Avoyelles Parish, Louisiana History and Genealogy
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Dr. E. de Nux, physician and surgeon, Marksville, La. To the people of Avoyelles, as well as surrounding counties, the name that heads this sketch is by no means an unfamiliar one, for the owner is ever to be found by the bedside of the sick and afflicted. He was born in Auch, France, in 1842, and is the son of Emeric and Berthe (Gardere) de Nux, natives also of France. The father was a descendant of one of the wealthy and prominent families of that country. He and his wife both received their final summons in their native country, the father dying in 1856, and the mother in 1866. Dr. E. de Nux received his education at Toulouse College and at St. Barbe, Paris, but received his medical education in the last named city. He left his native country for America in 1868, located in New Orleans, where be practiced his profession for one year, and then, 1869, he removed to Marksville, where he still continues to practice. He is a physician of decided ability, a thorough student of medicine, and his reputation is thoroughly established. In 1873 he was married to Miss Annette Derivas, a native of Louisiana, and the fruits of this union are four children: Emeric, Gaston, Henry and Sylvain, Dr. de Nux and family are members of the Catholic Church. Dr. C. J. Ducote was born in the town in which he is now residing (Cottonport, La.) on November 8, 1849, to Joseph and Eliza (Ducote) Ducote, both of whom were born in Avoyelles Parish of this State.

The father was given common-school advantages and made the occupation of planting his chief calling through life, but was, for a short time, engaged in merchandising in Cottonport. He died when about eighty years of age, in 1882, but his widow is still a resident of Cottonport, and is, as was her husband, a member of the Catholic Church. Dr. C. J. Ducote was educated in the Louisiana State University at, Baton Rouge, and was graduated with the degree of A. B. in the class of 1871. For the two years succeeding his graduation he was principal of St. Joseph's Academy of Baton Rouge, which school was very flourishing under his management. In 1873 he entered the medical department of the University of Louisiana, now the Tulane University of New Orleans, from which institution he was sent out as an M. D. in 1875. During the last year the excellent manner in which he passed his examinations was the means of obtaining him the position of resident student in the Charity Hospital, a position that greatly increased his knowledge of his profession.

Upon the completion of his course he located permanently at Cottonport, and entered actively upon the practice of his profession, which calling has since received his attention. He has met with phenomenal success as a physician, and today stands at the head among his medical brethren. He possesses a brilliant intellect, am! has the utmost confidence of all with whom he comes in con tact, for be is the thorough master of his profession, and meets with the host of success in the management of the cases which come under his care. He was married in 1875 to Miss Mary E. Day, a daughter of Dr. E. H. Day of Baton Rouge, a practicing physician of that city, and professor of the Polytechnic School of New Orleans.

Dr. Ducote and his wife are the parents of three children: Joseph Richard (attending Spring Hill College), and Ethel Lee and Beatrice (attending the Convent of Visitation of Mobile. Ala.). Dr. Ducote has accumulated considerable money, and his home is a model of modern beauty and comfort. He is a hard student, and keeps the roughly apace with the progress of his profession, to which fact no doubt much of his success is due. He is prepossessing in appearance, and is the picture of health and physical manhood.

John Ewell, planter, Evergreen, La. Mr. Ewell is a gentleman who has been' exceptionally successful in his career as a planter, and owing to his desire to keep out of the old ruts, and to his ready adoption of new and improved methods, together with energy and shrewd business tactics, he has acquired an extensive land area, embracing at least 2,000 acres, with 050 acres under cultivation. The principal part of his broad acres are devoted to the culture of sugar cane, and his plantation is one, of the finest in the State. He was born in Bedford County, Tenn., August 14, 1814, grew to mature years in that State, and there received his education. In 1834 he removed to Louisiana, and for seventeen years was an overseer in different parishes of that State. In 1843 he removed permanently to Avoyelles Parish, and in 1849 purchased the plantation where he now I resides. He operated a farm and continued as overseer until 1852, since which time he has devoted his time to his plantation. In 1853 he was I married to Mrs. Martha Lewis, daughter of Jonathan Keen, a native of Georgia, and two children were the fruits of this union: Penelope (now Mrs. Y. T. Heard) and Virginia. Mrs. Ewell died in 1800. Mr." Ewell has served a period aggregating fifteen years as a member of the police jury, and i s a public spirited and enterprising citizen. He and family are members of the Baptist Church, in which they are active workers and esteemed members.

He was for many years president of the board of trustees of Evergreen Home Institute, and was one of the founders of the same. He is a Blue Lodge Mason at Evergreen Lodge. His parents, John and Mary (Kennerly) Ewell, were both natives of Virginia, in which State they grew to mature years, and in which State they were married. In 175)8 they removed to Tennessee, and there the father's death occurred in 1827 when fifty-six years of ago, and the mother's in 1802 fit the ago of eighty-three years. The father was a fanner and was quite a prominent man. Grandfather Ewell came to Virginia from Wales, find Grandfather Kennerly came to Virginia from Germany.

William M. Ewell, planter, Evergreen, La. No worthy reference to the agricultural affairs of this parish would be complete without mention of Mr. Ewell among others, engaged in tilling the soil. Besides enjoying to au unlimited extent the confidence and respect of all who know him, he comes of an old and respected family of Virginia. Mr. Ewell was born in Bedford County, Tenn., on March 20, 1830, and his parents, Leighton and Susan (Blanton) Ewell, were natives of Virginia and Tennessee, respectively. Leighton Ewell re moved with his parents to Tennessee when a boy, grew to man hood, and received his education there, and followed the life of a planter. He died when about only twenty-five or thirty years of age, leaving two children, one a sister, besides our subject. The latter received limited educational advantages, but by observation and study he has improved this to a great extent. He moved to Avoyelles Parish in 1849, and shortly afterward was engaged as overseer for a prominent planter in that parish. Later he embarked in the mercantile business at Evergreen.

In 1853 he was wedded to Miss P. A. Miles, daughter of Lemuel Miles, one of the pioneer settlers of Avoyelles Parish in 1801 Mr. Ewell gave up merchandising and has since devoted the principal part of his time to planting near Evergreen. In the year 1801 he went out as a volunteer in Company H, Sixteenth Louisiana Infantry, operated with the army of Tennessee, and was in all the engagements of the army up to the fall of Vicksburg. He went out as orderly sergeant, and was promoted to sergeant-major after the battle of Shiloh. From the fall of Vicksburg to the dose of the war he was engaged as the special agent of the treasury department of the Confederate States to receive money at Richmond, Va., and transmit it across the Mississippi.

It was paid out at Shreveport, La., and at Marshall, Tex. Mr. Ewell was engaged in this business until the close of the war. Since 1858 he has been a notary public and magistrate most of the time up to the present. For years he has been mayor of Evergreen, and has always been interested in local politics. He is a prominent Mason, and has occupied prominent positions in both the home and State lodges for thirty years. He and his estimable wife are members of the Baptist Church. Their family consists of four children: L. B., Susan E. (wife of Dr. J. J. Roberts, Hillsboro, Tex.), William V. and M. B. Mr. Ewell's farming operations are conducted in a manner indicative of a progressive, thorough agriculturist, and he is a man of industry and enterprise. Dr. George Edward Randolph Fox was born in De Soto, Clarke County, Miss., September 1, 1803, and, is the eldest son of David R. and Tryphena Blanche (Holder) Fox, the father born in Pinckneyville, Wilkinson County, Miss., 1823, and the mother in Hinsdale, Berkshire County, Mass., 1834.

David Raymond Fox, at the age of four years, was taken to Montville, Conn., where he remained five years, when he returned to his father's home in Warren County, Miss., where he received his education at private school. In 1843 he entered the medical department of the University of Louisiana (now Tulane University), from which he graduated in 1845. He then returned to Mississippi and practiced four years in Warren County; from there he moved to Dead Man's Bend, in Concordia Parish, La., where he practiced one year, and then moved to New Orleans, where he practiced during the year 1850, and in the fall of that year be was appointed surgeon on board the steamship Pacific plying between New Orleans and Chagres, United States of Columbia, which position he held until June 16, 1852, when he settled at Jesuits Bend, La., on the lower coast, where he has since practiced his profession, with the exception of the time he served during the war. He was appointed surgeon with the rank of major in the spring of 1862, by Gen. Joe Johnston, and placed in charge of the Gregg Hospital at, De Soto, Miss.; was afterward stationed tit De Kalb, and subsequently was appointed president of the Conscript Bureau at, Aberdeen, Miss., where he remained until the close of the war, when he returned home in Louisiana.

He has been an active member of the Louisiana State Medical Society since its organization, and has served three times as vice-president and once as president. He was vice-president of the fourteenth section of the Ninth International Medical Congress, which met at Washington in 1877, and is a member of the American Medical Association. He and his worthy wife are both members of the Episcopal Church. The paternal grandfather, Rev. James A. Fox, was a native of Montville, Conn., and was a distinguished Episcopal minister of the diocese of Mississippi. He was a graduate of Yale College in the class of 18.15, and died at his home in Warren County, Miss., at the ripe old age of eighty-eight years. He' was a lineal descendant of Charles J times Fox. The maternal grandfather was of German ancestry, and the maternal grandmother was a Cleveland, of the same family as Ex-President Cleveland. Dr. George E. E. Fox received private schooling at home until sixteen years of age and then entered the Louisiana State University at Baton Rouge, where he completed an elective course in 1884. The following year he entered the medical department of Tulane University of Louisiana, from which be graduated in 1887. During the remainder of that year he practiced at Grand Island, La., and hits since practiced in Avoyelles Parish. Dr. Fox is a young man of more than ordinary ability, is strictly attentive to his profession, and his success has been far above the average.

 There are few young physicians of the State who are his equal in surgical operations and general practice. He is a member of the Louisiana State Medical Society. Thomas P. Frith. Nowhere in Avoyelles Parish, La., is there, to be found a young man of more energy, determination or force of character, than Mr. Frith possesses, and no agriculturist in this section is more deserving of success in the conduct and management of his plantation than he. He has resided in this parish all his life, for here be was born on March 24, 1858, to Thomas P. and Sarah A. (Cullom) Frith, the birth of the former occurring in the State of Mississippi. He removed to Louisiana at the age of sixteen years, to take charge of a plantation which his father owned in Avoyelles Parish, and as his early advantages were very poor, and he was desirous of becoming a well informed man and a useful citizen, he brought a number of books with him, and his leisure hours were devoted to their perusal and study. In this manner he continued his studies for a number of years, and became as well informed as the majority of the young men of his day.

