Texas

Biographical Sketch of J. H. Ardinger

J. H. Ardinger, a native of Berkeley County, Virginia, dedicated his life to the dry goods business. After moving to various locations, he established a successful store in Bonham in 1875 with a $10,000 inventory. His business flourished unexpectedly, leading to expansions despite suffering a devastating fire in 1877 that destroyed his stock. Resilient, he rebuilt and now operates a thriving enterprise grossing approximately $50,000 annually. Renowned for his integrity and exemplary customer service, Ardinger is a distinguished merchant in North Texas.

Biographical Sketch of T. U. Cole

T. U. Cole, born in 1861 and raised in Texas, exemplifies success through integrity and character. He has dedicated his career to the banking industry, serving as cashier of the First National Bank of Honey Grove since its inception. His affable nature, combined with professionalism and a thorough understanding of banking, has earned him the respect of both the Board of Directors and stockholders. Cole’s life serves as an inspiration for the youth, illustrating that success can be achieved through dedication and moral character.

Biographical Sketch of O. A. Reich

O. A. Reich, an American of German descent, was born in North Carolina in 1828 and moved to Texas in 1850. A successful brick mason, he has accumulated wealth through hard work and prudent investments. He owns a prosperous addition to Bonham, which is experiencing rapid growth. Reich’s property is well-laid-out and in high demand, offering various lot sizes for potential buyers. His insight into local land values positions him as a key figure for those interested in Bonham’s development and growth.

Biographical Sketch of W. S. Perkins

W. S. Perkins, born in Georgia in 1841, moved to Texas in 1856, initially working as a farmer in Lamar County. He opened his first hotel in Paris in 1878, then relocated to Marshall where he achieved considerable success. In 1885, Perkins settled in Bonham, where he constructed a prominent double-storied hotel on South Main Street. His extensive experience and well-regarded establishment have earned him respect from both locals and travelers, solidifying his place as a significant figure in Fannin County’s hospitality industry.

Biographical Sketch of John P. Nelson

John P. Nelson, born in Virginia in 1860 and educated at the University of Virginia, became the principal of Fannin College in Texas shortly after its incorporation in 1883. His leadership resulted in a significant increase in enrollment from 99 to 140 students within his first year. A well-regarded scholar and gentleman, Nelson quickly earned respect among patrons and peers, establishing himself as a prominent figure in Texas education within a brief period.

Biographical Sketch of M. G. Hampton

M. G. Hampton, born in Fannin County in 1859 and raised as a farmer’s son, married Mollie E. Carr at nineteen. In 1880, he established his grocery business with limited resources. Despite concerns about his generous nature, he built a successful trade through promptness, fair dealings, and a focus on quick sales with modest profits. His integrity and dedication exemplify how hard work and honesty can lead to success, positioning him as one of the county’s most respected merchants.

Biography of J. Q. Chenoweth

J. Q. Chenoweth, born in Louisville, Kentucky, in 1841, was raised by his grandparents in Harrison County. After resigning from the Kentucky Senate in 1872, he moved to Bonham, Texas, where he established a law office. A Civil War veteran, he served as a Colonel and participated in significant battles. Chenoweth later represented his county in the Texas legislature and was appointed First Auditor of the U.S. Treasury in 1885. Known for his oratory skills and fair-mindedness, he remained a devoted Democrat throughout his career.

Biographical Sketch of William A. Bramlette

William A. Bramlette, originally from the Blue Grass state and raised in Texas, pursued a legal career starting under Hon. J. C. Hodges in Paris. Admitted to the bar in 1876, he established a law and abstract office in Bonham by 1880. With a focused expertise in land law, Bramlette has perfected land titles and abstracts, making significant contributions beyond Fannin County to include neighboring regions. His extensive knowledge and comprehensive mapping of local towns make him a preeminent authority in North Texas land law.

Biographical Sketch of J. P. Noble

J. P. Noble, born in Sabine County, Texas, in 1851, moved to Fannin in 1868. After attending Carlton College briefly, he became deputy clerk of court in 1873 and served until his election as Clerk of the County Court in November 1884. Renowned for his popularity, Noble earned the respect and goodwill of the community, evidenced by his significant victory in the 1884 primary election against a well-regarded opponent.

Biographical Sketch of Jerry L. Fryar

Jerry L. Fryar, originally from Tennessee, moved to Texas in 1870. After exploring various occupations, he established himself as the local agent for the New Home Sewing Machine Company in Bonham in 1885. Operating from Post-office Row, he built a successful business by maintaining a large stock of machines and organs. Known for his fair dealing and amicable demeanor, Fryar earned popularity and success in Fannin County through his dedicated customer service and the quality of his products.

