Gibson County TN

Slave Narrative of Nathan Jones

Nathan Jones, born in 1858 in Gibson County, Tennessee, was the son of a slave and experienced severe cruelty under his master, Parker Crimm. His stepfather, Willis Jones, attempted to escape slavery but ultimately was sold. Nathan recalled brutal punishments inflicted on slaves. After marrying early and facing hardships, he moved to Missouri and then Indiana with his six children following his first wife’s death. Now remarried with four more children, the Jones family leads a modest but content life, supported by their church and old age pension.

Biography of Fenton T. Stockard

Fenton T. Stockard

Fenton T. Stockard, born December 16, 1867, in Gibson County, Tennessee, is a prominent attorney in Billings, where he has practiced law since 1891. He began his legal career after studying under Hon. H. E. Howell and has gained recognition for his skills. The son of C. H. and Patience E. Stockard, he grew up in a family of six children and has roots in both Irish and French heritage. Mr. Stockard married Mignonette Gregory in 1893 and is known for his Republican advocacy and public spirit.

Biography of C. H. Stockard

C. H. Stockard, born on February 25, 1835, in Gibson County, Tennessee, has significantly contributed to the prosperity of Christian County, Missouri, since 1879. A veteran of the Civil War, he overcame personal losses, including the deaths of two wives and his children, while building a successful farming career. Stockard, a self-made man, is noted for his community involvement and Republican activism. He has raised a family and prioritized their education, reflecting his commitment to both personal and communal advancement.

Biography of David B. Young

David B. Young, born June 1, 1850, in Gibson County, Tennessee, moved to Ripley County, Missouri, with his father at age eight. His father, a Federal soldier, died during the Civil War. David married twice, first to Sarah V. Kittrell and later to Mary J. Jones, fathering three children. A farmer, carpenter, and educator, he held various political roles, including sheriff and collector. Active in community development, he contributed to local businesses and infrastructure, reflecting his strong ties to the region.

Biographical Sketch of Harwood Wilson

Harwood Wilson was born on January 15, 1880, in Trenton, Tennessee, to R. D. and Lydia R. Harwood Wilson. He received his education in the local public schools and later married Charlotte Virginia Greggard in Trenton on December 30, 1903, with whom he had one daughter. Wilson worked as an assistant resident manager at The Rogers, Brown Co. and was also a member of the Hermit Club.

Biography of Neil Baxter Gardner

Neil Baxter Gardner, born on October 12, 1875, in Tennessee, has served as Superintendent of the Oklahoma State Home for Orphans in Pryor since 1915, appointed by Governor R. L. Williams and later reappointed by Governor Robertson. He has an extensive career spanning law, mercantile, and agriculture, including roles in the Constitutional Convention for statehood and as steward of the Western Oklahoma Hospital. Gardner is actively involved in his community, supports the Democratic Party, and is a member of the Methodist Church, alongside his wife, who serves as head matron of the institution.