After serving in the Confederate Army for some time, he was obliged to discontinue his service on account of ill health, but afterward did valuable service at home in defending the country from the depredations of stragglers from both armies. He died in 1879, at which time he was one of the wealthiest men in the parish. His widow survives him and resides at Evergreen. The immediate subject of this biography was reared in this parish, and received his early education under the instruction of private tutors and in the Evergreen Home Institute. Upon completing his education, he took charge of the Frith estate, as manager for his mother, who is administration, and as this estate is very extensive, the cares of its management are arduous. Mr. Firth is a gentleman of tine business capacity, and is thoroughly honorable and reliable in every transaction, a fact that has become generally known. He is a Royal Arch Mason, and is a member of Evergreen Lodge No. 185). In 1883 he was married to Miss Annie Taylor, of St. Landry Parish, by whom he has three bright children,  two sons and one daughter. Mr. Frith is of Scotch find English descent.

E. Ganthier, merchant and planter, Moreanville, La. Mr. Ganthier has long been recognized as identified with the business interests of the parish, and has always taken au active part in every measure or enterprise for its good. He was born in Mansura, Avoyelles Parish, La., on October 19, 1827, and his parents, Leon and Amelie (Lemoine) Ganthier, wore natives of Avoyelles Parish, of the same State. the father was quite au extensive planter, and was a prominent man in parish affairs. Both parents were members of the Catholic Church. The father received his final summons in 1840, and the mother in 1852. E. Ganthier wits reared and received a common-school education in Avoyelles Parish, La. In 1850 he removed from Mansura to the plantation where he now resides.

Previous to this, and shortly after the death of the mother, E. Ganthier, with his brother, Leon, purchased the home plantation, which they have improved and kept in a tine condition. In 1865) Mr. Ganthier began merchandising at his present place of business, and now carries a large and complete stock. He is a thoroughgoing, persevering and enterprising business man, and is eminently deserving of all business success. He is held in high esteem in the community. He has been a member of the police jury, and is a representative citizen of Avoyelles Parish. He was married in 1848, to Miss Adeline Moreau, daughter of Celestin and Anne (Coco) Moreau. Mr. Moreau was a planter by occupation, and one of the pioneer settlers of Avoyelles Parish. Mrs. Ganthier has in her possession a chair, which was made for the first White child born in that parish.

To Mr. and Mrs. Ganthier were born the following children: E. T. (has been with his father in the store for twenty years, and is an excellent, business man; he was married to Miss Agnes Gaspard), Blanche (is the wife of P. Rabalais), Eose (is the widow of F. P. Bordelon, deceased), Eloise (wife of B. L. Mayenx), Noemie (wife of L. P. Roy), J. U. and Athalie. Mr. Ganthier and his estimable lady arc members of the Catholic Church. G. B. Genin, general merchant of Evergreen. La., is one of the successful business men of the parish, and has done much to add to the commercial reputation of the Parish of Avoyelles. His birth occurred in St. Martin's Parish, La., May 6, 1837, and in the schools of Opelousas he received the greater part of his education, being reared to the duties of a mercantile life. At the age of sixteen years he began clerking for himself in a general store in New Orleans, in which city he remained until 1861, when he entered the Confederate Army, find served four years, being in Virginia under Gen. Lee, and in the first battle of Manassas and at Appomattox Court House. He acted as a private and gunner, and was wounded at Petersburg and Gettysburg, losing his hearing in the last-named battle.

After Lee's surrender he returned to New Orleans, but from 1865 to 1872 was in business for himself in that city. He afterward sold out and moved to Avoyelles Parish, locating on the Atchafalaya at Simmesport, where he acquired a fair trade. Through his instrumentality he raised the growth of cotton from 718 to over 7,000 bales per year, and he also took au active part in building up the Catholic Churches at that point, and during his residence there made a considerable amount of money. The overflow of the Mississippi River damaged him so seriously, financially, that he left Simmesport to seek fresh fields for his endeavors, and in 1884 located in Evergreen, where he has since been doing a large and paying business at his present stand. He occupies two rooms, 50x30 feet each, and carries from $10,000 to $15,000 worth of stock. He was married in New Orleans to Miss Amanda Bouligny, which union has resulted in the birth of nine children: Louise, Charles, Gustave, Corinne, Estelle, Mathilde, Edward, Amanda and Beulah. Mr. Genin and his family are strict Roman Catholics.

His father came to America after the battle of Waterloo and the capture of Napoleon Bonaparte. A. E. Gremillion is a notary public of Marksville, and as he was born in this parish on January 23, 1859, his many good qualities have become known, and he is respected and liked by his numerous acquaintances. He attended the public schools of the town in his youth, and being intelligent and industrious he made excellent progress in his books, and upon finishing his education was well equipped to make his own way in the world. His ability and steadiness were rewarded in 1880, and he was elected to the position of clerk of the parish court, a position for which ho was admirably fitted, for he had been familiar with the work from the time he was fourteen years of age, his first work being done under his father. He has since held the position, which speaks in an eloquent manner as to his ability, faithfulness and honesty. He was married in the mouth of July, 1878, to Miss Eliza Firment, and by her has four intelligent and interesting children: Arthur L., Edine, Lionel and Wis. His father, L. V. Gremillion, was a former recorder of the parish from 1856 until 1868, and from 1879 until I8S6 was clerk of the court, and was an exceptionally able official. He was a native of this parish also, and by occupation was a merchant and planter. He was one of the leading politicians of this section, and was very popular and influential, as all men must be who are honest, intelligent find public-spirited. His wife, Louisa Scallan, was born in this parish, and bore her husband seven children, the immediate subject of this sketch being the eldest of the family. She is still living and is quite hale and hearty.

A. M. Gremillion, publisher and proprietor of Marksville Review, is a native of Avoyelles Parish, La., born in 1841, and as he grew up in his native parish he received his education in the schools of the same. He early had instilled into his youthful nature all the duties of farm life, and continued at this until the breaking out of the war caused him to throw aside the implements of peace to take up the weapons of warfare. He enlisted in the Confederate Army, Company I, Eighteenth Louisiana Regiment, and was in service for four years.

He participated in the battles of Mansfield, Pleasant Hill, was in battle with the gunboats and various skirmishes. He was captured at Franklin, La., and was confined in New Orleans for a mouth. After the war he was engaged in merchandising for several years, and also taught school for some time, He was assessor and register of the parish for two years, was mayor of the town one term, and was alderman for six years. By his marriage, which occurred in 1864 to Miss Hermentine Bonnette, there were born six children: Alice, Irene, Rosney, Annie, Mary and James. Mr. Gremillion's father. Martin Gremillion, was born in Louisiana, was a farmer and a resident of this parish from the time he was a boy. He was one of the early assessors of the parish. He is now deceased. The mother's maiden name was Clemence Rabalais. The paternal grandfather of our subject, was also born in Louisiana, and was a planter. J. F. Griffin is a planter and merchant at, Big Bend. La. He was born in this parish on February 23, 1854, to James B. and Eliza E. (Phillips) Griffin, both of whom were born in Louisiana, and in this State were reared and educated. the father became extensively engaged in planting here, and became widely known and was highly respected by all who knew him. He served his parish as police juror, and although he was a man interested in everything for the good of his community, he took no prominent part in political affairs. His brother, William F. Griffin, was a general in the Confederate Army during the Rebellion, and afterward became a very prominent politician of Louisiana, and served in both houses of the State Legislature, making an able, incorruptible and zealous legislator. J. F. Griffin was reared and educated in this State, and in 1875 was united in the bonds of matrimony to Miss Ann J. Harvard, a native of this parish and a daughter of Monroe Harvard.

His wife died the second year of their marriage, and in 1877 Miss Effie L. Havard became his second wife. He first, began business for himself as a planter, and has devoted much of his time to this calling ever since, and although his first efforts as a tiller of the soil were on fifteen acres of land he has met with more than an average degree of success, and is now the possessor of 1,000 acres with 500 under cultivation. He has a large cotton-gin on his property which he operates in connection with managing his plantation and his general mercantile store. He raises 350 bales of cotton each year, and is one of the most progressive men in his views in the parish. He is now a member of the police jury from Ward 7, and is proving an intelligent and painstaking official. C. Grimillion, planter, Moreanville, La. This name is not unfamiliar in Avoyelles Parish, for be wdio bears it is a native born resident of the parish, and is numbered among the highly-respected citizens of the same. His birth occurred in 1827, and he is the son of V. and E. (Rabalais) Grimillion, both also natives of the Creole State. The father was a planter. The maternal great-grandfather of our subject, J. B. Rabalais, was the first man who settled in Avoyelles Parish, and our subject's aunt, Celeste Rabalais. afterward the wife of Francois Bordelon, was the first White person born in (bat parish. C. Grimillion was reared and received an ordinary education in his native parish, and as he was early trained to the duties of the plantation, it was but natural, perhaps, that this should be his chosen calling in life. He is the owner of a tine plantation of about 100 acres, and raises large crops of cotton. He was married in 1849 to Miss Azema Lemoine, daughter of Z. Lemoine, who is a planter and a native of this parish.

In 1888 Mr. Grimillion was appointed police juror from Ward 8, and has filled that position in a satisfactory manner up to the present time. He served in the latter part of the war, but was not in any of the large battles, although he was in many severe skirmishes. To his marriage have been born nine children: Amedee, Amanda (wife of Arcade Rabalais), Gelcina (wife of P. Rabalais), Ezilda (wife of Arcade La Cour), J. D., Anna (wife of F. J. Beyt), Clara (wife of D. C. Chaliau), Mary and Eugene (wife of E. N. Dufour).

Dr. William David Haas, physician and surgeon, Haasville, La. Few, if any, industries of professional pursuits have, within the last, few years made such rapid strides as that of the profession The different members of this family spell their names differently; of medicine, and among the young but very successful physicians of Avoyelles Parish, La., who have Wailed themselves of all new ideas, and put them in practice, is Dr. W. D. Haas. He was born in Rapides Parish, La., in 1.867, and is the son of Alexander M and Mary M. Marshall Haas, the former a native of Alsace, France. Dr. W. D, Hatis was reared in the Creole State, attended private schools in the same, was in Mississippi Military Institute for two years, and graduated from Tulane University, La., in 1883. Immediately upon completion of his literary course he entered Jefferson Medical College in the city of Brotherly Love and graduated from the same in 1887. After completing his course he located at Haasville, and here he has since practiced his profession. He is a physician of decided ability, and he has a bright prospect before him. He was married, in July, 1889, to Miss Hattie Haas, daughter of Capt. Samuel Haas, of Bayou Chicot, La. Capt. Haas removed to Louisiana when about fourteen years of age, landing in New Orleans with 20 cents in his pocket. Later he joined his brother in the mercantile business in Bayou Chicot, and carried this on until the breaking out of the war, when he enlisted in Company G, First Louisiana Cavalry.

xxHe was in the army of Tennessee, and took part in nearly all the bottles from Bowling Green, through East and Middle Tennessee, Alabama and Mississippi, either as scout, or advanced picket. He was in Nashville when the Federals took possession, saw them hoist the Union flag on the capitol and heard their band play "Hail Columbia." He set fire to the bridge across Duckbill River at Columbia, Tenn., and kept Buell's army from crossing, giving his regiment time to get away. He was sent home from East Tennessee very ill.

