Grant Parish, Louisiana History and Genealogy
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Enoch J. Barfield has been a prosperous planter of this parish for about twenty years, but was born in Macon County, Ga., in 1842, to Jesse and Smith (Taylor) Barfield, who were born in Duplin County, N. C, in 1813, and Georgia in 1819, respectively. Their marriage was celebrated in Macon County, of the latter State, and there they are still residing, the father engaged in tilling the soil.

He was with Gen. Scott in the Mexican War for a short time, and as a man and citizen possesses many admirable traits. He is a son of Roger and grandson of Barty Barfield, both of whom were born in South Carolina, the former dying in the War of 1812, and the latter passing from life in Georgia, when the subject of this sketch was eight years of age. He was of Scotch-Irish descent, and in all probability served the American cause in the War of the Revolution. William Taylor, the maternal grandfather, was a North Carolinian, and died in Georgia, a farmer. The subject of this sketch is the fourth of eleven Children, and received his education in the common schools. in 1861 he put aside all personal considerations to serve the Confederacy, enlisting in Company F, Twenty-seventh Georgia Infantry, serving in the Army of Virginia and fighting at Pineville, Cold Harbor, Second Bull Run, South Mountain, Antietam (where he was wounded), Gettysburg, Chancellorsville, Fredericksburg, the seven day's fight around Richmond.

Petersburg, and was then sent to Charleston, S. C, and assisted in the defense of Fort Sumter. Fort Gregg, etc. From there he went to Florida, where he was in one fight, after which he returned to Virginia, and surrendered with Gen. Lee, then returned home. After the war he spent two years in Mississippi, in 1868 went to Texas, and in 1869 came to Winn Parish, La., where he was married the same year to a lady with whom he had been acquainted in Georgia, Mary, daughter of William and Tabitha Taylor, who were born in Georgia, coming to Winn Parish in 1859. Mr. Taylor died on the farm on which Mr. Barfield is residing, about 1880, his wife being now a resident of Natchitoches Parish. Mrs. Barfield was born in Macon County, Ga., and is the mother of thirteen children, seven of whom are living. Mr. Barfield resided near Alexandria until 1870, and since then in Grant Parish, and on his present farm since 1889, it comprising 300 acres, all of which is the result, of his own industry. His wife is an earnest member of the Baptist Church.

Joseph Billis, like so many of the residents of this parish, is an agriculturist and merchant. He was born in France in 1840 to Joseph and Angelic (Marty) Billis, who spent their lives in their native land, the mother being still alive. The father died in June, 1890, a worthy tiller of the soil. The subject of this sketch is the second of six children, but he was the only one of the family to come to the United States. He was reared in his native land on his father's farm, receiving a common-school education, and served seven years in the French Army, and in the last war (in 1870) between France and Germany. In 1871 he came to Louisiana, where he had relatives living, and here has since made his home, being one of the leading planters of Grant Parish. His tract of land embraces 785 acres, and all but 100 acres, which is cleared and under cultivation, is heavily covered with timber. He has 640 acres in another tract, and since 1875 has managed a mercantile establishment with good results, keeping a full and choice stock of plantation supplies. All of this property is the result of his own unaided efforts, for which he deserves much credit. He was at one time postmaster of Natasha, is a Catholic in his religious belief, and socially is a member of Lodge No. 45 of the K. of P. at New Orleans.

Dr. Edward Roberson Brownell (deceased) was one of the representative citizens of Rapides Parish now known as Grant Parish, La., and a physician of decided ability. He was born in East Hartford, Conn., in 1825, and received his education in the best colleges of his native State, graduating from Yale. He then studied medicine, graduated in that State, and when a young man came to Louisiana.

This was prior to 1849. He located where Mrs. Brownell now resides, and then again attended medical colleges at New Orleans, where he received another diploma. After this he practiced his profession in Louisiana until 1864, when he returned to East Hartford, Conn., but made that State his home only during the summer months, as he was compelled on account of ill health to spend the winter in a warmer climate. He traveled a great deal through Europe, the West Indies and South America, and came in contact with many noted men and statesmen. He was married August 23, 1853, to Miss Pamela Layssard, daughter of Malafret Layssard and grand-daughter of Bolon Layssard, a native of France, who came, to this country when Louisiana was yet a Territory, settling in Rapides Parish, and his son Malafret Layssard settled in Grant Parish, where he followed planting.

Malafret Layssard was but seventeen years of age during the War of 1812, and served as lieutenant of his company. His death occurred in January, 1878, when eighty-five years of age. The father of our subject, Dr. Pardon Brownell, was a noted physician of East Hartford. Conn., and graduated with honors at Yale. He was a brother of Bishop Brownell, of Hartford, Conn. Dr. Edward E. Brownell was a member of the Hartford Club for a number of years, and during the war his sympathies were with the Union. He was a direct descendant of Capt. Church, who captured King Phillip, the great Indian chief, and also of the Brownell that fought at Bunker Hill, Mass. His mother was a daughter of Capt. Charles De Wolf, of Revolutionary fame. His brother, Harry Howard Brownell, was quite a poet and historian. His little volumes have long been out of print, and yet in 1865 Oliver Wendell Holmes styled him the Battle Laureate of America. His war lyrics, printed in Gen. Hawley's paper, attracted Farragut's attention, and for several years he was the Admiral's secretary. He was with Farragut at, Mobile Bay, August 5, 1804. To Dr. Edward E. Brownell and wife were born six children, two are dead and four living: Francis E. (represents the Connecticut Mutual Life Insurance Company at Atlanta, Ga.), Clarence D. W. (is a resident of Providence, E. I., and is attending to his father's estate), Charles H. and Lucia E. (are at home). Dr. E. E. Brownell died December 30, 1889, and in his death the children lost a kind father, the mother a loving husband and the parish an excellent citizen.

He was a member of the Episcopal Church, and was respected and esteemed for his many good qualities of mind and heart. Mrs. Brownell was born in New Orleans, December 23, 1838, and is a lady of culture and refinement. Although left desolate by the death of her companion, who shared with her the sorrows of life, she can say as many good Christians before her have done: " Thy will be done."

William Newton Creed, planter, Colfax, La. Mr. Creed is eminently a self-made man, and what he has won in the way of this world's goods is wholly due to his enterprise, thrift and honesty. He is a native of this State, born in Lincoln Parish on October 31, 1851, and his parents, William H. and Sarah Ann (Kelly) Creed, are natives of Alabama. The parents moved to Lincoln Parish, La., at au early day, thence to Jackson Parish, and there the mother's death occurred in 1856. In 1868 the father married Mrs. Mauray, of Lincoln Parish, and in 1882 they moved to Grant Parish, where the father died when fifty-six years of age.

He had followed farming all his life, and although he lost the major part of his property during the Civil War, he went to work with renewed vigor afterward, and was soon doing remarkably well, being quite wealthy at the time of his death. He kept store in Lincoln Parish for some years in connection with his farming interest, and was a man of great business acumen. Of the five children born to the first union, three are now living, and our subject is the eldest in order of birth: John L. (is a resident of Navarro County, Tex.), and Sarah Ann (is the wife of John Bronson, of Lincoln Parish, La.). William N. Creed spent his school boy days in Lincoln Parish, and when eighteen years of age he started out to make fame and fortune for himself as an agriculturist, He remained in Lincoln Parish until 1880, and then came to Grant Parish, locating in the wood ten miles west of Colfax, where he has 320 acres of land, with sixty acres under cultivation. He served three years as police jury, and filled that position with credit to himself and the people. In 1882 he commenced the milling business, conducting a gin, grist and saw mill for some time, and also engaged in merchandising. The latter business he has carried on for five years, and carries a $2,000 in stock of general merchandise. When he started out for himself he had but 50 cents, and was in debt $10. By industry and good business ability he has surmounted every difficulty, and is at the present time very comfortably fixed indeed.

In 1869 he was married to Miss Beatrice Kelley, a native of Union Parish, La., and to the assistance of this pleasant companion Mr. Creed attributes a great deal of his success. To this marriage eight interesting children have been born: Minnie Lee (wife of Richard Newton, resides near her father), Mabel (resides near home and is the wife of Burrill Mundy), George L. (at home), William A., A. B., Henry M. and Clarice and Clara (twins). Mr. and Mrs. Creed are members of the Baptist Church, find in politics he is a stanch Democrat.

