in beauty and convenience and is a desirable place for a happy home, where refined society churches and good schools and fine railroad facilities are to be found. The salt works in the southwestern part of the county has furnished millions of bushels to the surrounding country. These counties of Virginia produce fine fruits, such as apples, peaches, pears, quinces and abundance of smaller fruits. Look & Lincoln manufacture valuable articles for wagons, etc., that supply the pressing demands of the country. The Seven Mile Ford farm is very beautiful--level, rich soil, crystal streams of Holston river--and rich in production equal to any on the Mississippi river. James W. Sheffey was a resident of this county and was an able jurist. James White Sheffey and George W. Richardson are practicing lawyers of Marion. The lunatic asylum is located near town and is an honor to christian civilization. The officers of this institution--Dr. Preston, Superintendent--are gentlemen eminently qualified for the important duties assigned them. Major Scott was for many years Sheriff of Smyth county and proved a faithful officer and honored citizen. His was a noble family. Their son Robert D. Scott is editor of the Enterprise, Battle Creek, Nebraska. Miss Mattie Scott was a lady of refinement and many accomplishments.
There is much of historic lore attached to Southwestern Virginia. The genealogy of Carroll and surrounding counties is so immediately connected that anything like a correct chronology cannot be given without taking the population in connection.
Carroll county is bounded on the east by Floyd, on the south by Surry, N.C. (State line), on the west by Grayson, on the North by Wythe.
Hillsville is the county seat. This town is a neat country village with well- arranged streets for convenience in business departments, and is well supplied with hotels, mercantile establishments, doctors, lawyers and merchants. The Elliott House is a good hotel for the weary traveler. It has all the accommodations that polite attention and kindness can bestow. Mr. Thompson the gentlemanly proprietor gives his guests a pleasant home at his hotel.
Carroll county abounds in fine meadow and grazing lands, forests of fine timber beautiful streams of cool, clear, soft water which passes through most all the farm land. Iron, in large quantities, zinc and copper abound. The productions are wheat, rye, oats, corn and buckwheat.
This county claims to have derives its name from Charles Carroll, one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence. John Blair was one of the early settlers who owned and operated iron works on Chestnut Creek and sup- plied the people with a much needed article. He represented his county in the legislature before Carroll county was formed from the eastern end of Grayson County. His wife was a Miss Boring. They raised an intelligent family. Hon. Fielding J. Hale, of Battle Creek, Nebraska, is a lineal descendant of the Blair family. Many of their posterity are scattered through the western states. Andrew Cock was among the first settlers of the eastern part of the county. He made and occupied a fine farm on Burk's Fork of Reed Is. river. One of his daughters, Hannah, is the grandmother of Rev. Mr. Webb, of the county. After the death of this venerable pioneer his son, Esquire John Cock, became owner of the old homestead. His wife was Jennie Phillips, one earth's noble women. Esquire Cock served his county as Justice of the Peace for many years. He was an upright man and leader in his community. Their large family descendants have, many of them, gone West to occupy new territory. Reuben Cock was also an early settler and raised a large respected family. The population of the eastern part of Carroll county was composed in part of Daltons, Bobbitts, Nestors, Jenkinses, Webbs, and Montgomeries. John Carroll (Irish descent) was a merchant, framer and representative in the legislature. John Cock, Jr. married his niece, Mary Ann Carroll; Wm. Bobbitt married her sister, Margaret Carroll. Jeremiah Star was a worthy citizen and successful farmer and tanner. His wife was Tabitha Howell, grand-daughter of Enoch Osborne, Sr. of Bridle Creek, Grayson county. Louis, Wesley and Mary were their children. Captain Jennings who commanded a company from the eastern part of the county in the Confederate army, was a young man of talents and much moral worth who fell in battle and honor to his extensive family relations and country, as was also the brave company under his command. William Lindsey, first Clerk of the court, and Robert Mitchell were prominent citizens and Justices of the Peace. Col. Madison D. Carter, lawyer and farmer, resided in this part of the county and earnestly labored for the good of his country. He was an honored and respected citizen.
Edward Marshall was Sheriff for a number of years, an efficient, faithful officer. William Kenny was a practical farmer and worthy citizen and had a highly respected family. Dr. Joshua D. Stoneman had an extensive practice in this and adjoining counties. He was a zealous member of the Quaker church, loved, honored and respected. His son, Mark D. Stoneman, made medicine his profession and moved to Indiana. The Davis families were quiet, good citizens. Esquire Coolie lived in the western part of the county. No modern Tubal Cain could have excelled him as an artificer in his superior skill in working metals. He made some of the finest clocks in the United States. One of these clock was purchased by John McMillan, of Alleghany county, and it not only kept the usual order of time, but the days of the week and the month, the "full" and changes of the moon. The author of these sketches has often seen the clock. Esquire Coolie was a useful and honored citizen and had an intelligent and highly respected family.
Rev. William Thompson, a native of Campbell County, Va., for some time a resident of Floyd, spent the close of his useful life near Hillsville, after having served his generation by the will of God. His happy spirit no doubt has gone to gather laurels fresh that will never fade in the regions of bliss.
There are many worthy subjects connected with the people we have not recorded; their lives and noble deeds are worthy of being perpetuated. Rev. Vaughn and Amos Shockley were local preachers in the M.E. Church South who aided in unfurling the banner of the cross over their people. They have gone to rest in the better world but the fruits of their labor still live.
Elder William Lawson, a distinguished Baptist minister, who resided in the northwestern part of Patrick County. He married a Miss. Thompson, an amiable christian lady. He was pastor of several churches in Carroll and adjoining counties. His superior talents and bright intellect, although limited in opportunity for education in early life, was well cultivated for usefulness in church and State. He was a systematic farmer, a prudent manager of the domestic business of life, that makes the family circle a happy home, worth living for. The writer that records these facts, has, when wearied by traveling, spent several nights' rest with this hospitable family. Elder Lawson continued faithful in his ministerial work as long as he was able to travel, "he being dead, yet speaketh." He has gone to his happy home to dwell with the church triumphant in glory. Their son, Col. Jefferson Lawson, was an officer in the Confederate army, honored and respected, after the war representative in the Legislature.
The population of Patrick county is so immediately connected with that of Carroll in relations of life that they made be appropriately described together. Hon. Archibald Stuart, of Patrick county, practiced law in Carroll courts for several years. He was a distinguished lawyer and statesman, presidential elector and member of congress. His wife, Miss Pannel, possessed a high order of talent and christian culture as governess in the family circle, both as teacher in literature and christian eduction that does honor to the name of mother. Their son, General James E. B. Stuart, command a brigade of cavalry in the Confederate army, was wounded at Yellow Tavern, Va., and died a meritorious officer of whom his county and state is justly proud.
Many worthy families live in Patrick county, some of whom we name, as Staples, Penns, Reeds, Scales, Moores, and Corse, all have done credit to their county and state. Rev. Jacob Bishop resided in this county for more than forty years was a quiet local preacher in the M.E. Church South for nearly sixty years. A fine church edifice was erected in his neighborhood, known as Gladeville church, with a membership of over one hundred. Wm. Liddle, was class leader. Rev. Alexander C. Sutherland and Rev. Ezra Painter were local preachers.
Chestnut Yards, in the western part of the county, is the terminus of a branch of the Norfolk and Western Railroad. Wolf Glade, six miles east of Grayson courthouse on turnpike road leading to Hillsville, is an active place of business, having dry goods and grocery stores, fine steel roller flour mills, and a tannery in a wealthy community of good farmers and successful prod- ucers. Of the worthy number are Messrs. Draper, manufacturer of leather, Wm. Liddell, a native of England, a skillful workman in iron an steel; Wm. R. Bishop, a practical farmer and live stock dealer. His amiable accomplished wife was Miss Ella Lawson, daughter of Elder Wm. Lawson, previously mentioned. Luther Bishop, farmer and live stock dealer. His wife was a Miss Cecil, an excellent lady. Rev. A. C. Sutherland, a good farmer and producer. His accomplished wife was the daughter of Michael Kinser. Mr. Sutherland's son, Rev. Roby Sutherland, is a member of the Holston annual conference, stationed at Bristol. Although a young man in age he is distinguished as an able minister of the gospel. Dr. Dobbins is located at Wolf Glade and is a successful practitioner. His wife was Miss Ella Duffy, daughter of Dr. Duffy of Oldtown in Grayson County. Dr. Dobbins is a young man whose devotion to his profession, assisted by his excellent christian wife bespeaks for them a bright future. James Wilkinson resides at Hillsville, and is an active businessman, farmer, producer and livestock dealer. His worthy wife was Miss Jane Reeves of Alleghany Co., NC an excellent lady and pious companion. Steven Wilkinson, now residing at Hillsville, has been an explorer to some considerable extent, has visited Congo Free State, in Africa, and Klondike regions among the gold mines of Alaska. His estimable wife was a Miss Edwards of Wilkes County, NC.
There is something in store for the future of Carroll county that may soon be developed. Its rich mineral deposits, fine forests of timber, granite, water power, variety of fruits, salubrious air and crystal springs of pure water are the natural blessings which are sure to prove advantageous to the people. Many the good people be thankful for the past and cherish bright hopes for the future.
Floyd County was formed form the Southern part of Montgomery County. It is bounded on the south by Patrick, west by Carroll, east by Franklin. Its surface is very uneven. All parts of the county abound in springs of clear, cold, soft water, with inlets and creeks in great numbers passing through the county. Jacksonville is the capital and is beautifully located. The population is composed of intelligent, active and enterprising business people. Institutions of learning, supplied with well qualified professors of literature.
The Buffalo mountain in the southern part of the county rises in sublime grandeur and clouds float along its sides, and flashes of lightening and peals of thunder are seen and heard below its summit. A fine view of the sur- rounding country can be obtained from the top of this mountain.
The products of the county are wheat, corn, rye, oats, buckwheat, pota- toes, and a great variety of vegetables and fine delicious fruits. The climate and soil is adapted to the growth of grasses, such as timothy, clover, red top and blue grass. Live stock raising has brought more money to the county than any other branch of business. There are valuable minerals. For many years past furnaces have been operated. Even gold has been found in the northeastern part of the county. There is an alum cave in the western part of the county, also a very fine chalybeate sulphur springs. Fine forests of timber abound. Granite and sandstone, for building material, is plentiful. It has water power for mills and machinery.