Biographical Sketch of Rev. A. W. Wilson

Rev. A. W. Wilson, a native of Tennessee, was educated at Washington and Greenville Colleges, graduating in 1857. He became a licensed minister in 1870 and held various educational roles, including principal of a high school and president of a female college in Tennessee. Relocating to Dodd City, Texas, in 1881, he has since been recognized as an esteemed scholar and educator with a commitment to public education, being considered a strong candidate for state superintendent of public instruction.

Biographical Sketch of Will S. Thompson

Will S. Thompson, originally from Ohio and later of Shell City, Missouri, settled in Fannin County, Texas, in July 1885 following his marriage. Although new to the area, he has dedicated fifteen years to mastering photography and painting. His gallery on Post-office Row showcases his commitment to the art, featuring the latest advancements and a focus on quality work, particularly in capturing images of infants. Thompson has garnered a solid reputation among discerning clients for his artistic skill and diligence.

Biographical Sketch of Benjamin N. Woodson

Benjamin N. Woodson, born in 1850 in Kentucky, moved to Texas with his father at age four. He received part of his education in Honey Grove and later studied law in New York City, earning his diploma. Admitted to the bar by Judge Davis, Woodson returned to Texas in 1875, initially settling in Honey Grove before relocating to Ladonia. In 1884, he was elected County Attorney of Fannin County, prompting a move to Bonham with his family.

Biographical Sketch of George A. Dailey

George A. Dailey, born in Kentucky in 1844, moved to Texas at thirteen. He entered the mercantile business in 1866 with $3,000 and shifted to operating a drug store in Honey Grove after two years. His annual business revenue reaches $18,000 to $20,000. Known for his expertise in pharmacy and general knowledge, Dailey is a respected community member, involved in several organizations including the Masons and Knights of Honor, and serves as treasurer of the Honey Grove Building and Loan Association.

Biography of Col. R. H. Taylor

Mr. Woodson, a prominent lawyer and public servant born in Columbia, South Carolina, in 1825, had a significant impact on Fannin County and Texas politics. He began his legal career at 18 and quickly gained a reputation as a skilled attorney. A former Whig and Unionist, he became a Republican post-Civil War, serving multiple terms in the legislature and as a judge. He played key roles in local and state governance and was a respected figure known for his progressive views. Taylor, a family man, raised 21 children, with his eldest son leading the local bar.

Biographical Sketch of Lake Wilson

Lake Wilson, born in Arkansas in 1839, moved to Texas in 1863 and initially worked as a farm laborer. After saving $600, he entered the livery business in 1860, achieving notable success over twenty-five years. Beyond his business endeavors, he served in the 15th legislature, earning the respect of his constituents. Wilson raised and educated a large family while maintaining a modest lifestyle and integrity in his dealings. His contributions are well-documented in local tax records.

Biographical Sketch of E. H. Lyday

E. H. Lyday was born in 1852 in Grundy County, Missouri, and moved with his family to Honey Grove in 1861. In 1866, they settled in Bonham, where Lyday pursued his education and legal studies. He was admitted to the bar in 1877 and became a prominent figure in local politics, serving as Mayor of Bonham four times and as Justice of the Bonham precinct in 1884. Known for his intelligence and conscientiousness, Lyday earned respect in his judicial role.

Biography of Walter D. Allen

Walter D. Allen, originally from Louisiana, moved to Texas in 1877, where he became the president of the Masonic Female Institute in Bonham. After five years as principal of the Bonham Male and Female Academy, he established the college and secured a charter that included a commitment to provide free education to some students. Under his guidance, the institution flourished, attracting diverse matriculations. Known for his approachable demeanor, he is supported by his accomplished wife and a dedicated staff.

Biographical Sketch of W. D. Wilkins

W. D. Wilkins, born in South Carolina in 1845, relocated to Texas in 1866. Initially a farmer, he began a small general merchandise business in Honey Grove in 1873 with just $300. Through diligent work and sound judgment, he significantly expanded his enterprise, achieving annual revenues between $90,000 and $120,000. Wilkins earned a reputation as a reliable businessman, earning the trust of his community and establishing a solid financial foundation over twelve years in commerce.

Biographical Sketch of F. J. Abernathy

F. J. Abernathy, born in Giles County, Tennessee, in 1834, relocated to Texas in 1862, where he dedicated twelve years to teaching. In 1878, he was appointed Notary Public and began a real estate business focused on his county. Known for his reliability and expertise in real estate matters, Abernathy’s work is characterized by thoroughness and efficiency. Despite a physical deformity that limits manual labor, his cheerful demeanor and business acumen are notable, with his office situated at the Court House yard.