Compiled and Introduced by David Upton

Introduction
From June 8, 1889 to some time before October 1891 the Westville News published the writings of Senator Thomas L. Mendenhall on the early history of Simpson County as a serial. They were apparently very popular, with subscribers as far as Texas enjoying them. How many there actually were we do not know (the number could have been as high as 140) and unfortunately few survive today. I have found fourteen of these articles. The first one is missing; what information it held I can only wonder about, however, the few that do survive are a wealth of information. By today's standards some stories would be considered racist and for the sake of history I include them. My notes will appear in brackets [].

Westville News - May, 1889
In about two of three weeks from this issue we shall begin the publication of "Historical and Traditional Reminiscences of Simpson County and Its first Settlers." This valuable additon to our reading matter will prove highly entertaining and very interesting to every man, woman, boy and girl in Simpson County, as well as those who removed out of the county. Hon. T. L. Mendenhall has kindly consented to prepare the invaluable papers for the News alone. He is a splendid writer. We and all our readers will feel very grateful to him for such kind services. Now is the time for our old subscribers to come back to us; and alas for others who have not yet subscribed. Will friends tell it around what a treat is in store for everybody, and get everybody to take the paper in time to read the very first chapter. This interesting and entertaining History &c, will do to file away and reread in the future. Let every subscriber clip out the chapters and paste them in a book to preserve them.   [Advertisement which appeared throughout the Month of May 1889]


Number 1 -Westville News - June 15, 1889

In the early settlement of Simpson County, there was very little need of physicians, as the county was unusually healthy, and a physician could scarcely support himself by his practice.

The country being sparsely settled, there was but little use for hotels. One of the first buildings that was usually erected at the county seat in those days, was considered as a sine qua non [something that is absolutely needed] to add respectability to the town, was hastened to completion on the corner of the public square in Westville, on the corner North West of the present court house, in the shape of a log grocery, where ardent spirits was distributed to topers [drunkards] by the half pint, and was liberally patronized, especially by candidates previous to elections, as treating was then considered an excellent mode of securing the support of voters.

While there was but little patronage of hotels, except by travelers prospecting the country in search of lands or locations to settle upon, yet there were usually two kept in the county seat which were built of logs, as there were no saw mills where lumber could be had. One of those hotels was kept by Elijah Thurman, in the rear of Dr. McCallum's present residence, and another by Britton Lewis and after by Mr. Alford, on the lots about 150 yards East of the court house, where Wm Crisco subsequently built the Union Hotel, which building he occupied for many years, and subsequently moved to Lawrence county, and in excavating a place for a mill seat was smothered to death by the earth falling or caving upon him. The Freeman double log dwelling, where the hotel now stands, was turned into a hotel and occupied a few years by Hon. G. Fenn, until he built the one now situated on said lot.
Among the first settlers here was Mr. Hubbard, two brothers by the name of Hargus, Eli Nichols, Carroll, (the father of H. C. Carroll, of Harrisville,) Henry Smith and brother, After the Freemans, the merchants were C. K. Brown, Mendenhall, Dunlap, (who merchandised in the days of what [was] then called Shinplasters, which was a kind of individual general banking system by which merchants and traders would issue small scrip or bills redeemable at their office,) They were succeeded by Col. G. W. Williams, and Bacot & Harger, the latter of whom still resides in the county. Before he arrived at the age of 21, his disabilities of minority were removed by the Legislature. These were followed by H. V. Standard who removed to Brandon where he , his wife, and [three] of his children, died of yellow fever in 1853 or 5. An amusing business incident once occurred at Jaynes Bluff on Pearl River, a Steamboat landing where cotton was hauld for shipment. Sarah A. Harper had cotton stored there and so did H. V. Standard, and it got mixed so that it was difficult to ascertain to whom it belonged, since by inverting the brand, it was either "H V S" or S A H".

The most of the preaching in the town was done at the Court House, until the Masonic Lodge and Methodist Church were built in 1850, by D. L. Sinclair who then lived here. Schools were taught in and around town, but no building of any consequence had ever been erected for school purposes until 1850. The citizens built a very commodious one and established a first class school which was supplement with another on the same lots where the present building stands, where prior to the war [Civil War], was taught an excellent school presided over by Prof. John Hamilton, aided by two assistants and a music teacher. This school was attended by nearly a hundred students.