The author of these sketches is a native of Floyd county; bound by endear- ing ties of kindred love and friendly associations of past years. We grate- fully appreciate the enjoyment of the home and associations of early life. The recollection on memory's page is a green spot and cooling shade of life's journey.
Believing it will be a subject of interest and pleasure to those who now or hereafter may live to find recorded in history the names of ancient and worthy citizens who made their homes in this country worthy of a record in history, leaving examples of moral excellence and piety that enables them to look back with grateful hearts that in the providence of God they had such fine parents whose names still live in history, and whose labors changed the wild forest to fertile fields, and savage tents to happy dwelling houses, mansions, palaces, institutions of learning and churches dedicated to the worship of God.
Edmund Vansel was one of the first settlers of this county. He was a live stock raiser and good farmer. His fine farm was afterwards owned by Col. John English, Samuel Sanders, and Judge Flemming Sanders. It is now owned by Mr. Burnett. The early settlers of this county were to some extent made up of emigrants from England, Germany, Ireland, Scotland and France. We give the names of some of the leading families: Phlegers, Weddles, Harmons, Slushers, Bishops, Coxes, Hiltons, Reeds, Gordons, Wades, Helms, Howards, Goodykoontzes, Kitermans, Phillipes, Dickersons, Thurmans, Duncans, Lesters, Simmonses, and Shelors. Many worthy people who made homes in this county furnished examples of industry, patience energy and perseverance that honor head and heart.
Col. Jacob Helms married a Miss Smith. He was successful merchant, farmer, and active business man, a member of the Virginia legislature, when Montgomery and Floyd were one county, and zealously aided by Hon. Wm. B. Preston, State senator, Floyd county was created. As a citizen, was a public spirited man who contributed to the good of society. The home of Col. Helms was preaching place for the Methodist itinerant preacher on that circuit, and a hospitable home for way-worn ministers of the gospel. Col. Helms and family contributed much towards the erection of a camp meeting location near their home. Captain John W. Helms was a practical farmer on Burke's Fork in the western part of the county and was Sheriff of his county for a number of years and representative of Floyd county in the Virginia legislature. He married Miss Susan Cox, a native of the county. Their youngest son, George W. Helms, is the present superintendent of the Vir- ginia penitentiary and is an efficient and approved official. Wm. Goodson was first clerk of Floyd county, Pleasant Howell was sheriff and repre- sentative in the legislature, Wm. Gilham was a representative in the legislature, Harvey Deskins was a merchant and representative, Burdine Bishop was a representative in 1883 and '84. David Slusher has been sher- iff for several years, Brame Bros. are editors of the Floyd Press, Mrs. Mary L. Bishop, former editor of Floyd Press, is a lady of intelligence and refinement.
The directory of Jacksonville as taken in the fall of 1895, shows seven stores, three hotels, ten lawyers, four doctors, two resident ministers, one academy, and two good county schools, Dr. Pendleton, druggist, S. W. Tompkins, postmaster, J. W. Simmons, M.D., and Calahan Stigleman, M.D., resident physicians.
We name a few of the model agriculturists and producers of the county; Benjamin Dodd owned a good farm one mile east of the court house, was an industrious and worthy citizen. Solomon Harmon was a farmer and miller who, by industry and economy, made a handsome property sufficient to leave his family in good circumstances. Andrew Weddle was an unassuming christian whose wife was a Miss Boone, of Kentucky renown. Mr. Weddle was a pattern of industry, quietude and piety. Archibald Hylton was an excellent citizen and practical farmer. Ambrose Cox, Sr., lived in the western part of the county, married Miss Sallie Reed. He was a good citizen and neighbor and by industry and economy acquired considerable wealth. His father Matthew Cox senior was a native of the valley of Virginia. His wife's maiden name was Dickerson, who first married a man by the name of Spencer. She was a widow when Matthew Cox married her. Their union was blessed with six sons and one daughter, viz: Carter, Maston, Aras, Matthew, Ambrose, Braxton, and Delphine. The latter mar- ried Wm. Roberts, Matthew Cox, Sr. was a soldier in Col. George Wash- ington's regiment with General Braddock at Pittsburgh in 1755 when the English were defeated. Col. Washington requested General Braddock to allow him to take his regiment and fight the indians, assuring him that under proper discipline he could defeat them. But the General replied: "It is high time when a Virginia Buckskin attempts to advise a British General." The French and Indians poured a deadly fire into the English ranks until General Braddock was mortally wounded, and exclaimed: "Colonel Washington, what shall we do?" Washington answered: "For God's sake retreat!" Matthew Cox was with the body-guard that conveyed the wounded General form the fatal battle-ground. He died soon after. The Virginia regiment came near starving before they reached the valley of Virginia. Matthew Cox and family lived for some years in Halifax County, Virginia, and then moved to Floyd county, as previously stated, then moved to Wilkes County, NC, now Caldwell Co.
Esquire Isbel in after years owned the farm where Matthew Cox, Sr., lived, and where he and his noble wife's bodies rest in their honored graves. Spring Camp farm, at the foot of Buffalo mountain, on the south side, is one of the most valuable farms in the county. It was owned by Hon. Charles C. Lee, a distinguished lawyer and statesman, whose patriotic love of country reflected credit on himself and country. This valuable farm was afterward owned by Nat Burwell and brothers.
Laurel Fork, a branch of Big Reed Island contains fine meadows and grazing lands. The old Stanley farm on Burk's Fork, north side of Buffalo mountain, contains one of the finest meadows in all this country. This farm was afterward owned by the Hylton Family. On this delightful stream was the residence of the late John W. Helms, spoken of. The Indian Ridge in the western part of the county contained some fine specimens of beautiful silica, one alone weighed twenty-five pounds, of rare beauty and was placed in the cabinet of minerals at Marion Sims College of Medicine at St. Louis, Mo., with the proper engravings in letters of gold, in memory of Albert S. A. Cox, a student of the college, who died there in 1891, a bright example of moral excellence and piety. This extraordinary specimen was found by Mr. Weeks and purchased by Thomas W. Williamson, and purchas- ed from Mr. Williamson by Dr. A. B. Cox who placed it in the college as an evidence of a father's love to his son, whose piety, bright intellect, desire for knowledge and love of home and family did honor to his home and parents.
Elder Jesse Jones was a minister of the gospel in the Baptist Church for more than sixty years. He was loved and respected as a faithful good man, the fruits of whose labor will live and live on for years to come, while he is receiving a rich reward for his faithful ministerial labor. William Smith, in the (Dunkard) German Baptist church, was one of the early preachers of Floyd county. He built up an extensive church and was truly a good and successful preacher. It is a source of pleasing recollection and grateful appreciation to the author of these sketches to remember the large number of Methodist preachers, local and itinerant, who labored so faithfully for the good of society and advancement of the Redeemer's cause on earth--the salvation of souls and glory of God. We are glad to record the names of the servants of the blessed Redeemer's cause on earth--who obeyed the command: "Go thou and preach the kingdom of God." John Cecil, George Godby, Henry Bishop, Alfred Goodykoontz, David Howell, Jacob Bishop, Elias Skelton, Richard Buckingham, and William Thompson who labored faithfully to build up the Master's kingdom of righteousness on earth, and as instruments in the church of Christ, saved souls. Among the faithful servants in the Master's vineyard none probably did more fore the cause of christianity than Rev. William Thompson, especially in Methodist doctrine and discipline. His life, with the others mentioned, will live embalmed in sacred memory. There are many worthy people of Floyd county whose names are entitled to a record in commemoration of their valuable lives, but is impossible to insert it all herein. One other we will refer to is known as old uncle Blanch Duncan, a natural genius in wood-work, and iron; a carpenter, mill-right, and blacksmith; a good neighbor and worthy citizen, who lived on Indian Creek.
Grayson county contains the southwestern corner of Virginia. The Iron mountain on the north, Stone mountain on the west, Blue Ridge on the south form its boundary. Whitetop, Balsam and Pond mountains clustering together at the southwest corner of the county make a valley of alluvial soil. The county contains forests of fine timber, crystal streams of clear, cold water. It produces fine crops of wheat, rye, oats, corn and buckwheat, and vegatables of great variety.
The county is divided into two valleys by Buck mountain. The valley of New River is on the south side and Elk Creek valley on the North side. The advantages possessed in this locality for good homes attracted the attention of early immigrants who sought a place of residence in this (Eldorado) new territory.
The following are the names of some of the leading families that settled at an early date and made their homes in Grayson county: Osbornes, Coxes, Reeveses, Hashes, Phippes, Wards, Hales, Fultons, Ferrells, Bournes, Thomases, and Perkinses, whose lineal descendants have in some degree gone to help populate almost every state west to the Pacific coast.
Esquire Enoch Osborne and family settled on New River, in what is known as Bridle Creek, but for many years known as Osborn settlement. About the same time other families located there. Enoch Osborn had three brothers, Solomon, Ephraim, and Jonathan, who came to the county with their families about the same time.
A fort was built on the farm now occupied and owned by Joshua Osborne and son, John, at Ansella post office. Indian depredations were common on the border settlements, and preparations for protection and defense was necessary. It was fortunate for society that the first settlers were people of moral worth and piety.
Enoch Osborne and wife were professors of religion and aided in planting the standard of christian civilization over the land that was recently inhabited by savages. An incident occurred with the Osborne brothers in their newly occupied territory that tells of the dangers and exposures to which pioneer settlers were subjected. Enoch Osborne and brothers Solomon and Ephraim, went into what is now Watauga County, NC, on a hunting trip--deer being plentiful in that section--and getting wet by a shower of rain and wet bushes struck up camp, hung up their wet clothes by the camp-fire and lay down to sleep. The Indians surprised them by shooting and killing Solomon Osborne. An Indian chased Enoch some distance and lost him in the dark. Ephraim, after fleeing from camp, carefully crept back in the dark to find his mare that was fastened with a hickory-bark halter to a tree, loosed her and rode home. Enoch Osborne returned home without shoes and in his night clothing. The author of these sketches learned these facts from Mrs. Mary McMullen, who, before her marriage, was Miss Mary Woods, granddaughter of Solomon Osborn who was murdered by the Indians, and married Hon. Fayette McMullen, member of congress from Scott county in his district in Virginia for several sessions. It was at the old fort where Esquire Enoch Osborn, Sr., first located a home. He married a Miss Hash. Their home was a resting place for the way-worn traveling preachers. The venerable Bishop Asbury in after years called with them, rested and took refreshments as he was making his ministerial tour through this newly settled country, preaching the gospel.