While home Gen. Bank's army passed through the State, find Capt. Hans having regained his health, but still under furlough, volunteered his services to Col. Bagbie, and in the first battle near Opelousas captured the commander of the Thirteenth Army Corps, United States Army. After this Gen. Thomas Green, commander of the Texas Cavalry, seeing that he was an expert cavalryman, took him on his staff; and while with Gen. Green he had three horses killed under him at the battle of Mansfield. He was with him in the battle of Mansfield and Pleasant Hill, and remained with him until he was killed at Blair's Landing. Bed River. After this ho went with Gen. Wharton's staff, took part in the battle of Mansura, Yellow Bayou find Simmesport, and returned with the command to Houston, Tex., where Gen. Wharton was killed in a personal difficulty with Maj. Baylor.

They surrendered at Shreveport. Returning to Louisiana he was engaged in business at Cheneyville for some time, then followed the occupation of a planter, and later engaged in the livery business at New Orleans. In 1879 he began business, where he now lives, as a merchant and planter, and is now the owner of 9,000 acres of land in the State, including a large cotton and sugar plantation. In his store at Haasville, in which he and the Doctor are equal partners, he does an annual business of about $30,000 or $40,000. William Hall, although a resident of Marksville, La., was born in Mobile, Ala., October 3, 1842, but at the age of eleven years came to Louisiana, and grew to manhood in St. Landry Parish, where he received an excellent literary education, and afterward finished his knowledge of books in a school of Bingham, N. C., graduating in the classical course. He subsequently commenced the study of law, but gave up this work to enter the Confederate Army upon the opening of the Rebellion, enlisting from St. Landry Parish in Company K, Eighteenth Louisiana Regiment, going out as sergeant and serving in Bragg's Army.

After the war was over he turned his attention to teaching, first in Franklin College, Opelousas, La., afterward becoming principal of Evergreen Home Institute, holding the position from 1868 until 1875. At the end of this time he came to Marksville, and while engaged in teaching the young idea at this place was elected parish judge, the duties of which office he has tilled admirably ever since. He has also been superintendent of public instruction for Avoyelles Parish, and although the schools had become very poor under Republican rule, be did much to remodel and improve them, and they are now in a flourishing condition, and are a credit to the parish and to his endeavors. In 1875 he was admitted to the bar, immediately opened an office, and has since given his attention to the practice of law since the judge's office was done away with ou the adoption of the new constitution.

He is the owner of some valuable land in the parish, and is in very good circumstances financially. In this parish he was married to Miss May H. Campbell, by whom he has three children: William Henry, Mamie B. and William W. Mr. Hall's father was a sugar merchant of Mobile, Ala., and his grandfather, who was of English descent, was born in Winchester, Va. William Hall is one of the public spirited citizens of the parish, and as editor of the Marksville Review he does till in his power to improve the morals of this section and to build up the community.

Henry Monroe H. Ward is a resident of Tilden, La., but, was born in Adams County, Miss. February 17, 1812, his parents, John and Joyce (Calliham) H. Ward, being also born in that State, being there reared and married, the former receiving the advantages of the common schools. He followed the occupation of farming in his native State until his removal to Rapids Parish, La., in 1822, at which time he purchased a large plantation on Bayou Robert, which be successfully operated until his death in 1828, his wife passing from life in 1835. Henry Monroe H. Ward removed to Louisiana with his parents when a lad, and attended the common schools of this State, and as be was of a rather studious disposition, and possessed a desire to learn, he made fair progress in his studies, and upon starting out in life for himself was an intelligent and well informed young man. He was an overseer from the time he was grown until 1841, at which time he purchased the plantation on which he is now residing, and has since devoted his time to its successful conduct.

In November, 1848, he was married to Miss Laura M. Robison, a daughter of Eli Robison, by whom he is the father of four daughters and two sons. Mr. Harvard is one of the oldest and best known citizens of Avoyelles Parish, and is one of the few that has seen the country in its development. In his declining years he wears the laurels of an upright, honest life, and has the respect, and esteem of all with whom he has come in contact. He has always refused to accept any position of trust, although he has many times been solicited to accept the nomination for representative to the Legislature and other positions. He has been content, to do good in his own way, and all is said when (be statement is made that his life has been useful and well spent.

J. A. Hollinsbead, M. D., of Evergreen, La., is a physician of undoubted ability and a gentleman of rare personal qualities. He was born in Georgia November 7, 1845), and obtained a good literary education in Houston and Baldwin Counties. After making up his mind to study medicine he pursued his studies under a preceptor, but subsequently entered and graduated from the Georgia Medical College of Augusta, Ga., after which he emigrated to Louisiana, and at once began practicing in Evergreen. Owing to the able and efficient manner in which he ha managed the eases that have come under his care he has built, up a very large and well paying practice, and being a man of large perceptive faculties and manliness of demeanor, he has won, not only the esteem, but the admiration of all who know him. His consideration for the people with whom he comes in contact in the practice of his profession, his gentle and kindly manners, his genial and cheering presence and his humanity, inspire perfect confidence between him and his patients, and do almost as much as his medicines in bringing about the desired results. After a breezy and spirited conversation with the Doctor one always comes away refreshed, for his views on all matters are original and shrewd, and although he is not of a disputatious disposition be expresses his opinions fearlessly on all matters, and his logic is oft times unanswerable.

He is not only held in high repute as a physician, but he has a host of warm personal friends who predict for him a brilliant future. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity. He is unmarried. David C. Howard, planter, Moreanville, La. In Adams County, Miss., in 1837, there was born to the union of James B. and Joyce (Holmes) Howard, a son, whom we will now take as the subject of this sketch. His parents were both natives of Mississippi, and in 1838 they moved from that State to Avoyelles Parish, La., where the father purchased a tract of land near where Hamburg is now situated. He was a planter during his whole life, and was a man of considerable prominence in the parish, having been a Whig candidate for both houses of the Legislature. He was also for a number of years, president of the police jury, and held the office of magistrate for many years. His death occurred in 1860, The mother was a member of the Methodist Church, and died near Natchez in 1858. David C. Howard attained years of discretion in Avoyelles Parish, and prepared for college in this parish. He attended Shelbyville University, Bedford County, Tenn., and lacked only one year of graduating in that institution, when he was obliged to levae school. In 1800 he was married to Miss A. M. Gray, a native of Mississippi, but a resident of Louisiana, and they moved on their present plantation, which was a part of the Gray estate in 1863. In the beginning of 1863 Mr. Howard enlisted in Company B. Eighth Louisiana Regiment Infantry, and served during the remainder of the war. His command was disbanded at Natchitoches. Mr. Howard is not active in politics though a well-informed man on political affairs. To his marriage were born four children: W. K.; C. H., Aloysia and Joyce.

Hon. Daniel Bester Hudson, general merchant, Eola, La. Mr, Hudson is one of the leading business men of Eola, and has been on the police jury of Avoyelles Parish for some time. He was born in Lowndes County, Miss., March 2. 1842, and was reared and educated in his native State. In 1.86! he enlisted in Company A, Thirteenth Mississippi Infantry, and was in Gen. Lee's army, serving until the surrender. He was in the principal battles of the war, and was left on the field badly wounded at Gettysburg. He finally recovered, and rejoined his command the next spring, remaining with Gen. Lee until the close of the war. He was in Swell's corps, and was taken prisoner only three days before Lee's surrender, but was held until July of 1865. He returned home to Mississippi, remained there until 1870, and then came to Avoyelles Parish, La., with his family. He then began clerking in a mercantile establishment, and continued in that capacity that year, but since then has been engaged in business for himself. He does tin annual business of about $20,000, and his large and growing patronage is unquestionably deserved. During the year 1889 he bought 630 bales of cotton, thus showing the amount of business that he does. He was elected to the Legislature from Avoyelles Parish from 1884 to ISSS, was appointed on the police jury recently, by the governor of the State, and is an active participant in all parish affairs. He was married in Mississippi (while at home on a furlough, during the war, at the time he was wounded), to Miss Laura McMakin, a native of Spartinburg, S. C., and the fruits of this union were fourteen children, seven now living: Mrs. M. H. Spilker, Virginia, George, Robert, Bessie, Josie and Julia.

Mr. Hudson has been postmaster at Eola for several years, and is a man of judgment and sound practical sense. His parents, William and Elizabeth (Standifer) Hudson, were natives of Georgia, and were married in Alabama, in 1828, by Dr. Daniel P. Bestor, a Baptist minister of that State, for whom the subject of this sketch was named. The father was a planter, and died in Mississippi in 1802. tit the age of sixty-two years. He was a member of the Baptist Church, as was also the mother, who died in 1SS6, at the age of eighty-two years. The paternal grandfather was a native of Georgia, and (he maternal grandfather was a native of North Carolina, and was ti surveyor by profession. Daniel B. Hudson is one of the prominent names that make up the strength of the mercantile trade, and he is not- only a gentleman of education and learning, but has high social qualities. He is a leader in politics in his locality. Hon. A. B. Irion, one of the representative men of the parish, and a prominent attorney, was born in Avoyelles Parish, La., on February 7, 1833, and comes of an old and honored family. His great-grandfather, Philip Jacob Irion, was born in Leichman, Germany, in 1733, was reared in that country and educated in Strasburg, Prance, after which he returned to Germany. in 1751 he was commissioned secretary of commerce, by Charles Frederic, prince of Baden, and after having remained in the service of the Government a number of years, he came to America, in order, quoting his own words,  To seek a country where there was greater freedom of thought, and action (ban in Germany." Having previously resided a short time in both Holland and England, neither of which met his views of free government, he came to America and located in Culpepper County, Va., where he was married to Miss Sarah Poindexter, on August 12, 1765.

She was of one of the most prominent families in the State, and her death occurred on October 12, 17514. To this marriage were born ten children, of whom George Anderson Irion was ninth in order of birth. the latter was born on August 12, , and was reared and educated in the Old Dominion. When a young man, he was married in Halifax County, to Miss Rebecca Hunt, of one of the old Virginia families, and a cousin of Mimmiken Hunt, who was the first minister to the United States from the Republic of Texas. Subject's Grandfather Irion was a major in the War of 1812, and after that time he removed to Williamson County, Tenn., thence to Woodville, Miss., and subsequently to Avoyelles Parish, being one of its pioneer settlers. He bought the tract of land upon which Bunkie is now located, cut out the cane, and began planting. He died on his plantation on December 16, 1849, having three children, of whom Robert R. Irion (subject's father) was second in order of birth. Robert R. Irion was born in Halifax County, Va., on August 22, 1808, and removed to Louisiana with his father, but received his education in the common schools of Tennessee and Mississippi. On January 6, 1831, he was married to Miss Anne B. Audebert, a native of Mississippi and of French extraction. Mr. Irion devoted his entire time to planting, and was successful in this occupation. The Irion family has always been of Baptist persuasion. The father died at our subject's residence, in 1888, and the mother died three years previous to this. A. B. Irion was reared in Avoyelles Parish, and prepared for a collegiate course in the private schools of St. Landry Parish, subsequently graduating from the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, in the class of 1855. Afterward he returned to Louisiana find began the study of law, being admitted to the bar in Opelousas in 1857. He then located at Marksville, and there began practicing.