An accident occurred on the school house lots in 1852, while Wm. Walker was diggina well for the school, as follows; the well was nearly completed at the depth of 72 feet, and being a little deeper than was expected, it would be the rope was too short for the depth, and Walker procured a new trace chain and spliced it to the rope next to the bucket instead of next to the crank, he then stepped one foot into the bucket and prepared to descend. He then ordered a very stout negro boy that was assisting him to let him down, and as the chain was being unwound form the roller, a link broke, and Walker's descent was unexpectedly swift, but it was not the lightning speed that hurt him but the sudden stop somewhat addled him. The negro who was not accustomed to such rapid transit, was so badly frightened that he left the crank and started to run off; but T. W. King who was on his way to the school house, being nearby, and the negro seeing him, ran back to the well, and in order to ascertain whether he fall had killed Walker, hallowed out, "Is you down dar, Mr. Walker?" To which Walker replied, " Yes! where the [hell] also do you reckon I'd be? Send me down the rope." He tied the rope around himself, and King assisted the negro boy to draw him out. The leg that was in the bucket was badly broken, but he eventually recovered and lived several years not withstanding his misfortune, he was not deterred from pursuing his avocation, and dug a great many other wells.

For many years there were from two to five retail liquor saloons in Westville, around and about which many disturbances occurred, such as fisticuffs and affrays, with occasionally a shooting or cutting affair. One night, some 51 or 51 years ago, [the year 1838 or 1839] a row took place in one that stood on the corner where Drummond's store now stands. Evan Magee (father of Thos. & W. J. decd.) was cut with a knife, from the effects of which he died. A man by the name of Revels was indicted for the murder; and when his case came up for trial, he applied for a change of venue, and his case was moved to Smith County where he was convicted of Manslaughter, this having occurred before there was a penitentiary in the State, he was branded [marked with a red hot iron] for the crime. After Magee's death, Mr. Miles, father of S. J. Miles of Harrisville, married his widow, Naoma Magee.

The first grist and saw mill built on the creek near this place [Westville] was built by John Young, the grandfather of Mrs. Farlow, which was afterwards owned by Harmon Powell who subsequently sold out and settled on Mobile Bay below the city.


Number 2 - Westville News -  July 4, 1889

In the early settlement of Simpson County, game was plentiful, such as bear, deer, and turkey. Wolves were so numerous that it was useless to undertake to raise sheep; and the settlers had to raise their hogs where they could protect them until they were sufficiently grown to defend themselves against the animals. Occasionally a few stray ones appear here now in the sparsely settled portions of the county. Two were killed about a year ago, and some others are still at large. The range then, had not been encroached upon by farms, and cattle kept in good condition during the entire winter. The streams were then well supplied with fish, such as salmon, trout, bream, drum, buffalo, catfish, etc. Many of the early settlers imitated the habits of Daniel Boone and David Crocket, and supplied themselves with meats from the forests. The Indians who were then numerous, were ever ready to exchange venison, turkeys or bear meat for "strong water," or deer skins for ammunition.

There were but few churches and very few school houses. The inhabitants lived so far apart that it was impossible for a sufficient number of children to reach a school house from home to justify a teacher to take charge of a school. In some instances, two or three persons would employ a teacher to teach ten or dozen children, which was the only means they had of giving their children even the rudiments of an education, and well educated teachers were scarce. Very little interest was taken by the masses in the cause of education until about 1845. Prior to that time, occasionally in the latter part of the summer after the crops were made, some itinerant pedagogue would take a three months school. Among the first teachers were Thomas Ennis, an Irishman by birth and the grandfather of Mrs. R. W. Mahaffy; Jas. E. O Leary, another Irishman, Thomas Thornburg and Ben Thornton. Another Irishman, taught in this county about 40 years ago, [1849] who adopted a novel plan to prevent the little urchins from watching him during study hours, by arranging them in rows with their faces from him so that they could not see the teacher without turning around.

