Full text of "History of Clinch County, Georgia, revised to date, giving the early history of the county down to the present time (1916): also complete lists of county officers, together with minor officers and also sketches of county officers' lives; with chapters on the histories of old families of Clinch County; also other information as is historical in its nature, comp. and ed. by Folks Huxford"

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F
. CI ^j^

I OF ■ )

History

Clinch County, Georgia

Revised to Date

Giving the early history of the County down to the

present time ( 1916) ; also complete lists of County

Officers, together with minor officers and

also sketches of County Officers' Lives;

with chapters on the histories of

old families of Clinch County ;

also other information as

is historical in its

nature

Compiled and Edited by
FOLKS HUXFORD

1916

The J. W. Burke Company

Macon. Georgia

Foreword

IN the Fair Southland, fanned by the gentle sea breeze, musical
with the song of the pines, where plenty of peace and con-
tentment abound, no more favored section can be found
than Clinch County. What hidden treasures, what immense pos-
sibilities yet undeveloped, she oJBfers to all who diligently seek
them here! Her wealth lies not in mineral deposits, nor great
water power, but in a salubrious climate, pure water, a fertile
soil capable of the highest state of cultivation, good ranges for
live stock, timbered lands, and a people than whom no better
can be found anywhere in all our fair land. Many adverse cir-
cumstances have retarded the development of the natural re-
sources of the County, but the sun of a better day has already
risen for her, and is scattering the mists before it and flooding
the land with the rays of hope and prosperity.

PREFAC E

N the preparation and compiling of this book, containing the histoty

of Clinch County, I have dohe so with an eye single to the welfare

of the County, a true exposition of the County and its history, and with

the hope that in years to come it may, in the absence of any other book

on the subject, be a reference book of Clinch County and her people.

There are many details given in the following pages, which will, to the
reader on first thought, appear to be superfluous and unnecessary, but
the author recognizes the fact that details are often necessary td a com"
plete unden^tanding and an exhaustive review of a subject* I have
endeavored to resist the temptation to extenuate, and the reader will
pardon the authof if it becomes wearisome in reading this book because
of so many minor details given.

A word in explanation of some of the chapters:

In Chapter I, also in Chapter XIII, much is said concerning Irwin,
Lowndes, Appling and Ware Counties, but the authoi- is of the opinion
that this is necessary as it relates to the early history of this County
before its formation.

In Chapter II, and in Chapter III, extended remarks are made on the
earUer settlers of the County. This data is based on information gathered
from descendants of these settlers and from other parties. I would not
have the reader think that the settlers named in this connection, were
the only ones living here at the time; far from that.

In Chapter V is given information as to the soldiers who served in the

Confederate Army from Clinch County. The author does not vouch for

the correctness of all of this information, as it was by the merest chance

^' and the hardest of investigating and inqtdry, that these names were

^ Lq obtained. The names were given mostly by survivors now living of these

companies, and the list 6f officers and men in each company will not be
found complete, due to the obvious impossibility of the recollection of so
many names that far back.
^ In regards to Chapter VIII, treating on educational subjects, it was

Q very difficult to obtain what information is given as the author had no

acce^ t6 the old minutes of the Board of Education further back than

6 Preface

1892. The information given is chiefly from the different acts of the
Legislature right after the war, and from scattered papers in the Ordi-
nary's office, while the list of members of the Board of Education is taken
from the Grand Jury presentments.

In presenting church history and family histories, the author has
endeavored to be as correct, fair and authentic as possible. In the prep-
aration of family histories, only a few are given, such as the larger fam-
ilies of Clinch County, although the ancestry of a few others are given,
which reach very far back.

The author offers no apology for the extensive chapter on the lives of
Clinch County's officers. I believe this will form a valuable addition to
this book, especially to a future generation. I believe that unless this
information is given, those who follow after us will look back on the
official list of county officers, and ask "Who was this officer? I never
heard of him and do not know any of his people." This question is true
to-day for I have been unable to find out anything about some of our
earlier officers.

Also I believe that the appended lists of minor officers, such as district
road commissioners, jury commissioners, justices of the peace, etc., will
be found interesting.

I have been hampered in this undertaking by more than one obstacle.
This is an undertaking never before undertaken in this County. I have
found some people very skeptical about the idea of writing a history of
our County. I have found some who are wholly indifferent to the past.
I was also hampered by the loss of our court-house records which go no
further back than 1867, and many of the books and records for many years
after then were very poorly kept.

The author has devoted a great deal of his time for the last two or
three years to this undertaking, and has endeavored to eliminate all mis-
takes, but this is very near impossible. Without the kind assistance of
the following named patriotic citizens, I do not believe I could have com-
piled this work. To them I am deeply grateful for their sympathy and
help. I refer to the following residents of Clinch County:

James R. Dickerson, Argyle; Charlton H. Smith, Homerville; W. H.
Chauncey, Lyken ; Lee L. DuPont, DuPont ; Moses Tomlinson, Stockton ;
John G. Griffis, Argyle; Ezekiel Mathis, DuPont; Mrs. Seward Smith,

Preface 7

Homerville; Mrs. Elizabeth E. Gary, Homerville; Irwin Corbitt, Pearson,
R. P. D. ; Bankston E. Mattox and wife, Homerville ; John J. Drawdy,
Homerville; R. G. Dickerson, Homerville; James B. Cornelius, Homer-
ville; Mrs. Nancy Griffis, Lyken; P. M. Lee, DuPont, and Mrs. H. A.
Mattox, Argyle.

Out of the County residents:

Judge J. L. Sweat, Waycross; Joseph E. Bass, Kissimmee, Pla.; Mrs.
P. D. Clifton, Hahira; Lucian L. Knight, Atlanta; Mrs. M. S. Corbitt,
Pearson; George A. Dame, Inverness, Fla.; Mrs. B. P. Jones, Valdosta;
Mrs. Mary A. Ray, Ray City ; J. G. King, Arcadia, Pla. ; Mrs. A. J. Caswell,
Jacksonville, Fla.; Mrs. R. F. Laslie, Tarver; John L. Morgan, Lakeland,
Fla.; Perry G. Ramsey, Gainesville, Fla.; John L. Smith, Screven; Jona-
than O'Steen, Kirkland; Mrs. Sherod Smith, Tampa, Fla.; W. P. Smith,
Nacogdoches, Texas; C. Strickland, Valdosta; N. A. Sirmans, Milledge-
ville; S. C. Townsend, St. Marys; W. H. Tucker, Bradentown, Fla.; D. C.
Carmichael, Manor ; and "The Valdosta Times," Valdosta, the last named
of which I had access to their files dating back to 1868; and Mrs. J. N.
Griffin, Valdosta.

Besides these, there are numerous others, which space forbids me to
name.

POLKS HUXPORD.

Homerville, Ga.,

July, 1916.

History of Clinch County^ Georgia

CHAPTER L

Ceding of the Lands Which Now Comprise Clinth
County. — Origin of Appling County. — Origin of Irwin
County. — Origin of War^ County.— Origin of Lowndes
County.— First Settlers.— Primitive Condition. — Indian
Troubles.— Growth of the County. — "Olden Times."—-
Land Grants.

THE lands which now comprise Clinch County, were
ceded by the Indians by a treaty made at Fort Jackson,
in the western part of this State, August 9th, 18 14.
There was no stipulated sum paid for the land, this being the
only cession of lands by the Indians which the government
did not have to pay for. This treaty was the culmination of
a war caused by Indian outrages, which had been raging for
about three years. General Andrew Jackson's crowning vie*
tory over them at Horse-Shoe Bend on the Tallapoosa River
in Alabama, caused them to sue for peace and tne treaty of
Fort Jackson was the result. Besides the lands ceded which
lie now in Clinch County, other territory was ceded out of
which about twenty counties in South Georgia have since been
made.

ORIGIN OF APPLING COUNTY.

Four years after the treaty was made, Appling County
was created by an Act of the Legislature approved December
1 5th, 1 8 1 8. This county took in not only what is now Clinch
County, but also Ware, Coffee and parts of several other
counties. At the same time Irwin County was created. Two
years later the first election for county officers was held in
Appling County. The following were elected: William
Carter, sheriff; John Bailey, Clerk of the Superior Court;

lo History of Clinch County, Georgia

James Mixon, coroner and Daniel S. Whitehurst, surveyor.
Appling County was named for Col. Daniel Appling, a noted
soldier of the Revolution.

ORIGIN OF IRWIN COUNTY.

Irwin County was created at the same time Appling
County was, and was named in honor of Governor Jared
Irwin, of this State. The first county officers were not com-
missioned until 1820. Originally the line between Irwin and
Appling Counties, extended along the line dividing the sev-
enth and twelfth land districts of Ware County from the
tenth and eleventh land districts of Irwin County. This
caused most of the present Mud Creek district to be in Irwin
County, as was also the Stockton district.

ORIGIN OF WARE COUNTY.

Ware County was created by an Act of the Legislature ap-
proved December 15th, 1824. It was created out of lands
theretofore situated in Appling County, and was named for
Hon. Nicholes Ware, a United States Senator from this
State. Early in the year 1825 an election was held in the new
county for Justices of the Inferior Court, which at this time
had charge of all county matters. The following justices
were elected and were commissioned March 2nd, 1825 : Wil-
liam Smith, Solomon Hall, John L. Stewart, Jr., Philemon
Bryan and Absalom Thomas. The election for county of-
ficers was not held until the next year, when the following
were elected : William G. Henderson, sheriff ; Joseph Bryan,
clerk of the Superior and Inferior Courts ; Zachariah Davis,
surveyor, and Joshua Sharpe, coroner. At the same time
that the Justices of the Inferior Court were elected in 1825,
Philemon Bryan was elected the first State Senator from
Ware County, while John L. Stewart was elected the first
representative.

^•~*\

History of Clinch County, Georgia 1 1

ORIGIN OF LOWNDES COUNTY.

By an Act of the Legislature approved December 23rd,
1825, Lowndes County was created. This county was cre-
ated from lands formerly in Irwin County, which extended to
the line dividing the tenth and eleventh land districts of Irwin
from the seventh, twelfth and thirteenth land districts of
Ware or formerly Appling. The new county was named
for Hon. William L. Lowndes, a distinguished statesman of
South Carolina. The first county officers were commissioned
May 29th, 1826, and were: William Hancock, sheriff; Sam-
uel M. Clyatt, surveyor; Henry Blair, clerk of the Superior
and Inferior Courts; and Malachi Monk, coroner. The
first State Senator from Lowndes was William A. Knight,
while the first representative was Jonathan Knight, a notable
instance of father and son being first representatives of a new
county in legislative halls.

FIRST SETTLERS.

The first settlers in what is now Clinch County, that any
authenticity can be vouched for, settled in the Mud Creek dis-
trict, then a part of Irwin County, in December, 1822. They
were John, William, and Moses Tomlinson, brothers ; Josiah
Sirmans, Sr.,, and his sons, and David Johnson. William
Smith, a pioneer minister of the Primitive Baptist Church,
also settled here about the same time, settling on Red Bluff
Creek, then in Appling County. Very soon the Newbems,
O'Steens, and Paffords settled here. Within a few years,
came John Bennett, Benjamin Cornelius, Jeremiah Chancey,
Lawrence Smith and Samuel Register. AH of the families
named are still represented in this county by numerous de-
scendants.

PRIMITIVE CONDITION.

The primitive condition of the county before the whites
became numerous, might easily be imagined. Forests of
giant trees were everywhere, while game was in abundance.

1 2 History of Clinch County, Georgia

Indians roamed here and there with no permanent habita-
tion. No such timber as could be found then can now be
found. It has fell under the chopper's ax and has been the
source of much profit and occupation.

At the time Ware and Lowndes Counties were created,
this part was very sparsely settled^ Settlers were few and
Indians were many. Gradually the country grew, but it was
not until the advent of the Atlantic & Gulf Railroad, just
before the Civil War, that any progress was visible outside of
the increasing population. In the absence of railroads, paths
and community roads were used. In the course of time, a
stage road was opened through from Waresboro by Mag*
nolia and into Lowndes County, while another stage road
reached from Troupville, in Lowndes, through Mud Creek
and connected with the road to Waresboro.

The oldest militia district in the county is the 586th,
known as Mud Creek. From the records at Atlanta it is
found that Hudson Tillery and James O. White were com-
missioned Justices of the Peace in this district, February 10th,
1829. It was at that time a part of Ware County, and
reached up into Coffee County.

INDIAN TROtJBlES.

Troubles with the Indians began to take definite shape
about 1836. It seems that the trouble originated in the
State of Alabama on Terrapin Creek, and was caused by the
efforts of the Creeks to join the Seminoles in Florida, who
were about to take up the hatchet. The war lasted for about
two or three years, when practically all the Indians in Geor*
gia were deported to the West.

During these troublous times, the whites built a fort about
two miles north of Cane Creek and about six miles northeast
of where Homerville now is. It covered about two acres
of ground and was built by picketing pine poles about twenty
feet long in the ground, side by side until an inclosure was
made. These were braced together and made as impreg-

History of Clinch County, Georgia 13

nable as possible. Inside, small houses were built and the
fort was otherwise made as much a home as possible for the
refugees. The settlers also had a place of rendezvous at the
home of Benjamin Sirmans in the Mud Creek district. Set-
tlers would often make their clearings as near the forts or
places of safety as possible in anticipation of any expected
attack by the Indians.

Several expeditions were made against the Indians as far
down as the Suwannee River and the Florida line. Tom
Fulwood, a member of one of the expeditions, was killed on
one of the expeditions, and scalped by the Indians. His
body was recovered by his companions and buried some three
or four miles from where Henry Lee now lives in this county.

There were several companies of volunteers organized in
this section for service against the Indians. A company of
"scouts" headed by Captain Knowles did valiant service in
this war ; also companies under Captain John J. Johnson, an
Englishman, and Captain John J. North, who subsequently
became a citizen of Clinch, saw much service. • Towards the
AUapaha River, Captain Levi J. Knight commanded the
pioneer troops as major and colonel.

The following narrative of an engagement with the In-
dians, is given on authority of Mr. Bryan J. Roberts, a
wealthy pioneer citizen of Lowndes County, which is corrob-
orated by others :

"Some time in the fall of 1836, a squad of Indians raided
the home of Mr. William Parker, not far from where Mill-
town now is. They carried his feather beds out in the yard,
cut them open, emptied the feathers and appropriated the
ticks. They also robbed him of provisions, clothing and
money in the sum of $308. Captain Levi J. Knight, in
whose command Mr. Roberts was, was soon on trail of the
squad and overtook them near the AUapaha River, not far
from the Gaskins mill-pond. The sun was just rising when
the gallant company opened fire on the savages. A lively
fight ensued, soon terminating in the utter rout of the Indians,

14 History of Clinch County, Georgia

who threw their guns and plunder into the river and jumped
in after them. A few were killed and a number wounded.
One Indian was armed with a fine shot-gun; this he threw
into the river. He also tried to throw into the stream a shot-
bag, but it was caught in the limb of a tree and suspended
over the water. Strange to say, it contained Mr. Parker's
money, every cent of which was recovered. The fine shot-gun
was fished out of the river and afterwards sold for $40, a
tremendous price for a gun in those days.

"Having driven the Indians from the dense swamp be-
yond the river. Captain Knight marched his company as
rapidly as possible in the direction of Brushy Creek in the
southwest part of the county (Lowndes). In the distance
they heard a volley of small arms. On arrival, they found
that a battle had already been fought and the volley was only
a last tribute of respect over the grave of a comrade-in-arms,
Pennywell Folsom. Mr. Robert Parrish, who later became
quite prominent and lived near Adel had his arm broken in
this fight. Edwin Henderson was mortally wounded and
died near the battlefield, and there were two others killed.
The Indians lost twenty-two killed, besides a number wounded.
The battle was fought in a swamp where Indian cunning was
pitted against Anglo-Saxon courage, and in five minutes after
the engagement opened, there was not a live redskin to be
seen.

"From this place Captain Knight marched his company
across the AUapaha River into what is now Clinch County.
The Indians after the last engagement had crossed the river
and took a course southeastward to Cow Creek, about three
miles below where Stockton now is. The whites traced them
and found them near the creek. They surprised the savages
at breakfast and the Indians, abandoning what little effects
they had except their guns, hurriedly crossed the "Boggy
Slue" and then went over the creek. The slue which had
been so easy for the Indians to cross, delayed the whites, but
finally crossing it they caught up with the Indians on the other

History of Clinch County, Georgia 15

side of the creek, where a short engagement occurred. Bill
Daugharty had his horse shot from under him in this en-
gagement by a very large Indian, and just as the Indian was
about to fire at him, Mr. Daugharty shot the Indian. The
Indian's body was not found until after the engagement was
over, when it was found in some bushes. In this short en-
gagement three Indians were killed and five made prisoners.
No whites were killed, but Mr. Barzilla Staten was danger-
ously wounded from which he afterwards recovered."

Captain Knowles' company assisted in driving the last
Indian from the great Okefinokee Swamp, and camped on one
of the islands in the swamp for about three months,
leaving the swamp only for provisions. A narrative is given
on authority of Mr. Jesse Smith, who was in Captain
Knowles' company, in which Mr. Smith relates an adventure
with the savages. It was as follows:

After the company had lost trail of a party of Indians
whom they were hunting, Mr. Smith was in the lead of the
whites that night. The night was very dark, and after hav-
ing searched all day the search was almost given up, when
in the grass not ten steps ahead, Mr. Smith saw the fire
sparkle from the old flint and steel rifle, and he knew that
they were in the midst of the Indians. The Indian's gun
failed to fire and they saw it was a hand-to-hand battle in the
darkness. Before Mr, Smith had time to move, the Indian
sprang up and threw his arms around the horse's neck and
held on. The fight seemed to be between the horse and the
Indian, when the horse finally became so frightened that he
dashed away. The horse ran until the clinging Indian was
forced to give it up, and when Mr. Smith got his wits to-
gether again he was miles away from his companions, with
both hands clinched in the horse's mane. Then he had a task
to find his comrades, which he did just about daylight.

The great Okefinokee Swamp served as a place of refuge
for the Indians during this war, and here they hid them-
selves when hard pressed. General Charles R. Floyd made

1 6 History of Clinch County, Georgia

an expedition against the savages in the swamp and drove
them totally out of the swamp and into Florida. It had always
been a mystery to the whites how the Indians were able to
exist under circumstances of the most adverse character in
the swamp, until one day an entrance to the "cow-house,"
an elevated fertile island, was discovered by the scouts of
General Floyd's army. Through an opening the Indians
had driven a number of small, black cattle, which was found
to be so numerous in this section when the whites first settled
here. This solved the mystery, and the island has since
been known as Floyd's Island.

In 1838 fourteen thousand Indians were conveyed to lands
beyond the Mississippi River, and after this the county
enjoyed comparative peace from Indian troubles. It was very
seldom after this that an Indian was seen.

GROWTH OF THE COUNTY.

After the Indian trouble ceased, this section began to grow.
The citizens began to widen out their farms, settlement
roads were made, new settlers came and several churches
were organized.

The only way in that day to get produce to market centers
was to carry it in great caravans of wagons and carts drawn
by oxen. The people of the community through which it
passed would often load their produce or marketable stuff
on these wagons and carts, giving the owner a part of the
proceeds to carry it to market. A stage road which was
built about this time from Holmesville in Appling County,
to Troupville iii Lowndes County, served as the principle
highway. The principal person to engage in this business
was James C. Smith, a wealthy pioneer citizen. He would
often make Darien his destination, although Savannah and
other ports were reached occasionally. The slow trip would
consume as much as two or three months sometimes. In re-
turning the wagons would bring such things as were needed
by the settlers in their homes and on the farms.

-6

lift

JOHN C. KIRKLAND

First Clerk of Superior Court of Clinch County.

This picture was taken about 1S50.

History of Clinch County, Georgia 17

Waresboro was then the county seat of Ware County,
and Troupville of Lowndes County. To these places the
people of this section journeyed to attend court and to other
such matters. The stage road led to Waresboro, while an-
other one led to Troupville. The court-house at Waresboro
in those days is described as being a large one-story log house
with two small siderooms as offices; and during court the
jury in a case would go off in the woods nearby in the charge
of a bailiff, to make up their verdict. Since that time, Wares-
boro has decreased to a mere village and Troupville is almost
forgotten, and other cities have arisen to which the county
seat has been moved.

''olden times.''

During those days, the people lived in log houses with
hewn floors and wooden shutters for windows. Everything
bore a distinctly home-made appearance. The main portion
of the people were not rich but a more honest and hospitable
set could not be found. Among the wealthier families would
be found from twenty-five to fifty slaves in each family. The
white families living oftentimes miles apart, were of the
kindliest disposition to each other.

The people of what is now Clinch County, were not rich.
The settlers were plain men, honest and thrifty. Their houses
were simple buildings, situated generally near the few roads
there were. The people did all their work except those who
were fortunate enough to own slaves. Clothes were made of
cloth manufactured by themselves. The women carded the
cotton or wool with hard-cards into small rolls. These rolls
they spun on spinning wheels into thread, which they dyed
whatever colors they desired, and they wove the thread into
cloth on home-made looms. Such looms and spinning-wheels
have disappeared from usage and almost from existence al-
though one is occasionally found in the homes of the people
of Clinch County where it is kept as a relic of the past, and
an object of curiosity to the young.

1 8 History of CBuck Ctmutj, Georgis

As has been said, tbe houses of the settlers were generally
bmh: of logs and had but one room, tbe ioor of which was
made of split logs with tbe faces smoothed by an ax or
hatrhfr. There were no lamps and candles war not often
used. Blazing pine-knots in tbe fire-place generally served
both f CM- light and heat. In tbe sansmcr season tbe peopk
would go to bed early, almost with tbe coming of darkness,
and in dus way save building a hot fire for light and abo
to escaq>e tbe mosquitoes. Likewise they rose early in tbe
morning with tbe ^lireak <^ day,*^ often before da^igfat, aiMi
b^an tbe day^s work. The diildrcn of tbe family, after
working all day, would at nig|it lie down in front of tbe pine-
knot fire and learn to read aiMi write. Many of tbe c^der
citizens of tbe county still vividly remember those days.

Cooking in those days was done in large, open fireplaces
in which was a crane f cm* holding kettles aiMi pots ova- the
fire. When meat was roasted it was roasted on a qift bung
befcHT the fire.

There were no railroads here in those days, and traveling
long <fistances was usually done by means of vehicles called
stage-coaches. The mails were carried in these vehicles. At
certain places were kq>t rdays of horses which tbe drivers of
the stage-coaches used.

ULSD GXANTS.

About that time great areas of land were granted by the
State to ittcfividuals. In idiat is now CEncfa County tbe
lands were s urvey ed about 1822 aiMi cut into squares of 490
acres each, which were later granted by tbe State mder the
lottery system. It was sc4d on an average of five dollars per
lot, and could be paid for by the installment phn, if denred,
— one-fourth down aiMi tbe rest in equal payments. These
lots or squares of land oi 490 acres each, were run into <fis-
tricts, each dEstrict containing ixaok 500 to 650 lots. That is
the present system of defining land m tins county.

Among tk larger land uwn e is who thus acqoored lands in

History of Clinch County, Georgia 19

this county, were Hon. John Forsyth, Sylvanus Hitch, a cit-
izen of Jones County, Elijah Mattox, of Waresboro, Simon
W. Nichols, of Jones County, James D. Shanks, of Lowndes
Coimty, and William Lastinger, of Lowndes.

CHAPTER II.

Early Settlers. — Indian War Soldiers.

A CCORDING to the best available information, the first
/A permanent white settlers in what is now Clinch County
were Josiah Sirmans, Sr., and his family, including his
sons, Benjamin, Joseph, Jonathan and Abner Sirmans; also
Moses, John and William Tomlinson, three brothers, and
David Johnson, afterwards of Indian war fame. These came
here in 1822 and settled near the AUapaha River in Irwin
now Clinch County.

Josiah Sirmans and his family came from Emanuel County.
This early pioneer was born in 1767, and was married to
Miss Artie Hardeman, a daughter of Thomas Hardeman, Sr.
By this marriage he became an uncle of the three Tomlin-
sons named above whose mother was a sister of Mrs. Sir-
mans. He settled in what is now called the Mud Creek dis-
trict, and lived there until his death in 1830. His sons were
Benjamin, Abner and Joseph Sirmans, all of whom became
prominent citizens of the county, while another son, Jonathan
Sirmans, settled in what is now Berrien County, where his
descendants of to-day are quite numerous.

David Johnson was born in 1802 in this State, and his
wife's name was Miss Nancy Burnett. By this marriage he
had nine children, some of them holding county offices of
trust and honor. Mr. Johnson afterwards engaged in the
wars against the Indians and achieved renown. In those wars
he achieved the rank of general, and has since been known as
"General Dave'' Johnson. It is doubtful if Clinch County
ever had a better citizen than this noble man.

Moses, John and William Tomlinson were sons of John
Tomlinson, Sr. They came from Bulloch County and settled
on the AUapaha River in the vicinity of the present town of
Stockton. William was born in 178 1, John in 1784 and

' History of Clinch County, Georgia 21

Moses about 1788. Moses and William Tomlinson married
and had several children and their descendants in Clinch
County to-day are quite numerous. John Tomlinson who set-
tled here, was a cripple from boyhood and could never walk ;
on this account he was better known as "Cripple" John Tom-
linson. By judicious management he became very wealthy
and at his death owned a good many slaves besides much
other property. He is buried at Prospect Church in this
county.

About the next settler to come here was William Smith.
He was bom about 1763, and was a minister of the Prim-
itive Baptist Church. He came here about 1823 and settled
on Red Bluff Creek, where S. A. Lastinger now lives in this
county. He lived here until his death, about 1845. He was
buried at Arabia Church. He was married twice, and among
his sons were John, Jesse, James M., and Manning Smith.

Another old settler was Lawrence Smith, who came from
South Carolina and settled in this section about 1825. He
was married twice and among his sons were John, James C,
David D., William E., Elbert M. T., and Frank Smith, the
latter being a half-brother to the others. Lawrence Smith
died in this county in 1859, ^^^ is buried on his old home
place near Antioch Church.

In 1824 another pioneer moved in, Jeremiah Chancey,
who settled about five miles northwest of where Homerville
now is. He came here from what is now Lowndes County,
where he had previously lived a short while. He was bom
in North Carolina, September 5th, 1782, and married Miss
Elsie O'Steen, who was a cousin of John R. O'Steen. They
had eleven children. Later, Mr. Chancey settled about two
miles northwest of Homerville, on lands now owned by S. L.
Drawdy, where he died January nth, 1861. He was buried
on his home place. His grave is unmarked, resting in an
old field with a few others.

James Pafford also came here about this time. He was the
progenitor of the Pafford family in Clinch County. He was

22 History of Clinch County, Georgia

bom March 19th, 1797, and died in October, 1838. He is
buried at the Fender graveyard, on the AUapaha River.

About 1830, John Bennett, of Sampson County, North
Carolina, settled just above where Stockton now is. He lived
here until his death, about 1851. He married Miss Sallie
Register and by her had eight children. Numerous descend-
ants throughout the county represent this old pioneer. He
was about 80 years old at his death and was buried at Cow
Creek Church.

About the same time (1830), Col. Elijah Mattox settled
at Waresboro, coming there from Tattnall County, where he
was born in 1798. He later settled on the Florida line, just
inside Clinch County. He had extensive land dealings and
was well-known throughout the county, Colonel Mattox was
aide-de-camp to Governor Charles J. McDonald.

About 1833, Benjamin Cornelius settled here, coming from
Pulaski County. He first settled near where Dame's Millpond
now is, later moving to the place now owned by S. D. Find-
ley, near Homerville. Mr. Cornelius was subsequently tax-
receiver of Clinch County for more than twenty years, and
died in 1874.

Jonathan Knight moved from what is now Berrien County
and settled on Suwannoochee Creek in this county in 1836.
He was a native of what is now Berrien, where he was bom
in 1 8 17. He removed back to Berrien County in 1862,
where he subsequently died.

Other early settlers of this section were Barzilla Staten,
Sr., and his sons, James W., Barzilla, Jr., and Quarterman
B. Staten. The elder Staten was wounded in the Indian war
and died about 1845. James W. Staten was the first repre-
sentative from the new county of Clinch, while Quarterman
B. Staten was a captain in the Confederate Army.

John J. North, a native of South Carolina, was another early
settler. He participated in the War of 1 8 1 2, and in the Indian
war, serving as captain in the latter one. He lived here until

History of Clinch County, Georgia 23

his death in 1880. He is buried at the North Cemetery,
above DuPont.

David Stanford was a native of North Carolina, where he
was bom February 3rd, 1799. He came to this section in
the thirties. He lived in the southwestern part of the county.
His wife was Miss Agnes Aiken, by whom he had nine chil-
dren, one of whom, Reubin Y. Stanford, was a captain in the
Confederate Army. David Stanford died in May, 1871.

Other early settlers were Juniper Griffis, Joel and Berry
Griffis and Samuel Griffis. Juniper Griffis was bom in 1808
and lived to be 97 years old. Joel and Berry Griffis were
distant relatives of Juniper Griffis, and lived below Homer-
ville. Samuel Griffis was born in 1807 and married Miss
Naomi Kirkland. The descendants of these men are quite
numerous in the county to-day.

Samuel Register was born in South Carolina in 1786, and
settled here about 1830. He was the progenitor of the Reg-
ister family in this section. He had twelve children, among
them being Guilford, Ivy, David and William Register. This
family has furnished Clinch County many good citizens.
Samuel Register died in 1869. His grandson, S. W. Reg-
ister, was clerk of the Superior Court of Clinch County
fifteen years.

George Hamage came to this section frgm Liberty County
and settled hi the western part of the county. He was born
in 1807, and married Miss Annie Shaw, a daughter of Jerry
Shaw, of Lowndes County. He was a deacon of the Prim-
itive Baptist Church about forty years. He died about 1895.
His descendants are also quite numerous to-day.

Edmund Mathis was a native of North Carolina. To-
gether with his brothers, John and James Mathis, they came
to Bulloch County about 1820, and after living there several
years, they came to this section. Edmund Mathis settled in
what is now Clinch, while the other two settled in Berrien
County. Edmund Mathis was one of the original members
of Cow Creek Church when it was constituted in 1847, ^^^ ^^

24 History of Clinch County, Georgia

Prospect Church, in 1859. His wife, who was Unity Reg-
ister, was also a charter member. Edmund Mathis was com-
missioned justice of the peace of the 66ist district, then of
Lowndes County, November 30th, 1838.

John Mathis, a son of Edmund Mathis, was bom in Bul-
loch County and came with his father to this section about
1830. He served as a justice of the peace, and after Clinch
was created, was its coroner several years. He married
Jemima Lee, daughter of Joshua Lee.

Hillcry P. Mathis, distantly related to the above named
Mathises, was brought to this section an orphan by his uncle,
James Edmondson, of Lowndes County. He was born in
Bulloch County in 182 1, and took part in the wars against
the Indians. He married Martha, daughter of Samuel Reg-
ister, Sr., by whom he had eleven children.

Edmund Stafford was a son of Josiah Stafford, and was a
soldier in the Indian war. Josiah Stafford died when Edmund
was young and the guardianship of Edmund and his sister,
Eliza, was vested in Duncan Henderson, by an order of the
Inferior Court, of Ware County, dated September 2nd, 1833.
The original letter of guardianship is still in the possession of
descendants of Edmund Stafford.

William B. North was commissioned a justice, of the peace
of the 719th district of Ware, now of Echols County, as
early as 1832.

About 1845 Richard H. Burkhalter, with his family,
moved to what is now Clinch County from Pulaski County.
He settled in the Mud Creek district, and was later ordinary
of Clinch County. He died in 1862. He was the forefather
of the Burkhalters of Clinch of to-day.

About the same time, George J. Tatum settled here. He
was bom in originally Appling County August 31, 1823,
and married Miss Lucy Joyce of this section, July 27th, 1 844.
They had twelve children. Mr. Tatum lived on what is
known as the Frank Dickerson place above DuPont, for
many years, previous to his removal to Hillsboro County,

History of Clinch County, Georgia 25

Florida, in 1867. From there he moved to Tatum Ridge in
Manatee County, where he lived until his death, January
9th, 1 9 10.

Joshua Lee moved to a place about three and one-half
miles north of where DuPont now is, in 1847, from Banks
Mill in Berrien County. He lived there until his death in
1857. He was a native of South Carolina, and his wife's
name was Miss Martha Ford. They had several children.
Both are buried at Prospect Church.

John T. Roberts was a soldier in the Indian wars, and at
hi^ death lived in the io6ist district. He first lived below
where Stockton now is, and when Cow Creek Church was
first constituted in 1847 ^^ was one of its original members.
He served in the Confederate Army also. He was born
December 7th, 18 10, and died March 24th, 1880. Among
his children were Tharp and Isham Roberts. He married
Candacy Tomlinson and had fourteen children.

Elihu Morgan was another pioneer, and lived in what later
became Echols County. He was bom in 1795. Among his
sons were Elihu, Jr., John and Joseph Morgan. He was a
man of considerable means, owning in 1850 real estate to the
extent of $6,000.00.

Isaac Curry came from .Tennessee and settled in this sec-
tion about 1840. He was bom in 178 1 and died in Mud
Creek, December 25th, 1856. His son, Charles W. Curry,
who was born in Tennessee in 1828, is still living in Mud
Creek. The elder Curry is buried at the Fender graveyard.

Another old family to remove here in the early days of this
section, was the Corbitts. Isham Corbitt was the progenitor
of this family in this section, and was a native of Tennessee.
1 he Corbitts, Currys and Paffords came from the same sec-
tion and settled in the same section. The sons of this old
pioneer were Harbird, Marshal, Newsom, Martin, William
and Hiram Corbitt, the last named dying in infancy. Isham
Corbitt died about 1855, and is buried in Berrien County.

Another family of Corbitts, of no known relation to the

26 History of Clinch County, Georgia

above is that of Daniel Corbitt and his descendants. He
came to this county about 1840 or 1845. He was bom in
1804 in South Carolina. (See Corbitt family history.)

Duncan Henderson lived in Ware County several years
but settled in what is now Clinch during the forties. He was
the first clerk of the Providence or Camp Branch Church,
which was organized in 1844. He died about 1863.

Acy Findley moved to what is now Clinch County about
1845 from Jefferson County, Florida, and settled on Cow
Creek. He died in 1873.

John E. Taylor moved to this section about 1 840 and set-
tled on Cow Creek. He was a native of Chatham County,
where he was bom in 18 18. He died about 1893.

David and Martin Fender were pioneers of the county.
They settled here about 1840. Both lived to be very old
men. David Fender, by his wife MoUie, had seven children,
viz. : Charles, Jacob, John, David, Bettie, George and Nellie
Fender. David Fender, Sr., died November 14th, 1886,
age 100 years. His first wife, Mary, died in June, 1853.

Martin Fender was born September 6th, 1803 and died
Febmary 2nd, 1899, being the oldest man in the county at
the time of his death. He was married three times and had
several children. Other old members of this family were
W. D. Fender, born 18 18, died 1895 ; John D. Fender, born
1823, died 1907 ; and J. L. Fender, bom 1840 and died 1885.

Irwin R. Booth was a minister of the Methodist Church
and a native of Beaufort County, S. C, where he was born in
18 12. He died in 1896 and is buried at Antioch Church
below Argyle. He came to this section about 1 840. He was
married twice.

' Abraham E. Smith, a native of Barnwell district. South
Carolina, came here and settled on the adjoining lot of land
to Homerville, in 1848. He sold it in 1866 and moved to a
place about three miles from town, where he lived until his
death in 1898. He was accompanied here by his brothers.

History of Clinch County, Georgia 27

John, Kit and Christopher J. Smith, the latter being known
as Jackson Smith.

John G. Rice was a native of Barnwell district, South
Carolina, and came to this section about 1825 or 1830. He
married and had seven children, his sons being Aaron, Dar-
ley, Artemus and Lott Rice. He joined the Confederate
Army in 1861 and died in 1863. He was an expert black-
* smith.

I Elias D. Waldron was born June 7th, 181 1, and died

October 20th, 1894. He settled here about 1850 and lived
about twelve miles south of Homerville. His wife, Nancy,
was born in 181 1, and died in 1892.

Hiram Kight was an old settler of this county. He was
born July loth, 181 1, and married Sarah, daughter of Law-
rence Smith. He settled near the present town of Homer-
ville about 1845, a^d lived there until 1863, when he sold out
to Robert B. Crum. Later he lived below Homerville a
few miles. Mr. Kight was a veteran of the Indian war and
his widow now draws an Indian war pension. He was mar-
ried a second time, Sarah Ann Griffis, who survived him. He
died about 1890.

Dr. L. C. Mattox settled on a place about three miles
east of Homerville in 1855. He lived there until his death in
1898. He was a very successful farmer.

William Hughes settled in this county about 1840. He
was born in South Carolina September 5th, 18 12. He was
married twice. He had several children. Mr. Hughes and
his wife were murdered and robbed by three negroes late in
the afternoon of November 6th, 1889. They were killed
with axes. The negroes were captured and two of them
hung while another was killed resisting arrest. This was the
most brutal murder ever perpetrated in Clinch County.
Among Mr. Hughes' sons were Francis M. Hughes, C. H.
Hughes, Jeptha Hughes and James H. Hughes.

Isaac Minshew, Sr., was a native of Scotland and came to
this county in the early part of the last century. He finally

28 . History of Clinch County, Georgia

settled on what is known as the Reubin Jewell place in Clinch
County and reared a family of ten children, and died there.
Among his children were John, David, Jacob and Abram
Minshew. The elder Minshew died about i860.

Jacob Minshew, a son of the above, was bom in this
county February i8th, 1834, and married Ellen Jordan. They
had ten children, his sons being Henry, Isaac, John R., David
J. and Lewis Minshew. The elder Minshew served in the
Civil War and was later justice of the peace of the 1389th
district. He died August 27th, 1907, and was buried at
Camp Branch Church.

John and Benjamin Stalvey were among the earlier set-
tlers of this county also. Another of this family, B. S. Stalvey,
lived in Echols County, where his descendants are now
numerous. The latter was born February 22nd, 1829, and
died October 8th, 1874, and is buried at Wayfare Church.
He was elected tax collector of Echols County in 1861. Ben-
jamin Stalvey lived in the 970th district of Clinch County
and died January i8th, 1890. He has many descendants
now living here.

Cornelius and Henry Joyce, Jr., were early settlers of this
section. They settled here about 1840. Henry Joyce, Sr,,
died about 1845, ^^^ ^^s widow, Sarah Joyce, and Miles J.
Guest were administrators on his estate. Cornelius Joyce
was at one time sheriff of Clinch County, Henry Joyce
served a term as tax collector of Clinch, and Miles J. Guest
was sheriff of Ware County.

William Lastinger was an early pioneer of the County. He
settled here some time about 1835, and became quite
wealthy. He owned a large tract of land above DuPont,
which he traded to Joshua Lee in 1848, for the famous mill-
pond now known as Banks Mill-pond, and also the land where
Milltown, in Berrien County, is now situated. He reared a
large family of children. Seaborn Lastinger, another mem-
ber of this family, died in the Civil War in 1861 at Savan-

History of Clinch County, Georgia 29

nah. He left one son, Seaborn A. Lastinger, who now lives
on Red Bluff Creek, in this county.

Other pioneers of this county were :

Tharp and Isham Roberts and James Daugharty, who
were living here in 1833; Joshua Kirkland, Henry Daughtery,
Moses GIddcns, John Fender, Eaton and Barzilla Douglas,
Richard Lee, Abraham Starling, Joel Griffis and Kindred
Griffis, all of whom lived here in 1845 5 John Scars, William
S. Bennett, William M. Thompson, James J. Lee, Allen
Corbitt, John Brack, John Timmerman, William Touchston,
James Whitehurst and Charles and George Kinard, all of
whom lived here in 1850. Besides these might be mentioned
John C. Kirkland, R. G. Dickcrson, Shimuel Timmerman
and Martin Nettles.

INDIAN WAR SOLDIERS.

Of those who took part in the Indian war of 1836-8, a
complete list is not available. In compiling the following
short list reference is had chiefly to the descendants of those
named. The list given is not given as being complete but
will serve to save the names of those given, in connection with
this war, from oblivion.

Levi J. Knight commanded the troops in this section as
major and colonel. He lived all his life in what is now Ber-
rien County, but he was closely identified with Clinch County.
David Johnson attained the rank of general. He was a cit-
izen of this county until his death in 1879. John J. Johnson
and John J. North and Daniel E. Knowles were captains.
The following served as privates :

Bennett, John Emanuel, Acy Lastinger, William

Chancey, Jeremiah Grififis, Juniper Miller, Martin L.

Carter, Jesse W. Grififis, Joel Miller, David

Corbitt, Daniel Henderson, Duncan Mathis, Hillery P.

Cornelius, Edward Henderson, Jack Mathis, Edmund

Cowart, Hillery Henderson, Berry North, William B.

Dickerson, R. G. Johnson, William Newbem, John

Daugharty; William Kirkland, John C. Newbem, George W.

Daugharty, James Lastinger, Guilford Newbem, Thomas

30 History of Clinch County, Georgia

O'Steen, John Register, Samuel Smith, James C.

Paff ord, James Sirmans, Joseph Staten, BarziUa

Permenter, Barvil Sirmans, Benjamin Sweat, James

Rowell, James Sirmans, Abner Stafford, Edmund

Rowell, David Sirmans, Jonathan Tomlinson, William

Roberts, John T. Sirmans, David J. Tomlinson, Marcus

Roberts, Tharp Smith, Lawrence Tomlinson, Levin

Roberts, Bill Smith, John, Sr. Tomlinson, John

CHAPTER III.

The Creation of Clinch County. — ^Act Creating Same. — ^The
Organization. — Bonds of First Officers. — Magnolia. — Set-
tlers. — Echols County Created from Clinch County.

AFTER reading over the settlers named in the previous
chapter and considering the condition of this section
^ about the time the new County of Clinch was created, it
will be easy to see that the conditions and the number of cit-
izens fully justified the creation of a new county, and the
name which was given the new county was for one who well
deserved the honor.

The new County of CUnch was named in honor of General
Duncan L. Clinch, who had just died at his home in Macon.
He had been a brave soldier in the War of 1812, and in the
Indian wars in Florida during 1836-8, he served as brigadier-
general. In the campaign of 1847 ^^ was a strong candi-
date for governor, but was defeated by Governor George W.
Towns, who afterwards by a co-incidence, signed the bill
creating a new county in honor of his opponent. General
Clinch was bom in Edgecombe County, N. C, in 1784, and
died in Macon in 1 849. For several years he lived in Cam-
den County where he was an extensive farmer. Ex-Governor
Duncan C. Heyward, of South Carolina, is a grandson of
General Clinch.

Among those back of the movement to create a new county
might be mentioned James W. Staten, Elijah Mattox, John
Tomlinson, Jr., and Benjamin Sirmans. Some of the most
influential men of Ware and Lowndes Counties were in
favor of it.

In the Legislature of 1849-50, William A. McDonald
was Ware's representative, and George Carter from Lowndes
county. A bill was introduced at this session to create Clinch
County, and was passed by a small majority on Monday,

32 History of Clinch County, Georgia

February 4th, 1850, the vote standing 53 yeas and 49 nays
in the House. The records do not show the vote in the Senate,
but it was passed and subsequently approved by the governor
on February 14th, 1850.

ACT CREATING CLINCH COUNTY.

The following is a verbatim copy of the act creating Clinch
County. Since then, several other laws have been passed
which affect the boundary line of the county, notably the
creation of Coffee and Echols Counties : '

"An Act to lay out and form a new county from the coun-
ties of Ware and Lowndes and to provide for the organiza-
tion of the same.

"Section i. Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep-
resentatives of the State of Georgia in General Assembly met,
and it is hereby enacted by authority of the same, that there
shall be a new county laid out and formed from the counties
of Ware and Lowndes, to be bounded as follows : commenc-
ing at the mouth of Cane Creek where it empties into the
Okefinokee Swamp, thence along said creek to the ford at
Daniel Lane's, thence a direct line to the mouth of Reedy
Creek where it empties into the Satilla River near John B.
Wall's, then the river to be the line up to the county line,
thence the county line to the AUapaha River, thence the river
to be the line to the Florida line, to the Okefinokee Swamp ;
the territory thus included shall form a new county to be
called the County of Clinch.

"Sec. 2. And be it further enacted, that Elijah Mattox,
Simon W. Nichols, Timothy Kirkland, Benjamin Sirmans
and John J. Johnson be and they are hereby appointed com-
missioners, with authority, at the expense of the new county
hereby laid out, to employ a suitable person to run and dis^
tinctly mark the lines thereof that are not designated in this
Act, and they shall further be authorized and empowered to
fix upon the site for the public buildings, which shall be as
near the center of the county as is convenient or practicable ;

THE HOMERVILLE BRASS BAND. Organized 1916.
Reading left to right, seated: C. A. Campbell, Flem C. Dame, Folks Hux-
ford, E. J. Smith and W. H. Moncrief.

Standing, left to right: T. R. O'Steen, Fred Dillon, H. C. Dickerson,
George Dillon and J. R. Dillon.

History of Clinch County, Georgia 33

and until there is a court-house built the Superior and Inferior
Courts, and Court of Ordinary shall be held at the house of
Jonathan Knight.

"Sec. 3. And be it further enacted, That the commissioners
hereinbefore named, shall have power and authority to pur-
chase and receive titles to a suitable tract or parcel of land
for the site of the public buildings, to lay out a town which
shall be called Polk, and to sell and dispose of such number
of lots upon such terms as they may think proper for county
purposes; provided, nevertheless, the Inferior Court of said
county shall have the power and be authorized to do and per-
form all and every duty hereby required of the commis-
sioners which may not have been performed previous to the
time that said court are commissioned and qualified.

"Sec. 4. And be it further enacted. That all officers, both
civil and military, which may be included within the limits of
the said new county, shall continue to hold their offices re-
spectively as if commissioned as officers hereof; and said
county shall form a part of the First Congressional District,
and a part of the fifth Senatorial District and shall be at-
tached to the Southern Circuit, and to the second Brigade
of the Sixth Division, G. M.

"Sec. 5. And be it further enacted. That an election shall
be held on the first Monday in April, next, at the house of
Jonathan Knight, and at the different election precincts that
are established by law which may be included within the
limits of the said new county, for five justices of the Infreior
Court, clerk of the Superior and Inferior Courts, a tax re-
ceiver and collector, coroner and sheriff and a county surveyor.

"Sec. 6. And be it further enacted, That the justices of the
Inferior Court as soon as convenient after they have been
elected and qualified, shall meet at the house of the said Jon-
athan Knight and from the best information they may be able
to procure, make a selection of grand and petit jurors, and
proceed to the drawing thereof as pointed out by law, for the
ensuing Superior and Inferior Courts.

34 History of Clinch County, Georgia

"Sec. 7. And be it further enacted, That all actions now
pending in either of the counties from which said new county
is now taken wherein the defendant or defendants may now
be included in said county, shall be transferred with all papers
relating thereto and the trial in said new county where the
defendant resides.

"Sec. 8. And be it further enacted, by the authority afore-
said. That all laws and parts of laws militating against this
Act, be and the same are hereby repealed.

"Approved, February 14th, 1850."

THE ORGANIZATION.

Pursuant to the above Act passed by the Legislature, the
commissioners named therein, viz.: Elijah Mattox, Simon
W. Nichols, Timothy Kirkland, Benjamin Sirmans and John
J. Johnson, proceeded to employ a suitable person to dis-
tinctly run the lines of the new county which were not pointed
out in the Act, and to decide on a suitable place for the court-
house or county site. Elijah Mattox, one of the commission-
ers, who was skilled in surveying, was selected to run the lines
of the new county, and with some help the work was soon
done.

The commissioners met at the house of Jonathan Knight
as pointed out in the Act. Mr. Knight lived about two miles
north of where DuPont now is, and the house in which he
then lived, is now standing, with some modifications, and is
occupied by Mr. Charles H. North, who now owns the lot
of land on which the house is situated. The house is one of
the historic marks of the county, for it was here that the
organization of Clinch County was perfected.

The commissioners named in the Act were some of the best
men in the new county. Elijah Mattox was previously clerk
of the Superior Court of Ware County, also a former sur-
veyor and representative, and at this time lived on the Florida
line at Blount's Ferry. Simon W. Nichols moved here from
Jones County, and was a large landowner. He was the father

History of Clinch County, Georgia 35

of the celebrated trio of brothers, — ^John C, William M.,
and Waver J. Nichols, who played such prominent parts in
the future history of the county. Benjamin Sirmans was one
of the first settlers of the county and was formerly a repre-
sentative from Lowndes County several terms. Timothy
Kirkland lived in what is now Coffee County, while John J.
Johnson lived down in the vicinity of where Echols County
now is.

The election for county officers, which the Act above set
out, called for, was duly held on the first Monday in April,
1850, and the following officers were elected: J. C. Kirk-
land, Clerk of the Superior and Inferior Courts; Charles
Cowart, sheriff; Benjamin Cornelius, tax receiver; Ezekiel J.
Sirmans, tax collector ; David J. Blackburn, surveyor ; Joseph
L. Rogers, coroner. The following justices of the Inferior
Court were elected: David Johnson, Isham F. Johnson,
Hiram Sears, and Manning Smith. Although the Act called
for five justices, for some reason only four were elected and
commissioned. However, in 1852, Francis H. McCall was
elected to fill out the term, but for some reason did not qualify.
Elijah Mattox was elected surveyor soon afterwards owing
to the failure of Blackburn to qualify.

BONDS OF FIRST OFFICERS.

It might be interesting here to give some particulars of the
official bonds given by our first county officers, which is ob-
tained from the records in the Executive Department at
Atlanta :

John C. Kirkland, who was elected clerk of the Superior
Court, gave his bond dated June 24th, 1850, with Jonathan
Knight and David J. Sirmans as securities; amount $3,000.
His bond as clerk of the Inferior Court was given at the
same time for $2,000, with Cornelius Joyce, Ezekiel J. Sir-
mans and Jacob Lightsey as securities.

Benjamin Cornelius did not qualify as tax receiver in 1850,
owing to the fact that he was elected in 1849 ^^ tax receiver

36 History of Clinch County , Georgia

of Ware County for two years. However, in 1851, he was
re-elected and qualified, and his bond, dated February 17th,
1 85 1, was given for $2,000, with David J. Sirmans, James
W. Staten and Jonathan Knight as securities.

Ezekiel J. Sirmans did not qualify as tax collector in 1850
for the same reason as Mr. Cornelius, having been elected
the year before to the same office in Ware County. Being
re-elected in 1 851, he gave bond, dated February 17th, 185 1,
for $2,000, with David J. Sirmans, Josiah Sirmans^ and
James W. Staten as securities.

David J. Blackburn, who was re-elected surveyor in 1851,
gave bond dated March 3rd, 1851, for $3,000, with James
Lee and William Hughes as securities.

John Mathis, who was elected coroner in 185 1, gave bond
dated February 17th, 1851, for $500, with James W. Staten
and Jonathan Knight as securities.

MAGNOLIA.

The county site, which by the Act creating the county, was
to be called Polk, was finally located on lot of land No. 420,
in the 1 2th land district. A part of this lot was deeded to the
county to build the county site on. The name "Polk" was
first given it, in memory of President James K. Polk, but by
an act of the Legislature assented to January 15th, 1852, the
name of the county site was changed to Magnolia. It has
since borne this name. Magnolia was incorporated by an act
of the Legislature approved February 20th, 1854. The
corporate limits embraced eighty acres and the town was to
be governed by five commissioners.

The first court-house was not built at Magnolia until the
winter of the year 1852.* The contract last let by the Inferior
Court to John and Elias Moore, who built it. The building
was quite a small one but amply met the demands of that day.
It was destroyed by fire in 1856. It was replaced by another
building which was subsequently removed to Homerville.

*Authority: Mr. J. R. Dickerson.

History of Clinch County, Georgia 37

The town of Magnolia was never more than a small vil-
lage. It was laid out on land which was drained on either
side by small ponds and branches. It was situated as near the
center of the county as practicable. There was a main street
running through the town, east and west, and public build-
ings were situated on the north side of the main street. The
main street to-day is a large lane running through and which
divides fields. The fields are not cultivated with the excep-
tion of an acre or two by negro tenants. Connecting with the
main street on the west was a stage road which ran by where
DuPont now is, and connected with the stage road which ran
from Troup ville through the northern part of the county to
Waresboro. The stage coaches in that day carried the mails
and were as much a necessity then as the mail and passenger
tmins are to-day.

Among the first settlers at Magnolia were John L. Mor-
gan, who moved there in 1853; also David O'Quin, Reubin
Y. Stanford and Robert F. White. The last three owned and
operated stores there for a few years. The. following cit-
izens served as justices of the peace for the district in whicli
Magnolia was located, during the several years following the
creation of the new county; these citizens lived in or near
Magnolia: Elliott Chancy, Jesse Smith, Aaron D. Dyals,
Henry E. Peacock, Elias Williams, Levi W. Carter, Abra-
ham Strickland and Joseph J. Cohen.

Robert F. White, mentioned above, was more familiarly
known to his friends as "Bob*' White, and occupied a two-
story log house for his store and home. He was a justice of
the Inferior Court of Clinch County three years.

A narrative is related which brings to mind Mr. White
having a store at Magnolia.J In 1855 William M. Nichols
who was then a young man, was a candidate for state senator
from Clinch County, and General David Johnson, of Indian
war fame, who was very popular, was his opponent. The race
between them was very hot and there was much speculation

$ Authority: Mr. J. B. Cornelius.

38 History of Clinch County, Georgia

as to who would be elected. Mr. White was a Nichols sup-
porter, while Mr. David O'Quin who also ran a store, was a
Johnson supporter. The stores of each one was made the
headquarters for the respective adherents of the candidates.
There was some strife which took place before the election.
It took about two days after the election for all the returns
to be received from the different parts of the county. When
the vote was consolidated, it was found that young Nichols
had defeated General Johnson by four votes. Great was the
chagrin of the old fighter when he learned of his defeat,
while joy of course pervaded the Nichols party. General
Johnson was then about 52 years old, while Mr. Nichols was
barely 21.

The first Masonic Lodge in the county was established at
Magnolia about 1855. When the county site was removed
to Homerville the lodge was also removed, and the lodge
to-day is known as Cassia Lodge No. 224 F. & A. M. The
first worshipful master of the lodge at Magnolia was Hon.
John L. Morgan, for many years Ordinary of Clinch County.
Other charter members were David O'Ouin, George W.
Newbern, Jesse Smith, Shimuel Timmerman and Reubin Y.
Stanford. The major portion of the records of the lodge
was burned up with the burning of DuBignon Institute at
Homerville in 1909. The lodge's home was then in the third
story of the Institute.

The court-house at Magnolia was destroyed in 1856. The
cause of the fire was always thought to be incendiary, although
no arrests were made. It seemed that a certain party, dis-
satisfied with some legal proceedings against him, determined
to destroy the court-house in the hope that justice would be
thwarted. The records for the previous six years were de-
stroyed, entailing a very severe loss on the county both finan-
cially and in the value of the records.

NEW SETTLERS.

Among the settlers who moved into the new county follow-
ing its creation were John L. Morgan, Tarlton McMillan

History of Clinch County, Georgia 39

and Thomas G. Ramsey. Judge Morgan removed from
Lowndes County and settled at Magnolia about 1853. Mr.
McMillan came here in the same year. He is yet living at
the ripe age of 90. Judge Ramsey moved in from Alachua
County, Florida, and resided here until 1875.

The O'Quins also settled here about this time. Two
brothers, David O'Quin and H. D. O'Quin became quite
prominent as county officers. Their father was Silas O'Quin,
who lived in Wayne County. He was bom July 20th, 1788
and died in 1879, ^S^ 9^ years. The children of Silas O'Quin
were : Stephen, Jackson, H. D., Alexander, David, Charlton,
George, Rebecca and Nancy O'Quin. David and H. D.
O'Quin were the only ones who ever lived in this county.

David D. Johnson also came here about this time. He
came here from Dooly County in 1855 ^^^ settled near the
present village of Withers, on the place where S. W. Reg-
ister afterwards lived. Mr. Johnson was born January 21st,
1 8 13, and died in 1862, in the Civil War. His wife was
Sarah Pate, who died in 1900. They had several children.

W. J. Strickland moved here about this time from Tattnall
County, where he was born October loth, 1829. His first
wife was a daughter of Hiram Sears, but she did not live
long after their marriage. Mr. Strickland's second wife was
Charity Sears, daughter of Harrison Scars. He died at his
home below Homerville, August 3rd, 1907.

John W. Hodges came to this county a few years after it
was created. He first lived about four miles east of Homer-
ville, but during the war bought a home in Homerville and
removed to town. His wife was Miss Elizabeth E. Darsey,
of Liberty County, to whom he was married February 12th,
1846. Mr. Hodges was born April 30, 1822 and died in
Homerville December 26th, 1878. He was survived by his
wife who is yet living. Mr. Hodges was a brother to Archi-
bald Hodges, and was a member of the Baptist Church,
being a deacon for many years previous to his death.

James Touchstone and William Touchston were also early

40 History of Clinch County, Georgia

settlers, following the creation of the county. The former
moved in from where Milltown now is, in 1851 and settled
on Cow Creek. His death occurred in August, 1865, age 71
years. William Touchston was distantly related to James
Touchstone and settled here a few years before.

John Q. Findlcy settled in Clinch County in 1850. He
was a native of Tattnall County, and for several years was
coroner of Clinch County. He lost his life in the Civil War.

Capt. J. P. A. DuPont settled where the town of DuPont
now is, about 1858. This illustrious man married a daughter
of Simon W. Nichols. He died in 1863. A more detailed
sketch of his life will be found elsewhere in this book.

Also there was Matthew Fiveash, who moved to near
where DuPont now is, about 1858. He died about 1886. He
married Mary, a daughter of George Dame, Sr. Among his
daughters were Mary, who married S. D. Findley, Eliza, who
married Lucius Sirmans, Delilah, who married Frank Dick-
erson, and Roxie, who married James O. Dampier.

Levi Herren, Sr., moved here about this time. He was
bom in 1796, and was a native of this State. His wife,
Charity Sears, was born in 18 12. Mr. Herren had several
children, among them : Levi Herren, Jr., and Mildred, who
married Benjamin O'Steen, Mary, who married J. M. Jef-
fords, and Olive, who married Freeman S. Walker, Jackson,
who married Jane Arnold, and Mack, who married a Har-
greaves.

Charles Strickland came to Clinch County in 1 849 and set-
tled on Red Bluff Creek on lands now owned by A. J. Lock-
liear. He was a native of Pierce County, and married Lucre-
tia, a daughter of Hon. Benj. Sirmans.

Robert F. Lanier was a minister of the Methodist Episco-
pal Church, and was sent to Clinch County as a circuit rider
in 1857. This early pioneer of Methodism of Clinch County
was bom in DeKalb County and married Miss Matilda Pick-
run. He died in 1888 and was buried on the old home place
of Dr. L. C. Mattox, near Homerville.

History of Clinch County, Georgia 41

Also Ziba King came to this county about this time. He
was a native of Ware County and was the first judge of the
County Court of Clinch County. He subsequently removed
to Desoto County, Florida, where he became very wealthy in
the cattle business. He died in 1901.

George W. Dclk came to Clinch County from Ware just
before the Civil War. He served as sheriff of Ware County
in 1855-7, ^^^ was later a justice of the peace of the io6ist
district. He was bom in 1822 and died about 1895.

Jonathan L. Morgan came to Clinch County in i860, and
settled about ten miles south of Homerville. Here he lived
until 1905, when he removed to Waycross. Mr. Morgan was
bom in 1832 in Appling County, and died May 5th, 1907, in
Waycross. He married Susan, daughter of Abr. Hargreaves,
of Ware County, and had four children.

John C. Hargreaves was a son of Abraham Hargreaves,
and was born June 5th, 1835. ^^ married Parthena, a
daughter of Thomas Morgan. He lived about ten miles
south of Homerville. He came here about i860 and
in 1876 removed to Florida, where he died the same year.

John Gibbs settled here about 1855 ^^ i860. He married

Charity, a daughter of George Dame, Sr., and they had five

children, viz. : George D. Gibbs, Willis B. Gibbs, Austin J.

.Gibbs, Martha E. Gibbs, who married J. B. Cornelius and

Catherine, who married Jeptha Hughes.

Henry P. Livingston came to this county in 1859 ^^^ mar-
ried Palester, daughter of John J. North. He accumulated
much property and leaving it to his wife and only child, sud-
denly disappeared about 1864. He never did reveal where
he came from and it has never been ascertained where he
went to. His only child was J. H. W. Livingston.

John Williams, Sr., was living here when the county was
created. He was bom in 1800 and liis wife in 1798. His
wife was Nancy Smith, daughter of William Smith and sister
of John, Jesse and James M. Smith. Mr. Williams raised
several children, among them being Hezekiah P. Williams,

42 History of Clinch County, Georgia

born 1830; Jackson S. Williams, bom 1832; John Williams,
Jr., bom about 1835; and Elias Williams, who served as a
justice of the peace in the 970th district a year or two ; John
Williams, Jr., served one term as representative from Clinch
County.

ECHOLS COUNTY CREATED.

In 1858 Echols County was created by an Act of the Leg-
islature, approved December 13th, 1858. The new county
was named for General Robert M. Echols, and took a slice
of Clinch County territory. The first election was held soon
afterwards, and the following officers were elected and were
commissioned April 15 th, 1859: Jesse P. Prescott, clerk of
the Superior and Inferior Courts; James S. Carter, sheriff;
James P. Y. Higdon, ordinary; John E. McMuUin, tax re-
ceiver; Samuel E. Prescott, tax collector, James Carter, treas-
urer; Duncan McLeod, surveyor and John Sellars, coroner.
At the same time were elected the following justices of the
Inferior Court: Noah H. Griffin, Robert Prine, John T.
Allen, James R. Miller and Joshua T. Carter.

Statcnville, the county site of Echols County, was named
for Capt. James W. Staten, the first representative from
Clinch County, and was incorporated December 13th, 1859,
with the following town commissioners: Jesse P. Prescott,
John T. Allen, R. W. McAlhaney, Benj. Stalvey and James
S. Carter.

CHAPTER IV.

Homerville Opened Up. — Its History.

IN February, 1853, Dr. John Homer Mattox, with his
family, moved from their former home on the Suwannee
River, near the Florida line, to where Homerville now
is. He set to work, built a very substantial home and cleared
a farm. The stage route ran by his home and on to Magnolia,
and oftentimes the mail carrier would spend the night at Dr.
Mattox's home. In fact, a relay of horses was kept at his home
by the mail carrier. The stage road after leaving Waresboro,
then the county site of Ware County, continued south by
where J. C. Kirkland lived, thence across Cain Creek, thence
by Hiram Kight's place, then by Dr. Mattox's place, on to
Magnolia, and thence to Troupville, then the county site of
Lowndes County.

The nearest neighbors to Dr. Mattox were John Brack,
who lived on what is now called the Stewart place, near
Homerville; Robert G. Dickerson, who lived on lot of land
425 above Homerville; Hiram Kight, who lived on lot of
land 453 near Homerville; James C. Smith, who lived just
across Cain Creek; Abraham E. Smith, who lived on lot 499,
and Manning Smith, on lot 424, all these lots being in the
seventh land district.

About the time he had permanently established his home.
Dr. Mattox began to call it "Homerville" and his mail was so
addressed him. He called it after his own name, not thinking
that later on, a town would be built up on the same lot of
land and retain the name. This seems to have been the
origin of Homerville's name. However, after the railroad
came through, Homerville was designated by the railroad
people as "Station No. 11," and as such the place was known
for a good many years. Gradually the station number name
was dropped and to-day is only a memory of the past. Dur-

44 History of Clinch County, Georgia

ing this time the mail was generally addressed "Homervillc,
Station No. ii, A. & G» R. R." Therefore, it can be seen
that the original name given it by Dr. Mattox was still in
use to a certain extent and has been since he so began to call it.

A narrative is related by Hon. John L. Morgan, Jr., who
formerly lived here, but who now lives in Lakeland, Fla.,
concerning the future of Dr. Mattox's place where Homer-
viUe was later built. It follows :

One day in 1853, ^^- Mattox and Mr. John Stalvey were
hunting deer on what is called Dogwood Island, which was
then owned by Dr. Mattox. This island is a piece of land
^bout a mile from Homerville entirely surrounded by creeks,
and is called an island. Mr. Stalvey was one of the men of
his time who was really to some extent a prophet. He had
prophetic visions which were noted for their accuracy. He
had previously lain down imder a certain pine tree on this
island and had a vision. So as he and Dr. Mattox were hunt-
ing, he pointed Dr. Mattox to a certain pine tree and told
him to go and look at the root of the tree and see where he
(Mr. Stalvey) had lain down the day before and rested.
Mr. Stalvey then told him he had had a vision here. Said he :
*'I saw a long, great road as far as I could see, extending each
way (indicating east and west). I do not know what kind of
a road it will be, but I want to remember this incident, and
some time, perhaps after Vm dead and gone a road will be
run through this land. This is your land and the road will
make it very valuable. That is my vision." So in after years
when the Atlantic & Gulf Railroad came through this section,
it came straight through this land, and tradition has it that
the very tree under which Mr. Stalvey had his vision, was dug
up to make way for the road. At the time Mr. Stalvey had
the vision, the railroad was unthought of.

In 1859, the Atlantic & Gulf Railroad was built through
as far as where DuPont now is. The next year it was car-
ried on through. It was built from Savannah in a south-
western direction through territory rich in resources and

History of Clinch County, Georgia 45

which had never been opened up. The road was completed to
Homerville in the fall of 1859. In order to induce the rail-
road people to make his place a station, Dr. Mattox not only
granted them a right-of-way through his lands, but gave them
a beautiful square of land in the new town, containing about
six acres on the south side of the road. The gift is evidenced
by a deed d^ted November 29th, 1859, witnessed by John C,
Reynolds and John Screven, J. I. C. and duly recorded.

Dr. Mattox immediately set to work to have the county
seat removed to Homerville from Magnolia. He had the
new town laid off into town lots and encouraged people to
move in from other places. Dr. Mattox offered to the In-
ferior Court wJiich had jurisdiction over the matter, to move
the court-house to Homerville and pay all expenses of the
removal and furthermore give the land whereon to place the
building. Mr. J. P. A. DuPont, who was then opening up
the new town of DuPont or Lawton, as it was then called,
also desired the court-house removed to that point, claim-
ing Lawton was more centrally located, which was true. But
as he did not offer to pay the expenses of the removal, and
furthermore a petition was presented signed by about 275
citizens of the county asking the removal of the county site
to Homerville, the Inferior Court decided to make Homer-
ville the county site.

An Act of the Legislature, assented to December 12th,
i860, authorized the Inferior Court to remove the county
site to Homerville. The body of the Act authorizing the
removal, reads as follows:

** Whereas, a petition signed by about two hundred and
seventy-five citizens of said county, is presented, asking re-
moval by the present General Assembly of the State of Geor-
gia, of the site of the public buildings of said county, from
Magnolia in said county, to Station Number 1 1 , on the At-
lantic & Gulf Railroad in said county ;

"And, Whereas, the Inferior Court have had executed to
them a bond with good and sufficient security from one John

46 History of Clinch County, Georgia

H. Mattox that the said removal shall be made without
expense to the County of Clinch ;

"Section i. The General Assembly of the State of Georgia
do enact, That the Inferior Court of the County of Clinch,
upon the passage of this Act, are authorized to remove the
site of the public puildings of the County of Clinch from
the town of Magnolia, in said county to Station Number 11,
on the Atlantic & Gulf Railroad, in said county, on lot of
land number four hundred and ninety-eight (498) in the 7th
district of said county, at such time and upon such terms as
they may deem advisable, and to the best interest of said
county of Clinch, and the convenience of the citizens thereof."

The court-house was moved to Homerville and rebuilt
during the winter of 1859-60. John Moore and Martin S.
Corbitt contracted to move the building to Homerville and
Dr. Mattox employed Mr. Corbitt and Jackson S. Williams
to rebuild it. The jail at Magnolia was not moved, and a
new one was built at Homerville. The old jail which had
only two rooms or cells, was built of good, sound logs and is
yet standing on the site of old Magnolia, the most spectral
of the relics of our old county site.

Among the new comers to Homerville was John C. Kirk-
land, who was one of the first to build a little store house of
logs; in this he kept a small stock of groceries and liquors.
Also Joel Strickland, John L. Morgan, Sr., and John J. John-
son built homes here about the same time. The first store
house built of planks or sawed lumber was built by John
Bryan and Hugh Tedder. In this they placed a good sized
stock of merchandise and employed Dr. Mattox to run the
business a while until they could arrange their other affairs.
Immediately after this store was opened up, Joel Strickland
built what in later years was called the Crum House. It had
several rooms in it and was from the first used as a hotel. In
later years considerable additions were made to it under other
owners. Mr. Strickland also built a small store house at the

History of Clinch County, Georgia 47

same time and a year later sold both the hotel and store to
Charles Cowart, who ran them several years-

The need for a saw-mill nearby soon developed itself, and
Dr. Mattox accordingly began to take steps to build one. He
and Cyrus S. Graves, a newcomer, entered into partnership
aiid the machinery was bought in Savannah and put into
use in the winter of 1860-61. Dr. Mattox furnished not only
the money to finance the undertaking, but also furnished the
timber. The mill ran along very smoothly until the outbreak
of the Civil War, in the summer of 1861, when Mr. Graves
joined the Confederate Army. The mill stopped running for
awhile, and Dr. Mattox sold it to a Mr. Latimer, of Savan-
nah, who employed James M. Nelms to run it; and Mr.
Nelms managed it three or four years when the mill was
finally closed down indefinitely.

