Biographical Sketch of Charles M. Jones

Charles M. Jones, born on August 13, 1836, in Hickman County, Tennessee, dedicated his life to the defense of freedom during the Civil War, enlisting in the First Arkansas Cavalry in 1862. After the war, he moved west with his family, eventually settling in Ontario, Idaho, where he became a successful farmer. Known for his integrity and commitment to community development, Jones is celebrated for his contributions and remains a respected figure, enjoying the fruits of his labor in his later years.

Biography of P. J. Ponder

P. J. Ponder, born in Hickman County, Tennessee, in 1838, moved to Ripley County, Missouri, with his parents in 1843. After the Civil War, he engaged in farming, ultimately acquiring 228 acres of land. Over his life, he experienced three marriages, having children with his third wife, Matilda Murdock. Ponder served as a wagon master during the war and participated in local trade and agriculture. He is noted as a Democrat and a member of the A. O. U. W.

Biography of James Wiley Salmon

James Wiley Salmon, born on February 7, 1826, in Hickman County, Tennessee, achieved significant success through his perseverance in agriculture and stockraising. Orphaned early, he moved to Johnson County, Arkansas, in 1843. He married Sallie Hill in 1844 and settled in Newton County, where he farmed and served as sheriff at various times before the Civil War. Salmon was a soldier in the Union Army and resumed farming after the war. He and his wife had thirteen children and were active in their community and church.

Biography of Abner Jefferson Ponder

Abner Jefferson Ponder, born on December 13, 1822, in Hickman County, Tennessee, exemplifies the self-made American. He overcame early hardships, contributing to his family’s farming efforts while acquiring various trades. In 1867, he opened a successful general store in Doniphan, Missouri, and later served as county treasurer for ten years, recognized for his integrity and public service. A leader in his community and a generous philanthropist, Ponder’s life reflects dedication to both business and civic responsibility, earning him respect across political lines.

Biography of Hon. Andrew J. McCollum

Hon. Andrew J. McCollum, born September 23, 1842, in Hickman County, Tennessee, serves as the circuit clerk of Ripley County, Missouri. After moving to Perry County with his family, he joined the Confederate Army and fought in various battles, enduring imprisonment at Camp Douglas. Post-war, he farmed in Perry County before relocating to Missouri, where he was elected circuit clerk in 1875. He has two marriages, with children from both, and is involved in several local organizations, including the Cumberland Presbyterian Church.

Biography of John Morgan Atkinson

John Morgan Atkinson, born on September 14, 1870, in Hickman County, Tennessee, is a Democratic candidate for clerk of the Ripley County Court. He moved to Ripley County with his family in 1873 and pursued education at local schools, excelling academically. A dedicated educator, he has taught in his district and harbors aspirations to enter the legal profession. Atkinson, known for his industrious nature and abstinence from intoxicants, is involved in community and church activities. He is the son of a Confederate veteran and is set to assume office on January 1, 1895.

Biography of Judge Daniel K. Ponder

Judge Daniel K. Ponder, born in Tennessee in 1831, has significantly influenced Ripley County’s development through his work as county judge since 1890. A former farmer and hotel owner, he demonstrated industriousness and resilience, particularly after setbacks during the Civil War. Ponder is recognized for his fair and judicious handling of legal cases. Married twice, he had several children and is actively involved in community service, including his role in the Cumberland Presbyterian Church and local Masonic lodge. His dedication and leadership have left a lasting legacy.

Biography of Judge Joel G. McClaren

Judge Joel G. McClaren, born on May 14, 1847, in Hickman County, Tennessee, is a prominent figure in Ripley County, Missouri. After serving in the Civil War, he engaged in farming and various enterprises before settling in Ripley County around 1869. McClaren was elected sheriff twice and later became the presiding judge, recognized for his integrity and dedication to public service. A member of the Baptist Church, he has also participated in several fraternal organizations. He is the father of four children, two of whom are deceased.

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.

Biographical Sketch of Guion Gibson

Guion Gibson, originally from Duck River, Tennessee, established himself in what is now Warren County in 1810. He and his wife had several children: Sarah, Rachel, Ellen, Samuel, Joseph, John, Polly, Guion, Jr., and James. Notably, many of his children married into the Sitter and Kennedy families. His sons James, John, and Guion, Jr. served as rangers in Callaway’s company, reflecting the family’s connection to local military service.

Evans, Mary Frances Williams Mrs. – Obituary

Mary Frances Evans, 72, of Baker City, passed away on December 16, 2001. A funeral service will be held on December 19 at the Richland Christian Church, with interment at Eagle Valley Cemetery. Born on August 11, 1929, in Pleasantville, Tennessee, she married Bill Evans in 1957. They later moved to Portland and then returned to Richland after his retirement. A lover of music and the outdoors, she is survived by her children, siblings, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Memorial contributions may be made to the Oregon Wildlife Heritage Foundation.