Samuel C. Curry is a lumberman, farmer, and one of the directors of Mount Zion College, his birth having occurred in Abbeville District, S. C., in 1824. Isaiah and Mary (O'Neal) Curry, his parents, were born in Lincoln County, Ga., in 1800 and Norfolk, Va., respectively, their marriage having taken place in South Carolina in 1823. They removed to Barber County, Ala., in 1833, and in 1852 came to Louisiana, settling in Winn Parish, after which they moved to Natchitoches Parish, where they died in 1866 and 1863, respectively, both members of the Protestant Methodist Church. Mr. Curry was a well-to-do farmer, and in every respect self-made, industrious and energetic.

He was a member of Coulterville Lodge of the A. P. & A. M., a son of Isaiah Curry, who was born in Scotland, but came to America prior to the Revolution, settling in Georgia, where he died a farmer. Two brothers came to this country after he did, and followed the occupation of teaching. The maternal grandfather, John O'Neal, was born in Ireland, and also came to America when a young man prior to the Revolution, spending the rest of his life in Virginia, dying there while in his prime. Mrs. Curry was his only child, and to her union with Mr. Curry eleven children were born, nine sons and two daughters. The subject of this sketch and his brother. Whitfield A., are the only ones of the family now living. He was reared on a farm, receiving but little schooling, and in 1847 was married to Rebecca, a daughter of Owen Aldridge, who was killed in Flanagan's massacre during the Texas Revolution.

She was born in Georgia, and died in Alabama in 1852, leaving one son, George W. In 1854 Mr. Curry came to what is now Grant Parish, and was married here four years later to Maria J. Hicks (see sketch of I. N. Hicks). She was born in Coosa County, Ala., and has borne her husband nine children, six of whom are living. Since the war Mr. Curry has resided on the old Hicks plantation, and is the owner of about 3,000 acres of fine timber land, the result of his industry and perseverance. About fifteen years ago he built the first saw-mill in this vicinity, and has operated it ever since, its capacity being 6,000 feet per day. In connection with this he also runs a cotton-gin and grist-mill. Many years ago he was a mechanic and machinist, and these callings now come in good play. He has been justice of the peace twenty-two years, police juror twenty-four years in Winn Parish, but after Grant Parish was organized he was made police juror of this parish, and served until a few years ago, during eight years of his service being president of that body. He has always taken a prominent part in political and general matters, and is well-known and esteemed. In 1861 he joined Company D, Twelfth Louisiana Infantry, and operated in the Tennessee Army as a mechanic and foreman of a wagon department, serving in this capacity until the close of the war, taking part in the Georgia and Atlanta campaign, surrendering with Johnston's army at Jonesboro, N. C. He was not wounded nor captured during his service. He has been a member of the A. P. & A. M. since before the war, and since the war has been a member of Montgomery Lodge No. 168. He is a member of the Farmers' Alliance, and was instrumental in founding Mount Zion College, and is now one of its chief supporters. His wife is a member of the Protestant Methodist Church.

Albert A. Dean, merchant, Fairmount, La. Among the many enterprises of a town or parish that of merchandising takes a prominent place, dealing as they do in all the necessaries of life. Among those prominently engaged in this occupation is Mr. Dean, who is one of the substantial men of the parish. He was originally from Panola County, Miss., born June 21, 1854, and was one of eight children, six. now living, born to Allen B. C. and Dorcas Jane (Alexander) Dean, natives of Georgia and Alabama, respectively. The parents were married in Alabama, resided there for a short time, and then moved to Mississippi, where they made their home until 1854. They then removed to Louisiana, settled in Catahoula Parish, and from there they moved to Rapides Parish, in December, 1866. In 1885 they came to Grant Parish.

The father has followed farming all his life, and has been moderately successful. He was a soldier in the Florida War, and helped get the Indians removed to the reservation, west of the Mississippi River, He is a strong Democrat in his political principles. He is now seventy-four years of age, and his wife is sixty-eight, and both are enjoying comparatively good health. The Dean family is of English descent. Their children are named in order of their births as follows: Mary E., Eliza J., Albert A., George M. (a farmer of this parish), Franklin B. (a farmer of this parish), and Burkett (also of this parish). Albert A, received his education in Catahoula and Rapides Parishes, and when nineteen years of age he turned his attention to mercantile pursuits. This business he continued in Colfax, La., from 1874 to 1880, when he moved to Fairmount, where he has since been carrying on the same, but is also extensively engaged in planting. He is the owner of a half section of land, near Colfax, and has about 213 acres under cultivation. He commenced working for himself with limited means, but has been successful, and is considered one of the young, but rising merchants and planters. In 1870 he selected Miss Clara E. Price, daughter of E. Price, of Rapides Parish, and to this marriage have been born seven children: Hattie E., George H., Albert M., Leonadas B., Ollie L., Garland, and an infant unnamed. Mr. and Mrs. Dean are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church South, and are influential members of the same. Mr. Dean is one of the trustees of Alexander High School, which is under the auspices of the above-mentioned church. In politics Mr. Dean is a Democrat.

John Walker Dean is a farmer of Grant Parish, La., but was born in Talladega County, Ala., in 1853, being a son of Seaborn and Perlina (Milam) Dean, the former of whom was born in Autauga County, Ala., in 1823, his marriage taking place in Talladega County, Ala., in 1847. In 1855 he removed to Jackson Parish, La., and the next year settled in Winn Parish, where he made his home until 1889, since which time he has resided in Grant Parish with his son, John Walker. His father, Jarret Dean, was probably born in North Carolina, and died in Talladega County, Ala., in 1847, having been in one of the early Indian wars. Perlina (Milam) Dean was born in South Carolina about 1827 to Bartlett and Lizzie Bell Milam, also of South Carolina, and worthy residents of that State. The subject of this sketch is the third of seven children born to his parents, five of whom are living: Mary F. (wife of J. D. Williams), Susan L. (wife of M. K. Holston). John Walker, Ardella (wife of Thomas Jackson), and Emma (wife of Watt Jackson). John Walker was reared on a farm, obtaining a limited country-school education, and at twenty-five years of age began working for himself, two years for wages and afterward independently. His marriage took place in Winn Parish in 1879, and was to Mrs. Elizabeth Holston. a daughter of David M. and Mary A. (Gardner) Smith, who were born in Georgia and Alabama, respectively, were married in the latter State, and in 1855 emigrated to Winn Parish, La., where they made their home until 1888 moving then to Ward 6, Grant Parish, where they expect to make their future abiding place. Both are members of the Baptist Church, and he belongs to Montgomery Lodge No. 168 of the A. P. & A. M, Mrs. Dean was born in Talladega County, Ala., and died in August, 1888, a worthy member of the Baptist Church. She bore a family of seven children, six of whom survive her. Mr. Dean was a resident of AWinn Parish until 1885, when he moved to four miles above Colfax, which place was his home until 1890. He then moved to two and one-half miles below Montgomery, on a 300-acre tract, known as the Christina farm. This property is valuable, and has been purchased by Mr. Dean with money earned by the sweat of his brow. He belongs to Summerfield Lodge of the Farmers' Alliance, and is a worthy and honest son of the soil.

Dr. M. A. Dunn has devoted a number of years to the practice of the healing art, but gives much attention to farming also, in both occupations meeting with good success. He was born in Lincoln Parish, La., in 1851, to Hon. C. C. and Sarah (Smith) Dunn, both Mississippians, who were taken to Lincoln Parish, La,, by their parents when children, where they grew to maturity and were married. Mrs. Dunn was called to her long home in 1852, but Mr. Dunn still survives her, having resided near Montgomery since 1859. Although a merchant for many years ho is now a planter, and is a successful and intelligent one.

His shrewd and far-seeing views on all matters of a public nature have been recognized by his numerous friends in this section, and by them he has been several times elected to represent Grant Parish in the State Legislature, and is its present representative.' He is a prominent member of Montgomery Lodge No. 168 of the A. P. & A. M., and during the Rebellion was a soldier in the Confederate Army, being a member of the Twenty-seventh Louisiana Infantry. He was wounded at Vicksburg, after which he did camp duty principally. John A. Dunn, his father, was a Georgian, and after spending some time in Mississippi, came to what is now Lincoln Parish, moving afterward to Texas, where he died, having been a prominent Baptist divine. He delivered the first sermon ever given at Lampasas. Tex., and possessed all the wit, shrewdness and intelligence of his Irish ancestors. Isham Smith, the mother's father, was also one of the early residents of what is now Lincoln Parish, La., and was a tiller of the soil. He died in Winn Parish about 1868, having been a participant in one of the early Indian wars. Dr. M. A. Dunn is the only surviving child by his father's first wife, and his education was received in the common schools. In 1872-73 he entered the medical department of the University of Louisiana, and in 1874 graduated from the University of Louisville, Ky., after which he entered upon his practice in Montgomery, La., where he continued until 1884, since which time he has been a resident of Colfax, and has given considerable amount of his attention to farming since that time, his land being situated four miles north of Colfax. From 1888 he was coroner of Grant Parish for two years, and socially is a member of Montgomery Lodge No. 168 of A. F. & A. M. and the Farmers' Alliance. He was married F 1874 to Miss Eosa K., daughter of James H, and Susan Reitzell, who were born at Baton Rouge, the former being killed at Atlanta, Ga., during the war while serving in the Twelfth Louisiana, and his wife died during the war also. Mrs. Dunn was born in Rapides Parish, La., and is a worthy member of the Methodist Church.