The beginning of the war cast a damper on the growth of
the little town and for several years after Homerville was
opened up there were only about two or three small stores,
and perhaps eight or ten families who lived here. Many
older residents of the county remember Homerville when it
was only this big.

After the county site was moved to Homerville, it became
necessary to lay out new public roads leading from the county
site, and for this purpose the Inferior Court appointed Fred-
erick J. Mills, Dr. Mattox and Manning Smith, who laid out
the public roads leading out from Homerville, some of which
are in use to the present day.

During the war, Dan H. Stewart refugeed to Clinch
County from Savannah and settled at Homerville. He served
as deputy clerk under David O'Quin, clerk of the Superior
Court. He lived here a few years and removed back to Savan-
nah after the war, where he died about 1868. Also there
was William M. Austin, James C. Cooper, Sylvanus Hitch,
J. L. Sweat, Zibe King, George Goette and his son, F. M.
Goette, William W. Griffin, John W. Hodges, L. A. Sir-
mans, James L. Mitchell, John L. Morgan, Andrew J. and

48 History of Clinch County, Georgia

M. M. Caswell, who settled here either during the war or
immediately following it.

Mr. H. A. Mattox established a store at Homerville about
this time. Also A. Loeb and Joseph Wiles, both German
Jews, came here and opened up a large mercantile business
with a barroom in connection, and for two or three years did
a flourishing business. However, they removed about 1870
to Jefferson County, Florida. Mr. E, T. Dukes came to
Homerville in 1867, ^^^ entered the mercantile business.

Homerville's legal lights for a few years following the war
were Charles S. Morgan, a young lawyer about 25 years
of age, L. A. Sirmans, John C. Nichols, J. L. Sweat, who was
admitted to the bar in 1869 and Simon W. Hitch, who was
admitted in 1870.

About 1866, William M. Nichols, together with a part-
ner, A. S. Bigelow, opened up a turpentine business about
two miles west of Homerville on the south side of the rail-
road. This business continued about two years and dissolved.
So far as is known, this is the first turpentine still operated in
Clinch County, at least in and around Homerville.

In 1866, another saw-mill was built at Homerville, on the
south side of the railroad. It was owned by W. G. Norwood,
while J. B. Porter managed the mill for Mr. Norwood. This
business did not continue very long, and Mr. Norwood
removed.

About 1868, Mr. John L. Morgan, Sr., together with his
son, John L. Morgan, Jr., established a steam saw and grist
mill at Homerville. It was situated on the town lot whereon
Calvitt Huxford now lives. Later Mrs. Amanda R.
Strickland and Thomas C. and William R. Morgan became
partners in this business. The latter two were sons of John
L. Morgan, Sr. This business continued for a few years and
for a long time was the only milling place for this part of
the county.

H. A. Mattox and H. P. Mattox, during the '70s, entered
the turpentine and mercantile business in Homerville. At

History of Clinch County, Georgia 49

first Charles F. Mattox was a partner, but he died in 1884.
The business continued on under the name of H. & H. Mat-
tox, and for many years was about the largest business in
Homerville. Their two or three stills were situated a few
miles from Homerville, while the store was in town.

Basil G. O'Bryan owned and operated a general store for
a few years previous to his death in May, 1870. He was a
native of South Carolina and married Miss Julia Mattox, a
daughter of Elijah Mattox. After his death, Mrs. O'Bryan
married John A. Whittington.

About 1875 a new turpentine business was opened up at
Homerville by HoUiday, Lane & Company, new comers from
South Carolina. Joseph W. HoUiday, George B. Lane and
Richard Jordan were the partners and the capital invested was
$12,000. R. Julius Evans was employed as general manager
part of the time they were here. The partners all finally re-
turned to South Carolina and removed their business about
1 88 1 Their still was located on the railroad square in town.

Homerville's school system was very irregular prior to
1895. The schools were taught by different individuals and
sometimes there would be two schools being taught at the
same time. About 1894, a movement was started which
resulted in the erection of a new school building, which was
named DuBignon Institute, in honor of Hon. F. G. Du-
Bignon, one of the State's most gifted sons. The land
whereon it was built was deeded by Mrs. M. M. Caswell
and W. T. Smith to the school trustees, to be used for school
purposes. This building was burned down in 1909, and the
land reverted back to the owners. More about this school
will be found elsewhere in this book.

Previous to the erection of the new DuBignon Institute,
a small frame house located on the Railroad Square, across
the street from the Methodist Church, served as the school
house. It was subsequently sold to the colored people, who
removed it to another location and used it as a church. The
location of this old building was very near a tract of land 105

50 History of Clinch County^ Georgia

feet each way, which was deeded by Dr. Mattox to some
school trustees in i86i for school and Masonic purposes. The
deed is dated June 25th, 1861, and is made to Dr. L. C. Mat-
tox, Jacob Watson and Robert F. Lanier as trustees, and the
land is described as being on the south side of the east corner
of the square belonging to the railroad company.

Homerville was first incorporated by an Act of the Legis-
lature approved February 15th, 1869. The bill was intro-
duced by Mr. Guilford Lastinger, who was then represen-
tative from Clinch County. The Act named Allen (N.)
Smith, Alfred Newbem, Joel Strickland, John J. Johnson
and Basil G. O'Bryan as commissioners of the 'town to hold
office until the first Saturday in January, 1870, at which
time an election was to be held for their successors. These
commissioners had all the power and authority that is usually
vested in a mayor and council. They were to elect one of
their number president of their body; after which they were
to elect a marshal, treasurer and clerk. A feature about this
Act was that all property owners as well a$ other qualified
voters could vote for the election of the town's commissioners.
The boundary or limits of the town by this Act reached one-
half mile in each direction from the court-house, the boun-
dary to be laid off square and parallel with the Atlantic &
Gulf Railroad. The limit to which they could tax property
in town was fifty per cent, of the State tax.

No records are available as to the successors of these com-
missioners, other than scattering evidences. In 1876, the
president of the commissioners was J. L, Sweat, and the other
commissioners were : H. A. Mattox, George B. Lane, Josiah
Sirmans, and W, A. Ecord. The clerk and treasurer was M.
M, Caswell and the marshal was John A, Street. In 1883
the town commissioners were: J. L. Sweat, president; M. M.
Caswell, W. H. Gary, W. A. Ecord and Sherod Smith. The
clerk was Joseph P. Mattox, treasurer was W. T. Smith.
Thomas Singleterry was marshal. In 1895 the town commis-

History of Clinch County, Georgia 5 1

sioners were: W. H. Gary, president, B. A. Whittington,
George M. Dame, R. G. Dickerson and J. D. Mattox.

Homerville was re-incorporated by an Act of the Legisla-
ture approved December 23rd, 1896. The corporate limits
were placed at three-fourths of a mile in every direction from
the court-house, which is the present limits. Under this Act,
W. H. Gary was elected mayor, and George M. Dame, R. G.
Dickerson, J. D. Mattox and B. A. Whittington were elected
councilmen.

The charter granted in 1896 remained in force until 1907,
when a new charter was granted by the Legislature. Under
this Act, Col. S. L. Drawdy was appointed mayor, and W. A.
Ecord, W. T. Dickerson, J. T. Dame and S. A. Sweat were
appointed councilmen.

The town owns the magnificent DuBignon Institute, in the
western part of town, but the control of the school, such as
the selection of teachers and the raising of revenue for school
purposes, is vested in the local school trustees, an auxiliary of
the County Board of Education. For the purpose of building
this school building, a bond election was held in January,
1910, and as a result the issuing of about $8,000 in bonds
was authorized with which to build it.

The following is a list of the mayors since 1896 :

1 896^1 899— W. H. Gary.

1 899-1905 — R. M, Crum.

1905 — ^A. H. Culpepper (resigned).

1905-1906 — G. H. Cornelius.

1906-1907 — S. W. Register.

1907-1909 — S. L. Drawdy.

1909-1911 — H. J. Dame.

1911-1913 — H. J. Peaglcr.

1913-19 14 — Flem C. Dame (resigned).

1915- 1916 — G. A, Gibbs.

The following is a list of town clerks since 1895.

1 895-1 896 — ^J. D. Mattox.

1 896-1 897 — R. G. Dickerson.

52 History of Clinch County, Georgia

1 897-1905 — ^J. D. Mattox.

1 905-1 906 — B. S. Guest.

1 906-1 907 — R. G. Dickerson.

1 907-1 909 — ^W. T. Dickerson.

1909-1911 — ^J. F. Hughes.

1911-1916 — ^A. J. Gibbs.

The present town council is composed of S. A. Sweat, G. C.
Hughes, J. F. Barnhill and S. S. Dillon. The town treasurer
and tax collector is A. J. Gibbs.

The Bank of Homerville is the only banking institution in
the county, and was organized in 1903 with a paid-in capital
of $15,000. Since then it has been increased to $25,000. The
first officers of the bank were L. O. Benton, president; H. J.
Peagler, vice-president; and M. A. McDowell, cashier. Its
first directors were: L: O. Benton, H. J. Peagler, M. A. Mc-
Dowell, George M. Dame, D. E. Kirkland, and S. C. Town-
send. A year or so later Mr. Benton resigned as president
and Mr. H. J. Peagler was elected in his stead. Col. W. T.
Dickerson was then elected vice-president, which he has held
ever since. Mr. Peagler served as president until his death in
I9i3> after which Col. R. G. Dickerson was elected in his
stead, and he is the present president of the bank. The cash-
iers of the bank have been as follows: M. A. McDowell,
1903-4; H. L. Lankford, Jr., 1904-5; H. J. Dame, 1905-7;
H. M. Peagler, 1907-8; J. F. Hughes, 1 908-11, and G. A.
Gibbs, 1911-16. The present assistant cashier is H. C.
Dickerson. The present board of directors are : R. G. Dick-
erson, W. T. Dickerson, W. V. Musgrovc, A. J. Gibbs,
George M. Dame, J. T. Dame and S. A. Sweat. This bank
is a strong institution and enjoys the patronage and confidence
of the whole county. It is a State depository.

In a commercial way. The Hughes Company ranks among
the first in the amount of its business. This concern is a cor-
poration incorporated in Brooks County, where it carried on
an extensive business prior to its removal here in 191 1. G. C.
Hughes, an extensive turpentine operator, and a native of

History of Clinch County, Georgia 53

North Carolina, is president, and G. O. Carroll, a native of
Lowndes County, is secretary and treasurer and general
manager.

Another concern which carries on a large business is Dame
Brothers, a partnership composed of Messrs. George M. and
John T. Dame. This is the oldest existing establishment in
Homerville, having been organized in 1 890. Mr. J. T. Dame
has served Clinch County as ordinary since 1905, while his
brother has served two terms as county treasurer.

Other old establishments are Preston Williams, who has
been one of the town's merchants since about 1904; and
Homerville Drug Company, Dr. J. G. Colwell, proprietor,
which has been in business here since 1906.

Besides these, there are S. A. Sweat & Company, general
store; Sweat Feed Company, hay and grain; A. N. Cars-
well, general store; R. M. McLaughlin, market; J. Leon
Pafford, market; Homerville Grocery Company, E. D. Brin-
son, proprietor, groceries; Clinch County Drug Co., B. E.
Blitch, proprietor; Homerville Hardware & Furniture Com-
pany, T. R. O'Steen, proprietor; and the City Bakery, Dr.
L. S. M alone, proprietor.

A modem garage is operated by Mr. H. M. Pcagler, who
has the agency for the Ford automobiles for this county.

The town's telephone system was established in 19 10 by
H. J. Dame, who sold it out in January, 19 14, to Claude
Harvey, of Bronwood, Ga. Mr. Harvey removed here and
took charge of the business. It is now under the manage-
ment of the Homerville Telephone Company, a partnership
composed of Mr. Harvey and W. J. Barlow. Their tele-
phone lines penetrate Mud Creek district, and extend to every
district in the county except Withers' and Moore's mill dis-
tricts. There is also an automobile delivery business in con-
nection with the telephone business.

In 1 9 13-4, an electric light and water plant was installed
by Messrs. J. F. Bamhill and J. H. Ferdon, two of the town's
most substantial citizens. This need has been realized in

54 History of CUnch County^ Georgia

Homerville for several years and its advent was much desired.
The water is pumped from a distance of about nine hundred
feet beneath the surface of the ground. There are about
twenty-six street lights, which are maintained by the town.
As yet the town has no sanitary system.

Elsewhere in this work will be found descriptions of
Homerville's two fine churches and of its magnificent school
building. These buildings are monuments to the town and
would be a credit to much larger towns.

Homerville's postmasters for the last twenty-five years,
are few. Dr. Mattox, in the days of the stage-coach, was his
own postmaster, before the town came into existence. For
many years during and following the war, the two positions
of postmaster and railroad and express agent was consoli-
dated. Joel Strickland held this position here several years
after the war, as did also Abraham Mallette. About 1875
to 1 88 1, Josiah Sirmans was postmaster. After him was
Sherod Smith, who died in 1891. The next postmaster was
S. A. Sweat, who served until about 1894. Mrs. D. C. Gil-
lican was postmistress until 1898, when D. E. Kirkland was
was appointed. Mr. Kirkland was postmaster for fifteen
years, or until his death, November 30th, 19 13. Folks Hux-
ford then served a few months as acting postmaster, when
Flem C. Dame was appointed and took charge in April, 19 14.
He is the present postmaster.

THE LIFE OF JOHN H. MATTOX.

The founder of Homerville, John Homer Mattox, was a
son of Col. Elijah Mattox, and was bom in Tattnall County,
March 26th, 1817. When he was quite a young boy, his
father moved to Ware County, where they settled.

The country was then wild, having no railroads, and was
sparsely settled, but under the lead of such men as John H»
Mattox, has grown wonderfully and has been developed
very much. Colonel Mattox (Elijah Mattox) , in the course
of time was granted much land from the State, lying in this

History of Clinch County, Georgia 55

county. Among his many lots were the two on which Homer-
ville is now located. These two lots eventually came into pos-
session of John Homer Mattox, at the death of his father,
along with other lots. This was about 1857.

Homer Mattox doubtlessly saw the future of a town which
might be built on this land. A railroad was coming its way
tnd the site was very near the center of the county. About
1859 the ^<^^^ was begun.

Among his public gifts, Mr* Mattox gave six acres of land
to the railroad as a means of inducing them to make his
place a station. Another was the court-house grounds.

While he never practiced his profession very much, yet he
was a physician of no little attainments. His brother. Dr. L.
C. Mattox, lived near town, and was a physican also.

Dr. Mattox's home was a very unpretentious one, located
in the southern part of town. It was built in a square shape,
out of good lumber. The proof of the stability of the house is
seen in the fact that it withstood the attacks of time for about
fifty years* The land is now owned by Mr* J. F. Patterson.

Mr. Mattox^s wife was Miss Lucinda M. Sheffield. Their
children were : Ruby ; Tonnie, who married W. A. Norman ;
Emma, who married Thomas Fogarty ; B. E. Mattox; Lucius
W. Mattox; Belle, who married William Parker; Homer
O. Mattox; Jefterson D. Mattox, and William S. Mattox.

His death occurred in Homerville, February 18th, 1895.
He was buried in the Homerville cemetery.

CHAPTER V.

The Civil War Period. — Lists of Troops From Clinch
County. — The Surrender. — Immigrants to Clinch County.

WHEN Abraham Lincoln was elected President of
the United States in i860, it became apparent that
the North and the South was hopelessly divided. As
a result the State of South Carolina seceded in December,
i860, and following this the Legislature of Georgia called a
State convention of delegates to be elected by the people, to
decide whether Georgia should secede from the Union or not.

In Clinch County, Hon. Benjamin Sirmans and Hon. T.
G. Ramsey were elected as delegates to the convention and
instructed to vote for secession. These gentlemen were prom-
inent citizens of the county and had the welfare as well as the
rights of their State and county at heart. Mr. Sirmans was
an early pioneer of the county, settling here in 1822, and was
a former State senator, while Mr. Ramsey had been living
here since 1853, and was subsequently a justice of the In-
ferior Court.

When the convention met at Milledgeville on the i6th of
January, 1861, with ex-Governor George W. Crawford as
president, eloquent and fiery speeches were made for and
against secession. On the final test vote, it was found that
164 delegates favored secession, while 133 favored co-oper-
ation with the fifteen other Southern States in securing con-
stitutional guarantees for the protection of their rights and
property. Following the result of the vote, Georgia was
then declared a free and independent republic, while the peo-
ple saw that an inevitable war would soon be on hand. In
February, 1861, the Southern Confederacy, ill-fated though
it was, was formed and Georgia entered it and thus became
one of the Confederate States.

It having become apparent that war was at hand, com-

History of Clinch County, Georgia 57

panics of volunteer troops were organized over the State.
In Clinch County, a company was formed at Stockton in
July, 1 86 1, which left for the front on July 31, 1861. It
was attached to the 29th Georgia Regiment and known as
Co. "H." Francis M. Jackson was elected captain.

A few months later another company was formed of
Clinch and Ware County men. It was under the command
at first of Col. William A. McDonald, and attached to the
26th Georgia and known as Co. "K."

Still a few months later another company was formed of
Clinch County men at Homerville. It was organized March
4th, 1862, and left for the front the 3rd of April. This
company was under command of Captain John Riley O'Steen
and was designated as Co. **G," 50th Georgia Regiment.

On the I St of January, 1863, another company was made
up at Homerville, which was attached to the 4th Georgia
Cavalry and known as Co. "I." It was under the command
of Col. John C. Nichols, who served throughout the war in
this capacity.

Other companies in which many Clinch County men en-
listed were: Co. "G," 29th Georgia; Co. "I," 29th Georgia;
Co. "C," 22nd Georgia Artillery; Co. "G," 51st Georgia
Regiment; Co. "H," 4th Georgia Cavalry, and Co. "I," 12th
Georgia regiment.

The 29th Regiment was under the command of Col. W. J.
Young and later Col. R. Spaulding. The 50th Georgia was
under the conmiand of Col. W. R. Manning, later Col. Peter
McGlashan. The 26th Georgia was under the command of
Col. Carey W. Styles, later Col. Edmund N. Atkinson, of
Camden County, and the 4th Georgia Cavalry was under the
conmiand of Col. Duncan L. Clinch, Jr., of Camden County.

During the war, this county was not invaded by any Fed-
eral troops; no battles were fought here and in this respect
the people fared better than those who lived in the northern
part of the State. Many people came to this county from
other sections, "refugeeing," as it was known. Supplies be-

58 History of Clinch County, Georgia

came very scarce and great suffering was found on nearly
every hand for the want of the necessities of life. The
"women-folks" and the slaves had to attend to the farm and
raise the crops.

Towards the last part of the great struggle, the age limit
was extended out each way so as to take in all the available
men of the Confederacy. Boys as young as sixteen, and men
as old as sixty, were taken into the army, and many of our |

older men of the present day joined the Confederate Army
when only lads.

In 1863, when President Lincoln issued his emancipation
proclamation, setting free the slaves of the seceding States,
many of the slaves on the farms of Clinch County refused
to go, and stayed on with their old masters. Among the
slave-owners who were heavily effected by the freeing of the
slaves were James C. Smith, William Register, Robert B*
Crum, Benjamin Sirmans and his sons, John Tomlinson and
Charles Strickland.

LISTS OF TROOPS.

The lists which are herewith given of the different com-
panies that went from Clinch County, is given as gathered
from various sources. It will be found to be reliable and in
practically all cases is authentic.

Those which are marked with an (*) were killed or lost
in the war. Clinch County lost many good men in this war.
Their ashes rest on the battlegrounds of the past and the
memory of their heroic and patriotic devotion to a lost cause
will serve to ever keep alive in the breasts of Clinch County
men and women, love and reverence for the cause in which
they and their comrades fought and died, and also to perpet-
uate in the hearts of our people the memory of the glorious
deeds and examples of self-sacrifice which were done and
made time and again in the interest of their cause and their
country*

History of Clinch County, Georgia 59

CO. ''g'' 29TH GEORGIA INFANTRY.

This company was organized of men, chiefly citizens of
Berrien County, but had several Clinch County men in it.
Only the names of a few privates from Clinch County are
given :

Captain :

Levi J. Knight, later Edward Carroll.

Lieutenants :

Ja^Mr Roberts, Simeon Griffin and John Hall.

Privates :

Mathis, James Touchston, Hardy Giddens, Atatthew

Mathisy Zachary Touchston, Richard Giddens, Moses

Mathis, Ezekiel Powell, John W. McK3ranie, John

Bradford, Clinton Powell, William McCranie, Richard

Bradford, Berry Knight, Geor^r* Touchston, Charles
Bradford, Brinson

CO. ''k'' 29TH GEORGIA REGIMENT.

This company was organised chiefly in Berrien County,
and was composed of men from Berrien, Lowndes and Clinch
Counties. The list given below consists of only a portion of
the company; not all is obtainable. The company was or*
ganized in 1861 at Milltown, in Berrien County. After it
arrived at the front, it was reorganized and attached to the
4th Georgia as Co. *'H." Many changes were made in the
personnel of the company before the war closed.

Officers elected before the reorganization :

John C. Lamb, captain.
James W. Staten, 1st Lieut.
Jonathan Knight, 2nd Lieut.
Zack Punish, 3M Lieut.

Officers elected at the reorganization :

Thomas S. Wiley, captain.
James H» Carroll^ Ist Lieut.
James W. Howell, 2nd Lieut.
James H. Dasher, 3rd Lieut.
Thomas P. Morgan, 1st Sergeant.
C. S. Touchston, 2nd Sergeant.
Burrill Bailey, Corporal.

History of Clinch County, Georgia

Other sergeants were:

Richard Tucker.
Robert Chisholm
B. A. Carter.
Perry Zeigler.

Other corporals were :

J. W. Carter.
John L. Tison.
William Martin.

Privates :

Arnold, C. W.
Allen, Hansford
Alderman, Richard
Ansley, Joseph
Baker, William
Bryant, J. E.
Byrd, William
Bevel, Granville
Baset, Jackson
Clayton, Malidge
Clayton, Alford
Cook, Charles
Clements, Walton
Clements, David
Chisholm, James
Carter, N. A.
Carter, Moses
Carter, J. J.
Collier, Henry
Chandler, John
Dees, Dan
Dees, Isaac
Duff, Mikell
Duggan, Arch
Da^er, Thomas
Futch, Reubin
Putch, John
Prazier, Byrd
Pletcher, Samuel

Fletcher, Gerry
Findley, A. B.
Griffin, William
Gray, Jack
Hightower, Byrd
Harper, Jackson
Howell, W. T.
Hurst, Dan
Herren, Charles
Hewett, John
Johnson, J. S.
Jones, Thomas
Jones, Dr.
Knight, John W.
Kinard, James
Lovejoy, J. L.
Lightsey, Geo.
Lightsey, Samuel
Locke, John
Money, John A.
McMillen, John
McFadden, Isaac
Morgan, E. C.
Moore, Levi
Martin, James
Miley, Wilbum F.
Morgan, David
Moody, Thomas
Moreland, Tige

Mahon, David D.
Nix, John
Purvis, Babe
Parmer, Alex.
Parmer, William
Roberts, William
Rentz, Artemus
Ross, James
Sirmans, Harris
Sirmans, Hardeman
Sirmans, Winfield
Swilley, Isham
Stuart, Thomas
Touchston, William
Touchston,C. S.
Tomlinson, James
Tatum, George J.
Tison, Simeon
Tison, William
Tucker, Richard
Vams, Samuel
Vining, Jesse
Vining, John
Watson, J. W.
Watson, Jacob
Waldron, L. O. G.
Wisenbaker, A. D.
Wisenbaker, J. S.
Youlds, Robert

ii^-^ff

CO. • H'' 29TH GEORGIA REGIMENT.

This company was organized at Stockton in 1861. After
it arrived at the front a reorganization was had and new of-
ficers elected. This regiment saw much hard service in the
battles around Atlanta in 1864, in which numbers of its
men were lost.

History of Clinch County, Georgia

Officers elected at Stockton :

Francis M. Jackson, Captain.
Jonathan Knight, 1st Lieut.
L. H. Roberts, 2nd Lieut.
D. C. Lancaster, 3rd Lieut.

Officers elected at reorganization:

Reubin Y. Stanford,* Captain.
W. H. O'Neal, 1st Lieut.
Matthew Roberts, 2nd Lieut.
Colonel W. Corbitt, 3rd Lieut.

Privates :

Burkhalter, James
Booker, James*
Byce, John*
Bjrron, J. W.
Corbitt, Monroe
Corbitt, C. W.
Corbitt, Reubin*
Carson, Thomas
Cartledge, WUey*
Clements, Lewis
Cameron, E. L. P.
Cameron, Dr.*
Carter, Jesse W.*
Corbitt, Newsom*
Daugharty, Arthur
Daugharty, Henry
Dame, James W.
Daugharty, James
Dunaway, Zephaniah*
Dorminy, John
Douglas, Millender*
Dawson, Cornelius*
Piveash, George
Piveash, John*
Green, Solomon*
Green, Henry*
Go£f, James*
Hart, Jesse
Hilliard, John*
Hamage, E. M.*
Higgs, Elisha

Higgs, Robert*
Higgs, Jasper*
Hamage, Guilford
Hall, Jesse
Henderson, Jim
Johnson, William*
Johnson, Bryant*
Johnson, Joseph
Jones, J. H.
Johnson, W. P*
Johnson, James*
Jacobs, John*
Kinard, George*
Lightsey, C. B.
Lastinger, Charles*
Lastinger, James*
Lastinger, Andrew*
Lancaster, Acy*
Lovejoy, Nathan*
Lieman, Lewis*

Lefler, *

McCardle, Randle
Mims, James
McGill, Peter*
North, Ephriam*
North, Caliph*
Nicholson, William*
Newbem, Ashley*
Newbem, Berry*
Oliver, Charles*

Permentcr, James*
Permenter, L. A.*
Permenter, Wright*
Roberts, Thomas*
Roberts, Sherod
Roberts, Steve*
Reddish, Joshua*
Stewart, Joshua
Staten, Samuel
Sherley, Jesse G.*
Storeman, John
Stanford, Mitchell*
Sirmans, Abner
Sutton, Moses
Tomlinson, Moses
Tomlinson, Guilford*
Tomlinson, Levin
Tomlinson, John G.
Tomlinson, Aaron
Tomlinson, Sherod
Touchston, Steve
Timmerman, John*
Vining, Judson*
Vining, James*
Watson, John
Worth, Wm. W.*
Wandle, John
Walden, Sylvester
Waldron, L. O. G.
Wilson, John

i*r>if

CO. Q 5OTH GEORGIA REGIMENT.

This company was raised at Homerville and organized
March 4th, 1862. It was attached to Mercer's Brigade, and
saw much service at Chancellorsville, Boonesboro, Freder-
icksburg, Gettysburg and other battles that Lee's army was in.

History of Clinch County, Georgia

Captains :

John R. 0*Steen,*
Isaac Burkhalter.*
Quarterman B. Staten.

Lieutenants :

Sergeants :

Corporals :

Quarterman B. Staten.
Jacob Watson.
L3rman A. Sirmans.
William Roberts.
Augustus Brack.
John Sirmans.*
Jacob S. Lightsey.

Isaac Burkhalter.*
Enoch Tomlinson.
C. W. Curry.
Mark Henderson.
Augustus Brack.
Guilford T. Lastinger
William M. Austin.
Martin S. Corbitt.

Joseph Tomlinson.*
Guilford A. Register.
David Lastinger.
John Sirmans.*

Privates :

Arnold, Henry*
Arnold, Madison
Alcox, Jesse
Baxley, William R.
Brady, John*
Brady, Thomas A«
Brady, Robert N.
Brady, Lewis J.
Brady, Samuel E.*
Brady, Samuel*
Bennett, William
Bennett, James
Bostic, Jesse S.
Brown, William
Bass, Archibald*
Bass, David
Bradc, Washington*
Chancey, Samuel
Clemmons, James
Cornelius, George
Cowart, Kindred
Corbitt, Manning*

Corbitt, WilHam*
Douglas, James
Griffis, Samuel
Griffis, Eli*
Guthrie, James*
Griffin, Enoch
Hunter, Madison*
Hall, Fleming
Hart, Berrien
Hamage, George
Hamage, Jerry*
Hamage, Jacob
Hughes, Isaac*
Holland, Redding*
Johnson, W. A. P.
Johnson, William
Johnson, John
Johnson, Riley
Johnson, Thomas
Jewell, Reubin
Jones, Abner*
Kirby, William

Leggett, George
Moore, William N.
Minshew, Jacob
Mizell, William*
Nipper, Hiram
Nipper, Joel*
Register, S, W.
Register, John T.
Register, G. A.
Roberts, James
Roberts, Moses*
Roberts, John*
Roberts, Mark*
Roberts, Isham
Register, Miles
Royals, William
Riggs, William
Smith, A. N.
Sears, Hiram*
Sears, James
Starling, Tharp*
Starling, Raymond

History of Clinch County, Georgia

Sirmans, Lewit*
Stalvey, Moses
Smith, Sirmans*
Thomas, Colon
Tomlinson, Harris

Tomlinson, Nelion*
Tomlinson, Thomas
Vining, Jasper
Walker, Henry
Walker, Joseph

Whitehurst, Jadcson
Weaver, Petw*
Waters, Jaxnes
Waters, Mack

it^ff

CO. ■ I' 4TH GEORGIA CAVALRY.

This company was organized at Homerville, January ist,
1863. It was attached to the 4th Georgia Cavalry under the
command of Col. Duncan L. Clinch, Jr., of Camden County.
This command was in the battles around Atlanta and also
participated in the battle at Olustee, Fla.

The following were its officers :

John C. Nichols, Captain.
Ezekiel J, Sirmans, 1st Lieut,
George W. Newbem, 2nd Lieut.
Harrison Jones, 3rd Lieut.
John G. Tomlinson, 1st Sergeant.
F. M. Jackson, 2nd Sergeant.
Peter Williams, 3rd Sergeant.

Privates :

Aldridge, 0.
Aspinwall, Matthew
Aspinwall, A. J.
Bailey, B. H.*
Byron, Charles
Byrd, Jesse
Burch, Charles
Bowen, William
Box, John
Box, William
Bennett, Wm. M.*
Byrd, W. M.*
Byrd, Parker
Bland, Timothy*
Cornelius, Edward*
Carter, W. M.
Cook, Charles
Cox, James
Cohen, W. M.
Courson, John
Carter, John
Crawford, Reubin
Chancey, G. W.
Carver, Gabriel R.
Cribb, RHey
Dryden, Aldridge
Dryden, Arch

Dryden, B. C.
Dyal, Aldridge
Dyal, David
Dickerson, J. R.
Chancey, W. H.
Fulwood, J. W.
Paircloth, W. M.*
Griffis, Elias
Griffis, William
Griffis, Joel G.
Guess, Crawford
Harris, G. W.
Hall, Seaborn
Gale, Thomas
Herren, Jackson
Hargraves, William
Hargraves, Hope
Hargraves, Sidney
Hargraves, John C.
Harris, James
Higgs, Elisha
Hemdon, Isham
Johnson, Riley
Jones, John
Johnson, William*
Jewell, Levi
Johnson, Robert

Kight, Cuyler
Right, Henry
Lee, James
Murray, Isaac
Murray, S. E.
McDonald, Jerry
Mathis, H. P.
Morgan, Lemuel*
Morgan, Alex.
Morgan, Joseph*
Morg:an, Thomas C.
Martin, James*
Martin, L. D.
Morgan, J. T.
Meeks, W. M.
Meeks, H.
Meeks, M.

Norman, Richard G.
Nail, J.
Ryals, Robert
Rich, John
Rich, G. B.
Roberts, S.
Petty, John B.
Stone, John
Sikes, Joe
Smith, J. H.

History of Clinch County , Georgia

Smith, WilUs
Smith, C. H.
Sirmans, B. J.
Swain, Joel
Stewart, Wm.
Sears, John
Stephens, John

Starling, Wm.
Skinner, Randal
Strickland, C.
Skinner, M.
Thomas, T. E.
Thomas, J. D.
Thomas, W. M.
Treist, Samuel

Teston, James
Thomas, Dave
White, G. W.
Williams, Elias
Walker, F. S.
Walker, W. M .♦
Walker, J. C*

CO. ''k'' 26tH GEORGIA INFANTRY.

This company was organized of men from Clinch and
Ware Counties, in 1861, and saw service in Virginia. The
first captain was William A. McDonald, while Cuyler W.
Hilliard was later elected. Both wer6 residents of Ware
County, while Thomas J. Ivey, the last captain, was at this
time a resident of Clinch. Captain Ivey is buried in the old
cemetery at Waycross.

Captains :

William A. McDonald.
Cuyler W. HiUiard.
Thomas J. Ivey.

First Lieutenants:

Cuyler W. HiUiard.
Thomas J. Ivey.
John L. Morgan, Jr.
John T. Harris.
B. L. McLendon.*

Second Lieutenants :

Privates :

William Miller.
Vinson A. Hodges.

Alcoxy Jesse*
Alcoxy Henry*
Agee, William
Agce, John
Box, Allen
Box, Richard A.
Agee, Andrew
Box, Joseph
Bailey, Aaron
Bailey, Tharp
Bailey, Joseph
Boatright, C. J. D.
Booth, James
Booth, William*

Booth, Jesse
Bennett, Tom
Bennett, D. H.
Bennett, Randall
Bennett, John
Bennett, Martin
Carmichael, John
Carmichael, D. C.
Courson, Pliney W.
Courson, John T.
Cason, B.

Chauncey, John M.
Chauncey, Samuel
Chauncey, Mark*

Griffis, Joel
Goette, Allen
Goette, Jeflf
Hodges, Vinson A.*
Hodges, Francis M.*
Henderson, Andrew J.
Henderson, J. T.
Holt, Greenberry
Harris, Joseph
HaU, Bill
Hall, Hiram
Howell, Joe*
Inman, James M.
Johnson, Benj.

H. J. PEAGLER
Mayor of Homerville
President of the Bank of Homerville and benefactc
Homerville Methodist Church. Died 1913.

History of Clinch County, Georgia

Jones, John*
Joyce, William
Jefferds, J. M.
Kight, John
Kight, James M.
Miller, James*
Moore, Elias L.
Morgan, Martin Z.
Morgan, Thomas P.
Morgan, Hampton
Morgan, Lemuel*
McLendon, Ephriam
Miller, Tom
Miller, James M.
Miller, John H.
Murray, S. C.
Nettles, James
Nettles, Thomas

Nunez, W. P.
Nunez, Cole
Riberon, David M.
Roberts, Gray*
Rowland, Bill
Strickland, W. J.
Smith, William
Smith, Harrison*
Smith, Lawrence
Smith, Moses
Smith, Manning
Smith, Lewis
Smith, Benjamin
Smith, James M.
Smith, Daniel
Smith, Wade
Smith, Allen
Smith, Charles

Smith, Alfred
Stephens, James
Sears, Hiram, Jr.
Sweat, Farley
Sweat, John P.
Sweat, Rowland
Sauls, HoUiday
Sauls, O. J.
Summerlin, Payton
Summerlin, Julius
Summerlin, John
Sweat, John, Jr.
Tooten, Alex.
Williams, H. P.
Williams, J. S.
Williams, Bill*
Wilkerson, Jack
White, Tom*

JOHN R. O'STEEN.

John Riley O'Steen was one of Clinch County's ablest
men and had he survived the war, it is probable that he
would have achieved renown other than military honors.
As it was, he gave his life in the interest of the Confederacy.

He was bom in Ware County, about 1825. His educa-
tion was such as could be acquired from his parents or neigh-
bors, as schools were practically unknown to this section. He
grew up to be a fearless young man, energetic and industrious.
By hard dint he accumulated several lots of land and other
property. He married Miss Jane James about 1850, and
had the following children: Eliza (Monk), Benjamin, Jon-
athan, James A., Mariah (Bass) , Bryant and Daniel O'Steen.
All these sons grew up to be among the county's best citizens.
In 1858, Mr. O'Steen was narrowly defeated by John Wil-
liams for representative from Clinch County.

The Civil War coming on, Mr. O'Steen joined himself to
the cause with great fervor; In 1862 he joined Co. "G" 50th
Georgia, and he was elected captain of his company. This
regiment took part in all the important battles of the Army of
Northern Virginia. At the battle of Boonesboro, Md., Sep-
tember 4th, 1862, Mr. O'Steen was wounded quite seriously,
and died on the 23 rd of the same month. His service in the

66 History of Clinch County, Georgia

army was limited by death to six months and nineteen days.
He was survived by his wife and seven children, the oldest
of whom was hardly in her 'teens.

REUBEN Y. STANFORD.

Reuben Y. Stanford was a son of David Stanford, and was
bom in 1831. He was a brother-in-law to Hon. S. W. Reg-
ister. He was commisisoned a justice of the peace of the
1058th district, then of Clinch but now of Echols County,
April 4th, 1855, ^^^ re-conunissioned Jan. 15th, 1857. In
1852 he was defeated for State senator by Benjamin Sir-
mans, by seven votes. Mr. Stanford ran a store at Mag-
nolia for a few years previous to the war.

In 1 86 1 he joined the company of troops which was being
organized at Stockton. At the re-organization of the com-
pany, Mr. Stanford was elected its captain and served in this
capacity until 1864. At the battle of Franklin, Tenn., he
was seriously wounded in the leg and according to some,
was captured and taken to a Federal hospital, where he
died. Other versions are that he was not captured, but dis-
appeared very mysteriously. He has never been heard of
since and the account first given is regarded as the more
probable of the two.

ISAAC BURKHALTER.

Isaac Burkhalter was a son of Hon. Richard H. Burk-
halter and was born about 1830. He came with his father
to this county about 1845, ^^^ ^^ ^^57 was elected Justice of
the Peace of the 586th district. He served four years. In
1862 he joined Company "G" 50th Georgia, of which John
R. O'Steen was captain. In 1862 he was elected captain of
his company following the death of Captain O'Steen. He
was captain of his company at the battle of Gettysburg, and
was killed. Thus another distinguished son of Clinch
County was given up on the altar of Southern rights.

History of Clinch County, Georgia 67

OTHER CAPTAINS.

The other captains who were citizens of this county, viz. :
John C. NichoUs, Quarterman B. Staten, Francis M. Jack-
son, served the people in various public offices, and their
lives are treated elsewhere in this book. Captain Thomas J.
Ivey resided at Homerville for a few years following the
war, but at his death lived in Ware County. He is buried in
the old cemetery at Waycross.

THE SURRENDER.

On April 9th, 1865, General Robert E. Lee, commander-
in-chief of the Confederate Army, surrendered his army to
the Federals, and was followed a few days later by General
Joseph E. Johnston. By the first of June all the Confed-
erates had surrendered, and thus the great war came to a
close, leaving the whole South destitute and exhausted.

IMMIGRANTS.

During the war and for a few years following, there was
a steady influx of new settlers. This county escaped the ter-
rors of an invading army, which may account for the new
citizens to some extent.

Robert B. Crum removed to Clinch County and settled
near Homerville in 1862. He came from Camden County.
He and his wife were devoted members of the Methodist
Church, and soon after their removal here organized about
the earliest Sunday School in the county.

Abraham Mallette was a relative of Mrs. Crum's, and
came here from Camden County during the war. He was
station agent here awhile.

Thomas D. Hawkins also removed to this county during
the war, from Camden County, and settled at Stockton. He
was appointed ex-officio J. P. there in 1872, and held that
office two terms, after which he removed back to Camden
County. He was subsequently Mayor of St. Mary's a few
years.

68 History of Clinch County, Georgia

Henry H. TuUis **refugeed" to this county during the
war, and settled in the vicinity of Homerville. He, like
the other settlers, brought much property into the county,
such as slaves, etc. He was bom September 23rd, 181 8, and
his wife's name was Miss Rebecca Isabella Ferns. They
had several children, three of whom, E. M. and W. L.
TuUis and Mrs. William Saunders, now live in this county.
Mr. Tullis died in 1892.

Alexander, Lewis and Robert S. Holtzendorf also came
here during the great struggle, and settled at Stockton. They
likewise came from Camden County. Alexander Holtzen-
dorf was bom in 1808 and died in 1887 at Stockton, where
he is buried. His son, Robert S. Holtzendorf, was bora
in 1839 and was ex-officio J. P. at Stockton a few years
prior to his death in 1892. James A. Holtzendorf, a son of
R. S. Holtzendorf, is now and had been for many years
railroad agent at Stockton.

Daniel H. Stewart came to this county about 1863 and
settled near Homerville. He served as deputy clerk under
Clerk David O'Quin, and about 1867 removed back to
Chatham County, where he shortly afterwards died. His
wife, Elendor, survived him.

William Gaines removed here about 1864, and settled in
the Magnolia district. He lived on the lot of land whereon
Mr. M. S. Eason now lives. Mr. Gaines was a native of
Ireland, and served as county surveyor three years. He
removed to Savannah about 1875.

John G. Norton settled at Stockton about 1865, and
engaged in the mercantile business, later in the saw-mill
business. He was for many years a deacon of the Mis-
sionary Baptist Church at Stockton.

In 1865, John L. Courson removed to this county from
Charlton County, and settled in the Magnolia district. Next
year he was commisisoned a justice of the peace of the
970th district.

Joel L. Sweat came to Homerville in 1866, and the next

History of Clinch County, Georgia 69

year was elected a justice of the peace. He was admitted to
the bar in 1869, and lived here about twenty years. He
married a daughter of Sylvanus Hitch, of Homcrville.

Also about the same time E. T. Dukes located at Homcr-
ville and entered the mercantile business. In 1874 he re-
moved to Quitman, Ga. He served one term as clerk of the
Superior Court.

Also about the same time, George Dame, Sr., and George
A. Dame, his son, settled in this county. The elder Dame
died in 1867, while the latter was subsequently elected Sur-
veyor of Clinch County.

John J. Drawdy removed to Clinch County in 1869 from
Charlton County, and settled about three miles from Homer-
ville. In 1 9 14 he removed into town, where he is now living,
at the age of 86. His first wife was Elizabeth, daughter of
James Patten, of Berrien County, and a grand-daughter of
Joshua Lee, an old settler of Clinch County. His sons, C.
C. and S. L. Drawdy are prominent citizens of Homerville.

James Dampier and his family removed to this county
about 1866 and settled several miles above Stockton. They
came from Brooks County. A son, James O. Dampier, is
now living, while a daughter, Angie, married George D.
Gibbs, later J. J. Drawdy. The elder Dampier was bom
August 1st, 1823, and died July 15th, 1880.

William W. Griffin, a Methodist minister, came to
Homerville during or very soon after the war. He was sub-
sequently elected Ordinary of Clinch County. He died in
DeKalb County in 1879.

Peter A. Herviant came to DuPont or Lawton as it was
then called, shortly after the war, and served as station
agent there for about forty years. He married the widow
of J. P. A. DuPont. Mr. Herviant died in 1907. He was
a native of Macon, Ga.

In 1867 Thomas Jones settled in this county. He was the
father of John C. Jones, for many years tax receiver of

70 History of Clinch County, Georgia

Clinch County, and of Thomas N. Jones. They were natives
of Sampson County, N. C.

Malcobn C. Futch came to this county from Berrien
County about 1871, and settled in the Magnolia district.
He married Amanda Smith, a daughter of Peter Smith, and
had several children. He is yet living at the age of 80.

In 1869, Solomon Mobley removed to this county and
settled on the Suwannee River. He came from Appling
County, where he was born March 13th, 1822. His wife
was Mary Mann, and they lived in Appling County at
Mann's Ferry on the Altamaha River. At the time Mr.
Mobley removed to the Suwannee River, it was a wild, un-
developed country, and no roads. He took the old trail
established during the Indian war and built a log house
down there to live in. It was not supplanted with a frame
house until the advent through that section, about 1900, of
the G. S. & F. R. R. Mr. Mobley raised eleven children,
eight of whom are living. He died May 4th, 1907, and is
buried at the North cemetery.

John W. Langdale was a prominent citizen and early
settler of the 1219th district. For many years this section
of the county was very sparsely populated, even after the
Civil War. The country was very wild, but of late years
has been wonderfully developed. Mr. Langdale was bom
in Echols County in i860. He came to this county in 1884,
and settled near where Council, Georgia, now is. His wife
was Miss Nancy Burnsed; they had eight children. His
son, John J. Langdale, is now a member of the Board of
Education of Clinch County, and another son, Harley
Langdale, is a prominent lawyer of Valdosta, where he was
in 191 6 elected recorder of the police court. Mr. Langdale,
Sr., died June 14th, 191 1. He had accumulated much prop-
erty and was a highly esteemed citizen. His family was
originally from South Carolina and settled first in Cam-
den County, later in Echols County.

CHAPTER VI.

Condition of the County Following the Close of the War. —
Politics. — Condition of the County Treasury. — Burning
of Court-Housc. — New Jail. — ^Thc History of DuPont.
— ^The History of Stockton. — Temperance.

A FTER the great war closed, it left this portion of the
aA South like the rest, desolate. But the people soon set to
^ "^ work with vim and energy to rebuild their burned homes
and reclaim that which was lost and destroyed. The husbands
and fathers lost in the war were replaced by growing sons, and
the women took hold of the plow-handle and strived to earn a
livelihood for the family with as much determination as the
men.

Clinch County shared in the desolation brought on by
the war. Although there were no battles fought here, nor
any armies encamped here, still the keenness of the war's
desolation was felt.

It was with the hardest difficulty that the people managed
to pay the taxes for several years following the war. In
many counties the time for collecting tax was extended for
nearly a year beyond the regular time. In this county the
grand juries at different terms of the Superior Court recom-
mended that grand jurors receive one dollar per day for their
services. At one term of the court it was recommended that
no jury scrip be issued at all on account of the condition of
the treasury.

In i860, the value of property in Clinch County was, ac-
cording to the tax books, $1,304,429. In 1868, the value was
$448,257, a decrease of 65 per cent. The County had not
fully recovered from it in 1884, for the value of property
that year was only $792,484. The tax digest of Clinch
County for 1 9 15 showed that the total value of all property
in the county was $2,146,107, exclusive of the railroads and

72 History of Clinch County, Georgia

telegraph lines which amounted to $1,265,051 in addition to
the other. The figures show the comparative condition of
the county.

POLITICAL.

Following the close of the war, came the effort on the part
of Northern schemers and renegade Southerners to get con-
trol of the negroes and their votes, disfranchise the native
Southern whites who participated in the war, and thus gain
control of the country.

The "Ku-Klux" clan, which played such an important part
in other sections, was not operated here on an extensive
scale, — indeed, no traces of it are found at all in Clinch
County.

Stringent orders were issued by the military authorities of
the State, all aimed at those who aided the Confederate cause.
In 1868, Rufus B. Bulloch, Radical candidate, was elected
governor of the State, defeating John B. Gordon, the Demo-
cratic candidate. Clinch County in this election gave a ma-
jority for Bulloch, due to the preponderating vote of the
negroes. Echols County went Democratic by a nice majority,
while Lowndes went for Bulloch. In Valdosta, negro police-
men, sworn in for the purpose, patrolled the streets during
the three days of the election. At this same election, New-
som Corbitt was elected State senator, Guilford Lastinger
representative from Clinch County, and Martin S. Corbitt,
tax collector of the county, on the Radical ticket.

It is found from the records of the legislative session of
1868 that our senator and representative voted for the four-
teenth constitutional amendment, which was so particularly
odious to the Southern people. But to have voted against the
bill would have been hazardous and might have meant the
loss of their seats. Moreover, there was a large number of
negroes and northerners who served in this legislature, and
Clinch County was very fortunate to have her own sons
to represent her there.

History of Clinch County, Georgia 73

Prior to the election, a Democratic mass meeting was held
in Homerville, September ist, 1868. It was largely attended
and in it were representative citizens from each section of
the county. Mr. Basil G. O'Brian was elected chairman
and Hon. David O'Quin, secretary. The purpose of the
meeting was to elect delegates to the Democratic district con-
vention at Blackshear to nominate a Democratic candidate
for Congress from the first Congressional district. The fol-
lowing delegates were chosen : David Johnson, U. VanGeiscn,
J. L. Sweat, L. C. Mattox, D. J. Sirmans, and C. A. Smith,
and the following alternates were chosen: Z. King, David
O'Quin, Thomas J. Ivey, D. D. Mahon, Simon W. Hitch,
and W. W. Griffin. At this meeting, strong and vigorous res-
olutions were passed not only pledging their support to the
Democratic ticket, but also not to employ any negro, or sell
any land to any negro or rent him land or otherwise in any
way render any aid to any negro who worked or voted for
the Radical ticket in the coming election. This is very im-
portant, as it throws much light on the times.

The Democratic district convention at Blackshear, to which
the above named delegates were elected, met on Sept. i6th,
1868, with the following delegates from Clinch present:
D. J. Sirmans, C. A. Smith and Thomas J. Ivey. Hon. A. H.
Hansell, of Thomasville, was nominated over three
opponents.

In 1870, at the next election, not one Radical was elected
to office in Clinch County. The Radicals or Republicans,
never afterwards elected any of their candidates in Clinch
County.

In 1876 a split occurred in the Democratic party in Clinch
County, which resulted in the election of Lewis Strickland,
independent candidate, to the legislature. The split seems to
have been caused in the following manner: A meeting of
Democrats was called by the chairman. Col. J. L. Sweat, to be
held in Homerville on July ist, 1 876, for the purpose of nom-
inating a Democratic candidate for representative. The first

74 History of Clinch County, Georgia

matter to be attended to in the meeting was the election of
delegates to the State Democratic convention in Atlanta to
nominate a candidate for governor. A new chairman was
elected, W. B. N. Crews. The chairman appointed a com-
mittee to retire and select the delegates to Atlanta. This
committee elected Sherod Tomlinson, J. G. Tomlinson, Irwin
R. Booth, D. J. Sirmans, A. J. Caswell and J. L. Sweat as
delegates. The act of the chairman in selecting a commit-
tee was demurred to by a certain faction, but in vain. Lewis
Strickland and the Mud Creek delegation withdrew, followed
by a majority of the other delegates. The remaining dele-
gates nominated Jonathan L. Morgan for representative, and
adjourned in regular order. Mr. Strickland then declared him-
self an independent candidate for representative, and although
only 26 years of age, commenced an aggressive campaign.

Great dissatisfaction followed, and the regular Demo-
crats feared for the existence of the party in the county. A
meeting was called for the third Saturday in July, following
the meeting of July ist, to harmonize matters if possible and
bring about some amicable settlement. In the meantime,
Shimuel Timmerman declared himself also an independent
candidate, as did also I. T. McLendon, Guilford Lastinger
and A. B. Findley. The mass meeting to harmonize matters,
was duly held and efforts made to get both Mr. Strickland
and Mr. Morgan to come down and support a new candidate.
Mr. Timmerman retired from the race, and endeavored to
prevail on the others to do likewise, but they would not.

The election was duly held in October following, and the
vote resulted as follows: Strickland, 362; Morgan, 251;
McLendon, 81; Lastinger, 26; and Findley, 15. Therefore,
Mr. Strickland and his supporters were vindicated at the
polls. Mr. Strickland was re-elected two years later as an
independent.

Harmony was finally restored in the party, which con-
tinued until the advent of the Third Party, or Populists,
about 1890.

History of Clinch County, Georgia 75

BURNING OP COURT-HOUSE.

During the summer of 1867 the court-house at HomerviUc
was burned. Like the burning of the court-house at Mag-
nolia in 1 856, it was never ascertained how the fire originated,
but it was generally thought to be incendiary. It was burned
at night, and all the records for the previous ten years were
destroyed, including the deed records. It happened at a most
unfortunate time, for the county, as the county was in very
poor condition following the close of the war. The destruc-
tion of the records, especially the deed records, has been sadly
realized of late years.

A contract was soon afterwards awarded by the Inferior
Court to James Russell, a resident of Homerville, for the
building of a new court-house. Mr. Russell was a native of
Scotland and a carpenter by trade. He also engaged in the
saw-mill business a short while.

During the interval between the burning of the old court
house and the completion of the new one, a store house in
Homerville was rented from Sylvanus Hitch, which served
as a court-house until the new one was finished. The new
building was a somewhat small-sized one, of two stories with
stair-steps on the outside of the building. It was built of good
lumber, and served until the erection of the new brick court-
house in 1895-6.

The Grand Jury at the September adjourned term, 1868,
recommended that "the room upstairs in the court-house be
reserved for religious purposes for the various denominations
for all time to come.'*

CONDITION OF THE TREASURY.

The condition of the county treasury was like that of the
State treasury at this time, — depleted, and the county in debt.
The presentments of the Grand Jury at the March term,
1868, shows the treasurer, David O'Quin, had paid out
$34.00 over and above what he received.

The report of the committee of the Grand Jury at the

76 History of Clinch County, Georgia

September adjourned term, 1868, shows the county in debt
$500 exclusive of the indebtedness for the court-house. This
was caused by the building of the new court house.

At the April term, 1869, ^^^ Grand Jury reported that the
county was in debt $ i ,044.00 besides expenses of the present
term of court; amount in treasury $122.00. At the June
adjourned term, 1870, the indebtedness appears reduced to
$700.00 of which $400.00 was the court-house debt. At the
October term, 1871, the indebtedness was only $300.00; at
this term of court, it was recommended that no jury scrip be
issued. At the October term, 1872, the report signed by
E. L. Moore, Aaron Moore and Moses Tomlinson, com-
mittee, showed a balance in the treasury of $21.34. It appears
that the county managed to keep a balance in the treasury
from then on.

TRANQUILITY.

Although the freed blacks became a menace to the country,
yet our county fared very well in this respect. By reference
to the Grand Jury presentments, October term, 1869, it is
observed that "the county and our people are to bp congrat-
ulated upon the improved condition of our community, both
in reference to the suppression of crime as well as any dispo-
sition to lawlessness." Later at the October term, 1871, it
is noted that "our county is in a most tranquil state, there
being little or no crimes committed or turmoil existing within
our borders."

NEW JAIL.

For several years following the war, Clinch County did
not have a jail in which to incarcerate her prisoners. About
1 87 1 it became apparent that a new jail was needed. The
Grand Jury, at the April term, 1871, recommended the build-
ing of a new jail, but the succeeding Grand Jury discounte-
nanced the plan and recommended that the county wait until
it was in a more prosperous condition.

At this stage of the matter, Col. J. L. Sweat appeared

History of Clinch County, Georgia 77

before the Grand Jury at the fall term, 1873, ^^^^ ^ P^^^
and set of specifications for a new jail, with the offer that he
would bear one-third of the expense if the Grand Jury would
recommend it built. It was duly recommended, and from the
Ordinary's minutes it is found that after duly advertising for
bids, the contract was let out by the Ordinary to A. E. Smith
for $300.00. The size of the jail was twelve feet wide and
eighteen feet long, two stories high, with double walls twelve
feet high, built of hewn logs six inches thick. It was a very
small building compared to the present jail, but amply met
the demands of the time.

The Grand Jury, at the term of court following the com-
pletion of the jail, unanimously voted its thanks to Colonel
Sweat for his liberal and patriotic spirit in the building of
the jail.

DUPONT.

The beginning of the town of DuPont may be traced back
to about 1858, when Mr. J. P. A. DuPont removed his fam-
ily to this point from Darien, in Mcintosh County. He built
an elegant home and in the course of a year a new railroad
came through this section and by Mr. DuPont's home.

With the building through of the railroad, came the re-
moval of the county site from Magnolia to some point on the
railroad. Mr. DuPont endeavored to have it removed to
where he lived, which was called "No. 12" by the railroad
people for many years, but Dr. J. H. Mattox offered the best
inducements to have it removed to the present town of Homer-
ville.

At first it was known as Suwannoochee, a name borrowed
from the creek nearby, but later it was re-named Lawton, and
as such was known until 1874, when the name was changed
to DuPont by the Act of the Legislature incorporating the
town.

The small station did not grow much until the war was
over. In 1874 the town of Lawton was incorporated as the

I
1

78 History of Clinch County, Georgia

town of DuPont by an Act of the Legislature approved
March 3rd, 1874. Under this act the following commis-
sioners for the town were appointed: Peter A. Herviant,
David J. Sirmans, Jacob Lightsey, Lucius Sirmans and B. W.
Patterson. They were to serve until the first Saturday in
January, 1875, ^^^ thereafter an election was to be held
annually for their successors. The corporate limits were fixed
at one-half a mile to extend in each direction from the depot.

In 1884 the town was again incorporated by an act ap-
proved December 20th, 1884. Under this charter the fol-
lowing officers were appointed to serve until the next regular
election for town officers: J. P. A. DuPont, mayor; B. J. Sir-
mans, Peter A. Herviant, Jacob Lightsey, Sr., Jacob Moody,
Sr., and Willis B. Gibbs, councilmen. The town election was
to be held on the first Saturday in January of each year.

In 1889, DuPont was re-incorporated as a city. The act
placed all the powers of a city government in the officers,
and a city court with a recorder, and a mayor and eleven
aldermen. This act was passed at a time when the town had
prospects of soon being a city and at a time when one or two
new railroad lines were being contemplated running through
by DuPont. The town's hopes failed to materialize and with
this, the city government contemplated in the act creating it
as a city, fell through.

In 191 1, the charter granted in 1889, was repealed and a
new charter granted, by an act approved August 1 9th, 1 9 1 1 .
Under this act DuPont was incorporated as a town, with the
following officers to serve until the regular election for town
officers to be held on the first Wednesday in December fol-
lowing: C. M. McLamb, mayor; P. M. Lee, Ezckiel, S. Sir-
mans, L. E. Cox, J. B. Coon, and P. A. Register, councilmen.
Elections for town officers are held every two years beginning
the first Wednesday in December, 191 1.

Among the early settlers of the town may be mentioned:
William H. Clifton, Peter A. Herviant, W. J. Nichols, Jacob
Lightsey, Jacob S. Lightsey, Lucius Sirmans and B. W. Pat-

History of Clinch County, Georgia ' 79

terson. Subsequent citizens who became prominent were : T.
McMillan, B. J. Sirmans, Lyman A. Sirmans, R. Lieberls,
G. A. Register, P. A. Register and M. Sirmans.

The following residents of DuPont have served as county
officers : Jacob Lightsey, L. A. Sirmans, P. M. Lee, Augustus
DuPont, G. A, Register, P. A. Register, Tarlton McMillan,
J. B. Coon, and A. J. Gibbs.

Several attempts have been made to have the county site
removed to DuPont. The first as mentioned above, was when it
was removed in 1859 from Magnolia to Homerville. Later,
in 1885, i^ ^^^ again attempted and a petition circulated
among the voters to call an election, which the Ordinary did,
setting the date as July 3rd, 1885. In this election DuPont
won by a majority of five votes, but the law requiring a two-
thirds majority, it lost out. Still later, in 1893, another peti-
tion was presented asking for an election, which was granted
by the County Commissioners. It was held May 27th, 1 893,
but in this DuPont lost again. This last time was about the
time a new court-house was to be built, and naturally it was
the proper time in which to decide whether to remove it to
DuPont or not. Since then the agitation has died down,
leaving Homerville the county seat.

The founder of DuPont, as has been stated above, was
Capt. J. P. A. DuPont, a man of signal ability, from Darien,
Georgia. He died at his home where DuPont now is, in 1863.
A sketch of his life is given elsewhere in this book. His sons,
J. P. A. DuPont, Jr., Charlton DuPont and Lee L. Dupont,
were all brilliant men. The last named is still a resident of
DuPont, where he lives in the old family home erected
before his father's death.

In 1876 a new militia district was created with DuPont
as the site of the district court-house. The first justice of the
peace of this district was John T. Courson, the first ex-officio
J. P. was David J. Sirmans, and the first constable was Willis
B. Gibbs.

8o History of Clinch County, Georgia

The population of DuPont according to the census of 1 910,
was 342.

The present merchants of DuPont are: P. A. Register,
P. M. Lee & Sons, and C. M. McLamb. The postmaster at
DuPont for several years prior to his removal to Savannah
about 191 2, was R. Lieberls, who also was a merchant. Fol-
lowing his resignation, Mr. C. M. McLamb was appointed.

STOCKTON.

The land whereon the town of Stockton is now situated,
was originally owned by Samuel Register, Sr., the progenitor
of the Register family in Clinch County. When the Atlantic
& Gulf Railroad was being constructed through the county,
during 1858-60, Mr. Register anticipated the need of a sta-
tion and town at this point, consequently he had the land run
out into town lots and settlers were induced to come and locate
there. Mr. Ezekiel Clifton was employed by Mr. Register
to lay off the land into town lots. In this task, Mr. Clifton
was assisted by Moses Tomlinson, who later served the peo-
ple as both ordinary and tax collector. Mr. Tomlinson was
then only 19 years of age, and assisted as chain-carrier.

When first settled, the little village was known as Regis-
terville, in honor of Mr. Register. Subsequently the name
was changed to Stockton, in memory of a Mr. Stockton who
was in charge of the grading of the railroad while it was
being built through by Registerville.

Among some of the first settlers were : Eli O. and Talbot
S. Morgan; E. W. and R. B. Prescott, who owned a store
there; K. M. Oppenheimer, who also ran a store; James G.
Ockington, a lawyer; Lewis Levi and two other Jews, named
Sterne and Davis, each of whom ran a store. William W.
Peyton came here as a school teacher and subsequently served
as a Justice of the Peace. Also about this time Samuel Staten
settled there. Mr. Ockington, named above, lived at Stock-
ton a year or so and removed. James W. Staten, who
was the first representative from Clinch in the Legislature,

■■■

History of Clinch County, Georgia 8 1

built the first store house at Stockton. He contracted with the
railroad company to furnish them cross-ties, and in connec-
tion with this business he operated a commissary in which he
enjoyed the patronage of the railroad employees at this point.
Mr. Staten was one of the largest land owners in that section
of the county.

In the employment of Mr. Samuel Staten was a North
Carolinean, J. W. Bryon, who, on account of his integrity,
is worthy of mention. When the Civil War came on, he
joined Co. **H" 29th Georgia, and went to the front. He
served faithfully in this company until the close of the war,
when he returned to his native State.

Dr. Ulysses A. Rice came from North Carolina and set-
tled in the vicinity of Stockton about 1857, ^^^ lived there
until about 1861. He was an active member of the Baptist
Church and had his membership at Carter's Bridge Church.
Dr. Rice owned some very choice land in the vicinity of
Stockton, which he purchased from James W. Staten, the
purchase price being about $6,000.00.

About 1868, the Baptist Church at Carter's Bridge on the
AUapaha River, was moved to Stockton through the activity
of John G. Norton, John Touchston and the pastor, Rev.
Thomas Powell. The Methodist Church was subsequently
erected.

Among the new comers to Stockton following the close of
the war were John G. Norton, Frank Sloat, N. E. Fry and
John C. Humphreys. These men were prominently identified
with different commercial enterprises in and around Stockr
ton. Also there was G. G. Foreman, Alexander and Robert
S. Holtzendorf and J. R. G. Hamilton, who removed there
about this time. David D. Mahon came to Stockton about
i860 from where Milltown now is, and subsequently served
as a justice of the peace.

Among the leading citizens of Stockton to-day, are J. Floyd
Fender, Sr., Harris A. Tomlinson, James A. Holtzendorf,

82 History of Clinch County, Georgia

Joseph S. Foreman, James A. Mathis and D. O. Johnson.
The last named is president of the County Board of Educa-
tion. The community around Stockton is almost as densely
populated as the town is, and to mention by name a few of the
leading citizens out of town, are : William B. North, a mem-
ber of the Board of County Commissioners, E. Y. Fry, Staten
B. Tomlinson, Moses Tomlinson, E. J. Futch, T. J. Johnson,
I. W. Allen, C. K. Green and Charles S. Touchston.

When the local school district plan was first inaugurated
in Clinch County, Stockton was among the first to take it up.
They have, within the last few years, erected an attractive
and commodious school building. It is a two-story frame
building. The present local school trustees are: James A.
Mathis, J. Floyd Fender, Sr., and J. A. Holtzendorf.

The present commercial enterprises of Stockton are : Holt-
zendorf Brothers, H. A. Tomlinson and H. L. Tomlinson,
and A. H. Timmerman, each of whom operates mercantile
establishments: D. O. Johnson, who owns and operates a
grist and saw-mill, J. Floyd Fender, Sr., turpentine operator,
and Miss Mattie A. Dees, millinery and dry goods. Mr. H.
L. Tomlinson is postmaster.

Stockton is situated in the western part of the county, and
is about two miles distant from the AUapaha River. The
most fertile and productive land in the county is in this sec-
tion and the farms around Stockton are numerous. This sec-
tion is also very scenic.

Stockton was among the leaders in the temperance cru-
sade in Clinch County. At the request of the Stockton citi-
zens, an Act was passed by the Legislature, approved Au-
gust 31st, 1 88 1, which forever prohibited the selling of
liquor and intoxicating drinks within the limits of Stockton,
and it was made a misdemeanor for a violation of the same.

County officers who have been elected while citizens of
Stockton and vicinity : Shimuel Timmerman, Timothy Alder-
man, Moses Tomlinson^ Quarterman B. Staten, James W.

History of Clinch County, Georgia, 83

Staten, Jackson J. Taylor, J. R. G. Hamilton, John C.
Humphreys, D. C. Fender, John Knight, W. B. N. Crews,
! William B. North and Joseph O. Rogers.

TEMPERANCE.

Following the war, license to sell liquor in Clinch County
was very cheap, in the neighborhood of twenty-five dollars.
^ It proved to be a very lucrative business and several bar-

rooms were put up in Homerville, DuPont and Stockton.
Practically all the general stores had barrooms in connection.
The misery and degradation, poverty and riotousness which
follow in the wake of the barroom and its customers, were
experienced here. As a consequence a heavy tax was soon
placed on it.

The town commissioners of Homerville in 1876 placed the
license to sell liquor at $ 1 00.00. In the Legislature of 1 8 80- 1 ,
our senator was C. A. Smith, and our representative was J. L.
Sweat. These gentlemen secured the passage and enactment
of a law, approved by the Governor August 3 ist ,1 88 1, which
taxed the selling of liquor in Clinch County at $1,500.00 per
annum. This had a great beneficial effect.

Still this tax did not prohibit the selling of liquor altogether.
But in 1889, when the Board of County Commissioners was
created, the act creating the board specified that the board
had the right to fix the amount of liquor licenses in Clinch
County, provided, they did not fix it at less than $10,000.00
per annum. As no one could afford to pay this huge amount
to sell liquor in a thinly-populated county as Clinch was, it
barred the selling of liquor from the country.

In a few years, an election was held under the local option
law, and Clinch County went **dry" in this election. The
county was under this law until the advent of the State prohi-
bition law in 1908.

CHAPTER VII.

Proposed New Railroads. — Efforts to Remove County Site.
— Newspapers in Clinch County. — ^The Populist Party. —
County Court Re-Established. — First Board of County
Commissioners. — New Jail. — New Court-House. — Camp
of Confederate Veterans Organized. — Population of
Clinch County. — ^Argyle. — Saw-Mill Enterprises. — ^The
Waycross & Western Railroad. — ^The Okefinokee Swamp.

IN 1886-7 a party of Clinch County citizens interested
themselves, together with some New York capitalists,
with a view of building a railroad from Macon via
DuPont to the Florida line; also a railroad extending from
DuPont to the Florida line, with its ultimate destination
Jacksonville, Fla., on the east, and extending from DuPont
westward to Decatur, Ala.

The first named road was incorporated as the DuPont,
Macon & Florida Railway Company, by the Legislature by
an Act approved September 22nd, 1887, with the following
incorporators: Augustus DuPont, F. B. Sirmans, Peter A.
Herviant, B. J. Sirmans, L. L. DuPont, M. Sirmans, H. G.
Powell and John C. Humphreys, of Clinch County, and Wil-
liam McCabe and John Lake, of New York City.

The other road was incorporated as the DuPont, Decatur,
Alabama and Florida Air-Line Railroad Company, by an Act
of the Legislature approved October 22nd, 1887, with the
following incorporators: Augustus DuPont, F. B. Sirmans,
Peter A. Herviant, L. L. DuPont, J. B. Withers, H. G.
Powell, B. J. Sirmans, Thomas Terry, Thos. G. Jenkins and
John C. Humphreys, of Clinch County, and H. B. Plant,
H. S. Haines, R. G. Fleming, George S. Haines, William
McCabe and John Lake, mostly of New York City.

Both of these roads were to be started within five years
from the date of the charters, or unless it was done the char-

* *

History of Clinch County, Georgia 85

ters were to become null and void. But the idea of building
of these roads never materialized, and the charters lapsed.
It is safe to say that had these two roads been built and put
into operation, they would have played a very important part
in the upbuilding of Clinch County and this section.

