Fayetteville Arkansas

Governor Stokes’s Uncompleted Plans

In March 1836, Governor Stokes became the sub-agent for the Cherokee, Seneca, and Shawnee tribes at Fort Gibson, receiving a modest salary of $750 annually. He faced numerous challenges, including a cramped office space and subordination to a disbursing officer, complicating his relations with the tribes. Stokes advocated for the rights of the Half-Breed reserves of the Osage Nation but struggled to secure assistance for them. Despite his dedication, his term ended without reappointment, and he passed away in November 1842, leaving a significant legacy.

The Cherokee Revolt – Indian Wars

The Cherokee Revolt in 1872 began after a violent confrontation between U.S. Deputy Marshals and a group of armed individuals in the Cherokee Nation, sparked by tensions surrounding a suspected murderer, Proctor. On April 13, a surprise attack by armed individuals resulted in the deaths of seven marshals and three assailants, with many others wounded. The swift government response helped contain the situation and prevent a broader uprising among the Cherokees against U.S. authority, highlighting tensions exacerbated by lawlessness and outside influences.

Slave Narrative of Aunt Adeline

Aunt Adeline, born into slavery around 1848 in Hickmon County, Tennessee, reflects on her life serving the Parks family over five generations. She recalls her early experiences, including performing for stagecoach passengers and her strong bond with her mother, Liza. Despite the oppressive environment, she was treated well and remained loyal to the Blakely family after the Civil War. Her narrative highlights the challenges of slavery, the impact of the Civil War on families, and her perseverance, as she continues to lead an active life in her later years.

Biographical Sketch of Herbert W. Hicks

Abijah Hicks, born March 2, 1819, married Hannah Worcester in 1852, and they had five children, including Herbert Worcester Hicks, born May 18, 1861. Herbert married Rachel Cardwell in 1886, and they had six children, among them Ethel Inez and Homer Wilton. Herbert’s Cherokee name is E-no-li; he descends from notable Cherokee figures, including his mother, the daughter of early missionary Reverend Samuel A. Worcester, and his father, a descendant of Chief Charles Hicks.

Slave Narrative of R. C. Smith

R. C. Smith, a former slave and now a prophet, recounts memories of his life under slavery, the hardships faced, and his family’s history, including his father’s resistance to being whipped. He reflects on his youth, his father’s kindness from their master, and the transition to freedom after the Civil War. Despite struggles, including the loss of family during the war, he achieved independence and became a cowboy. Smith also shares visions and experiences of spiritual significance, believing in his prophetic abilities and treasure hunting endeavors.

Biography of Allan Arthur Gilbert, M.D.

Dr. Allan Arthur Gilbert, born on May 26, 1890, in Burrton, Kansas, is a prominent internist based in St. Louis. He graduated from Washington University in 1914 and served in World War I as a captain in Base Hospital No. 21. Post-war, he specialized in internal medicine and has been actively involved in various medical societies and community service, including Red Cross work. Married in 1920, Dr. Gilbert is also a musician and supports Boy Scouts, reflecting his commitment to public welfare and education.

Biography of Frank Pace

Frank Pace, born on July 25, 1871, in Boone County, Arkansas, is a prominent young attorney in northwest Arkansas. He pursued law under his father, Capt. W. F. Pace, after briefly attending the State University at Fayetteville. Admitted to the bar at nineteen, he established a successful practice first in Harrison and then in Yellville, becoming the leading attorney in the area. Known for his skills in criminal law, he is a Democratic candidate for prosecuting attorney of the Fourteenth Judicial District.

Slave Narrative of Miss Adeline Blakeley

Miss Adeline Blakeley, born in 1850 in Tennessee, recalls her early life as a slave in Arkansas, where she was treated affectionately by the Parks family. She shares memories of the Civil War, noting the presence of both Union and Confederate troops and the hardships faced during that time. After the war, she expresses a longing for education that was denied to her as a slave. Blakeley describes her life post-war, including supporting the Blakeley family and her experiences with community, hardship, and resilience.