In some neighborhoods there was preaching occasionally, and in no instance was divine service held oftener than once a month; and such a thing as a Sunday school was not thought of . Some parents, however, instructed their children at home in matters pertaining to the scriptures, and required a very strict observance of the Sabbath, while others were permitted to rove and gambol at will. The preaching was principally done by local ministers who had but little time to devote to theological studies, and would now be called plow-handle preacher, they having never had the benefit of even an academic education; and a collegiate course and theological training could not be acquired if it had been desired; yet their preaching was effective, and most of those who were enrolled as members of the church were devout Christians who adhered with great tenacity to their religious proclivities. Most of the converts were of mature age, and early piety was a rare thing.

Some of the ministers were Francis Walker, grand-father of R. and Hon. L. B. Walker, Cader Price, Jas. and Alex Murray, Jas. Powel, grand-father of J. I. Bishop, Baptists; Absolum Harper, E. N. Talley, and Islam Brown, grand-father of the present Brown generation, Methodists.

About 38 years ago, [1851] a protracted debate on the subject of Baptism, which lasted about a week, took place between Rev T. W. Caskey, a Christian or Campbellite minister, and Rev. Chapman, a Methodist, which resulted in riveting more firmly in their faith, the followers of each denomination.

A negro by the name of Hubbard (who belonged to Thomas Hubbard on Okatoma) was convicted of rape and sentenced to hang. Between the time of the sentence and the day fixed for his execution, he made his escape, and many persons thought he was assisted to do so. He had obtained a bunglingly written free pass with the assistance of which, he succeeded in getting as far as Mobile where he thought to live a free man. Vanzandt, the Sheriff from whom he escaped, published a description of Jack, with the fact that he was under sentence of death. The police of Mobile accosted him with inquiries, regarding him as a suspicious character, when Jack presented his free pass which when read was regarded as a suspicious document that would entitle him to be provided for at the public expense in the lockup, where he remained until Sheriff Vanzandt went down and brought him back to his former quarters. In the summer of 1853, he hung him in the hollow about 300 yards east of where H. K. Farmer now lives, and was buried near there. His body was taken up and dissected by some young medical students, and his skeleton remained here a long time.

About 1843, three young men, all of whom were nearly grown, were sitting on he gallery of the old log tavern. A tree stood near the house; a thunder cloud arose, the tree was demolished by a stroke of lighting and Gartman Fenn, Alford, and another young man were instantly killed.

Should the next generation be told that young lions had been cubbed in Westville during the existence of the present generation, they would be inclined to discredit the statement. Nevertheless such was the case. About 1872, a circus and caravan of wild animals were on exhibition here; [Westville] and while the circus was on exhibition at night, with a large audience in attendance, two young lions were whelped in a cage, immediately after which a huge male lion commenced a most terrific roaring, shaking his shaggy mane in an angry manner, and clawing at the bars of the cage, with such force that his keepers and their attendants became excited for fear he would escape from the cage. Those of the spectators who were aware of the trouble and the danger of an infuriated lion escaping from his cage amidst a crowd of women and children, were very much frightened; but his keepers finally succeeded in removing him into a more secure cage, which was drawn away some distance from the performance, and a guard stationed at his cage to prevent his escape. A few years ago, when the same menagerie was billed to exhibit in Cincinnati, there was inserted in the bills that "Two lions would be on exhibition that were whelped in Westville, Miss."