By an Act of the Legislature approved, September 28th,
1 88 1, the Georgia, Southern & Florida Railroad Company
was incorporated. The route named in this act was from
Macon to Homerville or DuPont, thence to the Florida line.
Later this act was amended by an amendatory act of the
Legislature, approved October i6th, 1885, making the route
from Macon via Valdosta, instead of by Homerville. Thus
the town of Homerville lost a very important enterprise which
has since become a very important factor in the upbuilding of
the city of Valdosta. The road subsequently traversed the
southern end of the county, along which several towns
sprung up.

It is safe to say that had the people of Homerville and
the county seized the opportunity and offered the necessary
inducements, and this road had come through Homerville
instead of Valdosta, in that event Homerville might have
been the size of Valdosta at present, while Valdosta would
have been the size of Homerville.

It was not built through the $outhern end of the county to
Jacksonville until about 1900. The building of this road
opened up a new section of the county hitherto undeveloped.
Almost simultaneously with the completion of the road to
Jacksonville, a big saw-mill was built by Eastern capitalists
on the new road where it crosses the Suwannee River. The
town which grew up here was named "Fargo." The partners
in this enterprise were George S. Baxter, E. P. Long and
Walton Ferguson.

The town of Fargo was laid out on the banks of the Su-
wannee River, and is to-day one of the most flourishing towns
in the county. It has several stores, a large hotel and other

> •

86 History of Clinch County, Georgia

establishments. The mills which are owned by G. S. Baxter &
Company, are about the largest in the county.

Within a very short time another large saw-mill was put
up six miles East of Fargo, on the new railroad, by the Amer-
ican Manufacturing Company, a corporation. Their mills
are about as large as the Fargo plant. The place was called
"Council," in honor of the principal owners of the mill, John
M. and C. M. Council, of Americus, Ga.

EFFORTS TO REMOVE COUNTY SITE.

In the beginning, the town of DuPont had a very auspicious
future, as the Florida Branch Railroad began here and run
into Florida. For many year3 DuPont was situated at the
head of the Florida business of the Plant System of railroads,
and as such was a very important center.

The fact that the town was centrally located in the county,
together with its bright future, brought about a great senti-
ment in favor of the removal of the county site from Homer-
ville to DuPont. A strong petition was presented to the
Ordinary in 1885 for an order calling an election to decide
the question of the removal, which the Ordinary granted.
Accordingly the election was called for July 3rd, 1885.
When the day to vote had arrived, great barbecues and other
attractions were given at DuPont and Homerville. At DuPont
a public ball was given in DuPont Hall. The result was a
majority of five in favor of the removal, but owing to the
fact that it required a two-thirds majority, DuPont lost.
The vote, given by districts, was as follows :

For Dupont For Homerville

Homerville 433

DuPont 344 8

Stockton 63

Mud Creek 83

Withers 30

Magnolia — 22

, History of Clinch County, Georgia 87

Morgan Dist. i 12

Low Deaver (1219)- 21

Argyle .- 8

Rabbitville (1061) 12

Total 521 516

In 1893 another attempt was made to remove the county
site to DuPont, but failed. No record of the vote in this
election is obtainable.

NEWSPAPERS.

About 1876 the first newspaper established in Clinch
County which there is any record of, was established at
DuPont by Mr. J. P. A. Dupont, named 'The DuPont Oke-
finokean." It enjoyed the patronage of the county, but in the
course of a year or so, failed. It was a weekly paper.

About 1882 a newspaper was established at Homerville by
E. J. Benton, which was named "The Wiregrass Cracker."
It became the official gazette of the county, but did not exist
very long. From an old copy in the Ordinary's office, dated
November 3rd, 1883, we note that the following lawyers'
cards appear: J. L. Sweat, James P. Mattox and B. A.
Whittington. The advertisements of the following merchants
appeared: W. T. Smith, W. A. Ecord, Joseph P. Mattox and
W. C. Newborn & Brother.

Mr. Benton, the editor, was a man of much ability and
intelligence, which he exhibited in several ways. He first
came to this county as a minister, in an evangelistic meeting.
He settled at DuPont, where he made one or two medicinal dis-
coveries which he had patented. At the October term, 1878,
of Clinch County Superior Court, he was admitted to the
bar, after which he practiced law a short while. He was a
great Sunday School worker, and was president of the Way-
cross Sunday School District Association.

In the early nineties, a newspaper was established at Du-
Pont, devoted to the interests of the Populist or Third Party.

88 History of Clinch County, Georgia

This paper, named the "DuPont Guide," was edited by Mr.
W. F. Miley, and took a leading part in its party's battles in
Clinch County. This paper finally ceased to exist about 1 896,
and as the official organ of the Populist Party in this section
was succeeded by the "Douglas Breeze," edited at Douglas,
in Coffee County, by Mr. A. B. Findley, formerly of Homer-
ville.

In the latter part of 1894, the "Homerville Chronicle"
was established at Homerville by Mr. M. E. Tison. In
November, 1897, this paper's name was changed to the
"Clinch County News," the name which it now bears. The
earliest copy of this paper obtainable is dated January 1 1 th,
1895, which is Number 9, Vol. i, showing that the paper was
only nine weeks old at that time. The following professional
cards appear in this issue: R. G. Dickerson, B. A. Whitting-
ton and S. L. Drawdy, lawyers; and Dr. G. R. Thigpen, all
of Homerville. The advertisements of the following local
merchants appear: C. Huxford & Company, C. Crawford,
and Dame Brothers, of Homerville, and Wideman & Moody,
of Argyle. The Crum House, of Homerville, and The Sir-
mans House, at DuPont, had advertisements.

The successive editors and publishers of this paper are:
1894-5, M. E. Tison; 1896, R. G. Dickerson; 1897, I. R.
Knight; 1897-8, M. E. Tison; 1899, Geo. M. Dame and
S. W. Register; 1900-7, George M. Dame; 1908, Town-
send & Dame; 1909, W. L. DuVall; 19 10, T. B. Hartig;
1910, B. W. Cornelius; 1910, H. J. Dame; 19 10-16, Flem C.
Dame.

THE POPULIST PARTY.

About 1890 a new party sprang into politics. For a while
it was known as the Third Party or Alliance, later as the
Populist Party. Among some of its leaders in Clinch County,
were : Dr. L. C. Mattox, M. S. Corbitt, W. A. Ecord, W. J.
Strickland and James M. Kight. In 1890 Dr. Mattox was
elected by this party as representative from Clinch County.

History of Clinch County, Georgia 89

At the same time W. A. Ecord was re-elected elerk of the
Superior Court by them. This was at the height of their
power; after this they never did succeed in electing any other
candidate in Clinch County. In recent years the party has
disappeared from county politics. In 1898 the average vote
received by them was 325 ; two years later it dwindled to an
average of fifty. The party has probably had its day and has
done the country some good. Some of the principles and
laws it first advocated have since been enacted into law, among
which might be mentioned the rural free mail delivery.

COUNTY COURT RE-ESTABLISHED.

In 1866 the first County Court of Clinch County was es-
tablished with Hon. Z. King as the first judge and Col. L. A.
Sirmans as the first solicitor. This court existed for about
three years, when it ceased. There is no legislative act abol-
ishing the court. In 1881 this court was revived, and Hon.
Cornelius A. Smith was appointed judge. There is no record
as to who was solicitor. In 1885 Col. B. A. Whittington
was appointed judge. This court had its monthly and quar-
terly terms. The monthly terms were held under Judge Smith
on every second Monday, while the quarterly terms were
held on the third Mondays in February, May, August and
November.

By an Act of the Legislature, approved October 19th,
1885, ^he County Court of Clinch County was abolished to
take effect when the term of Judge Whittington had expired.

In 1 90 1 the County Court was again established after
having been abolished fifteen years. Col. S. C. Townsend was
appointed judge for four years and Hon. R. G. Dickerson was
appointed solicitor. This court became the means of saving
much money to the county although the criminal jurisdic-
tion was limited to misdemeanors. Like the former County
Court, it has its monthly and quarterly terms; the monthly
terms being held on the first Monday in each month and the
quarterly terms on the first Tuesday in January, April, July,

90 History of Clinch County, Georgia

and October. Hon. S. L. Drawdy is the present judge and
Hon. W. T. Dickerson solicitor.

An attempt was made to abolish this court in 1908, but
failed.

FIRST COUNTY COMMISSIONERS.

The first Board of County Commissioners of Roads and
Revenues was created by Legislative Act, approved August
1 6th, 1889. Under this Act the following named citizens of ^

the county were appointed commissioners : Isham Patterson,
FVank B. Sirmans, Martin S. Corbitt, W. H. Gary and Fields
D. Clifton. The commissioners were given entire charge of
county matters and the clerk of the Superior Court was made
ex-officio Clerk of the Board. From the Minutes of the Board
in 1890 it is observed that the following were the commis-
sioners: W. H. Gary, chairman, M. S. Corbitt, F. B. Sir-
mans^ Isham Patterson and John Knight.

The Board was abolished by an Act of the Legislature,
approved December 9th, 1893, and the ordinary resumed
charge of county affairs. It remained thus until 191 5, when
the Board of Commissioners was again created.

NEW JAIL.

The old jail, erected about 1872, was found to be
insufficient to meet the demands of the county, as it was not
only too small, but was built of wood and was fast becoming
useless. Accordingly a contract was let out by the County
Commissioners in 1893 to the Manly Manufacturing Com-
pany, of Dalton, Ga. The new jail was built of brick with
improved steel cells and was two stories high. This jail is
now being used as the county jail, but there is some desire on
the part of many citizens to have a new jail built or some
needed extensive improvements made.

NEW COURT-HOUSE.

Likewise, the court-house, erected just after the war, was re-
placed with a new one during 1895-6. The following com-

History of Clinch County, Georgia 91

mittee was appointed by the ordinary to superintend the erec-
tion of the new building: James R. Dickerson, Peter A.
Young, Moses Smith, W. F. Kirkland and D. C. Fender. The
contract was let to T. J. Darling, a contractor of Waycross,
Ga. The new building amply met the increased demands for
a court-house and gave general satisfaction. It is two stories
in height, with a spacious court room on second floor, besides
Grand jury room and witness room. On the ground floor
are halls running through and the following offices: Clerk
Superior Court, Ordinary, County Court Solicitor, Tax Re-
ceiver and Collector, County Commissioners, County Board
of Education and Sheriff, while upstairs is the office of County
Court. This is the present arrangement.

The building faces the east, and is 50 by 80 feet in size,
and has slate roof. The new court-house was built on the
site of the old one. The land whereon the court-house and
jail are situated, was given the county by Dr. John Homer
Mattox, the founder of Homerville, as is evidenced by a deed
dated October ist, 1884, and recorded in deed book "F," by
W. A. Ecord., Clerk.

The old court-house building was sold at auction and bid
off by a committee of Primitive Baptist people, who moved
the building to another part of town and remodeled it into
a church. The committee was composed of Messrs. James
A. O'Steen, S. L. Drawdy, George M. Dame, James R. Dick-
erson and C. H. Smith. This church existed a few years
and became so delapidated that It was finally abandoned and
torn down.

CAMP OF CONFEDERATE VETERANS.

The first, only and last camp of Confederate Veterans in
Clinch County, was organized September 4th, 1899. They
elected delegates to the State and general reunions, and had a
membership of forty-seven. The following were the officers
elected: F. M. Jackson, captain commanding; W. A. Ecord,
1st Lieut; S. W. Register, 2nd Lieut.; Moses Tomlinson,

92 History of Clinch County, Georgia

3rd Lieut.; O. P. Register, 4th Lieut.; M. S. Corbitt, adju-
tant; Isham Patterson, quartermaster; D. M. Riberon, com-
missary; W. J. Stapleton, surgeon; Charles James, assistant
surgeon: Jesse J. Grooms, chaplain; J. C. Anderson, treas-
urer; James M. Kight, sergeant.-major; J. B. Ganos, officer
of the day; C. H. Smith, colonel-sergeant; L T. McLendon,
videt; James M. Inman, ist Col. Guard; Ivy Davis, 2nd
Col. Guard.

Gradually the camp declined, and finally no meetings were
held. A lack of interest was responsible for its fall.

POPULATION.

The census of 19 10 showed that Clinch County had 8,424
persons within her borders. The area was 1,077 square
miles, being the largest county in the State. The population
decreased 308 compared with the census of 1900. The census
also showed that there were 5,046 whites in the county and
3,378 negroes. Those of the voting age numbered in 1900,
2,561 men, and in 19 10, 2,294. This included both races.

The total number of illiterates were only 454, of which
311 were negroes and 142 were native whites. 4,983 were of
native parentage. The population of the county since 1870
has been as follows: Census of 1870, 3,945; 1880, 4,138;
1890, 6,652; 1900, 8,732; 1910, 8,424.

Thus it is seen that the greatest stride in the county's popu-
lation was between 1880 and 1890, when it increased over
2,500. A; school census taken in 19 14 showed that there were
2,303 school children in the county, of which little over one-
half were whites. In 1908, there were 1,285 white children
in the county of school age.

ARGYLE.

About 1885 the town of Argyle came into existence. For
many years it was nothing more than a mere station, but
gradually it grew to be a town. This town is located in the
eastern part of the county on the A. C. L. Railroad, and is

History of Clinch County, Georgia 93

but two miles from the Ware County line. It was first named
Saussy, in honor of Clement Saussy and others who were heirs
of Gasper J. Fulton. Mr. Fulton was a resident of Savan-
nah and purchased the land whereon the town is located, in
i860 from John Smith, of Clinch County. This land was
originally granted by the State to James C. Smith in 1843,
and he in 1845 ^^Id it to Joseph Lane. In 1845 Mr. Lane
sold it to John Smith, a brother of James C. Smith, and Mr.
Smith owned it until i860, when he sold it to Mr. Fulton.

Among the early postmasters were I. H. Drawdy and C.
W. Burt, and B. A. Harper. Later Mr. S. C. Patterson was
postmaster, and following his resignation about two years
ago, Mr. W. H. James was appointed. The population of
the town, according to the census of 19 10, was 280. The
name of the town was changed to "Argyle" in 1899.

In 1 908 the Argyle people unanimously voted in favor of
creating a local school district, and since then have, by tax-
ation and other means, raised about $1,500 and built a very
nice school building on the outskirts of town, on the public
road leading into Argyle. It is a two-story frame building,
with improved desks and other improvements. It is known
as the Union High School. The land and building were
valued in 1912 at $2,500 according to the report of the
State School Commissioner. The present trustees of the
school are: W. H. Hinson, B. A. Harper, A. B. Williams,
S. C. Patterson and W. L. Hinson, wide-awake and energetic
citizens.

On August 26th, 1897, Saussy, as the town was then
known, was visited by a very disastrous fire, entailing a loss
of several thousand dollars. All of the business portion of
town was destroyed.

About 1 907, the Bank of Argyle was chartered and estab-
lished. Its first president was L. O. Benton, who organized
the Bank of Homerville. In 1909 the bank closed its dodrs

94 History of Clinch County, Georgia

and liquidated its business. The reason of its failure was
due mainly to the adjacency of the bank at Homerville.

SAW-MILL ENTERPRISES.

Among the earlier saw-mill enterprises in Clinch County,
was the one mentioned in Chapter 4, which Dr. J. H. Mattox
and Cyrus S. Graves established at Homerville. Another
early mill was that of William G. Norwood and James B.
Porter at Homerville. Frank Sloat established a large saw-
mill near Stockton about 1874, and later it became a partner-
ship under the name of Sloat, Bussell & Co. Still later a
mill was put up and operated near Stockton by Frye &
Humphreys.

One of the largest mills at the time was that operated by
R. B. Reppard. At first Harry C. Reppard was interested in
it, but he sold out his interest to R. B. Reppard. Later, Mr.
Reppard organized the Reppard Land, Lumber & Saw-Mill
Company, a corporation. They acquired land and timber in
nearly every section of the county. Their mill was located
about four miles east of Homerville on the A. C. L. Railroad,
and was operated several years. It was first organized about
1879, and was operated about five years. The Southern Pine
Company eventually acquired possession of this property.

Another big plant was that of Paxton & Mattox, a few
miles west of Homerville on the railroad. Originally it was a
partnership composed of Miles Albertson and David B. Pax-
ton, but about 1888, Mr. Albertson sold his interest to H.
P. Mattox, of Homerville, and it continued under the name
of Paxton & Mattox. The place was called Clinch Haven,
and for several years was one of the largest enterprises in the
county. The business failed about 1895, and was acquired by
Geo. F. Craig & Company, of Philadelphia.

About 1 90 1 another plant was erected at the same point
and the name of the place changed to ** Cutting." The
Southern Pine Company were the owners. In a few years the

History of Clinch County, Georgia 95

plant was dismantled, and for several years the place was
deserted.

But in 1 9 ir a company of North Georgia and Northern
capitalists acquired a lease-hold to the land where their mills
were erected, and purchased several thousand acres of tim-
ber and land from Messrs. H. J. Peagler, W. K. Pe^gler,
and H. M. Peagler. It was organized into a corporation and
named The Georgia Lumber & Turpentine Company. They
manufactured lumber and produced wood spirits of tur-
pentine.

In addition to the mills at Cutting, there are the mills at
Fargo and Council, referred to before in this book. These
are the largest plants in the county.

WAYCROSS AND WESTERN RAILROAD.

During 19 13 a movement was launched to construct a
new railroad from Waycross through the northern part of
Clinch County to Milltown in Berrien County. The princi-
pal movers were John G. and Alex. K. Sessoms, of Waycross,
and F. B. Sirmans, of this county. A charter was secured and
work begun, and the road was completed to Milltown during
1 91 5. It gave a new route for Milltown and Berrien County
produce to Savannah and other markets, besides opening up
a new territory.

The president of the new railroad, which was named the
Waycross & Western, was Alex. K. Sessoms, who was a
native of Ware County. He was a son of Alex. K. Sessoms,
Sr., who died about 1909. The elder Sessoms was very
wealthy and possessed much property not only in Clinch
County, but in Ware County and in Mexico and other places.
In 191 5 Mr. Sessoms, the president of the road, was ap-
pointed on the new Board of County Commissioners of
Clinch County, although he had been in the county but a year.

The vice-president of the road was Hon. F. B. Sirmans, a
leading citizen of Clinch and an ex-Senator from the fifth
district. Mr. Sirmans, whose home was in the Mud Creek

g6 History of Clinch County, Georgia

district, owned much property through the territory opened
up by the new road. He had a nice tract of his land at a
point on the new railroad, about a mile distant from his home,
surveyed into town lots and a boom launched for a new town
to be called Sirmans. The town lots were sold at auction
and Mr. Sirmans had one of the largest cotton ginneries in
the county established in the new town. Several stores were
soon built.

The mercantile establishments at Sirmans^ are The Hughes
Mercantile Company and James A. Mathis. There is an-
other store there but is unoccupied. Mr. Sirmans, who had
been postmaster for several years at his turpentine still, which
was connected by rural route with DuPont, resigned, and
Mr. W. W. Elliott, a former resident of Homerville, was
appointed postmaster.

At the same time, another new town came into existence
on the same railroad. It was located in the Moore's Mill
district and about a half-mile from Mr. E. C. Hodges' place.
The name given to this place at first was *'Hodges," but
when a post office was applied for the name was changed to
"Cogdell," on account of there being another post office in
the State by the same name.

Mr. Sessoms, president of the road, removed to Cogdell
and built a nice home. He fenced about one thousand acres
of wild land, which adjoined Cogdell, and soon had it
stumped and cultivated. Mr. Sessoms has put up a modern
cane mill at Cogdell, and besides, has been successful in secur-
ing from the State Agricultural department a State experi-
ment station for farm demonstration purposes at Cogdell.

There is a saw-mill and shingle-mill at Cogdell and two
stores. The postmaster is James A. Brown. Soon after the
beginning of Cogdell it was seen that a school was needed,
and wisely and time enough so, since there was not a school
in several miles. A movement in which Mr. Sessoms and
John B. Kirkland were the leaders, resulted in formation of

History of Clinch County, Georgia^ ;-^^* 97

a new local school district with Cogdell as the site of the
school. This was in 191 5. A school building was immedi-
ately built and the local school trustees being without funds at
the time, Mr. Sessoms furnished the necessary funds until a
tax levy could be made and revenue raised.

The school building which was built, was built in bungalow
style and neatly and durably constructed of good lumber.
State School Supervisor F. E. Land, in a recent visit to the
Cogdell school, pronounced the energetic work on the part
of local citizens and the school to be one of the finest demon-
strations in school work he had seen.

THE OKEFINOKEE SWAMP.

Over the eastern border line of Clinch County there ex-
tends a part of the famous Okefinokee Swamp, one of the
most extensive areas of submerged land on the North Ameri-
can continent.

When Ware County was created in 1824, it embraced the
entire swamp, barring of course a portion which extends into
Florida. It is the largest swamp on the continent with the
exception of the Dismal Swamp in' Virginia, and the Ever-
glades in Florida. Up to about twenty years ago it remained
unexplored and indeed some parts of it are yet unexplored. It
is found to be a vast marsh with occasional lakes and islands.
There is some of the best timber to be found, in the swamp.

In 1 89 1 an Act was passed by the Legislature authorizing
the Governor to deed the lands embraced in the swamp to the
Suwannee Canal Company, a corporation. The promoters
hoped to provide means to float the timber to the St. Mary's
River and also to drain the swamp by means of a large canal,
thus not only securing the timber but also reclaiming the land.
But it was not successful. Within the last few years the
Hebard Cypress Company, a corporation composed princi-
pally of Pennsylvanians, has acquired this property, and has
constructed a railroad from Waycross where the company's

98 History of Clinch County, Georgia

large mills are, to the swamp and has recently penetrated
the swamp several miles with the railroad.

In White's Historical Collections of Georgia, published in
1854, the statement is made that the name "Okefinokee" is
derived from two Indian words **ooka" and "finocau"; the
former of which means **water" and the latter "quivering."
Originally the great swamp was called *'E-cun-fi-no-cau," a
compound meaning **quivering earth." But the Creeks pre-
ferred the former expression. The author, Dr. White, says
the swamp is thirty miles long and seventeen broad, and in
it are several islands, one of which the Creeks represented
to be among the most blissful spots in the world.

The swamp lies partly in Clinch, while most of it is in
Ware and Charlton counties. Billy's Island and Floyd's
Island are large islands of this swamp, containing some fertile
land. The Suwannee River originates in this swamp and
flows southward through Clinch County into Florida. The
town of Fargo is situated on the river.

The following is taken from a description given by one
well acquainted with the swamp: "Billy's Island is at this
season of the year (November) a hunter's paradise. The
only direct way to reach this place from Argyle or Homer-
ville by Mixon's Ferry on the Suwannee River; thence three
miles through the swamp over the *causeway,' which was built
by the soldiers during the Indian war in order to give battle
to the great Indian chief *Billy Bowlegs,' from whence the
island took its name. Thence through the *cow-house' and
down the Suwannee River, which has its origin here. The
water is black. The lake is on the west side of the island,
and is not more than half a mile wide at any point. As to
it being good hunting and fishing grounds there are no better
to be found."

Trout, perch, bream, jacks and cat-fish abound with an
abundance of fine turtle. Bear, duck, deer, wild turkeys,
panthers, and other wild game are also found. The swamp
served as a great rendezvous for deserters during the Civil
Wan

' ' CHAPTER VIIL

Educational.

PRIOR to 1868 the control of school affairs was vested
in the justices of the Inferior Court, five in number, to-
gether with the ordinary and one citizen of the county
appointed by the judge of the Superior Court for four years.
The clerk of the Inferior Court was secretary of the Board
of Education, while the ordinary was ex-officio treasurer of
the school funds.

In 1870 this system was entirely changed and educational
matters were vested in a Board of Education for each county
to consist of one member from each militia district in the
county, to be elected by popular vote. The Board was to
select a secretary who was to be by virtue of his appointment
county school commissioner.

In 1872 this law was considerably modified and made bet-
ter. Under the latter Act the control of education was placed
in the hands of the board of five members to be elected by the
grand jury. This board was to elect a secretary who was to
be ex-officio county school commissioner.
] Later, in recent years, the election of the county school
commissioner was placed in the hands of the qualified voters
pf the county instead of by the board. Under this law, Flem
C, Dame was the first commissioner to be elected.

Under the Act of 1870, above referred to, the following
members of the Board of Education were elected, on the
first Saturday in January, 1871, the date of the qualification
of each one following their names :

586th District. Josiah Sirmans, Sr April i, 1871

970th District. H. D. O'Quin March 2, 1871

1 65.2d District. Moses Tomlinson -June 3,1871

io6ist District. Duncan Giddens March 4, 1871

loo History of Clinch County, Georgia

1141st District. W. J. Strickland January 8, 1871

1224th District. Elias L. Moore January 8, 1871

Under the Act of 1872, referred to above the grand jury
sitting at the April term, 1872, of Clinch Superior Court,
appointed the following citizens of the county to serve on
the Board of Education :

D. H. Johnson, for 4 years, Qualified August 17, 1872

H. A. Mattox, for 4 years. Qualified 1872

W. J. Rives, for 2 years, Qualified 1872

S. W. Register, for 2 years, Qualified July 6, 1872

Chas. A. Griffis, for 2 years, Qualified July 7, 1872

Under the law of 1870, the Board of Education, which
was elected met and elected H. D. O'Quin as the first county
school commisisoner and ex-officio secretary of the board.
Mr. O'Quin qualified June 3d, 1871. He continued under
the reorganized Board of Education, and was re-elected in
1876, qualifying December nth, 1876, and served until
1882, when he was succeeded by George W. Newbern.

In his report to the grand jury, at the April term, 1873,
Commissioner O'Quin stated that about $390 had been re-
ceived by the county treasurer for educational purposes and
paid, out according to instructions; that about $800 would
be received for this county for carrying on the schools for
the fiscal year. He also stated that under the special school
law it was the duty of the school board to organize public
schools for three months in all parts of the county where
practicable, and that the Board of Education desired and
earnestly solicited the grand jury's co-operation in organiz-
ing one or more schools in each militia district during the
year.

In reference to local taxation, the commissioner stated in
his report : "The power of local taxation is lodged with your
body this year on recommendation of the School Board. The
Board in session to-day decided to recommend that as your

History of Clinch County, Georgia loi

body has the power, that you exercise your discretion in the
matter, it being the opinion, however, of the Board that tax-
ation for educational purposes would ultimately be more
beneficial than for any other purposes if properly applied, as
our children would thereby be benefited longer after we have
passed from the stage of action."

The grand jury at the spring term, 1872, which elected
the first board of education under the new school law, had
this comment to make on the new school system: "We look
with favor on the public school law and desire to see the
new system fully tested and believe that with good manage-
ment on the part of those clothed with the power of its ex-
ecution it will redound in great and lasting benefit to the
young and rising generation."

In his report to the grand jury at the fall term, 1877,
Commissioner O'Quin stated that under the new law passed
in 1876, making it the commissioner's duty to appoint school
trustees for the different districts of the county, he appointed
the following trustees : Sherod Tomlinson, J. B. Pafford and
Martin S. Corbitt for Mud Creek ; J. R. G. Hamilton, Louis
Strickland and David O'Quin for Lawton ; George W. New-
bern, William H. Ramsey and Wm. Grifiis, for Homerville;
and Isham Patterson, Jonathan L. Morgan and Solomon
Mobley, for Morgan's district. He stated that he had
licensed twenty teachers and contracted with sixteen to teach
schools up to that time during 1877.

A few figures on the school work 'and attendance in the
county for the last few years are herewith given; in white
schools :

Average No. of

Year Attendance Attendance Teachers

I9I0

1,230

951

I9II

1,400

1,000

I9I2

1,296

866

I9I3

1,170

820

I9I4

1.323

1,022

I02

History of Clinch County, Georgia

The colored attendance for 19 14 was 637, with an average
attendance of 383. There were 15 teachers employed.

Amounts

Year

Received

1910

$6,633.24

1911

6,864.78

1912

6,966.33

1913

7,181.24

1914

7»947'84

Value of School
Houses & Equipment
$18,000
19,700
20,000
25,600
28,500

Paid to
Teachers
$6,218.44

5,767.62

5.578-03
5,711.90

6,136.72

From the minutes of the school board it is seen that the
total value of school property in Clinch County in 1895, was
$6,450.50. Only two schools, viz. : Homerville and DuPont,
had patent desks. The value of the DuPont Academy was
placed at $400 for the building and $369 for the fixtures,
and the DuBignon Institute at Homerville was valued at
$2,605 for the building and $578 for the fixtures.

The following have served on the Board of Education
since 1872:

Anderson, F. M.
Booth, Jesse R. 1894-
Caswell, A. J. 1875-
Caswell, A. J. 1879-
Corbitt, Irwin 1905-
Cornelius, George
Dickerson, R. G.
Dickerson, Daniel ♦
Dickerson, J. R. 1885-
Dickerson, J. R.
Drawdy, J. J. 1876-
Drawdy, J. J. 1887-
Daugharty, G. W. 1 904-
Eason, James T.
Fender, D. C. 1894-
Griffis, William
Griffis, Charles A. 1872-

892 Knight, N. S.
903 Kight, James M.

876 Lockliear, L. H.
888 Langdale, J. J.
910 Moor^, John
881 Mattox, H. A.
875 Mattox, H. A.

893 Mattox, B. E.
886 North, Wiliam B.

891 O'Quin, H. D.

877 O'Quin, E. W.

892 O'Quin, E. W.
909 O'Quin, H. A.
892 Pa fiord, J. Levin
897 Paflord, Wm. M.
877 Paflord, M. B.
880 Register, S. W.

i88i-

1892

1881

1911-

1916

1913-

1916

1882-

1886

1872-

1876

1893

1889-

1892

1893-

1904

1879-

1884

1878-

1880

1882-

1886

1 891

1910-

1916

1903-

1905

1906-

1910

1872-

1876

History of Clinch County, Georgia 103

Griffis, John G. 1904-1914 Register, B. S. 1913-1914

Griffis, W. J. 1902-1903 Roberts, Tharp 1915-1916

Gary, W. H. 1893 Rives, W. J. 1 872-1 875

Hughes, F. M. 1898-1913 Smith, Moses 1900-1902

HiUiard, M. H. 1910-1912 Smith, Benjamin 1894-1897

Howell, W. T. 1 898-1 899 Smith, C. H. 1892

Johnson, D. H. 1 872-1 874 Strickland, W. J. 1 877-1 878

Johnson, D.H. 1887-1890 Sirmans, F. B. 1887-1890

Johnson, D. O. 1914-1916 Tomlinson,Sherod 1877-1886

The following is a list of the trustees of the different
schools of the county at present :

Reedy Creek — ^J. C. Touchston, E. J. Futch, C. L. Stanley,

Live Oak — H. W. Corbitt, J. H. Haskins, S. Deen.

Council — S. W. Evans, J. D. Langdale, J. F. Patterson.

Consolidated — F. W. Burkhalter, P. A. Courson, James
Z. Curry.

Camp Creek — H. H. Guest, T. C. Conine, D. V. Tom-
linson.

Sirmans— M. B. Pafford, W. W. Elliott, Isaac Powell.

Cogdell— J. B. Kirkland, R. A. Pafford, C. A. Hodges.

Thigpen — C. S. Vining, J. J. Brack, Benj. Cox.

Touchstone — I. D. Dickerson, J. T. Hughes, A. J. Joyce-
Waldo — M. T. Burkhalter, B. F. Dickerson, Joshua Lee.

DuPont— C. M. McLamb, L. C. Cox, C. H. North, C. C.
Lee, J. T. Bramlett.

Midway — ^A. B. Smith, H. C. Bennett, L. C. Strickland,
W. V. Musgrove, James Smith.

Red Bluff — ^W. O. James, A. J. Lockliear, Irwin Williams:

Stockton — ^J. A. Mathis, J. A. Holtzendorf, J. F. Fen-
der, Sr.

Bird Pond — ^Tharp Delk, Irwin Corbitt, M. J. Guest.

Anthon— H. W. Jordan, W. W. Willoughby, W. A.
Taylor.

Crisp— S. T. Howell, O. K. Courson, Velpo TomUnson.

I04 History of Clinch County, Georgia

Bradwell— W. M. Wilson, William Corbitt, J. H. Ham-
ilton.

Fargo— B. B. Brown, F. F. Cornelius, J. F. Newman.

Abbeville— W. M. Hughes, J. A. Mobley, M. K. Kirk-
land.

Ty Ty — M. T. Herren, L. V. Herren

Thelma— M. H. HiUiard.

Homerville — R. G. Dickerson, C. M. Kimrey, J. T. Dame,
J. L. Hunter, C. H. Dickerson.

Argyle — ^W. H. Hinson, W. L. Hinson, A. B. Williams,
S. C. Patterson, B. A. Harper.

Among the schools in Clinch County, DuBignon Institute,
located at Homerville, might be said to be the best in its
courses of study, faculty and equipment. The magnificent
brick building, located in the western part of the town, with
a campus of about six acres, is ample to accommodate a
town several times larger than Homerville. It was built in
1909-10 by the town; and in order to secure funds, with
which to built the school, the citizens of the town unanimously
voted for a bond issue of $8,000.

The original building was a two-story frame building,
located in the northeastern part of town, and built about
1894-5. It was built mainly by subscription. This building
was used until the fall of 1909, when it was destroyed. The
origin of the fire has never been ascertained; it caught in
the third story which was a "half-story" used by the secret
orders. After the loss of the old building, preparations were
immediately made for another one. The bond issue was
made and Mr. H. J. Peagler was selected by the town council
to look after the building of same arid as treasurer.

The present school building has a touch of the old Spanish
architecture in its appearance, and is two stories high. The
first floor contains two large class rooms and two smaller
ones. The second floor contains two small class rooms and a
large auditorium with a seating capacity of about five hun-

History of Clinch County, Georgia

105

dred. The building is equipped throughout with the latest
desks and seats and has electric lights and water connections.

The first school taught in the old DuBignon Institute was
opened on the 7th of January 1895, under Professors W.
E. GuUette and J. F. Eggleston. The school received its
name in honor of Hon. F. G. DuBignon, one of the State's
foremost men. In the commencement exercises of May 23-4,
1895, Colonel DuBignon offered a gold medal for the best
oratory. This was the occasion of much effort on the part
of the young men of the school. The judges were Rev. W. J.
Stallings, R. L. Clark and Hon. R. G. Dickerson. The
medal was awarded to H. H. Baxley, a young visitor-student.
His subject was **Principle."

The following is a list of the principals of the school :

W. E. GuUette
J. F. Eggleston
S. Preston Settle
G. C. Ingram
W. D. Stevenson
H. C. Cain
H. G. Fulton
H. C. Cain
S. Preston Settle
W. B. Smith
H. A. Kiker

1895-1896
1895^1896

1896
1896-1897
1897-1898

1898
1898-1899
1899-1902
1 902- 1 903

1 903.1 904

1 904. 1 905

W. L. DuVall
W. M. A vera
C. C. Palmer
H. Q. Avera
W. M. Benge
R. L. Lovell
H. Q. Avera
William Koehler
A. A. O'Kelly
Paul Moss

1905.
1907.

1909.
1910-
1911-
1912-

1913-
1914.

1907
1909
1909
1910
1911
1912

1913

1913
1914

1917

CHAPTER IX.

History of Churches of Clinch County.

METHODIST CHURCH, HOMERVILLE.

THIS church is about the oldest existing Methodist
Church in the county, having been established here in
1875. There had been no edifice here previous to that
time to worship in, and the few Methodists met occasionally
at the court-house and worshipped. Also previous to this
time, Robert B. Crum and his wife, of near Homerville,
were in charge of a Sunday School here, although un-denomi-
national it was nominally a Methodist school.

The first church building was located on a small piece of
land granted the church by the railroad company to be used
by them so long as a church was situated thereon. The land
was a part of the railroad square in town. The credit for the
securing of this parcel of land for the church is due mainly
to the efforts of Col. J. L. Sweat, of Homerville. Among
the prominent members of the church during its infancy at
Homerville, were H. A. Mattox and family, Robert B.
Crum and family. Col. J. L. Sweat and wife and E. J. Ben-
ton. Rev. William .W. Griffin lived here for several years
following the war, and preached for the Methodists occa-
sionally. He was Ordinary of the county three years.

The town lot whereon the parsonage was located, was
bought of A. S. McLendon in 1883, the price being $250.
It had a good dwelling on it and was used as a parsonage
until 1 9 14, when the present parsonage was completed and
occupied. The old parsonage and land was sold to Mrs.
W. K. Peagler and the proceeds applied to the building of
the new one, which is a neat and comfortable dwelling. The
land for the new church and parsonage was given by that
generous benefactor and member of the church, H. J. Peag-

History of Clinch County, Georgia 107

ler, who died in the midst of his endeavors to build a new
home for the Methodists.

The present church building Was built during 19 13-14, at
an approximate cost of $6,500; It was during the pastorate
of Rev. George H. Walker, a most progressive and wide-
awake pastor, that the church was contemplated, begun and
completed. This was his ambitioii from the time he took
charge of his station in December, 191 1, when he at once
saw the need of a larger and better building.

Probably one of the most interested members and generous
donators in building the new church was Henry J. Peagler,
one of the town's wealthiest citizens. He not only bought
and gave the land to the church for its new home and par-
sonage, at a cost of $900, but contributed still larger sums
of money towards its erection, as well as much of his time
and attention. In the midst of the building of the new edifice,
which he was looking after on the part of the church, Mr.
Peagler was stricken on October 31st, 19 13, with a serious
attack of acute indigestion and died within an hour's time.
Thus the church was deprived of one oi its most active and
influential members. A beautiful memorial window now
adorns the church in Mr. Peagler's memory. After his death,
Mr. W. V. Musgrove, a prominent business man of the
town, took the matter in hand and due, chiefiy to his efforts,
the church was soon completed.

The new church is located on the south side of the A. C. L.
Railroad in the heart of town, and faces the right-of-way.
It is situated on the lot formerly known as the Lyman A.
Sirmans lot. Large oaks adorn the lot which made it such
a desirable location for a new church, some of the oaks now
standing were set out by Colonel Sirmans right after the war,
when he owned the lot. The parsonage is located to the rear
of the church and faces the Railroad Square from the west.

The following is a list of the pastors of the church since
1875, as shown by the church records:

io8

History of Clinch County, Georgia

B. S. Key

1875 I- F- Carey

1894

F. C. Bickley

1876-1878 W. J. Stallings

1895-1898

Edward J. Benton

1879 J- R- Jordan

1899

Lyman H. Green

1880 C. E. Boland

1900

John W. Watts

1 88 1 J. P. Bazemore

1901

Edward J. Benton

1882 J. M. Boland

1902

S. G. Childs

1883 L. B. McMichael

1903

W. M. C. Cohley

1884 O.S.Smith

1904

C. Davis

1885 A. B. Wall

1905-1908

W. J. Stalllngs

1886 Aaron Kelly

1909-1910

S. R. Weaver

1887 L E. McKellar

1911

E. L. Padrick

1888 George H.Walker

1912-1914

W. T. McMichael

1 888-1 890 M. M. Leggett

1915

Av H. Bazemore

1 891-1893 M. M. Marshall

1916

.The following is a list of the presiding elders of the dis-

tricts in which the Homerville Church has been included

since 1880:

J/M. Marshall

1.880-1882 E. M. Whiting

1898-1900

J. D. Anthony

1 883-1 884 J. W. Weston

1901-1904

P. S. Twitty

1885 K. Read

1905-1906

W. F. Lloyd

1 886-1 887 H. M. Morrison

1907

J. 0. A. Cook

1 888-1 890 J. A. Harmon

1908-1909

G. G. N. McDaniel i89i-'92 Whitley Langston

1910-1912

K. Read

1 893-1 894 P.W.Ellis

1913

C. E. Dowman

1895 Isaac P. Tyson

1914-1916

P. S. Twitty

1896-1897

(

The following is a list of the recording stewards of the

Homerville district

t since 1880:

J. L. Sweat

1580-1887 W. A. Ecord

1 903- 1 906

H. A. Mattox

1 888-1 896 B. A. Harper

1907-1908

D. 0. Ratliff

1 897-1 900 J. L. Waldrup

1909-1913

T. F. M. Sweat

1 90 1 A. J. Gibbs

1914-1916

J. L. Waldrup

1902

History of Clinch County ,, Georgia 109

The present stewards of the Homerville Church are: A. J.
Gibbs, T. F. M. Sweat, J. L. Hunter, G. A. GIbbs, and
C. M. Kimrey.

The Sunday School of the Methodist Church at Homer-
ville is probably the oldest existing school of its kind in the
county. This. school hats been in active condition since 1876.
Prior to this time there had been an undenominational school
here led by Mr. and Mrs. Robert B. Crum, who were Metho-
dist members. This was before the Methodist Church was
built. Following the organization of the Methodist Church
at Homerville, came the reorganization of the Sunday School
and the consequent turning over of the former undenomina-
tional school led by Mr. and Mrs. Crum to the church. The
Sunday School was reorganized May 7th, 1876, and named
the Wesley Sunday School. At this time the following of-
ficers were elected: C. Hussey, superintendent; N. W.
Graddy, assistant superintendent ; J. L. Sweat, secretary, and
W. A. Ecord, treasurer. Fifty members were enrolled. After
this, Mr. Hussey, who was a school teacher, left and Colonel
Sweat was elected superintendent. But the present Sunday
School nominally dates from 1863, as it was organized as
above stated by Mr. Crum and his wife, although its actual
church affiliations date only from 1876. The following is a
list of its superintendents to date :

Robert B. Crum 1 863-1 876 Ezra McClaflin 1 897-1 899
C. Hussey 1876 J. W. Brown (died) 1900

J. L. Sweat 1876-1883 R. W. Sweat ' 1901

W. A. Ecord 1 884-1 885 W. A. Ecord 1902- 1907

J. L. Sweat 1 886-1 887 T. F. M. Sweat 1908

B. A. Whittington 1888 A. J, Gibbs 1909-1913

H. A. Mattox 1889-1895 T. F. M. Sweat 1914

N. S. Knight 1895 A. J. Gibbs 1915-1916

J. F. Eggleston 1 895-1 896

From an old Sunday School retord book for the year 1879
it is found that the following were teachers and scholars.

no History of Clinch County, Georgia

which are herewith given as it is believed they will prove
interesting.

Bible Class — ^J. L. Sweat, teacher; Miss Mary Temples,
Miss Nannie Hitch, S. M. Chapman, C. F. Hitch, W. J.
Smith, Riley Smith, F. D. Kirkland, Seward Smith; Perry
Moore, Miss Addie Crum, Mrs. H. P. Matt ox, W. F. Dick-
son, W. T. Smith, C. J. Shaw, Miss Mattie Gary, S. W. Hen-
derson, W. A. Ecord, A. Morgan, Miss Lillie Crum, Mrs.
D. W. Frobel, James P. Mattox, J. D. Mattox, Bryant
Smith, A. B. Findley, H. P. Mattox, Miss Belle Mattox, Mr.
and Mrs. J. G. Tomlinson.

Class, No. I. — Miss Addie Crum, teacher; Clara Narger,
Lola Tomlinson, Minnie Crum, Minerva Smith, Alice Mat-
tox, Lizzie Smith, Nannie Smith, Minnie Townsend.

Class No. 2 — Miss Mary Temples, teacher; Imogene
Mattox, Bettie Smith, Lizzie Ecord, Floy Caswell.

Class No. 3. — Mrs. J. L. Sweat, teacher; Cora Sirmans,
lola Roberson, Bitha Smith, Annie Watts, Lumpkin Smith,
Rosa Smith, Mary Smith, Caroline Harnage, Lula Sweat,
Pauline Smith, Jennie Smith, Maude Smith.

Class No. 4. — S. M. Chapman, teacher; Remer Crum,
Jimmie Caswell, Hamp Mattox, Jack Newbern, Willie
Smith, Basil Mattox, Willie Norwood, Willie Mattox, John-
nie Green, John H. Mattox, Jr., Jimmie Smith.

Class No. 5. — James P. Mattox, teacher; Tommie Smith,
Scott Dukes, Eddie Hinson, Isiah Fryer, John Smith, Ches-
ter Harnage, Johnny Jones, David Smith, Reubin Stanford.

Class No. 6. — Mrs. H. P. Mattox, teacher; Eddie Smith,
Lee Sweat, Allen Caswell, Bennie Findley, Jim Ecord, Frank
Caswell, Walter Mattox, Andy Caswell, Loddie Caswell.

During the fall of 1878 the Methodists built a large taber-
nacle on the Railroad Square in town, for holding revival
and yearly camp-meetings in. It was a large open-air build-
ing, circular shape, with a seating capacity of about two thou-
sand people. Annually for many years some kind of a big

"^ ;

History of Clinch County, Georgia 1 1 1

meeting was held in it. The yearly meeting was an event of
much importance ;- all the people for miles around attending
and the meetings lasting for several days at a time. Among
the leaders and tho^e who donated much towards the building
of the tabernade were H. A. Mattox and R. B. Reppard.

Gradually this beautiful custom dropped out of usage and
at last there Were no meetings held. The building began- to
decay from lack of repairs ; so the church people finally sold
it to H. J. P^agier in 1907, who tore it down and removed it.

Another beautiful custom, followed for many year's, was
that of holdirig'an annual Sunday School picnic at some pleas-
ant pcfint near Homervillc. It was never held in town nor did
the picnickers have to use the train to attend. Principal
^mbng the places where it was held were the Lewis Smith
place, one mile from town ; the ford of Cane Creek, and the
Stewart place,' about two miles from town. On account of
the hospitafity of Captain W. H. Gary, it was sometimes
held in his grove at his home on the edge of town.

As has been above stated, Robert B. Crum and his wife
were prominent merribers of the Methodist Church at
Homerville for thirty or forty years. While Mri Crum never
held any political office, yet he was in other ways one of the
town's most prominent' citFzens and the church's most zeal-
ous workers, and not only him but his wife as well. A hand-
some memorial window now adorns the new Methodist
Church in Homerville in their memory. Therefore, a short
sketch of this family will be appropriate :

To Mr. and Mrs. Crum belongs the honor of establishing
the present Methodist Sunday School in Homerville. This
was in 1863, when the town was very small and county thinly
populated. At first the school which they organized was un-
denominational biit with the formation of the Methodist
Church at Homerville it became a part of that church. '

Robert Brazelle Crum w^s born in Camden County, June
19th, 1818, a member of an old family of that county. His

112 History of Clinch County, Georgia

father was David Crum, who was a native of North Caro-
lina and who located in Camden County in 1807. R. B. Crum
married Miss Mary Ann Hutto, November 24th, 1842, by
whom he had three children. Mrs, Crum's father was itiner-
ant of the old Georgia Conference. She died in 1849. Four
years later at an old preaching place called Mulberry Grove,
Mr. Crum was married to Miss Margaret Malette, a mem-
ber of an old Camden County family. This was on June 5th,
1853. By his second wife, Mr. Crum had nine children,
viz.: Robert Mallette Crum (died 1909) ; Vidella, who mar-
ried D. W. Frobel, later Charles Gillican; Alice B. Crum,
who married F. A. Exley; Margaret Eva Crum, who mar-
ried H. J. Peagler (died 1902) ; Addie, who married Benj.
Sirmans (died about 1892) ; Lillie L. Crum, who married
Seward Smith; Rosa Minerva or Minnie Crum, who mar-
lied James P. Mattox (died 1897) ; and D. A. R. Crum, a
prominent lawyer of Cordele, Ga. The- latter is a former
State senator and was prominently mentioned as a suitable
person to be appointed judge of the newly created United
States District Court for Georgia, in 19 13-14.

In early life, Robert B. Crum joined the Methodist
Church and was a steward of the Homerville Church for
about twenty years previous to his death. As a steward he
was always on hand with his assessments and for his services
was given a life membership in the American Bible Society.

In the fall of 1862, Mr. Crum, with his family, removed
to Clinch County and settled on the Hiram Kite place, about
two miles from Homerville, having previously visited this
locality and bought the place. They lived there several years,
later acquiring the hotel property formerly owned by Joel
Strickland, in Homerville. They then moved into town and
ran the hotel continuously as "The Crum House" up to the
death of Mrs. Crum in 1902; and after her death by her
daughter, Mrs. Gillican, until 19 10.

Mr. Crum's Civil War record began in 1861, when he

History of Clinch County, Georgia 113

joined the 4th Ga. Cavalry under Colonel Clinch, of Camden
County. The next year, on account of his age, and in order
to make safe his family and property then exposed to the
enemy, he was relieved of his military obligations and re-
moved to Clinch County. Later he joined the State militia
and saw some service around Atlanta. Mr. Crum owned and
controlled some eighty-odd slaves previous to the emancipa-
tion of the slaves.

Mr. Crum died very suddenly on the 1 2th day of Novem-
ber, 1893, at the dinner table. He had been previously com-
plaining of pains in the breast and spells of weakness, but his
death was not so suddenly expected. Mrs. Crum survived her
husband and continued to run the hotel until her death in
1 90 1. She taught a class in the Sunday School for many
years. Mr. and Mrs. Crum are buried in the Homerville
cemetery.

Another one of the most prominent members of the Homer-
ville Church was Mr. Henry J. Peagler, of whom reference
has been made to before in this chapter. He was born in
Berkeley County, S. C, March 15th, 1852. When a young
man he came to Georgia and became a turpentine employee.
At first he was employed as a woods rider in Wayne County,
later coming to Clinch County, where he was employed by
H. & H. Mattox. Soon after coming to Clinch County he
met and married Miss Margaret Eva Crum. They were
married March 17th, 1881, by the Rev. John W. Watts,
pastor of the Methodist Church. To them were bom five
children : Wellie K., Harry M., Lee, Lottie and Robert Peag-
ler. Two of the children are dead.

About 1887 Mr. Peagler, together with his friend, Calvitt
Huxford, who came from the same county as Mr. Peagler,
established a turpentine business in the northern part of the
county at "Sandy Bottom." Later they opened up two other
places. They continued in partnership until 1896, when it was
mutually dissolved. About this time Mr. Peagler acquired the

114 History of Clinch County, Georgia

old home property of the Crums, located near HomerviUe,
where he built a beautiful residence in the place of the old
one and removed there. He lived there until about 19 lo,
when he moved into town.

During all this time, Mr. Peagler continued to prosper,
and soon became one of the wealthiest men in the county.
When the Bank of HomerviUe was organized in 1903, Mr.
Peagler became a large stockholder and was elected its first
vice-president. Later he was elected its president and served
in this capacity until his death in 19 13.

Mr. Peagler was an active member of the Methodist
Church for about fifteen years previous to his death. He was
a steward and trustee of the church for several years. He
gave liberally of his means to the church and was always
found in his seat at church.

His first wife died in 1902, and after her death he mar-
ried Miss Annie Belle Lanier, the beautiful young daughter
of Mr. R. M. Lanier and a grand-daughter of Rev. Robert
F. Lanier, a pioneer Methodist of Clinch County. Four chil-
dren were bom to this union, viz. : AUie, Fannie, James Mil-
ton and Henri M. Peagler.

Mr. Peagler's death occurred very suddenly October 31st,
19 13, of acute indigestion. He was taken sick at the dinner
table and died within a hour's time. His death was the occa-
sion of much sorrow the town and county over. His demise
was regretted by white and colored alike. His remains were
buried in the HomerviUe cemetery, his pastor. Rev. Geo. H.
Walker, conducting the funeral exercises.

METHODIST CHURCH, DUPONT.

This church was established about 1880. The present
church building was dedicated October 29th, 1899, by Rev.
M. C. Austin, of Brunswick. A handsome memorial window
adorns the church in honor of Walter T. Lott, a generous
benefactor of the church. .

History of Clinch County, Georgia 115

Among the earlier Methodists at DuPont, were Mrs. Eliza
G. Herviant, Col. L. A. Sirmans and family, E. J. Benton and
James T. Eason and family. At present there are very few
Methodists in DuPont. Services are held once a month. The
pastor of the Hpmerville Church is also pastor there.

The folowing is a list of the pastors since 1 890 :

W.T. McMichael 1889-1890 B. C. Prickett 1905

A. H. Bazemore 1891-1893 A. B. Wall 1906-1907
I. F. Carey 1894 J. S. Lewis 1908

W. J. Stallings 1895-1898 Aaron Kelly 1909-1910
James R. Jordan 1899 I. E. McKellar 191 1

C. E. Boland 1900 GeorgeH.WIaker 1912-1913

J. P. Bazemore 1901 F. L. Coleman 19 14

J. M. Boland 1902 M. M. Leggett 191 5

L. B. McMichael 1 903-1 904 M. M. Marshall 191 6

The Methodist Sunday School at DuPont has at times been
temporarily suspended. Due to the tireless efforts of a few
it has been re-organized time and again. The following is a
partial list of its superintendents since 1880:

Edward J. Benton 1880-1881 W. S. Glenn 1901-1902

James T. Eason 1887 A. J. Gibbs 1904- 1905

James T. Eason 1891 M. S. Eason 1908

L. A. Sirmans 1895 J. T. Bramlett 19 14

Joseph Johnson 1900 J. D. Lyie 19 15

For many years previous to his death, James T. Eason was
one of the leading members of the Methodist Church at
DuPont. He was born in Appling County, October 26th,
.1832, and was married December 28th, 1856, to Miss
Louisa Victoria Mattox, daughter of Michael Mattox, of
Tattnall County. By her he had ten children, viz. : Mary,
who married W. W. Sever; Sarah, who married John Camp-
bell; Julia R., who married H. W. Sever; Moses S. Eason;
Victoria (died in infancy) ; James M. (died in infancy) ;
Florida, who married A. S. McLendon; Nannie, who mar-

1 1 6 History of Clinch County, Georgia

rled C. M. Kimrey; Bessie, who married R. B. Hardy; Mc-
Kenzie and George H. (died in infancy). Mr. Eason joined
the Confederate army in May, 1862, and served in Co. "B"
54th Georgia Regiment.

Mr. Eason joined the M. E. Church in 1858 in Charlton
County, while his wife joined in 1857. They lived in Charl-
ton County until 1861, when they removed back to Appling
County. In 1882 he removed to Clinch County, and settled
about one mile from Magnolia. He lived here until a few
years prior to his death, when he removed to DuPont, where
he died.

Mr. Eason was one of the prime leaders in building the
Lott Memorial Methodist Church at DuPont. While liv-
ing near Magnolia, he attended a Baptist Church nearby and
although he was a Methodist, he was elected superintendent
of its Sunday School, and soon had as good a school as could
be found in the county. He worked hand in hand with Rev.
George W. Newbern in the promotion of the cause. Rev.
Newbern being the pastor of the little church nearby. All
the while, Mr. EaSon's membership was at Homerville, but
later he moved it to DuPont. He was superintendent of the
DuPont Sunday School a few years, and was elected a steward
in 1883. His death occurred at his home in DuPont, Feb-
ruary 26th, 1905, and he was buried in the North cemetery.

BAPTIST CHURCH AT HOMERVILLE.

This church was organized about 1880, the principal mem-
bers being W. H. Gary and wife, A. J. Caswell and wife,
George W. Newbern and C. A. Smith. The land for the
purpose was deeded the church by Col. Simon W. Hitch in
1882 to be used for church purposes so long as a church was
located thereon. The church f^ces the first street east of the
court-house, which runs north and south, and is on the west
side of the street. It is surrounded by beautiful shade oaks.

Until about 1880 the Baptists at Homerville had no edifice

History of Clinch County, Georgia 117

In which to worship, and the Methodists granted them the
use of their church across the railroad.

The first Baptist Church in the vicinity of Homerville,
and where the Homerville Baptists worshipped, was at the
ford of Cane Creek, three miles northeast of town. This old
church was established about 1852. At this time a Rev.
Ryals was pastor. Later, Rev. C. Aldridge, who lived at
Magnolia, was its pastor. One of the deacons of this church
was John W. Hodges. He was a deacon until its removal
to Homerville.

After the war, this church was abandoned, and the Bap-
tists worshipped in the court-house at Homerville, This priv-
ilege was granted by the grand jury in 1868, and it was availed
of by both denominations. In 1875 the Methodist Church
was erected and they allowed the Baptists the use of their
church until they could build one.

Among the earlier Baptists at Homerville, before their
church was built, might be mentioned Joel Strickland and his
wife, John W. Hodges and his wife, Alfred Newbern and
his wife, George W. Newbern and wife and A. B. Findley
and his wife. Also there were A. J. Caswell and his wife and
John C. Jones, who subsequently became prominent mem-
bers of this church.

The original church building was a frame building. This
building was used up to 191 2, when the present brick struc-
ture was completed. The present building is of white brick
and cost about $2,000. It was begun in 191 1. The building
committee consisted of Messrs. R. G. Dickerson, A. H. Cul-
pepper, George M. Dame, J. S. Kirkland and D. E. Kirk-
land. The contract was given to S. S. Dillon, a local con-
tractor, who also built the Methodist Church here. The
pastor of the church who began the movement to build the
new church was that able man of God, Rev. G. Tom West,
who lived at Willacoochee, Ga. Due to his untiring efforts
aad under his directions the present church was built.

1 1 8 History of Clinch County, Georgia

The present deacons of the church are Dr. A. H. Cul-
pepper, J. S. Kirkland and George M. Dame. The Sunday
School of the church was organized under the superintcnd-
ency of Capt. W. H. Gary. He was superintendent for
nearly twenty years previous to his death in 1901. Since
that time, Dr. A. H. Culpepper, J. S. Kirkland, Prof. R. L.
Lovell and George M. Dame have at different times served
as superintendents. The present clerk of the church is J. S.
Kirkland.

The following is a list of the pastors since 1895 :

C. C. Grace 1 895-1 896 G. Tom West 1905-19 11

M. P. Cain 1897 P. B. Butler 1912

W. O. Dorsey 1898 Hugh F. Oliver 19 12-19 13

John F. Smith 1899 Ernest M. Altman 1914-1915

J. C. Gillispie 1 900-1 901 Lester Lane - 19 16

John F. Smith 1 901-1904

Other pastors of this church were Revs. George W. New-
bern, J. T. Stanley, Bennett, Vining and Poston. Rev. A. B.
Findley was ordained to the ministry here in 1 867, and served
as pastor.

A leading member of the church is J. S. Kirkland, named
above. He is a son of the late J. C. Kirkland. He was born
in 1864, and married Miss Mary Touchstone, a daughter
of Mr. C. S. Touchstone, of Stockton, in 1904. He has four
children. Mr. Kirkland lives on his farm near Homerville,
and has served his church as a deacon, Sunday School superin-
tendent and secretary, and as clerk.

John C. Jones, although a cripple and could not walk, was
one of the most faithful members of the church. He was
for many years prior to his death in 1904, clerk of the
church. He also took a great Interest in the Sunday School.
He had been tax receiver of Clinch County for over twenty
years when he died.

Capt. W. H. Gary came to Homerville about 1880 and
was very instrumental in organizing the Baptist Church. He

History of Clinch County, Georgia 119

was a deacon of the church until his death in 1 90 1 , and also
Sunday School superintendent and church clerk. He was clerk
of the Homerville Baptist Association for several years, and
for five years was clerk of the Smyrna Baptist Association of
which the Homerville Association was formerly a part. To
Capt. Gary may be attributed more than any one else the
success and upbuilding of these associations. He was a county
commisisoner two years, mayor of Homerville and a member
of Board of Trustees of DuBignon Institute from its incep-
tion. His wife was the widow of John W. Hodges.

John W. Hodges was a leading Baptist at Homerville
before the Baptist Church was established, and his death
occurred before their church was built. As has been stated
above, he was a member of the old Baptist Church at Cane
Creek, and was deacon there for many years. He was born
April 30, 1822, in Liberty County, .and married Miss Eliza-
beth E. Darsey, of that county, February 12th, 1846. They
had no children. They removed to Clinch County in 1852
and lived for several years four miles east of where Homer-
ville now is. With the coming on of the war he removed
to town and joined the Confederate army. Mr. Hodges was
a brother to Archibald Hodges, at one time a justice of the
Inferior Court of Clinch County. He died in Homerville,
December 26th, 1878, and was buried in the town cemetery.

Another early Baptist at Homerville, was Alfred B. Find-
ley. He was born January 15th, 1839, ^^d served in Co. "K"
29th Georgia, during the war. He was married August
15th, 1866, to Miss Argent Newbem, daughter of Rev. G.
W. Newbem. Mr. Findley joined the Missionary Baptist
Church and was, on October 15th, 1866, ordained to the min-
istry. He served as deputy sheriff under Sheriffs Nclms,
Courson and Johnson, and as Justice of the Peace at Homer-
ville. Later, he removed to Coffee County and settled at
Douglas, where he established a Third Party newspaper,
and was appointed postmaster under Republican administra-
tion. He is now living at Douglas.

1 20 History of Clinch County, Georgia

BAPTIST CHURCH, STOCKTON.

This church was originally located at Carter's Bridge, on
the Allapaha River on the Clinch County side of the river. It
was constituted in 186 1. It was in a prosperous condition for
two or three years during the war, when it almost succumbed.
Rev. Caswell Howell was its first minister. Among its first
members were James Henry Carroll, James Touchston,
Charles Herren, John Touchston and Charles S. Touchston,
and Dr. Ulysses A. Rice. To-day Mr. C. S. Touchston is the
only living member of the original membership. Dr. Rice was
a native of North Georgia and lived down here several years.
He contributed much of labor and money towards the build-
ing of the church. When the war came on, Dr. Rice returned
to his old home, the Touchstons moved their membership
their membership to Macedonia Church in Echols County,
which was nearer them, and other members removed their
membership also. This left the church without support, and it
was discontinued for a few years. Although the church build-
ing remained, no efforts were made to revive it until 1868.

In 1868 several Baptist laymen, among whom were John

G. Norton, David Cowart, John Touchston and .

Collier, set themselves to the task and removed the church
building to Stockton. Here the old church was the scene of
many meetings for nearly fifty years. In 191 5 it was torn
down to put up a new building in its place. When it was
torn down much sound lumber was found in it which was
put into the building in 1861; this same sound lumber will
be used in the new building.

Rev. Thomas Powell was its first pastor after it was moved
to Stockton. When this faithful servant of the church, after
after laboring there a few years, turned the church over to
his successors, the church's membership had materially in-
creased and the church was on a sound footing.

The present pastor is Rev. Noah Tyler, who lives across
the Allapaha River in Lowndes County. The deacons are

History of Clinch County, Georgia 121

Messrs. R. J. Bennett and C. S. Touchston, the latter of
whom has served in this capacity for the last thirty years.
OUie Mathis is the church clerk. The church has a member-
ship of about thirty-five.

James Touchston, an early member of this church, settled
on Cow Creek in 185 1, removing from where Milltown now
is. The next year he built a grist and saw-mill on Cow Creek,
propelled by water. Mr. Touchston joined the Baptist
Church in early life, and was an active member until his
death in August, 1 865. At his death he was 7 1 years old. At
the time of his death his membership was with the Mace-
donia Church in Echols County. Mr. Touchston's wife was
Miss Rebecca Hutto, by whom he had ten children, viz.:
John, William, Nancy, Jesse, James, Henry H., Isaac, Ra-
chael, Chas. S., and Sarah Touchston. Two ot his sons, Jesse
and James Touchston, were killed in the war at Boonesboro,
Md., in 1863.

Charles S. Touchston, a son of James Touchston, Sr.,
joined the Baptist Church in i860, and in 1861 became a
member of the Carter's Bridge Church. He was born April
30th, 1845, where Milltown now is. When the Civil War
came on, Mr. Touchston joined Co. "K" 29th Georgia Regi-
ment, but was later transferred to Co. **H" 4th Georgia
Cavalry. When the war closed he returned home and mar-
ried Miss Mary E. Howell, daughter of H. H. Howell, of
Echols County, December 28th, 1865. To them were born
ten children.

John G. Norton was very instrumental in removing the
Baptist Church from Carter's Bridge to Stockton. For sev-
eral years he was clerk of the church. He was bom in South
Carolina, February 3d, 1838. He settled at Stockton just
after the war and subsequently engaged in the mercantile
business. He also ran a ginnery.

He removed to Lowndes County, below Naylor, and began
farming. His death occurred February 4th, 1906, and he

122 History of Clinch County, Georgia

was buried at the Stockton cemetery. He was twice married
and had several children.

ANTIOCH METHODIST CHURCH.

This church is situated several miles south or Argyle, and
was for many years in the Homerville circuit. This church
was established mainly through the efforts of Rev. Irwin R.
Booth, who was a local preacher many years previous to his
death in 1896. Among, the early leading members of the
church was Isham Patterson, James Harper, C. W. Inman,
Herschel Inman, Ivy Davis and W. H. Hinson.

The list of pastors have been the same as that of Homer-
ville. The following is a list of the Sunday School superin-
tendents at Antioch :

John Inman 1876 Frank R. Booth 1 894-1 895

C. W. Inman 1 880-1 881 Irwin R. Booth 1896

George H. Lee 1882-1883 J. H. Inman 1897

Ivy Davis 1 884-1 886 Russell Fulwood 1898

Isham Patterson 1887-1889 W. H. Hinson 1900-1901

Herschel Inman -1890-1892 J. W. Hinson 1908-1910

Isham Patterson 1893 L. C. Capps 19 12

As has been stated above, Rev. Irwin R. Booth was a
leading member of the Methodist Church in this section for
fifty years. He was bom in Beaufort County, S. C, June 3d,
1812, of religious parents. He joined the Methodist Church
at the early age of nine and led a consistent life until his death.
He married Miss Margaret Mixon in 1832 ; after her death,
he married Mrs. Margaret Knowles, of Ware County, Sept.
2 1st, 1868. Rev. Booth moved to Georgia about 1840 and
with the exception of a short while lived in Clinch County
until death in 1896.

At the time of his death. Rev. Booth had been preaching
nearly fifty years, and was one of the first Methodists to set-
tle in Clinch County. He was superintendent of the Antioch
Sunday School at the time of his death. The Sunday before

History of Clinch County y Georgia 123

he died he was on hand and conducted the school, although
84 years old. His death occurred January i6th, 1896, and
his remains were buried at Antioch Church. On Sunday, Au-
gust 30th, 1896, the funeral services and last tribute of re-
spect to his memory were held at Antioch. All the children,
grand-children and other relatives and friends numbering
several hundred, were present. The services were conducted
by Revs. W. J. Stallings and C. W. Inman.

Another prominent member of Antioch Church was Ivy
Davis. He was a resident of the neighborhood of the church,
and was long associated with church and Sunday School
affairs. He was not only a steward but a Sunday School super-
intendent several years, and for about five years was presi-
dent of the Clinch County Sunday School Association.

Mr. Davis was born in 1845, ^^^ was married to Miss
Miranda Smith, daughter of William E. Smith, January 21st,
1868 and had several children. He died in 19 13 at his home
in Brunswick, Ga., where he had removed several years
before.

SHILOH METHODIST CHURCH.

This church was located about four miles south of Argyle,
and near the home of Mr. W. J. Strickland. It was estab-
lished about 1875. The pastorate was supplied by the Homer-
ville Church. Among the early prominent members of the
Church were : W. J. Strickland, Peter Williams, John Florida
Smith and H. C. Smith.

The following is a partial list of its Sunday School super-
intendents :

Peter Williams 1880-1882 John E. Booth 1893-1895

W. J. Strickland 18 82-1 8 84 Jesse Booth 1896

Peter Williams 1884-1886 J. Jordan 1897

John F. Smith 1886-1889 Andrew Pittman 1898

Henry C. Smith 1 890-1 891 A. J. Kight 1905

James Fulwood 1891-1892 J. R. Jernigan 1910-1916

1 24 History of Clinch County, Georgia

METHODIST CHURCH, ARGYLE.

This church was established in 1887, at about the time
that the town of Argyle or Saussy, as it was then called,
came into existence. The land for the purpose was deeded by
Mrs. Virginia N. Fulton and Ida F. Saussy, heirs of Gasper
J. Fulton, to the trustees of the Church September 8th,
1887, to be used by the Church so long as used for church
purposes. The trustees named in the deed were : W. A. Ecord,
Peter Williams, N. S. Knight, and W. S. Fender. Those
trustees, however, did not live at Argyle. Among the earlier
Methodists at this point, were T. P. Jordan, S. R. Kirton, T.
H. Miller, B. A. Harper, and J. R. Booth.

The pastors of this church are the same as the Homerville
Church. The following is a list of the Sunday School super-
intendents since 1894:

T. P. Jordan 1894-1898 B. C. Martin 1908-1910

T. H. Miller 1 898-1 900 J. C. Saville 1911-1913

B. A. Harper 1900 R. J. Booth 1913-1914

J. R. Booth 1 90 1 Geo. W. Goodman 19 14

W. H. Hinson 1902- 1903 S. C. Patterson 1915-1916
Mrs. J. H. Inman 1 904-1 907

PROVIDENCE, OR CAMP BRANCH CHURCH.

This church is of the Primitive Baptist denomination, and
although located about a mile across the line in Ware County,
has always been closely associated with Clinch County, there-
fore the history of this church will not be amiss.

A small band of Primitive Baptists met at this point and
organized themselves into a church on the third day of Feb-
ruary, 1 844. They were constituted as a church on the first
Sunday in March (March 2d), 1844. The following is the
covenant of the original constituted members, copied from
the church minutes.