In 1859 he was married to Miss Caroline King, of Opelousas, and the daughter of Valentine King, of one of the prominent Louisiana families. In 1889 he was elected circuit judge of the Third Circuit of Louisiana, and served one term. In 1884 he was elected to Congress, from the Sixth Congressional District, and served in that capacity for one term. Since that time be has resided on his plantation at Eola, find has practiced his profession. Mr. Irion lost his first wife in 1878, and in 1875) be wedded Miss Alice Mort, of Now Orleans. He has seven living children by his first wife and one by his second. Mr. Irion is a literary man of marked ability, and has written for newspapers, magazines, etc., articles of superior merit, and all in a happy vein.

Eloi Joffrion, planter, Mansura, La. Mr. Joffrion is one of the largest and most successful cotton planters of Avoyelles Parish, and as a native born resident of this parish he is well and favoraifly known over the length and breadth of it. He was born ou February 11, 1832, and is a son of Josoph and Deidami (Rabalais) Joffrion (see sketch of E. J. Joffrion]. Eloi Joffrion was reared and partially educated in Louisiana, after which he took a two years' course in Centre College, Ky., and after finishing his education engaged in plant ing. In 1853 ho was united in marriage to Miss Cleophine Ganthier, daughter of Leon and Eulalie (Lemoine) Ganthier, both of whom were born in Louisiana. Mr. Ganthier was a planter by occupation. Mrs. Joffrion lived only eighteen months after marriage, and left no issue. In 1857 Mr. Joffrion married Miss Desdemona Fields, daughter of William M. and Ann (Thorn) Fields, natives of Kentucky and England, respectively. Mr. Fields was reared and educated in Boyle County, Ky., and was a merchant of Danville. His grandfather was one of the pioneer settlers of the Blue Grass State. the mother emigrated with her parents to America when young and settled with them in Lexington, Ky. Both are deceased. in 1802 Mr. Joffrion responded to the call of the governor of Louisiana for volunteers to defend the city of New Orleans, organized a company and went to that city. After the fall of New Orleans the company was disbanded and Mr. Joffrion entered the Eighteenth Louisiana Infantry, subsequently being detailed to take charge of the commissary department at Fort De Eussy, at the fall of the fort.

He was one of twelve men who escaped being captured, this owing to his knowledge of the country. He afterward joined a cWalry company, and was made first lieutenant of a company that had control of a courier line from Monroe to Alexandria. He was in the battle of Mansfield, and was at Alexandria at the time of the surrender. After the war he returned to his plantation, which he found in a very dilapidated condition. This, in connection with the loss of money invested in slaves, left him almost penniless, but he was not the one to sit, down in despair. He was of a decided character, energetic, and one of these thoroughgoing business men who make a success of whatever they undertake. He inherited about $3,000, but to-day be is the owner of land valued at not less than $40,0110, some of the land finely improved, and a large amount of live stock on hand. In 1859 Mr. Joffrion was the Democratic candidate for sheriff of Avoyelles Parish, and he and his opponent, received the same number of votes, necessitating another election, which resulted in the election of his opponent by one vote. Mr. Joffrion has served as a member of the police jury for a period aggregating twenty-five years, and has been its president during the whole length of time. To his marriage have been born five children: Bennett Barton, Wilber Fields, Joseph William Eloi, Lola Grace and Winnie Pearl.

E. J. Joffrion was born in Mansura, Avoyelles Parish, La., on February 7, 1838. His father, Joseph Joffrion was born in Louisiana in 1802, and died on July 3, 1872, his mother, Deidami Rabalais, born also in Louisiana in 1810, died August 28, 1868; both were of French descent, their ancestors being among the first settlers of the parish of Avoyelles. Joseph Rabalais, his great-grandfather, was the first White settler, reaching the prairie hills of Avoyelles in a dugout or pirogue, from the parish of Point Coupee. Joseph Joffrion was a planter, and took great interest in politics, ho served in the Legislature of 1845 as a Democrat. The early life of this subject was spent in Mansura, where he attended private and public schools. In 1851 be entered the University of St. Louis, Missouri, and remained there until .1855. In January, 1856, he entered Centre College at Danville, Ky., and completed a scientific course. On September 24, 1857, he was married to Sue K. Fields, daughter of William M. Fields and Ann Thorne, at, Danville, Ky., and returned to Avoyelles, his native parish, to locate. Prior to, and during part of the late war he engaged in teaching schools.

He served in the army west of the Mississippi River. After the dose of the war he began the study of law, and in May, 1868, was admitted to the bar, receiving his diploma from the Supreme Court, of Louisiana. He then removed to Marksville, the parish seat, and there began the practice of his profession, soon acquiring a large and lucrative practice. He is a very successful criminal lawyer. By his profession he has acquired considerable property, his home is spacious and comfortable, his wife who has a great, fondness for flowers, has ornamented the home surroundings. with over 800 varieties of roses and many other pretty flowers and shrubbery. Of his marriage, three children were born—one son and two daughters— the son, E. Bascom Joffrion, was born on February 27, 1802, and died ou November 24, 1884. Both daughters are married. Annie L. is the wife of Clifton Cannon, and Desdemona F. is the wife of C. Uncus Lafargue. the political life of Mr. Joffrion commenced soon after the war closed. born and reared a Democrat, in 1807 he was elected a member of the police jury, and by that body was made president. During the existence of the political turmoil which followed in Louisiana, he battled faithfully for his party. In 1879 he was elected a delegate to the Constitutional Convention, and helped frame the present constitution of Louisiana. In 1880 he was elected to the Legislature and served until 1884. In 1880 he was elected to the State Senate, serving until 1887.

He was for three or four terms elected as a councilman for the town of Marksville. He is now president of the school board of Avoyelles. Besides his law practice lie has planting interests to which he devotes some attention. the gun and rod are his fWorite amusements. Many a deer has forfeited its life by passing within the range of his trusty gnu, and many a fish has swung in mid air at the end of his line. Mr. Joffrion is well known in his State, and wields a strong influence far beyond the borders of his own parish, and is looked upon as one of the leading politicians in this section of the country, and, if he accepts it, will no doubt be made the recipient of future honors in the State.

J. T. Johnson. Not without, justice is Mr. Johnson conceded to hold a representative position among the prominent and successful merchants of Avoyelles Parish. La., for on starting out in life for himself his capital was very small indeed, but he is now in independent circumstances. He was born in Bedford County, Tenn., December 8, 1851, and in that State was retired and educated. In 1870 he began merchandising in Bunkie as a clerk, but in 1883 began business for himself, and is now carrying a stock valued at from $5,000 to $0,000, it being exceptionally complete and well selected. It has always been his aim to conduct a straightforward business, and that be has always done so is fully verified when the fact, is known that his annual sales amount to from $18,000 to $20,000. He was married in 1881 to Miss Mary Tanner, a daughter of Edward Tanner, and socially is a member of Lodge No. 189 of the A. F. & A. M. of Evergreen. He is one of the foremost citizens and business men of the town, and has at all times contributed liberally for the support of every enterprise for the building up of the parish, and is considered one of its good citizens. He is a son of James and Sallie (Davidson) Johnson, both of whom were Tennesseans, and in that State the father was called from the scene of his earthly labors in 1863, his widow still surviving him and residing in her native State.

H. C. Kemper, planter, Evergreen, La. Mr. Kemper was born in the Blue-Grass regions of Kentucky on December 1831, and is a son of Rev. Burdette and Jemima (Thompson) Kemper, natives also of Kentucky. The father was a Baptist minister of considerable prominence. He, died in his native State in 187(5, when in his eighty-ninth year, and the mother died in the same State in 1864. The paternal grandfather. John Kemper, was a native of the Old Dominion and of German descent. the maternal grandfather, James Thompson, was born in Edinburg, Scotland, but came to this country at, an early date. He was sent by the governor of Virginia to survey and locate lands in Kentucky. H. C. Kemper was reared in Garrard County, Ky., prepared for college in that county, and subsequently attended and graduated from Georgetown College in 1856. The following year he came to Evergreen, La., to take charge as principal of Evergreen Home institute, and the school flourished and grew under his management. He was married in 1858 to Miss. Virginia A. Pearce, daughter of A. G. Pearce, a native of Rapides Parish, La. Mr. Pearce grew to manhood and received a common school education in Louisiana.

Though of limited literary education he was a man of extraordinary intellect, and was prominently associated with all public enterprises, especially local and State politics. He had accumulated a large estate at the time of his death in 1863, when but forty-six years of age, and was especially prominent in educational matters, having been one of the founders and largest stockholders in Evergreen Home Institute. He was a respected and esteemed citizen, and at the time of his death was without an enemy. After his marriage Mr. Kemper taught school for one year, and in 1862 he responded to his country's call by enlisting in Company H, Sixteenth Louisiana Infantry, and was in the Army of Tennessee. He participated in the battles of Shiloh and Perryville, and served until 1863, when his father-in-law having died, be returned home to take charge of the interests there. Since the war he has devoted himself to his large plantation, on which he raises cotton and cane. He is a very prosperous planter.

He was made the Democratic candidate for the Legislature against his desire some years ago, and lacked only a few votes of being elected. Mr. Kemper has ever since been solicited to accept the nomination of State Senator, but has preferred living a more retired life, devoting himself to his home interests and to the advancement of the locality. He is at present, a member of the police jury or Ward No. 9. Mr. Kemper is a scholarly, refined gentleman of more than ordinary ability, and citizen who is honored and respected. To his marriage have been born two daughters: Sidney J. (wife of Dr. P. B. Wright, of Evergreen), and Annie (wife of W. U. Perkins, of Texas. Mr. Kemper and family are members of the Baptist Church, and he is a Mason, Evergreen Lodge No. 189, Evergreen Chapter No. 41, and has been master several times. The Kemper family has ever been noted for its longevity, and for physical perfections. One of Mr. Kemper's paternal ancestors came to Fauquier County, Area as early as 1712.

A. D. Lafargue was born in the parish of Natchitoches, La., May 11, 1845, but was reared in Avoyelles Parish, his education being received in Baton Rouge Collegiate Institute, being an attendant of this institution when the war opened, and immediately cast his books aside to don his suit of gray, shouldered his musket, and served for two and one half years under Gen. Kirby Smith, the most of his service being confined to the west side of the Mississippi River. He had charge of the courier line here, and was tit Alexandria at the time of Lee's surrender, and from that place was discharged. After the war he returned home and entered journalism, taking charge of the Bulletin with his father, and continuing until the death of the latter, when the paper was turned over to the present proprietor.