Number 3 - Westville News - July 11, 1889

In the case of Rufus Wallace who killed a Mr. Brown in Copiah County about 1853, the venue was changed to this county; and on the trial the plea of insanity was interposed, but he was convicted of murder and sentenced to be hung. An appeal was prosecuted to the Supreme Court where a diminution of the record was suggested by Col. Hooker, his attorney, and the Governor granted a respite until the record could be perfected, and a new hearing of the case could be had. The day had previously been fixed for his execution; and about 11 o'clock of that day, H. W. Moore, then Sheriff, had a guard summoned, who prepared their guns to guard the prisoner to the scaffold which had been erected about half a mile from the jail. The hanging was to occur immediately after noon. The shroud and coffin had been made, the hearse had been ordered for the purpose of conveying the doomed man, the hangman's knot had been tied in the rope, and the black cap was in readiness. Everything had been arranged, a large crowd had collected to witness the hanging; but at an opportune time, Dr. Sam Brown, who then resided at Mt. Carmel having been to Jackson, drove into town, his horse worried, panting, and muddy to his sides, and he and his buggy bespattered with mud, stopped and inquired for the Sheriff. On the Sheriff's approaching him, without much ceremony he handed the Sheriff a paper which he read, and then announced that a respite had been granted the prisoner, and the hanging would be postponed. The disappointed crowd dispersed. During the time that Wallace was confined in prison, he made his escape twice, but each time was arrested before he had travelled far. One Sunday he got out of jail about noon, while the people were all at dinner. He traveled through the woods about a mile, and then took the Rockport road on which John P. Toler lived and about seven miles from town. Toler kept a pack of blood hounds. Wallace's escape was discovered immediately after dinner, and the Sheriff sent John Douglas, then a boy, (who had previously fed the prisoner) after Toler and his dogs. There fell the night before a light shower of rain. Where Wallace came into the road, John who knew his shoes, immediately recognized his track. He kept the road a little over six miles, and from long confinement in jail was worried and sat down by the roadside to rest. John expecting to overtake him, discovered him on the opposite hill, dismounted and tied the horse and went through the woods near enough to satisfy himself beyond any doubt that it was Wallace; and being assured that it was, he returned to town about 2 o'clock p.m. The Sheriff and Capt. Banks then pursued him. They engaged Toler and his dogs; and he was captured a little after dark. He had climbed a tree to avoid the dogs, and when he heard Toler urging his dogs, he called to him saying "I am a well digger; I got belated and lost my way and your dogs got after me." When the dogs were hushed Wallace came down from the tree and commenced a conversation, little suspecting that he was pursued; and seemed rational until the Sheriff and his deputy came up. When he recognized them, he at once became a raving maniac. They returned with him to prison and he talked and raved the entire night. His conduct ever afterwards caused the people to believe that he was deranged at the time he killed Brown, and that the pleas of insanity was properly interposed on his trial. He became so unmanageable in jail, frequently tearing all his clothes off and into shreds, that the citizens through sympathy and humanity, contributed towards the expense, and the Sheriff placed him in a private apartment and hired a man to take charge of him. He never recovered from his insanity, but died in a deranged condition while in custody where he had been about three years, and was buried in the coffin that had been prepared for him previous to the day he was to have been hanged.Mr. Scrivener, the grand-father of Mrs. S. H. Belk, was among the first settlers of Westville. He carried on a wheelwright and smith shop on the lot now occupied by T. M. Berry. Experimenting on his mechanical skill he at one time made and used a one-horse wagon on the principle of a clock reel, which would strike every time the machinery-attached wheel had rolled a mile. This invention was before mile boards were much in use. By keeping an account he could tell how far he had traveled in a day. [a basic odometer]

Among the early circuit judges who presided in this place, were Judge Willis and Buck Harris, the latter whom subsequently removed to Texas. Then Wiley P. Harris who was succeeded by Jno. E. McNair who held the position about ten years, and until he was removed in 1869. During the days of reconstruction previous to his election as circuit judge, he held the office of district attorney. O. F. McCarty held the latter office prior to Judge McNair, and Richard Cooper subsequently.

The attorneys who usually attended the courts at this place 40 and 50 years ago, [1849-1859] were Wm. Vamerson, Swift, Gen Buckley, Wm. A. Stone, and O. F. McCarty from Monticello; E. J. Good, A. G. Mayers, G. S. McMillan from Raliegh; Geo. T. Swan, of Jackson; E. H. Lombard, Col. W. B. Shelby, T. P. Ware and Terence McGowan from Brandon; E. G. Peyton and Ben King from Gallatin.