Covenant : For as much as Almighty God by His Grace
has been pleased to call us whose names underneath subscribed

History of Clinch County, Georgia 125

out of darkness into his marvelous light and all of us have
been regularly baptized upon a profession of our faith in
Christ Jesus and have given up ourselves to the Lord and
to one another in a Gospel church-way to be governed and
guided by a proper discipline agreeable to the Word of God,
we do therefore in the name of our Lord Jesus and by His
assistance, covenant and agree to keep up the discipline of the
church members in a most brotherly affection toward each
other while we endeavor to punctually observe the following
rules, viz. : in brotherly love to pray for each other, to watch
over one another and if need be in the most tender and af-
fectionate manner to reprove one another, that is if we dis-
cover anything amiss to go and tell him his faults according
to the direction given in our Lord's gospel, and not to be
whispering and back-biting. We also agree with God's as-
sistance to attend to our church meetings, observe the Lord's
day and not absent ourselves from the communion of the
Lord's Supper without lawful excuse, to be ready to communi-
cate to the defraying of the church expense.

These things we do covenant and agree to observe and
keep sacred in the name and by the assistance of the Holy

Trinity. Signed by the mutual consent of the members whose
names are underneath subscribed. March 2d, 1844.

John Minshew, Richard A. Bennett,

Rachael Minshew, Tobitha Bennett,

James J. Thomas, William S. Bennett,

Duncan Henderson, Nancy Bennett.
Belinda Henderson,

After the organization was perfected. Rev. Isham Peacock
was called as the first pastor of the church which call he ac-
cepted. Duncan Henderson was then selected as clerk, and
regular meeting days were fixed for both monthly and annual
meetings.

The following is a list of the pastors since the organiza-
tion of the church, barring two periods when the list was not
obtainable :

126 History of Clinch County, Georgia

Isham Peacock 1 844-1 845 James M. MuUis 1 871-1880
Reubin Crawford 1 846-1 848 Jas. C. Williams 1 881-1882
John Dryden 1849-1854 R.H.Bennett 1890

Reubin Crawford 1855-1860 E. W. Dilbem 1891

H. Cowart 1861 James A. O'Steen 1892

John Dryden 1862 D. B. Sheffield 1894

Reubin Crawford 1863 James A. O'Steen 1 895-1901

Daniel Palerson 1863 W. H. Tomlinson 1902- 1905

James M. MuUis 1863 H. J. J. Markey 1906-1908

Reubin Crawford 1864 J. C. Hewett 1909

Daniel Palerson 1864 Richard A. James 1915-1916

From about i9ioto 1915 the church had no regular pas-
tor, while the minutes do not disclose anything relative to
the period of 1864-1871 and 1882-1890. The following is a
list of the church clerks since 1844, with the exception of
1882-1890:

Duncan Henderson 1 844-^49 W. P. Nunez 1 873-1 880

Richard A. Bennett 1849-^59 J. H. Miller 1881

Asa Geiger 1 860-1 861 J. R. Dickerson 1890-19 15

William T. James 1861-1873 B. M. James 1915-1916

Duncan Henderson, who was the first clerk, was born
about 1800 and was a brother to John S., and Daniel Hen-
derson. He married Miss Belinda Stafford, a daughter of
Josiah Stafford. To them were born four children, viz. : An-
drew J., Jack, David and Mary Henderson. His member-
ship was with Providence Church until his death in 1863. He
was for many years a trustee for the church property.

CLINCH COUNTY SUNDAY SCHOOL ASSOCIATION.

With the organization and spread of the Sunday School in
Clinch County, came the organization of the Clinch County
Sunday School Association. This is an association that has
been very helpful and beneficial to the Sunday School cause in
Clinch County. There are no records showing when it was
organized, but we have traces of its existence as early as

History of Clinch County, Georgia 127

1883. Annual conventions have been held every year for
over twenty-five years. The following is a list of its presi-
dents and secretaries since 1896, with the years 1883 and
1893 added, — the other years are not obtainable:

Presidents — 1883, John G! Norton, Stockton; 1893, Ivy
Davis, Saussy; 1896, A. W. Bridges, Ratio; 1897, ^- ^•
Pafford, Stockton; 1898, W. D. Stevenson, DuPont; 1899,
Ivy, Davis, Argyle; 1900, Ivy Davis, Argyle; 1901, Ivy
Davis, Argyle; 1902, J. A. Kilpatrick, Argyle; 1903, H. J.
Dame, Homerville; 1904, A. J. Gibbs, DuPont; 1905, A. J.
Gibbs, DuPont; 1906, Wm. M. Pafford, Mud Creek; 1907,
Wm. M. Pafford, Mud Creek; 1908, A. J. Gibbs, DuPont;
1909, A. J. Gibbs, Homerville; 19 10, A. J. Gibbs, Homer-
ville; 191 1, R. G. Ratliff, Stockton; 19 12, R. G. Ratliff,
Stockton; 19 13, A. J. Gibbs, Homerville; 19 14, J. W. Tim-
merman, Stockton; 191 5, G. A. Gibbs, Homerville.

Secretaries — 1883, J. L. Sweat, Homerville; 1893, L. D.
Ellington, DuPont; 1896, Levi Hill, Ratio; 1897, Benj.
Smith Stockton; 1898, Benj. Smith, Stockton; 1901, W. H.
Patterson, DuPont; 1902, G. H. Cornelius, Homerville;
1903, B. O'Quin, DuPont; 1904, J. C. Smith, Mud Creek;
1908, L. H. Dame, Homerville; 1909, W. B. DuVall,
Homerville; 19 10, W. B. Gibbs, Homerville; 19 12, Folks
Huxford, Homerville; 19 13, Lizzie Day, DuPont; 19 14,
Folks Huxford, Homerville; 19 15, Folks Huxford, Homer-
ville.

The following have served as vice-presidents, a complete
list of which is not obtainable: Peter Williams, 1883 ; L. C.
Mattox, 1898; J. S. Kirkland, 1902; Benj. Smith, 1904; H.
H. Timmerman, 1909; R. G. Ratliff, 19 10; George M.
Dame, 1911-13 and 1916, and S. C. Patterson, 1915.

PROSPECT CHURCH.

This church is of the Primitive Baptist denomination, and
was constituted January 22d, 1859. The first constituted
members of the church were : Jacob Lightsey and Christina

128 History of Clinch County, Georgia

Lightsey, Edmund Mathis and Labra Mathis, William
Hughes, William Tomlinson and John Mathis, and Sarah
Hutto. Rev. Isaac D. Hutto was for many years pastor.
The present clerk of the church is James R. Morgan. This
church is situated about four miles north of DuPont. The
land for the church was deeded by Rowan B. Johnson in
1859.

WAYFARE OR COW CREEK CHURCH.

This church was situated just across the line in Echols
County, but has always been identified with the county. When
it was first organized it was in Ware County, later in Clinch,
then in Echols. It was constituted in 1847, ^^^ the first
annual meeting was had on Friday and Saturday before the
fourth Sunday in September, 1847. The first constituted
members were: John Roberts, Sr., Edmund Mathis, Unity
Mathis, Harvey Mizell and Rebecca Mizell, John T.
Roberts, John Mathis, James Johnson, Simon A, Blackman,
Azilpha Tomlinson, Harvey Matthews, Elizabeth Register,
and Rachael Howell.

FIRST SUNDAY SCHOOL.

There has always been much discussion as to who founded
the first Sunday School in Clinch County. After much re-
search and investigation, it seems that Eaton H. Howell was
the founder of the first school of this kind in the county. This
was about 1856, or 1858. It was located between Homer-
ville and Magnolia, and Mr. Howell was assisted by Geo.
W. Newbern. Mr. Howell was teaching a day school there
and was a young man about 25 years old. This school existed
a few months, when it closed with the leaving of Mr. Howell.

About the next Sunday School to be established in the
county was at Homerville in the northeast section of town.
It was established by Rev. Robert F. Lanier, Dr. L. C. Mat-
tox and H. A. Mattox, in the school house. Regular Sunday
School literature was used, and the school progressed nicely

History of Clinch County, Georgia 129

for perhaps a year or so. It was first established about 1861.
Rev. Lanier removed to Lowndes County in 1863.

Mr. and Mrs. Robert B. Crum were the organizers of
probably the next Sunday School in the county, at least in
Homerville. This was in 1863. This school was continued
until the organization of a Methodist Church at Homerville,
about 1875, when it became a Methodist school. This school
had Its trials and difficulties and several times was dosed
for short periods, but'always opened up again.

CHAPTER X.
A Distinguished Family Connection.

ONE of the most distinguished family connections in the
State of Georgia, and especially of Clinch County,
sprang through the illustrious Simon W. Nichols, one
of Clinch County's pioneer citizens. Mr. Nichols was orig-
inally a merchant of Savannah, but a few years after his
marriage he became entangled in financial difficulties there
through signing a friend bond in court, Mr. Nichols having
to finally pay it. He first removed to Jones County, and
settled at the old town of Clinton, where prosperity seems to
have been his lot; he lived here for about fifteen or twenty
years, finally coming to what is now Clinch County, where
he died.

Mr. Nichols married Miss Margaret Waver, a daugh-
ter of Jacob Waver, of Savannah, who was a German emi-
grant. The marriage took place on March 30th, 1821. By
her he had seven cihldren, three sons and four daughters,
and this coterie of children became, in after years, among
the State's most gifted sons and daughters.

William Montgomery Nichols, the oldest son, was once
State Senator from Clinch County, and was married first
to a Miss McCombs, and his second wife was Miriam, daugh-
ter of Governor Wilson Lumpkin, of Georgia, who was twice
Governor of the State and a United States Senator.

Waver Jacob Nichols was a first-honor graduate of the
Charleston, S. C, Medical College, and became one of the
county's foremost physicians.

John Calhoun Nichols, the youngest son, graduated from
Washington & Lee University and took up the practice of
law, becoming one of the State's ablest lawyers, and served
two terms in Congress.

History of Clinch County, Georgia 131

Eliza G. Nichols graduated from the LaGrahgc Female
College and married J. P. A. DuPont, who was a son of
Peter DuPont, an officer in Napoleon's army and who fought
through the Napoleonic wars with Austria and Russia.

Annie A. Nichols married Sylvanus Hitch, a native of
Massachusetts, and a large land owner. She became the
mother of Simon W. Hitch, for many years Solicitor-General
of the Brunswick judicial circuit, besides other children.

Delia H. Nichols married Green J. Foreacre, better
known as Jonas Foreacre, a citizen of DeKalb County, who
figured conspicuously in the battles around Atlanta and was
wounded at the first battle of Manassas.

Laura B. Nichols, the youngest daughter, was married
after the war to W. T. Akers, a citizen of Atlanta. To
write the history of these children and their families would
be to take in nearly every section of the State.

Simon W. Nichols lived at Clinton, in Jones County, for
several years. Later he went to Roanoke, now Eufaula,
Alabama, and lived about a year there. About this time, he,
and Hon. John Forsyth, one of the State governors and also
Secretary of State in Van Burens cabinet, began to grant
lands in South Georgia, where the lands had recently been
ceded by the Indians. Mr. Forsyth owned great areas of
land in this county and Mr. Nichols looked after them as his
agent, while Mr. Nichols himself acquired much land also.

About 1839, William Register settled at what is now the
old Register home-place, about twelve miles below where
DuPont now is. Mr. Nichols owned a good deal of land
himself down here, and also a tract in Florida. While on a
trip down there, he passed Mr. Register's place and spent a
short while with him as they were intimately acquainted with
each other. Mrs. Nichols expressed a desire to live here in
the hope that her health, which was bad at the time, would
change for the better. To this desire Mr. Nichols acquiesced
and so in this way, this noted family became residents of
what was then Ware but is now Clinch County. Mr. Nichols

132 History of Clinch County, Georgia

made his hdme on the adjoining lot of land to Mr. Register's,
and here it was that the celebrated Nichob family was reared
to manhood and womanhood*

His death occurred at the home of his daughter^ Mrs.
Eliza G. Herviant (formerly DuPont) at Suwannoochee
(now Dupont town) shortly after the war, and his remains
were buried at Prospect Church near DuPont, in the county
which he loved so well, and which he had been so instrumen-
tal in bringing into existence. He was very active in bring-
ing about the creation of Clinch County, and in the Act cre-
ating the same, he was named as one of the commissioners to
organize it. The lands upon which Magnolia was located
were given by him to the county in order that the county
site might be located there.

Mr. Nichols, at the time of his death, was the highest
Mason in the county, being a Knight Templar. He was a
man of education and refinement, and in the educating of his
children, he gave them the best schooling possible in those
days. He was indeed a great man, liked and respected by his
fellow citizens for the high degree of intelligence and citizen-
ship which characterized him.

His noble wife, who preceded him to the grave, was an-
other one of those women whose noble traits of character
and the love of home and family^ endeared her to those who
knew her. Indeed, it might be said of her : "None knew her
but to love her; none named her but to praise.*'

Peter DuPont was an officer in Napoleon's army, and dis-
tinguished himself in the wars against Austria and Italy. He
owned large estates in France, and after the war he was
compelled to flee from the country following Napoleon's
downfall, he went to Santo Domingo, where he acquired a
large coflfee plantation. He lived there a few years^ but soon
an insurrection of negroes drove not only him but his friend,
Waver, and all the other whites away. Mr. DuPont, along

History of Clinch County, Georgia 133

with Mr. Waver, settled in Savannah. They had been fast
friends for several years, both coming from France, and
finally settling in Savannah, but they knew not that in after
years their families would be connected by marriage. Mr.
Waver's grand-daughter married Mr. DuPont's son some
forty years later.

At the same time that Peter DuPont came over here, he
was accompanied by two brothers, Eugene and Paul DuPont.
Paul went North, and Eugene South, but the latter has never
been heard of since he left. Paul's descendants are today
represented in Delaware by Henry A. DuPont and others,
who own the noted DuPont powder plant.

John Peter Augustus DuPont, a son of Peter DuPont,
was born in the city of Savannah, August 31st, 18 19, and
spent his childhood days there. He was a direct lineal de-
scendant of Marshal Lefebvre, Duke of Dantzic, and of
General Count DuPont, and in his veins coursed some of
the best blood to be found. He was married about 1850 to
Miss Eliza Green Nichols, daughter of Simon W. Nichols,
and by her had three sons, viz.: J. P. A. DuPont, Jr.,
Thomas Charlton DuPont and Lee Lefebvre DuPont. The
elder DuPont engaged in the cotton business in Savannah
for a few years, exporting cotton to England and France.
His son, L. L. DuPont, now has an old cotton report or table
dated about 1 840, showing the cost of cotton to produce it,
cost to get it to England, and a table of prices for Sea Island
and upland cotton at New Orleans, Savannah and Liverpool,
and the equivalent value of cotton in English money from
eight up to sixteen cents per pound. This table was prepared
by Mr. DuPont and is in his own handwriting.

After living in Savannah for several years, he removed to
Darien, in Mcintosh County, where he engaged in the lum-
ber business. He bought and exported timber for the cele-
brated Epting firm in Germany, shipbuilders. His son, L. L.
DuPont, also now has a measuring rod with a handle to it
about a yard long, with which his father measured timber.

134 History of Clinch County, Georgia

After his marriage to Mr. Nichols' daughter, he acquired
property in Clinch County, in the vicinity of where DuPont
now is. A survey had just been made through this section
(1857) f^r ^ proposed railroad, and Mr. DuPont decided
to build his family a summer home at where DuPont now is.
The summer months at Darien were very unhealthy, and in
this way came about the building of a home for his family in
another section to be used by them during the summer
months. He had the lumber brought with oxen from Doctor-
town, on the Altamaha River, and when the lumber was laid
down at the point where a town was later built, there was
nothing but pine forests there. The railroad was not built
until two years later. This site was also very desirable to
Mr. DuPont's family, as Mr. Nichols lived just below this
point a few miles. Mr. DuPont himself never lived in
Clinch County, although generally regarded as one of the
county's citizens. The house which he built was not finished
until several years after the Civil War, owing to the out-
break and continuance of the war. The original building,
with some modifications or additions to it, is still standing in
the town of DuPont, and is now owned and occupied by
Mr. L. L. DuPont.

The war coming on, Mr. DuPont threw himself enthusi-
astically into the work of raising companies to go to the
front. He raised practically every company that was raised
in Mcintosh County during the first two years of the war.
Although he was opposed at first to the war and had always
been an opponent of slavery, he did not let this hinder him
in rendering his services to his State and to the cause. The
ladies of Mcintosh County presented him with a flag to be
used in the last company he raised there. This flag, which
had the Confederate bars on it, had in the place of the stars,
an arch with three pillars representing Wisdom, Justice and
Moderation, like that found on the Great Seal of the State.
Mr. DuPont turned this company over to the State author-
ities, but declined to part with his flag; and the flag is now in

History of Clinch County, Georgia 135

possession of Mr. L. L. Dupont, the only living son. It has
the letters "M. R." in the center of the flag denoting the
"Mcintosh Rifles," and around the arch referred to were
thirteen small stars representing the thirteen Confederate
States.

Mr. DuPont's valuable life was destined to soon be cut
short. He came to his home at Station No. 12, as it was
called, and lived only a short while, his death occurring April
1 8th, 1863. He was survived by his wife and two sons, the
third son being born a few months after his death. His re-
mains were carried to Savannah where they were buried in
the family vault.

His widow was married again just after the war was over
to Mr. Peter A. Herviant, who was the first paymaster of the
old Atlantic & Gulf Railroad, and who held that position
until after his marriage to Mrs. DuPont. Mrs. Herviant had
no children by her second marriage. Mrs. Herviant was a
graduate of the LaGrange Female College, and was one of
the most intelligent and well-versed women of her day. She
was acquainted and could talk with much intelligence on most
any subject brought before her. She was often looked to for
counsel and advice on many subjects not generally regarded
as belonging to woman's realm. In case of sickness she could
administer medicine and give prescriptions as well as the most
experienced physician. Her education was a finished one,
and in her bright intellect was combined the highest degree
of mental attainments with the lofty aspirations of the heart.
Her generosity was unbounded and her door was always
open to both the stranger and the acquaintance. Her de-
meanor was such as to make all who came in contact with her
at once to begin to like her. Mrs. Herviant was born October
1 8th, 1825 at her parental home in Clinton, Jones County,
and died at the home of her sister, Mrs. Akers, in Atlanta,
August 17th, 1885. Her remains were buried in the family
vault in Savannah. She was survived by her husband and
two sons.

136 History of Clinch County, Georgia

Her husband, Peter Alexander Herviant, was bom in
Macon, Georgia, February 7th, 1834, and died at the old
family home in DuPont, September 4th, 1909. He came to
DuPont shortly after the war and married Mrs. DuPont.
After coming to DuPont, he was appointed station agent
there, which position he held until retired by the company
on account of age, on a pension. He was possessed of an
excellent education and that good grace and appearance
which bespake of him a gentleman in every sense of the word.
After his marriage into the DuPont family, he took charge
of the rearing of the three sons besides the management of
the large areas of land which belonged to his wife. His
prudence and sagacity in business matters is well illustrated
in the way in which he took care of the three sons. He never
spent any of the funds which were dedicated to the education
and raising of the boys, either on himself or foolishly on
them. He did much for the uplift and upbuilding of the
town and was looked upon as an honorable and progressive
citizen.

These three boys, J. P. A., Charlton and Lee L. DuPont
inherited much of that wonderful brilliance of mind and
ability and power from their parents. The eldest, John Peter
Augustus DuPont, in later life known as Augustus DuPont,
was born in Savannah, September 17th, 1856, where his
mother was living at the time. He attended the State Uni-
versity, of Iowa law department, and graduated with first
honor. He was at once admitted to the bar there in 1880,
but desiring to return home he came back to DuPont, where
he settled for the practice of law. He also was a graduate
of Roanoke College, Salem, Va., where -He graduated with
first honor. Very soon he was appointed on the Governor's
staff of the State Militia, which he held seventeen years. Here
he evinced some of the military genius displayed by his grand-
father in the Napoleonic wars. At the time of his death he
was one of the three men in the State eligible to the office
of Adjutant-General. Mr. DuPont's ability as a booster

<3^'S

History of Clinch County, Georgia 137

and live worker is shown by his three appointments to the
Omaha and Paris expositions and the Nashville Centennial
Celebration. To the first he was vice-president of the Georgia
committee, and to the latter he received the following plaudit
from Tennessee's governor, which speaks for itself:

State of Tennessee — Executive Chamber.

Nashville, December 30th, 1898.

To All who shall see these presents. Greeting :

Captain Augustus DuPont represented the State of Geor-
gia at the Tennessee Centennial Exposition as Commissioner-
General, and was one of the most active and one of the
most intelligent representatives of the whole Union. His
work was of the most distinguished character. It was a labor
of love in honor of his own great State. Georgia owes him
a laurel wreath and Tennessee gives to him through me, her
governor, a tribute of praise. His presence here and work he
did will not be forgotten by our people. The memory of his
noble deeds, like the fragrance of roses, will linger with us
through the years.

I recommend him as a live, active man of the times, and
worthy of that which is above price — the good name which
he bears.

(Signed) Robert L. Taylor, Governor.
By order of the Governor:
(seal) W. S. Morgan, Secretary of State.

Mr. DuPont received the election at the hands of the Leg-
islature as a commissioner from the State of Georgia to the
Exposition Universelle at Paris in 1900, but unfortunately,
he was taken sick about this time and prevented from going.
It would have been a suitable trip for him to have visited the
country of his forefathers in the capacity as a representative
from his native State.

In 1904 Hon. R. B. Johnson, representative from Clinch
County in the Legislature, died, leaving a vacancy to which
Mr. DuPont was elected at a special election held July i6th,
1904. He was the unanimous choice of the county Demo-

138 History of Clinch County, Georgia

cratic Executive Committee, and in the election had no oppo-
sition. Mr. DuPont took his seat and served through the
session of 1904.

In the next election for representative he did not oflfer for
re-election.

After this he lived in retirement at his home in DuPont,
occupying, with his brother, the old family home. Mr.
DuPont died February 27th, 19 13, at Savannah, where he
had been taken a short while before for treatment. He was
survived by a daughter, Eliza G. DuPont, who now resides
in Charleston, S. C, since her marriage.

The second son, Thomas Charlton DuPont, was born at
Darien, November 27th, 1858. He was raised at DuPont,
then called Lawton, and attended the law school of the Uni-
versity of Georgia, from which he graduated with first honor
in 1878, carrying off the gold medal for supremacy in ora-
tory. The medal is now in the possession of Mr. L. L. Du-
Pont. The next year he was admitted to the bar and located
at Savannah for the practice of law. He practiced there two
years, making many friends while there. After this he re-
moved to Jacksonville, Florida, where he at once took a high
place among the lawyers at the bar. His brilliant powers
of oratory, together with his broad legal mind and his won-
derful personality, all combined to make him one of the most
popular and well known men in Jacksonville. He threw him-
self into politics and was very instrumental in carrying Duval
County for Governor Drew in the election. In 1884, Gov-
ernor Drew placed his young supporter into the race for
United States Senator. This young genius was making a
winning race when he was taken sick with scarlet fever. He
was brought to his mother's home at DuPont, where he
lingered on the bed of affliction several weeks. The fever
finally turned into a serious case of dropsy and death soon
intervened, taking one of the State's most promising young
men. His death occurred at DuPont, September 6th, 1884,
and his remains were buried in the family vault in Savannah.

History of Clinch County, Georgia 139

The Jacksonville Times-Union and many other newspapers
printed eulogies of praise and the local bar at Jacksonville
and Homerville adopted resolutions on his death.

The Jacksonville Times-Union said in part: "In this brief
career he has exhibited an instance of a powerful and evenly
balanced intellect, with a greatness of heart, firmness of pur-
pose, energy of action, moral loftiness, a splendid endurance
under terrible suflfering, and heroic death, as magnificent
as it is unusual. Mr. DuPont removed to Jacksonville in the
winter of 1880-81, where his talents gave him almost instant
success. At that time he was beyond doubt, the handsomest
young man in this city ; of splendid physique, with a head of
great beauty, dark eyes, of full habit, a rich, confident voice,
and a musical laugh that made him altogether an attractive
man. In his profession he was pre-eminently an advocate;
he knew by instinct the secrets of human character, the weak-
nesses and prejudices of men; his language was simplicity
itself; his manner wholly unstudied and unaffected, but his
magnetism was powerful and persuasive, and his words
flowed forth from his lips a melodious torrent, sparkling with
sunshine freighted with argument and subtlest persuasion.
He was a born orator, a master of the minds of men."

The youngest son, Lee Lefebvre DuPont, was born in
Savannah, Oct. 23d, 1863. He has lived his life from baby-
hood up in the town of DuPont. Here living in comfort-
able quietude in the paternal home which he now occupies. He
received a good education, entering in 1879 ^^^ famous Brad-
well Institute, at Hinesville, Ga., and in 1881 entering
Emory College at Oxford, Ga. He lacked five months of
graduating from college, being called home on account of
the illness and death of his brother, Thomas Charlton Du-
Pont. Mr. DuPont married about 1903, Miss Addie Reg-
ister daughter of Mr. O. P. Register, by whom he has two
sons. To-day he is the owner of the old family holdings,
consisting of several thousand acres of land and town prop-
erty. He has in his possession many old curious and valuable

140 History of Clinch County, Georgia

articles handed down in the family, some of which have been
mentioned. The only office which he ever held was that of
justice of the peace at DuPont, to which he was commissioned
December 8th, 1900, for four years. Mr. DuPont inherits
much of the family's grace and courtliness of manners as well
as courage and devotion to duty. In politics he is indepen-
dent; he stands for that which he thinks is right and is not
carried on the tide of public opinion. He looks with pride
on the distinguished services of his ancestors, both paternal
and maternal, and much of the nobility arid high degree of
grace is embodied in him, and will be exhibited in his two
promising sons in later life.

John Calhoun Nichols, a son of Hon. Simon W. Nichols,
graduated from Washington and Lee University in early life.
He was admitted to the bar and practiced law at the Homer-
ville bar for about thirty-five years. He resided in Clinch
County just prior to and during the war. When the war
came on, he, like his illustrfous brother-in-law, Capt. J. P. A.
DuPont, threw himself very enthusiastically into the cause.
Raising a company of Clinch County men. He was elected its
captain in 1862. This was Co. "I" 4th Georgia Cavalry.
He served as captain throughout the war. Captain Nichols
was one of the most beloved men in the army, and always
exercised great care and interest in his men.

Returning home from the war he practiced law at Homer-
ville a while, but in a year or so removed to Blackshear,
where he lived until his death. His practice soon became one
of large extent and he became one of the most pre-eminent
lawyers of the circuit.

He was first married to Miss Mamie Clopton, a daughter
of Hon. William Clopton, Chief Justice of the Supreme
Court of Virginia. By her he had several children. She died
about 1880, and he married Miss Ida Acosta, a very talented
lady of Blackshear, who survived him. The marriage oc-
curred May 1st, 1882, in Blackshear.

History of Clinch County, Georgia 141

Colonel Nichols was State Senator 1874-75 and 1876-77,
and was a delegate to the Democratic National Convention
in 1876. He was a leading member of the legislature while
senator, and in 1878 was elected to Congress, serving two
years. In 1882 he was re-elected, serving through the ses-
sion of 1883-84 and 1884-85.

Colonel Nichols was a member of the Baptist Church and
served as superintendent af the Baptist Sunday School at
Blackshear a few years. His death occurred at his home in
Blackshear, December 25th, 1894. It was the occasion of
widespread sorrow and regret. In his death the State lost
one of its brightest men. His remains were buried in Laurel
Grove cemetery in Savannah, where the DuPont family has a

Another son of Simon W. Nichols was Waver J. Nichols.
He was a physician by profession, and was bom at Clinton,
Jones County,, in 1831. He graduated at the Charleston (S.
C.) Medical College March 5th, 1854. He married Miss
Mary B. Hally of Dublin, Ga., and soon afterwards settled
in Clinch County to practice his profession. He lived here
the remainder of his life. Dr. and Mrs. Nichols had no
children.

Dr. Nichols was for many years the foremost physician
of the county. He enjoyed a practice of large extent. To-
gether with his brother William M. Nichols they were the
owners of a great area of Clinch County land,, which they
gradually sold off.

Dr. Nichols lived at DuPont. He never sought any polit-
ical office or honor. His death occurred about 1890, and he
was buried at the North cemetery. Mis widow died in 191 2.

CHAPTER XL

Old Families of Crinch County.

THE NEWBERN FAMILY.

OF the Clinch County Newbems, Thomas Newbem
was the progenitor. This old pioneer came to this sec-
tion from South Carolina and settled in what is now
Ware County, about 1820. He was married twice. By his
first marriage he had three children, viz. : John, William C,
and Dryden Newbem. By his second marriage he had five
children, viz. : George W. Newbem ; Cassie, who first mar-
ried Martin Nettles and later Chas. A. Griffis ; Lucretia, who
married Jack Lee ; also a daughter who married James Sweat,
and one who married John Sweat. Thomas Newbern was a
prominent citizen of his time. He was elected surveyor of
Ware County and commmissioned Febmary nth, 1828.
Two years later he was elected a justice of the Inferior Court
of Ware County, to which he was commissioned April 28th,
1 830. He was also commissioned justice of the peace of the
45 1 district of Ware County, April 3d, 1833. He is the fore-
father of many of Clinch's prominent citizens.

John Newbem was bom April 4th, 1801, and married
Mrs. Argent O'Steen, a widow of the Indian wars. By her
he had two children, Matilda, who married William John-
son, and Vicy, who married Robert G. Dickerson, Sr. This
old citizen lived in Ware until Clinch was created. He was
elected sheriff of Ware County in 1832 and commissioned
July 23, 1832. He served one term. He was a member of
the Primitive Baptist Church, and is buried at Arabia Church
above Homerville. His death occurred November 18, 1863.
William C. Newbem was bom about 1805. He was mar-
ried and had only one son, Alfred Newbem, who later be-
came treasurer of Clinch County. William C. Newbem was
a citizen of Lowndes many years, and was elected sheriff of

History of Clinch County, Georgia 143

that county in 1838. He was commissioned January 15th,
1838, but resigned after a short service of a few months. On
January 24th, 1845, ^^ ^^^ commissioned a justice of the
peace of the 658th district of Lowndes county, and on Feb-
ruary 9th, 1850, was commmissioned a justice of the Inferior
Court of Lowndes County. It is not known just when he died.

Dryden Newbern was born in Georgia in 1794. He
Tiarried Elizabeth, a daughter of Josiah and Artie Sirmans.
He was one of the first settlers of what is now Clinch County,
living and dying here. By his wife, Elizabeth, he had seven
children, viz.: Thomas (bom 1829), Martha, Ashley, Ber-
rien, Jr. (born 1845), Caroline and Sallie, who married W.
F. Kirkland. This old man had passed the four-score mark
when he died.

George W. Newbern, a half-brother of the above three,
was bom in Georgia, January ist, 1825. He was married
about 1 845 to Miss Rebecca Thomas, a daughter of Absalom
Thomas, who was one of the first justices of the Inferior
Court of Ware County. They had eight children, viz. : Ab-
salom T. Newbern (bom 1849), who was later a deputy
sheriff of Clinch County ; Matilda, who first married Martin
Joyce, and later H. D. O'Quin; Vicy, who first married A.
E. Smith, Jr., later E. J. Benton, Jr., and still later H. D.
O'Quin; Belle, who married C. H. North; William C. New-
bern, Jr.; Jackson Newbern; George W. Newbem, Jr., and
Argent, who married A. B. Findley. Mr. Newbern, Sr., hefd
several offices of trust and honor in Clinch County, and was
the second clerk of the Superior Court. He was an able min-
ister of the Baptist Church. He died in Homerville, July
loth, 1892, and is buried at the North cemetery, near Du-
Pont. A more detailed sketch of his life will be found else-
where in this book.

Cassie Newbern was bom about 1820. She was first mar-
ried to Martin Nettles, and by him had seven children, viz.:
Martin Nettles, Jr., Elizabeth, who married John C. Kirk-
land ; Martha, who married Warren Douglas ; Thomas Net-

144 History of Clinch County, Georgia

tics, James Nettles, Mary Ann, who married Jordan Boyt,
Berry Nettles, Julia Ann, who married Hampton Bennett.
Her second husband was Charles A. Griflis, who she mar-
ried in 1 854. To them were bom two sons, John G., and Wit
liam D. Griffis. The latter moved to Pierce County in 1875,
and in 191 2 was elected ordinary of that county. Mrs.
Griffis died in 1883.

Lucretia Ncwbem, who married Jack Lee, lived and died
in Clinch County. She had several children. The other two
daughters were Elizabeth and Mary Ann Newbem. Eliza-
beth married James Sweat and after her death he married
her sister, Mary Ann, who was a widow of his brother,
John Sweat. James Sweat and John Sweat were residents of
Ware County.

THE SIRMANS FAMILY.

The Sirmaiis family, as has been stated before in this book,
was one of the first to settle in what is now CKnch County.
They came here in 1822 from Emanuel County and settled
00 die place where J. B. Strickland now lives in the Mud
Creek district. Those who came were Josiab Sirmans, Sr.,
and his family, bichding his sons, Benjamin, Joseph, Jona-
than, and Abner Sirmans. To-day their descendants are quite
numerous in Clinch and Berrien Counties-

Josiah Sirmans, Sr., was bom in 1767, and married Miss
Artie Hardeman, a daughter of Thomas Hardeman, Sr. To
them were bom Benjamin Sirmans, Sr., Joseph Sirmans, Jon-
athan Sirmans, Abner Sirmans^ Sr., Rachel, who married
Eustice Studstifl ; Bcttie Sirmans, who married Dryden New-
bem, and Sarah Ann, who married an Adams, of Florida.
At the time Josiah Simfians, Sr., settled here, it was then
Irwin County, later Lowndes County. He did not live to see
the Indian wars of 1836-58. He died January 6th, 1830,
and is burkd at the Fender graveyard on the Allapaha River,
m this county. His grave is probably the oldest marked
grave in the county.

HON S. C. TOWNSEND

Former Representative from Clinch County.

Elected State Senator from Fourth District, 1916.

SHERMAN L. DRAWDY

A former Representative and Judge of County Court.

Resigned the latter in 1916.

History of Clinch County, Georgia 145

Benjamin Sirmans was born in Emanuel County, Febru-
ary 6th, 1792. When thirty years of age he came with his
father to this section. His wife was Miss Martha Johnson,
a daughter of David Johnson, Sr., and a sister to Gen. David
Johnson. Their children were : David J. Sirmans, Josiah Sir-
mans, Jr., Ezekiel J. Sirmans, Cassie, who married John
Smith; Lavinia, who married Aaron Tomlinson; Martha,
who married Elihu Morgan ; Lucretia, who married Charles
Strickland; Benjamin E. Sirmans, Lyman A. Sirmans, and
Levi J. Sirmans. Benjamin Sirmans represented Lowndes
County in the legislature several years and served one term
as State senator from Clinch County. He was also a dele-
gate to the secession convention in Milledgeville in 1861.
He died May ist, 1863, and is buried at the Fender grave-
yard. His wife preceded him to the grave by about seven
years.

Joseph Sirmans was born in Emanuel County, May i6th,
1808, and his wife's name was Miss Rebecca Smith, a daugh-
ter of Rev. William Smith. He lived in the Mud Creek dis-
trict and served one term as representative from Clinch
County after the Civif War. His children were : Artie, Mary,
John, Nancy, Matilda and Lucretia Sirmans. These were
by his first marriage, and by his second marriage, to Mrs.
Sallie Howell, he had a son, Isaac Sirmans. His first wife
died in 1856, and his second wife died in 1887. He died
October 7th, 1888, and was buried at the Fender graveyard.

Jonathan Sirmans was born about 1 800. He lived in what
is now Clinch County a short while and removed to what is
now Berrien County. Here his descendants are quite numer-
ous. He married Miss Martha Rouse, and they had several
children. He died about 1875.

Abner Sirmans, Sr., was born about 1793 and married
Miss Bettie Kirkland, a sister of Timothy Kirkland. To
them were bom : Hester, Jinsie, Benjamin, Roxie, John, Tally
and Abner Sirmans, Jr. The elder Sirmans was commis-
sioned a justice of the peace of the 664th district of Lowndes

146 History of Clinch County, Georgia

County January aoth, 1^829, and served four years. Subse-
quently he removed to Early County, where he died in 1837.
Uis.aon, Abner 'Sinnans, Jtr.,iis;now living at the.age .of ^2.

Rachel ^Sirmans was born in .1794, and married Eustiee
.Studstill. Their children were: Manning, Jonathan, Jiachfil,
.Sarah and John .Studstill. Eustijce Studstill removed to Ala-
bama, where hedied in ORusselLCounty in J837. fHis widow
died in 1878 cand is buried. at the Fender graveyard.

Bettie Sirmans, who married iDryden Newbem, was born
in 1795, anditheir children were : Thomas, Martha, Ashley,
Berrien, iDryden, Jr., Caroline and Sallie Newbem,— the
latter married W. F. Kirkland.

Notes on grandrchildren of Josiah Sirmans, Sr. :

.David J. Sirmans, a ^on of JBen)amin Sirmans, was bom
March 1st, 18 19, .and married EUza Wilkerson, a daughter
of John Wilkerson, of South Carolina. To them was bom :
Lewis, who married Rachel Lightscy; Alice, TuUy, Lucius,
who married Eliza ,Fiveash,. and Josiah, who,married Fannie
L. Lott, andtEzekiel:S. Sirmans, who married Martha Reg-
ister, and Benjamin, who married Ida Crum. Josiah Sirmans,
3d, was ( postmaster at Homerville several years and died in
.1881. His son, W. 'E. Sirmans, of Waycross, is a prominent
real estate dealer of that city.

Josiah Sirmans, ad, was bom March .25th, 18 17. He mar-
ried Mary Roberts, a daughter of John T. Roberts, and their
children were :Roena, who married Thomas Ridgall ; Phoebe,
who marriedJLewisHoltzendorf, Benjamin J. Sirmans, who
married tBlizabeth Thane, David Sirmans, Malinda, who
married David Dickerson first, and later lElias iL. ,R6berts,
Lucretia, who, married Frank L. Allen; Martha, who married
W. L. Courson. The elder Sirmans was commissioned justice
< of the peace of the 664th district of .Lowndes County,. October
15th, i&g8,rWhen he was just twenty-one years old. He died
Eebruary^oth, iS 80,. and is buried at the Fender graveyard.

.Ezekiel J. Sirmans was bom February 28th, 1824. He
had three children by his wife, who was fEliza , Bennett, ^viz. :

-J

Mistany otf xClifirh Qounty, ^Georgia 147

U^ankHn B. cSirmaius, Manassas v-SirmanGs Btid Caroline .^Stal-
vey. He was the first itax collector of Clinch -Connty. He
died April xith, ij900,;and\is-buriedatthe Fender graveyard.
J^tFanklin B.^Sinnans was estate senator from the fifth distrkt
<three fte^ms.

Cassie Sirmans, who ^married John Smith, son:of William
Smith, was bom about :r8 iB. rTheir children were : Martha,
•William S., Lavinia, JRachel, John W., Sirmans S., Charlton
H„ Nancy, General J., Herschel B., .and J>avid J. Smith.
Mrs. Smith died about 1900.

Lavinia Sirmans, who married Aaron Tomlinson, was bom
in 1822. Their children were 'Elizabeth, Lucretia, Nancy,
Candacy, ^Melvina, Ijorena, Josiah, Aaron and Charlotte
Tomlinson.

Martha Sirmans, who married Elihu Morgan, lived in
•Echols County. Their children were 'Benjamin, Joseph and
Viola Morgan.

'Lucretia 'Sirmans, who married Charles Strickland, was
bom in 1827. Their children were: Mariha, who married
^Elias'L. Moore; Mary Ann, Who married 'Daniel Dickerson;
'Louis Strickland, ^B. F. Strickland, Colquitt or 'Colly Strick-
land, Isafbelle Roberts, Allen J. Strickland, Lucinda, Joseph
B., and Amanda, who married F. B. Sirmans; Lyman J.
^Strickland, and Kizzie Strickland.

Benj amin E. Sirmans was born July 1 4th, 1 831 , the son
of Benjamin Sirmans. He married 'Francenia E. Carroll, a
native of North Carolina. To them were bom David 'C,
Maggie, Jesse, Joseph, 'William, Charlie, TVf artha, and Min-
nie Sirmans. The dder Sirmans died November 22d, 1877,
and was buried at the^Fender graveyard.

^Levi Jdhnson Sinnans was bom Febmary 24<h, 1837, the
son of Benjamin Sirmans. We married Victoria 'O. Mattox,
daughter of Hon. Elijah Mattox, and to them were bom
Cicero M., 'Hden, Ulysses, Julia, Octavius, John L., and
Cornelia Sirmans. Mr. Sirmans for some time prior to his
dedth 'lived in Lowndes County above Naylor, wrtiere he died

148 History of Clinch County, Georgia

May 6th, 191 5, the last member of the famous coterie of
children of Benjamin and Martha Sirmans.

Lyman A. Sirmans was bom April ist, 1838, the son of
Benjamin Sirmans. He was admitted to the bar and prac-
ticed law in Homerville for several years. He married Miss
MoUie Griffin, daughter of Rev. W. W. Griffin. To them
was bom two children. Noble A. Sirmans and a daughter,
who married Frank A. Smith. Colonel Sirmans died April
2 2d, 1 9 10, at his home in DuPont. He is buried at the North
cemetery.

THE HARGREAVES FAMILY.

The Hargreaves, of Lancashire, were an ancient Saxon
family at the time of the conquest by William the Norman,
in the year 1052. Through all the vicissitudes of time and
change for more than a thousand years they have been a
powerful and distinguished family in their native land.

The Hargreaves, of Georgia, are descendants from John
Hargreaves, of Heir's House, Colne, Lancashine, England,
who died about 1820. His three sons, Abraham, Thomas
and John, came to this country about 1825, and were first in
South Carolina, but soon afterwards came to Georgia, set-
tling in what is now the County of Coffee.

Abraham Hargreaves married Rhoda, daughter of John
Carver, and was the father of a large family. He died about
1872 and is buried at the old Hargreaves homestead, near
Millwood, Ga.

His son, John C. Hargreaves, was born June 5th, 1838,
and died September 13th, 1876. He was a corporal in Co.
"I" 4th Georgia Cavalry, organized at Homerville, January
1st, 1863. While on leave of absence from the army he was
married to Parthenia, daughter of Thomas and Jane
(Moody) Morgan, oT Tom's Creek, Echols County, on Feb-
mary 5th, 1864. He was a brave and efficient soldier and
fought until discharged at the close of the war.

After the surrender, he settled in southern Clinch, near

History of Clinch County, Georgia 149

Wiregrass post office, and reared a family of five children.
In 1876 he moved to southern Florida and settled on Tsala
Apopka Lake, where the town of Inverness now stands. He
died there in a few months and was buried in old Fort
Cooper cemetery. After his death his family lived in Georgia.

His children were: Linnie, first wife of George M. Dame;
Abraham, who married Georgia Bazemore ; Mary, who mar-
ried Judson Taylor, of Tampa, Fla.; Bettie, who married
Jesse W. Pennington, of Jasper, Fla., and Georgia, who mar-
ried William Collier, and is now living in Valdosta, Ga.

John Hargreaves was a man of ideal character and of un-
usual intelligence, and is said to have been one of the best
read men of his day. Sidney Hargreaves, late of Ware
County, was a brother of John C. Hargreaves.

Susan Hargreaves, a sister of John C. Hargreaves, mar-
ried Jonathan L. Morgan, of Clinch County, and became
the mother of A. H. Morgan, Mrs. Frank C. Folks, of Way-
cross, and Mrs. Linnie Taylor. Mrs. Morgan died June
28, 19 1 6, and was the oldest living member of the family.
She was 82 years old. Linnie, another sister of John C. Har-
greaves, married George Moody, son of Jacob Moody.

An old single-barrel shot-gun or rifle, of the kind used a
hundred years ago, is now in the possession of Mr. John H.
Smith, of Clinch County. This gun was brought to America
by Abraham Hargreaves when he emigrated to this country.

THE GRIFFIS FAMILY.

The Griffis family is an old family of Clinch County, and
like the Smiths, there are several branches of it. The ances-
tor of one branch who settled in Clinch was Juniper Griffis,
while Samuel Griffis, Sr., was the ancestor of another branch.
Charles A. Griffis, with his uncle, Joel Griffis, was still an-
other branch.

Juniper Griffis and his descendants :

Juniper Griffis was born in Appling County, February
4th, 1808. He died in 1905, age 97 years, being the oldest

ii5P ihstory of Clinch County, Georgia-

mait in- the county at the- time of his; deaths. He married Miis»
Viney Seam,, fflsbec q£ Hiram Seara, andiby her had- fiyesonK
and five* daughters. Hia sons: were: Eliasi G(riffis,. F. NL
Gniffisv William and Charles Ginffis, Rhoda Griffisv a> sister
of Juniper Griffiis, marriedl William: Goribitt (see Gorbito) .

Elias Griffis^ married Catherine BalBsy, and their childiien
were: Wilbum, Riehmondi Juniper^ Elias L.,. Viola> who
married Jc Walter James; Marietta, Matilida:, who> married-
L. H. Locldiear; and Lavina, who; married A. J% Loddiear.
Mr. Griffia s^i^^ed' in die Civil War in Co. "F* 4th' Georgia
Caivalry. He became very wealthy,, owning^ much landi He
died about 1895.

Francis- Marion Griffia married Victoria Cowart, and
their children were: Mary, Viney andi Jtohn Griffis; He died
January 2 8th^ rSgS-

William Griffia was born in 1841?, and married OKve
Sears, a daughter of Hiram Sears, and their chiidren were:
Laura, Harriet, Berta, William and Charles; Griffia; Mr.
Griffia- served one term aa taix collector of Clinch. County.
He died in 19 15, at his home in Waa-c County at Millwoods

Charles Griffia was bom about 1835, and married Sallie
Roberts, a daughter of John' T. Roberta. Their childlren
were: F; M. Grlffi^. Jr., Rebecca* and Sarat Anni Griffia. Hie-
aerved in the Confiederate Anmy, and died during the war
at w hoapital in Savannak His widow later married George
W. Delk, and to them were born seven children.

Samuel Griffis was bom in this State in 1807, and married
Miss Naomi Kiridand, and by her had eight children;. Among
their children were Nancy,. Rebecca, Sealy, Martha, and
Joel G, Griffis. Samuel Griffis died April 27th, 1884.

Jiod G. Griffia was bom in 1 846. and married Nancy, a
daughter of John S. Henderson, December 23 d, 1869. They
had several children. Mr. Griffis was for several years, a jua*-
tice of the peace of the rr4iat Diatrict.

Charles Griffis was an early setder of Appling County. He
waa a native of South Carolina, where he waa born about

Ifwt^ry of: Glinch Gffunty, Gsorgih' 15 1

1795. Kfe lived and* died in Appling County . His brothew
were Jbhn, Joel- Richard and Bfeny Griffis. Of these Ihroth-
ers, two lived* in Glirnch County, Joei^ and Berry: Charles^ A.
GrifflB, a son of Charlfes Griffis> was bom^ in Appling Cbunty
October 30th, 1826. He married^ Mrs. Cassie'NetMes, widbw
of Mkrtin' Ntetdes, and* dkughtter of Thomas Newbem. To
them two sons were bom, John G., and W. I>. Griffis. Charles^
A. Griffis served for about fiftteen years as justice of the peace
of the 1 06 1 St district. H^ died' in Pierce County March nth,
1914, at the home of his son, W. D. Griffis.

Jbel Griffis, an unclfe of Chas. A. Griffis, was. born in this
St^Ette in 1803, and died about 1870. Among his children
were John, bom 1851; Elizabeth, born 1849; Noah, bom,
L8<f5J, and JoelJ Griffis^ J^;

Berry Griffis, a' brother of Joel' Griffis, was bom^ in r8o8,
and died about rSSfo. Among his children were Sarah, bom
1842; Berry, Jr., born 1845; Matilda, born vi'4.6; James^
R., bom 1848; Abraham, bom 1850, and John Griffis,
bom 1852.

Joel Griffis, Jr., was bom Ottober 9th, 1831. He lived,
many years where J. L. Morgan subsequently lived in the
rr4'ist district, but later moved to where the t^ownof Wirflers
now is. He died February 9tfe, 1 8*79. He had' several chil-
di^en by his wife, Sarah, among them being Mitchell, b^m
r85'2; Samuel B'., bom 185-5; A. R. G., bom 1857; Rhoda,
bom 1860; Harriet, bom 1862?; Candfeicy, born 1864, and
P. W. Griffiis, bom^ 1869.

Dixon Griffis, son of Bferry Griffis, was born January i^,
1 844. He married Nancy, daughter of David* D: Johnson,
by whom he had a* son^ Lucius G. Griffis, and several- daugh-
ters; He was a mail' carrier on the Homerville-Lyken route^ a
fiew years^ prior to- his- death, July 6th, 19 10.

T»E SMITH FAMILY.

Lawrence Snuth; was. probably one of thr most promiiuent
members^ of the older Smiths of GlincHj County. He wasi a

152 History of Clinch County, Georgia

native of South Carolina, but came to Georgia in early life.
He was one of the earliest settlers of this county, settling here
about 1825, on lot 424, in the 7th district. Later he removed
and settled on lot 529, in the 12th district. He was married
twice, first to Miss Nancy Smith, and after her death, to Miss
Mary A. E. Braswell. His second marriage occurred October
19th, 1856. He died October 19th, 1859, and is buried at his
old home place. Mr. Smith was burned out by the Indians
at the place where he subsequently died.

The children of this pioneer were John Smith, James C.
Smith, Katie, who married Peter Smith; William E. Smith,
David D. Smith, E. M. T. Smith, Sallie, who married Hiram
Kight, and Nancy, who married Elias Williams. By his sec-
ond marriage two children were bom, Laura arid Frank
Smith, who with their mother removed to Florida. Mr.
Smith's widow later married Daniel Milton, of Columbia
County, Florida.

John Smith, named above, was bom in South Carolina,
June 2 1 St, 1 8 10, and came with his father to Georgia in his
youth. On account of another citizen of the county having
the same name, Mr. Smith was more familiarly known as
John "Highead" Smith. He married Elizabeth StudstfU
about 1 841, and to them was born seven children: Benjamin,
Mary, who married E. D. Allen, Martha, who married
James R. Dickerson; Lyman, John F., Elizabeth, who mar-
ried Berrien Mills, and Emanuel Smith. He was a farmer
and lived northeast of Homreville. His death occurred June
14th, 1879, ^^d he was buried at the Fender graveyard. His
wife died Febmary 24th, 1905.

James C. Smith, named above, was born in South Caro-
lina, March 23d, 18 13. He married in 1840 Miss Margaret
Strickland, of what is now Pierce County. His wife having
died in 1879, he married Miss Emma McLendon. By his
first marriage he had the following children : Allen N. Smith,
William T. Smith, Seward Smith, Ansel Smith, Martha, who
married A. J. Caswell; Sarah, who married M. M. Caswell;

History of Clinch County, Georgia 153

Ellen D., who married Eli W. O'Quin first, and later John
C, Jones; Miriam Lumpkin, who married William S. Mat-
tox; Bettie, who married C. C. Drawdy; Mary, who married
H. A. O'Quin; Kate, who married R. M. McLaughlin, and
Elpha, who married Isaac T. McLendon. By the last mar-
riage the following children were bom : Lawrence C. Smith,
Benny, Leila V., Lonnie Smith, John Devoy Smith and Min-
nie Smith. James C. Smith, as stated elsewhere in this book,
was among the first to engage in hauling and carrying pro-
duce to Darien and other trade centers. He acquired much
property. At first he lived on Cane Creek, not far from
where Homerville now is, but later in the Magnolia district,
where Harris Tomlinson now lives. He sold this during the
war and moved to near Homerville, about four miles south.
His death occurred October 20th, 1894, age 81 years. He
was buried at the Homerville cemetery.

Katie Smith, named above, married Peter Smith, and was
born in South Carolina in 18 19. They lived on what is now
the Peter Smith place in Magnolia district, for many years.
They had the following children: Willie, Harrison, Law-
rence, Nancy, Rowan, Eason, James M., Riley, and Bryant
Smith. Mrs. Smith died about 1875, survived by her hus-
band.

William E. Smith, named above, was born in this State
in November 27th, 1820. He was raised up in what is now
Clinch County, and lived here until his death. He was first
married to a Miss Wester, later he married a sister of W. J.
Strickland, and still later Miss Martha Jernigan. He had
several children, among whom were John Smith, Nicholas J.
Smith, Lucretia, who married J. R. Booth, and Miranda,
who married Ivy Davis. Mr. Smith first lived on the place
now owned by J. F. Turner, but subsequently removed and
settled on lot 457 in the 12th district, where he died. He
died October 2d, 1894, and was buried at Antioch Church.

David D. Smith, named above, was born in this State in
1822. He married Miss Rachael Studstill, and by her had

154 HhPory of Clinch County, Georgia

fourchildt'eii^ viz. : Jbhn H. Smith, SaUie, who married John
M. HodgiBS^; Lawrence Smidi (dead), and Manning Smith
('dead)'. He^ livcd^ for many years prior tto his deatft where
My. G. $\ Darley now lives; near Homerville. He died
about iM6.

Elbert M. T. Smith, son of Laurence Smith, was born in
Ware County in i8'33. He first married a. Miss Floyd, later
Nfiss Eunice, and later Edna, daughter of James M. Burk-
halter. He lived for many years a few miles south of Homer-
ville, but eventually removed to Lowndes County, where he
died in 1901 at Hahira. He had ten children.

Sarah Smith, named above, married Hiram Kight, and
was bom in South Carolina, April 14th, 18 12. She married
Mr. Kight in Ware County, and to» them was bom five chil«-
dren, viz.: James M., Peggie, who married Sherod Smith;
John Kight, Mary and Cuyler Kight. Mrs. Kight died about
1875. F^ many years they lived near Homerville on the
Crum place.

Nancy, daughter of Lawrence Smith, who married! Elias
Williams, was born about 1830, in Ware County. Elias Wil*-
liams was commissioned a justice of the peace of the 970th
district, May nth, 1852. He was killed about 1865. ^^''^
Williams- survived- him many years.

Another* branch of the Smith family in Clinch County is
that of thr descenK&nts> of William Smith; who' settled on
Red* Bluff creek in 1&22. He brought with him a big stock
of cattle^ and= began farming. He was^ bom- about 1 765, and*
his first wife was a Miss Hatt. Their children were : William^
S. Smithy who? liv^? in- Liberty County ; Martha, who married*
Henry Dias; Elinor, who married Jamcs^ Jones;; Nancy, wbo^
married John Williams, St., and John Smith, who^ married^
Ca«sie Sirmaws. After his first wife's death, Mr. Smith mar-
ried^ Miss* N^ter Stephens^ and by this marriage were bomi:
Manning, Jesse, James M., Rd^ecca, who* married Joseph
Sfflians; R)llie;, who> married Newsom* Corbitt; Elizab^Bt,,

Histofj, of Clinch County^ Geiorgm ISS

wJha mmiried Bteivani Pafford^ N^rnii^, who married Thadr
deus Sears, and Fannie, who married M*^^ GarbittJi. St.

William' Smith waa a member of the Printiitijvjer Baptist
Ghumh,, and a minisjb^ oi that ^th. He^ was- electscd justice:
oi^ the peace of the 5816th district in^ 1 830 and m i8^t^. Hte
difitdsaihout 18^.5 and was buried- at Arabia Ghurch,. which he-
helpedi to establish,

Nancy, who manned John Williams, Sir., waa born in 179*.,
and among their children were John Williams, who marriiGNt
ar daughter of John L. Morgan, Jackson S. WilliamSj Elias
WiUiama and Hezefciah P. Williams.

Jfohn. Smith, son of Williiam Smith, was born December
2 2d, 1802. He married Gassie, daughter of Hon. RenjaK
min- Sirmans, an<I by» her had< eleven: children: Martha, who
mattried J. W. Swain; William^ S., lLayinia>, who, maiTied:
James; Lee,, Rachael^ wJu>. maoiried] John C. Simians ; Joha
W. Smith, Sirmans S; Smith,. Charlton H. Smith,. Nancy, who^
married S. G. Saunders; Gtenerait J. Smith, H^erschel B. Smith,
audi Daviti J. Smith. John Smith lived in the Mud! Gireek
district and died June 8th, 1567. He is buried at Arabia
Ghuncfa.

Jfesse Smith, another son of William Smith,, waft bof!Q;
August 25 th, 1820^ on Red Bluff creek. He was in- the
Indian war of 1836-58, and soon: aftei!war<fe married Miss
Nancy Tonrfinsonj, dau^iter of Moses TomKnson, Sr., by
whom he had five childcem: Sherod Snith, Ciceco, John L.,
Fannie C., wha married Henry C. Moore, first, later Jiohn
C. Jones, Maitilda Smith, and Nancy, who m^riedi J. S.
Mattox, Mr. Smith served as representative and as? sheriff
of Clinch Gounty; He died ih^ 1880, and is buried ait the
old R3edf Bluff Church in Clinch Coimty.

James Madison Smith, another son of William Smithy, wa*
hfwn aftout I &30), in what is now GKnch County. He lived
here all his life; He lived to be about 60 years^ of age.

Rebecca, daughter of William Smithy married Hon. Joseph
Sirmans, and was bortt in November, 1 81 1, anxJ died Decern-

156 History of Clinch County, Georgia

ber 20th, 1852. They had six children. She is buried at
the Fender graveyard.

Manning Smith was another son of William Smith, and
was born about 1815. He was commissioned a justice of the
Inferior Court of Ware County in 1845, ^^d held the same
position in Clinch. He married Miss Elizabeth Tomlinson,
daughter of Moses Tomlinson, Sr., and had several children,
among whom were Moses, Lewis, Elijah, Neter and Sarah
Smith.

Another branch of the Smiths in Clinch County was that
of Abraham E. Smith, and his brothers. Kit, Jackson and
John Smith. They came from Barnwell district, S. C, and
settled in then Ware County, about 1845. Abraham E.
Smith was born November 30th, 1824. In 1848 he pur-
chased two lots of land near where Homerville now is (lots
499 and 513, in the seventh district), of Thomas Hilliard.
He lived on them for many years. He married and had sev-
eral children. He died January 4th, 1899.

Kit Smith was bom in 18 12 and died in 1874. His
wife, Nancy, was born in 18 14. Jackson Smith was born
January 27th, 18 14, and died about 1875. John W. Smith
was bom in 1834, and his wife, Rebecca, in 1841. He died
September 3d, 1867, and his wife in 1899.

John J. Smith was a son of Abraham E. Smith, and the
oldest son. He was bom November loth, 1846, and mar-
ried Mary, daughter of Dixon Bennett, in 1863. They had
a large family of children. Mr. Smith joined Co. "H'* 4th
Georgia Reserves under Captain Peeples, in 1863, ^^^ served
until 1865, when he was mustered out at Wilmington, N. C.

There are other small families of Smiths who have lived
in this county. William D. Smith was born in North Caro-
lina in 1 82 1, and his wife, Ann R. Smith, in 1834.

Peter Smith, as stated above, married Katie, daughter of
Lawrence Smith, Sr. Mr. Smith was born in 18 17, in North
Carolina and settled here about 1 840. He died August 8th,
1887, and is buried on his old home place.

History of Clinch County, Georgia 157

THE CORBITT FAMILY.

Isham Corbitt was the ancestor of that branch of the Cor-
bitts who now live in the northern part of Clinch County. He
was a native of Tennessee, and came with his family to this
section about 1840. His wife was Millie Stokes and their
children were: Harbird, Marshal, Newsom, Martin, Wil-
liam, Wealthy, Sealie and Hillman Corbitt, the last named
dying in his youth. Isham Corbitt died about 1855, and is
buried in Berrien County.

Harbird Corbitt was born in Tennessee, January 2d, 1802,
and married Reinie, daughter of Benj. I. Boyett. Their chil-
dren were : Reubin, Daniel, Irwin, Harbird, Warren, Reinie,
Elizabeth, Newsom and James. Harbird Corbitt, Sr., died
about 1865.

Marshal Corbitt was born in Tennessee about 1805, and
married a Miss Guthrie. Their only child was Diana, who
married John Newbern, of Coffee County. After his first
wife died, Mr. Corbitt married Martha Curry and had three
children, Angeline, Isaac and Charles Corbitt.

Newsom Corbitt was born in Tennessee in 1808, and mar-
ried Pollie Smith. Their children were: William, Fannie,
Wealthy, Martin S., Manning, Madison, Neter, Rebecca,
Mary, Elizabeth, and John Corbitt. Newsom Corbitt Sr.,
later married Jane Lewis, but had no children by her. Mr.
Corbitt served one term as State senator from Clinch County,
1868-9, and was several years a justice of the peace.

Martin Corbitt was born in Tennessee in 18 10, and mar-
ried Lydia Curry, a daughter of Isaac Curry. Their chil-
dren were: William, M. L. ("Jewel"), Queen, Newsom,
Elias, Lewis, Millie and Elizabeth Corbitt. Mr. Corbitt was
first married to Fannie Smith, but she died leaving no
children.

William Corbitt was born in Tennessee in 1818 and mar-
ried Rhoda Griflis, a sister of Juniper Griflis. Their children
were: Catherine, Martha, Polly, Sealy, Nancy, Jasper, Ma-

15 8 fMisfory ctf 'Clinch GouHty , Qeorgia

riah, Eliza Ann, Reitm Ann, and Chandks Corbitt. Later he
mavried the widow of Manning Cowart, Sr., but had no other
children.

There is another family of Corbitts in Xjlinch County that
is very distantly related to the above. They are the descend-
ants of Daniel Corbitt, who was bom in South Carolina in
•1804. He came to this section about 1845, ^^^ married
PoUy Bennett, and their children were : Richard, Henry,
John, David, Matilda, who married David Geiger; Fannie,
who married Josqph Crews; Nancy, who married T. L. Boyd,
and Mary, who never married, and Junior Corbitt, who was
killed in the Civil War.

Richard Corbitt was born in 1835, and married Nancy
Geiger. He died February 17th, 1903, and is buried at
Providence or Camp Branch Church. A son, Randall Cor-
bitt, ^rved as treasurer of Clinch County, 1913-1915.

THE MATHIS FAMILY.

Hillery P. Mdthis was brought to this section by his
uncle, James Edmondson, as an orphan and was raised in
Lowndes County. Later he settled in Clinch ^County and par-
ticipated in the Indian wars. He was born in 182 1 and mar-
ried Martha, daughter of S)amuel Register. To them were
born eleven children : Wealthy, Who married Moses Tom-
linson; James A. Mathis, Bryant G. Mathis, John^. Mathts,
Viirginia, who married J. E. Jackson; Hillery C. Matthis,
Daniel W. Mathis, and four others who died in infancy. Mr.
Miithis was bom in Bulloch County and died ibout 1895.

Another branch of the Mdthis family that moved to this
lection in pioneer days, was that of John, Edmund and James
Mafhis, brothers, who moved first to Bulloch County from
North Carolina. After living in Bulloch some years they
came on to this section, John and James settling in What is
now Bemen Couiity, where their descendants now live, and
«Edmund Mathis settled on the edge of the territory of Flor-
ida, kter removing to What is now Clinch County.

Mistery Qfr.ClinchCQtmty,^Georgia 1519

lEdmund.Mathis married Unity, daughter of Samuel -R^g-
iistei:, .and iby her, had three.sons, viz.: Tyr.Q, Jlunn^nd John
Mathis, Jr. ,Mr. Mathis was one of the fiisst members of
•Cow Crreek Church .when it was first Q];:ganized in 1&47, as
was also his wife. When Prospect Church was ^constituted,
in 1859, he became one of the original members of that
church also, moving his membership there.

John Mathis, Jr., married Jemima, daughter of Joshua
Lee, and by her had several children, among .them being
Ezekiel Mathis. The elder Mathis served Clindh County
as coroner several years. He died about 1865, and is buried
at Prospect 'Church in Hamilton County, Fla. He was bom
in Bulloch County.

Tyre Mathis married Nancy, daughter of Joshua Lee. He
was a justice of the Inferior Court of Clinch 'County, 1853-
1854, and is buried at Prospect Church in Clinch County. He
was bom in 1806 and died January 8th, 1891.

Another branch of the Mathis family was Tliomas Mathis,
who married Eady, daughter of Samuel Register. He was
bom in 1808. Mrs. Mathis died Febmary loth, 1869.
Among their children was David G. Mathis. After = his first
wife's death, Mr. Mathis married ^oxie 'Morgan, widow of
Elihu ^Morgan.

THE TOMLINSQN FAMILY.

Perfiaps one of the oldest and most important families of
Clinch County to-day is the Tomlinson ^family. The : first
Tomlinson to < come here camejn 1822, at the same time the
Sivmatis family > came. They came from BuUoah County.

•In Bulloch County, resided John Tomlinson, who was prob-

ablya -soldier df the^Revolution. His wife was Miss Lucretia

HardemaH) a daughter of Thomas Hardeman, of Virginia.

There was born to them the three sons who later settled in

%what is now Clinch County, in 1822.

Jn this connection it might be said that Thomas ?Harde-
f man ihad. seven daughters, all. of whom married into promi-

i6o History of Clinch County, Georgia

nent families. One of them married Jack Jones, and they
had a son, Jack Jones, Jr., who married Mary, a daughter of
Gen. David Johnson. To the latter were bom two sons,
Harrison and Mitchell Jones, who both became identified
with Clinch County. Another daughter of Thomas Harde-
man was Winnie, who married John Moore. To them was
bom John, Elias and Vinson Moore. Another daughter,
Artie, married Josiah Sirmans, who was bom in 1767, and to
them was born those Sirmans brothers, who in later years
became leaders in this county.

Moses, William and John Tomlinson, Jr., were sons of
John and Lucretia (Hardeman) Tomlinson, and emgirated
to this section in 1822. They settled in the Mud Creek dis-
trict, and it is their descendants who to-day form the Tom-
linson family in Clinch County.

Moses Tomlinson was born in 1793 and married Char-
lotte or Lottie Monk, a sister of Malachi Monk. She was
bom in 1797 in South Carolina. To them were born: Lucre-
tia, who married Jonas Driggers; Aaron, who married
Lavinia Sirmans; Elizabeth, who married Manning Smith;
Nancy, who married Jesse Smith; Martha, who married
Martin Fender; Thomas, who married Mary Sirmans; Re-
becca, who married Henry Joyce; Sherod, who married
Sarah Ann Burkhalter, and Enoch, who married Jemima Gid-
dens, and two other sons, Needham and Joseph, who never
married and were killed in the Civil War.

William Tomlinson was bom in 1781, and married Nancy
Register, a sister of Samuel Register, Sr. To them were bom :
Harris, who married Rebecca Driggers ; John, who married
Zilpha Rlegister; Candacy, who married John T. Roberts;
Rebecca, who married James Harvey Mizell; Marcus and
Levin Tomlinson. Also there was another son of William
Tomlinson, named William S. Tomlinson, who served three
terms as representative from Clinch County. The latter mar-
ried Matilda Giddens. William Tomlinson, Sr., died in

Beautiful residence of Hon. J. F. Bamhill, HomerviUe

History of Clinch County, Georgia i6i

1866. His wife, Nancy, was born in 1782, and died about
1873. T.hey are the grandparents of Hon. Moses Tomlin-
son, ex-ordinary of Clinch County.

John Tomlinson, Jr., brother of Moses and William Tom-
Hnson, was born December nth, 1784, and died February
17th, 1858. He never married and was crippled and could
never walk; he amassed a considerable amount of property,
such as cattle, slaves and land, besides much cash money. He
spent his life among his relatives chiefly, and was carried
from place to place by his slaves. He is buried at Prospect
Church in this county.

Grandchildren of John and Lucretia (Hardeman) Tom-
linson :

Aaron Tomlinson, son of Moses Tomlinson, Sr., was born
in 18 1 8, and married Melvina, daughter of Tiner Corbitt,
and to them were born Sallie, who married Jesse Lee ; Nancy,
who married Leonard Fender; Viola, Josiah, Moses, Eliza-
beth, who married George Kinard, and later Daniel Brady;
Lucretia, who married John Watson ; and Candacy, who mar-
ried Cornelius Dawson; and Melvina, Charlotte, Rachael
and Lorena Tomlinson. Mr. Tomlinson died about 1875.

Eliazbeth Tomlinson, daughter of Moses Tomlinson, Sr.,
married Manning Smith, and Nancy married Jesse Smith.
(See Smiths.)

Martha Tomlinson, daughter of Moses Tomlinson, Sr.,
married Martin Fender, and to them were bom Leonard,
Bartlett, Rebecca, Sarah An, and Samantha Fender. She
died about 1865.

Thomas Tomlinson, son of Moses Tomlinson, Sr., married
Mary, daughter of Hon. Joseph Sirmans. Their children
were Rebecca, who married George Pierce; Harris, who mar-
ried Melvina Kinard; Charlotte, who married Lucius Her-
ren; Aaron, Jr., who married a daughter of William Bennett,
and Needham who likewise married a daughter of William
Bennett and Mary Tomlinson. Thomas Tomlinson was born

1 62 History of Clinch County, Georgia

June 26th, 1828, and died August 14th, 1897, and is buried
at the Fender graveyard.

Sherod Tomlinson, son of Moses Tomlinson, Sr., married
Sarah Ann Burkhalter, daughter of Hon. R. H. Burkhalter.
She was bom in 1827. Their children were: John P. Lucius,
Joseph (deceased), Moses, Matthew, Augustus M., Velpo,
William H., Annie, who married Moses C. Register; Amos
B., and Ciby, who married Ratio Bridges. Sherod Tomlin-
son w^as bom Febmary 6th, 1826, and died December 26th,
1885. He served a short while as a justice of the Inferior
court, also as coroner.