Mr. Lafargue has devoted his attention exclusively to farming since that time, having previously managed his plantation in connection with his paper for years. In 1870 he was elected to represent this parish in the State Legislature, but was counted out by the Wells Returning Board, but at the succeeding election he was once more elected, and by such a strong majority that it was impossible for him to be counted out as before. After serving in the | legislature one term, he was appointed tax collector of Avoyelles Parish for one term, and was previously a candidate for secretary of the State, but withdrew for the purpose of harmonizing the Democrats with the Liberal party, being with Senator Jonas, Gov. McEnery, E. John Ellis and Col. Waggaman. The fusion party was successful, and John McEnery was elected, but afterward ousted from office by Grant and his soldiers. Mr. Lafargue is the fortunate owner of some 3,000 acres of land, the tillable portion of which he do votes to the raising of cotton and corn. He also owns some valuable town property in Marksville, among which is a handsome residence. He was elected to take charge of the Farmers' Union paper for the State August, 1890, and when everything is in good working order he will take charge of the work at Alexandria. At the ago of twenty-three years he was married to Miss Mary Botts, in Avoyelles Parish, who died leaving three children: Uncas, Oneida and Winonga. His second union was to Miss Florence Waddill. by whom he also has three children: Louise, Zepherine find Douglas. Mr. Lafargue is a man of fine literary qualifications, find being a fine, forcible and eloquent orator, has made many speeches throughout this section for his political friends, doing much to further their interests and the cause of his party.

Adolphe J. Lafargue is an able attorney at law of Marksville, La., and is also the editor of the Marksville Bulletin, one of the breezy newspapers of Avoyelles Parish. He was born here, October 3, 1855, to Prof. Adolphe Lafargue, who was born in France, and came to the land of the free and the home of the bride when eighteen years of age; tor some time followed the calling of schoolteacher in Natchitoches Parish, where he was afterward married to Miss Zepherine M. Zorich, a member of the influential family of Rachel. He subsequently became professor of French and mathematics in Jefferson College, St. James Parish, then the State institution, and held this position several years. After returning and spending a short time in Natchitoches, he came to Marksville, where he once more engaged in " teaching the young ideas how to shoot. Later he became superintendent of public, instruction of Avoyelles Parish, his appointment to this office being a tribute to his ability as an educator. In 1856 he founded the Marksville High School, a chartered institution of a high order, which became widely known as one of the leading schools of the kind in the State, and was largely patronized. In 1SO0 Mr. Lafargue became the editor and proprietor of the Pelican, which afterward became the Marksville Villager and this he continued to publish with marked ability until 1868. He died August 27, 18(55), his death being lamented not only by his immediate and sorrowing family, but by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. His father was Arnaud Lafargue, who was born in Orthez, France, October 30, 1775, and at the age of fifty years was married to Miss Marie Heuga, having previously been in the military service of France for twenty-five years, being in the campaigns in Italy in 1796-97, Germany in 1809, Russia in 1812, Prussia and Bohemia in 1813, and in 1814 and 1815 was in France and Belgium under Napoleon Bonaparte.

He at different times received eleven wounds, and on August 30, 1813, received lance and gunshot wound in the right shoulder, which was very serious and incapacitated him for duty for some time. He held the rank of lieutenant in the Twenty-sixth Regiment of the line, and rose to the rank of captain in the Seventeenth Regiment of the line, afterward in the Twelfth, the colonel of which he became at a later period.

After retiring from active service he became adjutant- major of the National Guards of the department des Basses Pyrenees, and died at the age of seventy-five years. Adolphe J. Lafargue received his education in Jefferson Literary College of St. James Parish, La. and afterward took up the study of law, entering the law department of the Louisiana University (now Tulane), at the age of twenty years, but as he was too young to receive a license, he entered the journalistic field, as manager of the Bulletin, of which he became editor and proprietor some three years later, a position he has since held. He has taken a prominent part in the different enterprises which have been set on foot in this parish, and in 1884 represented Avoyelles Parish at the World's Exposition, being appointed tax assessor of the parish the same year. At the end of two years be was appointed clerk of the district court, and served with distinction until May, 1888, when be began the practice of the law in partnership with Judge A. B. Irion, with whom he is still associated. For the past three years he has been vice-president of Louisiana Press Association, having been one of the organizers of the same.

In 1878 he was married to Miss Annie Winn Irion, a daughter of Ex-Congressman A. B. Irion of this parish. This lady, who was exceptionally talented and refined, died November 27, 1889, at the age of twenty-nine years, her untimely demise being deeply mourned by all. Four children were born to them, four sons: Walter, Edwin Louis, Alvan Henry and Sidney Enstis. In 1884 Mr. Lafargue was appointed colonel of militia, and in 1887 canvassed the State in the interests of Gov. McEnery, of whom he is a personal and political friend, in company with Senator Eustis, Ex-Senator Jonas and others. He has bad considerable experience as a public speaker. He delivered an address at the meeting of the National Press Association, on "The Relations of the Press to the Country and especially to the south," which was highly commended. He also took a leading part in the discussions on "Sectionalism," at the meeting of the same association the succeeding year at San Antonio, Tex. He delivered addresses before the Louisiana Press Association on The Duties and Abuses of Journalism and The State and the Press, and other subjects, which were also very favorably received. Mr. Lafargue is a young attorney of undoubted ability, find as a forcible and convincing speaker has especially distinguished himself. In his journalistic work he is noted for his fearless denunciation of dishonest measures, and for his upholding of the right at all times, the strength of logic which he brings to bear being forcible and unanswerable.

T. Lemoine, general merchant, Cottonport, La. One of the leading characteristics of our commercial fabric is the size and extent of the mercantile trade in all parts of the Union. A vast capital is invested in this important industry, and thousands upon thousands of persons are furnished remunerative employment. Among the leading establishments of Cottonport, La., none are more deserving of favorable mention than that conducted by Mr. T. Lemoine. This gentleman was born in Avoyelles Parish in 1849, and is a son of Z. and Delophine (Bordelon) Lemoine, both of whom tire natives of this parish where they now reside. The father is a successful planter. T. Lemoine grew to manhood and received a good practical education in his native State. At the age of twenty-one be begin business at Cottonport as a dealer in general merchandise on a capital of $1,500, and now carries a stock of goods valued at $15,000, with annual sales aggregating from $05,000 to $70,000.

He has a two story store, 40x60 feet, and a good warehouse. He buys a great deal of cotton. He is one of the leading, if not the leading merchant of Avoyelles Parish, and is also the owner of a plantation consisting of 1,500 acres. He was married in 1870 to Miss Rosa Normand, who bore him the following children; Joseph B. (a student at Jefferson College), Isabella, Normand, Louis, Hampton, Corrine, Lola, Ida and Omitha. Three children died young. Mr. Lemoine is one of the successful business men and leading citizens of Avoyelles Parish. He superintends every detail in his establishment and is held in high esteem in the community.

M. R. Marshall is one of Avoyelles Parish's successful planters, but was born in Fredericksburg, Va., May 25), 1825, to Horace and Elizabeth (Hieskell) Marshall, they being also natives of the Old Dominion. The father was a farmer and merchant, by occupation, and for many years was one of the most prominent citizens of Spotsylvania County. In 1833, while traveling abroad, he was lost on the Mediterranean Sea. His wife died in 1828 at the age of forty-one years. M. E. Marshall spent the greater part of his boyhood days in Virginia, but his eructation was obtained in the city of Brotherly Love. For a number of years after leaving school Mr. Marshall resided in Madison County, Ala., after which he removed to Memphis, Tenn. where he dealt in cotton until the Rebellion opened, when he enlisted in the One Hundred and Fifty-fourth Tennessee Infantry, and was on active duty until after the battle of Shiloh, when he received his discharge, after which he immediately joined the Tennessee Heavy Artillery tit Vicksburg. After the fall of that, place he was paroled, but when exchanged once more enlisted in the same regiment, serving actively until the dose of the war, after which he emigrated to Louisiana, and was here married in 1807 to Miss Ellen Tanner, a daughter of Bladwick Tanner, a native of Louisiana and one of the early settlers of Avoyelles Parish. After becoming the mother of one daughter Mrs. Marshall died in 1872, and after remaining a widower for four years Mr. Marshall married Alice, daughter of John A. and Mary C. (Cocke) Glaize, both parents being North Carolinians. By his second marriage Mr. Marshall has two children. He belongs to one of the F. F. V.'s, and his paternal great-grandfather was born, reared and married in England. On coming to the United States he was accompanied by his brother John, who was the father of Chief Justice Marshall. The paternal great-grandparents were born in Germany.

George L. Mayer, druggist and merchant, Marksville, La. This prominent business man was born in New Orleans, August 14, 1845), shortly after the arrival of his parents from France, and was the son of Eugene and Anna (Barbin) Mayer, both natives of Paris, born in 1824 and 1827, respectively.

The father was reared and received a collegiate education in his native city. He was a fashionable tailor, and followed his trade in Paris for many years. Grandfather Mayer was born in Nancy, France. On account of ill health, the hither emigrated to New Orleans in 1845), followed his trade there until 1850, and then removed to Marksville, where he was actively engaged in business up to the time of his death, from yellow fever, in 1855, the maternal grandmother, father and uncle all dying of this fatal scourge. George L. Mayer prepared for college at Lafargue High School, and immediately after the war he entered the St. Louis University, at St. Louis, Mo., where he remained until July, 1807. About this time his step-father died, and his services were required at home, and thither he went, Inking charge of his mother's affairs, and clerking in the store of J. A. Dalsut. tit Marksville. Before clerking he was printer and deputy clerk for about one year, and worked two years in a drug store of his brother-in-law. In January, 1874, Mr. Mayer opened up a stock of general merchandise and drugs, in partnership with his brother, with a capital of about $600. On the dissolution of the firm, in 1882. they showed au earning of nearly $100,000. Mr. Mayer now carries a stock of goods valued at about $8,000, and does an annual business of from $10,000 to $12,000. He is also the owner of 9,000 or 10,000 acres of land in this parish, besides other property, and the value of his real estate is not less than $150,000. in 1871 Mr. Mayer was wedded to Miss Cleophine Frank, daughter of Adolph and Caroline (Bonette) Frank, natives of Germany and Louisiana, respectively. The father is now living in Marksville, but the mother is deceased.

Mr. Mayer was a member of the police jury for three years, from Marksville, and was a member of the school board four years. For many years he has been a member of the town council. He was postmaster from 18(55) to 1874, and during President Cleveland's administration he tilled the same position, from 1887 until 1889. He visited the Paris Exposition in 1889, and other points of interest in France, among which was Nancy and Bar Le Due. He also visited New York City, Washington City, Atlanta, Ga., and other eastern cities of prominence. Mr. Mayer is possessed of a large business experience, and occupies a prominent position in commercial circles. His social is not less marked than his business prominence. He has a typical home in Marksville, which is adorned with all that taste can suggest or money purchase, in which he and family live in the lordly style of the opulent southerner. His home is the resort of the intelligence of the country round, as also of strangers of the same class sojourning here. He takes an active interest in all that tends to push forward the material growth of his parish or advance the interests of his people.