Henry Easterbrook, business manager of the Farmers" Union Co-operative Association Store, Colfax, was born at Wolver Hampton, Staffordshire, England, April 22, 1850, and was educated in London, first in the private schools and subsequently in the City of Loudon Middle Class School, an institution founded originally for the purpose of giving a first-class education to the sons of men in mercantile positions, afterward extended so as to offer similar advantages to the daughters of the upper middle class also. After finishing his education he entered the house of Blumberg & Co., of Cannon Street, London, one of the largest handlers of dry goods and notions, strictly first-class, in the city. There he had ample opportunity of becoming thoroughly acquainted with business management, and for several years he enjoyed the confidence of his employers and the respect of the numerous staff of employees with whom he was daily brought in contact. in the fall of 1883 he left London for the States, joining George and Richard, his brothers (the latter now in business in Shreveport), in October of that year. Here he has divided his time between farming and teaching. In April, 1890, he was selected manager of the Alliance Store at Colfax, a position he still occupies. He has built up a considerable trade for the Union, whose interests he has strictly at heart. He has been in Louisiana about seven years, and during that time he has made his way into the confidence of all with whom he has had dealings. As a teacher he has au excellent reputation, and he is a man of intelligence and reliability. He was married in London, in 1882, to Miss Alice A. Norris, by whom he has three Children: Harry Roland (born October 8, 1884), Maud Alice (born August 2, 1887), and Benjamin Daniel (born March 15, 1890).

James W. Elbridge is a farmer, miller and grainer of Ward 7, Grant Parish, La., but was born in Conecuh County, Ala., in 1852, to Lewis and Jane (Presley) Elbridge, the former being also born in that county in 1828, and the latter in Butler County, Ala. They were married in 1850, and made their home in Alabama until 1873, when they came to Grant Parish, where they are still residing. The father was tax assessor in Alabama when he left that State. He served four months in Company H, First Georgia Artillery, at Fort Haines, Ala., in 1863, and also in other ways assisted the Confederate cause. He is a member of the A. F. & A. M., and is a son of John and Jane (Chitty) Elbridge, who spent their latter years in Alabama. Mrs. Elbridge was a daughter of Elias and Polly Presley, who died in Butler County, La. James W. Elbridge is the eldest of five children born to his parents, and obtained his early education in the common schools. He was married in 1873 to Alpha J., daughter of John and Rebecca Barker, the former dying during the war while in a Northern prison, the latter being still a resident of Georgia. Mrs. Elbridge was born in this State, and has borne her husband one son and four daughters. Immediately after their marriage they came to Grant Parish, La., and settled on a woodland farm, being now the owners of 180 acres of fertile farming land, of which 100 acres are river bottom land. In addition to this Mr. Ethredge is the proprietor of an excellent grist mill and cotton-gin. He started in life for himself with nothing, but now commands a comfortable competency. He is a shrewd and farseeing financier, and gives every promise of one day becoming wealthy. He and his wife are Methodists, and for over two years he was constable of Ward 7.

H. G. Goodwyn, editor and proprietor of the Chronicle of Colfax, was born in St. Mary's Parish on April 10, 1850, and is a son of Rev. P. M. and Angeline (Moore) Goodwyn, natives, respectively, of Indiana and Kentucky. The father was born near New Albany, November 20, 1820, emigrated to Louisiana about 1837, and located in New Orleans, where he became a member of the Methodist Episcopal Annual Conference. He was a minister all his life, and his time and services were spent in building up the cause of Christianity. He was one of the prominent ministers of the State as well as one of the early ones. He was ordained in the Mississippi Conference in 1842, which at that time included the State of Louisiana. In 1843 he was appointed to Caddo Circuit, then to the Yazoo Circuit, and in 1848 to Alexandria. The following year he was appointed to Opelousas, and in fact held appointments from one end of the State to the other. He was a circuit rider for thirty-two years in Louisiana, and occupied a superannuated position in the ministry for about twelve years. He died on November 24, 1884, leaving a widow and two children by the last wife. H. G. Goodwyn is the only child living of the first marriage.

He was reared to manhood in the different circuits to which his father was appointed, and received his education as he could get it. In 1866 he went to Camden, Ark., entered the Herald office as an apprentice, and there remained about three years. He was afterward on the Red River Post, at Louisville, from 1870 to 1871, and then traveled a few years in his profession. in January, 1874, he went to New Orleans, remaining until 1877, and working nearly all the while on the New Orleans Bulletin, of which Dan Byerly was proprietor, and Page M. Baker, editor. In November, 1877, he came to Colfax and took charge of the Chronicle as editor and publisher. Two years later be purchased the outfit, and has since con tinned its publication successfully. As a newspaper man Mr. Goodwyn is one who understands his business thoroughly, and has had experience.

The paper is thoroughly established, and its crisp and trenchant editorials command an ever widening area of circulation. Mr. Goodwyn was married on February 22, 1881, to Miss Luella Lewis, daughter of A. C. Lewis, an old resident of Grant Parish, and the fruits of this union have been six children: Angeline, Alfred, Gertrude, Elizabeth Ethel and Keener. Mr. Goodwyn has been a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church since 1865.

Ernest Grandchampt has an excellent plantation of 330 acres, and although it is not as large as some, it is so admirably tilled that the profits are large. Mr. Grandchampt was bora in Natchitoches in 1834 to John jB and Mary Azelie (Adley) Grandchampt, the former born in Bordeaux, France, in 1811, and the latter in Natchitoches, La., in 1818. Mr. Grandchamp came to the United States in 1824 on a French man-of-war as a lieutenant, but after landing at Florida Keys he deserted. He clerked for some time in Atchafalaya Bank of New Orleans after which he came to Natchitoches, where he was married. About 1843 or 1844 he went to the West Indies where he spent about four years as a book-keeper, serving also as au architect. He then returned to New Orleans, where he died in 1851, his wife passing from life in Natchitoches Parish, in 1800. They were Catholics. Mr. Grandchampt was fairly prosperous in his business ventures, and as a man and citizen his good name was above reproach. The mother's father's (John B. Adley) birth occurred in St. James, Miss., but was married in Natchitoches Parish, La., where he followed the occupation of planting until he was assassinated in 1834. Ernest Grandchampt is the eldest of eight children—three sons and five daughters, and received a good French and English education at New Orleans. He was married in 1854 to Mary O., daughter of Athauas DuPre of Natchitoches, she being also born there, her death occurring in 1805, leaving one son, Victor. Mr. Grandchampt's second marriage took place in 1886, to Mary E., daughter of Onezime Eachal, who was born and spent his life in the city of Natchitoches.

Mrs. Grandchampt was born there and is the moth er of one child by Mr. Grandchampt. The latter followed carpentering and building in different parishes until a few years since, when he began giving his attention to farming, having been a resident of his present farm since 1875, it being situated six miles below Montgomery. He is a Catholic.

W. O. Harrison is a general merchant, cotton buyer and planter of Montgomery, La., and as a merchant has been established in this place since 1879, his annual sales amounting to about $30,000.

He was born in East Baton Rouge Parish, La., being the second of nine children born to Dr. Thomas O. and Elizabeth (Sullivan) Harrison, who were also born in that parish, there' making their home until 1857, when they removed to Ouachita Parish, and the same year to Montgomery where they spent many years of their lives, but are now residing in Winn Parish. The Doctor has practiced medicine for about forty years, and is still engaged in his efforts to relieve the suffering of others, being one of the foremost physicians of Central Louisiana. He graduated from Jackson (La.) College, and both in his practice and in his business investments he has been very successful financially. Socially he belongs to Montgomery Lodge No. 168 of the A. F. & A. M., and he and his wife inherit Scotch and Irish blood from their ancestors.