Enoch Tomlinson, son of Moses Tomlinson, Sr., was bom
in 1834, and married Jemima Giddens. To them were bom
Duncan V., Joseph P., W. J. or Jasper, Enoch E., Lucretia,
who married James A. O'Steen, and Jemshia, who married
Bryant O'Steen.

Harris Tomlinson, son of William Tomlinson, Sr., was
bom in 1828, and married Martha Driggers. To them was
born John, Caroline, Harris, Jr., Staten B., Levin, Jonas,
James, William, Jr., Rebecca, Lucretia, Sallie and Nancy,
Martha and Zilpha Tomlinson. Mr. Tomlinson was bom
December 8th, 1828 and died May 4th, 1899.

John Tomlinson, Jr., son of William Tomlinson, was bom
December 17th, 1804, and died November 8th, 1863. He
married Zilpha, a daughter of Samuel Register. She was bom
Febmary 4th, 1807, and died August 4th, 1883. Their
children were William, who married Caroline Stalvey; Har-
ris, who married Martha Stalvey; Elizabeth, who married
Absalom Smith; Sallie, who married Benj. S. Stalvey; Guil-
ford, who married Sarah Walden; Kittie, who married
George W. Stalvey; Nancy, who married Moses Stalvey;
Moses, who married Wealthy E. Mathis; Samuel, who mar-
ried Elizabeth Mikell; Levin, who married Katie Moore;
Penelope, who married D. C. Lancaster; John, who
married Georgia Alderman, and Zilpha (never married).

History of Clinch County, Georgia 163

Candacy Tomllnson, who married John T. Roberts, was
bom in 181 1, and their children were Moses, John, Isham,
William, Tharp, Sallie, Rebecca, Lavinia and Matilda
Roberts.

Rebecca Tomlinson, daughter of William Tomlinson, Sr.,
who married James Harvey Mizell, had several children,
among whom were William Mizell and a daughter who mar-
ried Jas. Roberts.

William S. Tomlinson was born in 1822 and married Ma-
tilda Giddens. To them were born John G., Kizzie, Isbin,
Matthew, George F., Mary and Alice Tomlinson. John G.
Tomlinson was born January ist, 1846, and died July i8th,
1893. Isbin Tomlinson was born in 1852, and died in No-
vember, 1 89 1.

THE BENNETT FAMILY.

John Bennett came from Samps6n County, N. C, about
1830 and settled about two miles north of where Stockton
now is in this county. He died about 185 1, age about 80
years. He married Sallie, a sister of Samuel Register, and
to them were bom Dixon, Felix, Abraham, Wiley, Redding,
Polly, Bettie and Dicy Bennett.

Dixon Bennett was born in 1810, and died May 6th, 1871,
He married Sallie Driggers, and their children were John,
William, Mark, Matthew? Sallie, who married Ezekiel
Mathis, and Mary, who married John J. Smith.

Felix Bennett married Rebecca Smith, and their children
were John, Felix, Redden, Dixon, Hansford, James, Rai-
ford B., and Abraham Bennett. Felix Bennett, Sr., was born
in 1 8 13 and died in 1863.

Abraham Bennett was born about 1820, and married
Katie McGill. Their children were Dixon, Jasper, Marion,
Abram, Andrew, Lovedy, Tracie, Eliza and Flora Bennett.

Wiley Bennett was born November loth, 1825, and mar-
ried Luraney Harnage, daughter of George Harnage. To
them were born Sarah Ann, who married D. J. Jeffords;

164 History of Clinch County, Georgia

Abram, who married Sarah J. Taylor; Jerry, who married
Ida Maine; Lucinda, who married Henry Fender; Guil-
ford, who married Mattie Tomlinson; Redding, J., who
married Mary Whilden; Dicy, who married T. J. Smith;
Henry, who married Minerva Hamage; Levi, who mar-
ried Ola Bennett; Wiley; Nellie, who married Jesse Cham-
bers; Ben S., who married a Miss Chambers. Wiley Bennett,
Sr., died December 7th, 1896. His wife was borji in 1836,
and died in 1873.

Redding Bennett was bom January 19th, 1829, and mar-
ried Annie Hamage, daughter of George Harnage. Their
children were Sallie ; Christina, who married Henry Guthrie ;
James Seward, who married Malinda Register; Ambrose,
who married Matilda Guthrie; Wiley, Levin, Mahala,
Bethany, Minerva, Emaline, and Annie Bennett. Mr.
Bennett died Febmary 8th, 1905, and is buried at Cow
Creek Church. •

There are other branches of the Bennett family in Clinch
County, but they are not numerous. They are descended from
Richard A. Bennett, who married Lavinia Newman, and
who was many years a justice of the peace in Clinch County,
and from John P. Bennett, who was born in 18 19, and died
December 12th, 1907.

THE DAME FAMILY.

This family came from Cheshire, England, where they
have been freeholders since the reign of Edward the Fourth,
a period of about five hundred years. Where they formerly
lived is now known as the parish of "Leighton-Cain Minshal
Vernon," in the town of Nautwick in Cheshire.

One of the most interesting stories of the English family
is about Thomas Dame (or Damme, as it was sometimes
spelled) who lived to a very great age. He was born in the
year 1494, and died in 1648, age 154 years. He was buried
in the churchyard of the parish of Church Minshal near
Middlewick in Cheshire. The register of his death is stiU

History of Clinch County, Georgia 165

in existence, and is marked around with ink to call attention
to the remarkable age. This is a copy of it :

Thomas Damme, of Leiggton, burled ye
20th of Ffebbruarie, being of the age
of seven score and fourteen, 1648.

M*i

His wife is also buried in Church Minshal. He is said to
have danced a hornpipe at the celebration of the opening of
the present bridge over the river Weaver at Church Minshal,
he then being 104 years old.

As nearly as can be found out, most of the family emi-
grated during the Puritan troubles in England in the seven-
teenth century, part going to Holland, where they are said to
have established the Van Dam family, some to France, es-
tablishing the Daime family, one becoming a French General,
and part coming to America.

The first settlers of the name in America were John Dame,
who settled in Dover, New Hampshire, in 1633, ^^^ ^^'
came the ancestor of the Dame family in the New England
States, and John Dame, who settled Virginia in 1638. John
Dame, a lineal descendant of the original settler in Virginia,
was an officer in the Continental army in the Revolutionary
War, and commanded the Maryland Flying Corps.

The Dame family in Georgia is descended from George
Dame and Mary Greene, his wife, who lived in Christ
Church parish, Middlesex County, Virginia. Their children
were Mary, who married John Jarvis, and George, bom
March 9th, 1784, and John Dame.

George and John Dame were soldiers of the War of 18 12,
with England. George was a private, first in Capt. John
Waller's company of the 9th Regiment of Virginia Militia,
and later in Capt. Tom Faulkner's company of the 9th Reg-
iment, and later served in the 6ist Regiment. John Dame

1 66 History of Clinch County, Georgia

was a private in the 21st Regiment of Virginia Militia,
Gloucester County. After the War of 1 8 1 2, they moved to
Georgia, John settling in Jones County, and George in Mont-
gomery County. The latter married Catherine Carter, a
daughter of Elmore Carter and his wife, Delilah West, who
were descended from the eminent Virginia families of those
names.

The children of George Dame and Catherine Carter were :
Delilah, who married Fiveash; Elizabeth, who married
Higgs; George Appling, who married Sarah Thigpen,
Nancy, who married O'Quin; Margaret, who married Five-
ash; Matilda (died single); Charity, who married Gibbs;
Emaline, who married, first, W. H. Clifton, and then R. B.
Johnson; James W., who married Fannie Minshew, and
Martha, who married Hutto.

After the war between the States, George Dame moved
to Clinch County, but soon afterwards died at the age of
eighty-four, and with his wife is buried at the old Dame
homestead near Dames' Mill, in this county.

George Appling Dame married Sarah Thigpen, of Mont-
gomery County, who was the daughter of Melancthon Thip-
pen, and Barbara Ricks. Melancthon Thigpen was the son
of Travi^ Thigpen and Hannah Hardy. Barbara Ricks was
the daughter of Richard Ricks and Elizabeth Herren. These
were all great slave-holding families of Middle Georgia.

George Appling Dame, having strong religious scruples
against the waging of war, but loyal to his State and having
deep sympathy for the distress of her citizens, was put on
detail duty, and gave practically all he had for the relief of
the widows and orphans of his neighbors. He moved to
Clinch County in 1864, and died in 1882. He is buried at
Prospect Church near DuPont. The children of Mr. Dame
and his wife, Sarah, were : Arlia, who married Harris Tom-
linson; George Melancthon Dame, who married Linnie Har-
greaves; William Henry Dame, who married Caroline Cor-

History of Clinch County, Georgia 167

nelius; John Thigpcn Dame, who married Olivia Brown,
Kate Harwell, and Emma Smith, and Charles Elmore Dame,
who died single.

James W. Dame, brother of George A. Dame, married
Fannie Minshew, and was the father of five children : Lillian,
George Tecumseh, John Minshew, Christopher Columbus,
and James Willoughby Dame. Mr. Dame was bom Sep-
tember 15th, 1836, and died May 23d, 1891. He served in
Company **H" 29th Georgia, in the Civil War.

George A. Dame served as surveyor of Clinch County,
while his son, George M. Dame, was long surveyor and also
county treasurer. Another son, John T. Dame, is the pres-
ent ordinary of Clinch County. H. J. Dame served a term as
county attorney and several terms as mayor of Homerville, is
at present school superintendent of Citrus County, Fla. Flem
C. Dame served a term as county superintendent of schools
and several terms as Mayor of Homerville.

THE REGISTER FAMILY.

The Register family is one of the most widely connected
families of any in the county. The first one of this family
to come here was Samuel Register, who removed to this sec-
tion about 1825 or 1830. He had a large family. Also
there were Sallie, wife of John Bennett, and Nancy, wife of
William Tomlinson, Sr., who were Samuel Register's sisters.

Samuel Register married Elizabeth Skinner. He was bom
December ist, 1786, and died April 8th, 1869, leaving a
large estate. His children were : Guilford, David, John, Wil-
liam, Samuel E., Elizabeth, who married William Patten;
Martha, who married Hillery P. Mathis ; Zilpha, who mar-
ried John Tomlinson; Ivy Register, Eady, who married
Thomas Mathis; Phoebe, who married Zachariah Lee, a
daughter, who married Hillery Cowart, and one who married
Moses C. Lee, and H. M. Register.

Abram Register was another early settler of this county,
living here in 1870. He was born in 1801, and seems to be

1 68 History of Clinch County, Georgia

a brother of Samuel Register. He married and had a daugh-
ter, Harriet, who married John Hilliard. To them were
bom one son, Mitchell H. Hilliard. John Hilliard was
killed in the Civil War. Mrs. Harriet Hilliard was bom
April 4th, 1833, ^^d after the death of Mr. Hilliard mar-
ried Peter Stalvey, who died about 1888. She died Janu-
ary 8th, 1 9 10.

Guilford Register, son of Samuel Register, lived in Echols
County, and was born in 18 10. He was the first represen-
tative from Echols County to the Legislature. He died about
1894. He lived in Hamilton County, Fla., several years
prior to his death.

William Register, a son of Saumel Register, lived in
Clinch County, and was born September 29th, 18 14. He
was married to Laurana, a daughter of George Harnage,
May 24th, 1838. They had the following children, named
in the order of their birth :

Samuel W. Register, John T. Register, Guilford A. Reg-
ister, Oliver P. Register, Abraham R. Register, Harris Reg-
ister (died in infancy), Mary E. Register, who married
Elsea Allen first, later J. D. Weaver; Martha Register, who
married Ezekiel S. Sirmans, Moses C. Register, Orren Reg-
ister and William J. Register.

William Register accumulated much property. He died
September 4th, 1893. He is buried at Cow Creek Church.
His wife is also buried there.

Zilpha Register, daughter of Samuel Register, married
John Tomlinson, and they had thirteen children (see Tom-
linsons). She was born Febmary 4th, 1807, and married
Mr. Tomlinson about 1826. She died August 4th, 1883,
and is buried at Cow Creek Church. Her son, Moses Tom-
linson, was for two terms ordinary of Clinch County, and
served eight years as tax collector.

Phoebe Register, daughter of Samuel Register, married
Zachariah Lee, a son of Joshua Lee, and they had a son,
Perry M. Lee. Mrs. Lee was bom August 15th, 1823, and

._ I '' _ J- ' "1 ; a ' Ti ■ I ."WFT^aaar »*i ifiaujw.^— ^i*^"^^— ^"^^^^ -^ ^ ' ^— ^^^— — ^^j^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

History of Clinch County, Georgia 169

married about 1847. ^^ ^^^^ January 26th, I5K>5) ^nd is
buried at Prospect Church. Perry M. Lee served as ckrk
of the Superior Court, and is now a county commissioner of
Clinch County.

Eady Register, daughter of Samuel Register, married
Thomas Mathis, and they had a son, David G. Mathis. She
was born about 1820, and died February loth, 1869.

David Register, a son of Samuel Register, was for many
years a justice of the peace of the 970th district. He married
and had several children, among them Samuel Register, who
now lives near Fargo. David Register died in 1859. Men-
tion of his grandsons is made elsewhere in this connection.

Samuel Register, Sr., was the owner originally of the land
whereon the town of Stockton now is. He had it laid off
into town lots and developed a station when the Atlantic &
Gulf Railroad was built through. The town was at first
called Registerville, but later Stockton.

Samuel W. Register, a son of William Register, was for
fifteen years clerk of the Superior Court of Clinch County.
Another son, Guilford A. Register, served as tax collector.

W. A. Register, a son of Samuel Register and grandson of
David Register, was bom in Clinch County, near where
Fargo now is, February 4th, 1869. He went to Florida in
1890, and engaged in the timber business in Liberty County
for eight years, after which he went to Leon County, where
he settled. He located near Woodville, Florida, and en-
gaged in farming and stock-raising. He was elected a mem-
ber of the board of county commissioners of Leon County in
1904, and served six years. In 19 12 he was elected repre-
sentative from Leon County in the Florida Legislature and
served two years. He married Miss Cora Lee Ferrell, Dec.
4th, 1898, and has six children. Mr. Register has been quite
successful in his business and has accumulated much property.

His brother, D. F. Register, also lives at Woodville,
Florida. He was born in 1871, and removed to Leon
County, Florida, in 1902, where he engaged in farming and

1 70 History of Clinch County, Georgia

stock-raising. His wife was Miss Alma Swcaringen, of
Clinch County.

Another brother, Lee Register, removed to Jasper, Flor-
ida, where he has served as representative from Hamilton
County in the Florida Legislature. Still another brother,
Guilford C. Register, has for the last ten years or longer,
served as a deputy sheriff of Clinch County, and was for one
term justice of the peace of the 1219th district.

The children of Samuel W. Register, son of William Reg-
ister, were Augustus Otis Register, Delia, who married Eli
J. Futch; Malinda, who married J. S. Bennett; Henrietta,
who married Harlen McLain; Effie, who married J. E. Jor-
dan; Bertha, who married L. S. Malone; Meddie, who mar-
ried D. E. Kirkland, and Jeannette, who married H. J.
Griffis, and Victoria, who married M. H. Hilliard.

The children of Guilford A. Register, son of William Reg-
ister, were Elbert B. Register, Payton C. Register, Jasper D.
Register, Isbin F. Register, Benjamin H. Register, Richard
E. Register, Charles A. Register, Harriet, who married J.
B. Coon.

Orrin Register, son of William Register, was bom March
15th, 1858, and died in Lowndes County, where he had pre-
viously removed, September i6th, 191 1. He married a
daughter of James M. Burkhalter, and they had several
children.

Abraham R. Register, son of William Register, was born
February 8th, 1846, and died at his home in the 970th dis-
trict, October 5th, 1906. He married Elizabeth, daughter
of Benj. Stalvey, and had a large family of children.

John T. Register was born February loth, 1841, the son
of William Register. He married and raised a large fam-
ily of children, among whom were Perry A. Register, Lucius
R. Register, Henry Register, Ben S. Register, Dallas G.
Register. The elder Register died in November, 191 5.

Oliver Perry Register was born January 22d, 1844, the

History of Clinch County, Georgia 171

son of William Register. He raised a large family. One
of his daughters married Mr. L. L. DuPont. Mr. Register
died in 1912.

THE MORGAN FAMILY.

The Morgans, of Clinch County, are descendants from
Berrien Morgan and his wife, Linnie Nesmith, who lived in
North Carolina during the Revolutionary War. Berrien
Morgan was a nephew of Daniel Morgan, the famous Amer-
ican general, and was the grandfather of Gen. John H. Mor-
gan, the great Confederate cavalry leader. There is a tra-
dition in the family that they are of Welsh descent and col-
lateral descendants of Sir Henry Morgan, Governor of
Jamaica, and sometimes admiral in the English navy, later as
a Buccaneer he spread terror to the gilded galleons of the
Spanish main.

The children of Berrien Morgan and his wife, Linnie
Nesmith, were Solomon, Tom, Elihu, John, Brice and a
daughter, who married Joseph Marshall.

Elihu Morgan was born in 1795, and married his cousin,
Linnie Nesmith. Their children were Elihu, Thomas C,
John L., Joseph and several daughters. He owned real
estate in 1850 to the value of $6,000, quite a considerable
amount for those days. He lived in then Clinch but now
Echols County.

Thomas Morgan, son of Berrien Morgan, lived and died
in Clinch County. He was born in 1796, and his wife, Eliza-
beth, in 1 8 15. They had several children, among whom
was Thomas F., Martin Z. and Jonathan L. Morgan, who
removed to Clinch County in i860, from Appling County.
Thomas Morgan lived to be about eighty years old.

John L. Morgan was a son of Berrien Morgan, and was
born in 1802. He died in 1888, and is buried at the Homer-
ville cemetery. He was for many years ordinary of Clinch
County. He had several children, among whom were his
sons, John L. Morgan, Jr., Thomas C. Morgan, Joseph,

172 History of Clinch County, Georgia

Hampton, Lemuel T., William R., and Quarterman B.
Morgan, and a daughter, who married Hon. John Williams.

Thomas C. Morgan, son of Elihu Morgan, Sr., married
Jane Moody, and their children were Mary, Parthenia,
George, Linnie, Granville, Sherod and Jonathan Morgan.
Thomas C. Morgan married a second time, Ellen Penning-
ton, and their children were Henry, Delia, Ellen, Linnie,
Thomas and Staten Morgan. Parthenia Morgan married
John C. Hargreaves. Her mother, Jane Moody, was a
daughter of Isaac Moody, and his wife, Sarah Carter.

Jonathan L. Morgan was bom in 1832, and as above
stated, was a son of Thomas Morgan. He married Susan
Hargreaves, and they had three children, viz. : A. H. Mor-
gan, Mrs. Frank C. Folks, Mrs. Linnie Taylor. The elder
Morgan died in Waycross, May 5th, 1907. His son, Abra-
ham H. Morgan, served one term as clerk of the Superior
Court of Clinch County.

George Morgan, son of Thomas C. Morgan, Sr., removed
to Inverness, Fla., whence he carried 2,000 head of cattle.
Sherod Morgan now lives in Hamilton County, Fla. Gran-
ville Morgan, another son, now lives several miles below
Homerville.

Other members of the Morgan family who have lived in
Clinch County, are: Charles S. Morgan, bom 1845, who
was a lawyer at Homerville a few years following the war;
Jacob Morgan, born 1842 ; and John T. Morgan, bom 1836.

The Morgan family is widely scattered throughout the
United States, and are all descendants of three brothers who
landed in this country about 1660. Dr. John Morgan, a
relative of Berrien Morgan, named above, established the
first medical college in America at Philadelphia. It is now
the medical department of the University of Pennsylvania.

THE LEE FAMILY.

Joshua Lee was probably the earliest member of the Lee
family to live in Clinch. He was a brother to Jesse Lee,

History of Clinch County, Georgia 173

who lived in this section and died here. Jo&hua Lee mar-
ried Martha Ford, a native of North Carolina, while he was
born in South Carolina. To them were bom several children,
among them being Zachariah Lee, who married Phoebe Reg-
ister; Nancy Lee, who married Tyre Mathis; Jemima, who
married John Mathis; and Sarah, who married Isaac D.
Hutto, and Elizabeth, who married James Patten. Joshua
Lee died about 1855, and is burfed at Prospect Church. He
removed to this county from where Milltown now is and
settled four miles north of where DuPont now is, about 1 847.

Zachariah Lee was born October 4th, 18 16, and married
Phoebe Register, daughter of Samuel Register, Sr. They had
a son. Perry M. Lee, who served one term as clerk of the
Superior Court of Clinch (Zounty, and is at present a county
commissioner of Clinch County. The elder Lee died May
23, 1884. 'He is buried at the North cemetery.

Nancy Lee, who married Tyre Mathis, was born in 1808.
They had several children, among whom was Martha, who
married James T. Touchstone, and Celie, who married
Greenberry Holt. The children of Martha and James T.
Touchston were Henry W. Touthston, William Touchston,
Frank Touchston, Mrs. Rosetta Drawdy, Mrs. D. A. Smith,
and Mrs. Annie Cornelius. Bettie, daughter of Mrs. Holt,
married Joseph P. Smith, and among their children are Wil-
liam and H. P. Smith, and Emma, who married J. T. Dame.

Jemima Lee, who married John Mathis, was born about
1 8 10, and they had several children, among them Ezekiel
Mathis.

Sarah Lee, who married Isaac D. Hutto, was born in 1820.
Mr. Hutto was for many years pastor of Prospect Church in
this county. They had no children, but had an adopted son,
Jackson N. Hutto.

Elizabeth Lee, who married James Patten, of Berrien
County, was born about 18 15. They had ten children, viz.:
William, Jethro, James, Jehu and Matthew Patten, Nancy,

J 74 History of Clinch County, Georgia

who married John F. Clements; Leta, who married Ivy
Register; Sallie, who married John Crosby; Mary, who mar-
ried John Clements, and Elizabeth, who married John J.
Drawdy. Mrs. Patten died about 1880.

Jesse Lee, brother to Joshua Lee, had several children,
among them John and Moses Lee, and a daughter who mar-
ried James O. Patten. Moses Lee lived in Berrien County,
where his descendants are numerous. John Lee married
Elinor Wetherington, and their children were: John Lee,
Jr., Elinor, who married James Chisholm ; Julia, who married
Levi Knight ; Moses, who married Amanda Clements ; Jesse,
who married Sallie Tomlinson ; James, who married Lavinia
Smith; William J. Lee, who married Rhoda, daughter of
John F. Clements and grand-daughter of Joshua Lee.

There was also another family of Lees in this county.
James J. Lee was born in 18 19. His wife, Jemima, was born
in 1 82 1. They had several children. James Lee was born in
1829, and his wife, Catherine, in 1833. They had seven
children. Some of these lived in and near the Okefinokee
Swamp. Henry Lee, bom 1835, ^^ ^^^ ^^ ^^^ oldest living
members of this branch.

CHAPTER XII.
County Officers of Clinch County. 1 850-191 6.

ORDINARIES.

•

PREVIOUS to 1852, the Inferior Court had jurisdic-
tion over estates, probates of wills, guardianships and
other matters which the Ordinary has jurisdiction over
at present, and the Inferior Court sat as a Court of Ordinary
for that purpose; but in 1850 an Act was passed, amended
in 1 85 1, creating the office of Ordinary in this State.

(The word "removed'* indicates removal from the county.)

The following have been ordinaries of Clinch County
since 1852:

Name Commissioned Term of Office

Guilford Lastinger Jan. 27, 1852 1852-1856

Richard H. Burkhalter April 8, 1856 1856-1858

John L. Morgan Jan. 29, 1858 1858-1864

Hampton Morgan (removed) __ Feb. 16, 1864 1864-1867

William W. Griffin Aug. 21, 1868 1868-1871

John L. Morgan Nov. 9, 1871 1871-1873

Moses Tomlinson Jan. 18, 1873 1873-1881

John L. Morgan Jan. 27, 188 1 1881-1885

Martin S. Corbitt Jan. 13, 1885 1885-1889

George Cornelius Jan. 7, 1889 1889-1901

William T. Howell Oct. 1900 1 901- 1905

John T. Dame Oct. 17, 1904 1905-1917

W. V. Musgrove 1916 1917-1921

CLERKS SUPERIOR COURT.

John C. Kirkland April 12, 1850 1850-1852

George W. Newbem Jan. 14, 1852 1852-1854

Archibald D. Laslie Jan. 10, 1854 1854-1856

David O'Quin April 8, 1856 1856-1868

176

History of Clinch County, Georgia

Name

Commissioned Term of Office

H. D. O'Quin Aug. 21,

James Tomlinson Feb. 7,

Edward T. Dukes Jan. 18,

Perry M. Lee Jan. 14,

Cornelius A. Smith (resigned) Jan. 17,

David O'Qiiin (appointed) Dec. 6,

Abraham Morgan Jan. 13,

Bryant R. Johnnson (resigned). Jan. 9,

William A. Ecord March 4,

Samuel W. Register (died) Jan. 6,

A. O. Register June 25,

Austin J. Gibbs Nov. 3,

TAX COLLECTORS.

Ezekiel J. Sirmans Apr. 12

Robert G. Dickerson Jan. 10

Moses Giddens May 17

Henry Joyce Jan. 10

Isaac D. Hutto Jan. 9

Charles Cowart Jan. 12

Jesse P. Prescott Jan. 13

Timothy Alderman Jan. 17

,William M. Austin Feb. 16

Samuel W. Register Jan. 22

Martin S. Corbitt Aug. 21

Madison M. Caswell Feb. 7

William J. Rives Jan. 9

Guilford A. Register Jan. 13

William GrifB.s Jan. 8

Moses Tomlinson Jan. 7

M. M. Monk (resigned) Oct. 14

David C. Sirmans Oct. 17

Lucius R. Register Nov. i

C. H. Dickerson Nov. 3

1868 ]

[868-1

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1871-1

1873 1

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1875 '

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1880 1

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1896 1

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873

875
877

880
881
883
884

893

908

909

921

852

853

854

855

857

858

859

864

866
868
871
883
885
887
889
897
904
907
909
921

History of Clinch County, Georgia

177

Term of Office
185O-1856

1856-1857
1857-1862
1862-1864
1 864-1 874
1875-1881
1881-I904
1 904- 1 905
I905.I92I

TAX RECEIVERS.

Name Commissioned

Benjamin Cornelius April 12, 1850

Jesse W. Carter April 8, 1856

Benjamin Cornelius Jan. 12, 1857

Timothy Alderman Jan. 23, 1862

Benjamin Cornelius (died) Feb. 16, 1864

William J. Rives Jan. 14,1875

John C. Jones (died) Jan. 13, 1881

B. E. Mattox June 9, 1904

J. B. Coon Oct. 17, 1904

COUNTY TREASURERS.

Prior to 1868', the clerk of the Inferior Court was treas-
urer of the county. In 19 15 the treasurer's office was abol-
ished and the county authorities authorized to select some
banking institution in the county to handle the county's
funds without charge, — to become effective January i, 19 17.

Name Commissioned Term of Office

868 1868

868 1868-1871

871 1871-1877

877 1877-1891

891 1891

891 1891-1893

893 1893

893 1893-1896

896 1 896-1 897

896 1897-1899

898 1 899-1903

902 1 903- 1 909

908 1909-1913

912 1913-1915

914 1915-1917

Riley Johnson (resigned) Aug. 21

Allen Smith (appointed) Nov. 28

Alfred Newbem Feb. 7

Henry C. Moore (died) Jan. 17

W. H. Gary (appointed) June 23

Sherod Smith (died) July 27

Lewis Smith Nov. 28

Andrew J. Caswell (died) Jan. 6

Chas. F. Hitch (appointed) Aug. 21

R. G. Dickerson (resigned) Sept. 12

George M. Dame (appointed). -Oct. 12

Perry A. Register Oct. 14

George M. Dame Oct. 19

John F. Hughes Oct. 8

T. F. M. Sweat Nov. 3

Randall Corbitt Oct. 19

W. H. Hunter Nov. i

178

History of Clinch County, Georgia

SHERIFFS.

Name

Commissioned

Charles Cowart April 12

Cornelius Joyce March 11

Thomas Mobley (resigned) Jan. 10

David O'Quin May 16

Shimuel Timmerman April 8

James Waters Jan. 13

Shimuel Timmerman Jan. 10

Jesse Smith Jan. 23

Shimuel Timmerman Feb. i6

Harrison Jones (left county) Jan. 22

William M. Austin Jan. 10

Joseph E. Bass Oct. 26

James M. Nelms Feb. 7

Robert N. Brady (killed) Jan. 18

David H. Johnson Jan. 14

John T. Courson Jan. 8

Jerry M. Jeffords Jan. 13

B. E. Mattox Jan. 8

Frank Dickerson Jan. 7

Bryant O'Steen Oct. 14

S. A. Sweat ____Oct. 10

Perry R. Lee Nov. 3

SURVEYORS.

D. J. Blackburn April 12,

Elijah Mattox April 12,

D. J. Blackburn Jan. 10,

Joseph B. Johnson Jan. 12,

Joseph J. Cohen Jan. 12,

Elias H.Tyler Jan. 13,

Jesse S. Sineath Jan. 10,

I. T. McLendon Feb. 16,

Jesse S. Sineath Jan. 22,

William Gaines Aug. 21,

850

851

854

854
856

858
861
862
864
866
867
868
871
873
875

879
881

887

889

896

900

908

850
850
852

854

857
858

861

864

866

868

Term of
850-

851-

854

854-
856-

858-

86l-

862-

864-

866-

867-

868-
871-

873-

875-
879-

881-

887-

889-

897-

901-

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850

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852-

854-

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858-

861-

864-

866-

868-

Office
851
854

856
858
861
862
864

866
867
868
871

873

875

879
881

887

889

897

901

909

921

1852

1854
1857

1858
1861
1864
1866
1868

1873

"SB

History of Clinch County, Georgia

179

Name

Commissioned Term of Office

Isaac T. McLendon Jan. 18,

George A. Dame Jan. 14,

Jackspn J. Taylor Jan. 17,

George M. Dame Jan. 13,

S. R. Kirton Jan. 9,

J. B. Coon Oct. 19,

F. F. Cornelius Oct. 17,

Thomas C. Conine Nov. i,

CORONERS.

Joseph L. Rogers April 12

John Mathis Jan. 16

John Q. Findley Jan. 13

John Mathis _-Jan. 10

Sherod Tomlinson Feb. 16

J. R. Dickerson Aug. 21

James M. Kight Feb. 7

John T. Courson Jan. 18

Daniel Dickerson Jan. 14

Benjamin O'Steen Jan. 17

Stephen D. Findley Jan. 13

Guilford A. Register Jan. 9

William Parker Jan. 13

D. F. McDuffie Jan. 8

Augustus M. Tomlinson Jan. 7

George D. Gibbs (died) Jan. 10

John B. Kirkland Jan. 6

Tarlton McMillan Oct. 14

W. R. Findley (removed) Oct. 17

C. W. Byrd (appointed) Dec. 10

G. R. Thigpen (removed) Oct. 19

B. F. Thomas Nov. i

John L. Cason

1873 1

[873-1

1875 1

[875-1

1877 ]

[877-1

I88I 1

[881-1

1895 1

[895-1

1898 ]

[899-1

1904 1

[905-1

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[9I5-I

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1858 ]

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[861-I

1864 ]

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1868 1

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[871-1

1873 1

[873-1

1875 1

[875-1

1877 1

[877-1

188I 1

[881-1

1883 ]

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1885 1

[885-1

1887 1

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1889 1

[889-1

1 891 ]

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1893 1

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1896 1

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[905-1

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I916 1

[917.1

875

877

881

895
899

905
915

921

851

858
861
864

868

871

873

875

877
881

883

885

887

889

891

893

897

905
912

913

917
921

i8o

History of Clinch County, Georgia

COUNTY SCHOOL SUPERINTENDENTS.

Previous to 1871 the control of school matters was vested
in the justices of the Inferior Court, the Ordinary and one
citizen appointed by the judge of the Superior Court, while
the clerk of the Inferior Court was ex-officio secretary of the
school board. This was amended in 1870, and later in 1872.

Name Commissioned

H. D. O'Quin June 3, 1871

George W. Newbem Jan. 16, 1882

Charlton H. Smith May 30, 1892

W. T. Dickerson

Flem C. Pame

M. A. Cornelius

Joseph O. Rogers

JUSTICES OF THE INFERIOR COURT.

This court, composed of five justices, exercised the powers
of the County Court, Court of Ordinary and Board of County
Commissioners. They were abolished in 1868.

Term of Ofl&ce
187I-1882
1882-1892
1892-1899
1899-191I
I9II-I914
I914-I917
I917-192I

David Johnson Apr. 12,

Isham F. Johnson Apr. 12,

Hiram Sears Apr. 12,

Manning Smith Apr. 12,

Francis H. McCall Feb. 16,

Manning Smith Jan. 17,

David Johnson Jan. 17,

Tyre Mathis Jan. 17,

Timothy Alderman Jan. 17,

Solomon Wilkes : Jan. 17,

William M. Nichols- Jan. 24,

Archibald Hodges Jan. 24,

John L. Morgan Jan. 24,

Robert F. White Jan. 24,

Duncan Giddens Jan. 24,

1850 1

[850-1

1850 1

[850-1

1850 ]

[850-1

1850 1

[850-1

1852 1

[852-1

1853 ^

[853-1

1853 1

[853-1

1853 1

[853-1

1853 1

[853-1

1853 1

[853-1

1854 1

[854-1

1854 ]

[854.1

1854 1

[854-1

1854 1

[854-1

1854 1

[854-1

853
853
853
853
853

854

854
854

854

855
858

857

856

857

History of Clinch County, Georgia

i8i

Name

Commissioned Term of Ofi&ce

Jacob Lightsey Jan. i6

John J. North Apr. 8

William M. Nichols Jan. 12

John J. North -Jan. 12

John L. Morgan Jan. 12

George W. Newbem Jan. 12

Manning Smith Jan. 12

Shimuel Timmerman Feb. 11

James Whitehurst Feb. 11

Cornelius Joyce Feb. 11

John S. Henderson Jan. 29

Jonathan Knight Jan. 10

John L. Morgan Jan. 10

David Johnson Jan. 10

Jacob Lightsey ,Jan. 10

Sherod Tomlinson Jan. 10

Joel Strickland Sept. 10

William M. Austin Sept. 10

Robert G% Dickerson Sept. 10

Thomas G. Ramsey Sept. 19

H. A. Mattox Mar. 26

Quarterman B. Statcn Jan. 23

R. B. Johnson Jan. 23

Charles Strickland Jan. 23

H. A. Mattox-- Jan. 23

John L. Morgan Jan. 23

.1855 )

[855-1

, 1856 1

[856-1

,1857 1

[857-1

,1857 1

[857-1

,1857 1

[857-1

,1857 1

[857-1

,1857 1

[857-1

, 1858 I

[858-1

, 1858 1

[858-1

, 1858 1

[858-1

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[858-1

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[861

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[861

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, 1862 ]

[862-1

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[864-1

, 1865 1

[865-1

, 1865 1

[865-1

, 1865 1

[865-1

,1865- 1

[865-1

,1865 1

[865-1

857
857

858
861
858
858
861
861
861
861
861

865

862

865
864
865
865

865

868
868
868
868
868

CLERKS INFERIOR COURT.

(Abolished 1868.)

John C. Kirkland Apr. 12, 1850

George W. Newbem Jan. 14, 1852

Archibald D. Laslie Jan. 10, 1854

David O'Quin Apr. 8, 1856

1850-1852
1852-1854
1854-1856
1856-1868

i82 History of Clinch County, Georgia

JUDGES COUNTY COURT.

This court was created in 1866, and the first judge served
until 1868, when he removed. It seems that there was no
judge appointed in his stead until 1882. The court was
abolished to take effect 1886. It was again established in
1 90 1, and has been in existence ever since. The judge of the
court is ex-officio clerk of the court under the present law.

Name Commissioned Term of Office

Ziba King (removed) May 10, 1866 1866-1868

Cornelius A. Smith Apr. 11, 1882 1882-1884

B. A. Whittington Dec. 16, 1884 1884-1886

S. C. Townsend (resigned) Nov. 2, 1901 1901-1904

George H. Cornelius -^ July 14, 1904 1904- 1905

Robert M. Crum Oct. 19, 1905 1905-1909

B. W. Cornelius Nov. i, 1909 1909-1913

S. L. Drawdy Oct. 28, 1913 1913-1917

SOLICITORS COUNTY COURT.

Lyman A. Sirmans May 10, 1866 1866-1868

Robert G. Dickerson Nov. 4, 1901 1901-1907

H. J. Dame Oct. 28, 1907 1907-1909

Sherod Burkhalter Oct. 30, 1909 1909-19 13

W. T. Dickerson July 18, 1913 1913-1917

COUNTY COMMISSIONERS.

The Board of Commissioners of Roads and Revenues in
and for Clinch County was created by Legislative Act in
1889, and repealed or abolished in 1894. Again in 1915,
the board was created. The following is a list of those who
have served as commissioners.

1 889-1 89 1 — ^W. H. Gary, Chairman; Martin S. Corbitt,
F. B. Sirmans, Isham Patterson, and John Knight; W. A.
Ecord, clerk.

1 891-1893 — ^W. H. Gary, Chairman; F. B. Sirmans, W.
B. N. Crews, Martin S. Corbitt and Isham Patterson; W.
A. Ecord, clerk.

History of Clinch County, Georgia

183

1 893-1 895 — ^J. R. Dickerson, Chairman; F. M. Hughes,
B. E. Mattox, F. M. Jackson and Isham Patterson; S. W.
Register, clerk.

19 15-19 1 7 — ^J. F. Barnhill, Chairman; Alex. K. Ses-
soms, William H. Mobley, William B. North and Perry
M. Lee; Folks Huxford, clerk.

For the term 1917-1921, John M. Smith has been elected
in the stead of Alex. K. Sessoms, and the other members
elected for a full term.

REPRESENTATIVES FROM CLINCH COUNTY.

James W. Staten

James W- Staten

Manning Smith

William S. Tomlinson

John Williams

William S. Tomlinson,

William S. Tomlinson

Jesse Smith

Guilford Lastinger

H. A. Mattox

Joseph Sirmans

J. R. G. Hamilton

Lewis Strickland

Lewis Strickland ■

J. L. Sweat

R. B. Johnson

John C. Humphreys

James P. Mattox (died)

R. B. Johnson

Lucius C. Mattox

R. B. Johnson:

James M. Smith I_

Robert G. Dickerson

D. C. Fender

1851-

1852

1853-

1854

1855-

1856

1857-

1858

1859-

[860

i86i-

1862

1863-

1864

1865-

1866

1868-

1870

1871-

1872

1873-

1874

1875-

1876

1877

1878-

1879

1880-

1881

1882-

1883

1884-

1885

1886-

1887

1888

1888-

1889

1890-

1 891

1892-

1893

1894-

1895

1896-

[897

1898-:

[899

184

History of Clinch County, Georgia

S. L. Drawdy 1900-1901

R. B.Johnson (died) 1902-1903

Augustus DuPont 1904

John F. Daugharty 1905-1906

S. C. Townscnd 1907-1908

S. L. Drawdy 1909-1910

B. A. Harper 1911-1912

A. H. Culpepper I9i'3-i9i4

R. G. Dickerson 1915-1916

A. H. Culpepper 1917-1918

, SENATORS FROM CLINCH COUNTY AND THE FIFTH

SENATORIAL DISTRICT.

Note: From 1845 ^^ 1852 senators were elected from dis-
tricts, but in 1852 this was changed back to the old way and
each county elected a senator. This remained so until i860.
Then Clinch County was embraced in the fifth senatorial
district.

Levi J. Knight

Benjamin Sirmans

William M. Nichols

James W. Staten

David J. Sirmans

Thomas Hilliard

P. B. Bedford

Newsom Corbitt

T. A. Corbitt

Mr. Kirkland

George W. Newbem _ .

William B. Folks

Cornelius A. Smith

William A. McDonald.

J. M. Wilcox

F. B. Sirmans

F. C. Folks

I85I-]

[852

1853-1

[854

1855-1

1856

1857-1

[858

1 859-]

[860

I86I-1

[862

1863-1

[864

1 865-1

[866

I868-I

[869

1869-1

[870

I87I-1

[874

1875-1

[877

1878-1

[879

1880-1

[881

I882-]

1883

1 884-]

[885

1886-1

[887

I888-I

[889

■J » 1W

History of Clinch County, Georgia 185

J. W. Boyd 1890-1891

F. B. Sirmans 1892-1893

Leon A. Wilson 1894-1895

Jeff Wilcox 1896-1897

Robert G. Dickerson 1898-1899

Lemuel Johnson 1900-1901

F. L. Sweat 1902-1904

F. B. Sirmans 1905-1906

George W. Deen 1907-1908

Calvin A. Ward 1909-1910

W. T. Dickerson 1911-1912

J. L. Sweat 1913-1914

Calvin A. Ward 1915-1916

R. G. Dickerson '. 1917-1918

BOARD OF TAX ASSESSORS.

This body was created by Legislative Act in 19 13. The
following gentlemen were appointed by the county authori-
ties to this position :

January i, 19 14 — Geo. M. Dame, Chairman, for six
years; Columbus C. Lee, for four years; William T. Howell,
for two years.

January ist, 1916 — S. R. Kirton, for six years, succeed-
ing W. T. Howell.

1 9 14-19 1 6 — Secretary of the Board: A. J. Gibbs.

JUSTICES OF THE PEACE, CLINCH COUNTY, 185O-I916.

586th or Mud Creek District.

Name Commissioned Term of Office

Hudson Tillery Feb. 10, 1829 1829-1833

James O. White Feb. 10, 1829 1829-1830

William Smith Nov. 9, 1830 1 830-1 833

Stephen Williams Apr. 11. 1833 1833-1837

William Smith Apr. 11, 1833 1833-1837

James O. White j. Oct. 4, 1837 1837-1841

David Garrison Oct. 4, 1837 1837-1841

i86

History of Clinch County, Georgia

Name

Commissioned

Joseph Rtcketson Jan. 14

John P. Wall Jan. 14

William Lastinger Jan. 24

Jesse Smith Jan. 24

Reubin Leggett Apr. 13

Hiram Sears Jan. 29

John Williams June 25

Jackson S. Williams Aug. 20

Newsom Corbitt Feb. 15

William G. Aikens Feb. 15

A. J. Lastinger Jan. 15

Isaac Burkhalter _: Jan. 15

Guilford Lastinger ; Jan. 22

Newsom Corbitt : Jan. 28

Berrien Pafford , Jan. 28

David H. Johnson Mar. 28

Newsom Corbitt Mar. 22

David H. Johnson Mar. 22

David H. Johnson May i

A. J. Whitehurst Feb. 5

Francis M. Jackson Jan. 20

William J. Lee Aprl. 27

Harris Sirmans Feb. 8

C. C. Bridges Jan. 22

C. F. Brack Jan. 26

Randall Brogdon Jan. 26

Joseph Powell Dec. 8

970th or Magnolia District.

David Register" Nov. 18, 1839

Cornelius Joyce Nov. 18, 1839

David Register Jan. 14, 1841

Benjamin Cornelius Jan. 14, 1841

Josiah Stewart Jan. 24, 1845

D. J. Blackburn Jan. 24, 1845

841
841
845
845
846

847
850

852

853

857

857
858

861

864

865

869

872

873

874

877
885

889

893
900

Term of
841-
841-
845.

845-
846-

847-
850-

852-

853-

857-

857*
858-

861-

864-

865-

869-

872-

873-

874-
877-
885-

889-

893-
901-

Office

845

845
846

847
850

852

853

857

857
858

861

865

864

865

869

872

873

874

877
885

889

893
901

917

1839-1841
1839-184I
1841-1845
184I-1845
1 845-1 846
1 845-1 847

History of Clinch County, Georgia

187

Name Commiss

Benjamin Cornelius Aug. 26

John C. Kirkland Feb. 26

Elliott Chancey Sept. 21

Jesse Smith Sept. 21

Rowan B. Johnson June 7

Aaron D. Dyals June 7

Henry E. Peacock May 11

Elias Williams May 11

Ezekiel J. Sirmans Mar. 7

Jesse Smith Mar. 7

Levi W. Carter Feb. 27

Abraham Strickland Sept. 27,

Jesse Smith Jan. 24

Elliott Chancey Mar. 7

Jess/ Smith Mar. 7

Joseph J. Cohen Nov. 27

Jesse Smith Feb. 26

William J. Brack Feb. 26

Thomas H. Womack Aug. 24

Ziba King Aug. 24

Allen Smith May 19

John L. Courson Mar. 20

Eli W. O'Quin Jan. 20

Eli J. Futch ^-Mar. 23

M. H. Hilliard Jan. 18

W. B. GrifBs Dec. 7

oned

846
847
850
850
851
851
852
852

853
853
854

854

855

857

859

859
860

860

864

866

873
889

897
904

Term of
846-

847-
850-

850-

851-

851-
852-
852-

853-
853-
854-
854-
855-
857-

757-

857-
859-

859-

860-

864-

866-

873-
889-

897-

904-

Office
850
850
851
851
852
852

853

853
854

854

855

857

857
859

859

860

864

866
867

873
885

897
905

917

719th District.
(Formerly in Clinch County, but now in Echols.)

Absalom E. Thomas Oct. 20, 1830 1830-1832

Joseph Rodgers Oct. 20, 1830 1830-1832

William B. North Sept. 12, 1832 1832-1833

William McLelland Sept. 12, 1832 1832-1833

William B. North Feb. 12, 1833 1833-1835

John J. North Feb. 12, 1833 1833-1836

i88

History of Clinch County, Georgia

Name

Commissioned

Amos Emanuel Dec. 3, 1835

Seaborn Lastinger Dec. 3, 1835

James Oglesby June 14, 1837

Stephen Tucker June 14, 1837

C. B. Mims Mar. 18, 1839

Jackson A. Lloyd Jan. 27, 1840

John Burnett Jan. 25, 1843

John J. North Jan. 25, 1843

James C. Green Jan. 20, 1846

Joseph L. Crews Jan. 20, 1846

Isham F. Johnson Mar. 10, 1848

Joseph L. Crews-- Mar. 10, 1848

James North Jan. 15, 1850

Isham F. Johnson Jan. 31, 1849

John Burnett Oct. 15, 1850

James North Oct. 15, 1850

James North Mar. i, 1852

Isham F. Johnson Mar. i, 1852

1 05 2d or Stockton District

Jesse W. Carter Aug. 8, 1850

Guilford Lastinger Aug. 8, 1850

Sherod Tomlinson May 11, 1852

Shimuel Timmerman May 11, 1852

Richard H. Burkhalter Jan. 10, 1853

Jesse W. Carter Aug. 9, 1855

Cornelius B. Lightsey Aug. 8, 1855

Thomas W. Griffin Jan. 15, 1857

Cornelius B. Lightsey Jan. 15, 1857

William W. Smith May 17, 1861

W. W. Peyton May 17, 1861

William W. Smith —Jan. 28, 1865

Barzilla Staten Jan. 28, 1865

David D. Mahon Jan. 24, 1867

David D. Mahon Sept. 22, 1869

Term of Office

1835-1837

1835-1837
1837-1839

1 837-1 840

1839-1843
1 840 1 843

1 843-1 846

1 846-1 848

1 848- 1 849

1848-1850

1850-1850

1 849-1 850

1850-1852

185O-1852

1852-1856

1850.
1850-
1852-
1852-

1853-
1855-

1855-

1857-
1857-

1861.

1861-

1865-

1865.

1867-

1869-

852
852

853
853

85i(

857

857
861

861

865

^67

869

872

History of Clinch County, Georgia

189

Name

Commissioned

G. G. Foreman Feb. 15,

G. G. Foreman Jan. 20,

J. R. G. Hamilton Feb. 9,

W. S. Phillips Jan. 18,

Moses Tomlinson Jan. 23,

James R. Allen (died) Jan. 22,

Isaac W. Allen Dec. 19,

106 1st or Moore's Mill Dis

Archibald Hodges June 7,

George W. Newbern-_:^ June 7

Robert F. White Feb. 5

Jesse Dean Mar. 20,

Robert F. White Jan. 10,

George Cornelius _-Jan. 10,

William Johnson Nov. 26,

John C. Kirkland Mar. 16,

Charles A. GrifBs Mar. 28

John C. Kirkland Jan. 15

Charles A. Griffis--i Jan. 15

John C. Kirkland Jan. 16,

Charles A. GrifBs Jan. 16,

John C. Kirkland Jan. 22,

Charles A. GrifBs Mar. 22.

William T. Bennett May

William GrifBs Mar. 15

K. C. Cowart -_ Feb. 9,

James R. Dickerson Mar.

Jacob Minshew Jan. 22,

George W. Delk Jan. 18

Irwin Corbitt Jan. 26,

W. J. Corbitt (resigned) Jan. 8

F. M. Cowart Feb. 10,

F. M. Cowart (resigned) Dec. 21

A. J. Lockliear Mar. 19,

872

873
877

879
883

885

908

rict.

,1851 1

[85I-I

,1851 1

[85I-I

, 1852 ]

[852-1

, 1852 ]

[852-1

,1853 1

853-1

. 1853 '

[853-1

. 1853 1

[853-1

, 1854 1

[854-1

,1856 ]

[856-1

,1857 1

[857-1

,1857 1

[857-1

,1861 ]

[86I-I

, I86I 1

[86I-I

, 1865 ]

[865-1

, 1865 1

[865-1

, 1869 1

[869-1

,1875 1

[875-1

,1877 1

[877-1

, 1879 1

[879-1

, 1885 1

[885-1

, 1889 1

[889-1

, 1893 1

[893-1

, 1897 1

c 897-1

1, I9I2 ]

[912-1

, I9I2 1

[913-1

f, I9I6

1916-1

Term of Office
1872-1873
1873-1877
1877-1879
1879-1883
1883-1885
1885-I909
I909-I917

852
852

853

854
856

857

857
861

861

865

869

875
877

879
885

889

893

897
910

913
914

917

190 History of Clinch County, Georgia

1 141st or Wiregrass District.

Name Commissioned

James North Aug. 11, 1856

Richard A. Bennett Aug. 11, 1856

Richard A. Bennett Jan. 15, 1857

Tarlton McMillan Mar. i, 1858

George Conley (or Cauley) Mar. i, 1858

James L. Bennett Jan. 28, 1861

James Waters Jan. 28, 1861

James North Aug. 20, 1861

John R. Harris Aug. 20, 1861

Martin Z. Morgan May 4, 1864

D. M. Riberon May i, 1869

Ivy Davis Jan. 22, 1873

George W. Thornton Feb. 9, 1877

T. F. M. Sweat Jan. 22, 1885

D. M. Riberon Jan. 26, 1893

Joel G. Griffis Jan. 24, 1899

W. A. Taylor Dec. 18, 1908

121 9th or Fargo District.

Richard A. Bennett.,. Oct. 13, i860

Gideon Yelvington Jan. 16, 1861

Richard A. Bennett Jan. 16, 1861

John Daugharty Nov. 3, 1862

George W. Waldron Mar. 20, 1866

William C. Bennett Mar. 20, 1866

Guilford C. Register Dec. 8, 1900

W. T. Drew (resigned)- Jan. 7, 1909

A. L. Sirmans Sept. 14, 1909

1224th or Homerville District.

Lucius C. Mattox Mar. 20, 1865

Moses Smith Mar. 20, 1865

Allen Smith 1 Jan. 24, 1867

J. L. Sweat Jan. 24, 1867

Term of Office

856-
856-
857-
858-
858-
861-
861-
861-
861-
864-
869-

873-
877-

885-

893-

899-
909-

858

857
858

861

865

864

869

873

877
885

889

897

903
917

1860-
1861-
1861-
1862-
1866-
1866-
I9OI-
1909-
1909-

1861
1862
1866
1866
1869
1869
1905
1909
1917

1865-1867
1865-1867
I 867-1 869-
1 867-1 869

History of Clinch County, Georgia

Name Commissioned

John L. Morgan, Jr., (res.) May i, 1869

Erie Edwards Aug. 10, 1869

John H. Mattox Jan. 21, 1873

Samuel Narger Feb. 9, 1877

A. B. Findley Mar. 25, 1880

Charlton H. Smith Jan. 24, 1881

John H. Mattox (died) Jan. 22, 1885

R. M. Crum (resigned) Jan. 9, 1897

Charlton H. Smith Dec. 19, 1908

1280th or DuPont District.

John T. Courson Sept. 12, 1876

Thomas G. Jenkins Mar. 22, 1877

John A. Mikell Jan. 24, 1881

John T. Courson (res.) Jan. 18, 1889

D. H. Johnson Feb. 14, 1891

Joseph Jones ^-Jan. 8, 1897

L. L. DuPont Dec. 8, 1900

C. C. Lee (resigned) Dec. 7, 1904

E. B. Register (resigned) Nov. 11, 1905

C. M. McLamb (resigned) Nov. 14, 1906

B. F. Hughes Jan. 15, 1915

1389 or Argyle District.

James R. Dickerson Jan. 22, 1885

Peter Williams (resigned) Aug. 20, 1885

James R. Dickerson Apr. 8, 1887

J. R. Dickerson (resigned) Jan. 18, 1889

W. J. Strickland Apr. i, 1891

W. J. Strickland Jan. 26, 1893

T. P. Jordan Jan. 12, 1895

B. A. Harper (resigned) Jan. 12, 1899

E. L. Tootle Mar. 25, 1916

1365th or Withers District.

S. W. Register Jan. 22, 1885

S. W. Register (resigned) Mar. 23, 1889

Term of
869-
869-

873-
877-

880-

881-

885-

897-

909-

876-
877-
881-
889-
891-
897-
901-
905-
905-
906-
915-

885-
885-
887-
889-
891-

893-
895-

899-

916-

885-
889-

191

Office
869

873

877
880

881

885

896

90s

917

877
881

889

891

897
901

905

906

917

885
887
889
891

893
895

899
910

917

889
891

192

History of Clinch County, Georgia

NOTARIES PUBLIC AND EX-OFFICIO JUSTICES OF THE PEACE

CLINCH COUNTY.

Name

586th District.

Commissioned

Term of Office

C. W. Corbitt Jan. 18,

Noah H. Griffin Aug. 19,

Lewis Holtzendorf Aug. i,

Lewis Strickland (resigned) July 22,

James E. Sharpe Jan. 15,

A. J. Whitehurst Jan. 24,

F. B. Sirmans Oct. 15,

D. J. Smith Jan. 31,

Thomas Conine Mar. 16,

Harris Sirmans (did not Q.) Mar. 27,

D. J. Smith Apr. 20,

F. M. Anderson Nov. 2,

J. J. Grooms Oct. 26,

F. M. Anderson Apr. 22,

970th District.

Cornelius A. Smith Mar. 4,

Bryant W. Douglas Feb. 16,

Wm. C. Joyce (resigned) Feb. 13,

David O'Quin (died) Jan. 15,

E. W. O'Quin Jan. 31,

H. A. O'Quin Apr. 18,

P. M. Lee Apr. 14,

B. S. Register Apr. 22,

William Barlow June 7,

H. T. Hughes May 20,

Moses Melton Apr. 4,

1 05 2d District.

Thomas D. Hawkins Aug. i,

John C. Humphreys (res.) Mar. 19,

James A. Ellis Apr. 3,

869
870
872
872
876

877
880

88s

889

893
894
896
900
902

869
872

87s
876

885

898

900

902

906

911

913

872
880
884

869-
870.
872-
872-
876.

877-
880-

885.

889-

893
894-

896-

900-

902-

1869-
1872.
1875.
1876.
1885-
1898-
1900-
1902-
1906-
1911-

1913-

1872-
1880-
1884-

870
872
876
872

877
880

885

889

893

896
900
902
918

872

875
876

884

898

900

902

906

911

912

917

880
884
889

History of Clinch County, Georgia

Name Commissioned

R. S. Holtzendorf Mar. i6, 1889

J. J. Taylor Oct. 17, 1892

E. R. Rhoden Nov. 2, 1896

R. L. Rives Apr. 18, 1898

J. D. Sellars Nov. 18, 1898

J- Floyd Fender Oct. 27, 1902

E. J. Futch June 7, 1906

J. D. Sellars (removed) Aug. 9, 19 10

J. Floyd Fender Nov. 7/1913

R. J. Bennett Apr. 15, 1916

1 06 1 St District.

James R. Dickerson Aug. i, 1872

Ephriam McLendon Jan. 26, 1875

Elisha Moore Apr. 8, 1887

Tharp Roberts Apr. 22, 1896

J. Walter James Apr. 22, 1900

Tharp Roberts Apr. 22, 1902

J. Walter James June 7, 1906

Irwin Corbitt Mar. 30, 1915

1141st District.

Thomas F. Morgan Mar. 4, 1869

John N. Brady Aug. 19, 1870

Isham Patterson Aug. i, 1872

Emory Manor Jan. 24, 1877

T. F. M. Sweat Oct. 15, 1880

D. M. Riberon (did not Q.) Jan. 31, 1885

Joel G. Griffis Mar. 13, 1886

T. F. M. Sweat Mar. 25, 1889

Ivy Davis Apr. 17, 1891

A. B. Griffis Apr. 17, 1895

William B. North --Apr. 29, 1905

A. B. Griffis May, 12, 1911

193

Tenn of Office
1889-1892
1892-1896
1896-1898
1898-1898
1898-1902
1902-1906
1906-191O
191O-1913
1913-1916
1916-I920

1872-1875
1875-1887
1887-1896
1 896-1900
1 900- 1 902
1902-I906
1906-19 15
1915-1919

869-
870-
872-

877-
880-

885

886-
889.
891-

895-
905-

911.

1870
1872
1877
1880
1885

1889
1891

1895
1905

1910
1919

T 94 History of Clinch County, Georgia

1 2 1 9th District.

Name Commissioned

A. N. Hagins Mar. 4, 1869

James L. Crews Aug. i, 1872

John A. Johnson Apr. 22, 1878

S. A. Swearingen July 10, 1885

J. L. Swearingen Apr. 8, 1887

Peter A. Young (died) Mar. 17, 1891

W. N. Gibson Apr. 18, 1899

Peter A. Young, Jr Oct. 28, 1903

1224th District.

Robert G. Dickerson Jan. 16, 1869

John C. Kirkland (died) Sept. 10, 1872

Charlton H. Smith (resigned) -Dec. 5, 1905

B. E. Mattox (did not serve). -Dec. 3, 19 10

C. M. Kimrey Mar. 30, 1915

1280th District.

Tarlton McMillan Oct. 22, 1868

David J. Sirmans Aug. 28, 1876

Z. T. Darby (resigned) Oct. i, 1880

John A. Whittington Mar. 14, 1882

Willis B. Gibbs (died) July 2, 1885

Thomas D. Colly (resigned) Apr. 9, 1892

W. F. Miley Apr. 20, 1894

W. J. Tomlinson Apr. 18, 1898

D. H. Johnson (died) Apr. 22, 1902

J. H. P. Johnson (resigned) Apr. 18, 1903

Lyman A. Sirmans Apr. 29, 1905

J. A. Mobley Nov. 25, 1907

1365th District.

J. J. Taylor May, 15, 1885

Martin A. Taylor (removed)- -Oct. 13, 1893
A. O. Register (removed) Oct. 26, 1900

Term of Office
869-1872
872-1878
878-1885
885-1887
887-1891
891-1899
899-1903
903.1919

869.1872

872.1904

905.1909

910

915.1919

868.1876
876-1880
886-1882
882-1885
885-1892
892-1894
894-1898
898-1902
902.1903
903-1905
905.1907
907-1918

885-1893
893-1900
900-1902

History of Clinch County, Georgia 195

Name Commissioned Term of Office

J. R. Allen, Jr. (resigned) Apr. 22, 1902 1902-1905

John H. McLain (resigned) Apr. 29, 1905 1905-1908

E. C. Dedgc Nov. 11, 1908 1908-1910

J. R. Allen, Jr Aug. 9, 1910 1910-1918

1 3^ 9th District.

James M. Kight July 2, 1885 1885-1898

J. B. Kirkland (resigned) July 22, 1898 1898-1902

J. R. Dickerson ^^-Apr. 22, 1902 1902-1915

W. J. Patterson (did not Q.)__Mar. 30, 1915 1915-1915

W. H. James Nov. i, 1915 1915-1919

JUSTICES OF THE PEACE OF WARE, LOWNDES AND APPLING

COUNTIES PRIOR TO 185O.

The following information is given relative to justices of
Ware County and of Appling and Lowndes Counties, as it
gives the names of persons who became identified with Clinch
County when it was created.

45 1 st District — Commissioned

D. J. Blackburn Mar. 8, 1830

D. J. Blackblum Feb. 12, 1833

Thomas Newbern Apr. 3, 1833

Wm. G. Henderson July 2, 1834

John Inman, Sr Jan. 20, 1837

Wm. S. Bennett Jan. 20, 1837

Samuel G. Norman June 25, 1838

Samuel G. Norman Jan. 14, 1841

Samuel G. Norman Apr. 13,1846

Thos. I. Henderson Nov. 28, 1851

534th District —

Jacob Lightsey Mar. 9, 1840

Elias F. Stewart- June 11, 1845

R. G. Dickerson June 11, 1845

1 96 History of Clinch County, Georgia

LOWNDES COUNTY.

664th District —

Levi J. Knight Jan. 20, 1829

Abner Sirmans Jan. 20, 1829

John Mathis, Jr Jan. 23, 1833

Levi J. Knight Oct. 15, 1838

Josiah Sirmans Oct. 15, 1838

Levi J. Knight Jan. 24, 1845

William Patten Jan. 24, 1845

658th District —

David Mathis Jan. 20, 1829

William Lastinger Nov. 20, 1838

Wm. C. Newbem Jan. 24, 1845

66 1st District —

Benj. Cornelius Jan. 23, 1833

Edmund Mathis Nov. 20, 1838

Jesse W. Carter Nov. 3, 1841

Jesse W. Carter Dec. 14, 1846

APPLING COUNTY.

583d District —

John Bennett Mar, 17, 1837

John Bennett Apr. 6, 1842

Elihu Morgan Mar. 12, 1838

John L. Morgan Jan. 24, 1845

George Eason Jan. 20, 1833

Elihu Morgan Jan. 20, 1833

443 d District —

Silas O'Quin Jan. 14, 1841

CONSTABLES.

This list, as stated before, does not reach further back than
1868. Each district is entitled to two constables, one for the

History of Clinch County, Georgia

197

justice of the peace and one for notary public. They are
elected by the people, every two years, but in the absence of
any election, the justices of the peace may appoint one for
the unexpired term. Many of these named below were ap-
pointed. The dates given indicate when they qualified.
This list is not complete on account of records.

I22^th District —

Erie Edwards Jan. 4

Ervin Johnson Jan. 23

Pearson H. Robinson (rem. from office) -Apr. 5

C. W. Boatright Dec. 31

John J. Smith Jan. 2

Abraham E. Smith Feb. i

Archibald Bass Mar. 30

J. C. Kirkland June 8

Ervin Johnson Jan. 14

George L. Newbern --- Sept. i

J. R. Dickerson Jan. 11

Sherod Edwards May 18

J. F. Smith Feb. 26

John F. Smith Jan. 22

John A. Whittington Feb. 19

Bankston E. Mattox Feb. 23

Eason Smith ^May 10

Henry Jurnigan March 5

A. B. Findley Nov. 26

B. A. Whittington Jan. 6

Eason Smith - Jan. 19

L. J. Sirmans June 22

L. W. Mattox July 26

Moses Thornton Nov. 7

Thomas Singleterry Mar. 25

Thomas Singleterry Jan. 8

L. W. Mattox May 5

John Singleterry Jan. 26

869
869
869
870

871
872

872

873

875

875
876

877

877
877

877
&78

878

879
880

881

882

883

884

88s

198 History of Clinch County, Georgia

J. S. Mattox Jan. 4,

L. W. Mattox Dec. 7,

K. C. Smith Jan. 6,

C. H. Smith Jan. 6,

C. H. Smith Jan. 24,

Samuel R. Smith Jan. 3,

John H. Mattox, Jr. Jan. 5,

S. D. Findley Jan. 9,

W. S. Mattox Jan. 9,

J. G. Kirkland Jan. 22,

D. E. Kirkland Jan. 4,

S, A. Sweat Jan. 11,

E. W. O'Quin Jan. 15,

A. B. DuBose July 23,

J. D. Mattox Dec. 26,

K. C. Smith Jan. 7,

J. D. Mattox Jan. 3,

C. C. Smith Jan. 10,

C. W. Byrd Dec. 18,

Folks Huxford Jan. 25,

T. T. Peagler Oct. 9,

886
886
887
887
889
891
891

f893

893

894

895

897
897

900

901

905

908

912

915
915

586th District —

Charlton H. Smith Aug. 6, 1869

Cornelius Dawson Jan. 4, 1893

D. J. Smith Aug. 17, 1874

Sherod Burkhalter Feb. 21, 1881

D. J. Smith Nov. 30, 1881

A. W. Bridges Jan. 20, 1885

M. L. Corbitt May 28, 1888

F. M. Anderson Jan. 23, 1889

D. J. Smith May 31, 1890

C. S. Vining Aug. 16, 1897

A. W. Downing Feb. , 1900

C. S. Vining Sept. 2, 1907

A. W. Downing Oct. 29, 1912

History of Clinch County, Georgia

199

D. R. Fender Jan. 28,

A. W. Downing Aug. 14,

J. R. Browning Feb. 17,

D. B. Browning Apr. i,

970th District —

E. W. O'Quin Sept. 6,

S. D. Findley Jan. 6,

M. C. Futch Feb. 19,

E. W. O'Quin Dec. 23,

Moses A. Thornton -June 24,

B. R. Futch Jan. 4,

M. H. Milliard June 17,

P. A. Register Oct. 30,

James B. Dedge Sept. 27,

Harris Tomlinson Jan. 5,

G. W. Thompson Feb. 27,

M. H. Hilliard 1 Feb. 6,

Harris Tomlinson Feb. 9,

B. T. Register Mar. 11,

P. W. Griffis Feb. 10,

I. W. Baldree July 22,

G. B. Barlow June i,

S. B. Griffis Mar. 20,

913

913
914

916

869

873
876

882

886

889

890

892

893

897

899
900

903
905

911

1 05 2d District —

D. C. Lancaster June 20, 1870

John L. Courson Jan. 4, 1873

S. M. Bennett Jan. 15 ,1873

John L. Courson 1873

Julian L. Clark Oct. 20, 1874

J. T. Whilden June 2, 1875

James A. Mathis Feb. i, 1879

C. S. Touchston . Sept. 29, 1883

A. H. Timmerman Jan. 16, 1893

Paul Pigue Feb. 13, 1893

200

History of Clinch County, Georgia

E. S. Knight Feb. 20, 1895

W. M. Zcigler Jan. 11, 1897

A. J. Jackson Mar. 22, 1897

Lewis Dampier Mar. , 1899

Lewis Dampier Mar. 19, 1901

A. W. Downing Feb.

H. B. Phillips

L W. Baldree Jan.

L W. Baldree Oct.

N. B. Altman June

J. B. Amerson Feb.

1 06 1 St District —

12, 1903

1903

4, 1909

i3» 1913
6, 1914

6, 1915

Peter Jeffords March 4,

George W. Delk June 5,

J. M. Jeffords Jan. _-,

Ashford Yeomans Apr. 28,

Emanuel Smith Mar. 8,

Jesse Hall Jan. 5,

J. S. Delk Oct. II,

J. S. Delk Jan. 11,

Jesse Hall Oct. 3,

Manning Cowart Nov. 4,

K. C. Starling Aug. 16,

F. M. Dawsom Apr. 16,

Waver Roberts May 24,

Waver Roberts Mar. 8,

K. J. Giddens Feb. 14,

Frank Higgs

869
869

873

877
881

889

891

893

89s
895

897
902
899
901
909

915

1141st District —

John H. Miller June 26, 1869

S. J. C. Blount Feb. 15, 1871

J. V. Chancey Feb. 25, 1886

M. C. Futch Oct. 23, 1895

C. H. Hilliard June 30, 1906

History of Clinch County, Georgia 201

J. M. Futch

W. W. WiUoughby „

1219th District —

Robert F. Young Dec. 16,

Isaac Baldree Dec. 16,

Isaac R. Baldree Jan. 16,

Isaac W. Baldree Apr. 12,

John M. Young Jan. 18,

William Baldree ^ Oct. 19,

G. C. Register Jan. 2,

R. M. Harrington

J. I. Evans^

1280th District —

Willis B. Gibbs . Feb. 8,

John A. Whittington

Ezekiel Mathis Sept. 22,

James L. HoUoway

S. M. Bennett : June 24,

J. H. W. Livingston June 7,

Joseph P. Smith Jan. 20,

J. H. W. Livingston Jan. 7,

Joseph Jones Feb. 26,

W. R. Brack Feb. 2,

Alonzo Joyce May 25,

W. D. Blitch Jan. 20,

W. R. Brack Aug. 5,

James T. Johnson Jan. 8,

Melvin Harris Jan. 7,

C. H. North Jan. II,

C. H. North Apr. 21,

D, D. Fiveash Dec. 31,

W H. Dame Dec. 31,

C. H. North Sept. 28,

C. H. North Dec. 10,

William E. Smith Mar. 13,

90s
910

892
892

893
894
896
896
900
914

915

877

879

879
880

881

882

883

886

887

891

892.