Miss Anna E. Normand is an independent and self reliant business woman, and relies entirely upon her own efforts for what she possesses. Her present position in life has been accomplished by individual effort, and by constant, earnest industry, her career in this respect being one well worth}' of imitation. She was born in Marksville, La., to L. P. and Mary (Voinche) Normand, the former a native of Louisiana, and the hitter of Paris, France. Mr. Normand was a planter by occupation, and has at different times been parish judge, find clerk of the district court. He is still living, but his wife passed to her long home in August, 1890. The maternal grandfather of Miss Normand was August Voinche, who was the wealthiest man in Avoyelles Parish before the Rebellion. Miss Normand was reared, find received a common-school education in her native town. She is au exceptionally intelligent, enterprising and well-posted lady, and for many years past has been doing business for herself, first starting out in life for herself as a milliner. Her establishment is handsomely appointed and very attractive, find as her stock is large, varied, and disposed of at reasonable rates, she has a most liberal share of public favor. In connection with this she is managing a hotel, and as she at. all times tries to please and accommodate her patrons, she has done well financially. She is a woman of marked intelligence, and has that innate air of high breeding which always indicates the true gentle woman.

Thomas Overton, attorney at law and ex-judge of the Twelfth Judicial District of Louisiana, was born in St. Landry Parish, La., in 183(5. He is descended from a family which has occupied a prominent place in the history of this country from the early days of the republic. His grandfather served with distinction under Gen. Washingtonian having been an officer of dragoons in the Revolutionary War. He participated in many of the trying scenes of that momentous epoch, and among others was in the battle of Yorktown, where he maintained his reputation as a brave and gallant officer. The father of the subject of this sketch was Judge John H. Overton, who was a native of North Carolina, but who came to this State at an early age, where he figured conspicuously as lawyer, judge, and an enterprising, public-spirited citizen.

Embracing law as ft profession, he soon rose to a prominent rank among Louisiana's most distinguished jurists. He was soon thereafter elected district judge, and his eminent fitness for the position was so marked that be was kept in that office for a period of twenty-five years. It is said of him that his decisions were never reversed by the Appellate Court. Judge Overton took a deep interest in till public enterprises, and was otio of the chief projectors of the Southern Pacific Railroad, and was its first president. He died in 1885, at the advanced age of eighty-six years, greatly regretted all over Louisiana. Judge Thomas Overton, after ..acquiring the rudiments of an education in this State, was sent to the University of Virginia, where he completed his studies. Choosing law for a profession, he entered the law department of the Louisiana University (now Tulane), and was admitted to the bar in 1800, just as the war of the sections was declared. Filled with patriotic ardor, he accepted from the governor of Louisiana a commission as captain of a company of infantry in the State troops. He served only eight mouths in that capacity, when he resigned to accept a commission from Jefferson Davis in the regular Confederate Army, and was transferred to the staff of Gen. D. H. Hill, of the Army of the Potomac. He afterward served on the staffs of Gen. Wharton and Gen. Gregg, of the Trans-Mississippi Department.

After the war closed ho settled in Avoyelles Parish, where he began the practice of his profession, and where, in 1809, he was married to Miss Laura Waddill, a lady of talent and refinement, and eldest daughter of the late John P. Waddill, a prominent lawyer of this section in his day. Judge Overton rose rapidly to distinction at the bar by his talents and eloquence, winning a well earned reputation as a learned find able attorney. He filled with great credit the responsible position of district attorney of the Seventh Judicial District, which was then composed of the parishes of Avoyelles, Pointe Coupee and West Feliciana. He was remarkably successful in his prosecutions. In 1884 he was elected judge of the Twelfth Judicial District of Louisiana, comprising the parishes of Avoyelles, Rapids and Grant. He served to 1888, and was noted for his uprightness and impartiality, qualities so desirable in one who wears the ermine. His decisions were rendered after (he most thorough and critical examination of the matters in contention, and were prepared with great care, showing depth of thought and sound legal reasoning. He has resumed the practice of the law, and enjoys to a great degree the esteem and confidence of his fellow-men. The future has yet in store for him a career of continual usefulness and honor before he reaches the fullness of years.

Dr. C. D. Owens, Eola, La. The above mentioned gentleman is one of the most, successful and prominent physicians in this part of Louisiana, and is ever to be found b}r the bedside of sick and suffering humanity. He was originally from the Palmetto State, his birth occurring in Charleston on October 20, 1845, and is a son of A. and Eliza M. (Hoffatt) Owens the former a native of Ireland, and the mother of South Carolina, whither the father removed when a young man.

Dr. C. D. Owens, received his literary education at, Georgetown College, Columbia, and in 1862 he graduated from Charleston Medical College. Immediately afterward he entered the Confederate service, was assigned to the Army of Northern Virginia, as assistant surgeon, and soon after the second battle of Manassas, he was promoted to surgeon, serving with distinction in Stewart's division until cessation of hostilities. After this he located in St. Louis, Mo., practiced his profession there until 1877 and then removed to Avoyelles Parish, La., locating at Holmesville, where he has practiced successfully ever since. Dr. Owens was elected president of the State Medical Society in 1888, and is recognized as the most learned and skilled physician in this part of the State. As a leading exponent of general surgery, Dr. Owens is worthy of mention in a review Of our foremost, professional men, and he has obtained a liberal share of public fWor, the best proof of his skill and care. The Doctor was married in 1878, to Miss Alice B. Winn, daughter of Dr. William A. Winn, a leading physician at the time of his death, which occurred in 1877. He was a native, of Virginia. Mrs. Owens died in 1879 leaving one child, a son, Samuel Logan.

F. VI. PWey, of Hamburg, La., was born in Switzerland County, Ind., in 1840, am! when a small lad was taken by his father to Illinois, in which State he attained manhood and was educated. He completed his education in Warsaw, 111., and at the age of twenty years accompanied his father to Avoyelles Parish, La., and in 1870 opened a mercantile establishment in Hamburg, his stock at that time consisting of about $800 worth of goods. He now carries $10,000 worth of stock find has a very flourishing trade, and in addition to this prosperous establishment is the owner of 1,1500 acres of land of which about 900 acres are under cultivation, yielding from 400 to 500 bales of cotton annually. His marriage, which took place in 1870, was to Miss Octavia Convillion, a daughter of  Zelian Convillion. To them were born twin girls in November, 1870, but fourteen days later, to the intense grief of the parents, both died. He and his wife have reared five orphan children to honorable manhood and womanhood. He is one of the truly representative men of the parish, and the property which he now has has been earned by his own earnest find determined endeavors. Personally and in every private relation, and duty of life, to much can not be said in his praise, for he is liberal, generous and high-minded, and is the son of true honor. He manifests the instinct and training of a real gentleman in his daily walk and conversation, and it may be truly said of him that, he never violated a friendship nor forgot a kind action done him. In this latter regard he is eminently deserving of mention as above the verge of mankind, and much could be said in his praise were he not one of these that would that " the left hand should not know what the right hand doeth." His parents, John and Myria (Gibbs) Pavey, were born in Kentucky and Indiana, respectively, their marriage taking place in the mother's native State. After their removal to Warsaw, 111., Mr. Pavey engaged in merchandising. The subject of this sketch inherits French and English blood from his parents.

Dr. A. G. Pearce, physician and surgeon, Evergreen. La. A young but. very successful practitioner of Evergreen is Dr. Pearce, who was born in that town in 1857, and who has the confidence of the many among whom his extensive practice leads him. His parents, W.. O. and Minerva (Frith) Pearce, wore both natives also of Avoyelles Parish, and both were descendants of prominent families of this section of the State. The father was attending college at Georgetown, Ky., at the breaking out, of the war, and threw aside his books to join the Confederate Army. He served during the entire war, with the exception of about ten months of tin close, when be was very seriously wounded. He has been a planter all his life and is a representative citizen of his community, residing at Cheneyville, La. The mother died in 1877. Dr. A. G. Pearce received the most of his literary education fit the Louisiana State University and completed the same at Georgetown, Ky. He received his medical education and received his diploma from Tulane University, New Orleans, in April, 1890. On June 25 of the same year he was married to Miss Mary H. Winn, daughter of Dr. William H. Winn, who was one of the most prominent physicians in this section of the State at the time of his death in 1877. Dr. Pearce is secretary of the board of trustees of Evergreen Home Institute. He is a young man of exemplary habits and has the utmost respect of these with whom be has been reared. He is an exception of the old proverb, " A prophet is not without honor, save in his own country." The Doctor has a bright future before him.

Hon. S. S. Pearce, planter, Evergreen, La. Mr. Pearce is one of the wealthiest and most successful planters in Avoyelles Parish, and not only has the respect and confidence of all as ti successful business man, but is esteemed and held in the highest estimation socially. His parents, Stephen and Ann G. (Tanner) Pearce, were natives of Georgia and South Carolina, respectively. The paternal grandfather was a native of Georgia, and the maternal grandfather was a native of South Carolina. S. S. Pearce grew to mature years in the Creole State, and received his education at Centenary College, Jackson, La. Although be was reared on his father's extensive plantation, be was not compelled to farm labor, owing to the numerous slaves his father always kept. At the age of eighteen years he commenced business for himself fis a planter, his father and mother both having died previous to this, and this has been his chief calling in life. He has acquired nearly all his property through his own efforts, and is a public spirited and enterprising citizen. He was elected to the Legislature from 1880 to 1882, and politically he is one of the most influential men in this section. When twenty-one years of age he was married to Miss Mary E. Bennett, who was but fifteen years of age, and they have seven living children: Sarah A. (wife of S. Tanner) Clandia F. (wife of C. W. Owen), Mansel K., Jennie, Stephen S., Addie G. and Heber L. Algernon B. died at the age of nineteen (1883), and was a promising young man. Mr. Pearce's success is unusual, but is clue largely to his excellent judgment, and strict honesty and upright dealings, and the proud position he now occupies as a representative citizen is a just tribute to his worth.

M. K. Pearce. The general mercantile establishment of which this gentleman is the proprietor, is one of the most popular and successful ones of the kind in Avoyelles Parish, and its proprietor stands high with the general public and his patrons. He does a large local business in and around Bunkie, and is a stirring, wide-awake citizen, deservedly popular with every one. He was born in this parish November 6, 1867, to S. S. and Mary E. (Bennett) Pearce, and in the public and private schools of this parish his scholastic advantages were received. He took a thorough commercial course in that department of the University of Kentucky at Lexington, and in November of 1887 received his diploma. Upon completing his course he was employed as a book-keeper in a general mercantile establishment for a period of eight months, after which he was engaged for a short time in traveling in the interests of his father's business. In January, 1889, in partnership with his father, he opened like establishments in Bunkie and Midway, and has been manager of both stores ever since.