Number 4 - Westville News - July 18, 1889

About the time that Copiah County was organized, and when Simpson was included within its boundaries, John McNair, and others, settled in the south east corner of this county when there were not exceeding half a dozen families living in the county; and about a year afterwards, his brother Alex McNair, father of Hon. John E., and grandfather of Hon. A. C. McNair, of Brookhaven, settled on the west side of Okatoma. Soon after this, Peter Hubbard who first settled on Good Water, removed to Okatoma to the place where J. A. Hubbard now lives. A few years afterwards, Eli Smith, Linear Rankin, D. L. Kennedy, John Gregory, Lewis Turner, James Rankin, Alex Kennedy, Joshua Bufkin, Joe Roberts, Nathan Bush, Richard Womack, and Mathew Thames, each settled on said creek, extending the settlements to the head waters near Fayette Hill were Capt. David Womack lived, and who represented the county 40 years ago, [1849] and afterwards removed to Hill County, Texas. The place east of Fayette Hill was settled by Templeton Tullos, and the one where William Thames resides, by S. B. Thames. Samuel and James were pioneers, Samuel having located at the Robert Williams place near the Sixtowns race track, and James near the Smith County line on Hatchapaloo. Bud Kelly settled the place known as the Bill Williamson old place which was afterwards occupied by Wm. Hays who married Polly Gandy who lived on Sellers Creek above where her son Jas.Hays now lives, and Joe Warren first improved the Coop Patterson place. The land where Weathersby's Mill stands was entered by James Powell. James May, the grandfather of A. Q. May, and father of Judge May, removed from Pike County about 60 years ago [1829] and settled on Sellers Creek, and about the same time Wm. Gipson, grandfather of Dr. Noah Gipson, settled at the R. R. Womack place.One of the first settlements made on Rials Creek was made by a man of that name. The next was made by Samuel Brown, the great grand-father of of the present Brown family of that connection, who settled near the head of this creek on the Lewis Dixon place which was subsequently occupied by Stirin Dunford, father of Mrs. John Hays. This place is noted for having been the scene of a heartless and bloody tragedy. Mr. Samuel Brown and his wife, both of whom were very old, were the only white persons living there. They owned several negroes and were generally thought to have a considerable amt. of money; and one night about fifty years ago [1839] three negroes, all of whom bore the name of Henry, and a woman named Rose, murdered the old man and his wife for their money, and then killed two of three negroes who knew of the killing, to prevent them from testifying against them. A man by the name of Miller was charged with having instigated the murder, and was alleged to have received the greater part of the money. He was prosecuted for the crime. Three of the negroes, tow of the Henry's and Rose were convicted of murder, and hanged by Wm. Toler, who was then Sheriff, near the place where J. T. Peacock now lives. A change of venue was obtained in Miller's case, to Hinds County where he remained in jail several years. A garden being in the rear of the jail, it is said that after he ate some peaches, he threw the seed through the window of his cell. He remained in jail until peaches were grown from these seed so near that he could reach through the grates and gather the fruit that had been produced from the seed of the peaches he had formerly eaten. He subsequently died in prison before there was any final disposition of his case.

Stirin Dunford commenced building a mill on Rials Creek, at the place now owned by C. Burns. Dunford sold to his son-in-law, John Hays, who afterwards sold to Wm. T. Brown. This mill is not exceeding 1 1/2 mile from the head of the creek where there are large springs that furnish a sufficient amount of water power to run a grist, saw, and rice mill, and wool carding machine. The pond covers an area of at least 20 acres. At this place Mr. Burns, a native of Pennsylvania, by his industry, energy, and economy, has succeeded in doing a thriving business. By his example his neighbors were profited; and that vicinity is now in a more prosperous condition than ever before.

