Madisonville Kentucky

Hopkins Co., Ky

In Hopkins County, Kentucky, slave ownership was limited to one or two individuals per family, as the area did not support large plantations. Slaves were well cared for, living in cabins, receiving ample clothing and food, and working alongside their owners, leading to higher levels of intelligence compared to those in the Deep South. Slaves were typically purchased in Hopkinsville, with rare transactions between local owners. J.M. Adams, an 84-year-old local bookkeeper, recalls no formal slave markets in Madisonville or the county.

Biography of Walter R. Pratt

Walter R. Pratt, born May 16, 1871, in Kentucky, moved to Independence, Kansas, in 1899, establishing a successful business in office and art supplies. A civic leader, he served one term as mayor, advocating for progressive initiatives like clean-up days, improved infrastructure, and municipal control of waterworks. The son of Judge Clifton J. Pratt, a notable lawyer and politician, Walter remained loyal to the Republican Party, contributing significantly to local governance. He married Helen W. Whittinghill and raised four children, actively participating in community and church activities.

Biography of James M. Givens

James M. Givens, born on February 14, 1869, in Kentucky, is a prominent attorney in Muskogee, Oklahoma, with nearly thirty years of experience. Educated at Center College, he was admitted to the bar in 1891. Givens served as the assistant United States attorney for the Indian Territory from 1893 to 1897, before focusing on private practice as a partner in the respected law firm Zevely, Givens & Stoutz. He is also an active Mason and was the first district deputy of the Elks in Indian Territory.

Biographical Sketch of Hon. Charles N. Byles

Hon. Charles N. Byles, born in 1844 to a Presbyterian minister, played a crucial role in the development of Montesano, Washington. After his family moved westward in 1853, he grew up and pursued education at Portland Commercial College. Byles undertook government surveying before purchasing land from Mr. King to establish Montesano in 1883. He actively fostered the town’s growth, serving as county auditor and treasurer while also managing a local bank. Married to Elizabeth J. Medcalf, he raised six children, four of whom survived.