He does a retail business of from $50,000 to $60,000 annually, a fact that speaks louder than words can do as to the success which has attended his efforts. He also has au excellent livery stable in Bunkie, which is excellently equipped with good horses and buggies, and although Mr. Pearce is quite young, he has shown that he is a good financier and possesses more than ordinary business ability. The management of affairs under his control would do credit to one of much greater experience, and although he gives the most of his attention to business matters ho often finds relief from his cares in the excitement of the chase and with his rod in the woods and streams in the vicinity. He is a young man of exemplary habits, and as a result has many warm personal friends. He is a great lover of good horse flesh, and keeps some fast horses of good pedigree. William M. Prescott, planter, Eola, La. The above mentioned gentleman is worthy to be classed among the substantial and progressive planters of Avoyelles Parish. He is a native of St. Landry Parish, La., born November 8, 1849, and is the son of Hon. William M. and Evalina (Moore) Prescott, the father a native of south Carolina and the mother of Louisiana. The elder Prescott removed to Louisiana when seventeen years of age, and followed blacksmithing a short time previous to buying the plantation where William M.. Jr., now resides.

He began improving his plantation and was one of the first members of the Legislature from St. Landry Parish. He was a member of both houses later. He died with yellow fever in December, 1854. The maternal grandfather, John Moore, was a member of Congress from Louisiana, was district judge and a very prominent man in the State. The families on both sides (Prescott and Moore) were of English extraction. Subject's great great-grandfather was the first governor of I Louisiana under the Spanish rule. William M. Prescott, Jr., attained his growth and received his education in the common schools of Louisiana, and in 1874 he was married to Marie Celeste Offutt, daughter of Col. William Offutt, who was colonel in the State Militia. Mr. Prescott began business for himself as a planter in 1874, and this has been his occupation since. He is the owner of 2,000 acres of land. 800 acres under cultivation, and is chiefly engaged in raising cotton. Mr. Prescott and the whole family are members of the Catholic Church. His seven children are named as follows: William M. (at Baton Rouge attending school). Adaline, Benjamin, Frank, John.

Walter and Elizabeth. Dr. L. Rabalais, physician and planter, Marksville, La. Marksville and vicinity have a number of physicians, among whom prominently stands Dr. L. Rabalais, a native of Avoyelles Parish, La. He was born in September, 1815, and is a son of John V. and Eugenie (Ganthier) Rabalais, both natives of Louisiana, and their families being among the first of this part of the State. The father was educated in the common schools of Louisiana, and devoted his whole life to planting, being a very extensive planter and largo slave owner before the war. He was very charitable, hospitable and a public-spirited citizen. He received his final summons in 1878, and his widow followed him in 1885. Both were members of the Catholic Church. Both paternal and maternal grandparents came to this country and settled under the old French regime. Dr. L. Rabalais was attending school at St. Joseph's College, Natchitoches Parish, at the breaking out of the war, and filled with au earnest desire to aid the southern cause, he flung aside his books, and when only seventeen years of age enlisted in Company H, Crescent Regiment, of New Orleans, as a private. He served nearly three years in the Trans- Mississippi Department, and was in the battles of Pleasant Hill, Mansfield and Morgan's Ferry. He surrendered at Natchitoches. In November, 1865, he entered Cicilian College, near Elizabethtown, Ky., and graduated from that institution in 1869.

After this he entered the Medical University at Louisville, and graduated from this in May, 1870. The same year be was married to Miss Margaret Wathen, daughter of Dr. Wathen, of Breckinridge County, Ky., a very eminent and well-known man. Since that time Dr. Rabalais has practiced his profession in Moreanville, and few men have had demonstrated to them in a more worthy manner the appreciation in which they are held than has Dr. Rabalais. Pleasant and agreeable in business affairs he is equally so in social life, and he is one whom it is a pleasure to meet. The Doctor was the first, Creole graduate of medicine in the Parish. Although not active in politics he takes go real interest in local and State affairs. He is an ardent Democrat, never having voted any other ticket. in 1871 he purchased a plantation, and erected au elegant residence on it. His plantation, consisting of 580 acres, is valued tit not less than $20,000, and this he operates himself. He and his estimable wife are members of the Catholic Church. She is a very intelligent find highly educated lady. P. Regard, merchant, Mansura, La. Merchandising is one of the most important enterprises to be entered upon, and the success of the individual thus engaged is mainly duo to his honesty, enterprise and the confidence which the public has in him. Mr. Regard is of foreign nativity, his birth having occurred in France on May II, 1838, and is a son of Germain find Celeste (Prostdame) Regard, both natives of France. the father grew to manhood and received his education in his native country. He was a planter by occupation.

He and wife both died in France, the father in 1874 and the mother in 1857. F. Regard passed his boyhood and youth and received his education in France. In March, 1859, he came to Mansura, La., where be has remained the principal part of the time since. During the war be served about six months in the State Militia. In 1800 he was married to Mrs. Zelino Escnde. daughter of F. C. Monnin, a native of France.

Mr. Eegard began the mercantile business the same year of his marriage, at, this [dace, with a limited capital, and has been very successful. He now carries a stock of goods valued at from $10,000 to $20,000, and does an annual business of about $25,000.  He is a most energetic, enterprising and thorough man of business, and is highly esteemed, being honorable and upright in all his dealings. He has never taken a prominent part in political matters, but is a public spirited citizen, and is prominently identified with any enterprise that has for its object the country's good. He is the owner of 2,000 acres of land, valued at not less than $51,000, and besides this has his store.

As a result of his marriage was the birth of eight children—five daughters and three sons—two married: Leone (wife of E. J. Beredon, of Mansura), Elize (wife of Dr. T. A. Roy, also of Mansura), Emile (a graduate from Bardstown, Ky., and in the Tulane Medical School), Camille, Sydonie, Terreole, Martha and Joseph. Mr. Eegard is educating his children in good schools, and all are Roman Catholics. He is a sound Democrat. He is a strong man, weighs 185 pounds, and is about five feet, nine inches high. He got out naturalization papers in the decade of 1860. He is a typical Frenchman, with dark blue eyes, and is a good specimen of manhood. His face is a fine one. Thomas A. Roy, M. D., Mansura, La. Dr. Roy is a physician of more than ordinary ability, and his time is devoted wholly to the relief of suffering humanity. He is a native-born resident of Mansura, La. his birth occurring on September ,22, 1800, and he is the son of Leander F. and Adaline (Cainletean) Roy, both natives of Avoyelles Parish, La. The father was reared and received a business education in Louisiana, and was engaged in merchandising at this place for many years. He served during the entire war. He was not active in political affairs. He was a member of the Catholic Church, and died in 1879. The mother is still living and is a resident of Mansura. Dr. Thomas A. Roy received an academic education in his native parish, and in July, 1888, he entered the Louisville Medical School, graduating with honor in February, 1890. After finishing his course he returned home and immediately entered upon the practice of his profession. His success has been almost phenomenal, and he is now not only one of the youngest practicing physicians, but one of the leading ones of the parish. Dr. Roy is a young man of tine intellect, as are the other members of his family. He was married in August, 1890, to Miss Elize, daughter of F. and Zeline (Monnin) Regard. Dr. Roy's maternal grandfather was a native of France, and the father of Dr. Roy was of Canadian- French descent, and his father was a native of Canada.

A. V. Saucier is the present efficient assessor of Avoyelles Parish, La., his birth occurring here in 1857. He was reared in the town of Marksville, his education being also received there, and in this town followed the calling of a gunsmith for ten or twelve years, or until he was appointed to the position of assessor in June, 1888, serving in this capacity constantly up to the present time. He was married in 1879 to Miss Helena Bronillette, of this parish, by whom he has six children: Moore, Merrick, Walton, Lorca, August and Hubert.

Mr. Saucier is a young man very popular throughout this section, for he is genial, kindly and charitable in disposition, and is strictly upright and honorable in every worthy particular. His parents, Edmond and Hermantine (Barbin) Sancier, were born in New Orleans, the father being a gunsmith by occupation. He came to Avoyelles Parish when a young man, and he and his wife became the parents of six children. The paternal grandfather was also born in the city of New Orleans, and the family are Catholics in religious belief.

G. H. Stevens is a merchant, liveryman and hotel keeper of Bunkie, La., and in the conduct of each of these enterprises he has met with well-deserved success, for he is industrious, painstaking and economical. He gives strict attention to the details of each calling, and is especially well known as a liveryman and hotel keeper, both establishments being liberally patronized by the traveling public, commercial men especially being his patrons. He was born in Connecticut in 1849 to M. W. and E. B. (Wilruot) Stevens, they being also natives of the Nutmeg State. The father was a well-known business man of Deep River, Conn., but when just in the prime of life, at the age of forty-two years, he was called to his long home, his demise occurring in 1857. His widow was sixty-seven years of age at the time of her death in 1888. G. H. Stevens was reared and received a common school education in the State of his birth, and prior to 1872 devoted his attention to his trade in Connecticut, that of a machinist, following it also in Rhode Island. In the above mentioned year, on account of poor health, he determined to try a milder climate and came to Louisiana, and for several years thereafter was engaged in the construction of railways in this State and Texas, afterward opening a stage line in Louisiana and Arkansas, which he managed for six years. He was married in 1881 to Mrs. B. H. Mershon, a daughter of R. L. Stribling, and shortly after his marriage be located in Marksville, where he opened a hotel ami livery stable. Since 1884 be has followed these callings in Bunkie. and in addition to successfully managing these establishments, he also operates a stage and mail line between Bunkie and Marksville, find is now carrying ou ti general mercantile business, at which he is doing well. He is possessed of that untiring energy, vim and business push, which is characteristic of the New Englander, and although his time is fully employed in attending to the numerous irons that he has in the fire, he is none the less painstaking in the management of each. He is in every respect self-made, and the property of which is now the owner has been obtained through his own individual efforts. E. R. Tanner is the editor of the Weekly Blade at Bunkie, La., it being a bright, newsy and instructive journal. Mr. Tanner is a native of this State, born in 1804, and is a son of E. L. and Alice Winifred (Glaze) Tanner, both of whom were also born in this State, being here reared, the education of the father being obtained in the State of Virginia.

He was a planter of considerable prominence, and was a man of sound and intelligent views. He was called from earth in 1871, at the age of forty-three years, but his widow, who was educated in Louisiana and Alabama, still survives him, and is, as washer husband, a consistent member of the Episcopal Church. In the public and private school of Avoyelles Parish, La., E. E. Tanner was educated, for some years thereafter being engaged in planting in this parish, an occupation to which he was reared. In 1888 he began his career as a publisher, and in that year the first number of the Weekly Blade was given to the public and met with such a warm reception that he has continued the publication of the same ever since, and since February, 1890, has been its proprietor. The Blade has a good circulation in three parishes, and under Mr. Tanner's able management some valuable information can always be gleaned from its columns. Mr. Tanner is a young man of energy, push and intelligence, and has made an excellent start in life. His paper is strictly moral in its tone and at all times advocates worthy causes and condemns in a fearless and forcible manner all unjust or improper measures.