W. O. Harrison was educated principally in Montgomery, and at the age of sixteen began clerking for himself, continuing for seven years, after which he rented land and farmed for four years. He is now, however, the owner of 1,108 acres of good river land, all of which has been earned by his own efforts. He was married in 1875, to Miss Elmena, daughter of Judge A. W. and Harriet G. Eagan, who came from Tennessee to Winn Parish, La., in 1859, afterward moving to Montgomery, where they both died. Judge Eagan was judge of Grant Parish for four years and also justice of the peace some years. He was a prominent Mason, and he and his wife were Methodists. Mrs. Harrison was born in Ouachita Parish, and has borne Mr. Harrison six children. She is a Methodist, and he is a member of the A. P. & A. M.

Charles Dennis Hickman, planter, Fairmount. Prominent among the successful and representative citizens of Grant Parish stands the name of Mr. Hickman, who is a gratifying example of what may be accomplished in the voyage of life when a determined hand is at the helm. He was born on the plantation where he now resides, in Grant Parish, March 21, 1848, and is the son of Thomas J. find Emma (Gaiennie) Hickman, natives of Kentucky and Louisiana, respectively. The father moved from Kentucky to Arkansas, and at an early day to Rapides Parish, La., where he was extensively engaged in planting. He was one of the wealthiest men in the parish, owning an immense amount of real estate. He died with yellow fever, in Rapides Parish, in 1856. After his death his widow married Col. Blanchard, and resided in Rapides Parish until her death, in 1871. C. D. Hickman was one of eight children born to his parents, only three besides himself now living: Thomas J., William P. and James P. C, D. received his education principally in St. James Parish, and when sixteen years of age ho started out as a planter. At the age of twenty he began working for himself, and is now the owner of 500 acres of land, with 250 acres in the home place, all in Grant and Rapides Parishes. In 1875 he was married to Miss Effie Baillio, daughter of Sostan Baillio, of Rapides Parish, La. By this union were born nine living children: Hamilton, Charles D. Jr., Kenneth J., Mary, Converse, Fred, Hugh, Ethel and Robert. Those deceased were named Thomas and Nena, both of whom died when quite young. The family arc members of the Catholic Church.

George W. Hickman, planter, Fairmount, La. This prominent citizen was born eight miles from Alexandria, in Rapides Parish, La., March 19. 1842, and is the son of William P. and Mary Ann (Baillio) Hickman, natives of North Carolina and Rapides Parish, La., respectively. William P. Hickman moved from his native State to Hempstead County, Ark., and from there to Louisiana, at a very early day. He opened the farm on which Colfax now stands, and was a successful planter.

He resided principally in Louisiana, but wanted a place to spend his summers and educate his children, and went to Kentucky to buy a place, but before he was suited his death occurred, in the town of Shelbyville, Ky., July 4, 1842, the same year the subject of this sketch was born. The mother is still living, is seventy-six years of age, and is a member of the Catholic Church, in which faith she has reared her family. They were the parents of six children, only three now living; Mrs. J. M. Rhorer, John W. and George W. (who is the youngest), William P., Jr. (died in South Louisiana, during the war; he was in the commissary department, and died from exposure), Mrs. T. K. Smith (died recently), and Thomas (died when quite young). George W. Hickman received his education in Parker's school, in Rapides Parish, and at St. Vincent's College, at Cape Girardeau, Mo. After this he attended the Louisiana Military Academy, at Pineville, La., when Gen. Sherman was its president, and early in 1862 ho joined Company D, First Louisiana Cavalry, in which he served until taken prisoner at Winchester, Ky. He was retained at Camp Chase, Ohio, first, then at Port Delaware, and was exchanged a short, time before the close of the war. He participated in the battle of Richmond (Ky.), Murfreesboro, and several smaller engagements. He was in active duty all the time, and often escaped death in a miraculous manner, at one time having his hat shot through, and at another time a ball went through his cartridge box. After the war Mr. Hickman returned to Louisiana, and commenced his career as a planter. He is the owner of 500 acres in all, and has 350 acres under cultivation, the land being above overflow on the Red River. This is called Fairmount plantation, and is beautifully situated, containing a fine residence, etc. In 1808 Mr. Hickman was wedded to Miss Rosa Baillio, a native of Rapides Parish, and the fruits of this union are ten children, viz.: W. P., Mary Stella, Annie, George J., Ora Emily, Gervais, John Ashton, Effie Julie, Jennie Elaine and Sadie H. Mr. and Mrs. Hickman are members of the Catholic Church, and in his political views Mr. Hickman affiliates with the Democratic party.

Isaac Newton Hicks, a worthy farmer of this parish, was born in Coosa County, Ala., in 1838, to Rev. James H. and Moley (Bird) Hicks, who were born and resided in Bibb County, Ala., until 1855, when they came to what is now Grant Parish, settling on a woodland farm, which they greatly improved, and on which the father resided until his death in 1866, his wife being still a resident of the old plantation. He was a Protestant Methodist minister during the last twelve years of his life, in every respect a self-made man, and a well-to-do farmer. He was among the first American settlers of this section, and at that time his nearest post office was St. Maurice. He organized the first church of his denomination in this section, but did a great deal toward the up building of all churches.

His father, Jonathan Hicks, was reared an orphan in North Carolina, having no relatives of his knowledge in the country. He died in Bibb County, Ala., his father being killed by Tories, while serving on the American side in the Revolutionary War. Peter Bird, the maternal grandfather of the subject of this sketch, died in Grant Parish, about 1868, where he had made his home for about ten years. He was in one of the early Indian wars.

To Rev. James H. and Moley Hicks the following children were born: Mariah J. (wife of S. C. Curry), John AV. (of Winn Parish), Sarah E. (wife of Felix M. McCain), and Isaac Newton (who was reared on a farm, obtaining a country school education. In 1861 he joined Company C, the first company to leave Winn Parish, Third Louisiana Infantry, and served in Arkansas and Missouri, fighting at Oak Hill, Elk Horn, and many others. Just prior to the fall of Vicksburg, he was transferred to Company D, Twelfth Louisiana Infantry, and operated in Mississippi, Georgia, find North Carolina, being at Baker's Creek, Franklin, Tennessee.

Nashville, having prior to this been in the Atlanta campaign, afterward going back to Franklin with Johnston's army. At Bentonville, N. C., August 19, 1864, he lost his right eye, and still carries Yankee lead in his head. Prior to that he had never missed a roll call, but the loss of his eye ended his service. He returned home, and November 16, 1865, was married to Laura, daughter of Henry B. McCain, whose sketch appears in another part of this work. Mrs. Hicks was born in Talladega County, Ala., and is now the mother of three sons and three daughters, all living. He has lived on the old McCain homestead for the past eleven years, being the owner of 350 acres of fertile land, three miles northeast of Montgomery. He is a leading citizen of this section, and he and his wife are prominent members of the Protestant Methodist Church.

James A. Hyde is a general merchant and farmer of Ward 1, Grant Parish, La., but was born in Coosa County, Ala., in 1853, to Hartwell and Sarah (Little) Hyde, who were born in North Carolina and Alabama, respectively, their marriage taking place in the latter State, where they made their home until about 1854, then came to what is now Grant Parish, La., settling on an unimproved farm near Montgomery. Here they are still residing, the father being about sixty years of age, and the mother fifty-one, both members of the Methodist Church. Mr. Hyde served about two years in the Confederate Army, in Louisiana, and inherits Scotch-Irish blood from his father, Stephen Hyde, who was a soldier in one of the early wars. The mother's father, James Little, died in Alabama, a farmer by occupation. The subject of this sketch is the second of nine sons and five daughters, twelve of whom are living, and, although he was reared to the duties of plantation life, he was given the advantages of the schools of Montgomery. At about the age of twenty-three years he began farming for himself, and in 1884 opened a mercantile establishment in Ward 6, but has been located at his present stand since 1887, and this, as well as his 160 acres of good river land, has been earned by his own efforts. He was married, in 1879, to Margaret, a daughter of James and Sarah A. Ketsoe, the former born in Georgia, in 1832, and the latter in Alabama, in 1836, their removal to Grant Parish, La., being in 1875, of which they are still residents. Mr. Ketsoe served in the Confederate Army from 1862 until the close of the war, in the Army of Tennessee. Mrs. Hyde was born in Butler County, Ala., and has borne her husband five Children, four of whom are living. She and Mr. Hyde are worthy members of the Methodist Church.

Sam Johnson, a lumberman, farmer and ginner of Ward 6, Grant Parish, La., was born in the City of Brotherly Love, Penn., in 1849, his parents, Joseph and Anna (Allen) Johnson, being born in Canada and South Carolina in 1823 and 1826, respectively, their marriage taking place in Pennsylvania. They afterward moved to Tennessee, in which State Mr. Johnson died about 1878, his widow passing to her long home in 1880, both being worthy members of the Christian Church.

