Virginia

Biographical Sketch of John P. Nelson

John P. Nelson, born in Virginia in 1860 and educated at the University of Virginia, became the principal of Fannin College in Texas shortly after its incorporation in 1883. His leadership resulted in a significant increase in enrollment from 99 to 140 students within his first year. A well-regarded scholar and gentleman, Nelson quickly earned respect among patrons and peers, establishing himself as a prominent figure in Texas education within a brief period.

Biography of C. W. T. Weldon

C. W. T. Weldon, born in Virginia in 1830, moved to Texas in 1852 and initially worked as a dry goods clerk. Despite suffering significant losses during the Civil War, he demonstrated resilience and pragmatism by rebuilding his business and successfully establishing himself as a prominent banker. He serves as president of the First National Bank of Honey Grove and is a significant stakeholder in the First National Bank of Bonham. Weldon is recognized for his integrity and willingness to support worthy ventures in Fannin County.

Biographical Sketch of Fenn, F. M. O.

Francis Marion Oatis Fenn, born in Fort Bend County, Texas, was the son of early Texas settlers. He received his education at Roanoke College and the University of Virginia, earning oratory medals at both institutions. Active in local politics, Fenn campaigned for key positions in Harris County and played a significant role in the Jaybird Democratic Constitution. Elected as County Attorney in 1900 and reelected in 1902, he was married to Lottie Benson and had one son, Rutherford.

Biography of Jones, Henry

Henry Jones, born in Virginia in 1798, became one of the Old Three Hundred in Austin’s colony. In 1817, he embarked on an adventurous journey with his brother, becoming a trapper and hunter in Arkansas. After surviving a fierce attack by hostile Indians, he settled in Texas, eventually marrying Nancy Styles. They had twelve children, with William being the first child born in Austin’s colony. Known for his hospitality, Jones welcomed travelers and was an integral figure in early Texas history until his death in 1861.

Biographical Sketch of Cariesman, Horatio

Horatio Cariesman, born in Virginia in 1792, moved to Kentucky and later Missouri, where he engaged in surveying. He immigrated to Texas in 1822, settling near the Colorado River after a challenging journey marked by illness and tragedy. Cariesman served as a surveyor under General Austin and later held the position of alcalde in San Felipe. He was involved in military efforts during the Texas Revolution, though he missed the significant battle of San Jacinto. Cariesman passed away in Burleson County in 1848.

Biography of Austin, Stephen F.

Stephen F. Austin, entrusted by his father Moses to settle Texas, faced significant challenges following his father’s death. After securing a land grant and navigating early setbacks, he guided the first group of immigrants to Texas, laying the foundation for future settlements. Austin’s leadership was pivotal during the Texas Revolution, where he served as a military commander and later as Secretary of State. His dedication to the colonists and enduring struggles ultimately led to his death in December 1836, marking the loss of a key figure in Texas history.

Biographical Sketch of Jeremiah C. Cravens

Jeremiah C. Cravens was born on February 18, 1838, in Saline County, Missouri, to Dr. John Cravens. He graduated from Missouri State University in 1860. During the Civil War, he served as an aide-de-camp to General Slack, participating in key battles including Pea Ridge and Lone Jack. After the war, he studied law, practiced in Batesville, Arkansas, and moved to Springfield in 1868. Cravens is recognized as a prominent lawyer and has served on the University Board of Curators for a decade. He married Annie D. Smith in 1864.

Biography of Rev. William Jackson Haydon

Rev. William Jackson Haydon, born on June 8, 1835, near Lynchburg, Virginia, was the third of six children. Educated in Virginia and West Virginia, he engaged in mercantile and teaching careers before moving to Missouri in 1860. A dedicated church leader, he organized schools and contributed to Sunday school missions in Missouri, Arkansas, and Texas. Haydon was ordained in 1878 and became a prominent advocate for temperance, a community organizer, and a respected Christian worker. He married Maggie C. Ford, with whom he had six children.

Biography of Tyree Glenn Newbill

Tyree Glenn Newbill, born on May 17, 1882, in Franklin County, Virginia, was a prominent agriculturalist and stock breeder. After marrying Nancy A. Johnson in 1846, he moved to Southwest Missouri, where he significantly contributed to local agriculture. He was active in the Southwest District Agricultural and Mechanical Association, serving as president before the Civil War. Newbill supported the Confederacy and was involved in stock business in Texas, where he mysteriously disappeared in December 1864. He left behind a wife and six children.

Biography of Judge William Cecil Price

William Cecil Price, born on April 1, 1816, in Russell County, Virginia, was an influential legal figure in Missouri. After studying at Knoxville College, he taught school and practiced law, eventually holding various civic positions, including deputy sheriff and justice of the Greene County court. He served as a probate judge and was elected to the State Senate. During the Civil War, he joined the Confederate service. Post-war, he resumed his legal career and settled in Springfield. Price was married twice and had several children.

Biography of Jacob Holland Powers

Jacob Holland Powers, born September 24, 1807, in Virginia, was a key figure in the development of Page County, Iowa. After moving to Indiana in his youth, he established a successful mercantile business in Clarinda and became a significant landowner. Powers was known for his generosity and community support, engaging in various civic activities, including membership in Masonic organizations. He was twice married and had several children. Powers passed away on February 14, 1884, leaving a lasting legacy in the region’s history.

Biography of John Fosha

John Fosha, a prominent farmer from Silver Creek township, Stephenson County, Illinois, has built a successful agricultural legacy through hard work and tenacity. Originating from a German immigrant family, he has amassed significant real estate in both Illinois and Kansas. Fosha’s farming methods focus on maximizing livestock production, and he has cultivated a highly productive home farm. Married in 1856, he and his wife Mina raised twelve children. A respected community member, he has witnessed the transformation of northern Illinois from wilderness to fertile farmland.