893

895

897

899
900

900

901

908

913

202

History of Clinch County, Georgia

1365th District —

J. S. Bennett June 3. 1885

W. R. Keen Mar. 6, 1885

S. M. Bennett Jan. 30, 1895

J. J. Bennett 1916

1389th District —

Hiram Danforth Jan. 23,

W. R. Harben June 7,

R. H. Dickerson June 7,

John B. Kirkland May 13,

R. H. Dickerson June 7,

John B. Kirkland Sept. i,

John J. Dickerson Feb. 2,

B. A. Harper 1 June 3,

J. J. Dickerson Feb. 2,

J. J. Dickerson Jan. 19,

James W. James Dec. 24,

Seward S. Griffis Dec. 24,

Martin Corbitt Mar. 15,

885

888

8^8

887 '

889

892

893

895

899
908

908

916

CHAPTER XIII.

A List of Ware and Lowndes County Officers Until the Cre-
ation of Clinch County. — ^A list of Appling County Of-
ficers, 1820-1826. — ^Jury Commissioners, 1869-1916. —
County Registrars, 1895-19 16. — Notaries Public. — Road
Commissioners, 1869-19 13. — Foremen of Grand Juries,
1 867-1916. — Sundry Other Officers.

Sheriffs of Ware County, 1 826-1 850 — Commissioned

William G. Henderson Feb. 11, 1826

William B. Hooker Feb. 11, 1828

Allen O'Steen Apr. 5, 1830

John Newbern Jan. 23, 1832

Thomas I. Henderson March i, 1834

Miles J. Guest 1 Jan. 28, 1836

Richard Bourn Jan. 26, 1838

David J. Miller Jan. 20, 1840

Richard Bourn Jan. 20, 1842

Miles J. Guest Jan. 16, 1844

William Tomblin (resigned) Jan. 26, 1846

Daniel Lott Feb. 8, 1847

Burrell Sweat Jan. 2!, 1848

Clerks of Superior Court, Ware County, 1 826-1 850 —

Joseph Bryan Feb. 11, 1826

Thomas Hilliard Feb. 11, 1828

Thomas Hilliard - April 5, 1830

David J. Miller Jan. 23, 1832

Elijah Mattox Mar. i, 1834

John S. Henderson Jan. 28, 1836

David J. Miller_ „Jan. 26, ^838

Geo. B. Williamson Jan. 20, 1840

Thomas Hilliard Jan. 20, 1842

Thomas Hilliard Jan. 16, 1844

204

History of Clinch County, Georgia

William A. McDonald Jan. 26, 1846

Geo. B. Williamson Jan. 29, 1847

Geo. B. Williamson Jan. 22, 1848

Surveyors of Ware County, 1 826-1 850—

Zachariah Davis Feb. 11, 1826

Thomas Ncwbem Feb. 11, 1828

John 0*Steen Apr. 5, 1830

William Thomas Jan. 23, 1832

William VanZant Mar. i, 1834

D. J. Blackburn Jan. 28, 1836

D. J. Blackburn Jan. 26, 1838

Elijah Mattox Jan. 16, 1844

Nathan Brewton Jan. 26, 1846

Elijah Mattox Jan. 22, 1848

Coroners of Ware County, 1 826-1 850—

Joshua Sharp Feb. 11, 1826

Elisha Green Feb. 11, 1828

Wilkins Fulwood Apr. 5, 1830

John Beasley Jan. 23, 1832

Wilkins Fulwood Mar. i, 1834

Wilkins Fulwood Jan. 28, 1836

Wilkins Fulwood Jan. 26, 1838

Nathan Sweat Jan. 20, 1842

John Jourdan Jan. 16, 1844

Wilkins Fulwood Jan. 26, 1846

Justices of Inferior Court, Ware County —

Note. — Only a few are given that are of particular in-
terest to Clinch County.

First Justices:

William Smith Mar. 2, 1825

Soloman Hall Mar. 2, 1825

John L. Stewart, Jr Mar. 2, 1825

Philemon Bryan Mar. 2, 1825

Absalom Thomas Mar. 2, 1825

History of Clinch County, Georgia 205

Others :

Thomas Newbern Apr. 28, 1830

James Fulwood Feb. 12, 1833

Thomas HilHard Feb. 12, 1833

John S. Henderson Mar. 10, 1835

Thomas Hilliard Jan. 17, 1837

Oliver Waldron Jan. 17, 1837

Manning Smith Mar. 19, 1845

James Inman Oct. 29, 1846

Tyre Mathis Jan. 15, 1849

Wm. A. McDonald Jan. 15, 1849

Senators and Representatives from Ware County,
1825-1850 —

Senators Session Representatives Session

Philemon Bryan 1825-1826 John L. Stewart 1825-1827

Joseph Dyall 182 6- 1827 John J. H. Davis 1 827-1 830

James Fulwood 1 827-1 835 Thomas Hilliard 1 830-1 840
Randal McDonald 1835-36 Josiah Stewart 1 840-1 841

James Fulwood 1 836-1 839 Thomas Hilliard 1 841-1842

Elijah Mattox 1 839-1 840 Wm. A. McDonald 1842-43

James Strickland 1 840-1 841 John S.Henderson 18 43- 18 45

James Fulwood 1 841-1843 Thomas Hilliard 1845- 1847

Jacob Lightsey 1843-1845 Wm. A. McDonald 1847-50

Note. — Each county was entitled to a State senator until
1845. After this it was changed to senatorial districts, as it
is now. In 1851 it was changed back and remained as of old
until 1 86 1. This will fully appear by reference to the list of
senators from Clinch County and the fifth district.

Sheriffs of Lowndes County, 1826-18 50 —

William Hancock May 29, 1826

Malachi Monk Jan. 29, 1828

William Hancock _> Jan. 20, 1830

Henry Blair Jan. 18, 1832

Edward M. Henderson April 4, 1834

2o6 History of Clinch County, Georgia

Martin Shaw, Jr Jan. 25, 1836

William C. Ncwbem Jan. 15, 1838

James S. Burnett May 7, 1838

James S. Burnett Jan. 20, 1840

Morgan G. Swain Jan. 20, 1842

Cyprian Brinson Jan. 16, 1844

Thomas B. Griflin Jan. 13, 1846

Richard Allen Jan. 22, 1848

Clerks Superior Court, Lowndes County, 1826-18 50 —

Henry Blair May 29, 1826

William Smith Jan. 29, 1828 Until 1842

William T. Johnson Jan. 20, 1842

Duncan Smith Jan. 16, 1844 Until 1850

Surveyors of Lowndes County, 1 826-1 850 —

Samuel M. Clyatt May 29, 1826 Until 1842

Jeremiah Wilson Jan. 20, 1842 Until 1850

Coroners of Lowndes County, 1 826-1 850—

Malachi Monk May 29, 1826 Untrl 1832

James Hightower Jan. 18, 1832

John Hill Apr. 4, 1834 Until 1839

A. Vann Jan. 28, 1839

Daniel Humphrey Jan. 20, 1842

Daniel Humphrey Jan. 16, 1844

Williarp McCardell Jan. 13, 1846

William McCardell Jan. 22, 1848

Senators and Representatives from Lowndes County,
1826-1850 —

Senators Session Senators Session

William A. Knight 1 826-1 827 Levi J. Knight 1834-1835

William Blair 1827-1831 John Pike 1835-1837

Randall Folsom 1831-1832 Levi J. Knight 1837-1841

Levi J. Knight 1832-1833 Samuel M. Clyatt 1841-1845

Hamilton W. Sharpe 1833-34 ^

History of Clinch County, Georgia 207

Representatives Session Representatives Session
Jonathan Knight 1 826-1 827 Israel F. Waldhour and
Jesse Carter 1827-1828 Benjamin Sirmans 1840-41

Benjamin Sirmans 1 828-1 830 George Carter and
John Blackshear 1830- 1833 John W. Spain 1 841-1843
Henry Blair 1833- 1834 George Carter and

John Blackshear 1 834-1 837 William Jones 1 843-1845
Joshua Kemp 1 837-1 838 James McMuUen 1 845-1 847
Archibald Graham and Cyprian Brinson 1 847-1 849

Benjamin Sirmans 1838-40 George Carter 1 849-1 850

Sheriffs of Appling County, 1 820-1 826 —

William Carter Oct. 6, 1820

Edmund P. Wester Jan. 16, 1822

Joseph G. Jenkins Feb. 17, 1824

Clerks Superior Court, Appling County, 1820-18 26 —

John Bailey Oct. 6, 1820

John McAuley --Jan. 16, 1822

John McAuley ..Feb. 17, 1824

Surveyors Appling County, 1820-18 26 —

Daniel S. Whitehurst Oct. 6, 1820

John Stewart Jan. 16, 1822

John L. Stewart- Febi 17, 1824

Coroners of AppChg County, 1 820-1 821

James Mixon Oct. 6, 1820

Daniel Campbell Jan. 16, 1822

Malcolm Morrison Apr. 15. 1825

Jury Commissioners, Clinch County, 1 869-191 6 —
Note. — (*) removed from County; (t) resigned.

Set A. Dist. Appointed Term Expired

Joseph Sirmans 686 March 23, 1860 June 1,1870

David D.Mahon 1052 June 1,1870 June 1,1872

John W. Hodges 1224 June 1,1872 June 1,1874

John W.Hodges 1224 April ..,1874 June 1,1876

208

History of Clinch County, Georgia

H. A. Mattox 1224

M. M. CasweU* 1224

W. H. Gary 1224

H. A. Mattox 1224

W. A. Ecord 1224
William T. Howell 586

S. R. Kirton 1380

SetB.

George W. Newbern 1224
Thomas G. Ramsey 1224
Thomas G. Ramsey 1224
H. A. Mattox 1224

G. G. Foreman 1052
P. B. Sirmans 586

J. C. Humphreys* 1052
P. B. Sirmans 586

P. B. Sirmans 586

B. B. Mattox 1224

SetC.

James C. Smith 970
George W. Waldron 1141
James C. Smith 970
Alfred Newbern 1224
M. M. Caswell 1224

Solomon Mobley 1219
W. B. N. Crews 1052

A. J. Caswell (died) 1224
James R. Dickerson 1389
James R. Dickerson 1389
James J^. Dickerson 1389
M. S. Eason 970
John M. Smith 586

SetD.

Jonathan L. Morgan 1141

Charles H. North 1280

W. S. Pender* 1062

B. J. Sirmans 1280
B, J. Sirmans 1280
B. J. Sirmans* 1280
D. D. Piveash 1280
O. P. Register 1280
O.P.Register (died) 1280
J. P. Daugharty 1219

Set E

Simon P. White 1061

Blisha Moore 1061

Isham Patterson 1141

Elisha Moore 1061

J. W. James* 1061

B. B. Mattox 1224

Appointed

Mar. 4,1880

Jan. 1,1886

Jan. 1,1888

Jan. 1,1802

Jan. 1,1898

Jan. 1,1906

May 4,1910

Mar. 23 1869

June 1,1870

June 1,1872

April -, 1874

Mar 4,1880

Jan. 1,1886

Jan. 1,1892

April 12, 1894

Jan. 1,1898

April 13, 1906

May 4,1910

Mar. 23, 1869

June 1,1870

June 1,1872

April --,1874

April -,1876

Mar. 4,1880

Jan. 1,1887

Jan. 1,1890

April 12, 1894

Jan. 1,1896

April 17, 1902

April 17, 1908

April 17, 1914

Mar.

Jan.

April

Jan.

April

Mar.

4,188(i
-,1887

1,1890
12, 1894

1,1896
17,1902
25,1904
13,1906
15,1908
24, 1914

Mar. 4,1880
Mar. — , 1887
Mar. -, 1888
Jan. 1,1894
April 12, 1900
April 17, 1902

Term expired

Jan.

1886

Jan.

1892

Jan.

1892

Jan.
Jan.

1898

1904

Jan.

1910

May

1916

June

1870

June

1872

June

1874

June

1876

Jan.

1886

Jan.

1802

Jan.

1898

Jan.

1898

Jan.

1904

April 12,

1910

May

1916

June

1870

June

1892

June

1874

April

M^«

1876

June

1880

Jan.

1884

Jan.

1890

Jan.

1894

Jan.

1896

Jan.

1902

Jan.

1908

April 15,

1914

April 15,

1918

Jan.

1
1884

Jan.

1890

Jan.

1894

Jan.

1896

Jan.

1902

Jan.

1904

April 13,

1906

April 13,

1908

Jan.

1914

Jan.

1882

Mar.

1888

Jan.

1894

Jan.

1900

April 17, 1902

April 12, 1904

lit s

Offi «
< «^
6 tu

is
a E i!

George M. Dame

1224

W. H. Hinson

1389

W. H. Hinsdn

1389

SetF.

D. H. Johnson

1280

J. L. Morgan

1141

Ivy Davis

1141

W. J. Rives

1141

W. J. Rives

1141

M. Cowart*

1061

Moses Tomlinson,t

1052

J. Floyd Fender

1052

J. Floyd Fender

1052

History of Clikch Cdutity, Georgia 209

Appointed 'f emi expired

April 25, 1904 April 13, 1906

April 13, 1966 April 13, 1912

April 13, 1912 April 13, 1916

Mar. 4,1880 Jan. 1,1882

Mar. -^,1887 Jan. 1,1888

,1890 Jan. 1,1896

April 17»1^ Jan. 1,1900

April 12, 1900 April 12, 1904

Ai)ril 13, 1906 April 13, 1908

April 15, 1908 April 15, 1910

June 28, 1910 Ai>ril 13, 1912

April 13, 1912 April 13, 1916

County Registrars, 1895-1916^ —

( Terms : Two years each. )

Bi E. M^ttox and C. Ci Drawdy, Democrats, jlnd C. C.
Bridges, Populist, appointed Jan. 26, 1895.

L. C. Mattox, Populist, viee C. C. Bridges, rembved, ap-
pointed Septi 24, 1896.

B. E. Mattox and C. C. Drawdy, Democrats, and J. M.
Kight, Populist, appointed July 18, 1898.

B. E. Mattox and W. H. Gary, Democrats, and J. M.
Kight, Populist, appointed April 12, 1900.

J. T; Dame and J. F. Daugharty, Democrats, ahd J. M.
Kight, Populist, appointed April 17, 190I.

B. E. Mattox and R. M. Crum, Democrats, and J. M.
Kight, Populist, appointed April 25, 1904.

G; C. Dfawdy, Democrat, vice B. E. Mattox, resigned, ap-
pointed June 15, 1904.

C. C. Drawdy and R. M. Crum, Democrats, and ,

Populist^ apt)ointed April ^3, 1906.

B. E. Mattox, R. M. Crum and B. A. Hat-per, Democrats,
appointed Oct. 20, 1909.

Geo. M. Dame, Democrat, vice R. M. Crum^ deceased,
appointed Dec. 24, 1909.

B. E. Mattox, George M. Dame and B. A. Harper, Dem-
ocrats, appointed , 1912.

C. H. Smith, J. T. Dame and W. J. Wallace, Democrats,
appointed March 25, 19 14.

2IO

History of Clinch County, Georgia

B. A. Harper, Democrat, vice W. J. Wallace, deceased,
appointed May 15, 19 14.

C. H. Smith, Folks Huxford and I. W. Allen, Democrats,
appointed March 28, 191 6.

Commercial Notaries Public of Clinch County-

( Terms: 4 Years Each.)

Name

District

Simon W. Hitch

1224

Lee L. DuPont

1280

Robert L. Rives

1219

B. A. Harper

1389

Harrison H. Guess

586

W. B. Hamby

1219

Noble A. Simians

1280

S. C. Townsend

1224

W. B. Hamby

1219

Harrison H. Guess

586

Jesse Grantham

1224

C. J. Mainor

586

M. A. McDowell

1224

H. J. Dame

1224

Harrison H. Guess

586

J. Tom Faulk

1224

John M. Agee

1052

S. R. Kirton

1219

John F. Hughes

1224

H. M. Peagler

1224

S. C. Patterson

1389

Harrison H. Guess

586

H. J. Dame

1224

S. R. Kirton

1219

J. J; Langdale

1219

John F. Hughes

1224

Calvin B. McRae

1219

G. A. Gibbs

1224

Appoin

Dec. 23

Mar. 5

Oct. 27

May 8

May 21

May 7

Oct. 25

June 17

Dec. 24

Mar. 3

April 6

June 2

Jan. 6

Jan. 13

Jan. 23

April 9

Oct. 17

Mar. II

Oct. 23

May 14

Jan. 13

May 3

Aug. 8

Mar. 14

Mar. 17

Dec. 20

ed
868

894

894
896

897
897
898

900
901
901
902

903

903
906

906

907

906

907

908

910

911

History of Clinch County, Georgia

211

Name

District

Appointed

C. A. Cotter

1224

Mar. 8, 1912

W. H. Myddlcton

1219

June 25, 19 12

F. F. Cornelius

1219

July 10, 1 9 13

E. B. Register

1224

Aug. 28, 1913

Harrison H. Guess

586

Feb. 17, 1914

S. R. Kirton

1389

iviar. 24, 1 9 14

J. J. Langdale

1219

July 4, 1914

Folks Huxford

1224

Nov. 18, 1914

W. H. Moncrief

1224

Oct. 26, 191 5

G. A. Gibbs

1224

Dec. 20, 1 91 5

Road Commissioners, Clinch County, 1 869-1915 —
(Three Commissioners for each District.)

586th District.

Name
D. H. Johnson
D. H. Johnson
A. J. Whitehurst
W.J.Lee
A. J. Whitehurst
W. J. Lee
W. J. Lee
Harris Sirmans
Harris Sirmans
Harris Sirmans
A. J, Whitehurst
Elbert Burkhalter
Harris Sirmans
C. C. Bridges
C. F. Brack
C. F. Brack
Randol Brogdon
Joseph Powell
Joseph Powell
Joseph Powell
Joseph Powell
Joseph Powell
Joseph Powell
Joseph Powell

Name
D. J. Sirmans
D. J. Sirmans
D. J. Sirmans
D. H. Johnson
D. H. Johnson
Moses Smith
D. H. Johnson
M. S. Corbitt

C. W. Curry

D. H. Johnson
D. H. Johnson
Moses Smith
Moses Smith
Benj. Smith
Benj. Smith
Moses Smith
John King

P. M. Anderson
M. C. Tomlinson
F. M. Anderson
F. M. Anderson
Marcus Tomlinson
Marcus Tomlinson
Marcus Tomlinson

Name
W. S. Tomlinson
W. S. Tomlinson
W. S. Tomlinson
C. W. Curry
C. W. Curry
C. W. Curry
C. W. Curry
Moses Smith
Moses Smith
C. W. Curry
F. B. Sirmans
P. B. Sirmans
F. B. Sirmans
Jas. M. Corbitt
Moses Smith
F. M. Anderson
S. L. Mainor
P. B. Sirmans
John Pafford
M. B. Pafford
J. M. Smith
J. M. Smith
J. M. Smith
L. H. Lee

970th District.

James C. Smith Jesse Smith

William Register Jesse Smith .

James C. Smith C. A. Smith

James Brown Elisha Higgs

William Gaines
Benj. Stalvey
Matthew Fiveash
Geo. A. Fiveash

Appointed
Jan. 18, 1869
Mar. 4,1871
Feb. 23, 1872
Mar. 21, 1873
Feb. -, 1874
Feb. -, 1876
Jan. — , 1876
Feb. .., 1877
Feb. 16, 1878
Jan. 6,1879
Feb. 2,1880
Apr. 5,1881
Mar. 7,1883
Feb. 25, 1887
Feb. 25, 1889
Feb. 2,1891
Feb. 6,1893
Feb. 4,1901
Jan. 1,1903
Jan. 2,1905
Jan. 7,1907
Jan. 4,1909
Jan. 2,1911
Mar. 3,1913

July -., 1868
Jan. 18, 1869
July 5,1869
Feb. 12, 1870

1I2

History of Clinch County, Georgia

Name
William Gaines
William Gaines
Eli W. O'Quin
Eli W. O'Quin
William Joyce
Eli W. O'Quin
William Joyce
William Joyce
William Joyce
William Joyce
William Joyce
William Barlow
Eli W. O'Quin
Eli W. O'Quin
Eli W. O'Quin

A. R. Re^ster

B. S. Register
W. B. Griffis
W. B. Griffis
W. B. Griffis
W. B. Griffis
W. B. Griffis
W. B. Griffis

D. D. Mahon

D. D. Mahoil
G. G. Foreman,
Gi G. Forenlan,
G. G. Fortman,
G. G. Foreman,
G. C. Foreman
J.R.G. Haiililton
J. R.G. Hamilton
W* S. Phillips
W. S. Phillips
W. B. N. Crews
J. C. Humphreys
J. C. Humphreys
T. C. Humphreys
R. S. Holtzendorf
J. Floyd Fender
James A. Mathis
T. J. Johnson

E. J. Futch
E. J. Futch
I. W. Allen
I. W. Allen
I. W. Allen

Chas. A. Griffis
Chas. A. Griffis

Name
Jesse Smith
J. W. Futch
J. W. Futch
Wm. Tomlinson
Wm. Tomlinson
M. C. Futch
M. C. Futch
M. C. Futch
M. C. Futch
Jas. M. Smith Jr.
M. C. Futch
J, M. Mobley
William Bariow
E. J. Futch
Jas. M. Futch
Tas. M. Smith
P. W. Griffis
E. J. Futch
J. H. Ferdon
Matthew Stalvey
M. S. Eason
M. S. Eason
Matthew Stalvey

Name
Geo. A. Fiveash
B. W. Douglass
Jesse Smith
Jesse Smith
Geo. A. Fiveash
Nelion Green
David O'Quin
David O'Quin
David O'Quin
David O'Quin
H. A. O'Quin

Jas. M. Smith
Tas. M. Smith
E. J. Futch
E. J. Futch
M.H.Hilliard
M. H. Hilliard
B. S. Register
M. H. Hilliard
M. tt. Hilliard
M. H. Hilliard
M. H. Hilliard

1 05 2d District.

Q. B. Staten
Q. B. Staten
Q. B. Staten

D. C. Lancaster
Wm. Touchstone
Wm. Touchstone
Wm. Touchstone
John Touchstone
William H. Green

E. J. Sirmans
J. W. Howell
Wm. Touchstone
D. M. Crews
W. B. N. Crews
W. B. N. Crews
W. B. N. Crews
C. S. Touchstone
H. A. Tomlinson
M. M. Cowart

M. F. Tiihmerman
J. A. Holtzendorf
A. H. Timmerman
A. H. Timmerman
H. A. Tomlinson

E. J. Sirmans
E. J. Sirmans
John Knight
John Knight
John Knight
John Knight
John Knigirt
S. W. Register
S. W. Register
S. W. Register
Tohn Knight
C. M. D. Howell
J. R. Allen
J. R. Allen
J. R. Allen
J. R. Allen
T. R. Allen
J. R. Allen
H. A. Tomlinson
H. A. Tomlinson
Wm. Tomlinson
Wm. Tomlinson
Wm. Tomlinson

Appointed
Mar. 4,1871
Feb. ?3, 1872
Mar. 21, 1873
Feb. -, 1874
Feb. -, 1875
Jan. — , 1876
Feb. -, 1877
Feb. 16, 1878
Jan. 6,1879
Feb. 2,1880
Apr. 5,1881
Mar. 7,1883
Feb. 25, 1887
Feb. 25, 1889
Feb. 2, 1891
Feb. 6,1893
Feb. 4,1901
Jan. 1,1903
Jan. 2,1905
Jan. 7,1907
Jan. 4,1909
Jan. 2,1911
Mar. 3,1913

Jam
Mar.
Feb.
Mar.
Feb.
Feb;
Tan.
Feb.
Feb.
Jan.
Feb.
Apr.
Mar.
Feb.
Feb.
Feb.
Feb.
Feb.
Jan.
Jan.
Jan.
Jan.
Jan.
Mar.

16
6
2
6
7
25
25
2
6
4
1
2
7
4
2
3

1869
1871
1872
1873
1874
1875
1876
1877
1878
1879
1880
1881
1883
1887
1889
1891
1893
1901
1903
1905
1907
1909
1911
1913

1 06 1 St District.

Wm. T. Bennett John Smith
George W. Delk John T. Morgan

Jan. 18, 1869
Feb. 12, 1870

Hhtory of Clinch County, Georgia

Name

Appointed

Chas. A. Griffis

Duncan Gjddens

J. R. Dickerson

Mar. 1,1871

Cbas. A. Griffis

Duncan Giddens

J. R. Dickerson

Feb. 23, 1872

Chas. A. Griffis

H.P.V

J, R. Dickerson

Mar. 21, 1873

Chas. A. Grigis

H.P.V

Simon P. White

Feb..., 1874

Chas. A. Griffis

H.P.V

William Griffis

Feb. .-, 1875

Chas. A. Griffis

H.P.V

Simon P. White

'— . __, 1878

Chas. A. Griffis

K.C.C

John Moore

. -, 1877

William Griffis

.R.D

John Moore

. le, 1878

William Griffis

:i:g

Simon P. White

, 6,1879

William Griffis

Ephriam McLendon

. 2,1880

William Griffis

. . R. D

J. S. Williams

. 5,1881

William Griffis

E.C.H

Simgn P. White

. 7,1883

EUas Griffis

E.C.H

John H. Smith

.25,1887

George W. Delk

E.C.H

P. M. Guest

,25;iS8e

Eltas Griffis

Mattht

Eiisha Moore

. 2,1891

Irwin Corbitt

E. C. Hodges

F. M. Guest

. 6,1893

Irwin Corbitt

W. J. Corbitt

W. J. Griffis

. 4,1901

S. A. Lastinger

W. J. Corbitt

Rowan Mkell

. 1,1903

S. A. Lastinger

W.J. Corbitt

Manning Cowart

. 2,1905

Newsom Corbitt

W. J. Corbitt

J.W.James

. 7,1907

L.H.LockHer

W. J. Corbitt

K. J. Giddens

. 4,1900

L. H. Locklier

W. J. Corbitt

K. J. Giddens

. 2,1911.

Elias h. Griffis

Miles J. Guest

Manning Cowart

. 3,1913

ir4ist

District

W. J. Rives

W. B. North

G. W. Waldron

July .., 1868

W. J. Rives

W. B. North

G. W. Waldron

Jan. 18, 1869

David M. Riberon James North

Ish§m Patterson

Mar. 4,1371

David M. Riberon Tames North

Isham Patterson

Feb. 23, 1872

Ivy Davis

ames North

Mar.21, 1873

Ivy Davis

am^s North

Feb, -. 1874

Jerry Davis

ames North

Feb. — , 1875

Ivy Davis

V. B. North

Jan. -., 1876

. L. Morgan

ohn R. Inman

Feb. „, 1877

. . L. Morgan
, . L. Morgan

ohn R, Inman

Feb. 16. 1878

ohn R. Inman

Jan. 6,1879
Feb. 2,1880

, . L. Morgan
vy Davis

ohn R. Inm^n

'. sham Patterson

Apr. 5,1881

I sham Patterson

Mar. 7,1883
Feb. 25, 18S7

I sham Patterson

Feb: 25, 1889

Wm.B. North

Feb. 2,1891

D. M. Riberon

Feb. 6,1893

A. B. Griffis

Feb. 4,1901

A. B. Griffis

an. 1,1903

A. B. Griffis

an. 2,190S

A. B. Griffis

an. 7, 1907

A. B. Griffis

an. 4,1900

A, B, Griffis

Ian. 3,1911

A. B. Griffis

Mar. 3,1813

214

History of Clinch County, Georgia

1219th District.

Name
John Sears
Hiram Sears
Hiram Sears
Peter Lastinger
Peter Lastinger
Solomon Mobley
Solomon Mobley
Solomon Mobley
Solomon Mobley
Solomon Mobley
Solomon Mobley
Solomon Mobley
Saml Swearingen
Solomon Mobley
J. L. Swearingen
J. L. Swearingen
J. L. Swearingen
J. L. Swearingen
G. C. Register
G. C. Register
G. C. Register
G. C. Register
W. T. Drew
A. L. Sirmans
A. L. Sirmans

J. L. Sweat
J. L. Sweat
Erie Edwards
J. C. Kirkland
J. C. Kirkland
John H. Mattox
J. C. Kirkland
Samuel Narger
Samuel Narger
J. C. Kirkland
J. C. Kirkland
Peter Williams
Moses Thornton
John H. Mattox
John H. Mattox
John H. Mattox
Robert M. Crum
Robert M. Crum
Robert M. Crum
C. H. Dickerson
T. B. Dickerson
T. B. Dickerson
C. H. Smith
T. G. Jenkins

Name
Ichabod Foreacre
Ichabod Foreacre
Solomon Mobley
John Jourdan, Sr.
John Jourdan, Sr.
John Jourdan, Sr.
Ichabod Foreacre
A. T. Jourdan
A. T. Jourdan
Ichabod Foreacre
A. T. Jourdan
Ichabod Foreacre
A. T. Jourdan
A. T. Jourdan
William Griffin
S. S. Mobley
Aaron Foreacre
Aaron Foreacre
W. H. Mobley
W. H. Mobley
W. H. Mobley
G. W. Daugharty
G. C. Register
W.H. Rives
W.H. Rives

John W. Hodges
John W. Hodges
John H. Mattox
John W. Hodges
John W. Hodges
A. J. Caswell
Alfred Newbem
Alfred Newbem
H. A. Atattox
H. A. Mattox
H. A. Mattox
W. H. Gary
A. J. Berg
Daniel Dickerson
Daniel Dickerson
Daniel O'Steen
Jonathan O'Steen
Daniel O'Steen
Daniel O'Steen
Daniel O'Steen
J. S. Kirkland
J. S. Kirkland
J. S. Kirkland
David J. Sirmans

Name

Appointed

James Lee

Jan. 18, 1869

John M. Dowling

Man 4,1871

John Collins

Feb. 23, 1872

John Collins

Mar. 21, 1873

John Collins

Feb. .., 1874

John Collins

Feb. .-, 1876

John A. Johnson
Frank Daugharty

Jan. .., 1876

Feb. -, 1877

Ichabod Foreacre

Feb. 16, 1878

John A. Johnson

Jan. 6,1879

John A. Johnson
John A. Johnson

Feb. 2,1880

Apr. 5,1881

A. R. Mixon

Mar. 7,1883

J. G. Mixon

Feb. 26, 1887

J. G. Mixon

Feb. 25, 1889

W. B. Griffis

Oct. 7,1890

Irwin Baldree

Feb. 2,1891

Peter A. Young

Feb. 6,1893

Henry Rives

Feb. 4,1901

John M. Young

Jan. 1,1903

John M. Young

Jan. 2,1905

John M. Young

Jan. 7,1907

Peter A. Young

Jan. 4,1909

John M. Young

Jan. 2,1911

John M. Young

Mar. 3,1913

District.

R. G. Dickerson

Jan. 18, 1869

R. G. Dickerson

Mar. 4,1871

Robert B. Crum

Feb. 23, 1872

H. A. Mattox

Mar. 21, 1873

H. A. Mattox

Feb. -., 1874

H. A. Mattox

Feb. -, 1875

J. R. Dickerson

Jan. -., 1876

James M. Kight

Feb. -., 1877

James M. Kight

Feb. 16, 1878

James M. Kight

Jan. 6,1879

C. H. Smith

Feb. 2,1880

C. H. Smith

Apr. 5,1881

C. H. Smith

Mar. 7,1883

0. F. Mattox

Feb. 25, 1887

John J. Smith

Feb. 25, 1889

S. R. Smith

Feb. 6,1893

S. R. Smith

Feb. 4,1901

S. R. Smith

Jan. 1,1903

S. R. Smith

Jan. 2,1905

A. B. Smith

Jan. 7,1907

A. B. Smith

Jan. 4,1909

A. B. Smith

Tan. 2,1911

A. B. Smith

Mar. 3,1913

J. G. Tomlinson

Feb. .., 1877

History of Clinch County, Georgia

215

Name
T. G. Jenkins
P. M. Lee
P. M. Lee
R. 6. Johnson
R. B, Johnson
P. M. Lee
John T. Courson
John T. Courson
D. H. Johnson
D. H. Johnson
L. L. DuPont
L. L. DuPont
C. C. Lee
C. M. McLamb
C. M. McLamb
C. M. McLamb
C. M. McLamb

S. W. Register
S. W, Register
S. W. Register
P. M, Bennett
A. O. Register
J. R. Allen
J. R. Allen
T. £. McLain
'W. M. Zeiglcr
E. B. Allen
J. R. Allen

1280th District.

Name Name

David J. Sirmans J. G. Tomlinson
David J. Sirmans Levin Tomlinson
David J. Sirmans George Cornelius
David J. Sirmans George Cornelius
D. J. Sirmans, Jr. John A. Mikell
C. H. North John A. Mikell

F. D. Clifton P. M. Lee

J. W. HoUoway Artemus Rice
Augustus DuPont J. J. Hughes
J.H. W.Livingston, J. A. Mobley

Joseph Jones
C. H. North
C. H. North
Robert E. Lee
E. E. Tomlinson
E. E. Tomlinson
E. E. Tomlinson

P. A. Register
J. P. Tomlinson
J. P. Tomlinson
F. M. Hughes
F. M. Hughes
F. M. Hughes
F. M. Hughes

1365th District.

J. J. Taylor
J. J. Taylor
J. J. Taylor
M. A. Taylor
P. M. Bennett
Seward Bennett
Seward Bennett
Seward Bennett
N. E. Baldwin
A. J. Baldwin
E. C. Dedge

W. R. Keen
W. E. Taylor
Marion Bennett
John Griffis
I. W. Griffin
John McLain
A. G. Bennett
A. G. Bennett
A. G. Bennett
W. M. Zeigler
John McLain

1389th District.

J. R. Dickerson
J. R. Dickerson
W. H. Hinson
W.J.StricklandJr.
W. H. Hinson
W. H. Hinson
W. H. Hinson
W. H. Hinson
W. M. Kight
J. R. Dickerson
J. R. Dickerson

James M. Kight
James M. Kight
F. M. Kight
T. P. Jordan
Randal Corbitt
J. J. Dickerson
J. J. Dickerson
D. J. Godwin
D. J. Godwin
Randal Corbitt
Randal Corbitt

J. R. Allen
T. R. Allen
N. J. Smith
W. M. Mainor
B. A. Harper
B. A. Harper
B. A. Harper
B. A. Harper
B. A. Harper
W. M. Kight
W. M. Kight

Jailors of Clinch County —

(This List is not complete.)

M. S. Mcintosh

Robert B. Crum

Appointed
Feb. 16, 1878
Jan. 6

Feb.
Apr.
Mar. 7
Feb. 25
Feb. 25
Sept. 9
Feb.
Feb.
Feb.
Jan.
Jan.
Jan.
Jan.
Jan.
Mar.

1879
1880
1881
1883
1887
1889
1890
1891
1893
1901
1903
1905
1907
1909
1911
1913

Feb.
Feb.
Feb.
Feb.
Feb.
Jan.
Jan.
Jan.
Jan.
Jan.
Mar.

25,1887
25, 1889
2, 1891
6, 1893
4,1901
1,1903
2,1905
7,1907
4,1909
2, 1911
3, 1913

25,1887
25,1889
2, 1891
6,1893
4,1901
1,1903
2,1905
7,1907
4,1909
2, 1911
3, 1913

.Feb. 13, 1875
May 13, 1876

:ji6 History of Clinch County, Georgia

Erie Edwards April 13, 1877

A. B. Findley Aug. 4, 1879

William D. Smith 1880

K. C. Smith Mar. 6, 1885

A. T. Newbcm 1894

T, F. M. Sweat 1901

C W. Byrd 1911

S. W. Elliott - 1913

Clerks pf Court of Ordinary —

L. A. Sirmans Sept. i, 1868

Josiah Sirmans Aug. i, 1873

H. C. Dukes, Dept M^y 4, 1874

Josiah Sirmans Oct. 10, 1877

S. L. Drawdy Feb. 14, 1889

R, G. Dickerson Jai>. 15, 1902

Prc3id^nt$ of Board of Education —

H. A. Mattox 1 872-1 876 James A. O'Steen 1 898-1902

A. J, Caswell 1 888-1 892 Jesse R. Booth 1902-1904

N. S. Knight 1892 F. M. Hughes 19P4-1913

H. A. Mattox 1 892-1 893 John G. Griffis 19 13-19 15

Benjamin Smith 1893-1894 D. O. Johnson I9i5-i9?6

D. C. Fender 1 894-1 898

Judges of Superior Court, Clinch County, 1850-19 19 —
Note. — (*) resigned; (t) appointed.
I.Augustus H. Hansell Hawkinsville, Ga. 1850-1853

2. Peter E. Love Thomas ville, Ga. 1853-1855

3. A. E. Cochran Brunswick, Ga. 1855-1859

4. William M. Sessions Holmesville, Ga. 1859?! 861

5. A. E. Cochran Brunswick, Ga. 1861-1864

6. William M. Sessions* Blackshear, Ga. 1 864-1 872

7. John L. Harris (died) Brunswick, Ga. 1 872-1 879

8. Martin L. Mershon* Brunswick, Ga. 1 879-1 886

9. Courtland Symmest Brunswick, Q^, 1886

?0. Spencer R. Atkinson* Brunswick, Ga. J886-1891

History of Clinch County, Georgia

217

1 1 . J. L. Sweat

12. Joseph W. Bennett*

13. F. Willis Dartt

14. Thomas A. Parker*

15. J. W. Quinceyt

16. James I. Summerall

Waycross, Ga. 1891-1897

Brunswick, oa. 1897- 1902

Douglas, Ga. 1902- 1903

Baxley, Ga. 1903- 19 14

Douglas, Ga. 1914-1915

Blackshear, Ga. 1915-1919

Solicitors General, 1867-1916—

1. J. S. Wiggins 1 867-1 869 6. J. I. Carter 1 885.1 889

2. P. B. Bedford 1869 7. W. G. Brantley i889-'97

3. A. J. Liles 1 869-1 87 1 8. John W. Bennett 1 897-^09

4. Simon W. Hitch 1871-1881 9. J. H. Thomas 1909-1910

5. G. B. Mabry 1881-1885 10 M. D. Digkcrson i9io-'i9

Fprepien of Grand Juries, Clinch County, 1867-19^6^—

Note. — ^This infprmatipii ijs given, as the author bplieves
it will be of interest l)esi4^s throwing light on th§ leaders
of the day. The militia district numbers following ea^h pame
shows the district in which the foreman lived.

Term

Nam^^

District

Sept. ]

[867

John C. Kirkland

1224

March ]

[868

Pavid D. Mahon

1052

Sept. ]

[868

Thoinas G. Ramsey

1224

April ]

[869

John C. Kirkland

1224

Oct. ]

[869

John C. Kirkland

1224

June 1

870

Thomas G. Ramsey

1224

April ]

[871

Cornelius A. Smith

970

Oct. ]

[871

Jesse Smith

970

April ]

[872

David J. Sirmans

970

Oct. ]

[872

William S. Tomlinspn

586

April ]

t873

David J. Sirmans

970

Oct. ]

1873

John C. Kirkland

1224

April ]

[874

Francis M. Jackson

5?6

Oct. ]

[874

David H. Johnson

586

April

[875

Martin S. Corbitt

1061

Oct.

[875

Glover G. Foreman

• » •

1052

April

[876

Peter Stotesberry

1052

2l8

History of Clinch County, Georgia

Tenn

Name

District

Oct. ]

[876

David J. Sirmans

1280

April 1

1877

Charles Strickland

586

Oct. ]

[877

Francis M. Jackson

586

April 1

1878

David J. Sirmans

1280

Oct. ]

[878

Frank Sloat

1052

Oct. ]

[879

David O'Quin

970

March i

[880

Charles Strickland

586

Sept. 1

[880

Peter Williams

1224

March ]

[881

Hamilton A. Mattox

1224

Oct. 1

[881

Francis M. Jackson

586

March i

[882

Cornelius A. Smith

1224

March i

[883

Madison M. Caswell

1224

Oct. ]

[883

F. B. Sirmans

586

March i

[884

G. G. Foreman

1052

Oct. 1

[884

Benjamin Smith

586

March i

[885

F. B. Sirmans

586

Oct. ]

[885

Cornelius A. Smith

1224

March i

[886

Moses Tomlinson

1052

Oct. ]

[886

Francis M. Jackson

586

March 1

[887

Moses I'omlinson

1052

Oct. 1

[887

John J. Drawdy

1224

March i

[888

Moses Tomlinson

1052

Oct. 1

[888

R. S. Holtzendorf

1052

March i

[889

John C. Humphreys

1052

Oct. 1

[889

Martin S. Corbitt

IO61

March 1

[890

John C. Humphreys

1052

Oct. 1

[890

Willis B. Gibbs

1280

March i

[891

Hamilton A. Mattox

1224

(

Oct. 1

[891

Lewis Smith

1224

March 1

[892

Hamilton A. Mattox

1224

Oct. ]

[892

Andrew J. Caswell

1224

March i

1893

John C. Humphreys

1052

Oct. 1

t893

Martin S. Corbitt

1061

April ]

[894

William A. Ecord

1224

Oct. ]

[894

Elisha Moore

1061

April 1

[895

E. J. Futch

970

History of Clinch County ^ Georgia

219

Term

Name

District

Oct.

1895

James R. Dickerson

1389

April

1896

B. E. Mattox

1224

Oct.

1896

E. J. Futch

970

April

1897

Moses Tomlinson

1052

Oct.

1897

Moses Smith

586

April

1898

Randal Brogdon

586

Oct.

1898

Elisha Moore

IO61

April

1899

Martin S. Corbitt

I061

Oct.

1899

J. R. Dickerson

1389

April

1900

B. E. Mattox

1224

Oct.

1900

F. B. Sirmans

586

April

1901

Samuel Cowart

1280

Oct.

1 901

R. M. Crum

1224

April

1902

E. J. Futch

970

Oct.

1902

Augustus DuPont

1280

April

1903

William T. Smith

1224

Oct.

1903

James A. O'Steen

1224

April

1904

Frank Dickerson

1280

Oct.

1904

R. M. Crum

1224

April

1905

F. B. Sirmans

586

Oct.

1 90s

P. McK. Williams

970

April

1906

Perry M. Lee

1280

Oct.

1906

W. B. N. Crews

1052

April

1907

William A. Ecord

1224

Oct.

1907

Charlton H. Smith

1224

April

1908

F. B. Sirmans

586

Oct.

1908

A. H. Culpepper

1224

April

1909

H. J. Peagler

1224

Oct.

1909

F. B. Sirmans

586

May

1910

George M. Dame

1224

Nov.

1910

Warren R. Dickerson

586

May

1911

F. B. Sirmans

586

March

1912

J. Floyd Fender

1052

Oct.

1912

S. R. Kirton

1389

March

1913

Acy H. Timmerman

1052

Oct.

1913

B. E. Mattox

1224

Z20 History of Clinch County , Georgia

Term Name District

March 19 14 S. A. Sweat 1224

Oct. 19 14 S. R. Kirton 1389

March 19 15 George M. Dam^ 1224

Oct. 191 5 Mo^es S. Eason 970

March 191 6 Johp F. Daugharty 12 19

Clerks of County Court (old court) —

Simon W. Hitch May iZy 1866

John L. Morgan Aug. ^7, 1866

Robert L. King, Jr Feb. i, 1867

Bailiffs County Court-^

William M. Austin May 30, 1866

James B. 0*Quin June 4, 1866

Allen Smith June 2, 1866

J. J. Sweat Dec. 30, 1907

P. R. Lee Dec. 31, 1908

Deputy Clerks County Court —

M. A. Cornelius June j, 1913

Folks Huxford Dec. 8, 1914

Clerks Superior Court and Their Deputies —

Clerks Term Deputies

John C. Kirkland 1850-1853^ Jonathan Knight

George W. Newbern 1852-1854 A. D. Laslie

Archibald D. Laslie 1854-1856

David O'Quin 1856-1868 John H- Mattox

Dan H. Stewart
Francis M. Goettc
J. L. Sweat
L. Smith

James C. Cooper
H. D. O'Quin 1868-1871 George W. Newbern

Alfred Newbern
James Tomlinson 1871-1873 Josiah Sirm^ns

Edward T. Dukes 1 873-1 875 C. A. Smith

History of Clinch County, Georgia

111

Clerks

Term

Deputies

P. M. L^e

187^1877

A. J. Caswell
M. M. Caswell

Cornelius A. Smith

1877-1880

i88b.i88i

David O'Quin

Josiah Sirmaitls

Abraham Morgan

1881-1883

N. J. Smith '^

B. A. Whittington
James P. Mattox

C. C. Drawdy
R. J. Panh^l
Perryman Moore

B. R. Johnsdh

1883-1884

Isbin Tomlinson

W. A. Ecord

1 884-1 893

I. H. Drawdy
Roscoe W. Yates

S. W. Register

1893-1908

A. 0. Register
P. E. Findley
J. E. Jordan

A. O. Register

1908-1909

A. J. Gibbs

1909-1921

G. A. Gibbs

Deputy Sheriffs of Clinch County, Georgia —

^ Sheriffs

Term

Deputies

Harrison Jones

1 866-1 867

William M. Austin

Joseph E. Bass

1868-1871

Erwin Johnson
James M. Nelms

James M. Nelms

1871-1873

John J. Drawdy
John G. Tomlinson
Joseph E. Bass

Robert N. Brady

1873-1875

Erie Edwards

David H. Johnson

1875-1879

A. B. Findley
Erie Edwards
Eason Smith

John 1. Courson

1879-1881

A. B. Findley

Jerry M. Jeffords

1881-1887

John A. Mikell
K. C. Smith

B. E. Mattox

1887-1889

Jefferson D. Mattox

William S. Mattox

222

History of Clinch County, Georgia

Sheriffs

Tcnn

Deputies

Frank Dickerson

1889-1897

T. F. M. bweat
Absalom T. Newbem

Bryant O'Stecn

1 897-1901

S. A. Sweat

I9OI-1909

Jerome J*. Sweat

•

J. Tom Faulk
R. S. WiUiams
John H. Mattox
G. C. Register

Perry R. Lee

I909-I917

George W. North

•

G. C. Register
A. Hargraves
S. W. Elliott

CHAPTER XIV.

Sketches of Lives of Clinch County Officers, 1850-1916.

Alphabetically Arranged.

A USTIN, WILLIAM M., was bom in this State in 1 830,
r\ Coming to Clinch when young, he settled here, and at
various times was in the employment of the Atlantic &
Gulf Railroad. The first office that he held in this county
was that of justice of the Inferior Court, to which he was
commissioned September loth, 1861. In 1862, when
O'Steen's company was organized at Homerville for service
in the Confederate Army, Mr. Austin enlisted and served
as a sergeant in his company. Returning home, he' was elected
tax collector in 1864, and served two years. Under Harri-
son Jones he served a short while as deputy sheriff, and in
1867 was elected sheriff for the unexpired term of Mr. Jones.
After this he was station agent at Homerville a while. By
his wife, Harriet E. Austin, Mr. Austin had six children^
viz.: E. A. Austin, Rosa, Bartow, Lealona, John and H.
Austin, these names being obtained from an old census re«
port for 1870. Subsequently Mr. Austin removed to Wayne
County, where he died. /7^

BARNHILL, JOHN FRANKUN,.jwwH^ I^orry
County, S. C, March 27, liitfrfcrrfcSmt to this State at an
early age. He married Miss Sula Johnson, of Bryan County,
Georgia, November 5th, 1896, and they have three chil- , .

dren, Leo, Audrey and Olney Barnhillr^n 1902 Mr. Bam- ^

hill came to Clinch County and engaged in the turpentine
business, in which he has become signally successful, finan-
cially. He is now one of the largest land owners in the
county. He lived in the 1141st district at a place called
Lyken until 19 13, when he removed to Homerville. He built
a beautiful home at Lyken, and at Homerville has a still bet-

224 History of Clinch County, Georgia

tcr residence. Mr. Bamhill was postmaster at Lyken for
several years. Lyken was connected by a star route with
Homerville. In 19 14-'! 5, Mr. Bamhill, together with Mr.
J. H. Ferdon, bought and installed the town's light and
water plant. In 19 15 he was elected on the to^yn council, and
was appointed on the Board of County Commissioners cre-
ated by Legislative Act. Upon the organization of the
Board in September, he was elected its chairman, which posi-
tion he fmmimUis. In 1916 he was elected for the full term
of foui^ears beginning January ist, 1917, defeating A. B.
Sprfth. Mr. Bamhill, although possessed of a meager edu-
^ dation, is one of the best business men in the county, and his
Ix^ service on the Board has demonstrated his high character
. V ^ y' and business ability,

^ \- BASS, JOSEPH EVERETT, was botn in Sampson

'\>>'"*' Courity, N; C, Febmary nth, 181 1. When eighteeh years
old he moved to Sunlter Couhty, Georgia, where the present
city of AiTlericus' now is. He engaged in the Cherokee Indian
wir wheh it came on^ ahd after it was over he weht back
to his old home and married Miss Christian Cameton. Com-
ing back td Sumter County, he lived there until a few years
later. Whik in Sumter County, four children were bom td
them, David A. Bass, Archibald C; Bass, Mary J. Bas^, and
Joseph E. Bass, Jr. Moving to IrwinsVille, in Irwin County,
he was sheriff of that county for eight years. A few years
prior to the war he moved to Clinch County and settled three
miles south of Homerville, but when the Civil War broke out,
he moved his family to town. In 1868 he was elected sheriff
of Clinch County, an office which he held three years. After
his term of office expired, Mr. Bass served as a deputy under
his successor, James M. Nelms, until 1872, when he removed
to Orlando, Fla. Here he served as deputy sheriff four years,
afterwards moving to Tampa, Fla., where he died August
15th, 1897, ^g^ 86 years. At the time of his death he was
survived by seven children.

History of Clinch County, Georgia 225

BRADY, ROBERT N., was born in this State in 1840,
in what Js now Fulton County. He was bom and raised on
a farm which his father owned not far from where Atlanta
now is. Prior to the Civil War, Mr. Brady bought a pair of
horses and a pair of mules and with a big wagon of
merchandise, started out to trade in live stock and merchan-
dise. He came to this section during the war, and married
Miss Ann Marshall, of Berrien County, by whom he had two
sons, Samuel H., and John Brady. When O'Steen's company
was organized in Homerville for service in the Confederate
Army, Mr. Brady, together with his brothers, joined this
company, serving until 1865. Returning home he opened up
a store at Lawton, which he ran until his election as sheriff of
Clinch County in 1872. In this election he defeated James
North. Mr. Brady was commissioned January i8th, 1873.
In 1874 he was killed by some parties who lived in the vicin-
ity of the Okefinokee Swamp. Mr. Brady had a warrant
for a party who lived in the neighborhood of the swamp, and
after pursuing his man as far as the Everglades in Florida,
captured him and carried him to Live Oak, Fla., and put
him in jail, as Cliftch County had no jail then. He returned
home on a Friday night and at dinner the next day was called
from his table by parties in front of his house, and as he
emerged through the door was shot in the chest before he
could hardly recognize his assailants. The sheriff's brother,
Lewis J. Brady, was at the house at the time, and came out
and engaged the crowd who proved to be relatives and con-
federates of the man whom the sheriff had arrested. Lewis
J. Brady was shot in the abdomen and died in a few minutes.
The sheriff lingered after this for three months and six days
and died from the effects of the shot in his breast. He could
not speak above a whisper from the time he was shot until
he died. Thus ended the life of a brave officer of the law,
faithful to every trust.

226 History of Clinch County, Georgia

BURKHALTER, RICHARD H., son of Isaac Burklial-
ter, was bom in Charleston, S. C, April 24th, 1806. When
Richard was small his father moved to Pulaski County, Geor-
gia, and there the son grew to manhood, and married Miss
Senic Haskins, June 13th, 1827. To this union was bom
eleven children, four daughters and seven sons. In 1844 he
removed to what is now Clinch County and lived here until
his death. He was elected a justice of the peace of the 105 2d
district in 1853, ^^^ served two years. In 1 856 he was elected
ordinary of the county and served until 1858. Mr. Burk-
halter was also married a second time, to Annie Belote, by
whom he had five children. His second marriage occurred
October 12th, 1848. Mr. Burkhalter died at his home in
Mud Creek, November i6th, 1862.

BURKHALTER, SHEROD, was bom in Clinch County,
March 24th, 1859, the son of James M. and Nancy Burk-
halter, and grandson of Richard H. Burkhalter. He was
raised on the farm and married Miss Sallie Corbitt, daugh-
ter of Allen Corbitt, October 3d, 1879. They had six chil-
dren. After the death of his first wife he married Lorena,
daughter of K. C. Smith, and by her has one child. He was
admitted to the bar in Florida November 5th, 1895, and
later coming back to Georgia, was admitted here. He has
been located at Homerville in the practice of law since
January nth, 1902. Colonel Burkhalter was commissioned
solicitor of the County Court, October 30th, 1909, and re-
commissioned August 28th, 191 1, for two more years. He
is an active member of the Baptist Church.

BYRD, CUTLER WASHINGTON, was bom in Pierce
County, October i8th, 1859. After living in Pierce and
Ware Counties some time, he removed to Clinch County,
where, after farming several years, he entered the mercantile
business with his son, Leon Byrd, in Homerville. In 1 9 1 2 he
was elected constable of the 1224th district, and about the
same time was appointed by the Ordinary as coroner of Clinch

History of Clinch County, Georgia 227

County, to succeed W. R. Findley, who had removed from
the county. In 19 14 Mr. Byrd removed to Ware County, but
in 1 9 1 6 returned to Clinch county, where he is farming near
Homerville.

CARTER, JESSE W., served as justice of the peace of
the 66ist district of Lowndes County for several years, being
elected in 1841 and 1846. In 1850 he was elected and com-
missioned a justice of the peace of the 105 2d district of Clinch
County, and served until 1856. In 1856 he was elected tax
receiver, and served one year. Mr. Carter lived in Clinch
County until the formation of Echols County, when he be-
came a citizen of that county. In the Civil War he was a
private of Co. "H" 29th Ga. Infantry. He married Priscilla,
daughter of Barzilla Staten, Sr., who died about 1846. Mr.
Carter, together with William S. Roberts and Jonathan
Knight, were the administrators of the estate of Mr. Staten.

CASWELL, ANDREW J., was born in Tattnall County,
February 7th, 1838. When the Civil War came on he joined
and served in Co. **A'* 29 Georgia, about three years. After
the war was over he came to Clinch County and settled at
Homerville, where he lived until his death. In 1867 he mar-
ried Miss Martha Smith, daughter of James C. Smith, and
by her had eleven children, nine sons and two daughters. For
several years he engaged in the mercantile business in Homer-
ville, afterwards purchasing a farm on the outskirts of town.
He constructed the famous Caswell mill-pond near town,
which is now owned by Hon. R. G. Dickerson. Mr. Caswell
served several years on the Board of Education, qualifying
November 22d, 1876. He served until 1890, being presi-
dent of the Board several years. Under P. M. Lee, Mr.
Caswell served as deputy clerk of the Superior Court. In
1892 he was elected county treasurer, defeating W. H. Gary
in the primary. Mr. Caswell received 218 votes and Mr.
Gary 191. In the general election he defeated Lewis Smith,
Third Party candidate, 314 to 173 votes. He was commis-

228 History of Clinch County, Georgia

stoned treasurer January 6th, 1893, and was just getting
acquainted well with the duties of the office when he was
taken sick. After a short illness he died August 11, 1893.
He was buried in the Homerville cemetery. His widow is
now living in Jacksonville, Florida, where two of her sons,
Drs. James M. Caswell and S. T. Caswell, practice medicine.

CASWELL, MADISON M., was born in Tattnall
County, on the Ohoopee River, February 23d, 1843. When
the Civil War broke out, he enlisted in Co. "A" 29th Georgia,
and served until the close of the war. In 1869 he came to
Homerville, where he resided until about 1890, when he re-
moved to Valdosta, where he now lives. Mr. Caswell mar-
ried Sarah, daughter of James C. Smith, and by her had sev-
eral children. In 1870 he was elected tax collector of Clinch
County, and was commissioned February 7th, 187 1. By suc-
cessive re-elections he was tax collector twelve years, which is
the longest any collector has held the office. In April, 1876,
he was appointed a jury commissioner, serving four years. In
1886 he was again appointed a jury commissioner, but re-
moved to Valdosta before his term expired. Under P. M.
Lee, Mr. Caswell served as deputy clerk of the Superior
Court.

COHEN, JOSEPH J., was born in Ohio about 1815, and
came to Clinch County about 1850. He was a school teacher
by profession. He married Zilpha, a daughter of John Wil-
liams, Sr., and his wife, Nancy, but after a divorce married
Mary Simpson and by her had a son, William Cohen. Mr.
Cohen was elected a justice of the peace of the 970th dis-
trict in 1857 and served two years. He was commissioned
surveyor of Clinch County January 12th, 1857, and served
one year. In the Civil War he enlisted in 2 2d Georgia Ar-
tillery. While in the army he contracted a sickness which ter-
minated in his death in 1863. His remains were brought
home and buried at Arabia Church. The grave is not marked
and its exact location in the cemetery is not known.

History of Clinch County, Georgia 229

CORBITT, MARTIN S., was bom near the site of Salem
Church, in the northern part of Clinch County, May 12th,
1840, the son of Newsom and PoUie (Smith) Corbitt. He
married Lenora W. Pafford, of Coffee County, November
26th, 1867, ^^^ by her had eleven children, viz.: Catherine
Imogene, Maryan M., Newton R., William Manning, Henry
Madison, Mastin Rabun, Frances L., Martha, Wealthy A.,
Rebecca V., and Levia Jane Corbitt. After his first wife died,
Mr. Corbitt married Miss Minnie Faircloth, who was a
native of Sampson County, N. C, August ist, 1899. To
them were born Duvon C, Frazier S., and W. J. Corbitt.
In the Civil War Mr. Corbitt served as a sergeant in
O'Steen's company. Towards the close of the war he was
permitted to return home on account of ill health. In 1868
he was elected tax collector of Clinch County, defeating
R. G. Dickerson, and served until 1871. In 1884 he was a
candidate for Ordinary and in a very hot race defeated
George Cornelius by one vote. He was commissioned Janu-
ary 13th, 1885, and served four years. In 1889 he was ap-
pointed a member of the Board of County Commissioners,
and served until 1891. With the formation of the Populist
Party in Clinch County, Mr. Corbitt joined it, and became
one of its leaders. He was its candidate for representative
in 1896 and 1898, and for Ordinary in 1900. On April ist,
1902, he removed from his old home in Clinch County to
Pearson, in Coffee County, where he lived quietly until his
death, eleven years later. He died on July ist, 19 13, and
was buried with Masonic ceremonies at Salem Church in
Clinch County. Mr. Corbitt was for years a member of the
Methodist Church, having his membership at the old Fussell
Church in Coffee County, later transferring it to the Pafford
Church. He became a member of Salem Church later. Mr.
Corbitt joined the Masons in 1867, and was a Master Mason
until his death. For about twenty years before his death he
was past master. He was greatly interested in his lodge and
his church, and often rode miles in order to attend. Appro-

230 History of Clinch County, Georgia

priate resolutions were adopted by Satilla Lodge No. 1 63 on
bis death.

CORBITT, NEWSOM, was bom in Tennessee in 1808,
the son of Isham Corbitt. With his father Mr. Corbitt re-
moved to Clinch County about 1840. He married PoUie, a
daughter of Rev. William Smith, and after her death again
married, and raised a large family of children. He was
elected a justice of the peace of the 586th district in 1853,
and again in 1861, and 1865. In 18 63 he was elected State
senator from the fifth district, defeating C. A. Smith. He
was elected on the "radical" ticket. In the senate he served
on the committees on Deaf and Dumb Asylum, Agriculture
and Manufactures, and Journal. He voted for the adoption
of the Fourteenth and Fifteenth Amendments to the Federal
Constitution. Mr. Corbitt lived to be about 75 years old.

CORBITT, RANDALL, was bom in Clinch County,
February 25th, 1856, the son of Richard R. Corbitt. He was
married to Miss Sarah Jane Geiger, December 12th, 1878,
by whom he had ten children. Nine are living. In 1912 Mr.
Corbitt was a candidate for county treasurer, and defeated
W. H. Hunter by one vote. He served one term ( 1 9 1 3-' 1 5 )
and was not a candidate for re-election. Mr. Corbitt lives
on his farm a few miles north of Argyle, where he has lived
for many years. He is a member of the Primitive Baptist
Church.

CORNELIUS, BENJAMIN, was bom in what is now
Wayne County, May nth, 1 801. Early in life he was married
to Miss Sarah Hopson, of Pulaski County, and by her had
five children, viz. : George, Cintha, Sabra, Martha Ann, and
Edward Cornelius. He lived in Pulaski County several years,
and about 1826 removed to Lowndes County and lived there
two years. After this he returned to Pulaski and lived there
until 1832, when he returned to Lowndes County. He was
elected a justice of the peace of the 66 ist district of Lowndes
County in 1833, ^^^ served a few years. About 1840 he re-

History of Clinch County, Georgia 23 1

moved to what is now Clinch but then Ware County, and
settled near the future Dame's mill-pond. Here he was
elected a justice of the peace of the 970th district in 1 841, and
in 1846. After his wife died in 1845, Mr. Cornelius moved
to the place now owned by Mr. S. D. Findley, near Homer-
ville.

In 1850 Mr. Cornelius was elected tax receiver of Ware
County and commissioned April ist, 1850, but the election
for county officers in the new county of Clinch coming on, he
resigned and was succeeded by Daniel E. Knowles. He was
elected the first tax receiver of Clinch County, in April, 1850,
and by continuous re-election, held this office until 1874, with
the exception of three years. During i856-'57, Jesse W.
Carter was receiver, and in 1862 the offices of receiver and
collector were combined by Legislative Act, and Timothy
Alderman elected to this office. In 1864 it was restored as
it formerly was and Mr. Cornelius was re-elected. In his
last race in 1872 he was opposed by J. R. Harris, but easily
defeated him. Mr. Cornelius died of paralysis at his home
near Homerville, June 26th, 1874, and was buried at Pros-
pect Church. He was a member of the Primitive Baptist
Church and had his membership at Prospect Church. Next
to John C. Jones, Mr. Cornelius served the Ipngest in one
office of any officer in the county.

CORNELIUS, BENJAMIN WILLIS, was bom in
Clinch County, near Homerville, December 7th, 1878, the
son of James B. and Martha E. (Gibbs) Cornelius, and a
great-grandson of Benjamin Cornelius, tax receiver. He was
raised on his father's farm and attended the DuBignon Insti-
tute at Homerville. In 1 904 he graduated from the Georgia
Normal and Business College at Abbeville, and in 1905 from
the Mercer Law School. He was admitted to the practice of
law at Homerville and practiced here until 19 13, when he
removed to Sherman, Texas, where he is practicing law now.
On November ist, 1909, he was appointed by the Governor

232 History of Clinch County, Georgia

as judge of the County Court of Clinch County for four
years from October 28th, 1909. When his term expired,
Judge Cornelius did not seek a re-appointment. He was mar-
ried May 25th, 191 1, to Mrs. Alice Riddle, a member of an
old Virginia family, who was previously a teacher of Elo-
cution in DuBignon Institute.

CORNELIUS, FERMAN F., was born near Homer-
ville, February 6th, 1883, the son of James B. and Martha
E. (Gibbs) Cornelius. He was raised on his father's farm
and attended the Homerville schools. In 1 904 he was nomi-
nated for surveyor of Clinch County over R. J. Jewell and
D. J. Smith, and commissioned October 17th, 1904. He
served by re-elections until January ist, 19 15, when he retired.
Mr. Cornelius was married June 20th, 1905 to Miss Court-
ney James, daughter of Rev. R. A. James, of this county, and
has two children. For the past several years he has been
holding a responsible position with the G. S. Baxter Co., at
Fargo.

CORNELIUS, GEORGE, was bom in Lowndes County,
March 29th, 1830, the son of Hon. Benjamin Cornelius, tax
receiver. He was raised in Ware County. He married in
December, 1855, Miss Mary Ann Lee, daughter of James
Lee, by whom he had thirteen children, viz. : James B.,
Franklin, Angeline, Mary, Lucy, J. R. E., Sallie, Bartow,
Martha, Clara and Minnie, also a son, George Jr., who
died in infancy. Mr. Cornelius settled in 1855 on the place
now owned by Mr. J. R. E. Cornelius, where he lived until
his death. His first office was that of justice of the peace of
the 1 06 1 St district, to which he was elected in 1853. He
served about a year. In April, 1862, he enlisted in Co. "G"
50th Georgia Infantry, and served until the close of the war.
Returning home, he went back to farming. In 1884 he was a
candidate for ordinary, but was defeated by M. S. Corbitt
by one vote. In 1888 he was again a candidate and defeated
Mr. Corbitt by 32 votes. He assumed charge of the office in

History of Clinch County, Georgia 233

January, 1889. In 1892 he was re-elected, defeating D. H.
Johnson in the priary 354 to 78 votes. In 1896 he was re-
elected, defeating Elisha Moore, his nearest opponent, by 20
votes in the primary. In 1900 he was defeated for re-elec-
tion by W. T. Howell by 134 votes. After his term of office
expired Mr. Cornelius lived on his farm a few miles from
DuPont, until his death, January 19th, 1907, age 77 years.
He was buried at the North cemetery. He was survived by
his wife and eight children.

CORNELIUS, GEORGE HOPSON, was born in Clinch
County, near Homerville, June 20th, 1880, the son of James
B. and Martha E. (Gibbs) Cornelius. After attending the
Homerville schools, he went to the Mercer Law School at
Macon, where he graduated. He was then admitted to the
bar in 1903. In November, 1904, he was married to Miss
Annie Jack, of Knoxville, Ga., by whom he has four chil-
dren. In 1904, Judge S. C. Townsend resigned as judge of
the County Court, and Colonel Cornelius was appointed to
the vacancy July 14th, 1904. He served as judge until Octo-
ber, 1905. In 1906 Judge Cornelius moved to St. Peters-
burg, Fla., and later to Tampa, where he is located at present,
practicing law.

CORNELIUS, MORRIS AUSTIN, was born in Clinch
County, near Homerville, March ist, 1888, the son of James
B. and Martha E. (Gibbs) Cornelius. After attending the
Homerville schools, he taught school in Clinch County and
several other counties, subsequently taking a teacher's course
at Valparaiso University, Indiana. In 19 13 he was appointed
clerk of the County Court, and in 19 14 was elected county
school superintendent of Clinch County, following the resig-
nation of Flem C. Dame. His term will expire January ist,
191 7. Ini9i5 Mr. Cornelius married Miss Winona Roberts,
of Celina, Texas.

COURSON, JOHN T., was born in Charlton County,
March 22d, 1848, the son of John L., and Sarah Courson.

234 History of Clinch County, Georgia

When the Civil War commenced he was too young to go to
the front but succeeded in enlisting in 1864, Co. "H" 6th
Georgia Reserves. In 1865 his parents removed to Clinch
County, and the next year he married Martha, daughter of
Zachariah Lee, by whom he had ten children, eight of whom
are living. In 1872 he was elected coroner of Clinch County,
and served one term. In 1878 he was elected sheriff of the
county and commissioned January 8th, 1879. He served
one term of two years. He returned to his farm near DuPont,
and was elected justice of the peace of the 1280th district in
1889, an office which he held about two years. He had pre-
viously served as justice of the 1280th district, being elected
in 1876. He removed about 1891 to Hahira, in Lowndes
County, where he has since resided. Mr. Courson is a mem-
ber of the Primitive Baptist Church, and is at present in the
mercantile business.

COWART, CHARLES, was born in 182 1. He lived in
this county until about 1880 when he removed to Florida,
where he died. His wife was Miss Nancy Tatum. They
had several children, among them being Elizabeth, John,
Phoebe, Eliza and Mary Cowart. In 1850 Mr. Cowart was
elected the first sheriff of Clinch County and served about a
year. On January 12th, 1857, he was commissioned tax
collector of Clinch County, serving one year.

COON, JOSEPH B., was born in Bradford County, Fla.,
August I ith, 1867, the son of Dr. Isaac S. Coon. His father
removed to Clinch County in 1873, and the son was given
the benefit of the country schools. In 1898 he was elected
surveyor of Clinch County, defeating J. L. Swearingen, his
Populist opponent, by 229 votes. He was re-elected in 1900
and 1902. In the primary of 1904 he was a candidate for.
Ordinary but was defeated. Soon after the primary, the nom-
inee for tax receiver, John C. Jones, was taken sick and died,
Mr. Coon announcing for the vacancy in the nomination. He
was elected over strong opposition. He assumed charge of

History of Clinch County, Georgia 235

the office January ist, 1905, and has since been re-elected at
each election. Mr. Coon was married to Miss Harriet Reg-
ister, daughter of Hon. Guilford A. Register, March 25th,
1902, and by her has two children. He is a member of the
Primitive Baptist Church.