Mr. Johnson was a merchant and farmer, and a son of James Johnson, who died in Canada. Hugh Allen, the mother's father, died in the Palmetto State. The subject of this sketch was the eldest of eight children, and is the only one now living. He was reared to a farm life principally in Tennessee, and when about sixteen years of age began working for himself in a wagon factory, where he thoroughly learned the trade, but did not follow it long. For some ten years he gave, his attention to carpentering in Tennessee and Kentucky, but has since been engaged in sawmilling. In 1882 he came from Tennessee to Grant Parish, La., and since 1880 has been the proprietor of his present mill, which has a capacity of 10,000 feet per day. He also runs a planing mill, grist-mill and cotton-gin, and is the owner of about 1,500 acres of tine land, about 240 acres being river bottom land, of which 100 acres are under cultivation, till of which has been earned by his own efforts. He was married in Tennessee in 1875, to Miss Lou, daughter of John and Lou Mansfield, her birth occurring in Tennessee, in which State she was left an orphan when very young. Four Children have been born to her union with Mr. Johnson. The latter is a member of Montgomery Lodge No. 108 of the A. F. & A. M., and although he is a Baptist his wife is a member of the Christian Church.

Joshua Kemp, Jr., sheriff and collector, Colfax, La. Mr. Kemp, the popular sheriff and representative citizen of Grant Parish, was born in what is now Grant Parish, La., on January 6, 1855), and is a son of Joshua, Sr., and Eliza (Parsons) Kemp, both natives of Louisiana. The paternal grandfather, Joshua, was born in Louisiana, and was one of the first settlers of Rapides Parish. He was a surveyor, and helped to section the country. His death occurred in Rapides Parish.

The great-grandfather was a native of Scotland and an early emigrant to Louisiana. Joshua Kemp, Sr., father of our subject, is a planter and stock raiser in Ward 3, Grant Parish. He has a large stock farm and is a prosperous planter. He has been a member of the police jury. Joshua Kemp, Jr., the second, and eldest son now living of eight children, six of whom are living, was reared and educated in Grant Parish. He assisted his father on the farm until grown, and then went to Colfax, where he engaged in merchandising. This was in 1882, and he has remained there ever since. He was elected sheriff in 1888, was a member of the town council for several years, and was one of the jury commissioners. He was married in 1890 to Miss Emily A. Normand, a native of Louisiana. Mr. Kemp is a member of the K. of P., and is one of the young, but much-esteemed residents of the county. He fills the office of sheriff in a satisfactory manner, and is admirably suited to the duties of the same, as indeed he would be to airy office calling for bravery and fidelity.

S. M. La Croix, merchant, Colfax, La. There is nothing so markedly shows the strength and prosperity of the trade of Colfax as the number of large concerns engaged in the mercantile business. Prominent among them is the well-known establishment of Mr. La Croix. This gentleman was born in Rapides Parish, near Alexandria, La., on November 5, 1850, and is a son of Isaac and Theodosia A. (Vance) La Croix, natives of Mississippi and Louisiana, respectively, and of French descent. The grandfather, John La Croix, was a prominent planter and one of the first settlers of Avoyelles Parish. His death occurred in Rapides Parish. Isaac La Croix was also a planter, and was a member of the police jury for several years. He also died in Rapides Parish. S. M. La Croix, the eldest son living of eight children, six of whom survive, attained his growth and received his education in the last-named parish. In 1877 he came to Colfax, followed agricultural pursuits for two years, and also tilled the position of constable, to which he had been elected in 1878, and which be still retains. In 1880 he was appointed deputy sheriff and jailer, and this position he has filled in a creditable manner for five years. He was town marshal for four years, and then resigned. In January, 1889, he engaged in the retail grocery business, and is still carrying this on. Mr. La Croix is a self-made man, having started here with no capital, but is now living here in ease, having accumulated a competency. He was married in 1873 to Miss Susan Dean, by whom he he has four children living: Lela, Willie, Charles and Ella. Mr. La Croix owns considerable town property, and this is quite valuable.

Joseph V. Le Sage, druggist, Colfax, La. Holding the leading place among the druggists of Colfax is the above mentioned gentleman. The business he now conducts was established by him five years ago, and he has built it up to au enviable position by upright and honorable dealing, also by keeping nothing but the best and most reliable goods. Mr. Le Sago was born in Louisiana on September 22, 1853, and is the son of Andrie and Marion (Rancebean) Le Sage, natives, respectively, of Louisiana and Kentucky. The father was a printer by trade and followed this -for twenty years or longer. He was a member of the Catholic Church, and was noted for his deeds of charity.

During the war he went to Corinth, Miss., after that battle and there nursed the sick and wounded. He died in Louisiana in 1875 when forty-five years of age, and his wife died in Florida, whither she had gone for her health. They had two sons in the Confederate Army, Andrie, the eldest, being sergeant-major and serving east of the Mississippi River. The grandfather, Andrie Le Sage, was a native of France, and came to Louisiana as a surveyor.

He located on a place near New Orleans, and died while on a surveying trip when but fifty years of age. Joseph V. Le Sage was the fifth of eight children born to his parents. He received a good practical education in the schools near home, and when fourteen years of age started out to fight life's battle for himself. In 1885 he came to Colfax and embarked in the drug business, which he has since carried on. While at home he was deputy sheriff for a number of years. In 1877 he was married to Miss Olitia Carnahan and to them have been born four children: Andrie. Charles A., Louis C. and J. V., Jr. Mr. Le Sage is a member of the K. of P., and in politics affiliates with the Democratic party. He and wife are members of the Catholic Church.

Alfred W. Lewis, planter, Fairmount, La. Although but a young man, Mr. Lewis has made his way to the front ranks among the energetic farmers of Grant Parish, and owing to the attention he has always paid to minor details, he has accumulated a fair share of this world's goods. He is a native-born resident of the parish, his birth occurring February 29, 1860, and be is the son of Alfred C. and Martha E.(Starnes nee Cannon) Lewis, who were also well known here, The father was born in North Carolina in 1812, and died in Grant Parish on December 16, 1888. He came to Louisiana in 1840, and was successfully engaged in tilling the soil in this State until his death. He was magistrate for six years, and was a member of the Catholic Church. He was married three times, our subject's mother being his second wife. His first wife was Ann Chesson, his second, Mrs. Martha E. (Cannon) Starns, who was a widow, and his third was Mrs. Julia Farond. Alfred W. Lewis passed his school days in Grant, Parish, and when nineteen years of age ho started out as an agriculturist, having perhaps naturally inherited a taste for that occupation, his ancestors before him for many generations having followed that calling.

He is the owner of 150 acres of land in Red River Parish. In 1885 he selected Mrs. Rosa Layssard as his life companion, and to this marriage have been born two children: Nena and Amber Lee. Mrs. Lewis was the daughter of B. AV. Bullitt and widow of Archer Layssard. Mr. Lewis is a Democrat in his political views, and he and his wife are worthly members of the Catholic Church. Maj. H. V. McCain has been a resident of Grant Parish, La.. for the past thirty-one years, and his earnest endeavor to make a proper use of the talents given him, and his efforts to succeed in life deserves the respect of all. He was born in Coosa County, Ala., in 1838, being the eldest of six sons and five daughters born to Henry B. and Rebecca (Pool) McCain, who were born in Tennessee and Alabama, about 1812 and 1819, respectively, their marriage taking place in the latter State, where they resided until their removal to Louisiana, in 1859. The father died in Montgomery, La., in 1883, survived by his widow, both being members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Henry B. McCain was a farmer, a calling he learned of his father, James McCain, who was of Scotch descent, but a native of North Carolina.

Adam Pool, the maternal grandfather, was a teacher, of North Carolina, in which State be was born and passed from life. Maj. H. V. McCain was educated in Wewoka Academy, Alabama, and after coming with his parents to Grant Parish, La., he began life for himself as a clerk in Montgomery, La., but upon the opening of the war, discontinued this calling in order to join Company D, Twelfth Louisiana Infantry, Confederate States Army, and held the position of captain until June, 1864, when he was promoted to the rank of major, a position he held until the close of the war. operating in the Army of Tennessee. He was in nearly all the engagements from Columbus, Ky. to Franklin, Tenn., and was twice wounded, first in the arm in front of Atlanta, Ga., and in 1864 he lost his left leg at Franklin, Tenn., and was captured; was kept a prisoner at Camp Chase and Johnson's Island, Ohio, until August, 1805, when he was released and returned home, to once more engage in mercantile pursuits in Montgomery, his establishment being in active operation ever since, he being now the oldest merchant in the place. He was married November 1, 1866, to Lizzie, daughter of Lawrence Dyson, who, with his wife, died in Helena, Ark., when Mrs. McCain was very small.

