Wilson County TN

Chickasaw Burial Customs

The Chickasaw practiced unique burial customs, distinct from their Choctaw neighbors, often interring the dead immediately beneath the spot where they died. The deceased were washed, anointed, and mourned by relatives, with women lamenting vocally while men mourned quietly. Those who died away from home were placed on scaffolds until their bones were dry, then returned for burial with ceremonies involving offerings. Archaeological findings in Tennessee suggest this practice dates back to prehistoric times, indicating a long tradition of burying the dead beneath dwellings.

Biographical Sketch of Joseph Martin Lynch

Joseph Martin Lynch, born July 30, 1881, trained at Cumberland University but declined the Tennessee bar exam due to racial integration. He served as Register of Deeds for Adair County and as attorney for the Interior Department. Notably, he turned down a federal treasury appointment to care for his ailing father. His family lineage includes military and political figures, such as his great-great-grandfather, a Revolutionary War Major, and his father, a former sheriff and Circuit Judge of the Cherokee Nation.

Biography of Charles Baird Stark

Charles Baird Stark, born on June 13, 1854, in Tennessee, is recognized as one of Missouri’s most esteemed lawyers. He descended from a lineage of lawyers and military figures, including his father, Judge Joseph Carter Stark. After being admitted to the bar in 1874, Stark built a successful law practice in Saint Louis and gained prominence, notably for his work, “Stark’s Digest.” His legal contributions extend to baseball law, and he volunteered during World War I. A Methodist and Mason, Stark is well-regarded in both professional and personal circles.

Biography of Thomas Murray Pierce

Thomas Murray Pierce, born on July 18, 1877, in Union City, Tennessee, is a distinguished lawyer in St. Louis. He is a member of the firm Jourdan, Rassieur Pierce and serves as vice president and general counsel of the Terminal Railway Association. A Georgetown University graduate, he began practicing law in Union City before moving to St. Louis in 1905. He is a prominent figure in corporate law and has held various leadership roles, while remaining active in civic and social organizations.

Biography of Leroy Adams

Leroy Adams, born around 1812 in Wilson County, Tennessee, is recognized as a pioneering figure in his community. Orphaned young, he moved to Missouri in 1833 with his mother and sisters. Adams transformed a wilderness farm into a thriving property through hard work, later marrying Mary Ann Cummings and raising six children. An active community member, he shifted from Whig to Republican and was involved in various local businesses. His legacy is marked by his character, contributions to society, and commitment to family and faith.

Biography of Hon. Philetus Averitt

Hon. Philetus Averitt, born in Kentucky and educated at Bethel College and Cumberland University, established his legal practice in St. Anthony, Idaho, after a year in his hometown. He played a vital role in organizing the Democratic party in Fremont County, leading to significant electoral success in 1896. Elected to the house of representatives in 1898, he skillfully managed the Democratic majority’s agenda. Governor Steunenberg appointed him to the state code commission, recognizing his legal expertise. Averitt’s political acumen and dedication suggest a promising future in the West.

Biography of Hon. J. J. Smith

Hon. J. J. Smith, a prominent Miami attorney since 1915, specializes in criminal law and has served in the state senate, where he promoted significant legislation. Born on June 23, 1889, in Texas, he pursued law after teaching to finance his education. An active member of the Democratic Party, he is involved in various organizations, including the Masons and the Odd Fellows. Smith has contributed to his community and state, exemplifying determination and public service throughout his career and private life.

Biography of Rev. Joseph Franklin Thompson

Rev. Joseph Franklin Thompson, born May 21, 1841, in the Cherokee Nation, served as a librarian and retired Methodist Episcopal minister. He was educated in Cherokee schools and graduated from Cumberland University in 1861. Thompson rose to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel during the Civil War and held various educational and religious roles, including superintendent of the Cherokee Orphan Asylum and pastor of Tahlequah station. A lifelong resident of Tahlequah, he actively supported community growth and Democratic principles while being involved in Masonry and library associations.

Biography of Frank Lee

Frank Lee, born December 9, 1864, in Indiana, has had a distinguished legal career since Oklahoma’s statehood. After earning his law degree from Cumberland University in 1886, he practiced law in Texas and became a pioneer lawyer in Hugo, Oklahoma. He held positions including special assistant prosecutor and United States district attorney for eastern Oklahoma. A respected member of several bar associations, he has dedicated himself to justice, education, and community service. Lee is also active in his church and enjoys sports as part of his balanced life.

Biography of Eugene Sloan Adkins

Eugene Sloan Adkins, born on March 26, 1896, in Choteau, Oklahoma, is a prominent businessman and the organizer of the Adkins Hay Feed Company in Muskogee. After graduating from Cumberland University in 1913, he established his first hay and grain business in 1915. He served in World War I and returned to expand his enterprise, which has grown significantly, including a robust grain elevator. Adkins is also involved in various other business ventures and community organizations, establishing a noteworthy reputation in Oklahoma’s commercial landscape.

Biography of John Martin, Hon.

Hon. John Martin, a notable figure in Kansas history, was born on November 12, 1833, in Tennessee and passed away in Topeka on September 3, 1913. He played key roles in the territorial and statehood periods, having served as a lawyer, legislator, and U.S. senator. Martin was deeply involved in local politics, aligning with the Democratic Party, and held various legal positions throughout his career. Married to Caroline Clements, he had three children, contributing to the legacy of Kansas’s early settlement and governance.