Captain John Cox and his brother, David, moved to Grayson county and settled on New River about ten miles west of Grayson Old Court House. John Cox was captian of the Regulators of this part of the state during the Revolutionary War, and, as far as he could, kept peace and prevented crime. In after years he moved to the mouth of Cranberry Creek, Ashe County, NC, south fork of New River, made and cultivated a large farm and raised live stock, and where, when life's arduous toils were over, was buried in the family graveyard. His body rests in peace. His old residence is owned in part by Ellis McNeill at this time. They had two sons, James and Joshua. James Cox married Widow Terrell, Joshua Cox married a Miss Richardson. Their daughters married as follows: Catherine married Henry Hardin, Cynthia married William Gambill, Jane married Canada Richardson, another daughter (name unknown) married Thomas McGimpsey, and another daughter (name unknown) married a Mr. Baker.
David Cox, brother of Captain John Cox, moved his family to Grayson County and located their home in the same neighborhood where his brother, Captain John Cox stopped for several years--on New River, ten or twelve miles west of Grayson Old Court House. David Cox's wife was a Miss McGowan. They had seven sons and three daughters, whose lives were directly connected with other good citizens in laboring for the interest of the county in all the pertained to success, prosperity and future happiness.
George Reeves and family settled in the same neighborhood. They came from eastern Virginia. Mr. Reeves' wife's maiden name was Burton. She was a pious Christian woman whose counsel and example still lives. They had four sons and four daughters who met the responsbilities of their day with energy and success. Benjamin Phipps came from Rowan County, N.C., settled on Bridle Creek. His brother Isaiah came about the same time, as did also the Hash family. Benjamin Phipps married Miss Jane Hash, an excellent good woman. She lived to be near 100 years old; lived to see her children and grandchildren to the fourth generation.
William Bourne and family were early settlers who built the first iron works in the county. The place is known as the old furnace on Rock Creek now owned by Joshua Cox. Mr. Bourne was clerk of the county for a number of years. Their daughter, Mary married Col. Martin Dickenson who resided at Old Town, was county clerk and hotel keeper. Their son, William Bourne, Jr. was a worthy citizen. He and his excellent wife raised a family that did honor to their parents and country. Their daughter, Miss Lucinda married Freelin Nuckolls who moved to Cheyenne, Wyo. Territory and was the first representative of the Territory in congress.
Richard Hale settled on Elk Creek with his brothers, William, Frank, Dudley, Lewis, Stephen, and John. William Hale married a Miss Stone. Stephen and Lewis married each a Miss Bourne. Frank and Dudley married each a Miss Burrus. John married a Miss Blair. These were industrious, persevering citizens and helped materially to advance the best interests of Grayson county. We refer to some of their descendants further over.
Andrew Hampton and his brother, Wade Hampton came ever from England and settled near Lexington, N.C. Andrew Hampton, Jr., married Miss Sallie Mima. Their son, Griggs Hampton married Miss Phillis Sutherland. They raised nine sons and five daughters. Mr. Hampton's nice farm is a few miles west of Grayson Old Town, where he and his family enjoyed a happy home. It is a beautiful homestead. Their son Litrelle H. Hampton who lives near there, is a practical farmer and fruit grower. His excellent wife was Miss Nancy Blevins, granddaughter of Esquire Samuel and Rebecca Cox. Kemper Hampton married Miss Anna Nuckolls and resided in the county. He was a good farmer and business man and raised an industrious worthy family.
John Clemens--whose wife was a Miss Nuckolls--lived at Grayson Old Court House. He kept a hotel. Their sons were Frank, Logan, and John, their daughter Julie. John went to Nebraska and was the first person buried in the cemetery at Nebraska City.
Amos Ballard and family lived at Grayson Old Court House. The old gentleman's business was to "cry sales"--an auctioneer--but laughed most of the time, or rather made others laugh while he was crying.
Major Anderson--whose wife was a Miss Nuckolls--resided in the county. He was a prominent citizen of Grayson county. Their sons were Robert, Orville, and Garland. Robert and family moved to Atchison Co., Mo. They were pious members of the M.E. Church South in the county, Major Orville Anderson was one of the best clerks in southwestern Virginia. His bright intellect, devoted christian, and example still live. Garland Anderson was a quiet good citizen.
Samuel Fulton and family lived on Elk Creek. He served his people as Justice of the Peace for many years. Their son, Rev. Creed Fulton was a minister of the gospel in the M.E. Church South--a distinguished pulpit orator--and a zealous successful friend of education. It was in greater part through his agency that Emory & Henry College was established. The college is a monument of what faith, patience, energy, and perseverance will accomplish.
Monroe Fulton--whose wife was a Miss Reid--is a good citizen. He has raised a family of sons and daughters noted for their love of literature, piety, and religion. His sons are preachers and lawyers.
The location for Grayson Court House was first made when Grayson and Carroll were one county--named Greenville--now known as Old Town. After the division of the county, Independence was the place selected for the new county seat. The location is well selected and is a pleasant place for a home. The town contains stores and print-shops. The population of the town is composed of intelligent, praise-worthy people--Doctors, lawyers, mechanics, teachers, and so forth. The abundant yield of cereals, fine flavored fruits and great variety of vegetables make this county among the foremost in that line. Here you will find an inexhaustible supply of clear, cold water, salubrious air and a healthy climate. Here are beautiful country residences, fine dwelling houses, mansions and palaces surrounded by lovely shade trees and flowers of richest hue, make the farmer's interest paramount to all other branches of business. It is said in holy writ that the land of Canaan flowed with milk and honey. Grayson county produces plentifully of both these articles. Christian culture in the family circle is delightfully displayed. The sweet-spitited, refined females courtesy, the affable genial, kindness of proprietors, sons and others of the residences make the christian home an earthly paradise, where the fruit of industry and economy have furnished the most luxurious festive tables, prepared by the greatest skill that female genius could present. These kind entertainments are found in many famlies in the county of Grayson.
Following is a biographical sketch of some prominent families and of the public services rendered by people who held official positions: Joshua Cox married Ruth Osborn and settled on Bridle Creek, a rich and fertile valley, where nature has lavished her rich gifts and industry and art developed them. Joshua Cox was a good citizen and did much toward advancing the best interests of his neighborhood. They raised four sons and three daughters, namely: John, David, Hardin, Isom, Hannah, Jennie, and Margaret. Hardin married Nancy Reeves, a zealous christian and active worker in the Methodist church. Hardin served his county as Justice of the Peace for many years and was assessor when Grayson and Carroll were one county. He was a systematic farmer. They raised a worthy family, such as is a blessing to a community. Their eldest son fell in the Confederate army, a brave soldier--honored and respected--who laid his life on his country's altar.
Esquire Elbert S. Cox and family live near the old homestead. He married Miss Jane Hampton, an excellent woman. They have a son now practicing law. Joshua McGowan Cox and family live at the old family residence. They are a nice family and have a pleasant home. Enoch Cox, another brother married Susan Thomas, an amiable good woman. Their daughter, Mollie married Zechariah Osborn, Jr., a young man of superior talents, piety and industry, who died in the prime of life leaving a widow with the care of raising a family. This lady's bright intelligence qualifies her to raise under christian culture a family of children whose superior talents promise a bright future.
John Cox, son of Joshua Cox, married Miss Nellie Ward. They raised a large family. Their son, Andrew J. Cox fell in the Confederate amry an honored soldier. This noble boy's death was deeply lamented by many friends. Jesse Cox is still living. He has a good family and is himself a good citizen and neighbor. Another brother, Benjamin Cox has an excellent wife. They enjoy life in quietude and peace, wisely preparing for the enjoyment of this life and church privildges, laying up treasures in heaven. Aras B. Cox, the youngest sons of this family, lives on the old homestead of his parents. He has been twice married; first to a Miss Parsons, second to Miss Lucy Boyer. He is a good citizen and has provided well for the temporal comforts of life and is laying up treasures in the christian's home in heaven. They have a nice family. Their son, Alexander and daughter Ida, who now remain with their parents, are intelligent and pleasant young people. Their younger children are cheerful and mannerly, thus giving evidence of good family government.
There are many whose record we cannot trace, whose lives and noble deeds are worthy of commemoration but it would crowd this work too much ot put them on record, so, we will only present a few names of those who have been distinguished in temporal pursuits and official positions in public life.
Captain Joseph Phipps--who married Miss Nancy McMillan--was one of Grayson county's best farmers, a man of great energy and a successful manager of business. He acquired a handsome amount of property and raised a worthy family. He and his excellent wife went down to their graves honored, loved and respected. Joseph Bryant--whose first wife was Miss Sallie Hale--lived near Bridle Creek post office and owned a good farm cultivated under the most improved methods. He and his excellent wife were zealous members of the M.E. Church South. They raised a family of children that honored their parents and community where they lived.
Samuel Cox married Miss Elizabeth Thomas. They lived near Bridle Creek. he and his amiable christian wife were advocates of education and contributed to its success as far as they could with limited opportunities. They owned a pleasant home and raised an intelligent and worthy family of children.
Enoch Ward and family lived up in the coves on the south side of Buck mountain. He was a harmless man of genial kindness and loved for friends to visit him in his isolated home. They farmed and cultivated bees, and when friends visited them not only gave them freely of the honey but would have them go in the room where the honey was stored away and lift and the cans of strained honey. But these good old people have gone to their graves. Peace to their quiet rest.
One of the greatest improvements in this part of the county is Bridle Creek Academy, boarding houses and fine churches. It is a locality of beautiful farms and orchards, fine family residences, and a population of enlightened christian people. Board--with well furnished tables and good lodging--can be obtained at reasonable rates. Professor Gardner has conducted this academy with entire satisfaction to students, parents, and guardians, and the institution continues to grow in interest and usefulness.
We have given a statement of some of the prominent families that first settled in Grayson county with events of their day. There are certain facts we have carefully culled--true and reliable--that are worthy of record on the golden pages of history that many people with little patriotic love of country and its bright early history will regard as small things, but they will give the pleasing recollection of what principle with perseverance will accomplish. The people of Grayson county were made up of friends of the colonits and were true to the principles of liberty and justice.