Biography of James L. McCoy

James L. McCoy, born on May 21, 1862, in Atchison County, Missouri, became a significant figure in the lumber industry in Kansas and Arkansas. A pioneer in Oklahoma, McCoy established himself as a lumber dealer in Coffeyville, where he also managed his family’s estate. His entrepreneurial efforts included sawmills in Horatio, Arkansas, and various real estate holdings. Married to Katie Bretz, a leader in women’s community initiatives, they raised ten children, many of whom followed in his business footsteps, contributing to the local industry.

Biography of J. R. Graves, M. D.

Dr. J. R. Graves, born on November 29, 1883, in Logan County, Arkansas, began his medical career after a successful eleven-year teaching stint. He graduated from the University of Arkansas in 1914 and opened his practice in Council Hill, Oklahoma, before relocating to Boynton in 1919. A dedicated physician and surgeon, he has built a substantial practice while also serving the Transcontinental Oil Company and local community roles, including health officer and school board clerk. He and his wife, Elizabeth, have one son and are active members of their community and church.

Biography of Albert N. Earnest, M. D.

Dr. Albert N. Earnest, born on September 13, 1890, in Muskogee County, Oklahoma, is a respected surgeon known for his contributions to medicine. After earning a Mechanical Engineering degree from the University of Arkansas in 1907, he graduated from the University of Tennessee’s medical program in 1913. He has focused on surgery since settling in Muskogee and served as a captain in the Medical Corps during World War I. Married to Grace Green, they have a daughter, and Dr. Earnest is actively involved in various professional organizations while adhering to strong ethical standards.

Biography of Edward D. Hicks

Edward D. Hicks, born on January 1, 1866, in Fort Gibson, Indian Territory, was a prominent businessman in Tahlequah. He was the only child of Cherokee leaders Daniel R. and Nancy J. Hicks. Educated in the Cherokee Nation and the University of Arkansas, he began his career in a mercantile business before founding the Cherokee Telephone Company in 1895. Hicks became manager when it merged with Southwest Bell in 1905. A committed community member, he actively supported local initiatives and served as a Republican. He married Lizzie Musgrove and had several children.

Biography of Thomas Jefferson Harrison

Thomas Jefferson Harrison, born on March 7, 1885, in Fayetteville, Arkansas, has made significant contributions to the community of Pryor through his entrepreneurial ventures and civic engagement. He successfully operated a news stand and later a jewelry business before becoming president of the Mayes County Abstract Company. An active supporter of local welfare, he helped establish organizations such as the Mayes County Poultry Association and served in various political roles, including mayor. A member of the Knights of Pythias, Harrison remains dedicated to both business and community service.

Biography of R. M. Godfrey

R. M. Godfrey, born June 3, 1887, in Stockport, Ohio, has been a resident of Nowata since 1914. He graduated from Bloomdale High School and Marietta College, later studying law in Arkansas. Godfrey practiced law in Fayetteville for three years before moving to Nowata, where he was appointed county judge in 1918. A Democrat and active in civic affairs, he supports various community initiatives and organizations. He is married to Grace Rowles, and they have one child.

Biographical Sketch of Zeb Pettigrew Jackson

Zeb Pettigrew Jackson, born on August 10, 1886, in Fayetteville, Arkansas, is a prominent real estate professional in Muskogee. He partnered with his father in 1908 in the insurance and real estate business, continuing alone after his father’s death in 1918. Jackson has brokered many significant real estate transactions and maintains a strong client base. He is married to Terry Eberle and has two children. Actively involved in community affairs, he served on the Muskogee park board and engages in various recreational activities and fraternal organizations.

Biographical Sketch of Henry Lee

Henry Lee, born on March 17, 1833, in Pennsylvania, became a prominent figure in Ida County, Iowa, as the proprietor of Summit Heights stock farm. He married Maria Fishburn in 1863, with whom he had four children. A veteran of the Civil War, Lee served as a captain in the 209th Pennsylvania Volunteers, enduring captivity in several Confederate prisons. After the war, he moved to Iowa in 1882, later residing in Arkansas before returning to Ida County, where he became known for his exceptional horses and was active in the G.A.R.