She was reared by an uncle, Harbert Walker, in Bossier Parish, La., her birthplace. She has borne her husband ten children, nine of whom are living. j From 1879 to 1882 Maj. McCain represented Grant Parish in the State Legislature, being chairman of the enrolling committee, and for three years he has been a member of the police jury from Ward 7.

Grant Parish, both positions being filled with fine executive ability. He is a member of Montgomery Lodge No. 168, F. & A. M., and for one year was junior grand warden of the State of Louisiana, for four years was district deputy grand master of the Eleventh Masonic District of Louisiana, and was worthy master of his lodge several years. He is well and favorably known throughout this region, and he and his wife have long been members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

H. McKnight (deceased) was born in Maine on June 6. 1835, and was reared and educated in St, John, New Brunswick. His parents passed their entire lives in New Brunswick. The father was a ship builder, and was well and favorably known to all seafaring men. H. McKnight left the parental roof when in his seventeenth year, went to Australia and roamed about for several years. He finally came to Louisiana and located in what is now Grant Parish, on a plantation. He enlisted in the Civil War. served three, years, and was then discharged on account of being an officer and his company being disbanded. He was a lieutenant in Westbrook Guards. He was twice wounded, once at the battle of Belmont, and again at the battle of Shiloh. After being discharged he went to New Orleans, where he remained until after the surrender, and then returned to his farm. He followed milling and ginning for a livelihood, and in 1876 he moved to Colfax, where he was appointed recorder of mortgages. He served one term and filled the position in a capable and highly efficient manner. He was a very prominent man, and wielded no small influence with those acquainted with him. His death occurred in August, 1886. He owned at that time a large planting interest which the widow and sons still retain, and about 600 acres of this land are in alluvial soil along Bed River. Socially Mr. McKnight was a member of the Masonic fraternity. He was married in 1860 to Miss Elizabeth Dean, who bore him eleven children, all living: Olive A. (wife of John McNeely), Ella E. (wife of R. S. Cameron), George H- (surveyor of Grant Parish), Susie M. (wife of N. C. McNeely), Thomas P., Anna, Robert E., Joseph, Willie L., John C. and David M. Mrs. McKnight is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. She is a woman of intelligence, and is possessed of excellent business qualifications. J. H. McNeely. merchant, Colfax, La. The general mercantile trade of Colfax is represented by honorable business men, who are full of enterprise.

Among those who hold a leading position in this line is Mr. J. H. McNeely, who is a native of Natchitoches Parish, La., born in April, 1851, and is a son of Nicholas G. and Evaline (Nash) McNeely, natives, respectively, of Louisiana and South Carolina. The parents were married in the former State, and afterward located in Natchitoches Parish, near the county seat. The father was a planter, and followed this occupation the principal part of his life. He died in the winter of 1864, while in the Confederate service. The mother died in 1875. They had a large family of children, only two of whom are now living, one besides our subject, Ludlow. J. H. McNeely was reared in Natchitoches and educated in the common schools. Reared to the duties of the farm he continued the same until twenty-three years of age, when he began clerking in a dry goods store in Grant Parish. This he continued for some time, and in 1880 ho opened a store in Colfax, with H. McKnight under the firm title of McKnight & McNeely. This business was continued lor six years, when Mr. McNeely bought, out McKnight and took in D. A. Smith as a partner. They remained in partnership for about a year, and then Mr. McNeely bought his partner's interest in the store at Colfax, and started a branch store at Boyce, with Mr. Smith in charge. Subsequently Mr. McNeely bought out the entire stock and is now running both stores, one at Boyce and the other at Colfax.

He carries one of the largest and most complete stock of goods kept in Colfax, and is a prominent business man. The same may be said of his store in Boyce. Aside from his mercantile interests be is the owner of about 1,000 acres of land in Grant Parish, and he also deals in live stock, horses, cattle and mules. He has also in connection with his business a livery stable at Colfax, where there may be found always good conveyances. Mr. McNeely was married in 1880, to Miss Olive McKnight, daughter of H. McKnight, and to them have been born four children: Hunter, Howard, Claude and Ivey. Mr. and Mrs. McNeely are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

Capt. Columbus C. Nash, merchant, Colfax, La. Among those men of brain, energy and foresight, who have become prominent in their different callings, stands the name of Capt. C. C. Nash, who is one of the successful merchants of Colfax. He was born in Sabine Parish, La., July 1, 1838, and is a son of Valentine and Mary (Anderson) Nash, who emigrated from Mississippi to Sabine Parish in 1838, being among the pioneers of that region.

There the mother died, but the father is still living in Sabine Parish at the unusual age of ninety-six years, and is probably the oldest man in the parish. Capt. C. C. Nash went to Virginia among the first troops that volunteered in the late Civil War, and was a member Of the Sixth Louisiana Regiment, in command of Company A of that regiment. He was in twenty-three prominent engagements in Virginia, Maryland and Pennsylvania, and was captured at the battle of Chancellorsville. Three weeks later he was released, and subsequently recaptured near Culpeper Court House, at the beginning of the battle of the Wilderness.

He was confined in prison at Johnson's Island until after the cessation of hostilities. He was a brave captain, and has a fine war record, but his bravery has not all been confined to war practice, as will be seen later on. In 1870 he located at Colfax, Grant Parish, as a merchant, and being at all times an outspoken and partisan Democrat, he incurred the bitter enmity of the corrupt officials who then held sway under Republican rule, and in the following fall he was arrested and taken to New Orleans, charged with being a Kuklux, He remained in prison until the following spring (1872), and then came back to Grant Parish. He was elected sheriff in April, 1873. At the instigation of Gov. W. P. Kellogg, aided and abetted by corrupt Republican officials, a riot was incited among the negroes of Grant Parish, under the leadership of Ward, Phillips, Shaw and others, who took forcible possession of the court-house and parish records, and supplanted the legally elected officials. Capt. Nash recognizing this act as a high-handed outrage against the liberties of a free people, and intended only to make political capital to bolster up the tottering power of Kellogg, raised a posse of about, 150 citizens, and drove the mob, numbering about 450, from the entrenchments which they had erected in front of the court-house. This gallant act is recognized by the people of the State as one of the main events which led to placing the State government in the hands of the whiles. Since the restoration of peace in Grant Parish Capt.

Nash has resumed the mercantile business, and lives a quiet and uneventful life. He owns the ground on which his store and residence stands, which is the identical spot on which the negroes had entrenched themselves. He married the only daughter of R. B. Williams, of Montgomery, La., March 6, 1879, and is the happy father of an interesting family.

Benjamin H. Phillips, a lumberman and farmer, was born in Natchitoches (now Grant) Parish, La., in 1846. to Martin and Polly (Hatcher) Phillips, who were born in Barnald and Edgefield District, S. C.. in 1765 and 1803, respectively, their marriage taking place there, am! in 1838 went to Texas, staying but a short while and returning to Louisiana, making their homo for about one year in Sabine Parish. The following year they removed to what is now Winn Parish, settling in the woods where they improved a good farm and spent the rest of their lives, Mr. Phillips dying in 1858, and the mother in 1880. He was a mechanic and lumberman, and after the organization of Winn Parish was a police juror of the same until his death. His father. Capt. Thomas Phillips, was bora in Barnald District, S. C, in 1772. and died there about 1837, a mechanic by trade. His father. William Micager Phillips, of French descent, came to America and took part in the Revolutionary War. afterward settling in South Carolina.

The mother's father, John Hatcher, was born in Virginia, but prior to the Revolutionary War went with his parents to Edgefield District, S. C., where he spent his declining years, engaged in tilling the soil. Benjamin H. Phillips is the youngest of nine sons and six daughters, two sons and four daughters now living, and was reared in the wilds of Winn Parish with but little schooling.

In 1863, when but seventeen years of age, he joined Company D, Twelfth Louisiana Infantry, and became a member of the Army of Tennessee, and for some time fought, at, Resaca. Ga., in all the engagements to Atlanta, Ga., and back with Hood as far as Tuscumbia, Ala., where be was taken sick and spent about two months in the hospital. Upon recovering he joined Johnston's army in North Carolina, and surrendered with him at Greensboro, N. C., afterward returning home. He attended school for some time, then turned his attention to farming, and in 18(55) was married to Miss Nancy, daughter of Allen and Mary Wheeler, who were born, reared and married in Georgia, and about 1842 removed to what is now Winn Parish, afterward to Tyler County, Tex., and back to Natchitoches Parish, La., where his wife died during the war. In 1876 Mr. Wheeler went back to the Lone Star State, dying there the same year. Mrs. Phillips was born in Winn Parish, and by Mr. Phillips became the mother of three sons and four daughters, one of the former being deceased.