In reviewing the history of the past, when the people, through hardships, privations and toils, laid the foundation for higher degrees of happiness and richer states of enjoyment, we contrast the past with the present condition of Bridle Creek settlement when it was made up of a few emigrants in a wild, Indian country, with their only trust in a kind Providence and a little fort for defense, with the noble spirit of martyrs and the present condition-- with an institution of learning, fine buildings, academy, church, boarding- houses, well qualified professors and teachers, under strict moral and religious government, surrounded by rich farms, beautiful dwellings and refined society. What great cause for us to lift up our hearts to God in grateful remembrances for such ancestors; who sacrificed so much; who paves the way for what we now enjoy!
Advancement from lower to higher degrees has characterized the physical, mental and moral universe of God. Human instrumentalities are employed to carry out the great work of art and science for the establishment of human happiness. When we consider the fact that the seeds of moral excellence were sown in the hearts of children by parents that would blossom and bear fruit in after years we are thankful to our ancestors. We select a few out of the many worthy people who labored with each other and deserve the highest praise.
Isom Cox--who married Miss Jincey Phipps, an accomplished, intelligent lady, an ornament to her home, and a blessing to her family--was one of Grayson County's best citizens and largest farmers. He owned the land where Bridle Creek academy and church are located. Isom Cox did much for church and state. He was ever ready to assist in any laudable enterprise for the good of society. He and his faithful wife were members of the Methodist Church South. Their example was a priceless heritage to their children. The children have honored their parents by following both precept and example. Their only two sons, Haywood and Joseph fell in the Confederate army. Nobler young men and better soldiers never honored an army or country.
Columbus Phipps married Nannie, daughter of Isom and Jincey Cox. Mr. Phipps has used more than ordinary energy in all that pertains to temporal business and religious duties. His faithful services as superintendent of the Sunday school has done much to advance the number of its members and interest--a work of so much importance in training the minds and habits of life in successful pursuits of temporal business and preparation for the rest, association and bliss of heaven. The home of Mr. Phipps and excellent family shows what industry and economy can do. He has a fine farm, improved stock and stately dwellings. His hope of a mansion in the better world is well founded, what deep gratitude we should feel to the giver of every good and perfect gift and rewarder of them diligently seek him.
Captain Melville B. Cox, a prominent citizen has contributed much to every laudable enterprise for the improvement of his country and good of society. His wife was Miss Martha Fulton, a lady of cultivated intellect and refinement. Captain Cox is a successful farmer, proprietor of a fine mercantile flour mill, dealer in live stock, and has assisted materially in establishing Bridle Creek Academy. His son, Joseph Cox has been an efficient teacher in the academy and has for some time been a law student in Washington City where he took the highest degree on examination in a class with Yale and Harvard students (so I am informed). Captain Cox and wife are devoted members of the Methodist church and community will live when they are gone from time, having assisted other good people with whom they associated in this life to obey the counsel of the great apostle to the Gentile, "Let us go on to perfection."
In summing up the biographical sketches of the lives of people and lineal descendants of ancestors there are many whose lives and labors we would like to record but the limits of this work will not admit. We will, however, give briefly a limited list of some of the citizens--people that have been an honor to the country and blessing to the community. Enoch Osborne, Jr. was an example of moral excellence. He married Jincey Burton, a lady of deep piety, a faithful wife and affectionate mother. Solomon Osborne who, in an eminent degree, was what has been styled the noblest work of God, was an honest man. His amiable christian wife, who, before her marriage was Hannah Cox, enjoyed with their family a happy home on the Old Fort farm. Esquire David Cox married Miss Jane Doughton, a patient, quiet good christian and faithful good wife and affectionate mother. Hon. Fielding J. Hale, state senator from Madison, Nebraska, is their grandson.
John H. Perkins and family resided in this county, a good neighbor and worthy citizen. Robert Pugh--who married a Miss Thomas--was a good and upright citizen and raised a family of children that did honor to parents and county. Ezekiel Young of Wilson Creek, married Miss Evaline McMillan and raised an excellent family. Mr. Young and amiable wife and most of their children, many in number, were zealous, faithful members of the Methodist church South and did much to establish piety and religion in their neighborhood. These good parents have gone to reap their rich reward on the other side of the river in the christian home in heaven.
Esquire William Grubb and kind wife and worthy family lived on the road near the mountain leading from the mouth of Wilson to Marion, Va. He was an upright man. He and his amiable wife raised a good family. Many a wearied traveler rested in their hospitable home of entertainment. Gordon Perkins married a Miss Stamper and lived on Wilson Creek. They were good people and raised a worthy family.
Fielding Young married Miss Rena Phipps, daughter of Captain Joseph Phipps. He and his devoted wife were members of the Methodist Church South. They took an active part in preparing to entertain the people who attended the meeting at the old Wilson camp-meeting ground. While listening to the proclamation of the gospel delivered in eloquence and power, the weeping mourner, shouts of converts and praises to God from christians thrilled the soul with ecstacy and joy.
Colonel Stephen Hale, of Elk Creek, married Miss Charlotte Dickerson, a christian lady who adorned the family circle. She offered up public prayer and delivered earnest exhortations. Col. Hale and wife and most of their family were devoted members of the Methodist church South. If every family lived as Mr. Hale's lived this would be a happy world. There would be no need of jails or penitentiaries, and we would not be taxed so high. Col. Hale married the second time Mrs. Mitchell, who was a noble christian woman, and one who gave peace and happiness, in the love of God, to the home of these good people, where their sun of life set beneath a cloudless sky to rise in the resurrection morn.
Col. Eli Cornette, of Elk Creek, was a leading citizen. He and his excellent wife raised a worthy family. The Colonel's nephew, George W. Cornette married Miss Sarah Gentry, daughter of Col. Allen and Rebecca Gentry, of N.C., just such a lady as will make a contented husband and happy home. Judge Cornette has filled several offices with honor to himself and satisfaction to his people.
Samuel Cox, Jr. resides on the old homestead where his parents, Samuel Cox, Sr., and faithful good wife lived. Samuel Cox, Jr., married Miss Phebe Osborn. (Phebe, a name venerated from the servant of Cenchrea who carried St. Paul's epistle to the Romans from Corinth to Rome). Mr. Cox and brothers Alexander and Callaway married sisters. They and their families live in the same neighborhood near the mouth of Little River, true types of their patriotic ancestors.
George Reeves, Sr., and family came from Drewry's Bluff, below Richmond, settled on New River, some five or six miles southeast of Independence where they remained to the close of life. Their sons were Jesse, William, George, and John, their daughters Anna, Charity, Mary, and Susan. Jesse married a Miss Terrell and moved to the mouth of Peak Creek on New River, Ashe County, N.C., on a farm made by Old Mr. Dick, one of the first settlers of the county. William Reeves also married a Miss Terrell and moved to Alleghany County, N.C., (as it now is). George Reeves married Miss Jane Osborn, a woman possessed of a high order of talent, genial disposition, industrious habits, kindhearted and pious. Mr. Reeves moved to where Esquire Charles H. Doughton and son, Rev. J. B. Doughton now lives. He was an energetic business man, and while serving his country as an officer executed some horses and was carrying them away when the owner followed and shot and mortally wounded him. He left a widow and seven children, Jesse, Enoch, George, Mary, Nancy, Rebecca, and Cynthia. John Reeves married Miss Phebe Osborn, of whom it may be truly said, was a true type of womanhood in all that was good and lovely. Mr. Reeves not only left a good home for his family but a richer legacy, that of industry, prudence, economy and honesty. His pious christian wife was ever a treasury of love. John Reeves and excellent wife raised a family to be proud of. Rev. Osborn Reeves married Rebecca Osborn, of whom it may well be said, was truly a helpmeet. The cheerful face, pleasant expression, kind words, and neat dwelling made their home a home of joy and comfort. Mr. Reeves was a preacher and Elder in the Protestant Methodist Church. Their son, John Reeves, a boy soldier fell in the Confederate army. The testament in his left vest pocket was cut through with the bullet that took his life. His immortal spirit took its flight to realms of bliss, where no battle- scarred patriotic, country-loving soldier boy's body will ever suffer, but will stand with the snow-white army of the redeemed to adore, to all eternity, the Captain-General of the world's salvation. Mr. Reeves and family lived in Georgia, not far from Cave Springs but some years later moved West. Col. George W. Reeves, and family lived many years in Ashe County, N.C., to which we will refer later. Jesse A. Reeves married his cousin, Miss Charity Reeves, and lived in Ashe County, N.C. John Reeves, Jr., the youngest son married Miss Mary Reeves, an amiable young woman, and resided with the old people. He had the honor and pleasing task of taking care of his parents in the evening of life. Mr. Reeves died when comparatively a young man. His body, with his father, John Reeves, Sr., and sainted wife and mother rests in the family graveyard to await the shrill whistle of Gabriel's trumpet to call them in the resurrection morn.
Preston Reeves, son of John and widow, Polly Reeves married Elizabeth, daugther of Isom and Jincey Cox. Mr. Reeves and worthy wife, by prudence and economy have provided well for home and comforts of life. They are an honor to family's and country. Captain Taliaferro Witcher married Miss Jane Reeves and moved to NC. His life and public services will be treated in their proper places. Miss Lucy Reeves married Esquire James Gambill. Miss Mahala Reeves married Rev. Samuel Plummer. Miss Polly Reeves married Marshall Callaway.
Troy Cox, his brothers and family were worthy citizens and good people. Hardin Cox and devoted Christian wife, a talented, accomplished lady lived on Potato Creek. His fine dwelling house, buildings and well regulated farm on Potato Creek stand as a monument of industry and economy. He was a useful laborer in church and state. He died in manhood's prime, and his happy spirit has gone to dwell in the christian's home above where it awaits the arrival of loved ones. The widow, Emeline Cox, son Charles, and amiable wife and family live happily in their home of beauty and comfort-- the fruit of their labor. John D. Cox, estimable wife and family live on Potato Creek. Mr. Cox is a practical farmer and good citizen. The Graham brothers are merchants--one on Potato Creek whose wife is a daughter of Hardin and Emeline Cox, the other, Wallace Graham has a store near Saddle post office. His wife was the daughter of Stephen and Mazie Bryant. She adorns her home by her social, quiet life. He and his wife are devoted members of the Methodist church. These merchants and families materially help in making the community successful, prosperous and happy.
