Bedford County TN

Genealogy of the Davidson family of the Duck River Valley

Genealogy of the Davidson family of the Duck River Valley

This small booklet showcases the authors research on the Davidson family of the Duck River Valley. The genealogy starts with John Davidson of Iredell, North Carolina and advances through his son, the Revolutionary War soldier William Davidson, and his wife Margaret McConnell of Buncombe County, North Carolina. Next in line, and the first to settle the Duck River Valley is John Davidson, the eldest son of William and Margaret. He and his wife Martha Davidson settled near Knob Creek, Bedford County, Tennessee. John’s brother, Hugh, and his wife Jane Vance, settled in the Duck River Valley east of Normandy in at the time, Coffee County, Tennessee. This genealogy treats the Davidson family through several more generations. It is free to read or download.

Slave Narrative of George W. Arnold

George W. Arnold, born April 7, 1861, in Bedford County, Tennessee, recounts his life as a slave on Oliver P. Arnold’s plantation and the Civil War’s impact on his family. After emancipation, he faced challenges, including the loss of familial bonds and friendships. Arnold’s later experiences as a roust-about on riverboats were marked by camaraderie but also harsh treatment. He settled in Evansville in 1880, working as a porter for 37 years. Despite personal tragedies, including the haunting memory of a dear friend, he reflected on forgiveness and the perils of strong drink.

Slave Narrative of Sylvia Watkins

Sylvia Watkins, a 91-year-old former slave from Nashville, Tennessee, recounts her life experiences during and after slavery. Born in Bedford County, she reflects on family separations, hardships, and the limited leisure time available to enslaved people. She describes her upbringing under the care of Emily Hatchet and her experiences of working in the fields, weaving clothes, and making small joys from her circumstances. Sylvia discusses her marriages, raising a child, and her views on race relations, revealing the persistent struggles faced by ex-slaves in their search for stability.

Biography of Ward Smith

Ward Smith, born on May 22, 1888, in Tullahoma, Tennessee, became secretary and manager of the grain department at the Hunter-Robinson Milling Grain Company. He began his career as a clerk with the Illinois Central Railroad and progressed through various roles, gaining significant business experience. Smith married Martha Allen Martin in 1917 and has a son named Martin. An active community member, he is involved in various organizations but has remained focused on his business career, achieving notable success through perseverance and dedication.

Biography of James Hailey

James Hailey, the oldest resident of Ava, was born on February 7, 1824, in Tennessee. He moved to Missouri with his family in 1839 and pursued a successful political career, serving as county clerk, probate judge, and postmaster. A Democrat and Civil War veteran, he was active in community affairs and was involved in shaping the town of Ava. Married to Mary C. Rowe, they had nine children. Hailey also operated a hotel for nearly twenty years, gaining a reputation as a respected citizen.

Biography of Amelia Couch

Amelia Couch, born on November 25, 1838, in Tennessee, overcame life’s hardships with grace and wisdom. After her family moved to Missouri, she completed her education in Iowa. Married to R.T. Couch, they established their home in Union County, where she managed their eighty-acre farm following her husband’s death in 1888. Renowned for her strength in raising a large family, Amelia was an active member of the Baptist church and is respected for her contributions to her community and faith.

Biography of George B. Balch

George B. Balch, born in Bedford County, Tennessee, on November 1, 1828, was a farmer who also served as the Postmaster and agent for the G. M. R. R. in Larna. His parents, Alfred and Elizabeth Balch, settled in Pleasant Grove Township in 1830, where they lived until their deaths. George married Margaret S. Walker in 1851, and they had eleven children. He established the Larna post office, aiming to develop the area into a town, demonstrating his commitment to community growth.

Biography of Charles T. Carpenter

Charles T. Carpenter, a prominent banker in Coffeyville, served as vice president of the Condon National Bank for thirty years. Born in 1858 in Tennessee, he descended from a line of early American settlers with Revolutionary War ancestors. His wife, Temple W. Carpenter, is a notable figure in Southern Kansas, actively involved in social and educational initiatives, including leadership roles in the local library and school board. The Carpenters had seven children who continued the family’s legacy in banking and education.

Biography of Charles Squirrel

Charles Squirrel, born on September 11, 1896, in Matoka, Oklahoma, is a prominent young businessman in Bartlesville with a successful farm and oil interests. Orphaned at a young age, he was adopted and educated across several institutions. At nineteen, he ventured into independence, establishing a commendable career in oil and agriculture. Married to Edna Swinney, he faced personal tragedy with the loss of their daughter, Georgia. Squirrel is recognized for his integrity and business acumen, having achieved success from humble beginnings.

Biography of Milton Gooddell Young

Milton Gooddell Young, born on February 15, 1884, in Florence, Alabama, is a prominent figure in Muskogee’s financial community as President of the Security State Bank. He began his career at fifteen alongside his father in banking, eventually moving to various positions in Texas and Oklahoma, culminating in the establishment of his own bank in 1919. Married to Mary A. Jackson, he is a family man and community supporter, involved in local organizations and fraternal associations, contributing to his reputation as a respected banker and community member.