Louisiana AHGP

Part of the American History and Genealogy Project

Reuben L. Oakes

Reuben L. Oakes is in every sense of the word a self-made man, for the property which he now has, has been acquired by his own exertions since starting out in life for himself. He was born in this parish in 1802, to Reuben Oakes, a native of Alabama, who came to Claiborne Parish in 1849, a more complete record of whom is given in the sketch of John L. Oakes. Reuben L. has resided all his life in this parish, and his first knowledge of the "three R's" was acquired in the common schools. He was always diligent, and improved his opportunities to the utmost, becoming a well-informed young man. When he had attained his twenty-first birthday he united his fortunes with that of Miss Ida Bridgeman, of Homer, and began his career as a planter, his capital at that time being very meager indeed. He did not, become discouraged when obstacles presented themselves, but continued to steadily pursue the "even tenor of his way," and the magnificent plantation, which consists of 1,100 acres of land, which he now owns, is the result of hard and persistent toil, and shows what a young man of intelligence, energy and progressive views can accomplish when he so desires.

In 1888 he established a mill, which he has conducted with remarkable success in connection with planting up to the present day. The most of his broad acres are cleared, and a goodly portion under cultivation, the annual income from the same being large. The admirable manner in which everything is kept about his place shows that a man of sound judgment and unswerving energy is at the helm, and here, where he has always lived, his many estimable qualities have acquired for him a popularity not derived from any factitious circumstances, but a permanent and spontaneous tribute to his merit.

He and his wife have two bright and interesting children: Guy and Daisy. He is a Democrat in his views, and at all times supports the men of that party.

Biographical Sketches| Claiborne Parish

Source: Biographical and Historical Memoirs of Northwest Louisiana, Southern Publishing Company, 1890