Dr. Leo Chester Tarleton, Marksville, La. Dr. Tarleton's career as a practitioner and thorough student of medicine has won for him no less a reputation than has his personal character as a citizen and neighbor. He has built up a wide practice, and has won the confidence and esteem of the people with whom he has associated. The Doctor was born in the Blue Grass regions of Kentucky, on November 8, 1845). His father is Samuel Moore Tarleton, who was also born in the State of Kentucky, and resided there as a prosperous farmer until the year 1857, when he removed south, and settled in the beautiful region of Louisiana, known as the Teche Country, where the celebrated poem, Longfellow's "Evangeline." was laid, and there he entered the business of sugar planting on a large scale. He is still living on the Teche, planting and merchandising. His parents, Alfred Tarleton and Cecilia Tarleton, moved from Mary Ian! to Kentucky when they were extremely youthful, and there spent a long and prosperous life, and raised a number of sons, whose descendants are now living principally in Louisiana and Missouri. Dr. Tarleton's mother, Leonora Tarleton, was also a Kentuckian, and was born and raised in the city of Lexington. She was the mother of six children, of whom Dr. Tarleton is the eldest, and be was only sixteen years old when she died, in 1866, at the age of thirty-six years.

She and her husband were both members of the Catholic Church. Her parents were Leo Tarleton and Mary Ann Breckinridge. They formerly carried on a large mercantile business in Lexington, but in later life, after the death of his wife, he moved south, where he resided until his death in 1867. Dr. Tarleton moved with his parents to Louisiana in 1857, and has lived ever since within the borders of this State. His education was principally received at the Louisiana State University, at Baton Rouge, from where he graduated in 1873. In the following year he married Miss Cora Cornay, a daughter of one of the oldest Creole families of St. Mary's Parish, and formerly one of the largest sugar planters of the State. From this marriage only one son was born. His wife died about eighteen months after they were married. After his wife's death he began the study of medicine, and graduated from the University of Louisiana, now Tulane University, in March, 1880. Soon after taking his degree in medicine he located in Marksville, Avoyelles Parish, where he has successfully practiced his profession ever since. In 1881 he was married to Miss Henrietta Convillion, a member of one of the largest and most influential families in the parish. By this marriage they had four children, the eldest of whom are dead, and whose name was Wilfred Walter. The three others, Rosa Lula, Percival Clarence and Clysse Ursula, are aged respectively, seven years, five years and six months. Henrietta Convillion was the only living daughter of  her parents when she married. Her father was L. H. Convillion, and her mother Rosa Cailletean. L. H. Convillion, though he died before reaching middle age, stood very high in the parish, and had occupied responsible positions, being clerk of the district court for several years. His father, Hypolite Convillion, was a native of the parish of Avoyelles, and a member of one of the largest and best families of Louisiana.

The Convillions of this parish are all descendants of three brothers, who came here from Canada about the year 1795. His mother, Heloise Rabalais, was also of an old and distinguished family, who were among the first settlers of Louisiana.

Rosa Cailleteau, was a daughter of Eugene Cailletean and Irene Broutin, a native of the department of Ardennes, France, who was the only son of the Lord (Seigmen) of St. Prix, at the time of the overthrow of feudalism in France. He, the said Cailleteau, although the son of a zealous supporter of the Bourbons, was himself a Republican, and bitterly opposed Charles X. which fact forced him to seek his home in America. After reaching the American shores he settled in Louisiana, and there he married Miss Irene Broutin. Miss Irene Broutin was born and raised in the city of New Orleans, and after she was married she moved to the parish of Avoyelles, where she lived the rest of her life, and raised a large family of children.

T. H. Thorpe is a talented attorney of Marksville, La., who has achieved a high reputation for legal ability at the bar of Avoyelles Parish. He was born in Louisville, Ky., in 1849, to Thomas J. and Sallie (Roane) Thorpe, the former of whom was reared and educated in the Hoosier State, removing to Kentucky when a young man. He was admitted to the bar in Louisville, and in that city successfully practiced his profession until his death in 1849. His wife was a Virginian by birth, a grand-daughter of Chief Justice Roane of Virginia and great-grand-daughter of Patrick Henry. She died in 1859. T. H. Thorpe was the youngest of five brothers, attained manhood on Blue-Grass soil, his education being obtained in the schools of that State and in Philadelphia, Penn., having removed to this city at the age of sixteen years, at which place he entered the law office of E. H. Thorpe & Thomas J. Dwight, at the same time taking lectures in the Law University.

In September, 1870, he was admitted to the Philadelphia bar, and there continued to practice his profession until 1880, when he removed to Marksville, La., at which place he was admitted to the Louisiana bar in January, 1890. He has always been a faithful practice, and is now enjoying the rewards of his diligence. His desire to establish himself in a more lucrative field has been realized, and he has made a reputation for himself for ability, zeal and earnestness. He was married in 1871, in Philadelphia, to Miss Mary L. Fisher, by whom he has two sons and three daughters. Mr. Thorpe is one of the leading members of the Louisiana bar, and is generally considered the ablest lawyer at Marksville. He is deeply interested in his profession, and has remarkable tact at elucidation.

J. M. Watson is an industrious, enterprising man of business, and as a general merchant of Bunkie, La., he has built up a large paying trade He was born in St. Helena Parish, La., in 1845, and was there reared and educated. For about four years he was engaged as manager of a cooperative store in Grangeville. La., but in 1886 began merchandising in East Feliciana Parish for himself, and there successfully continued operations until February, 1890, when he bought the general mercantile stock belonging to Harvey & Weirs, of Bunkie, La., and tit this place has since conducted a flourishing business. His earnest and sincere endeavors to succeed in life have resulted satisfactorily, and as a shrewd financier he has not his superior in the parish. His marriage which occurred in 1870 was to Miss Lizzie Woodward, who died in 1885, leaving five children, two sons and three daughters, one child dying at the age of ton years, in 1888. In 1888 Mr. Watson's second marriage took place, his wife being Miss Florence White, and to their marriage a daughter and son have been born. Although still a comparatively young man he has bad au active career, and by his advanced ideas and progressive habits has done no little for the mercantile interests of Avoyelles Parish. His parents, John and Anna (Hays) Watson, were Louisianans by birth, and the father was a prosperous planter of Eastern Louisiana for many years.

He died in 1861, at the age of forty-five years, and his widow passed from life in 1890 at the age of seventy-three years. A. B. West is a member of the well-known general mercantile firm of W. A. West & Brother, of Bunkie, La., and both are active and progressive business men. A. B. West was born in Avoyelles Parish, La., September 28, 1808, to Isham and E. C. (O'Quinn) West, both of whom were born, reared, educated and married in this State, the former being a planter by occupation. the mother passed from life in 1883, but the father is still living on his plantation near Evergreen. A. B. West was educated in Keatchie College, Keatchie, La., and after leaving this institution was for about two years engaged as clerk. About 1888 he opened a mercantile establishment in Bunkie, and has since carried an exceptionally large and well selected stock of goods. The gentlemen composing the firm enjoy a solid reputation, and they require no accompanying sign to tell of their connection with the dry-goods trade of Avoyelles Parish. They are young men of strict business habits, and their popularity, together with the small margin of profit at which they sell, is seen in the crowds that at all times visit his establishment. They have always contributed their share to every public enterprise, and have at all times labored to advance the best interests of the parish.

Prof. Charles Campbell Wier, Evergreen, La. This prominent and very successful educator was originally from Mississippi. He was born in Enterprise, in 1866, and is a son of T. D. and Margaret (Campbell) Wier, both natives of Alabama. The father was of Irish and the mother of Scotch descent. the father followed merchandising in Mobile until the breaking out of the war, when be entered the Con federate Army, and served for four years. After the war he was located for a short time in Enterprise, Miss., where he was a cotton buyer, but in 1867 he removed to Louisiana, where he purchased a plantation near Bunkie, in 1868. which he has successfully operated ever since. Prof. Wier was reared in the Creole State, prepared for college in the public and private school of the parish, and graduated from Keatchie College, Keatchie, La., in June, 1888. The following September, he opened a school in St. Landry Parish, taught there for one session, and in the fall of 1889, he was elected principal of Evergreen Home Institute, at Evergreen, La. Mr. Wier's predecessor having died while in charge of the institute, the school had deteriorated rapidly, and when Mr. Wier assumed charge he had but a few scholars. Now the school has a large attendance, and is in a flourishing condition. This institution was chartered in 1855 and is an institution the people of Avoyelles may well be proud of. Mr. Wier is a gentleman of judgment and ability, and his efforts in behalf of the school have been highly appreciated by his patrons.

Robert Dumville Windes, planter, Eola, La. Mr. Windes is a well-to do cotton planter of Avoyelles Parish, La., this occupation having received his attention from early boyhood, his father having been uncommonly devoted to agriculture. He is a native of St. Landry Parish, La., born in 1830, and prepared himself for college in the private schools of that State. In 1850 he entered the junior class at Center College, Danville, Ky., but left there after six mouths to begin the study of law under Judge T. B. Monroe, of Frankfort, Ky. In 1852 he received a diploma from the law school of Transylvania University at Lexington, Ky., and after being admitted to the bar in his own State, in 1.855, practiced law in New Orleans for a short lime. Upon the death of his mother in 1859, he returned home. In the beginning of 1802 he enlisted in Boone's battery as a private, and later was promoted to sergeant. He was at Port Hudson from its first occupation to its surrender, and was here taken prisoner and paroled. Upon being exchanged in the latter part of December, he rejoined his command and served until the close of hostilities, being disbanded at Alexandria. Since his return home he has operated his plantation, and has been sufficiently successful to keep out of debt and his place free from mortgages. He has been a lifelong student of the classics, Greek and Latin, speaks and writes the French language quite proficiently, and reads German. Being in easy financial circumstances, he is enabled to give his chief attention to literature to the exclusion of money making, and though taking a keen interest in general politics, he is not an active politician and has no aspirations for office. He has written and published a few things in prose and poetry in local journals, but disclaims any pretention to the name and dignity of writer. His parents, Dr. Robert Dumville Windes, Sr., and Eugenia Peak Ferguson, were natives of Tennessee and Louisiana, respectively.

The father was reared and principally educated in Missouri, whither he had removed with his parents in childhood. When nineteen years of age, he came to St. Landry Parish, where he taught school and pursued the study of medicine, which he had begun under an able physician in Missouri. In 1834 he removed to Avoyelles Parish, and purchased the property where his son, E. D. Windes (subject) now resides. He cleared his land and in connection practiced his profession. His death occurred in 1809, his widow having preceded him ten years.

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