 Mr. Phillips has been engaged in saw-milling nearly all his life, having built and operated several mills. in 1888 be built his present mill, which is a saw-mill, planer and grist-mill combined. In addition to (his he owns 1,600 acres of fine land, 1,000 acres of which are pine land, and the rest river bottom land and very fertile. This property has been acquired by his own efforts during the last eight years, a fact that speaks louder than words can do as to his business ability, intelligence and perseverance.

Joseph M. Plunkett has met with success in the calling of a planter, owing to his desire to keep out of the beaten path and to his industry and good management. He was born in Guinnette County, Ga., in 1824, his parents, Richard and Lavinia (Mason) Plunkett, being born in North Carolina and Edgefield District, S. C. respectively, their marriage taking place in the latter State in 1820. From there they moved to Georgia about 1821, and in 1857 came to what is now Grant Parish, where Mr. Plunkett died in 1858, and his widow the following year, both having been Methodists for many years. He was a mechanic, for a short time was in the War of 1812. and was a son of James Plunkett, who died a farmer of Georgia. The father of the latter worked his way from Ireland to the United States when a young man and took up his abode in Georgia. James Mason, the maternal grandfather, died in South Carolina, a farmer. Joseph M. Plunkett is the younger of two brothers, James L. dying during the Rebellion at Alexandria. The former attended the common schools, and when twenty-one years old began the battle of life for himself, being married in Alabama in 1846 to Sarah, daughter of Mason and Elizabeth Day, the former a native of South Carolina, and the latter of Georgia, their deaths occurring in Perry and Coosa Counties, Ala., respectively. Mrs. Plunkett died in the month of March, 1888, a worthy member of the Methodist Church, after having borne a family of eight Children, three sons and five daughters living, all residents of Grant Parish. She was bora in Perry County, Ala., and was a lady whom all esteemed, admired and respected. In 1856 Mr. Plunkett came to Alexandria, and the next year to where he now lives, settling in the woods, but, until he could erect a house he and his family lived in a tent.

For a few years just prior to the war he lived near Montgomery for the purpose of educating his children, and is now one of the oldest settlers of this section. He has spent a number of years as a carpenter and blacksmith, and socially is a member of the A. F. & A. M. He has long been a Methodist.

Col. E. G. Randolph, planter, Fairmount, La. South Carolina has given, to Grant Parish many estimable citizens, but she has contributed none more highly respected, or for conscientious discharge of duty in every relation of life, more worthy of respect and esteem, than the subject of this sketch. Col. Randolph was born in Fairfield District, in 1829, and is a son of Beverly H. and Marie (Bulephant) Randolph, natives of Virginia, the former born in New Kent, and the latter in Norfolk, Va. The father was a cabinet-maker by trade, and carried this on in South Carolina until 1855, when he moved to Bossier Parish, La., and settled near Red River. The mother received her final summons in the Palmetto State. Col. E. G. Randolph was reared in his native State, received his education in Mount Zion College, and has also read law and studied medicine. After finishing his education, he began speculating in real estate, and otherwise, and in connection was also engaged in merchandising for some time in South Carolina.

In 1852 he emigrated to Bossier Parish, La., bought land there the following year, and there made his home until 1875, when he came to Grant Parish, where he has since resided. He is the owner of 1,000 acres of land on Red River, but his principal farming interest is back on the Bayou, four miles west of the river, where he has 3,000 acres. During the Mexican War he was in the Palmetto Regiment, South Carolina Volunteers, as a non-commissioned officer, and served all through that war. He was with Gen. Scott at Vera Cruz, and in fact was in all the engagements in which his famous regiment participated. Early in 1861, Col. Randolph organized the first company in Bossier Parish, was made captain of the same, and on the organization of the Ninth Regiment of Louisiana Infantry, he was made lieutenant-colonel, and later colonel. He was in Virginia with his regiment, when he received the commission of colonel, and the balance of the time he was stationed at Shreveport. He was paroled on June 8, 1865.

While in the Mexican War, the Colonel was clerk of the regiment, and was color guard. He was tendered the thanks of the State of South Carolina, and presented with a silver medal for his gallantry and bravery on the field of battle, being wounded at the battle of Churubusco. On the establishment of the Nicholls Government, in 1877, he represented Grant Parish for two years in the General Assembly. Previous to the war, in 1854, he was married to Miss Mary E. Thompson, a native of South Carolina, and to them were born nine children, five of whom survive: Edward H. (an attorney at Shreveport, La.), E. L. (a physician at Alexandria, La.), John (a planter in Grant Parish), Beverly H. (in New Orleans), and Sallie G. (at home). Col. Randolph is both a Mason and an Odd Fellow, and in politics is an uncompromising Democrat. He comes of a good old fighting stock, his grandfather, William Randolph, having been a colonel of a Virginia Regiment, in the Revolutionary War, and his father a soldier in the War of 1812. The Colonel himself, as has been seen, has not been backward in that direction. The Randolph family is of English descent, and on the Bulephant side the Colonel is of French ancestry. His grandfather, Bulephant, came from France with French soldiers,, to take part in the Revolution.

Judge W. L. Richardson, planter, Colfax, La. No name is justly entitled to a more enviable place in the history of Grant Parish than the one which heads this sketch, for it is borne by a man who has been usefully and honorably identified with the interests of this parish, and with its advancement in every worthy particular. He was born in Livingston Parish, La., on December 19, 1831, and is a son of Moses B. and Asenath (Dismukes) Richardson, natives, also, of Louisiana. The paternal grandparents were among the early settlers of Louisiana, and the grandfather was a successful planter. Soma of the ancestors of the Richardson family were in the War of 1812.

Moses B. Richardson was parish surveyor of St. Helena for about thirty years, and was also a planter and mechanic. He died in Rapides and his wife in Grant Parish. They were the parents of four children, who lived to maturity: Sylvester E. was a lieutenant in the Civil War, and died at Baton Rouge during the war; he was captured at Port Hudson and died while on his way from prison. The others, in order of birth, are named as follows; W. L., AV. B. and Lillie A. E. Judge W. L. Richardson was reared in St. Helena, received his education there, and in 1855 removed to Rapides Parish, where he made his home until the creation of Grant Parish, in 1869, He was the first man to locate at Colfax after its organization, and he has resided in this parish ever since. He was judge of the same for some time, was also parish treasurer for about eight, or ten years, and was treasurer of the school board for same time. He owns about 1,000 acres of land, and has about 200 acres under cultivation. In 1802 he enlisted in Company C. Twenty-seventh Louisiana Regiment, and served until 1804, when he was elected recorder of Rapides Parish, and so he was discharged, returning home to take care of his office. He was captured at the fall of Vicksburg, but was paroled and sent home. The Judge was married in 1879 to Miss Elizabeth Christian, by whom he has two children: Robert W. and Zachariah A. The Judge is a member of the Farmers' Union, is president of Colfax Union No. 104, and is one of the trustees and stockholders of the Commercial Association of Farmers. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity, having advanced as high as the Royal and Select Master degrees. He is also at present the parish superintendent of public schools and ex-officio secretary of the school board. He and Mrs. Richardson are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church South, and he has been president of the board of trustees in the church for a number of years.

Capt. Francis Marion Sharp was born in Union County, S. C , in 1825, but since 1854 has been a resident of Louisiana. He is the second of two sous and two daughters born to James and Lavina (Giles, whose mother was a Mitchell) Sharp, who were born, reared, married and spent their lives in Union County, S. C, being well-to-do farmers, and in their religious views members of the Presbyterian Church. The grandfather, William Sharp, was born of English parents and died in South Carolina. The mother's father, John Giles, was in all probability born in that State and died in Union County, a farmer. Capt. P. M. Sharp is the only one of his father's family now living; he received a moderate school education in the country schools. When he was about eight years of age his father died, and at the age of twenty he began doing for himself, managing his mother's farm, which he continued to do for four years.