CRUM, ROBERT MALLETTE, was born in Camden
County, June 6th, 1854, the son of Robert B. and Margaret
M. Crum. In 1862 his parents removed to near Homerville,
and Mr. Crum was a resident of Homerville until he died.
During 1 888-1 890 he was associated with his father in the
mercantile business in Homerville. In 1896 he was elected
justice of the peace of the Homerville district and commis-
sioned January 8th, 1897; he was re-elected in December,
1900 and December, 1904. The next year, 1905, he resigned
to become judge of the county court, to which he was com-
missioned October 19th, 1905, for four years. In 1909 Judge
Crum was by the Governor appointed a state inspector of
fertilizers, but a serious illness prevented him from taking up
the duties of the position. He died at the Crum House in
Homerville, December i8th, 1909, and was buried in the
Homerville cemetery. Judge Crum was a Mason and an Odd
Fellow. He was never married.

CULPEPPER, ALEXANDER HAMILTON, was
bom in Warrenton, Georgia, April ist, 1852. His original
name included the full name of A. H. Stephens, but he
thought the name would be too long and consequently
dropped the name "Stephens." He was admitted to the prac-
tice of medicine in 1886 and practiced medicine in Atlanta
until 1898. He removed to Homerville in March, 1898. Dr.
Culpepper has served as town councilman a number of years
and also as mayor of Homerville, in 1905, He was a candi-
date for representative in 19 10, but was narrowly defeated
by B. A. Harper. In 191 2 he was nominated by 1 1 votes over
M. H. Hilliard, his nearest opponent. He served through the
sessions of 19 13 and 19 14. The doctor was first married to

236 History of Clinch County, Georgia

Miss Jennie Reviere, in 1874, by whom he had two sons and
two daughters. After her death he married Miss Fannie
Hardage, of Warrenton, in 1886. By this marriage there are
five sons. Dr. Culpepper has served as county physician for
the past eight years and for eighteen years has been local
surgeon for the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad Company. He
is an active member of the Baptist Church at Homerville,
and is a deacon of that church. He has also been Sunday

School superintendent several years.

•

DAME, FLEM CHARLES, was bom in Clinch County
at the place now known as Lyken post office, February 14th,
1889, the son of George M. and Linnie (Hargreaves) Dame.
With his parents he came to Homerville at the age of six
months. He completed the DuBignon Institute high school
in 1 905 and graduated from the Georgia Normal College at
Abbeville in 1907. He taught in the public schools of Clinch,
Montgomery and Irwin Counties, and in Florida for a period
of several years, and in 19 10 was elected county school com-
missioner of Clinch County over four opponents. In May,
1 9 1 1 , Hon. W. T. Dickerson resigned as county school com-
missioner, which term had not expired, and Mr. Dame was
elected to the vacancy by the Board of Education. Mr.
Dame's regular term commenced January ist, 19 13, for
which he was nominated. He served until April, 19 14, when
he resigned to become post master at Homerville. He won
the latter position on the merit of making the highest marie
in a public examination in which there were a dozen competi-
tors. He is at present postmaster, and is editor and owner
of the ''Clinch County News," a newspaper established in
Homerville over twenty years ago. During the time he was
county school commissioner, the title of the office was changed
to county school superintendent by the Legislature. He also
served two terms as mayor of Homerville, 19 13 and 1914.
Mr. Dame married Lillian Hughes, daughter of Jeptha and
Catherine (Gibbs) Hughes, of near DuPont, in December,

History of Clinch County, Georgia 237

1910. They had two children, Chas. F., and Olive. He is a
member of the Baptist Church at Homerville.

DAME, GEORGE APPLING, was born in 1826, in
Montgomery County, Ga., the son of George Dame and
Catherine (Carter) Dame. He married Sarah Thigpen,
daughter of Melancthon Thigpen. To them were born five
children, viz: Arlia, who married Harris Tomlinson; George
M., William H., John T., and Charles E. Dame. Mr. Dame
removed to Clinch County in 1864. In 1874 he was elected
surveyor of Clinch County and commissioned January 14th,
1875 for two years. Mr. Dame died in 1882, and is buried
at Prospect Church near DuPont. His widow is yet living.

DAME, GEORGE MELANCTHON, was born June
28th, 1856, on Cobb's Creek in Montgomery County, Geor-
gia, the son of George A. Dame, Sr., and his wife, Sarah
Dame. At the close of the war he moved with his parents
to old Magnolia, in Clinch County. His education was
obtained in public schools of the time. He taught in the pub-
lic schools of Clinch County several years, and was married
to Linnie Adiline, daughter of John C. and Parthenia Har-
greaves, in 1881. T|heir children are: George Alva Dame,
who married Rita de Muro ; Herschel J. Dame, who married
Luelle Drawdy; Lula, who married H. M. Peagler; Leland
H. (single) ; Flem C. Dame, who married Lillian Hughes;
Olivia and Linnie Dame. His first wife dying in 1905, he mar-
ried Mabel Claire, daughter of Rev. H. C. Brewton, in 1907.
They have one ctiild, Louise Dame. Mr. Dame was a farmer
from 1 88 1 to 1890 at Lyken post office, but in the latter year
moved to Homerville, established himself in the mercantile
business, which he runs at the present time, with his brother,
the firm name being Dame Bros. He is a member of Homer-
ville Baptist Church, a deacon of that church, and a Mason.
For the past several years he has served as Chairman of the
Democratic Executive Committee of Clinch County. He was
twice a town commissioner of Homerville under the old char-

238 History of Clinch County, Georgia

ter and several times councilman under the new charter. He
served as county surveyor from 1881 to 1895, and in 1896
was appointed to succeed Hon. R. G. Dickerson as county
treasurer. He held the office about two months and in 1898 was
elected treasurer, defeating P. A. Register, his nearest oppo-
nent by eight votes. In 1900 he was re-elected treasurer, de-
feating John G. Griffis by 89 votes in the primary. At the
end of the last term, he retired and has not since aspired for
office. He has been a director of the Bank of Homerville
since its organization.

DAME, HERSCHEL JOHNSON, was bom in Clinch
County, May ist, 1883, the son of George M. and Linnie
(Hargreaves) Dame. He finished the DuBignon Institute in
1 90 1 and graduated from the Georgia Normal College at
Abbeville in 1903. In 1904 he graduated from the Mercer
Law School, and was president of his class. He then com-
menced the practice of law and practiced at Statenville and
Homerville. He was elected cashier of the Bank of Homer-
ville and served in this capacity until 1907. In 1908 he mar-
ried Luelle Drawdy, daughter of C. C. and Bettie (Smith)
Drawdy. They have one child, Elinor, living. Col. Dame
was, in 1907, appointed solicitor of the County Court, and
served one term of two years. After this he practiced law
at Homerville until 19 13, when he removed to Inverness,
Fla. Here he was appointed county attorney and also became
local counsel for the railroad company. In 191 5 there
occurred a vacancy in the office of school superintendent of
Citrus County, and Mr. Dame was elected to fill out the unex-
pired term. In 19 16 he was elected by the people for the
full term over two opponents by a large majority. Mr.
Dame established the first local telephone system in Homer-
ville, which he sold when he removed to Florida.

DAME, JOHN THIGPEN, was born in Montgomery
County in 1864, the son of George A. and Sarah (Thigpen)
Dame. In 1 865 his parents removed to Clinch County. He

History of Clinch County, Georgia 239

was first married to Miss Olivia Brown, of Savannah, by
whom he had two sons, Reva B. and Ray Dame. After
her death, in 1 895, he married Miss Kate Harwell, of Homer-
ville, Ky whom he had two daughters. Alma and Mary Dame.
His second wife dying in 1901, Mr. Dame married Miss
Emma Smith, daughter of Jos. P. Smith, of this county, in
1904. They had three children, Olney, Emma and Hoke S.
Dame. Mr. Dame was for several years a conductor on the
old Plant System of Railways, but in 1890 came to Homer-
ville and went into the mercantile business with his brother,
George M. Dame. This business is still running. In 1904
Mr. Dame was a successful candidate for Ordinary, defeat-
ing J. B. Coon and W. T. Smith. He took charge of the
office January ist, 1905, and in 1908 was re-elected, defeat-
ing C. H. Smith, and in 191 2, defeated N. N. Langdale. His
term of office expires January ist, 19 17. Mr. Dame has
served as a town councilman and a county registrar, and is a
director of the Bank of Homerville.

DAUGHARTY, JOHN F., was born in Clinch County
November 7th, 1872, the son of Frank and Emily Daugh-
arty. He was married May 8th, 1900, to Miss Emma Pat-
terson, daughter of Isham Patterson. He entered the turpen-
tine business and in this and other lines, has been very suc-
cessful. He was elected representative in 1904, defeating S.
C. Townsend and S. A. Pierce. He served through the ses-
sions of 1905 and 1906. He did not offer for re-election. Mr.
Daugharty lives at Edith on the Suwannee River, and has
extensive holdings in Clinch County.

DICKERSON, CHARLES H., was born in Clinch
County, November 4th, 1871, the son of Daniel and Mary
Ann Dickerson. He was raised on his father's farm near
Homerville, and married Miss Lelia R. Eatman, September
8th, 1892, by whom he had five children.. After her death
he married Miss Mattie Smith, a daughter of Lyman Smith
and a great-granddaughter of Lawrence Smith, a pioneer

24^ History of Clinch County, Georgia

of Clinch County. By his last marriage there are four chil-
dren. In 1908 he was elected tax collector of Clinch county,
defeating L. R. Register for re-electi(Hi. In 19 10 he was
re-elected, defeating John G. Griffis by 232 majority. In
1912, 1914 and 1 9 16 he was re-elected. Besides being tax
collector, Mr. Dickerson is a farmer. He is a Mason and a

Woodman of the World. His oldest son, H. C. Dickerson,
. • • •

is assistant cashier of the Bank of Hcmierville.

DICKERSON, DANIEL, was bom in Ware, now Clinch
County, December 27th, 1847, *he son of Robert G. and
Vicy (Newbem) Dickerson. He was raised on his father's
farm not far from where Homerville now is. He married
Miss Mary Ann Strickland, daughter of Charles and Lucre-
tia (Sirmans) Strickland, July 15th, 1868, and to them was
bom one son, C. H. Dickerson. In 1874, Daniel Dickerson
was elected coroner of Clinch County and commissioned Jan-
nary 14th, 1875 for ^o years. In the Civil War Mr. Dick-
erson joined Co. "C" 22d Georgia Artillery in 1864, although
only a youth. He died at his home near Homerville, Septem-
ber 14th, 1906, of paralysis, and was buried at Arabia
Church. He is survived by his widow and son.

DICKERSON, FRANKLIN, was bom In Clinch County,
September 12th, 1855, the son of Robert G. Dickerson and
Vicy Dickerscm. He was raised on his father's farm a few
miles north of Homerville, and at the age of twenty married
Miss Delilah Fiveash, daughter of Matthew Fiveash. He
was married December 23d, 1875. They had six children,
the oldest of whom is Isaac D. Dickerson. In 1888 Mr.
Dickerson was elected sheriff of Clinch County, over the
incumbent, B. E. Mattox. By continuous re-elections he
served until January ist, 1897. He did not seek re-election.
Previous to his election as sheriff he was a farmer, but about
1895 he entered the turpentine business with James M.
&nith. Their still was located about ten miles south of
Homerville. After a year or so of business, the partnership

History of Clinch County, Georgia 241

was mutually dissolved and Mr. Dickerson removed to
DuPont, where he spent the remainder of his life, dealing
principally in horses and mules. His death occurred at his
home in DuPont, January 31st, 19 10, of Bright's disease.
He is buried at Arabia Church.

DICKERSON, JAMES RANSOM, was born in Ware,
now Clinch County, December 8th, 1845, ^^^ oldest son of
Robert G. and Vicy (Newbern) Dickerson. He enlisted in
Co. "I" 4th Georgia Cavalry in 1863 and served until 1865.
He was married May 7th, 1867 to Miss Martha Smith,
daughter of John and Elizabeth (Studstill) Smith. They
have five children. Mr. Dickerson was elected coroner in
1868 and served three years. In 1872 he was appointed the
first ex-officio J. P. of the io6ist district and served five
years. In 1879 ^^ ^^^ elected justice of the 106 ist district
and served five years. In 1885 he was elected the first justice
of the 1389th district and served eight months. In 1887 he
was re-elected justice and in 1889, ^^^ resigned December
3d. In 1892 he was elected as a county commissioner and
served on the board until it was abolished. He was chairman
of the board during his term. In 1902 he was appointed ex-
officio J. P. of the 1389th district, which he held until 1915.
Mr. Dickerson is a member of the Primitive Baptist Church
and was clerk of Providence or Camp Branch Church twen-
ty-five years. He is a Mason. He also has served in other
minor capacities, such as constable and jury commissioner.

DICKERSON, MARCUS D., was born in Clinch County,
February 12th, 1880, the son of David and Malinda (Sir-
mans) Dickerson. He attended school as Jasper, Fla., and
at Abbeville, Ga., and graduated in June, 1901, from the
State University. After being admitted to the bar he settled
at Douglas for the practice of law and formed a law part-
nership with Col. W. C. Lankford. This partnership ex-
isted for several years. He was appointed Solicitor of the
City Court of Douglas, in 1902 and elected in 1904, and

242 History of Clinch County, Georgia

served until 1908. He was married January i8th, 1905, to
Miss Ethel Frink, at Douglas, by Rev. T. B. Stanford. In
1 9 10 Colonel DickerscHi was elected first solicitor-general of
the Waycross Circuit, and was, in 19 14, re-elected without
opposition. Colonel Dickerson is the first son of Clinch to
occupy this office.

DICKERSON, ROBERT G., was bom in South Caro-
lina, August ist, 18 17. His parents died while he was yet a
child, and he was brought to this section and reared by Ben-
jamin James. When the Indian war came on, Mr. Dicker-
son participated in it as a volunteer. He married in 1844,
Miss Vicy Newbem, a daughter of John and Argent
(O'Steen) Newbem. They had eleven children, viz.: James
R., Daniel, David, Franklin, Robert H., Thomas B., George
L., Mary Ann, who married Jonathan* O'Steen ; Elizabeth,
who married George L. Newbem ; Rachael, who married B.
G. James, and Sarah Ann, who married H. J. Solomon. Mr.
Dickerson was elected justice of the peace of the 584th dis-
trict of Ware County in 1845, ^^^ commissioned June nth,
1 845. In 1 852, he was elected tax collector of Clinch County,
and held this office one year. In 1861 he was elected a justice
of the Inferior Court of this county and held it four years.
On January i6th, 1869, he was commissioned the first ex-
officio J. P. of the 1224th district (Homerville) and served
until 1872. He qualified as a member of the Board of Edu-
cation May 5th, 1875, and served one year. He died Octo-
ber 2 1st, 1884, and was buried at Arabia Church.

DICKERSON, ROBERT G., JR., was bom in Clinch
County, October 27th, 1871, the son of David and Malinda
(Sirmans) Dickerson. The elder Dickerson died when the
son was eleven years old, and he worked on the farm until
he was sixteen, when his mother re-married. He obtained his
primary education in the local schools and after his mother
married, he taught school about five years and took a course
in the Florida Normal College at White Springs, Fla. In

History of Clinch County, Georgia 243

1892 he was appointed enrolling clerk in the Georgia senate.
The next year he read law in the office of Hon. W. M. Ham-
mond, of Thomasville. While thus studying law, the treas-
urer of Clinch County, A. J. Caswell, died, and Mr. Dicker-
son came back home and announced for the office. Although
opposed by Chas. F. Hitch, a strong and popular man, he
was elected by a majority of 307 votes. This was in 1893.
Soon after this he was admitted to the bar in Thomasville. In
1 894 he was re-elected treasurer for the full term. He opened
a law office in Homerville, and has since practiced there. He
was nominated for representative in the primary of 1896, and
resigned the treasurer's office October 12th, 1896. The same
day he was elected representative, defeating M. S. Corbitt,
his Populist opponent by 255 votes. In the sessions of 1896
and 1897, Colonel Dickerson served on the Finance, Educa-
tion, Penitentiary and General Judiciary Committees of the
House. It was during this session that he made a state-wide
reputation on the public school and convict questions. His
work on the finance committee in behalf of the public schools
is considered one of the best managed pieces of legislation
that has come before that committee. By hard and enthu-
siastic work he impressed every member of the committee
with the fact that the public schools of the State lacked money
to make them sustaining, and his labors were rewarded with
an additional appropriation of $400,000 for the common
schools. In 1898 he announced for the Democratic nomina-
tion for State senator, and was nominated by a majority of
442 votes over his nearest opponent. Col. S. L. Drawdy. In
the following general election he defeated W. A. Ecord, his
Populist opponent, by 232 votes. In 1901, when the County
Court of Clinch County was created, he was appointed solic-
itor and served by re-appointments until 1907. In 1902 he
was a member of the State Democratic Executive Commit-
tee, and has been chairman of the county executive commit-
tee several times. In 1 9 1 2 he was a member of the Georgia
delegation to the National Democratic Convention, which

244 History of Clinch County, Georgia

nominated Woodrow Wilson for President. In 19 14 Colonel
Dickerson defeated Dr. A. H. Culpepper for representative
by 388 majority. He served through the sessions of 191 5
and 1916. He figured very conspicuously in the passage of
the new prohibition law and the State Railroad legislation
during the 1 9 1 5 session, championing each measure. Colonel
Dickerson was married June 29th, 1897, to Miss Orie L.
Moon, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. James Nelson Moon, of
Scottsville, Va. The wedding took place at the home of the
bride and was in important social event. Congressman W. G.
Brantley was best man. Mr. and Mrs. Dickerson have four
sons, the oldest of whom is R. G. Dickerson, third, who is
studying law. Colonel Dickerson has been for several years
a director of the Bank of Homerville, and was in 19 13 elected
its president, succeeding H. J. Peagler, deceased. He has
also served in various minor positions, such as town council-
man and local school trustee and town clerk.

DICKERSON, WALTER T., was bom in Clinch County,
February 8th, 1878, the son of David and Malinda (Sir-
mans) Dickerson. After receiving a primary education in
the common schools he attended the Georgia Normal College
at Abbeville. Coming back home he taught school a few years
and was in 1899 elected county school commissioner, succeed-
ing C. H. Smith, resigned. Mr. Dickerson was just twenty-
one years old. He was admitted to the bar in 1901 and
formed a partnership with Jesse Grantham, which continued
a year or two, as Dickerson & Grantham. He was re-elected
county school commissioner successively until 191 1, when he
resigned. He was in 19 10 nominated State senator by a
majority of 434 over Senator F. B. Sirmans. He served
through the sessions of 191 1 and 1912. Ini9i3he was ap-
pointed solicitor of the County Court and re-appointed in
19 1 5, which he now holds. Colonel Dickerson is vice-presi-
dent of the Bank of Homerville, a position which he has held
since 1905. He married Miss Tobitha Pearson, a daughter

History of Clinch County, Georgia 245

of Benaje Pearson, of Coffee County, by whom he has a
daughter and two sons.

DRAWDY, SHERMAN LEE, was born in Charlton
County, April i8th, 1865, the son of John J. and Elizabeth
(Patten) Drawdy. In 1869 his parents moved to Clinch
County and settled near Homerville. He was raised up on
his father's farm, but having a desire to study law, he began
to study Blackstone and other standard commentaries at
home ; later he entered the law office of Hon. John C. Nichols
at Blackshear, where he read law. Returning home, he was
admitted to the bar at the October term, 1888, of Clinch
Superior Court. Later he was admitted to practice in the
higher courts. He has practiced law in Homerville since first
admitted and has never formed any law partnerships. He
was married January 24th, 1 898 to Miss Lucy Moore, daugh-
ter of Hon. Henry C. and Fannie C. (Smith) Moore. In the
primary of 1900 he was a candidate for representative and
defeated Hon. Rowan B. Johnson by 196 votes in the pri-
mary, and in the general election easily defeated his Populist
opponent, William Barlow. He did not offer for re-election.
In 1908 he was again elected representative, defeating Judge
S. C. Townsend after a very hot race. He served through
the session of 1909 and 19 10. It was during this session that
he introduced and passed the bill creating the new Waycross
Judicial Circuit. In 19 13 he was appointed judge of the
County Court of Clinch County for four years. He was
mayor of Homerville 1 907-1 909. He is a Mason and a
Woodman.

DUKES, EDWARD TAYLOR, was born in Thomas
County, Ga., December 12th, 1846, but was reared in Brooks
County. He joined the Confederate Army in May, 1864,
Co. **B" 1st Georgia Reserves, McLaw's Division. In 1865
he was mustered out. Two years later he came to Homer-
ville, where he engaged in the mercantile business. He was
a candidate for clerk of the Superior Court in 1872, and

246 History of Clinch County, Georgia

defeated David O'Quin and P. M. Lee. He was com-
missioned January i8th, 1873. He removed back to his old
home in Brooks County in 1874, shortly before his term
was out, leaving his deputies in charge of the clerk's office.
He engaged in the mercantile business in Quitman, where he
still lives. In 1870 Mr. Dukes was married to Miss Lucy E*
Wade, and by her had a son, Edward Scott Dukes, who died
upon reaching manhood. Mrs. Dukes died in 1871, and in
1876 he married Miss Arie Bryan, who died in 1881. One
daughter was bom to them, Nellie Leland Dukes. Ten years
after the death of his second wife, Mr. Dukes married Miss
Mattie E. Roundtree, of Quitman, and they have one daugh-
ter, Frances R. Dukes.

DuPONT, AUGUSTUS, christened John Peter Au-
gustus DuPont, Jr., was the son of Capt. J. P. A. DuPont
and wife, Eliza G. Nichols, and was born in Savannah, Ga.
September 17th, 1856, and with his family removed to Clinch
County about 1858. He was raised up at Lawton or DuPont,
and received a good education. He graduated from Roanoke
College, Salem, Va., with first honors and also from the
University Law School in Iowa in 1880. He soon returned
home, however, and settled down, and resigned the practice
of law. In 1 88 1, when DuPont was re-incorporated he was
named its mayor. He was appointed on the adjutant-general's
staff of the State militia, which he held for seventeen years.
In 1900 he was elected as commissioner from the State of
Georgia to the Paris Exposition, but was unfortunately taken
sick and prevented from going. In 1904, Hon. R. B. John-
son, representative from Clinch County, died, leaving a va-
cancy to which the County Democratic Executive Committee
nominated Mr. DuPont, who was elected at a special elec-
tion held July i6th, 1904. In the next election he did not
offer for re-election. Mr. DuPont served through the session
of 1904. After this he lived in retirement at the old family
home in DuPont, until his death in a local hospital in Savan-

History of Clinch County, Georgia 247

nah, Feb. 27th, 19 13, and was buried in Valdosta. He was
survived by a daughter, Eliza Gussie DuPont, who since her
marriage resides in Charleston, S. C.

ECORD, WILLIAM AUGUSTUS, was born in Lin-
coln County, Ga., September 2pth, 1846. When the Civil
War broke out he joined the Confederate Army in 1861,
joining Co. "G" 22d Georgia Regiment. He served through
the war, being wounded at the Battle of Sharpersburg. After
the war was over Mr. Ecord was mustered out at Appomat-
tox court-house, and came back to Georgia and settled in
Coffee County, where he married Miss Victoria Fussell,
December 23d, 1871. In 1875 he removed ito Homervillc
and entered the mercantile business. On January 30th, 1884,
Mr. Ecord was appointed by the Ordinary as clerk of the
Superior Court to succeed B. R. Johnson, who had removed
from the county. Soon afterwards he was elected at a special
election and commissioned March 4th, 1884, for the unex-
pired term. In 1885 ^^ was re-elected and by continuous re-
elections served until 1893. When the Populist Party wa&
formed in Clinch County, Mr. Ecord joined it, and was their
candidate for clerk in 1892, but was defeated by S. W. Reg-
ister, his Democrat opponent. In 1898 Mr. Ecord was the
Populist candidate for State senator, and in 1896 for clerk.
His first wife having died, Mr. Ecord married March loth,
1 901, Mrs. Eliza L. Mattox, daughter of Rev. Robert F.
Lanier and widow of Dr. L. C. Mattox. By his first wife Mr.
Ecord had four children, James Monroe, Atticus Haygood,
George Pierce and Lizzie L. Ecord, who married H. L. Mat-
tox. There are no children by his second wife. Mr. Ecord
is a member of the Homerville Methodist Church, and in
1900-6 was superintendent of the Sunday School. He has
also served as church steward and as recording steward. To-
gether with his wife, they own and operate the Ecord Hotel
in Homerville.

248 History of Clinch County, Georgia

FENDER, DAVID C, was bom about 1848, the son of
W. F. and Anna Fender. He was reared at Stockton, where
he lived until his death. He married Mattie, daughter of
Barzilla Staten, Jr., May 4th, 1881, and they had several
children. Mr. Fender was nominated for representative in
the primary of 1898 over R. B. Johnson and J. H. Inman,
and in the general election which followed, defeated Hon.
M. S. Corbitt, his Populist opponent by 215 votes. He
served through the sessions of 1898 and 1899 and was one
of the most faithful members of the House in attendance. He
was always present at each roll call. He did not offer for
re-election. His death occured at his home near Stockton,
October 14th, 1901. Mr. Fender was also a member of the
Board of Education for several years and was its president
four years.

FINDLEY, JOHN QUINCEY, was born in Tattnall
County, about 1820. He married Miss Lusina Findley, and
by her had one child, William R. Findley. He came to Clinch
County about 1850 and settled near the Echols County line,
on Cow Creek. He was elected coroner of Clinch County
in 1857 and commissioned January 13th, 1858. He served
until 1 861. When the Civil War came on he left his farm
and joined the Confederate Army, O'Steen's company, which
was organized at Homerville, in 1862. The next year he
died of pneumonia at Lynchburg, Va., while in the army.
He was survived by his widow and son. Mrs. Findley died
in 1909.

FINDLEY, STEPHEN DECATUR, was born in Jef-
ferson County, Fla., near Monticello, March i6th, 1843,
the son of Asa Findley. When he was yet a boy his father
removed to a place on Cow Creek in then Ware, later Clinch
but now Echols County. Here he grew to manhood and when
the Civil War came on he enlisted in Co. **G" 51st Georgia
Regiment from Echols County, in March 1862. After the
company arrived at the front, Mr. Findley, and a few of

History of Clinch County, Georgia 249

his comrades, were assigned to a company from Quitman
County, under command of Captatin John P. Crawford. He
was captured twice, the first time he was confined in Fort
Delaware twenty-four days and paroled. He got back in the
Confederate lines and re-enlisted. He was captured again,
just three days before Lee surrendered, and put in prison,
being released July 14th, 1865. Captain Crawford remarked
of young Findley just before the surrender that Mr. Findley
had answered to his name in the roll calls of the company
more times than any other man in the company. Returning
home, Mr. Findley married Miss Mary G. Fiveash, daugh-
ter of Matthew Fiveash and his wife, Mary Dame. They had
six children. He purchased a farm just above Homerville,
where he settled October 9th, 1873; here he lived a few
years, then moving to his present home a mile distant. In
1880 Mr. Findley was elected coroner of Clinch County and
commissioned January 13th, 1881, for two years. Later
he served as a constable of the 1224th district. He is now
living in Homerville engaged in the hotel business.

FINDLEY, WILLIAM RILEY, was born in Clinch
County, May 25th, 1857, the son of John Q. and Lusina
Findley. His father died in the war when the son was only a
few years old, and the son was thus deprived of a father's
help in his early age. Mr. Findley was reared on a farm,
and married Mrs. Emma Weaver, of Randolph County,
May 25th, 1882, by whom he has five children. About this
time Mr. Findley settled near Homerville, where he lived
until his removal to Berrien County in 19 10. He returned to
Homerville in 19 14, and now lives on a farm near town. He
was elected coroner of Clinch County in 1904, and com-
missioned October 1 7th, 1 904. By continuous re-elections he
served until his removal from the county in 19 10.

GAINES, WILLIAM, came to Clinch County during the
Civil War and settled in the Magnolia district. He was a
native of Ireland, where he was born in 1824. His wife.

250 History of Clinch County, Georgia

Ellen, was a native of Canada, where she was bom in 1829.
They had four children, Mary A., John G., William F., and
Helen J. Gaines, who were bom ift 1854, 1857, 1863 and
1867, respectively. Mr. Gaines was elected county surveyor
in 1868 and served until 1871. He later removed to Chat-
ham County, where he died.

GARY, WILLIAM H., was born in Hancock County,
June 14th, 1834. He was married to Miss Mary Hannah,
and by her had three children. Previous to and during the
war, he was an employee of the Central of Georgia Railroad.
From here (Savannah) he removed to Florida, locating at
EUabelle, where he entered the lumber business. He devoted
some few years to this business, but as a financial venture did
not succeed. He lost his wife there and shortly afterwards
came to Homerville. Here he married Mrs. Elizabeth E.
Hodges, widow of John W. Hodges, January 8th, 1880.
There were no children by his second marriage. Mr. Gary
lived a quiet life in Homerville, attending to his farm and
such other work. He was a member of the Baptist Church
and was very instrumental in organizing this church at
Homerville. He served as church deacon, church clerk and
Sunday School superintendent. He served several years on
the board of jury commissioners, and when in 1889 the
Board of County Commissioners was created, he was named
on it, and was subsequently chosen as chairman of the Board.
He held the office of county treasurer about a month follow-
ing the death of Treasurer Henry C. Moore, in 1891. He
was appointed treasurer by the Ordinary June 23d, 1891. He
was a candidate for treasurer in 1892 for the full term, but
was defeated by A. J. Caswell; also a candidate in 1896. He
also was mayor of Homerville three or four years, and was a
town commissioner under the old charter. His death oc-
curred Sept. 14th, 1 90 1, age 67 years. He had previously
been suffering of bone cancer in his head and this was the
cause of his death. He was buried in the Homerville ceme-

History of Clinch County, Georgia 25 1

tery. Resolutions of the Baptist Church speak loud praise
justly due him.

GIBBS, AUSTIN JAMES, was born in Clinch County
four miles south of DuPont, December 23d, 1867. He was
raised on a farm and went to school about six months. He
commenced clerking in a country store at the age of fifteen,
acquiring most of his education in that way. He was married
to Miss Lillie Harris, daughter of Joseph Harris, of DuPont,
June 20th, 1895. There are no children. Mr. Gibbs enter-
ed the employ of the railroad company and was agent at
DuPont from May 11, 1902, until December 15, 1905, and
resigned that position to enter the service of the G. F. & A.
Railroad. He served as agent for that road at Quincy, Fla.,
and Bainbridge, Ga., and as car accountant. He resigned this
position to accept the management of the naval stores busi-
ness of Cranford-Lastinger Co., at Sirmans, Ga., which posi-
tion he held until he was elected clerk of the Superior Court.
He was nominated in the primary over Hon. S. W. Register,
and took charge of the office January ist, 1909. He served
about two months as deputy under A. O. Register, his prede-
cessor. He has since, by continuous re-elections, served as
clerk, being re-elected in 1916.

GIBBS, GEORGE DAME, was born in Clinch County,
June 25th, 1858, the son of John and Charity (Dame)
Gibbs. He was raised upon a farm and in 1879 married Miss
Angie Dampier, daughter of James Dampier, of this county,
by whom he had four children. He was elected coroner of
Clinch County in 1890, and commissioned January loth,
1 891. He was taken sick with typhoid fever and died at his
home above DuPont, November loth, 1891, survived by his
wife and four children. His widow married John J. Drawdy
in 1896.

GIDDENS, DUNCAN, was born in North Carolina in
1 8 10, and came to this State a young man. His first wife's
name was Savility, by whom he had several children. After

252 History of Clinch County, Georgia

her death he married a Joyce. He was commissioned a jus-
tice of the Inferior Court January 24th, 1854, and served
two years. He did not hold any other office. Mr. Giddens
lived in the io6ist district, and his death occurred September
8th, 1881.

GIDDENS, MOSES, was bom in Appling, later Ware
County, in 182 1. In 1840 he married Miss Pollie Mathis, by
whom he had ten children. He came to what is now Clinch
County about 1836, and lived here for about forty years,
afterwards moving to Coffee County, where he died. In 1853
he was elected tax collector of Clinch County, and served one
year. When the war broke out, Mr. Giddens joined Co. "G"
29th Georgia Regiment, which was organized in Berrien
County. He served through the war. His death occurred in
January, 1906, age 85 years.

GRIFFIN, WILLIAM W., was bom in South Caro-
lina in 1809, and early in life came to this State, where he
lived until his death with the exception of a few years in
Florida. He became an early convert to Methodism and was
subsequently licensed to preach. He was the first stationed
preacher of the M. E. Church at Thomasville. Later he
joined the Florida conference and served as a presiding elder
for a period, making the trip by buggy to Cedar Keys, thence
by boat to Key West, where he was stationed a short while.
Later he was transferred back to the Georgia conference
and was stationed at Homerville, where his daughter, Mrs.
L. A. Sirmans, was living. Here he lived several years, hold-
ing the position of railroad agent awhile. In 1868 he was
elected Ordinary, defeating J. L. Sweat. He served in this
capacity three years. Subsequently Rev. Griffin, with his
son-in-law. Colonel Sirmans, and their families, removed to
Stone Mountain, in DeKalb County, where he died in 1879.
His wife, Ann, was bom in 18 16, and survived him.

GRIFFIS, WILLIAM, was bom in Ware, now Clinch
County, March nth, 1841, the son of Juniper Griffis. He

History of Clinch County, Georgia 253

was raised on his father's farm, and when the Civil War
came on he joined the Confederate Army at Waynesville,
Ga., joining Co. **!" 4th Georgia Cavalry. He was captured
in the winter of 1863, at Fort Gates, Fla., from which time
until the close of the war he was held a prisoner by the Fed-
erals. He was married March 12th, 1867 to Miss Olive
Sears, daughter of Hiram Sears, of Coffee County, by whom
he had three daughters and two sons. He was elected justice
of the peace of the io6ist district in 1875, and served two
years. In 1886 he was elected tax collector of Clinch County,
and commissioned January 8th, 1887. He served two years.
In the fall of 1888 he removed to Ware County and settled
at Millwood, where he lived and farmed until his death.
May 25th, 1915.

HENDERSON, JOHN S., known also as "Jack" Hen-
derson, was born in this State May 9th, 1 807. He was among
the first settlers of Ware County, and lived there until 1855,
when he removed to Clinch County. He settled in Clinch,
on the old T. F. Morgan place, but later moved to near
Homerville, where Ee died. He was first married to Miss
PoUie Fulwood, a sister of Hon. James Fulwood, of Ware
County, and by her had three sons, William, John and Ran-
dall Henderson. After his first wife's death, Mr. Henderson
married in February, 1840, Miss Sallie King, a sister to
Judge Ziba King. By this marriage they had the following
children; Duncan J., Marcus F., James C, Alfred, Belinda,
Nancy, who married Joel G. Griffis; Julius S., Martha, who
married C. H. Smith; Simon W., and Bartow A. Hender-
son. Mr. Henderson was a justice of the Inferior Court of
Ware County, 1835-7, and clerk of the Superior and Inferior
Courts of Ware County, 1836-8. He served as representa-
tive from Ware County in the sessions of 1844 and 1845.
After his removal to Clinch, he was elected to the Inferior
Court in 1858, and served three years. After this he lived a
retired life on his farm near Homerville until his death,

254 History of Clinch County, Georgia

March 25th, 1883. His remains were buried in the Homer-
ville cemetery beside those of his wife, who died in July, 1 879.

HITCH, SIMON W., was bom in Jones County, in 1 848,
the son of Sylvanus and Ann A. (Nichols) Hitch. When his
father settled at Homerville, about the close of the war,
young Hitch also came, and served awhile as clerk of the
County Court under Judge Z. King during 1866-7. In 1870
he was admitted to the bar at Homerville and practiced law
at Homerville several years until his removal to Waycross,
where he lived until he died. In 1871, he was at the age of
twenty-three elected solicitor-general of the Superior Courts
of the Brunswick Circuit, and held this office ten years. Col.
Hitch remained in the active practice of law until 19 10,
when he retired on account of age and health. Col. Hitch
died in Waycross, September i8th, 19 15, and was buried
there. He was married and had several children.

HITCH, CHARLES F., was bom June 30th, 1855, in
Jones County, the son of Sylvanus and Ann (Nichols) Hitch.
He was reared principally in Homerville, and when a young
man entered the mercantile business in Homerville. He mar-
ried Miss Alice Mattox, daughter of H. P. Mattox, and by
her had one child, Ruth Hitch. On the death of A. J. Cas-
well, county treasurer, Mr. Hitch was appointed county
treasurer August 21st, 1893, by the county commissioners.
At the succeeding special election he was defeated by Robert
G. Dickerson for the unexpired term. Mr. Hitch served as
treasurer about one month. His death occurred June 30th,
1894, and he was buried in the Homerville cemetery. His
widow married D. O. Ratliff in 1896, and is now living in
Bartow, Fla.

HODGES, ARCHIBALD, was bom in Liberty County,
November 5th, 1804. He came to what is now Clinch
County about 1850 and settled here. He married Fannie,
daughter of George W. Delk, and by her had several chil-
dren, one of them, Edward C. Hodges, still living in this

History of Clinch County, Georgia 255

county. Mr. Hodges, Sr., was elected a justice of the peace
of the 1 06 1 St district in 1851 and held the office two years.
On January 24th, 1854 he was commissioned a justice of the
Inferior Court, which he held four years. Mr. Hodges died
October 25th, 1862, at his home in the io6ist district and is
buried at Arabia Church. He was a brother of John W.
Hodges, who came to Clinch in 1853.

HOWELL,- WILLIAM T., was born in Pulaski County,
in 1847, ^^^ with his parents came to Clinch County at an
early age. He joined the Confederate Army in 1864, Co.
**H" 4th Georgia Cavalry, and served until the close of the
war. He married Salina, daughter of Judge John L. Mor-
gan, February nth, 1874, and by her had several children.
After her death he married a daughter of P. W. Courson.
In the primary of 1900 Mr. Howell defeated George Cor-
nelius for Ordinary, and was elected in the general election
following, defeating his Populist opponent, Martin S. Cor-
bitt. He assumed charge of the office January ist, 1901, and
served four years, and did not seek re-election. He was ap-
pointed on the county board of tax assessors in 19 14 and
served until January ist, 191 6. His death occurred at his
home in the 586th district, January 20th, 1916, and was
buried at the Fender graveyard.

HUNTER, WILLIAM HENRY, was born in Clinch
County, November i8th, 1867, ^^^ was raised on a farm.
He married Miss Mary Jane David, daughter of J. J. David,
formerly of Clinch, but then of Lowndes County. To them
were born nine children, eight of whom are living. Mr.
Hunter was for many years employed by the G. S. Baxter
Company at Fargo, in this county, but in 1 9 1 1 removed to
Homcrville and bought a farm and entered the grocery
business. In 191 2 he was a candidate for county treasurer,
but was defeated by Randall Corbitt by one vote in the pri-
mary. In 1 9 14 he was again a candidate, and was elected,
defeating George M. Bennett by forty-six votes. He took

256 History of Clinch County, Georgia

charge of the office January ist, 1915. His term of office
will expire January ist, 191 7, after which the treasurer's
office is abolished by Legislative Act, passed in 19 15.

HARPER, BENJAMIN A., the fourth son of Samuel
S. and Sarah C. (Sellers) Harper, was born in Bucksville,
S. C, February loth, 1869; with his parents he came to
Clinch County at an early age. He married Mrs. Sarah J.
(Carmichael) Kirkland, widow of Franklin D. Kirkland, in
1891. He served a short while as constable of the 1389th
district and four years as postmaster at Argyle. In 1899 he
was commissioned justice of the peace of the 1389th district
ancf served until 19 10, when he resigned. In the primary of
19 10 he was elected representative from Clinch County, by
forty-seven majority over David J. Smith and A. H. Cul-
pepper. He served through the sessions of 1911-12. He
was licensed as local preacher of the Methodist Episcopal
Church, South, in 191 2, and served four years as supply for
Glenmore charge. He is a Mason and Woodman of the
World.

HUGHES, FRANCIS MARION, was bom in what is
now Clinch County, September 28th, 1849, ^^e son of Wil-
liam and Nancy Hughes. He was married and had several
children. He was reared upon his father's farm and farm-
ing was his life-long occupation. In 1892 he was elected on
the Board of County Commissioners and served two years.
In 1898 he was appointed on the Board of Education and
served as its president the last nine years of his life. His death
occurred at his home near DuPont, August loth, 1913, and
he was buried at the North cemetery.

HUGHES, JOHN FRANKLIN, was bom in Clinch
County, July 20th, 1875, the son of Jeptha and Catherine
(Gibbs) Hughes, and a grandson of William Hughes, a
pioneer citizen of Clinch. Mr. Hughes was reared on his
father's farm near DuPont, and was married about 1904 to
Miss Mary Register, daughter of O. P. Register, by whom

History of Clinch County, Georgia 257

he has one son. In 1902 he was nominated for county treas-
urer, and elected over John G. Griffis by 202 votes. He was
re-elected in 1904 and 1906, and retired from the office Jan-
uary 1st, 1909. He removed to Homerville during his incum-
bency as treasurer, and entered the grocery business. He
operated this until 1908, when he was elected cashier of the
Bank of Homerville. He held this position until 191 1, when
he resigned and removed to St. Mary's, Ga., where he ac-
cepted the same position with the Bank of Camden County,
which he still holds.

HUTTO, ISAAC D., was bom in South Carolina in 1818
and came to Georgia when a young man. He married Sarah,
daughter of Joshua Lee. They had no children, but adopted
a son, Jackson Hutto, who was a son of James Newman, de-
ceased. Mr. Hutto early in life joined the Primitive Baptist
Church and was ordained a minister. He served Prospect
Church as its pastor many years. In 1855 he was elected tax
collector of Clinch County and re-elected the next year, serv-
ing until 1857. He lived to be about eighty years old, and
died at his home above DuPont. He is buried at Prospect
Church.

HUXFORD, FOLKS, was bom in Coffee County, Novem-
ber 1 6th, 1893, the son of Calvitt and Kansas (Drawdy)
Huxford. In 1906 his parents removed to Homerville. In
1 9 10 he commenced working in the office of the clerk of the
Superior Court, and worked there several years. In 19 15 he
was appointed constable of the 1224th district, and the same
year was elected the clerk of the Board of County Commis-
sioners in September, which position he still holds. He was
also appointed one of the county registrars in 19 16, and is
deputy clerk of the County Court under Judge S. L. Drawdy.
He married February 21st, 19 13, Miss Orie L. Kirkland,
daughter of D. E. and Meddie (Register) Kirkland, and by
her has one daughter. He is a member of the Methodist
Church. He served as acting postmaster at Homerville for

258 History of Clinch County, Georgia

about six months following the death of Postmaster D. E.
Kirkland in November, 19 13.

JEFFORDS, JERRY M., was bom in Ware County,
about 1845, ^^d w^* married to Mary Herren, daughter of
Levi Herren, Sr., about 1868. He was appointed constable
of the 1 06 1 St district in 1873 and served a few years, and
in 1880 was elected sheriff of Clinch County, and commis-
sioned January 13th, 1881. He was re-elected sheriff in 1882
and 1884. Subsequently removed to Ware County where
he died about 1908. He had a son, Harmon V. Jeffords, Jr.

JACKSON, FRANCIS MARION, was bom in Alabama,
July 15th, 1825. When the Mexican War commenced, he
enlisted in the army and saw active service in that war. Later
he came and settled in Clinch County, and when the Civil
War broke out Mr. Jackson was very instmmental in organ-
izing companies in Clinch County for service in the Confed-
erate Army. He was elected captain of Co. "H" 29th
Georgia, and served as second sergeant in Co. "I" 4th Geor-
gia Cavalry. After the war he was elected justice of the
peace of the 586th district and served about a year. In 1892
Captain Jackson was elected on the Board of County Com-
missioners and served two years. He lived to the ripe age of
87 and died October 12th, 19 12. He was buried at the
Lovejoy graveyard. Captain Jackson was counted as one of
the county's ablest and most intelligent men of his day, and
was an excellent officer during the war. He married Miss
Mary Griffin, daughter of Noah H. Griffin, of Clinch
County, and they raised a large family of children.

JOHNSON, BRYANT R., was born in Clinch County in
1 861, the son of Rowan B. and Alief (Tomlinson) John-
son. He was raised on his father's farm, and at the age of
twenty-one was elected clerk of the Superior Court, and com-
missioned January 9th, 1883. The office in those days was
not such a remunerative office, consequently after holding
office about a year, Mr. Johnson removed from the county.

History of Clinch County, Georgia 259

leaving Isbin Tomlinson, his deputy, in charge. He subse-
quently lived in Macon and was a railroad employee. He
married Martha Ann, daughter of John Moore, and had
several children.

JOHNSON, DAVID, was bom in this State, January
29th, 1802, the son of David Johnson, Sr., and was one of
the first settlers of the county. He took an active part in the
Creek Indian war of 1836-38, and commanded a company in
this war, and from this he earned the title of "General." He
married Miss Nancy Burnett, and by her had: Rowan B.
Johnson, Martha (drowned), David H. Johnson, Joseph
B. Johnson, Bryant Johnson, Melvina, who married Harris
Sirmans ; William Johnson, Cassie and Eliza, who married
Joseph Jones. Bryant and William Johnson were killed in
the Civil War. When the first election for justices of the
Inferior Court was held for the new County of Clinch in
1850, General Johnson was elected one of the justices. In
1 86 1 he was again elected, but was succeeded in the following
September by R. G. Dickerson. General Johnson died April
loth, 1879, ^8^ 77 years, survived by his wife and several
children.

JOHNSON, DAVID H., was bofn in what is now Clinch
County in 1835, the son of General David Johnson. He
married Rebecca Tomlinson, daughter of Harris Tomlinson,
Sr., about 1856, and by her had several children, all daugh-
ters except one, James T. Johnson. He was elected a justice
of the peace of the 586th district in 1864; again in 1865 and
1869. I^ 1874 he was elected sheriff of Clinch County and
commissioned January 14th, 1875. He was re-elected in
1876 anJ served until 1879. On February 14th, 1891 he
was commissioned justice of the peace of the 1280th district
and served until 1897. April 22d, 1902, he was commis-
sioned ex-ofiicio justice of the peace of the same district and
served until his death, which occurred at his home near
DuPont, April 4th, 1903.

26o History of Clinch County, Georgia

JOHNSON, ISHAM R, was bom in Liberty County,
about 1810, and settled in this section about 1845. He was a
brother-in-law of Elijah Mattox, Mr. Mattox marrying
Lavinia Johnson. He was commissioned a justice of the
peace of the 719th district of Ware County March loth,
1848, also on March 31st, 1849, ^^^ March ist, 1852. He
was elected one of the first justices of the Inferior Court of
Clinch County in 1850, serving until 1853. Mr. Johnson
married Miss Martha Darsey, of Liberty County, and had
several children. He lived in the southern part of the county.
He died about 1875.

JOHNSON, JOSEPH B., was bom in Ware, now Clinch
County, in 1832, the son of General David Johnson. He
lived in this county all his life. He was elected surveyor of
Clinch County in 1854 and re-elected in 1856, serving until
1857. ^^ ^he Civil War he was a private in Co. "H" 29th
Georgia Infantry, and served throughout the war. / He died
October 12th, 1881. Mr. Johnson was never married.

JOHNSON, RILEY, was bom in what is now Clinch
County in 1 847, the son of John J. Johnson, for many years
a resident of Homerville. He married Miss Lizzie Tison, of
Homerville,, June 9th, 1867, and by her had several children.
At the age of twenty-one he was elected county treasurer of
Clinch County, defeating James C. Cooper. His official
bond for $4,000 is dated August 29th, 1868. He soon re-
signed the office, and Allen Smith was appointed in the fol-
lowing November for the unexpired term. In later years
Mr. Johnson removed to Florida, where he died.

JOHNSON, ROWAN B., was bom in Lowndes County,
November 29th, 1830, the son of General David Johnson.
When he was only three years old his father removed to
Ware (now Clinch) County, where he was raised to man-
hood. When he was only sixteen years of age he was elected
captain of the militia district at a time when it was regarded
as a local distinction. In 185 1 he was elected a justice of the

History of Clinch County, Georgia 261

peace of the 970th district and served about one year. He
married in 1847, Miss Alief Tomlinson, daughter of John
Tomlinson, Sr., by whom he had two children, one of whom,
B. R. Johnson, was in 1882 elected clerk of the Superior
Court. In 1862 Mr. Johnson, Sr., enlisted in Co. **B" 2d
Georgia Regiment, western division, and was commissioned
captain. Returning home in 1865 ^^ was elected a justice of
the Inferior court, and served until that court was abolished.
In 1862 Mr. Johnson's wife died, and he married Miss Caro-
line Floyd, daughter of Jason Floyd, of Liberty County, by
whom he had three children. His second wife dying in 1872,
Mr. Johnson married Mrs. Emaline Clifton, widow of Wm.
H. Clifton and daughter of George Dame, Sr. She died and
he married Miss Carrie Day, of DuPont, who survived him.
Mr. Johnson was elected to the Legislature four times and
was as many times defeated for it. He was first elected in
1884, defeating: M. M. Caswell. In 1886 he was defeated
by John C. Humphreys for re-election. In 1889 he was
elected at a special election to fill out the unexpired term of
James P. Mattox, deceased. In 1890 he was defeated for
re-election by his Populist opponent. Dr. L. C. Mattox. In
1892 he was again elected, defeating John C. Humphreys
and Ellas Griffis in the primary and E, C. Hodges, Third
Party, in the general election. In 1898 he was defeated in
the primary by D. C. Fender, and in 1900 by Col. S. L.
Drawdy. In 1902 he was elected, defeating Col. S. C. Town-
send in the primary. He took his seat and served through the
session of 1902 and 1903, and when the Legislature convened
in 1904 he was taken sick, which proved to be his last illness.
He died June 19th, 1904, and was burled at Prospect Church.
He was seventy-four years old at his death. He was a very
familiar figure in the legislative halls and was an able, and
conservative legislator.

JONES, JOHN C, was born in Sampson County, N. C,
January 25th, 1852, and early in life his parents removed to

262 History of Clinch County, Georgia

Wilcox County, Ga. From there they removed to Clinch
County when John C. Jones was sixteen years old. In his
youth he happened to a misfortune by being bitten by a snake,
by which he came near losing his life. It left him a cripple
the remainder of his life, completely losing the use of his legs.
In 1880 he was elected tax receiver of Clinch County and
commissioned January 13th, 1881. He was continuously re-
elected over all opposition until his death. He had just been
re-nominated for the office in 1 904, when he died. He mar-
ried in 1894 to Mrs. Fannie C. Moore, widow of Henry C.
Moore, and daughter of Jesse Smith, and by her had two
children, John T. Jones and Fannie L. Jones. His first wife
having died, Mr. Jones married 'in 1902, Mrs. Ellen D.
O'Quin, widow of E. W. O'Quin, and daughter of James
C. Smith. Mr. Jones died at his home in Homerville June
5th, 1904, of paralysis, and was buried in the Homerville
cemetery. He was a very consistent member of the Homer-
ville Baptist Church for many years, and was for several
years prior to his death clerk of the church.

JOYCE, HENRY, was bom in Ware, now Clinch
County, June 26th, 1831, the son of Martin Joyce. He mar-
ried Rebecca, daughter of Moses Tomlinson, Sr., and by her
had several children. On January loth, 1854, he was com-
missioned tax collector of Clinch County and served one
year. Mr. Joyce lived in the Mud Creek district and was a
member of the Primitive Baptist Church. He died at his
home March 21st, 1907, and is buried at Arabia Church.

KIGHT, JAMES M., was born in Ware County, Septem-
ber 9th, 1835, ^^^ so^ ^f Hiram and Sallie (Smith) Kight.
He was raised in what is now Clinch County and since 1858
has been living on his present farm about three miles South
of Argyle. He was married in 1857 to Mary Strickland,
daughter of Aaron Strickland, by whom he had five children.
His first wife dying about 1900, Mr. Kight married Miss
Adilene Kight, daughter of Thomas Kight, by whom he has

History of Clinch County, Georgia 263

one son. In 1870 Mr. Kight was elected coroner of Clinch
County and commissioned February 7th, 1871 for two years.
In the Civil War Mr. Kight served in the Confederate Army
from 1862 to the close, in Co. **K" 26th Georgia Regiment.
On July 2d, 1885, Mr. Kight was commissioned ex-officio
justice of the peace of the 1389th district, an office which he
held for thirteen years. When the Populist Party was formed
in Clinch County, Mr. Kight joined them, and served as a
Populist on the board of registrars of Clinch County for six
years, beginning 1898.

KING, ZIBA, was bom in Appling County, later Ware,
November 29th, 181 8. After Clinch was created he came
to this county where he resided until 1868, when he removed
to Manatee County, Fla. He was elected justice of the peace
of the 970th district and commissioned August 24th, i860,
and served four years. On May loth, 1866 he was com-
missioned judge of the first County Court of Clinch County,
and served about two years, when he removed to Florida.
Judge King first settled in Manatee County, later in DeSoto
County, Florida, accumulating a nice fortune there in the
cattle business. He was married May 28th, 1868, to Fannie
A. Tanlcy, but subsequently divorced, and later married Miss
Florida Brewer, July 24th, 1870, by whom he had eight chil-
dren. His death occurred March 7th, 1901, he was survived
by his wife and children and his remains were buried in the
cemetery at Fort Ogden, Fla. A daughter of Judge King
married J. E. T. Bowden, who in 19 16, was candidate for
Congress from the eleventh district of Georgia..

KIRKLAND, JOHN COBB, was born in Appling
County, June 27th, 1824. He participated in the Indian war
of 1836-38, although only a lad, and at the age of twenty-
two was elected justice of the peace of the 970th district, then
in Ware County. In 1850, when Clinch County was created,
Mr. Kirkland was elected first clerk of the Superior and In-
ferior Courts. He was commissioned April 12th, 1850, and

264 History of Clinch County, Georgia

served until 1 852. In 1 854 he was elected justice of the peace
of the 1 06 1 St district being re-elected in 1857, 1861 and
1865. He was one of the first settlers of Homerville, and in
1872 was commissioned ex-officio justice of the peace of the
Homerville district. He was reappointed in 1876, 1880,
1885, 1889, ^^93) 1S97 ^^^ 1901, and held the office at the
time of his death. Mr. Kirkland was first married to Miss
Elizabeth Nettles, daughter of Martin and Cassie (New-
bem) Nettles, and by her had five sons: Frankh'n D. Kirk-
land, James Seaborn Kirkland, William G. Kirkland, John
B. Kirkland and Joseph G. Kirkland. His first wife having
died, Mr. Kirkland married Miss Vasti Stafford, daughter
of Edmund Stafford, March 31st, 1872. By this marriage
he had nine children, viz. : David E. Kirkland, Ada, Delia,
Zilla, Edmund S., Emma, Kizzie, Berry C. and Thomas M.
Kirkland. Mr. Kirkland died on his 80th birthday, June 27th,
1904, after an illness of about two weeks, and was buried in
the Homerville cemetery. His widow died in 1907. Mr.
Kirkland had never been sick from the time he was a boy until
his last illness, and his strength and vigor was maintained
despite his advancing old age.

XIRTON, SAMUEL R., was born in Georgetown, S. C,
July 25th, 1867. His father died when he was about two
years old, and was probate judge of his county at the time.
In 1886 Mr. Kirton graduated from the South Carolina Mil-
itary Academy in Charleston, with the degree of B.S. After
being employed with railroad companies for some time as
civil engineer, etc., he came to Clinch County in 1892, and
was elected county surveyor in 1894. He was re-elected in
1896 and served until January ist, 1899. He married Miss
Nora Smith, daughter of Charlton H. and Martha (Hender-
son) Smith, in September, 1897, and they had several chil-
dren. Mr. Kirton was for several years employed by the G.
S. Baxter Co. at Fargo, but for the last year or so has lived
at Argyle, near where his farm is. He is a member of the

History of Clinch County, Georgia 265

board of tax assessors of Clinch County, having been ap-
pointed in 19 1 6, and is also a jury commissioner.

KNIGHT, JONATHAN, was born in originally Irwin
County, January 17th, 18 17, the son of William A. Knight,
He came to what is now Clinch County in 1836 and settled
on Suwannoochee Creek, where he lived until 1863, when he
moved back to Berrien County. He married Miss Frances
Staten, daughter of Barzilla Staten, Sr., in 1835. To this
union were born thirteen children, viz.: Barzilla, Sarah,
Catherine, Kizziah, Elizabeth, William A., Margaret,
Lovdy, Cinderella, Celesta Ann, Mary C, Ulysses A., and
Matilda T. Staten, of whom five are living. Mr. Knight
served in both the Indian and Civil Wars ; in the Civil War
he served as first lieutenant in Co. **H" 29th Georgia In-
fantry. The only office whkh Mr. Knight held was that of
justice of the Inferior Court, to which he was commissioned
January loth, 1861. He was a justice until Sept. loth, 1861.
Mr. Knight died October loth, 1886, and his remains were
buried at Union Church on AUapaha River.

KNIGHT, JOHN, was born in originally Irwin County,
in 1826, and married Miss Dicy — — , and they had several
children. He served through the Civil War in the Confeder-
ate Army, and in 1890 was elected on the Board of County
Commissioners and served two years. He died about 1900.

KNIGHT, LEVI J., was born in Wayne County, Septem-
ber 1st, 1803, and was reared in that county and married
Mrs. Ann D. Herring, in July, 1827. He then moved to what
is now Berrien County a few days after their marriage. Mr.
Knight settled on Beaver-dam Creek, near the town of Rays
City, and lived there until his death. He never did live in
Clinch ;County, although closely identified with it. Mr.
Knight participated in the Creek and Seminole wars from
18 1 8 and 1836, the last several years of which he com-
manded the pioneer troops in this section as major and colo-
nel. When the Mexican War broke out, Mr. Knight en-

266 History of Clinch County, Georgia

listed and served as a captain of volunteers the greater part
of that war, and when the Civil War broke out, or was im-
minent, he mustered the Berrien County Minutemen at Nash-
ville, Ga., and out of the 125 men more than 50 were over
six feet two inches tall, of this cpmpany he was captain.
When hostilities began the minutemen were mustered into
the 26th and 29th Georgia Regiments, one of which, Co.
**G" 29th Georgia, he became captain. Mr. Knight did not
serve through the war on account of his old age and serious
afflfction from asthma, from which he died in 1870. He was
commissioned a justice of the peace of the 658th district of
Lowndes County in 1829, and served until 1832, when he
was elected State senator from Lowndes County. He was
again elected justice of the peace and commissioned October
15th, 1838. He served again as senator through the sessions
of 1834-35 and 1837 to 1841. In 1845 he was again elected
justice of the peace and served four years. In 1851 he was
elected State senator from the 5 th district, which then included
Berrien County, and served through the session of 1851-52.
Mr. Knight was a delegate to the State constitutional con-
vention of 1868 from the 6th district, which then included
Clinch County. This was the last public service of Captain
Knight. His death occurred February 23d, 1870, and he was
buried at Union Church about ten miles from his home. He
was one of the leaders of his day and an able man.

LASLIE, ARCHIBALD D., was born in Telfair County,
Ga., January 29th, 1825. He came to Clinch County when a
young man and was elected clerk of the Superior and Inferior
Courts and commissioned January loth, 1854. He served
two years. He took up the study of medicine and graduated
from a medical college and practiced medicine in Clinch and
Echols Counties the remainder of his life. In the Civil War,
Dr. Laslie joined Co. 'T' 29th Georgia regiment, first serv-
ing as a private and later as assistant surgeon of his company.
After the war was over he came back to this county and re-

History of Clinch County, Georgia 267

sumed his practice, but in the winter of 1868-69 removed to
Echols County, where he lived until his death. Dr. Laslie
married Mrs. Catherine Davis, of Clinch County, February
23d, 1868, and by her had seven children: R. F. Laslie,
Mrs. W. J. Coleman, Miss George Laslie, Mrs. J. W. Wil-
son, Mrs. W. T. Duke, A. C. Laslie and C. B. Laslie. Dr.
Laslie served Echols County as representative in the General
Assembly of 1890-91, and was appointed by Legislative Act,
a member of the Board of County Commissioners of Echols
County, by an Act approved December 9th, 1 893. He served
until 1895. He died April 27th, 1909, at his home in Echols
County.

LASTINGER, GUILFORD, was born in Bulloch
County in 18 13, the son of William Lastinger. His father
moved to what is now Clinch County, where he grew to man-
hood. Mr. Lastinger first married a Miss Mikell, and after
her death married Miss Isabelle Brack about 1865, by whom
he had four daughters. In 1872 his second wife died, and he
married Mrs. Lauraney Malone, widow of L. S. Malone, Sr.,
and formerly Cornelius, July 22d, 1874, by whom he had one
son. He was elected justice of the peace of the 105 2d district
in 1850 and served two years. In 1852 he was elected the
first Ordinary of Clinch County, and served four years. In
1868 he was elected representative on the Radical ticket,
and served through the sessions of 1868-69, ^^^ 1870. After
this he never held any other office. He spent the declining
years of his life with his daughter, Mrs. Belle Crosby, of
Pierce County, where he died in 1896. Mr. Lastinger was
a member of the Primitive Baptist Church and an ordained
minister. In the Civil War he had six grown sons to go to
the front, all of whom died or were killed except one, Guil-
ford T. Lastinger, who is yet living.

LEE, PERRY M., was bom in Ware County, now Clinch
County, about four miles north of where DuPont now is,
February 14th, 1848, the son of Zachariah and Phoebe

268 History of Clinch County, Georgia

( Register) Lee. He was raised up near DuPont and has re-
sided near there all his life. He was married to Miss Eliza-
beth J. Fivea&h, daughter of Matthew Fiveash, November
14th, 1867, '^y whom he had twelve children. In 1874 he
was elected clerk of the Superior Court of Clinch County and
commissioned January 14th, 1875, ^^^ ^^ years. Later Mr.
Lee lived several years at the old county seat, Magnolia,
where he was appointed ex-officio justice of the peace in 1900.
He served two years. He removed to DuPont about this
time, where he entered the mercantile business with two of
his sons. In 191 5, Mr. Lee was appointed on the Board of
County Conmiissioners created by the Legislature, and in
19 16 was elected for the full term, from the 1280th and
970th districts.

LEE, PERRY R., was bom in Clinch County, January
I2th, 1878, the son of William J. and Rhoda (Clements)
Lee. He was raised up on the farm and attended the public
schools in Mud Creek and at Homerville. He was married
to Miss Pearl Smith, daughter of Benjamin Smith, Febru-
ary 2 2d, 1900, by whom he has four daughters. He was
elected sheriff in 1908 over three strong opponents, and took
charge the following January i st. He has since been re-elected
in 19 10, 19 1 2, 1 9 14 and 1916 over strong opposition. Pre-
vious to his election as sheriff he was a farmer but removed to
Homerville with the taking up of the duties of his office.

LIGHTSEY, JACOB, was bom in South Carolina, June
17th, 1 8 10, and early in life came to this State and settled in
Ware County. He married Miss Christina Rice about 1835
and by her had several children. He engaged in the Indian
war of 1836-38, and in 1840 was commissioned justice of the
peace of the 584th district of Ware County. He served as State
senator from Ware during 1844-45. ^^ ^^55 he was elected a
justice of the Inferior Court of Clinch County and served
until 1857. He did not hold any other office except as town
councilman of DuPont. He died at his home near DuPont,

History of Clinch County, Georgia 269

April 17th, 1892. His wife preceded him to the grave by two
years.

McLENDON, ISAAC T., was bom in Laurens County,
Ga., March 19th, 1835, ^^^ came to this county about i860.
In the Civil War he served a while in the Confederate Army,
and was in 1 864 elected surveyor of Clinch County aAd served
two years. He was again elected in 1872 and commissioned
January i8th, 1873, for two years. He married Miss Elpha
Smith, daughter of James C. Smith, May 20th, 1869, and
they had twelve children. Mr. McLendon taught school in
and around Homerville for many years at different intervals.
He was an active member of the Baptist Church at Homer-
ville. His death occurred at his home in Homerville, April
8th, 1 90 1, and he was buried in the Homerville cemetery.
Mr. McLendon studied law and was admitted to the bar at
Homerville in September, 1880, but never actively pursued
this profession.

McMillan, TARLTON, was bom in Barnwell dis-
trict, S. C, on what was known as Squirrel Bay, July 27th,
1826. In his early life he learned the blacksmith trade and
also farmed more or less all his life. He came to this State
in 1849 ^^^ to Clinch County in 1853. When Dr. J. H.
Mattox was clearing up a place, where Homerville now is, in
1854, he employed Mr. McMillan to cut 3,000 rails for him
with which to enclose his field. Mr. McMillan therefore re-
members very well the wild character of the county at that
time and the beginning of Homerville. In 1855 he settled
not far from the Suwannee River; here he was elected justice
of the peace in 1858 and held the office for three years. He
married Miss Margaret Strange in 1850, and they had ten
children, six daughters and four sons. During the Civil War
he was exempt from military duty three years and six months
on account of being a blacksmith. During 1864 he was mus-
tered in the army together with David Smith, another black-
smith, and after giving both a test to ascertain which was the

270 History of Clinch County, Georgia

better smith, Mr. McMillan was relieved and he returned
home. During the short time he was in the army, he was at-
tached to Co. "I" 43d Georgia Regiment. He was discharged
at Atlanta. Following the war, he settled at DuPont, where
he was appointed ex-officio justice of the peace October 28th,
1868, being the first officer of that kind to be appointed in
the county. He served several years. Mr. McMillan was
nominated for coroner of Clinch County in the primary of
1896, defeating J. B. Kirkland, and was elected in the gen-
eral election without opposition. He was re-elected in 1898,
1900 and 1902. Since that time he has lived at his home in
EhiPont. He is now in his ninetieth year and is the oldest
man in the county. He is well known and is a respected old
man.

MATHIS, JOHN, was bom in Bulloch County about
1 8 ID, the son of Edmund Mathis, one of the original settlers
of what is now Clinch County. After moving here he mar-
ried Jemima, daughter of Joshua Lee, and had several chil-
dren. He was elected coroner of Clinch County in 1851 and
served until 1858. In 1861 he was re-elected coroner and
served until 1864. He died about 1868 and was buried at
Prospect Church in Hamilton County, Fla.

MATHIS, TYRE, was bom in Bulloch County, in 1808,
the son of Edmund Mathis and brother to John Mathis
(above) . He married Nancy, a daughter of Joshua Lee, and
they had several children. He was conunissioned a justice of
the Inferior Court of Ware County January 15th, 1849, ^"^
resigned with the formation of Clinch County, and was
elected to the same position in Clinch in 1853 and served one
year. He died about 1880 and is buried at Prospect Church
in Clinch County.

MATTOX, BANKSTON ELIJAH, SR., was bom in
Clinch County, where Homerville now is, November 14th,
1854, the son of Dr. John Homer Mattox, the founder of
Homerville. He was educated in the local schools and has

History of Clinch County, Georgia 271

been living in Homerville all his life. He married Miss
Nanqr E. O'Quin, daughter of Hon. David O'Quin, January
9th, 1878, and by her had seven children. In 1877 he was
elected constable, and held that office one year. In 1886 he
was elected sheriff of Clinch County and commissioned Janu-
ary Stfi, 1887, fo^ two years. In 1892 he was elected on the
Board of County Commissioners, and qualified October 31st,
1892. He served two years. Mr. Mattox was elected at a
special election in 1904, to succeed John C. Jones as tax re-
ceiver, for the unexpired term. He was commissioned June
9th, 1904. He served until the ist of January following. In
191 2 and 19 14 he was narrowly defeated for this office. Be-
sides these offices, Mr. Mattox has held several lesser posi-
tions, such as county registrar, jury commisisoner and school
trustee.

MATTOX, ELIJAH, was born in Colleton district,
S. C, July 15th, 1798, the son of John Mattox. When he
was yet a lad the elder Mattox removed to Tattnall County,
where the young Elijah Mattox grew to manhood, receiving
a good education. He married Miss Lavinia Johnson, of
Liberty County, about 1820, and by her had ten children,
viz.: Carrie M. Mattox (died in infancy) ; Julia A. Mattox,
who first married B. G. O'Bryan and later J. A. Whitting-
ton; John Homer Mattox; Louisa A. Mattox, who married
Judson Greene; Helen M. Mattox, who married H. A. Mat- ^
tox; Victoria O. Mattox, who married L. J. Sirmans; Adilene
A. Mattox, who married Randolph Boring; Cicero M. Mat-
tox and James M. Mattox (died in infancy). About 1830
Mr. Mattox removed to Waresboro, Ga., where he was
elected clerk of the Superior and Inferior Courts in 1834,
serving one term. In the session of 1839-40, Colonel Mattox
was senator from Ware County. January i6th, 1 844, he was
commissioned surveyor of Ware County, and served one term,
and was in 1848 again elected surveyor, serving two years.
Under Governor Chas. J. McDonald, Colonel Mattox served

272 History of Clinch County, Georgia

as aide-de-camp a while, and about this time granted a large
number of lots of land in Ware and adjoining counties, be-
coming an extensive land owner. He was instrumental in the
creation of Clinch County, and in the Act creating same was
named as one of the conmiissioners to lay out and organize
the new county. He was commissioned surveyor of Clinch
County, April 12th, 1850, serving until 185 1. His death
occurred at his home at Blount's Ferry, January 21st, 1856,
and was survived by his wife who was the executrix of
his estate. Mrs. Mattox died in 1882. Mr. Mattox was
admitted to the bar in his younger days, but never did pursue
the profession.