There have been a number of ministers of the gospel who lived and labored for the moral and spiritual welfare of the people of Grayson county, whose names are entitled to record, namely: Elder Drury Senter, Rev. William Carrico, Elder Plummer, and Rev. Samuel Plummer, Elder Calvin Jones, Rev. Joshua Cole, and Rev. James Bedwell. These servants of the church and their people have gone to receive the welcome applaudit. "Well done good and faithful servant, enter the joys of the Lord."
The history of Grayson County is such that the present and future population of the county may look back on its record with pleasure and cherish bright hopes for its prosperity and happiness.
It is refreshing and a source of pleasure to every American who loves home and country that such men as Sir Walter Raleigh and John Smith lived, and that this country was settled by men knowing their rights dared maintain them.
Greece believe their founders were divine; Rome delighted in the fanciful idea that her Romulus descended from the Gods. No Norman tyrant landed on our shores, nor did any fabled fugitive from the flames of Troy settle this country.
North Carolina claims to be the place where this great Anglo-Saxon Empire was born and rocked in the cradle of liberty. Here too, on the 13th of July, 1584, the first English vessels landed; and here was found a people gentle, loving, faithful and kind. Virginia dates here first settlement back to 1607; Massachusetts the landing of the Pilgrims on Plymouth Rock 1620. North Carolina was the first state on whose borders the blood of colonists was first shed by English troops, occurring at Alamance 1771, and the first state to throw off the English yoke, at Charlotte, 1775. North Carolina has been true to principle. It was North Carolinian--Ensign Worth Bagley--whose blood was first spilt in defense of Cuba against Spanish injustice and cruelty. North Carolina is proud of her record. She takes her stand in the sisterhood of states and rejoices to be united with them in a government containing the principles set forth in the Declaration of Independence and constitution of the United States, one of the best countries the sun ever shone on.
Northwestern North Carolina is embraced in that portion of the state bounded on the south by Pilot and Brushy mountains, on the southwest by Blue Ridge and Black mountain, west by Tennessee line, north by the Vir- ginia line, containing an area beautiful and lovely--its towering mountains, green valleys, crystal streams of water, beautiful forests, rich delicious fruits, charming flowers of exquisite beauty and richest hues and exhilar- ating odors, and its refreshing atmosphere. It is not strange that emigrants sought a home in this highly favored land were nature placed so many attractive powers.
The products are wheat, corn, rye, oats, buckwheat, potatoes, flax, sorghum, cane, tobacco, cotton, and fruits, also garden vegetables of luxurious growth and fine flavor. Wild birds are numerous and their charming notes help make nature more grand. What cause for gratitude to an infinite, all-wise loving Father in Heaven for such inestimable blessings.
We present by counties a description of the treasuries placed by nature that lay slumbering through the ages of past waiting for the magic art of civilization to develop its vast resources and changed the wild forests to fruitful fields.
Alleghany County was formed from the eastern part of Ashe County. It is bounded on the south by Blue Ridge and Wilkes County line, west by Ashe County, north by the Virginia line and east by Surry County line. The county is divided into two valleys, Peach Bottom mountain passing through the county from east to west, valley of Little River on the south, New River and tributary streams, Prather's Creek and Elk Creek on the north. The surface is uneven, ridges and valleys along the streams of water, beautiful springs gushing and gurgling from hills and dales, forests of trees such as oak, pine, poplar, maple, ash, hickory, chestnut, abundance of granite and fine species of soap-stone rich mines of iron and copper. The productions are wheat, rye, corn, oats, buckwheat, sorghum-cane, flax, potatoes, and garden vegetables of great variety that mature in luxury and perfection, fruits such as apples, peaches, pears, quinces, plums, cherries, blackberries, strawberries, currants, whortleberries, and grapes.
Alleghany County's history is such that any patriotic, country-loving people may justly be proud of and look to for a bright future. The early settlers of this county were made up partly from eastern counties of North Carolina, some from Virginia and other states, and emigrants from Europe. They had learned by experience what oppressive laws, exorbitant taxation and injustice was. They came here imbued with the principles of liberty and justice and with determination to free themselves and posterity from under the iron wheel of tyranny, and were characterized by industry, economy, and moral excellence. They labored not in vain. The present lineal descendants can look back with pleasing reflections that in the providence of an all-wise God of love and justice enlightened christian people made their homes here and erected the standard of liberty and also the standard of the Cross of Him whose Word says, "Be diligent in business, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord." Shall the names of those who periled their lives, and toiled, enduring the privations of a wild, indian country, for the happy enjoyment of the inhabitants who live afterward, be forgotten and not preserved in history? Never! Let the spirit of patriotic love of home and country live and live on, and streams of salvation flow as does the limpid stream over its sandy bed.
Sparta is the county capital, a most beautiful location, admirably arranged in streets, business houses, residences, hotels, churches, academy, law and medical offices, furniture manufactory and one of the best printing-presses, with job department and general publishing office, in Western North Caro- lina. The Alleghany Star is published here. It is an excellent paper giving local news of interest and much general news. It is a popular paper with a reading circulation of 20,000. Attached to the printing office is a wholesale store of stationary which is the greatest convenience to this part of the state.
Prof. S. W. Brown resides here and is an able minister of the gospel of the Methodist Church South and principal of the academy. His faithful labors in the ministry and success as a teacher has won for him the approval and respect of the country.
This work is intended more as a biographical than descriptive history, endeavoring with much care to make from the best sources of information true statements of both people and country. The following is a list of some of the names of the early settlers of Alleghany County.
Williamses, Woodruffs, Bryans, McMillans, Edwardses, Burtons, Doughtons, Crouses, and Fenders. Francis Bryan came to Alleghany County from Elk Creek, Va., but was originally from the eastern part of the state. He married Miss. Phebe Woodruff and settled in the southeastern part of the county on the road leading from Grayson Old Town to Traphill, Wilkes County, where he and family lived to a good old age. Mr. Bryan was a good citizen and kind neighbor who took much interest in the prosperity, happiness and general welfare of the people. He represented his county in the legislature in 1818. His family were distinguished for their energy and perseverance in business relations of life. After a long life of toil good Mr. Bryan and noble wife, loved and respected, were placed in their honored graves where they now rest in peaceful sleep.
John McMillan, a native of Scotland, and a man of letters, came to Alleghany County and settled on Elk Creek. He brought his excellent wife with him from Scotland. He was an extensive farmer and good citizen and was first clerk of Ashe County. His family had the industry and watchful care in business affairs peculiar to their nationality. There sons were Andrew, James, John, and Alexander, their daughters Nancy, Mazy and Mary. Andrew married a Miss Fields and moved to Ashe County. John married Miss Cessa Gambill and raised a very worthy family of children.
John Burton married a Miss Stamper and raised a worthy family. William Harbor was the first manufacturer of iron in the county. One of his daughters, an estimable lady, married Hon. Richard Gentry, of Ashe County. His sons went West. Sabe Choat married a Miss Woodfort and moved from Wilkes County to Bush Creek, Alleghany County. They raised one of the most energetic business families in all the country. Their sons, Isom and Thomas Choat, went to Georgia, were planters and speculators and became wealthy. Richard Choat married Miss Sallie Edwards, a lady possessed of all the ennobling virtues that adorn female character, as daughter, sister, wife, and mother, such as make happy homes worth living for. One of their daughters married David Edwards and lived in Wilkes County and another daughter married David Isom of Grayson County, Va.
William Edwards and David Edwards were settlers of Alleghany County at an early date and did a good part in establishing good society, bringing about success and prosperity, and in advancing the best interests of their country. David Edwards, son of William Edwards, was a worthy citizen of Wilkes County.
Currin Elliott, of Hillsville, Carroll County, Va., married the daughter of David Edwards. Stephen Wilkerson of Hillsville, also married his daughter. Both Edwards Sr.'s, daughters married Allen Fender, of whom it may be correctly said, not lived for themselves only, but for the good of others. They raised a family that did honor to their parents and country. Their son, John Fender, whose excellent wife was Captain Daniel Whitehead's daughter, was an honored soldier in the Confederate army and filled a commissary office with patience, skill and honest care that honored his head and heart. Mr. Fender is now a citizen of Peak Creek, Ashe County. They have a worthy family of children. David Edwards, Sr., the pioneer settler of Alleghany County, represented the county of Ashe in the legislature of North Carolina when Alleghany, Ashe and Watauga were one county in 1812. Mr. Edwards lived on Little River for some years, his first wife was a Miss Anders. They raised a large family noted for industry, economy, perseverance and prudence in business relations. Their son, Esquire Berry Edwards was a leading citizen of Alleghany County and one of its best financial officers. Esquire Edwards' son, David was an honored soldier in the Confederate army. In his early life he spent six years in the California gold region. He married Miss Mattie Reeves. By industry and economy they have acquired a handsome amount of property. They have an intelligent, interesting family of children. Esquire Senter Edwards, a brother of David Edwards, married Miss Jane Choat, a charming good lady, wife and mother, a good neighbor and christian friend. Their son, Reed, is the present sheriff of Alleghany County. Esquire Senter Edwards is one of the county's best citizens and peace officers.
David Edwards, Sr., married the second time Mrs. Jane Reeves, widow of George Reeves. They had two children after second marriage, and lived on Elk Creek on the old homestead where the widow Reeves resided before her second marriage. Their son Solomon O. lives in the same neighborhood, a worthy and respected citizen. He married Miss Amazie McMillan, a kind- hearted amiable good woman, a devoted wife, and affectionate mother, kind neighbor and faithful friend. Their daughter, Phebe Edwards, was the wife of the author of these sketches whose life will be given in a separate statement of her family history. David Edwards, Sr., an example of industry, moral worth, and sainted wife, having faithfully done their part as good people in the various relations of life, now rest in their honored graves, in the family graveyard on the same farm.