He then went to Alabama, thence to Georgia and in 1854 to Arkansas, coming the same year to Louisiana. Here he was married in 1859 in Natchitoches Parish to Martha Ann, daughter of Isaac Carradine (who was born in Mississippi, married in Texas and served as a soldier throughout the Texas War against Mexico and died in Natchitoches Parish, La., where he and his wife, M. E. Carradine, were staying a short time for their health). Mrs. Sharp was born in Sabine County, Tex., and has borne Mr. Sharp seven children, three sons and two daughters now living. The Captain resided in Natchitoches Parish, until 1860, then came to Montgomery, where he was in business for a few years, but since the war has managed his present plantation of 600 acres, of which 125 are cleared and under cultivation, all having been earned by his own efforts. In 1802 he joined Capt. Hardy's company, Twenty-eighth Louisiana Infantry, as second lieutenant, and after serving for a short time in camp in Northern Louisiana he resigned his position and came home, where he and some others raised a company and entered the Louisiana State service, in which he held the rank of first lieutenant, being afterward promoted to captain. He has been constable and deputy sheriff of Grant Parish, and is a member of Montgomery Lodge No. 168 of the A. F. & A. M., himself and wife being worthy members of the Baptist Church. Patrick H. Smith is accounted a prosperous agriculturist of Grant Parish, La., and like the majority of native North Carolinians, he is progressive in his views and of an energetic temperament.

He was born in Robinson County in 1831, to Daniel and Susan (Brown) Smith, they being also natives of that county. The father was born in 1768. In 1835 he removed to Talladega County, Ala., where he died in 1855, and his wife in 1876, both members of the Presbyterian Church, the former a farmer by occupation. He was tax collector of that county for two years, and was a son of Patrick Smith, a Revolutionary soldier of Scotch descent, who lived and died in North Carolina. The mother's father was Hugh Brown. Patrick H. Smith is the fifth of eight sous and three, daughters, and although reared to a farm life, he succeeded in obtaining a good common-school education. At the age of twenty-one years he began teaching school, an occupation he continued to follow until the opening of the Rebellion. In 1857 he came to Jackson Parish, and in 1861 joined Company G, Twenty-fifth Alabama Infantry, Army of Tennessee, and was in the fights of Shiloh, Murfreesboro. Chickamauga, Missionary Ridge and Atlanta, where he was wounded and subsequently sent to retired camp, Lauderdale Springs, Miss., where he received his papers retiring him from the army.

 At that time he held the rank of sergeant. After the war he resumed teaching for one year in Alabama, then returned to Louisiana, and was married in Grant. Parish, in 1872, to Mrs. Mary Smith, a daughter of John William Huthmance, a native of England, who merchandised in Pope County, Ark., taught school in Shiloh and Vienna, La., and was editing a paper at Winnfield, La., at the time of his death. Mrs. Smith was also born in England, and her union with Mr. Smith has resulted in the birth of three sons and one daughter. Since the war they have resided on their present farm of 160 acres, Mrs. Smith being the owner of 108 acres of land. Mr. Smith is an industrious and honorable gentleman, and all whom he knows respect and esteem him. He is a member of the Farmers' Union.

C. H. Teal, merchant, Colfax, La. Among the enterprising business houses of this town, whose operations are worthy of record in a work of this kind, is that of Mr. C. H. Teal, who is classed among the first-class merchants of Colfax. He was born in Natchitoches Parish, La., in 1851, and his parents, John and Amelia (Barlow) Teal, were natives of Louisiana. Their paternal ancestors emigrated to Louisiana from Tennessee at an early day, probably about 1828, and located in Natchitoches Parish. The paternal grandfather located there about the same time and owned the Tessier place in 1850 as it now stands. He followed planting up to 1800, when he sold out and engaged in merchandising, which he carried on until his death. John Teal, father of our subject, emigrated to Texas in 1855, selling his plantation and slaves, and moved to Refugio County, Tex., where he bought wild land. He has since been engaged in the stock business, and still resides there, being considered one of the big stock men of the Lone Star State. To his marriage have been born nine children, eight, of whom are living at the present time. The first death that occurred in the Teal family was in 1885, when John H., son of C. H. Teal, received his final summons. The family then numbered over forty persons. C. H. Teal, the eldest of the nine children born to his parents, was principally reared in Texas, and educated in the common schools of that State. The portion of the State they were then living in was for the most, part prairie land, and neighbors were few and far between. In 1875 C. H. Teal located in Grant Parish, engaged in planting, and also established a stock depot on Lillie Bend plantation, which he carried on in connection with planting until 1880.

He then moved to Colfax and became sheriff of Grant, Parish, under the new constitution, holding the position for four years. At that time there was some feeling among the parishes forming that district, as to which parish was entitled to the nomination. Mr. Teal consented to be put up by (his) Grant Parish in the contest, all delegates having withdrawn from the convention, and each parish run its own favorite son. He was then put up for the Senate, but was defeated by thirty-six votes. He has been in the mercantile business since 1880 and has an extensive and lucrative, trade. He is also the owner of 350 acres of alluvial hind on Red River, adjacent to the town of Colfax, and has 1,000 acres of fine pinery. He is now engaged in stock farming, and has a line pasture.

Ho started the hay enterprise in Grant. Parish, which he finds very lucrative. In fact Mr. Teal is one of the leading men of this section of the State, and is identified with all its public enterprises. Ho was married in 1875 to Miss Cora McLaCour, by whom be has two daughters: Mary and Louise. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity, having joined that organization in Rockport, Tex. Albert G. Thompson, a prominent citizen and extensive planter on Red River, is a native of Louisiana, his birth occurring in Pointe Coupee Parish, October 14, 1848, and is the son of A. B. and Isabella (Gayle) Thompson, natives of Mississippi and Louisiana, respectively. They are now living and the father is a successful planter, although he lost heavily by the war, having his cotton burnt and his slaves taken away. He came to Louisiana about, 1840, and has been a resident of that State ever since.

He is now seventy-six years of age and the mother ten years younger. Albert G. Thompson is one of the three children born to his parents: Mrs. Alice Lombard is the widow of J. C. Lombard, and Mrs. Mary Wilcox resides in West Feliciana Parish. La., and is the wife of George Wilcox, a successful agriculturist of that parish. Albert G. Thompson became a soldier in the Confederate Army, in March, 1862, enlisting in the Pointe Coupee Battery, at Port Pillow, Tenn., find continued to serve in the artillery till the close of the war, May, 1865. He received a good education in St. Mary's College, Kentucky, and supplemented the same by au attendance at Washington and Lee College, Virginia, where he remained until in the senior class. At the time he commenced to teach school in West Feliciana Parish, where he remained a few months, and then taught in Alexandria one session. After this he came to Grant Parish, La., bought 1,200 acres of land which was then unimproved, and immediately commenced making improvements. He has been industrious and saving and is now in very comfortable circumstances. Everything about his place indicates to the beholder the presence of a thrifty and enterprising owner. Mr. Thompson is a Democrat in his political principles, and is one of the county's best citizens.

William J. Tison, a representative citizen of Ward No. 2, Grant Parish, was born in Rapides Parish, La. (now Grant Parish), on August 15, 1840, and is the son of William and Sarah (Roe) Tison, natives of Georgia and Louisiana, respectively. The father was bora in 1812, and was but six years of age when he came to Louisiana with his father, William Tison, who made his advent into this State in 1818. The father of our subject was a rafts man on Black and Little Rivers for many years. He died in 1863. The mother was born in 1825 and died in 1865. Both were members of the Methodist Episcopal Church South, and he was a Democrat in his political views. Six children were the fruits of their union: Rosanna A., Sarah Eliza, Neoma, Job H., Susan and William J. The latter secured a fair education in Grant Parish, La., and when yet a boy, or in 1864, he enlisted in the Twenty-seventh Louisiana Infantry, Company F, in which he served until the close of the war. Afterward he commenced to work for himself as a farmer, and this has been his chosen calling ever since. He has been unusually successful, and is the owner of 1,400 acres of land in this parish and 200 acres in Rapides Parish, 300 acres in Grant Parish being under cultivation. For twelve years he was a member of the police jury, tilling that important position with satisfaction to all. In 1865 he was wedded to Miss Elizabeth La Croix of Rapides Parish, who died in 1874.

She was the mother of six children, two now living: Euretta (wife of John Rice, a farmer of Grant Parish), and James E. (at home); William W. (died at the age of thirteen), and the remainder died while quite young. In December, 1874, Mr. Tison married Miss Laura E. Salctus of Grant Parish, and they are the parents of eight children, five now living: Laura O., Maude, Alice, Armor and William W. Mr. Tison is a Democrat in politics, and aims to support men of principle. He and Mrs. Tison are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church South.

Typing and Format by C. W. Barnum
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