MATTOX, HAMILTON A., was bom in TattnaU
County, August 2d, 1834, the scm of Michael Mattox, who
was a brother to Elijah Mattox. He came to Clinch County
when a young man and married Miss Helen M. Mattox, his
cousin, April loth, 1856, and to them were bom eight sons,
five of whom are living. Mr. Mattox was one of the first
to settle at Homerville, and during and following the war
owned and ran a general merchandise business in Homerville.
He served a short while in the Confederate Army in 1864 in
Co. "I" 1 2th Georgia Regiment. He was commissioned a jus-
tice of the Inferior Court of Clinch County March 26th, 1 864,
and re-commissioned January 23d, 1 865, and served until that
court was abolished. In the election of 1870, Mr. Mattox
defeated D.H.Johnson for representative, and served through
the sessions of 1871 and 1872. During his term as represen-
tative he introduced and passed a bill requiring non-resident
land owners to return the lands they owned in the county
where the land was situated and not in the county of their
residence. Later Mr. Mattox served as a jury conunissioner
for about twenty years. He was also a member and president
of the Board of Education several years. About 1880 he
entered the turpentine business with H. P. Mattox, and en-
gaged in that until about 1896. After this he removed to his

History of Clinch County, Georgia 273

farm, about six miles east of Homerville, where he resided
until his death, which occurred December 12th, 1906. He
was buried in the Homerville cemetery. Mr. Mattox was a
member of the Methodist Church at Homerville, and was for
many years Sunday School superintendent and recording
steward.

MATTOX, JAMES POLK, was born in Tattnall County,
November 15th, i860. When he was a young man he came
to Homerville and began as a store clerk for H. & H. Mattox
Co, Later he became interested in another business of the
same nature. He studied law and was admitted to the bar
at the March term, 1883, of Clinch Superior Court, and soon
acquired a very lucrative practice. On February 19th, 1888,
he was married to Miss Minnie Crum, daughter of Robert
B. Crum. Colonel Mattox was elected to the Legislature
in 1888 and took his seat in the House at the following ses-
sion that fall. In Atlanta he was taken sick with typhoid-
pneumonia about the time that the Legislature adjourned
for the holidays. His death soon followed on January 13th,
1889. His remains were brought back to Homerville and
interred in the local cemetery. The Homerville bar passed
resolutions on his death, an extract from which reads : **In his
untimely death from typhoid-pneumonia, a loving husband
has been taken away, . . . and the county and State has
lost a true public servant and our profession a worthy and
respected member." His wife died in 1896. Colonel Mattox
and his wife were active members of the Methodist Church,
and were teachers in the Sunday School several years. He
was a Mason.

MATTOX, LUCIUS CORNELIUS, was born in Tatt-
nall County, May 5th, 1829, the son of Hon. Elijah Mattox.
He received his education under private tutorage and in 1849
entered the Eclectic Medical College at Macon, where he
graduated February 9th, 185 1. After practicing medicine in
Madison County Florida, for about two years, he came to

274 History of Clinch County, Georgia

Clinch County and settled near Homerville, about two or
three miles east. Dr. Mattox first married Miss Sarah A.
Shinholser, of Macon, April 6th, 1854, and by her had six
children, viz.: Gertrude, Oscar T., Mattie, Adilene, Rena,
and Wilbur F. Mattox. In the Civil War he served as a sur-
geon in the 5th Georgia Cavalry, and was wounded, not seri-
ously, at Saltville, Va. After the war was over he came back
home, where he was elected justice of the peace of the 1224th
district and commissioned March 20th, 1865, and served
until 1867. For many years after the war he was the only
practicing physician in the county, or at least in the vicinity of
Homerville. In 1890 Dr. Mattox was nominated by the
Populists and elected representative from Clinch County, and
served through the session of 1890-91. He served on the
House conunittees on Agriculture, Insane Asylum, Temper-
ance and Deaf and Dumb Asylum. In 1892 he was nomi-
nated by the Populists as their candidate from the nth dis-
trict for Congress, and received the support of the Republi-
cans also. He received 6,078 votes to 1 1,091 cast for Henry
G. Turner, the Democratic candidate. His first wife having
died in 1882, Dr. Mattox married Miss Eliza Lanier, daugh-
ter of Rev. Robert F. Lanier, of this county; there were no
children by this marriage. Dr. Mattox was a member of the
Methodist Church for many years, but in later years joined
the Second Adventists and was ordained a preacher in that
church. He was also a Mason. For two years prior to his
death he was the Populist member of the Board of County
Registrars. He was an active Sunday School worker also. He
died June 21st, 1898, at his home near Homerville, and he
was buried on his home place, beside his mother and first wife.
His widow re-married in 1902 to Mr. W. A. Ecord.

MOBLEY, WILLIAM H., was bom in Appling County,
near Mann's Ferry, Altamaha River, March 5th, 1865, *^^
son of Solomon Mobley and his wife, Mary Mann. He
was raised upon the farm and in 1893 married Miss Belle

History of Clinch County, Georgia 275

Morgan, of Echols County, by whom he has two children.
He was appointed a member of the Board of County Com-
missioners in 19 1 5, under Legislative Act, from the 1141st
and 1219th districts, and was in 19 16 elected for the full
term of four years. He is engaged in the mercantile business
at Fargo, where he lives, and has extensive holdings in that
section.

MONK, MALACHI M., was born in Clinch County, in
1 868, the son of Hampton and Eliza Monk. He was niar-
ried to Miss Armindie Herren, December 23d, 1888, and
by her had several children. The only office he ever held in
Clinch County was that of tax collector, to which he was
nominated in the primary of 1896, defeating Hon. Mo^es
Tomlinson. By successive re-elections he held the office until
1903, when, owing to a shortage in his accounts, he turned
the office over to his bondsmen and removed to Florida. It
h generally thought that the shortage came about through
careless handling of the funds and not through any criminal
intent. He had employed various assistants in his office.

MOORE, HENRY C, was born in Clinch County, Octo-
ber loth, 1850, the son of John Moore. Early in life he
became a cripple from rheumatism, and when twenty-six years
old was elected county treasurer of Clinch County. He was
commissioned January 17th, 1877, and by continuous re-elec-
tions served until his death. He married Miss Fannie C.
Smith, daughter of Jesse Smith, September 2d, 1879, ^^d by
her had three daughters, viz. : Lucy, Lorena and Belle Moore.
His death occurred June 17th, 1891, after a long and dis-
tressing illness. The county commissioners in their report to
the Grand Jury, at the October term, 1891, said in part:
"Since the last session of your honorable body a Divine Prov-
idence has seen fit to call to his last account our worthy treas-
urer, Henry C. Moore, who has served the County of Clinch
for the last fifteen years in that capacity. He has been the
custodian of the moneys of this county, and during all the

276 History of Clinch County, Georgia

years with the demand that terminated his life, even yet when
the Messenger of Death came, he left his books correct and
the money on hand to a fraction of a cent. . . , " This
tribute is signed by F. B. Sirmans, Isham Patterson and W.
H. Gary, commissioners.

MORGAN, ABRAHAM, was bom in Appling County,
October 8th, 1856, the son of Jonathan L. Morgan, who
came to Clinch County in 1 860. He was raised on his father's
farm about ten miles south of Homerville, and when he was
sixteen years old he was employed by Josiah Sirmans, at
Homerville, as assistant in his store, express and post office
work. After the death of Mr. Sirmans in 1881, Mr. Mor-
gan was elected clerk of the Superior Court of Clinch County,
and commissioned January 13th, 1881, for two years. After
his term of office expired he moved to Waycross, where he
was appointed postmaster by President Cleveland, May 5th,
1885. When this office was raised to the third-class, in 1887,
he was re-appointed and continued as postmaster until the
Republicans went into power. He was appointed postmaster
at Haylow, Ga., in 1895, but in 1899 resigned and returned
to Waycross, where he was employed as a clerk in the post
office. In 1 903 he was appointed assistant postmaster by W.
A. McNeil, and re-appointed in 1905 by C. E. Murphy, and
in 1 9 13 by H. C. Bunn. Mr. Morgan is at present assistant
postmaster. He married Miss Julia E. Wideman, of Clinch
County, June 30th, 1886, by which marriage there are two
children.

MORGAN, HAMPTON, was born in Appling County
in 1843, ^^^ s^^ ^f Hon. John L. Morgan, Sr. In 1853 his
father removed to Magnolia and in i860 to Homerville. In
the Civil War he served a while In Co. "K" 26th Georgia
Infantry, but in 1864 was elected Ordinary of the county at
the age of twenty-one. He was commissioned January 14th,
1864, for four years. He married about 1869, Miss Mary
A. McDonald, a daughter of Rev. W. A. McDonald, of

History of Clinch County, Georgia 277

Ware County, and after her death married a Miss Sweat. He
eventually removed about 1867 to Florida, where he died
about 1895 at Ybor City.

MORGAN, JOHN L., was born in Habersham County,
Georgia, in 1802, and removed when he was a young man to
Appling County. Here he lived until 1846. He married in
18 19 Miss Fannie L. Harris, by whom he had nine children.
He was elected justice of the peace of the 583 d district of
Appling County in 1845, ^^^ resigned the next year and re-
moved to Lowndes County. He lived there until 1853, when
he removed to Magnolia. Here he opened up a store which
he continued to run until his removal to Homerville. In 1854
he was elected judge of the Inferior Court and served four
years. In 1861 he was again elected and served until 1868.
He was elected Ordinary of Clinch County and commissioned
January 29th, 1858, and re-elected in 1861, serving until
1864. About 1868 Mr. Morgan, with his son John L.
Morgan, Jr., established a gin and grist mill at Homerville,
which, although equipped with the latest machinery, proved
to be a failure. In 1871 Judge Morgan was re-elected Ordi-
nary for two years. In 1880 he was again elected Ordinary
and commissioned January 27th, 1881, for four years. Al-
though past four score years during his last term of office, yet
Mr. Morgan was strong and vigorous and he employed no
clerk in his office. Judge Morgan's death occurred at his
home below Homerville five miles, July 28th, 1888, age 86
years. He was buried in the Homerville cemetery. Mrs.
Morgan survived her husband and died about ten years later
in Hamilton County, Fla. Judge's Morgan's sons are, in
their order: Joseph, who was killed in 1861 in the war; John
L., Jr.; Hampton ; Lemuel T. (killed at Manassas) ; Thomas
C; William R., and Quarterman B. Morgan. Judge Mor-
gan was the first W. M. of the Masonic Lodge at Magnolia.

MUSGROVE, WILLIAM VERNIE, was bom Novem-
ber 15th, 1880, the son of C. H. and Julie Musgrove. He

278 History of Clinch County, Georgia

worked on the farm and entered the turpentine business as
a woodsrider, and after several years' hard work entered the
business for himself. He has pursued the turpentine business
for the last fifteen years and has been a successful operator.
He married in 1900 Miss Alice O'Steen, a daughter of Jona-
than O'Steen, and they have six children. Mr. Musgrove
never aspired for any office until 19 16, when he announced
for Ordinary. He was elected by a majority of 233 votes,
defeating the incumbent, J. T. Dame. His term of office
will begin January ist, 19 17. Mr. Musgrove's father, who
was a native of Baker County, died March 23d, 19 15.

NEWBERN, ALFRED, was bom in 1830, in Lowndes
County, the son of William C. Newbem, who was a justice
of the Inferior Court and a sheriff of that county. He mar-
ried Elizabeth Moore, and by her had a son, George L. New-
bern. The elder Newbern served as deputy clerk under H.
D. O'Quin, and in 1 870 was elected county treasurer. He was
re-elected twice, and served six years. Mr. Newbem subse-
quently removed to Florida, where he died at the home of
his son.

NEWBERN, GEORGE WASHINGTON, was bom

January ist, 1825, in Appling County. He married about
1847, Miss Rebecca Thomas, a daughter of Absalom
Thomas, of Ware County. They had eight children. In 185 1
Mr. Newbern was elected clerk of the Superior Court of
Clinch County and commissioned January 14th, 1852, hold-
ing the office two years. January 12th, 1857 he was com-
missioned a justice of the Inferior Court and served one year.
In the Civil War he was second lieutenant in Co. "F' 4th
Georgia Cavalry. Under H. D. O'Quin he served a while as
deputy clerk of the Superior Court. In 1874 he was elected
State senator from the 5 th district, defeating Daniel Lott.
In 1 8 8 1 he was elected county school commissioner and qual-
ified January 1 6th, 1882. He served in this capacity until
1892. Mr. Newbem was a minister of the Missionary Bap-

History of Clinch County, Georgia 279

tist Church and served several churches in this county as
pastor. He was one of the original members of the Masonic
lodge organized at Magnolia. His death occurred July loth,
1 892, at his home in Homerville, and his remains were buried
in the North cemetery near DuPont.

NICHOLS, WILLIAM M., was born in Jones County,
April 9th, 1 830, the son of Simon W. and Margaret (Waver)
Nichols. With his parents he came to Ware County, now
Clinch, and at the age of twenty-four was elected a justice
of the Inferior Court of Clinch County. He was the next
year elected a State senator from this county, serving
through the session of 1855-56. In 1857 he was re-elected
to the Inferior Court and served one year. Mr. Nichols' wife
was Miriam, daughter of Governor Wilson Lumpkin. After
the war Mr. Nichols removed to Atlanta, where he became
proprietor of the Kimball House. He died in Atlanta, Sep-
tember 6th, 1882, and was buried there. His wife died about
1908. They had no children. Mr. Nichols, with his brother.
Dr. W. J. Nichols, owned much land in Clinch County, al-
though the control of it was nominally in their father.

NORTH, JOHN J., was born in Colleton district, S. C,
November i6th, 1792. He came to this State at an early age,
and in the Indian war of 1836-38 commanded the troops as
captain in this county. He was elected a justice of the peace
of the 719th district in 1833 and 1843, ^^^ served two
terms. Mr. North was married three times and had twenty
children including those who died in their infancy. His last
wife was Rebecca, a sister of Tarlton McMillan, of this
county. He was elected a justice of the Inferior Court of
Clinch County in 1857, and served until 1861, He lived near
DuPont, and his death occurred June 19th, 1880, age 88
years. He is buried at the North cemetery near DuPont.

NORTH, WILLIAM B., was born in Clinch County in
1848, the son of James North. He was married September
1 8th, 1877, to Harriet Stalvey, by whom he has several chil-

28o History of Clinch County, Georgia

drcn. He has served eleven years on the Board of Educa-
tion and for six years was ex-officio justice of the peace of the
1 141st district. About 191 1 he removed from the Wiregrass
district, his old home, to about three miles below Stockton,
where he owns a nice farm. He was appointed on the Board
of County Commissioners in 1915 by Legislative Act, from
Stockton and Withers district, and in 19 16 was elected for
the full term.

O'QUIN, DAVID, was born in Appling County, March
1 2th, 1 82 1, the son of Silas O'Quin. He was married about
1 847 to Miss Matilda Higgs, of Ware County, and by this
marriage had eight children, viz.: Eli W. O'Quin, H. A.
O'Quin, Victoria, who married William Barlow ; George W.
O'Quin, Nancy E., who married B. E. Mattox, David H.
O'Quin, and Janie, who married B. R. Futch. When Mag-
nolia was founded he became one of the first merchants there,
and in 1854 was elected sheriff of Clinch County, serving two
years. He was elected Clerk of the Superior Court and In-
ferior Court in 1856 and served by continuous re-elections
until 1868. During the old days when Magnolia was at its
best, Mr. O'Quin, whose home was very roomy, ran a hotel
and his home was often a social center for the village. In 1868
he did not offer for re-election, and his brother was elected
clerk. From then on, he gave his time to farming. He was
appointed ex-officio justice or the peace of the 970th district
January 15th, 1876, and served in this capacity until his
death. He was appointed clerk of the Superior Court in De-
cember, 1880, to succeed C. A. Smith, resigned, and served
about two months. He was a charter member of the Masonic
lodge at Magnolia. His death occurred April 19th, 1884, at
his home at Magnolia, and his remains were buried in the
Homerville cemetery under the auspices of the local lodge
of Masons. His widow died in 1895.

O'QUIN, HANSFORD DUNCAN, was bom in Appling
County, in 18 16, the son of Silas O'Quin. He was elected

History of Clinch County, Georgia 281

Clerk of the Superior and Inferior Courts of Appling County
and commissioned January 20th, 1846, serving two years.
iLater he came to Clinch County and taught school. He was
admitted to the bar about 1867, ^^^ practiced intermittently
until his removal to Berrien County, some years later. He was
elected clerk of the Superior Court of Clinch County in 1868,
and served three years. In 1871 he was elected the first
county school commissioner of the county, qualifying June
3d, 1 87 1. He was re-elected in 1876, and served until 1882.
He was a member of the Board of Education 1 879-1 884,
after which he removed to Berrien County, where he died
about 1890. Mr. O'Quin was first married to Mrs. Matilda '
Joyce, daughter of Rev. G. W. Newbern, and after her death
to Mrs. Vicy Benton, also daughter of Rev. Newbern, and
they had several children.

O'STEEN, BENJAMIN, was born in Ware County,
April 1 6th, 1849, ^he son of John R. O'Steen. He was raised
upon his father's farm. He married September 22d, 1867,
Miss Mildred Herren, daughter of Levi Herren, Sr. In
1876 he was elected coroner of the county and commissioned
January 17th, 1877, and held this office four years. He died
December nth, 1901, and was buried at Arabia cemetery.
Mr. O'Steen was a member of the Primitive Baptist Church.

O'STEEN, BRYANT, was born in Clinch County in
i860, the son of John R. O'Steen. His father was killed in
the Civil War and he was thus deprived of a father's help at
an early age. He was reared on the farm, married Miss
Jerushia Tomlinson, daughter of Enoch Tomlinson, Decem-
ber 22d, 1887, and they have several children. In 1896 he
was nominated in the Democratic primary, defeating Peter A.
Young, his nearest opponent, by thirty-one votes. In the
ensuing general election, he defeated his Populist opponent,
Moses S. Eason, by 187 votes. In 1898 he was nominated
in the primary, defeating J. A. Smith, by 688 votes.
In the following general election he defeated his Populist

282 History of Clinch County, Georgia

opponent, William Dame, by eighty-eight votes. He did not
offer for re-election in 1900. Mr. O'Steen is a member of the
Primitive Baptist Church.

PRESCOTT, JESSE P., was born in South Carolina, in

1824. He was married in 1845 ^^ Miss Sarah , and

came to what is now Clinch County in 1848. He was com-
missioned justice of the peace of the 1058th district, then in
Clinch County, September 21st, 1850, serving seven years.
He was commissioned tax collector of Clinch County, Janu-
ary 13th, 1858, and served one year. About this time Echols
County was created, and Mr. Prescott's home was included in
the new county. He was elected the first clerk of the Superior
and Inferior Courts of Echols County, and commissioned
April 15th, 1859. He held this office for about twenty-five
years. By an Act of the Legislature, approved December
13th, 1859, Statenville was incorporated and Mr. Prescott
was named one of the town's commissioners. He was a mem-
ber of the Missionary Baptist Church. Mr. Prescott died at
his home in Statenville in 1904, and was buried in the local
cemetery. His children were: E. J. W. Prescott, T. M. Pres-
cott, H. D. Prescott, Miss A. M. and W. E. Prescott.

RAMSEY, THOMAS GREEN, was born in Dooly
County in 1823. While quite a boy his father moved with
the family to Stewart; here he attended the "old field school,"
but finished his education at Cedartown Institute in Polk
County. In 1846 he went to Alachua County, Florida, his
father's family having moved there the year before. In 1852
he met Miss Elizabeth Sikes and they were married in 1853.
In 1854 he removed to Clinch County, Georgia, not far from
Milltown, where he farmed. In 1861 he, with Mr. Benjamin
Sirmans, were elected delegates to the secession convention at
Milledgeville, both voting for secession. Returning home he
sold his plantation preparatory to moving back to Florida;
but the war coming on he purchased and settled a place six
miles south of Homerville. Here he was elected one of the

History of Clinch County, Georgia 283

judges of the Inferior Court, being commissioned September
19th, 1862. He served until 1865. I^ 1875 he removed
with his family to Montgomery County, where he purchased
a farm on the Ocmulgec River, six miles below Lumber City.
He lived here until 1884, when he moved to Arredondo, Fla.
Here he engaged in farming and stock-raising up to the time
of his death, September 13th, 1905. Of his family of eight
children, three survive him. His son. Perry G. Ramsey, is
now, and has been, several years sheriff of Alachua County,
Florida.

REGISTER, AUGUSTUS OTIS, was born in Clinch
County, near Withers, November 20th, 1874, the son of S.
W. and Mary Register. He was raised on his father's farm,
and at the age of nineteen came to Homerville, when his
father was elected clerk of the Superior Court, and assisted
him in the office work for several years. In 1898 he was mar-
ried to Miss Maggie Inman, a daughter of J. H. Inman, and
by this marriage had four children. After his marriage he
removed to a farm which he bought about six miles south of
Homerville, where he lived a few years. He was commis-
sioned ex-officio justice of the peace of the 1365th district,
October 26th, 1900, but in the course of a year or so removed
from the district. In 1905 his father appointed him deputy
clerk of the Superior Court, serving until his father's death.
In 1908 Mr. Register was elected at a special election to suc-
ceed his father as clerk. His term expired December 31st,
1909. In November, 1908, he appointed A. J. Gibbs his
deputy and Mr. Register removed ta Berrien County, where
he has since resided. In 1908 his wife died, and he subse-
quently married Miss Leola Shaw, of Berrien County.

REGISTER, GUILFORD A., was born In Ware, now
Clinch County, April 13th, 1842, the son of William Reg-
ister. When the Civil War came on, he, with his brothers,
joined Co. "G" 50th Georgia Infantry, in April, 1862, and
served until the close of the war. Shortly after the war he

284 History of Clinch County, Georgia

married Rachel E., daughter of William Hughes, by whom
he had seven sons and a daughter. In 1882 he was elected
coroner of Clinch County, and was commissioned January
' 9th, 1883, serving one term. In 1884 he was elected tax col-
lector of Clinch County, and commissioned January 13th,
1885, serving one term. For many years Mr. Register, lived
on his farm south of DuPont, but later lived in DuPont.
After the death of his first wife in 1905 he married Miss
Carrie Day, of DuPont, but had no children by her. His
death occurred in DuPont, May nth, 191 1. He was buried
in North cemetery.

REGISTER, SAMUEL W., was born in Ware, now
Clinch County, August 5th, 1839, the son of William Reg-
ister. In early life he was a farmer and pursued that occu-
pation more or less all of his life. He was married August
1 8th, 1859, ^^ Miss Mary Stanford, daughter of David
Stanford. By this union were born eight daughters and one
son, A. O. Register. Leaving his wife and child on the farm
he joined Co. "G" 50th Georgia Regiment in April, 1862,
and served until the close of the war. He lost three fingers off
his left hand in battle. He was in all the important battles
of the army of northern Virginia. Returning home he was
elected tax collector of Clinch County in 1865, ^^d commis-
sioned January 22, 1866, for two years. He was a member
of the first Board of Education under the amended laws of
1872. When the 1365th district was created in 1884 he was
elected its first justice of the peace, being commissioned Janu-
ary 22d, 1885. He served until October 7th, 1890, when he
resigned to make the race for clerk of the Superior Court. He
was defeated by his Populist opponent, W. A. Ecord, who
was the incumbent. However, two years later, Mr. Register
was elected by a large Democratic majority. He was com-
missioned clerk January 6th, 1893, and served by re-elections
until 1908. In the Democratic primary of 1908 he was de-
feated by A. J. Gibbs. His death occurred shortly afterwards

History of Clinch County, Georgia 285

on May 17th, 1908, vertigo being ascribed as the cause of
his death. The following day his body was taken in charge
by the local lodge of Masons, of which he had been a member
since 1867, and conducted to the cemetery at Cow Creek
Church, six miles south of Stockton, where it was buried. He
was survived by his wife and nine children. His widow died
in 191 5. He was succeeded as clerk by his son, A. O. Reg-
ister, his term not having expired.

REGISTER, PERRY A., was bom in Clinch County,
May 24th, 1866, the son of John T. Register. He was raised
on his father's farm and married Christina Copeland, daugh-
ter of David Copeland, of Naylor. They have several chil-
dren. In 1896 Mr. Register was nominated for county treas-
urer, defeating W. H. Gary by 176 majority. He served dur-
ing 1897-9, and was succeeded by George M. Dame. Mr.
Register has since entered the mercantile business at DuPont,
in which he has been very successful.

REGISTER, LUCIUS C, was bom in Clinch County, in
1868, the son of John T. Register. He was raised on his
father's farm, and first married ' Miss Miriam Morgan,
daughter of Martin Z. Morgan, of this county, and after
her death married Miss Mary McCuUers, daughter of John
A. McCuUers, of this county. He has five children. In 1 906
he announced for tax collector of Clinch County and was
elected over strong opposition. He served one term. He
lives on his farm near DuPont.

RODGERS, JOSEPH O., was born and reared in Clinch
County. He received his early education in the common and
high schools of his native county, and graduated at The Geor-
gia Normal College and Business Institute in 1906, later at-
tending school at the University of Georgia. He made a per-
manent certificate as a teacher in 191 1 and engaged in his
favorite profession, teaching school, up till his election as
county school superintendent in the spring of 19 16. He will

286 History of Clinch County, Georgia

take charge of this office January ist, 191 7. Mr. Rodgers'
early ancestors were emigrants from Ireland and Wales to
the Carolinas, thence to Appling County. His great-grand-
father, Joseph L. Rodgers, was the first coroner of Clinch
County; his grandfather, William Rodgers, bom 1826, mar-
ried Martha, daughter of George Hamage, of this county;
his father, George Quarterman Rodgers, now lives in Echols
County, at Walker, Georgia. Mr. Rodgers' mother was
Sallie, the fifth daughter of Wesley Johnson, deceased, late
of Clinch County.

SESSOMS, ALEX. K., was bom at Graham, Georgia, in
Appling County, Sept. 21st, 1882, the son of Alexander Ses-
soms, of Cumberland County, N. C, and his wife Lou W.
Sessoms, of Sampson County, N. C. He lived at Graham
until 1890, when the elder Sessoms removed to Sessoms,
Georgia, where he engaged in the turpentine business, for
two years, when they removed to Waycross. From 1895 to
1900 the younger Sessoms went to school at Davis Military
School, Winston, N. C, Gordon Institute at Bamesville, and
the Georgia Technological School at Atlanta. In 1900 he
went to Europe for three months and retuming home he
went to woik in a door, sash and blind factory at Waycross,
as a laborer at 75 cents per day. He worked there for three
months. On January ist, 1901 he went to Jacksonville, Fla.,
as a shipping clerk in a wholesale grocery business and worked
there six months. Retuming to Waycross he was employed
as shipping clerk for J. M. Cox Company, where he worked
until the fall of 1903. He then went to Andalusia, Alabama,
where he organized the Sessoms Grocery Company, a
$75,000 corporation. In 1908 he gave up the management
of this company and went to Mexico, where he organized
and took the management of a ranch of half million acres.
In the fait of 1 908 Mr. Sessoms was called to Waycross to
take charge of his father's extensive business on account of
his failing health. Hiis father died September 15th, 1909.

History of Clinch County, Georgia 287

In 191 1 Mr. Sessoms, in connection with Hon. F. B. Sirmans,
and other incorporators, began the construction of the Way-
cross & Western Railroad from Waycross westward, and in
1 9 14 it was completed to Milltown, a distance of forty-five
miles. Mr. Sessoms was elected president of the railroad, and
gave his personal attention to the building of the road. On
February 28th, 1913, he married Miss Edna Sirmans, daugh-
ter of Senator F. B. Sirmans, of this county, and went to live
at Waycross. In 19 14 The Sessoms Land & Securities Com-
pany was organized to take over the Sessoms estate lands, and
in order to develop these lands into farms, Mr. Sessoms moved
to Cogdell in this county, where he now lives. Since moving
into the county, the companies he represents have spent
$20,000 each year in building and opening farms. They con-
template spending that much or more for the next several
years. They have one of the largest and best farms in the
State. Mr. Sessoms' companies pay ten per cent, of the total
taxes of the county, an evidence of their importance to Clinch
County industries. In 191 5 Mr. Sessoms was appointed on
the Board of County Commissioners, by Legislative Act, hav-
ing been a resident of the county just about a year. Mr. Ses-
soms is a most progressive man and all his ideas tend to-
wards the upbuilding and developing of Clinch County and
her resources.

SIRMANS, BENJAMIN, was born in Emanuel County,
February 6th, 1792, the son of Josiah Sirmans and his wife,
Artie Hardeman. He was one of the first settlers of what is
now Clinch County, having settled here according to his de-
scendants, December 22d, 1822, on the place now owned by
J. B. Strickland in the Mud Creek district. He lived there
until his death. Mr. Sirmans became very wealthy, owning
many slaves and much other property. He married Martha
Johnson, a sister of Gen. David Johnson; she died December
24th, 1856. To them were bom ten children (see Sirmans
family history) . He represented Lowndes County in the leg-

288 History of Clinch County, Georgia

islature through the sessions of 1828-29, 1838-39 and 1840-
41. He was State Senator from Clinch County in the session
of 1853-54. According to reports, he defeated George W.
Newbem by thirteen votes in the race for senator, also Rowan
Pafford by thirteen votes, and R. Y. Stanford by seven votes.
When Clinch County was organized in 1850 Mr. Sirmans
was appointed one of the commissioners to organize the
county. When the call for delegates to the secession conven-
tion at Milledgeville was made in January, 1861, Mr. Sir-
mans was elected one of the delegates, voting for secession.
His death occurred May ist, 1863, and his remains were
buried at the Fender cemetery. He was one of the leading
men of the county of his time, and is represented by numer-
ous descendants in the county to-day.

SIRMANS, DAVID J., was bom in Emanuel County,
March ist, 18 19, the son of Benjamin Sirmans, Sr. His
father moved first to Appling and afterwards to Lowndes,
now Clinch County, when David J. Sirmans was quite young.
Mr. Sirmans served as a volunteer under Capt. John J.
Johnson, Col. Brown's regiment, in the Seminole Indian war.
In 1 845 he was elected tax receiver and collector of Lowndes
County, and held this office one term. In 1859 he ^^^ elected
State senator from Clinch County, serving one term. Mr.
Sirmans was married in 1840 to Miss Eliza Wilkerson,
daughter of John Wilkerson, of South Carolina. She died in
1886. By her he had several children. After his first wife's
death, Mr. Sirmans married Lucinda, daughter of W. S.
Roberts, of Echols County. He served as ex-officio justice of
the peace of the 1280th district 1 876-1 880. For about fifty
years prior to his death, Mr. Sirmans lived on a lot of land
about five miles north of DuPont, which he granted from
the State in 1843. He bought up other land surrounding, and
was engaged in the turpentine business for several years prior
to his death, but sold out shortly before his death. He died
March 24th, 1905, of heart failure, and was buried at the

History of Clinch County, Georgia 289

Fender graveyard on the AUapaha River. He was a member
of the Primitive Baptist Church.

SIRMANS, EZEKIEL J., was born in Irwin, now Clinch
County, February 28th, 1824, being the first white child bom
on what is now Clinch County soil. In 1 847 he was elected
tax collector of Lowndes County, and when Clinch was cre-
ated he was chosen its first tax collector. He was first com-
missioned April 12, 1850, but did not take up his commis-
sion on account of holding the same office in Lowndes County.
He was again elected and commissioned January i6th, 1851,
and served one year. March 7th, 1853, h^ was commissioned'
justice of the peace of the 970th district and served a year.
During the Civil War Mr. Sirmans was first lieutenant of
Co. "I" 4th Georgia Cavalry. During his lifetime Mr. Sir-
mans accumulated much wealth, which was inherited at his
death by his children, Franklin B., Manasseh and Caroline
Sirmans. He died April 28th, 1900, and was buried at the
Fender cemetery.

SIRMANS, FRANKLIN B., was born in Clinch County,
September 22d, 1853, the son of Ezekiel J. Sirmans. He was
raised on the farm and educated in the common schools, and
when grown he engaged in farming, stock-raising and mer-
chandising. In this he was very successful. He married Feb-
ruary 28th, 1878, Miss Amanda Strickland, daughter of
Charles Strickland, by whom he had two children, Chandler
(died) and Edna, who married A. K. Sessoms. He was first
elected State senator in 1886, and served through the session
of 1 886-1 887. In 1892 he was again elected, defeating the
Populist candidate by over 2,000 plurality. In 1898 he was
defeated by R. G. Dickerson. In 1 904 he was again elected,
defeating S. L. Drawdy. In 19 10 he was defeated by W. T.
Dickerson. Mr. Sirmans was appointed notary public and
ex-officio justice of the peace of the 586th district, to which
he was commissioned October 15th, 1880. He also was a
County Commissioner for three years, 1 890-1 893. He was a

290 History of Clinch County, Georgia

member of the Jury Commissioners for about ten years. Mr.
.Sirmans' first wife having died, he was married April 27th,
1905, to Mrs. Fannie L. Williams, daughter of A. Gill, of
Jasper, Fla. There were no children by this marriage. For
several years Mr. Sirmans was a turpentine operator, besides
farming and stock-raising. He became very wealthy, due to
his own business acumen, inheritance from his father's estate
and his first wife's inheritance from her father. At his death
Mr. Sirmans was about the largest property owner in the
county. He died March 12th, 19 15, at his home near the
town of Sirmans, in the Mud Creek district. Mr. Sirmans
was very instrumental in the building of the Waycross &
Western Railroad through the county. At his death he was
its vice-president. He was also the founder of the town of
Sirmans on the new railroad. His remains were buried at
Fender graveyard with Masonic ceremonies.

SIRMANS, JOSEPH, was bom in Emanuel County, May
1 6th, 1808, the son of Josiah Sirmans, Sr., and a brother to
Benjamin Sirmans. When he was yet a lad his father re-
moved to Irwin,, now Clinch County, where they settled.
Joseph Sirmans was married about 1830 to Miss Rebecca
Smith, a daughter of Rev. William Smith, by whom he had
six children, viz. : Artie, Mary, Matilda, Lucretia, Nancy and
John Sirmans. His first wife having died in 1856, Mr. Sir-
mans married Mrs. Sarah Howell, a widow, by whom he had
one son, Isaac Sirmans. In 1872 he was elected representa-
tive from Clinch County, and served through the session of
1873-74. He was also a member of the Jury Commissioners
for several years. He died at his home in the Mud Creek
district October 7th, 1888, age eighty years. He was buried
at the Fender graveyard.

SIRMANS, LYMAN A., was bom April ist, 1838, in
what is now Clinch County, the youngest son of Benjamin
Sirmans. He was admitted to the bar and practiced law in
Homerville several years. He married Miss MoUie Griffin,

History of Clinch County, Georgia 291

daughter of Rev. W. W. Griffin, and by her had two chil-
dren, Noble A. Sirmans and Mrs. Frank A. Smith. Col. Sir-
mans enlisted in Co. "A" 20th Georgia Battalion, May 12th,
1862. Later he joined O'Steen's company and was elected
second lieutenant. When the County Court was first organ-
ized in 1 866, Colonel Sirmans was appointed its first solicitor,
May loth, 1866. He served about two years. He removed
about 1875 ^o DeKalb County, but later returned to Clinch
County and settled at DuPont. Here he resumed his law
practice in 1895. He was a very active member of the Metho-
dist Church at Homerville and at DuPont. At the latter
place he was Sunday School superintendent a while. He died
April 22d, 1 9 10, at his home in DuPont, and was buried at
the North cemetery. His widow died in 19 14.

SMITH, ALLEN N., originally Allen Smith, was born
in what is now Clinch County, Sept. nth, 1842, the oldest
son of James C. Smith. He served in O'Steen's company dur- ,
ing the war, and was in 1864 elected justice of the peace of
the 970th district. He served three years and then removed
to Homerville and was elected justice of the peace there
in 1867. He resigned in 1868 and was appointed treas-
urer of Clinch County to succeed Riley Johnson, who had
resigned. He was appointed November 28th, 1868, and
served until 1871. His books at the court-house are dis-
tinguished for their neatness and preciseness. After this,
Mr. Smith went to Blackshear, Ga., where he has kept his
citizenship since. He married Miss Bettie Strickland, of
Blackshear, daughter of Allen C. Strickland, and they had
three children, Bessie, Lela V., and Moultrie J. Smith. Mr.
Smith was elected Ordinary of Pierce County in 1885, and
served eight years. Later he returned to Clinch County and
lived a few years on his father's old home place. A daugh-
ter married J. B. O'Neal, who is clerk of the Superior Court
of Pierce County at present.

292 History of Clinch County, Georgia

SMITH, CHARLTON H., was bom in Ware, now
Clinch County, July 8th, 1846, the son of John and Cassie
&nith. He attended Mercer University at Penfield, under
Prof. S. P. Sanford in 1870. When the Civil War com-
menced, Mr. Smith was too young to join, but in May, 1864,
joined Co. "I" 4th Georgia cavalry and served until the
war closed. In 1869 he was appointed constable of the
586th district. He married Miss Martha Henderson, a
daughter of John S. Henderson, September 21st, 1875, and
by this marriage were bom: Wilbur S. Smith, Ezekiel J.
Smith, Lillie, who married S. B. Eatman; Nora, who married
S. R. Kirton ; Nettie, who married E. D. Brinson ; Cora, who
married S. A. Sweat, and Ivey, who married W. J. Patter-
son. In 1878 he purchased a farm near Homerville and
settled on it. In 1881 he was elected justice of the
peace of the I224the district and conunissioned January
24th, 1 88 1 and served one term. He was elected constable
of the 1224th district in 1887 ^^^ served four years. In 1892
he was elected county school superintendent, and qualified
May 30th, 1892. He was re-elected in 1896, but resigned in
1899. He was commissioned ex-officio justice of the peace of
the 1224th district December 5th, 1905, to succeed J. C.
Kirkland, deceased; he resigned this office December 19th,
1908, and the same day was conunissioned justice of the
peace. To this office he was re-elected and conunissioned
December 21st, 191 2 for four years. He was an unsuccess-
ful candidate for Ordinary in 1908.

SMITH, CORNELIUS ASHLEY, was bom June 30th,
1 84 1, the son of William and Martha Smith. In the Civil
War he joined the 31st Georgia Regiment and was wounded
at the battle of Fredericksburg. Later he was in the Federal
prison in Baltimore for six months but was exchanged. At
the time of the surrender he was captain of his company.
Following the close of the war he came to Clinch County,
and married Miss Nannie Smith, daughter of Peter and Cath-

History of Clinch County, Georgia 293

erine, November 15th, 1866. To them were born seven
children, viz.: William P., Nannie, Tom, E. D., Ashley,
Rena and Boynton Smith. He was commissioned ex-officio
justice of the peace March 4th, 1869, but resigned Septem-
ber 1 2th, 1870. He was appointed deputy clerk of the Super-
ior Court under E. T. Dukes, and in 1876 was elected clerk.
In 1878 he was re-elected, and in 1880 was elected State
senator. He resigned the office of clerk shortly before his
term was out, and took up his duties as senator. In 1882,
when the County Court was re-established, Mr. Smith was
appointed judge of the same, being commissioned April nth,
1882. He held the office two and one-half years. For several
years he was railroad and express agent here. About 1885
Mr. Smith, with his family, removed to Texas and settled in
Angeline County, where he was elected a county commissioner
in 1898. He was a commissioner at the time of his death,
which occurred at his home in Lufkin, Texas, July i6th, 1901,
age 60 years. The records in the clerk's office at the court-
house attest the neat and correct way in which Mr. Smith
kept the clerk's office while he was its occupant. His widow
is yet living at Nacogdoches, Texas, while two of his sons
occupy high positions with the Nacogdoches and Southern-
eastern Railroad.

SMITH, JESSE, was born in Appling County, on Red
Bluff Creek, August 25th, 1820, the son of William Smith.
Here he spent his boyhood days and figured very prominently
in the Indian war of 1836-38. He joined a company of
"scouts" under Captain Knowles and helped to drive the last
Indian from the Okefinokee, the Indians' last stronghold. He
was elected a justice of the peace of the 586th district of
Ware County, and commissioned January 24th, 1845. He
served two years. In 1850 he was elected justice of the peace
of the 970th district and commissioned September 21st, 1850.
He was re-conmiissioned in 1853, 1855, 1857, 1859, serving
until i860. In 1 861 he was elected sheriff of Clinch County,

294 History of Clinch County, Georgia

and commissioned January i^dj 1862. He served two years.
He was in Co. "I" 4th Georgia Cavalry a short while during
the Civil War. In 1864 he was elected representative from
Clinch County, serving through the session of 1 865-1 866.
He was married soon after the Indian war to Miss Nancy
Tomlinson, daughter of Moses Tomlinson, Sr., and by her
had five children, viz. : Sherod, Cicero, John L., Fannie C,
who first married Henry C. Moore, and later John C. Jones,
and Matilda Smith. He was a member of the Primitive
Baptist Church. His home was at Magnolia, where he lived
previous to and during the Civil War. He was a charter mem-
ber of the Masonic Lodge at Magnolia. Mr. Smith's death
occurred in 1884. His wife died in January, 1880. Both
are buried at Red Bluff Church.

SMITH, JAMES M., was bom in what is now Clinch
County about 1840, the son of Peter and Catherine Smith.
He was married to Miss Amanda J. Futch, daughter of Mal-
colm C. Futch, December 31st, 1874, and by her had ten
children. The only office which Mr. Smith held was that of
representative from Clinch. He served through the session of
1895-96. After his term was out, Governor Northen ap-
pointed him immigration agent for Clinch County. But his
death soon followed, October 23d, 1896, following a pro-
tracted illness. He was buried at the Peter Smith family
burial ground. Mr. Smith was engaged prior to his death in
the turpentine business with F. Dickerson.

SMITH, JOHN M., was bom in Clinch County, March
13th, 1880, the son of David J. Smith and his wife, Fannie
Curry. He was reared on his father's farm, and on December
22d, 1903, was married to Miss Avy Lott, of Coffee County.
They have three children living, viz.: Orie, Chester and
Chandler Smith. Mr. Smith, in the primary of 19 16, was
elected county commissioner from the 586th and io6ist dis-
tricts to succeed Alex. K. Sessoms, whom he defeated. He
will assume his office January ist, 19 17. Besides this office,

, L ^ijf»r -r-

History of Clinch County, Georgia 295

Mr. Smith has served as a district road commissioner and as
jury commissioner.

SMITH, LEWIS, was bom in what is now Clinch County,
in 1843, ^he son of Manning Smith, who was one of Clinch's
first representatives to the legislature. When the Civil War
came on, Lewis Smith joined Co. "K" 26th Georgia Infantry
and served till its close. He was married to Miss Roxie Mor-
gan, daughter of Hon. John L. Morgan, Ordinary, January
3d, 1870. They had several children. He lived one mile east
of Homerville on the railroad, his place being now known as
the *T,ewis Smith place." He was elected treasurer of Clinch
County in 1891 to succeed Sherod Smith, who died. He was
commissioned November 28th, 1891, and served two years.
Later Mr. Smith removed to Florida, where he died.

SMITH, MANNING, was bom in this State about 18 15,
the son of William Smith, a pioneer of Clinch County. He
took part in the Indian wars as a volunteer, and in 1 845 was
elected a justice of the Inferior Court of Ware County. He
was commissioned March 19th, 1845 ^^^ served one term.
When Clinch County was organized it embraced Mr.
Smith's home and he was elected as one of the first justices of
the Inferior Court of the new county in 1850, being commis-
sioned April 1 2th, 1850. He served three years and was re-
elected. He served until 1854, when he was elected to the
Legislature as a representative. He served through the ses-
sion of 1855-56. He was then re-elected to the Inferior
Court and commissioned January 12th, 1857, serving four
years. His death occurred during the Civil War. Mr. Smith's
wife was Elizabeth Tomlinson, daughter of Moses Tomlin-
son, Sr., by whom he had several children, among whom
were Lewis, Moses, Neter and Sarah Smith.

SMITH, SHEROD, w^s bom in Ware, now Clinch
County, October 6th, 1 846, the son of Jesse Smith. He was
employed by Lucius Sirmans, a merchant of DuPont, as
bookkeeper at the time of his marriage to Miss Peggie Kight,

296 History of Clinch County, Georgia

daughter of Hiram and Sarah Kight. They were married
May 27, 1877. To them were bom seven children, three
sons and four daughters. Later, Mr. Smith came to Homer-
ville where he engaged in business on his own account. Sub-
sequently he became postmaster and also express agent at
Homerville, positions which he held up to his death. In
1 89 1 he was elected treasurer of Clinch County, and was
commissioned July 27th, 1891. He was elected at a special
election to succeed Henry C. Moore, deceased. Not long
afterwards Mr. Smith died at his home in Homerville, Octo-
ber 2 1st, 1 89 1. His widow and children now live in Tampa,
Florida.

STATEN, JAMES W., was bom in Appling County,
August 29th, 1824, the son of Barzilla Staten, Sr., who died
about 1845. H^^ educational advantages were such as offered
by the neighborhood schools, furnishing him with a knowl-
edge of only the primary branches, and merely laying a foun-
dation for the education which reading and observation be-
stowed upon him after leaving the school house. Farming
was his life-long occupation. He was one of the pioneers of
Clinch County, and in April, 1850 was elected the first rep-
resentative from the new county of Clinch to the Legislature.
In 1852 he was re-elected, ably ^representing the county in
legislative halls. In 1857 he was elected a State senator from
Clinch County and served one term. In politics Mr. Staten
was a Whig before the war, but joined the Democrats about
i860, and after the Civil War he became one of the pillars
of the Democratic Party in this section of the State. In 1861
he entered the Confederate service as first lieutenant in Co.
"B*' 29th Georgia Regiment. He was elected captain of his
company in Col. A. T. Mclntyre's Regiment. He served in
this until the State troops were disbanded, after which be was
on the Relief Committee and was in Atlanta just before it
surrendered in 1864. He was also a member of the State
convention which assembled at Milledgeville in 1858. In

History of Clinch County, Georgia 297

1858 Echols County was created and this made him a citizen
of that county. In 1876 he was chosen State senator from his
district and re-elected two years later. He had the satisfac-
tory record of having never been defeated for any office he
offered for. In 1846 he married Miss Caroline E. Malloy,
of Branchville, S. C. To them were bom eleven children,
viz.: W. F. Staten, Delia, John B., C. F., Fannie, Bailer,
Catherine, Josephine, J. L., W. T., and Samuel Staten.
Statenville, in Echols County, was named for Captain Staten.
In later years he lived in Lowndes. County, where he died
March 3d, 1892, age 68 years. Captain Staten was a sincere
man in all his actions, one of the solid type whose word was
as good as his bond, totally devoid of all egotism and con-
scientious in the discharge of his duty in its minutest detail.
His daughter, Josephine, married J. N. Griffin, of Valdosta,
and one of their daughters married Dr. L. G. Hardman, who
made such a creditable race for Governor of Georgia in 19 14.

STATEN, QUARTERMAN B., was bom in this State
in 1832, and was a brother of James W. Staten. His wife
was Leacy Malloy, and they had about five children. In the
Civil War he joined Co. "G" 50th Georgia, and was elected
Its first lieutenant; later he was promoted captain October
25th, 1862. He served as captain until March 20th, 1863,
when he resigned but was re-elected captain in July, 1863.
He served until January 1865, when he came home and qual-
ified as a justice of the Inferior Court, to which he was com-
missioned January 23d, 1865. He served in this capacity
until the court was abolished. He lived near Stockton and
died about 1890.

STRICKLAND, CHARLES, was born in what is now
Pierce County, Febmary 22d, 1822. When the Indian war
of 1836-37 came on, he took part in the fighting against the
Indians. In 1 849 he settled on Red Bluff Creek on the place
now owned by A. J. Lockliear. He lived here until 1864,
when he moved up on the AUapaha River, where he lived

298 History of Clinch County, Georgia

until his death. Mr. Strickland married in 1 847 Miss Lucre-
tia Sirmans, daughter of Benjamin Sirmans. By her he had
twelve children: Martha, who married Elias L. Moore;
Mary Ann, who married Daniel Dickerson; Louis; Benja-
min Franklin; Colquitt or Colly; Isabella, who married
Bill K. Roberts; Allen J.; Lucinda, who married Lott; Jo-
seph B. ; Kizzie; Lyman J., and Amanda, who married F. B.
Sirmans. When the Civil War came on, Mr. Strickland
joined the 4th Georgia Cavalry, Co. "I" and served until
January, 1865, when he returned home, having been elected
a justice of the Inferior Court. He served on this court until
it was abolished. Mr. Strickland was one of the wealthiest
men of the county and farmed and dealt in cattle extensively.
By reference to the census of 1870, it is observed that he had
1,200 acres of cultivated land. Mr. Strickland's death oc-
curred at his home in Mud Creek district, where J. B. Strick-
land now lives, November ist, 1883. His remains were
buried at Valdosta.

STRICKLAND, JOEL, was bom in this State in 1830.
He married Miss Amanda Hodges, a sister of Archibald and
John W. Hodges, and to them were bom twelve children.
Mr. Strickland was one of the first settlers of the new town
of Homerville, and was engaged in the mercantile business
and also operated a hotel a while. He was station agent here
several years. He was elected a justice of the Inferior Court
in 1 86 1 and conunissioned September loth, 1861. He served
four years. About 1880 he removed to Plant City, Florida,
where he died about 1890. Mr. Strickland was a leading
member of the Baptist Church at Homerville and was a
charter member.

STRICKLAND, LEWIS, was bom in Clinch County,
February 25th, 1850, the son of Charles and Lucretia Strick-
land. He was probably the first white child bom in the new
county after its creation. He was commissioned ex-officio
justice of the peace of the 586th district July 22d, 1872, and

History of Clinch County, Georgia^ 299^

served until he resigned March 26th, 1875. He entered the
mercantile business and dealt in stock cattle, in which he was
eminently successful. In 1876 he announced as an indepen-
dent candidate for representative and in the ensuing election
defeated the regular Democratic nominee. In 1878 he was
again elected as an independent candidate. Mr. Strickland
was first engaged in business at Milltown, but later went to
Valdosta, where he lived until his death. He was soon fol-
lowed by his brothers, B. F., Colly and A. J. Strickland. Mr.
Strickland engaged with some of his brothers in the cotton
business, later they organized the Strickland Cotton Mills at
Valdosta, and still later, the A. J. Strickland Fertilizer Com-
pany, manufacturers and distributors of guano and other fer-
tilizers. Mr. Strickland several years before his death joined
the Republican Party and was subsequently chairman of the
Republican district executive committee. In this capacity Mr.
Strickland wielded a large amount of influence in Federal
appointments in this section, under the Republican adminis-
trations. Mr. Strickland's death occurred in Valdosta April
3d, 1899, ^^^ ^^ was buried in the city cemetery. He never
married and his large estate was left to his brothers and sis-
ters. Mr. Strickland, with his brothers in Valdosta, have been
among the most potent factors in the upbuilding of Valdosta
and its industries.

SWEAT, JOEL L., was born in Ware County, Septem-
ber 2 1st, 1847, ^hc son of Samuel and Maria Sweat, and a
grandson of Nathaniel Sweat, a soldier of the Revolutionary
War. He was raised in Pierce County and completed his
education at the old Blackshear Academy. He enlisted in
Confederate cavalry service in 1862, although a youth, and
for three years was a braVe soldier. In 1865 he located at
Homerville, where he was in 1867 elected justice of the peace.
Under David O'Quin he served as deputy clerk of the
Superior Court. He also engaged in the mercantile business
and was admitted to the bar in Homerville in 1869. Under

300 History of Clinch County, Georgia

the administration of Governor James M. Smith he was a
clerk in the executive department for a short while, and dur-
ing the sessions of the Legislature of 1875-76, he was chief
clerk of the House of Representatives. Returning to Homcr-
ville he resumed the practice of law, which very soon grew
to be very lucrative and of wide extent. In 1880 Colonel
Sweat was elected representative from Clinch County, de-
feating A. B. Findley and Sherod Tomlinson. Two years
later he was re-elected, defeating David J. Sirmans. In 1884
he was a delegate to the Democratic National Convention at
Chicago and at St. Louis in 1888. In 1887 he removed to
Waycross, where he has since resided, engaging in the active
practice of law. In 1892 Judge S. R. Atkinson resigned as
judge of the Superior Courts of the Brunswick Circuit, and
Colonel Sweat was appointed by Governor Northen to fill
the vacancy. When the Legislature met he was elected judge
for the unexpired term, and in 1895 was elected for the full
term. He very ably filled this position until January, 1899,
when he retired and resumed the practice of law. During
the Legislature of 19 13-14 he was State senator from the
fifth district. Colonel Sweat was marfied to Miss Maggie M.
Hitch, daughter of Sylvanus Hitch, January loth, 1869, ^^^
by her had three children. Colonel Sweat was for several
years superintendent of the Methodist Sunday School at
Homerville, and for seven years a recording stewar4 of the
church. His membership is now with the First Methodist
Church of Waycross.

SWEAT, SCREVEN A., was bom in Ware County, May
1 2th, 1872, the son of T. F. M. Sweat. He came with his
father to Clinch County in 1880, and settled in the Wire-
grass district. Later he came to Homerville, where he was
appointed postmaster in 1894. He held this office two years
and in 1897 was elected constable of the 1224th district.
Shortly afterwards Sheriff O'Steen appointed him deputy
sheriff, in which capacity he served until 1901. In 1900 he

History of Clinch County, Georgia 301

was elected sheriff of Clinch County, defeating Ex-Sheriff
Frank Dickerson by 255 votes. In the general election he
easily defeated his Populist opponent, I. W. Baldree. By
continuous re-elections he held this office until 1 909, January
1st, when he retired. He was not a candidate for re-election.
Later he entered the mercantile business in Homerville. Mr.
Sweat married Miss Cora Smith, daughter of Charlton H.
Smith, of Homerville.

SWEAT, THOMAS F. M., was bom in Ware County,
November 19th, 1847. He came to Clinch County in 1880,
and settled in the Wiregrass district. Soon afterwards he
was appointed ex-officio justice of the peace of the 1 141st dis-
trict and commissioned October 15th, 1880. He served until
1885, when he was elected justice of the peace, serving four
years. In 1889 he was again appointed ex-officio justice of
the peace. Before his term expired he removed to Homer-
ville, where he was appointed deputy sheriff and jailor under
Sheriff Frank Dickerson. In 1901 he was appointed jailor by
his son, Sheriff S. A: Sweat. He also served a few years on
the town council. In 1909 he was elected county treasurer,
defeating J. S. Kirkland, W. A. Ecord and James L. Pafford.
In 1 9 10 he was again elected treasurer, defeating Seward
Smith, Randall Corbitt, J. D. Weaver and T. N. Stanfield.
He did not offer for re-election in 191 2. Mr. Sweat was mar-
ried in 1870 to Miss Alice , by whom he had six

children, viz.: Screven A., Jerome J., R. W., Stella, who
married W. K. Peagler; Kate, who married B. W. Wagner;
Tressie, who married H. E. Darley. Mr. Sweat has long
been a member of the Methodist Church, and has served as
recording steward, Sunday School superintendent and church
steward. He was engaged in retail hay and grain business
in Homerville previous to his death, which occurred July
nth, 1916.

TAYLOR, JACKSON J., was born in what is now Clinch
County, December i8th, 1847, the sdn of John E. Taylor,

302 History of Clinch County, Georgia

who was a native of Chatham County. He was raised on his
father's farm south of Stockton, and in 1876 was elected
county surveyor, defeating George A. Dame, and in 1 878 was
re-elected. He married May 28th, 1882, Miss Cordelia
Dampier, and after her death married in 1904, Miss Fannie
Grooms. He had eight children. In 1886 Mr. Taylor joined
the Methodist Church at Stockton, and subsequently served
the church as steward for six years. Mr. Taylor is a farmer
and runs a grist-mill on Cow Creek.

TIMMERMAN, SHIMUEL, was bom in Edgefield
County, S. C, November 24th, 1824, and when not yet
grown came to Georgia. In 1850, when Clinch County was
created, he was. one of its citizens, and in 1852 was elected
justice of the peace of the io52d district, serving until 1853.
In 1856 he was elected sheriff of Clinch County, serving two
years. In 1858 he was elected a justice of the Inferior Court,
serving three years. In 1861 he was again elected sheriff,
serving until 1862. In 1864 he was re-elected, serving until
1866. Mr. Timmerman married, about 1850, Miss Eliza L.
Findley, daughter of Acy Findley, and by her had eight sons
and two daughters. Mr. Timmerman died at his home, near
Stockton, May 26th, 1889, and was buried at Cow Creek
(Way fare) Church. He was a member of the Primitive
Baptist Church for many years.

TOMLINSON, JAMES, was born in what is now Clinch
County, August 21st, 1846, the son of Harris Tomlinson, Sr.
In the Civil War he served in Co. "K" 29th Georgia Regi-
ment. After the war he taught school some, and was in 1871
elected clerk of the Superior Court. He served two years.
He was first married to Miss Mattie Floyd, of Liberty
County, by whom he had two children; after her death, he
married Miss Martha M. Mills, August 24th, 1874; after
her death, he married Mrs. Calladonia G. Roberts, she died
1906. For many years Mr. Tomlinson was a postal clerk on
the railroad, his run being from Savannah to High Springs.

History of Clinch County, Georgia 303

He died April 27th, 19 10, and was buried in the city ceme-
tery at Waycross.

TOMLINSON, MOSES, was bom in Lowndes, now
Clinch County, December 29th, 1840, the son of John and
Zilpha (Register) Tomlinson. He was raised on the farm,
and in 1861 joined Co. **H" 29th Georgia Regiment. He
was disabled by the loss of his left arm on the third anniver-
sary of the date he joined the army, at the engagement near
Jonesboro, Ga., August 31st, 1864. After this he returned
home, and was, in 1872, elected Ordinary of Clinch County,
defeating John L. Morgan. He was re-elected in 1876 and
served until 1881. In 1883 he was elected justice of the
peace of the 105 2d district and served two years. In 1888 he
was elected tax collector of Clinch County and commissioned
January 7th, 1889. He served in this capacity eight years,
being defeated in 1896 by M. M. Monk. He was married
March 12th, 1876, to Miss Wealthy E. Mathis, daughter of
Hillery P. Mathis, by whom he had five sons and four
daughters. In 19 10 he was appointed a jury commissioner,
but declined to serve. Mr. Tomlinson has been urged fre-
quently in the last few years to run for representative from
Clinch County, but has declined on each occasion. His ripe
experience and a master mind, even in his advanced age,
would enable him to make Clinch County an excellent repre-
sentative in the Legislature. As tax collector he made the
county an efficient officer; among other things closing his
books promptly on the twentieth of December as the law re-
quires.

TOMLINSON, SHEROD, was born in Irwin, now
Clinch County, February 6th, 1826, the son of Moses and
Charlotte Tomlinson. In early life he was married to Miss
Sarah Ann Burkhalter, a daughter of Richard H. Burkhalter,
and had ten children. May iith, 1852, Mr. Tomlinson was
commissioned a justice of the peace of the 105 2d district and
served three years. On January loth, 1861, he was commis-

304 History of Clinch County, Georgia

sioned a justice of the Inferior Court of Clinch County, and
served until September loth, 1861. Ini86ihe joined Co.
"H" 29th Georgia Regiment and served until 1864, when
be returned home and qualified as coroner, to which he had
been elected. He served as coroner four years. In 1880 he
was defeated for representative by Col. J. L. Sweat. During
1 877-1 88 1 he was a member of the Board of Education.
His death occurred at his home in Mud Creek, December
26th, 1885. He was buried at the Fender graveyard.

TOMLINSON, WILLIAM S., was bom in Emanuel
County in 1822, the son of William Tomlinson and Bettie
Sirmans. He was a farmer all his life, and accumulated quite
a lot of property. He married Matilda Giddens in 1846,
and their children were John G., Kizzie, Isbin, Matthew,
and George F. Tomlinson. Mr. Tomlinson was, in 1856,
elected representative from Clinch County, defeating Man-
ning Smith. He served through the session of 1857-58, and
after missing one term, was, in i860, again elected repre-
sentative and re-elected in 1862. He served through the ses-
sions of 1861-62 and 1863-64. He lived many years on the
place now owned by W. F. Kirkland, but at the time of his
death lived with his son, Matthew Tomlinson. He died about
1898, and is buried at North cemetery. His son, Isbin Tom-
linson, was acting clerk of the Superior Court of this county
a short while following the resignation of B. R. Johnson, in
1883.

TOWNSEND, SINCLAIR C, was bom in Wayne
County, June 3d, 1870. When he was about five years old
his parents moved to Bradford County, Fla., and when not
yet grown began teaching school. He taught in the fall and
winter seasons and attended high school at White Springs
during the spring and summer seasons. He graduated from
the Florida Normal School and Business College at White
Springs in 1892, and then tkught school until 1895. He was
enrolling clerk in the House of Representatives at Tallahas-

History of Clinch County, Georgia 305

see during the session of 1895. In May, 1896, he was ad*
mitted to the bar at Thomasville, Ga., and a few days there*
after was appointed deputy clerk of the Circuit Court of
Bradford County, which position he resigned in October,
J 896. He then came to Homerville and formed a partner-
ship with Col. R. G. Dickerson for the practice of law. He
was married August 31st, 1897, t^ ^^^s Effie Gillican from
Wilmington, N. C. January ist, 1898, the law partnership
of Dickerson & Townsend was dissolved and Colonel Town-
send continued to practice alone. He was appointed judge
of the County Court of Clinch County by Governor Candler,
in 1 90 1, but resigned in 1904 before his term was out. In the
primary of 1902 he was narrowly defeated for representa-
tive by R. B. Johnson. In the primary of 1904 he was de-
feated by J. F. Daugharty. In 1 906 he was elected represen-
tative, defeating E. J. Futch. During the ensuing session
Judge Townsend introduced and had passed the present
law providing for jury trial in the County Court. He opposed
the present prohibition law, which was passed by the Legis-
lature. He was defeated for re-election in 1908 by Col. S. L.
Drawdy. In November, 1908, he was appointed by Governor
Smith Solicitor of the City Court of St. Mary's, Ga., and
moved there in February, 1909, and was re-appointed by
Governor Brown in 191 2, which he still holds. Previous to
his removal to St. Mary's he formed a partnership with Col.
H. J. Dame, which was dissolved in 1909. On May aad,
1 9 13, he was appointed by President Wilson as collector of
customs for the port of St. Mary's, which position he held
until the coUectorship was abolished and consolidated with
the port of Femandina, Fla. In 191 1 he was elected presi-
dent of the County Officers Convention of Georgia at Savan-
nah, and in 191 2 was re-elected at St. Mary's.

THOMAS, BENJAMIN FRANKUN, was born in
Clinch County, April 5th, 1882, and was raised on the farm.
He was employed by Mr. D. E. Kirkland for several years
and later entered the livery business. He was elected Coroner
in 1 9 14, defeating Dixon Smith, and J. F. Newman. In the

3o6 History of Clinch County, Georgia

primary of 1916 he was defeated for tax receiver, running
second on the ticket. He is not married.

WILLIAMS, JOHN, was bom about 1830, the son of
John Williams, Sr., and his wife Nancy Smith. He was
elected representative from Clinch County in 1859, defeating
J. R. 0*Steen. He served through the session of 1 859-1 860.
He married a daughter of John L. Morgan, by whom he had
three sons and a daughter, viz. : Sylvester, Lemuel and Pres-
ton and Roxie, who married N. J. Smith. In 1864 Mr. Wil-
liams was killed by a deserter from the Confederate army. Mr.
Williams was acting as a recruiting officer in this section, and
endeavored to arrest the deserter, but was killed. His slayer
was later captured by a detachment of soldiers headed by
Lieut. John L. Morgan, Jr., and brought to Homerville,
where he was executed by being hung from a pine tree in the
southern part of town.

WHITTINGTON, BENJAMIN A., was bom in Au-
gusta, Ga., March 15th, 1856, the son of John A. Whitting-
ton. He came with his parents to Clinch County when he
was twelve years old, and lived in Homerville until his death.
In 1 8 8 1 he was admitted to the bar at Homerville, and under
Abraham Morgan served as deputy clerk of the Superior
Court a while. In 1 884 he was appointed judge of the County
Court of Clinch County, and served until the court was
abolished. Colonel Whittington*s wife was Miss Maggie
Johnson, daughter of John J. Johnson, of Homerville. They
had several children, of whom only one, Harry, lived to be
grown. Colonel Whittington actively practiced law in Homer-
ville until his death, which occurred August 5th, 1898, at his
home in Homerville. He died of paralysis. His remains were
buried in the Homerville cemetery. His death was the occa-
sion of resolutions passed by the. local bar at the succeeding
term of Superior Court. Colonel Whittington was a member
of the Methodist Church and of the Masons. He was for
several years a member of the Board of Commissioners for
the town of Homerville and later of the town council.

EXTENSION OF

CHAPTER XL

THE LASTINGER FAMILY*

THE progenitor of this family in America was John Las-
tinger. He was a native of Germany and was born prob-
ably about 1740. He came to America and landed at
Charleston, S. C, about 1760. It is not known what was his
wife's name other than he met her on the ship they were com-
ing across in. In a few years this couple came to Georgia, and
the records in Atlanta show that he was granted a land head-
right of one hundred acres in 1767. In 1769 he was given a
similar grant. Both of these grants were in St. Phillips parish,
later divided into counties of Effingham and Chatham.

The children of John Lastinger and his wife, were : George,
bom 1775; Milly, who married William Driggers; Andrew,
born 1777, who married Mary Parker; Elizabeth (died in
infancy) ; Tobitha, who married a BuUard ; David, whose
wife was Dinah; Sarah, who married William Parker; and
Hannah, who married John Groover, and a daughter who
married a Weaver.

Children of George Lastinger: Andrew, who married
Sarah McDonald; Shadarach; Polly, who married John
Rymes; Elizabeth, who married a Willis; Fannie, who mar-
ried Noah Tice, and Mehala, who married a McNeil. Chil-
dren of Andrew Lastinger: Elisha; Barbara, who married
William Youmans; Susan, who married Elijah Adams (died)
and LaFayette Gault, second husband; Louisa, who married
Timothy Alderman, tax collector of Clinch County; Alfred
Lastinger; Mary, who married Harmon Adams; William;

*I am indebted for this information to Mr. W. W. Lastinger, whose highly
interesting genealogical table of the Lastinger family was loa,ned to me to
be guided by in the above sketch. The above is not given further than the
third generation from John Lastinger. — ^Author.

3o8 History of Clinch County, Georgia

Clayton; Bartlett; Jackson, and Jane, who married B. T.
Altman.

Children of Milly and William Driggers : Jonas and Wil-
laim Driggers, Jr.; Sarah, who married Dixon Bennett, of
Clinch County ; Rebecca, who married Harris Tomlinson, of
Clinch County; Ellen, who married Seaborn Lastinger, who
was bom in 1805, and two other daughters, names unknown.

Children of Andrew Lastinger, bom 1777: Guilford, who
was the first Ordinary of Clinch County; Sallie (died in
girlhood) ; Seabom, bom 1805; Annis, who married James
Lastinger, and William Lastinger, bom 1 804, who married
Louisa English. Children of Guilford Lastinger by his first
wife, Sarah Mikel: Andrew, who married Eliza Bostick;
James, who married Nancy Corbett; Charles, who married
Susan Whitehurst; Guilford T., who married Nicy Mc-
Donald; David (never married) ; Annis (died in girlhood),
and Seabom, who married Sarah Bostick. Children of Guil-
ford Lastinger by his second wife, Isabella Brack: Mrs. Ruby
Eason, Mrs. Isabella Crosby, Mrs. Grant Steedley, and Mrs.
Lee Powell.

Children of William Lastinger, bom 1804, died 1893,
and who was an early pioneer of Clinch County : Henry A.,
who married Emma J. Senquefield; Peter C, married Syl-
vania Ison; Seabom, (never married) ; Annis, who married
Robert Elliott ; Elizabeth, who married William Wilkerson ;
Lacy E., who married Sophronia Williams; William H.,
married Georgia A. Jones; Joshua L., married Louisa Bow-
den; Jane, who married William McDonald; Kansas, who
married F. M. Smith; Nebraska, who married Dr. J. G.
Edie, and Arizona, who married Robt. K. Tumer.

Children of David and Dinah Lastinger: James, John,
Elias, Peter, William and Elizabeth, who married William
May.

Children of Sarah and William Parker: William, Jr.,
Calvin and Simeon Parker.

Children of Hannah and John Groover: Elizabeth^ who

History of Clinch County, Georgia 309

married a Millen; Barbara, who married James English;
James, John and Abncr Groover.

The following Lastingers were lost in the Civil War:
Andrew, James, Charles, David, "Seaborn, Seaborn (2d),
Elias, W. H., and Elias Lastinger (2d), while the foUowing
others participated: Guilford T., John, Henry A., Peter C,
Lacy E., Wm. H., Joshua B,, James, John (2d), and prob-
ably others.

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