Joseph Doughton was one of the original settlers of the county and came here from Franklin County, Virginia. He married a Miss Reeves and lived in the northeastern part of the county. He was a farmer and mechanic. He represented his county in the Legislature of 1817. He was respected as an upright citizen, whose honesty and integrity in the discharge of his duty, in the faithful performance in whatever was intrusted to his care. Esquire Charles H. Doughton is their son and an honored citizen, yet living, almost one hundred years old. He has served his county as Justice of the Peace; also county surveyor and is a practical farmer and livestock raiser. He married widow Margaret Reeves and raised a worthy, excellent family. Their sons, Fleming and Jesse, are in Oregon. Fleming Doughton married Colonel Petty's daughter, of Wilkes County, a most excellent lady. Esquire Doughton and his devoted (now deceased) wife are and were members of the Methodist church from early life. Mrs. Doughton has been dead for many years. They were liberal supporters of the church in its various enterprises. Their sons, Rev. Joseph B. Doughton, is a local Methodist preacher, whose faithful labor in assisting his brethren in the great work of building up the Redeemer's kingdom--a work of such responsibility, rising paramount above all other employments--beating back the power of darkness and works of evil, and establishing peace and righteousness and happy homes in the family circle, where the love of God thrills the soul and communities rejoice together at the house of God in hopes of spending together in heaven an eternity of bliss and happiness.
A daughter of Joseph Doughton, Jr., married George Reeves and moved to Winterset, Iowa. Her daughter, Sophrona, married Alfred D. Jones who was secretary for the first Territorial Governor of Nebraska, and settled in Omaha. Mr. Jones is one of the principal founders of the beautiful city of Omaha which has grown up and increased in population with a rapidity that tells its location is surrounded by one of the richest producing countries on earth, with railroad and steamboat facilities. The Burlington and Missouri River Railroad trains supplied with reclining chairs, accommodating employers, conveying passengers over its many branches through the Western states, has been the greatest agency in building up that section.
Solomon Parsons, John Jones, Daniel Jones, Tobias Long, John Long, and Jobe Stamper, may properly be classed with the elder men and early settlers of Alleghany County. Alexander B. McMillan, son of John McMillan, Sr., married Miss Mary Reeves an excellent, intelligent, practical farmer and a good financial officer of his county who represented the county, when Ashe, Alleghany and Watauga were one county, in both branches of the legislature. Esquire McMillan was a true patriot. As a citizen be discharged his duty faithfully and with honor to himself and satisfaction to his people, both in public office and private life. Esquire McMillan and noble wife were members of the Baptist church. Their bodies now rest in their honored graves in the family graveyard. Franklin B. McMillan, their only son, was educated at Emory and Henry college in Virginia and graduated in law at the University of N. Carolina. He was a young man of bright intellect, and professed religion early in life. His moral excellence, social disposition and genial kindness gained for him the popular good will and highest respect of the people. He married Miss Susan Dodge, a young lady of high order of talents, education, and refinement. It was a happy union. They were blessed with one child that died in infancy. Both husband and wife died in early life. They were sadly missed by their friends and acquaintances.
Colonel Allen Gentry was a citizen of Alleghany County, a public-spirited gentleman who took an active part in every laudable enterprise for the good of his country. He was a practical farmer, merchant, Justice of the Peace and representative in the legislature of North Carolina. It was through his influence that Alleghany County was created. He was a true patriot that loved his country and labored for its good. He was a kind husband, affec- tionate father, zealous, faithful christian member of the Methodist Church South. His many friends lamented his death which occurred in the prime of life, at a time when his valuable services were most needed by his family and country. Col. Gentry married Miss Rebecca Reeves, who possessed in an eminent degree the social virtues of a pure heart that elevates woman to her proper sphere, as daughter, sister, wife, mother, kind neighbor and christian friend, such as make happy homes and good society. She was a sainted wife whose duty shined with brilliancy on life's pathway. She and her husband were devoted members of the Methodist Church South. Their bodies rest side by side in their honored graves at Shiloh church graveyard. Dr. L. C. Gentry, of Ashe County, and Captain George W. Gentry, of Stephenville, Tex., are their sons. He was an honored cavalry officer in the Confederate army, also a farmer, and wholesale merchant. His wife was a Miss Whitiman, a most excellent lady. Their daughter, Miss Sarah, married Judge George W. Cornett of Grayson County, Virginia. Cynthia married Captain James H. Parks, a merchant and honored citizen who died some years ago. His amiable wife is still living. They were worthy members of the Methodist Church South. Mattie married Rev. J. B. Doughton. She possessed the ennobling virtues that make a preacher a good wife. Ellen married William Hardin, a worthy gentleman. She was a true type of industry, kindness and affection. They both have passed away from the scenes of earth, leaving with their friends evidence that they have gone to join loved ones on the other side of the river.
Hon. Abram Bryan, son of Hon. Francis and Phebe Bryan, married Mrs. Woodruff, formerly Miss Carter. They lived on the old homestead of his parents. Mr. Bryan was truly a good man. His moral, upright life and patriotic love of country and devotion to its best interests, his honest, strict integrity and social disposition gave him the popular good will of the people. He was representative in the senate of the legislature, served as Justice of the Peace for many years--was careful to preserve order in his community. If all persons would live as Abram Bryan lived there would be no guilty to prosecute nor need of defense for the innocent.
Morgan Bryan was a practical farmer and earnest local Methodist preacher. He married Miss Susan Hale, an amiable, good christian lady. William Bryan, who moved to Surry County, was a local Methodist preacher and a man of much moral worth who raised a worthy family. Shadrack Bryan, grandson of Francis Brown, Sr. was a good citizen, of marked industry and a quiet good man. He was a local Methodist minister. He married his cousin, a charming, good lady, and raised a nice family.
John Fender, Sr., was a good citizen. His wife was a Miss Toliver, a worthy, good woman. They raised a most excellent family. Zechariah and Thomas Moxely were good citizens and raised worthy families. Moses Dixon was a worthy, respectable citizen. He married Miss Sarah Osborne and raised a large family whose lineal descendants are scattered far West. They were a persevering and industrious family.
Robert Thompson, an iron manufacturer on Little River, was a very indust- rious, useful man. He supplied the country for a distance around with that article which was so important to produce. Mr. Thompson married a Miss Harbard and raised a praiseworthy family. Major Samuel Thompson, their son, married a Miss Dickey, an excellent lady. They make their home in the same neighborhood.
William Woodruff, a noble citizen married a Miss Thompson, a lady worthy her husband. Mr. Woodruff has been dead many years. His widow married the second time Judge John Gambill, who, as a citizen and county officer, was an honor to his county and people. He is also dead, leaving his amiable wife a widow the second time. She too is dead.
George Reeves, grandson of George Reeves, Sr., was one of Alleghany County's best citizens. He married Miss Nancy Fields, who was a faithful wife, kind mother and charitable neighbor. George Reeves was a conscien- tious christian, had great respect for truth and a good, trustworthy neigh- bor. They raised a family, some of whom and their descendants, have been distinguished for talents and worthy lives. Their grandson, G. A. Oglesby, is a talented minister of the gospel, member of the North Carolina annual conference of the M.E. Church South. Horton Reeves was an honored sold- ier in the Confederate army, clerk of Alleghany County and now a citizen of Texas. His wife was Miss Nancy Alexander, an amiable lady.
F. M. Mitchell, grandson of James Gwyn, of Wilkes County, married Miss Caroline Alexander, a faithful wife, affectionate mother and kind neighbor. Mr. Mitchell was an honorable soldier in the Confederate army, where he lost a leg. He is a good citizen and has been county register for many years. Captain Daniel Whitehead was one of Alleghany County's best citi- zens. He married a Miss Crouse and lived where Whitehead Academy and village is located.
Captain John R. Long, of Cranberry, married a Miss Absher. he was an en- terprising citizen of industry and economy and raised an intelligent family. Hon. Caswell Taylor married their daughter and raised a nice family, char- acterized by energy, industry and perseverance in business departments. Mr. Taylor has represented his county in the state legislature.
Elder Tobias Long was an earnest zealous, Baptist preacher, a good man by example and precept. John Long, his brother, was a member of the denom- ination known as the Christian church. he was ordained by his church and preached occasionally. Dr. Solomon Long, a native and resident of Meadow Fork, Cranberry, and a graduate of Jeffersonian College, Philadelphia. These two brothers, Tobias and John lived on Meadow Fork.
Captain Horton Doughton is an excellent citizen of Alleghany County. He married Miss Rebecca Jones and raised a family that honors parents and country. Captain Doughton was an honored soldier in the Confederate army. He is a public spirited gentleman who has looked with vigilant care and aided in carrying out successfully the best interests of his country. He is a good financial agent and has served as Justice of the Peace for years.
Dr. B. C. Waddell is a graduate of Baltimore Medical College. He resides at Scottsville, in the western part of the county. Dr. B. C. Waddell is a young man of high order of talents. The interest he takes in devoting his time and services in practicing his profession, attending calls day or night, mild or inclement weather kind and pleasant attention to patients, success in prac- tice, has given him an enviable reputation. He married Miss Melissa Bald- win, a lady of intelligence and refinement. They are both pious christians. Dr. George D. Mendinhall practiced his profession in Alleghany County a few years. He is well qualified and successful physician. Dr. C. C. Fowlkes has done considerable practice but is worn out with age and no longer able to wait on his friends as their physician as he once did.
William Black came from Scotland. He married a Miss Allison and settled near where Mt. Zion church now stands, in the western part of the county. He was an earnest, devoted christian. They raised a family of much moral excellence and christian virtues. Their sons were John, Alexander, and David, their daughters, Jennie, Martha, Elizabeth and Mary. John Black married Miss Mary Reedy. Andrew and Lee are their sons: noble men, who have worthy families. Major David Black married a Miss King. They had one child. Mrs. Black died in early life, and the Major married the second time Miss Rena Cox, daughter of Troy Cox, of Virginia. They had one son, Troy, an aspiring young man. Major Black died in the prime of life. His widow married again and is still living, a noble christian lady. Alexander Black married Miss Matilda Hampton. They have one son, Oscar, a young man of bright intellect and promise of a useful life. Their family is an example of prosperity, peaceful enjoyment and christian happiness. Martha Black married Harrison Stamper who lives near Laurel Springs. These good people have given their aid freely to the Methodist church, especially in erecting a house of worship, for which they deserve the thanks of the community. Elizabeth Black married David Pugh, a worthy citizen. She died in early life. Mary Black married Daniel Taylor, Jr. They live near Sparta and are a worthy family. Jennie Black married James Reedy who died many years ago. The widow still lives in the neighborhood of Mt. Zion. Their sons, Lee and Andrew, are honored citizens. The ancestor, William Black, has gone from his labors on earth to reap his reward in heaven, but the seed he sowed are bearing rich fruits in a neighborhood of the best society in the county. David Gilham, native of Floyd County, Va., married Miss Mary Howell and lived near Gap Civil. He was a manufacturer of leather, and was an honest, upright citizen. They raised a worthy family. Their son, George, was an honored soldier in the Confederate army. Another son, Wesley, is a prominent member of the Methodist church and a worthy citizen. Elder George Douglas was an early settler of this county. He was a talented, eloquent minister of the Baptist church and served his people faithfully for many years. His influence will live and live on. Elder Solomon Stamper of Cranberry, a Baptist minister, inclined to be eccentric and humorous, sound in doctrine, fervent in spirit, honored and respected, served his generation faithfully, laid down the silver trumpet for a harp in heaven. Hon. Rufus A. Doughton is a native of Alleghany County. He was born near Laurel Springs Jan. 10th, 1856, and was educated at the High School at Independence, Va., and at the University of North Carolina, at which place he graduated in law during June, 1880. Since that time he has practiced his profession with much success. He was married January the 2nd, 1883, to Miss Sue Parks, and has one son, Kemp, and one daughter, Miss Annie. He was county superintendent of schools in 1883, and 1887 elected to the House of Representative. He was re-elected in 1889 and served as chairman of the committee on education. He was again elected in 1891 and chosen speaker of the House. At the Democratic State convention, in 1892, he was nominated for the second highest state office, and in November elected by a majority of more than forty thousand over his Republican opponent. In 1892 and 1897 he received the nomination of the Democratic party in the legislature for the United States Senate. He is, and has been for a number of years, trustee of the University of North Carolina. In early life he bowed at the shrine of knowledge and employed all the powers of his active mind in acquiring knowledge that would prepare him to serve his country in all that would promote its happiness, prosperity and future welfare. He is a Democrat from principle, but not intolerant with those who differ from him in political sentiment. He is yet a young man and has much promise of usefulness to the state.
Hon. Richard Williams was one of the first settlers of Alleghany County. He was representative in the legislature from 1801 to 1811. He possessed the wisdom and patriotic love of country to govern successfully the newly settled colony. His valuable life and faithful services are worthy a place on the records of history.
James Boyer was one of Alleghany's best citizens. His wife was a Miss Sutherland, of Grayson County, Va., an excellent Christian lady. Alexander Hampton lived in the same neighborhood. His first wife was a Miss Fulton, his second wife a Miss Sutherland. Their son, Rev. Lee Hampton, is an earnest faithful laborer in the church. His sister, Lucinda, an invalid, is a young lady of fine intellectual powers of mind, a pious christian, giving evidence of the comforts of religion in the hour of affliction, that will work a far more exceeding weight of glory. David Maxwell was an industrious, good citizen. He married Mrs. Mary Fields who was a Miss McMillan before her first marriage. They had one son, a kind-hearted, worthy good man, re- spected by the community, was cruelly murdered by Bushwhackers in time of war. His wife was Jane Edwards, a good woman and faithful wife. They had two children, daughter, Laura and son Wiley.
Floyd Cox is a citizen of Alleghany. He married Miss Cynthia Reeves, whose quiet, christian life and faithful devotion to the best interests of her family's welfare and happiness does credit to her head and heart. Floyd Cox has been a practical farmer and good citizen and obliging neighbor. Their son, Wiley, married Miss Laura Maxwell, an intelligent lady, a faithful wife, affectionate mother and kind neighbor. Mr. Cox has served his county as superior court Clerk for a number of years. Julia Cox, their daughter, married Lafayette Williams, an active business man, hotel keeper at Sparta and also a farmer. They have one son, Edgar, an aspiring young man of promise. This family is a model of industry, prudence and economy, quietude, and happiness.
William Carson emigrated from Ireland and settled in Charlotte, N.C., en- gaged in cotton speculation at an early age and became wealthy. He lived to a good, old age. His brothers, John and Andrew, came to North Carolina and settled in Ashe, now Alleghany County. Their families were intelligent, enterprising business people. John Carson's son, Thomas, married a Miss Thompson, whose son Robert, was Clerk of Alleghany County for several years. Another son, Andrew Carson married Miss Emma Boyers and lived in Sparta. Alexander S. Carson, editor of the Alleghany Star, is their son. His sister Miss Ellen is a talented young lady, whose capacity for business has but few equals and no superiors. Another sister, Miss Emma, is also a talented, accomplished and charming young lady. Andrew Carson, Sr. son of John M. Carson, was Sheriff of Ashe County many years and merchand- iser at Jefferson.
Eugene Transou married Miss Laura Cheek, an accomplished lady and lives on Elk Creek. He is one of the best farmers in the county, and is also one of the best farmers in the county, and is also a dealer in livestock. Prof. John M. Cheek, A.M. is a native and citizen of Alleghany County. He mar- ried Miss Mollie, daughter of Judge T. Cornett of Virginia, a lady of culture and refinement. Prof. Cheek is one of the country's most useful men.
Profs. E. L. Wagoner, J. T. Fender, W. R. Gentry, as Principals of instit- utions of learning, have done much for the cause of education. The people of Alleghany County deserve much credit for the interest they are taking in the cause of education. Sparta Institute, under the leadership of Professor S. W. Brown as principal, is an honor to the county.
Dr. John Smith was a worthy citizen of Alleghany County, married Miss Bettie Hawthorne, an excellent, good woman, practiced his profession successfully for many years, was an officer in the Confederate army, and lost an arm. He represented his county in the legislature.
William Hardin was a lawyer, married Miss Ellen Gentry, a most excellent lady. They lived in Sparta and raised an intelligent, energetic family.
Alleghany County has much reason to rejoice in the history of its past and cherish bright hopes for the future.
Ashe County was formed in 1799 from that portion of Wilkes lying west of the extreme height to the Appalachian mountains or Blue Ridge. It is the extreme northwest corner of the state, and bounded on the north by the Virginia line, east by the line separating it from Alleghany, south by the Blue Ridge, which separates it from Wilkes and Watauga, west by Tennessee line, separating it from Johnson County. It was called in honor of Samuel Ashe who was once Governor of the state.
Its surface is uneven, hills and ridges and intervening valleys along the creeks and rivers. The supply of water is abundant. The north and south forks of the New River pass through the county with their tributary streams. There is scarcely a plot of land to be found large enough for an ordinary farm that is not supplied with springs of clear, cold water and streams running through them. The productions are wheat, rye, corn, oats, buck- wheat, sorghum-cane, tobacco, potatoes, flax and a great variety of garden vegetables. The fruit-productions are apples, peaches, pears, quinces, and plums, with many varieties of small fruits, such as cherries, currants, blackberries, strawberries, cranberries, whortleberries and gooseberries. Beautiful groves of timber, oak, hickory, ash, poplar, maple, walnut, pine and cherry. The climate and soil is well adopted to the growth of different grasses, as timothy, clover, redtop, bluegrass, and evergreen.
Jefferson, the county seat, is a good location, laid out for convenience in business departments. Main street is beautifully ornamented by rows of cherry trees on each side of the street. There are dry goods and grocery stores, hotels, law and medical offices, work-shops, school buildings, churches, and fine family residences. The merchants are Major Edward Foster, McNeil, Wm. Transou, Foster and Neal and manufacturers of flour; Felix Barr, mechanic, Captain Joseph Todd, Pell, G. L. Park, Blackburn, R. H. McNeill, George Bower and Davis are lawyers. The doctors are J. B. Roberts, Wiley Colvard and Manly Blevins. County Clerk, Sidney Eller; county register D. A. Osborne. Resident ministers Rev. William H. Robbins, and Allen Jones. Superintendent of Sunday School, John Neal.
The population of Jefferson is made up of active, enterprising business people of moral excellence. The churches are Methodist and Presbyterian. In giving a statement of the population of Ashe County from its earlier settlements to the present time we can give only a partial list of prominent persons and families, many whose honorable, useful lives will doubtless be left out, but it is intended to give a correct account of those who, when this highly favored land was wild Indian country, periled their lives through privations, dangers, hardships, and toil opened the way to happy homes, fruitful fields, good society in a christian land of schools and churches.
Henry Poe, Martin Gambill, Thomas Sutherland, Timothy Perkins, Captain John Cox, Henry Hardin, Canada Richardson, James Douglas, Daniel Dick- erson, brothers, and Elijah Callaway were men of steady habits who did much for the good of society, and the fruits of their labors are enjoyed by those who live afterwards. At a later date just as worthy citizens were William Gambill--whose wife was Cynthia Cox, daughter of Captain John Cox, Sr.,--Nicholas Gentry, James Baker and Elijah Callaway. The latter was a soldier at Norfolk, Va. in the war of 1812, and represented his county in the legislature six sessions and his district in the senate five sessions. We failed to learn the name of his wife. They raised a family worthy parents. Dr. James Callaway, of Wilkes County, was their son.
Col. George Bower was a native of Ashe County, a merchant, farmer, live- stock raiser and hotelist at Jefferson. He married a Miss Bryant the first time and Miss America Rosseau the second time. He was state senator, was elector on the ticket that elected General Andrew Jackson President both terms. Other citizens were Col. Andrew McMillan, Absalom Bower, James and Theodore Woodie and Stephen Thomas. The latter's wife was a Miss Perkins, daughter of Timothy Perkins. Edward Weaver and Meredith Ballou were iron manufacturers. Zachariah Baker's wife was Zylphia Dickson. The wife of Joshua Baker, Sheriff, was also a Miss Dickson. Frederick Severt was a worthy citizen, Mathew Carson, was a representa- tive in the State Legislature, Edward Foster was a member of the conven- tion and representative in the legislature.
Andrew Dickson's name carries the profound respect of the community with it. Mr. Dickson is one of the oldest men now living in the county. His wife was Miss Mary McMillan, a worthy lady. They have raised a family that honored parents and country. Hon. Marshall Dickson was respected soldier in the Confederate army, Sheriff, Clerk of the Superior court, and repre- sentative in the state legislature. He married Miss Juda Halsey, an amiable good woman.
John Koontz, who married Miss Cornelia Colvard, an estimable and worthy christian lady, was the son of Rev. Jacob Koontz was an humble minister of the gospel in the Baptist church, a good neighbor and an upright man. Alexander Dickson, Jesse B. McMillan, and Alexander McMillan, Jr., are worthy citizens and have excellent families. Captain Andrew McMillan a citizen of Nathan's Creek, who commanded a company in the Confederate army, is a true friend to his country. His wife was a Miss Reeves, a good christian lady. She has gone to a happy home in the better land. Joshua Cox, grandson of Captain John Cox, of Revolutionary renown, lives in the neighborhood and is an old man. He has been twice married and raised two families. He is a respected, worthy gentlemen.
Jesse Reeves, Sr., was one of the early settlers of the county. He lived on New River at the mouth of Peak Creek, about eight miles east of Jefferson. The location was first made by old Mr. Dick. He was twice married; first to a Miss Terrell, second to Miss Mary Bower. He was a successful farmer and respected citizen. His sleeping dust rests besides that of his beloved wife, Mary, in the family graveyard.
Levi Gentry married Miss Nancy Plummer, an excellent woman, whose christian life was an ornament to home and community. Mr. Gentry was one of the county's best citizens, a practical farmer and good neighbor. Mr. Gentry, wife, son, Andrew, and daughters Sarah and Amanda, were mem- bers of the Methodist church. Their three sons entered the Confederate army. It is worthy of note that the Gentry family have been distinguished for their principles and patriotic love of constitutional liberty and justice. These young men of moral worth left the endearments of home and friends under a sense of duty and laid their lives on their county's altar. Their names were Andrew, Joseph, and Levi. It was a source of deep sorrow when the news came of their death. Levi was a mere youth, a good boy, and loved by all who knew him. These brothers were regarded by the entire community as young men of bright character and future promise. Andrew Gentry left an excellent wife and children to mourn the loss of a good husband and kind father.
Col. Andrew McMillan's residence was on Nathan's Creek. He married a Miss Fields, a most excellent woman. He was good upright citizen and raised an honorable family. He married the second time the widow Justice. Several of the family have been described on preceding pages.
Dr. B. E. Reeves, son of Andrew and Mahala Reeves, was born at Lamar, Ashe County, N.C., on September 21st, 1866, was educated in the com- mon schools of the county, studied medicine and graduated in the Baltimore College of Medicine and Surgery, April 14th, 1891. He has been actively employed since that time in the practice of his profession, and from untiring patience genial kindness and success in practice made himself a most pop- ular physician. He married Miss Pauline Welborne, a lady of talents edu- cation and refinement, such as light up happy homes and cheer the Doctor in the arduous toils of his profession. Dr. Reeves, in the true spirit of patriotism, has taken a deep interest in advocating the principles and de- fending the purity of liberty and justice as set forth in the Declaration of Independence and Constitution of the United States, the grandest super- structure of civil government ever devised and established by the wisdom and genius of man. He is chairman of the Democratic executive committee. He was elected to the legislature in 1898, and was chairman of the commit- tee on public health in the historic legislature on 1899. The county needs and has to depend on such men as Dr. Reeves to preserve the priceless heri- tage of our foreparents, and illustrious founders of the government at the cost of life and treasure. May future generations perpetuate their memory, follow their example, cherish their principles of opposition to tyranny and oppression, and love of home and country.
Edward and William Weaver were honored citizens who had worthy families. Rev. Hiram and Elihu Weaver were local preachers in the Methodist Church South. Their labors will remain bright and bear fruit long after they have laid down their silver trumpets and gone to reap their reward in heaven. Rev. Dr. James Wagg was a faithful minister of the gospel in the Methodist Church and a successful physician. He raised a family noted for intelligence and moral worth. Their son, Rev. Eugene Wagg, is a member of the West- ern North Carolina Conference, filling stations and P.E., and an able minister of the gospel. Another son, Rev. John Wagg was a fluent speaker and pul- pit orator. Another son, Dr. Alfred Wagg, is a good citizen and well qualif- ied physician. Captain Samuel Wagg, their brother, commanded a company from Ashe County in the Confederate army, a brave and chivalrous officer who was devoted to duty and kind to his company. He fell in the battle at Gettysburg--that field of carnage where such men as Captain Wagg, Col. Sidney Stokes, Gen. James B. Gordon, and private, patriotic, country-loving soldiers fell, and where Gen. Pettigrew was killed while bringing out the shattered army. Such men's names and noble deeds are worthy to be plac- ed on the golden pages of history and retained in memory on living hearts.
Rev. James Weaver, son of preacher Hiram Weaver, is a member of the Western North Carolina Conference, an eloquent pulpit orator, has been presiding Elder and is now stationed in Salisbury. The useful ministers of the Gospel, laboring to cultivate Immanuel's land, and establish the peaceful kingdom of Christ on earth for the glory of God and salvation of souls, are native of Ashe County. Jefferson has two resident ministers. Rev. William W. Robbins, member of the Western North Carolina Conference, whose zeal and untiring devotion to his ministerial work has endeared him to his people. Rev. Allen Jones, a Presbyterian minister, stationed at Jefferson, is a popular literary teacher and an active laborer in the ministry. Rev. Ernest Gillespie is synodical superintendent of missions for the state of N.C. Rev. Wm. A. Murry is a Presbyterian evangelist. These gentlemen are well qual- ified ministers of the gospel, whose faithful labors are accomplishing much toward building up the Redeemer's kingdom on earth.
Major Ed Foster, merchant and manufacturer of leather; McNiel and Transou are dealers in dry goods and groceries, Colvard, Roberts and Blevins are successful physicians; Felix Barr and Elzy Brown are good mechanics; Sid- ney Eller, Clerk; F. A. Osborne, Register; Gaither McNeil, Sheriff; two church edifices and parsonages, telephone office, and two hotels. The Mountain hotel, were every accommodation that the heart could desire, with cheerful attention, from Martin Hardin the gentlemanly proprietor, his excellent lady and her accomplished sister. The fine steel roller flour mill of this place is an important benefit to the surrounding country. The splendid meadows, green pasture fields of luxurious growths of grass, makes Ashe County one the leading, if not first counties in the State for raising livestock. The abundant fruits in great varieties, its crystal streams of pure, cold water and salubrious atmosphere, make Ashe County one of the fav- ored parts of the earth for happy homes.
Nicholas Gentry was a resident of Ashe County. His farm and home were one Nathan's Creek. He was his praiseworthy wife raised a family of in- telligent, enterprising children, who have much to the welfare and good of society. Their daughter Mary, married James Richardson, a worthy citizen of Cranberry. Elizabeth married James Smith, Sallie married William Turner, James Gentry married Miss Mary Smith, a very quiet, good woman, and liv- ed on New River, eight miles east of Jefferson. They had two sons, Nich- olas and Richard, noble, moral, good young men. They both fell in the Confederate army. Hon. Richard Gentry married a Miss Harboard, an ami- able lady. His residence was at Old Field, in the southern part of the county. Mr. Gentry was a man of great energy, a systematic farmer, min- ister of the gospel in the Baptist church, and employed his superior talents not only in preaching the gospel, but in warmly advocating the cause of temperance. He filled the office of Justice of the Peace, was representative in both branches of the legislature and was Clerk of the superior court of Ashe County for many years. Taken all together, he was a remarkable man, combining so many qualifications for useful employment for the good of society. It is fortunate for any community that such men employ their time and talents for the good of their country, when they live and labor among them.
Aquilla Greer came from Franklin County, Va., at an early day and settled on Grassy Creek, in the northern part of the county. He was an enterprising business man, and fitted up one of the nicest farms in the county. He married a Miss Fielder, of Elk Creek, Va. They had one son and two daughters. One of their daughters married Ephraim Gentry, a worthy citizen who lived in Grayson County, near New River, six or seven miles south east of Independence. Another daughter married Elias Draughn. His son, John F. Greer was an upright, persevering man. He married a Miss Jones of Caldwell County, N.C. He was a successful farmer, live-stock dealer and for many years conducted successfully a large mercantile business, and perhaps sold more general merchandise than any one store keeper who did business in the county, giving general satisfaction to his large number of customers. Esquire Greer's son's were determined, energetic business men. Catlett Greer and his brother, John, were highly respected good soldiers in the Confederate army. The two men and their brother Jones Greer, have passed away from the active business of life. Calvin Greer, their only brother now living, is one of Grassy Creek's best citizens. he married Miss Mary Pierce, a daughter of Rufus and Elizabeth Pierce, a charming good woman. Mr. Greer is a successful farmer, producer and is a dealer in fine cattle and other livestock. They have an excellent family of much moral worth.
Martin Gambill, who married a Miss Nall, was one of the first settlers of the county on New River, in the eastern part. He was a true patriot in the days of the Revolution. Colonel Ben Cleveland sent a letter to him by a messen- ger to carry to Col. William Campbell. He went to Enoch Osborne, who liv- ed on New River, near the mouth of Bridle Creek, Va., to borrow a horse. Esquire Enoch Osborne took the harness off of his horse, where he was plowing, and loaned to him to ride to Washington County, Va. Colonel Campbell, in compliance with the request, came with three hundred and fifty men and joined Cleveland, McDowell, Lenoir and others to meet Col. Ferguson the British commander of English and Tories. Mr. Martin Gambill died soon after the war. His amiable widow lived to a great age, loved, honored and respected. William Gambill and his worthy lady lived and died on the same farm. Their son, Esquire James Gambill, married Miss Lucy Reeves of Virginia. Esquire Gambill, after living a useful citizen, good neighbor and worthy christian, passed over to the shore of immortality, leaving his faithful good wife a widow. Their son, Preston, is also a good citizen, living in the same neighborhood. He married Miss Bettie Colvard, daughter of William and Sallie Colvard, who adorns her home as a cheerful good wife and mother.
Esquire Rufus Pierce lived on south fork of New River a short distance east of Chestnut Hill. He married Miss Elizabeth Scott, of Smyth County, Va. She possessed the ennobling virtues of true womanhood and a true spirit of christian kindness. She was a loving light in a happy home. Esquire Pierce was a stay in his neighborhood, to sustain civil government, and a pillow to the church. Their example for industry and economy in providing well for the temporal comforts of life, and the part they took in the cause of true christian religion, is an example that cannot die. St. Paul said in his letter to the Hebrews: "By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts, and by it he being dead yet speaketh.
Esquire Stephen Thomas, a native of Grayson County, Va., was for many years a worthy citizen of Ashe County, at Creston, was an extensive farmer, Justice of the Peace, merchant, and live-stock raiser. He married a Miss Perkins, the daughter of Timothy Perkins, one of the pioneer settlers of Grayson County, Va., an intell