Young Welch, father of Nathan, and grandfather of Mrs. Collinson, settled about a quarter [mile] west of these mills, James Irby, Jno B. Clark, and Isham Brown settled east of said mills, the latter of whom came from Wayne County. John M. and John J. Brown, Francis Grubbs, Nat Shotts, and Wm. Carter, settled lower down on the creek. Jas. Powell, the grand-father of Hon. T. R. Gowan, settled the place where Geo. Drummonds now lives, in 1830; and subsequently the place on the creek, where the unoccupied buildings were all burned last year. Henry Powell and L. C. Gibson built the mills on this creek, where G. M. Burnham now lives and owns the mill, situated at a most excellent mill seat, with an abundant supply of water the entire season. During the time that Gibson owned these mills (he having purchased Powell's interest in them) he had a large quantity of lumber sawed with which a part of the town of Brandon was built. Thomas Hutson settled the place near the head of Rials Creek, on the west side, now owned by his son Abram. He and several of his neighbors went out one day driving for deer, and Mr. Hutson killed a deer, returned home, ate his dinner, and being somewhat wearied form the exercises taken in the hunt, he lay down to rest, and died in a few hours after he reached home.

James Brown the grandfather of James and F. M. Grubbs settled on this creek about 60 years ago [1829] where James Grubbs now lives.

Number 5 - Westville News - July 18, 1889

About 60 years ago, [1829] Abram Cook and Bedford Gates settled on Strong River near the N. E. corner of the county, and Rhesa Kennedy, grand-father of Rev. J. R. Johnston, on the same side of the river, in the vicinity of whom lived the Ponders and Moses and Wm. Layton, ancestors of the present generation of those names. 40 or 50, years ago, [1839-1849] Hugh Thompson and Dick Swor lived on the north side of the river, nearly opposite Rhesa Kennedy's.

David Womack who was known as "Long," David to distinguish him from the other David Womack, settled the place on the north side of the river, at what is now known as Floyd's bridge. He sold his place to Everett Floyd, the present occupant, about 40 years ago, [1849] and removed to Texas. Thomas Reas, who died about three years ago, lived about 50 years where his widow now resides, near where Campbell's Creek empties into the river. [Strong River]

About 50 yrs. ago, [late 1830s] Brewster Jayne, who then lived near Jaynes bridge, (which took the name from him), built a large set of mills on Strong River, near D'Lo. P. O. [and] L.C. Gibson, John McIntosh and a man by the name of Brothers, all of whom have since died, were the mechanics who did most of the work in erecting these mills. Mr. Jayne living an energetic and progressive man, doing a mercantile business in connection with his mills, borrowed money from the mushroom banks [small banks with no real assets] mortgaged his property, was one of the victims of the financial crash of 1837, in consequence of which his mills went down in a short time thereafter. Previous to this he had furnished large quantities of lumber for buildings in the town of Brandon. These mills were built on a rock foundation and the grooves that were chiseled out to imbed the mud sills, are still visible at low water. [can be seen at D'Lo Water Park] Mr. W. R. May availed himself of the water fall by keeping a fish trap at this place, which at times furnishes him with more fish than he needs for home consumption, which is generally donated to his neighbors and friends. While Mr. Jayne lived at this place, Mrs. Juliet Jayne, his wife, presented to a newly married lady friend of hers a lot of dishes and plates, some of which have been so well cared for that they are still in existence.

Wm. Carter originally settled the place where S. E. Pruett now resides. He being a professional hunter was scarcely ever seen without his gun, fawn skin shot sack, large blowing horn; and accompanied by his hounds made very little improvement at that place. The evidence of prior settlement had nearly all disappeared before it was resettled by the present occupant. T. J. Perkins lived about 50 years ago near the Rocky Ford bridge on the north side of the river where his brother Jesse now resides. He owned two slaves, to wit; Bachus and wife Patty who were imported from Africa. When Bachus, following the example of his god-father and name sake had imbibed a sufficiency of wine to free him from worldly cares and forget his servitude mindful of scenes of earlier days when he roamed at will on the banks of the Congo River, fearing nothing but captivity by a hostile tribe of cannibals or slave traders which were more terrible to the juvenile African than the jaws of the cat-eyed tiger, or coil of the boa constrictor, - while thus exhilarated, this old sable son of servitude would delight to repeat the songs of serenade to a senorita, or war whoop of his native land, and exhibit the simple maneuvering of their military drill.

Alexander Murray, father of Mrs. Gibson, resided many years on Strong River, near the mouth of Dabb's Creek. Mrs. Penelope Tuggle, grandmother of G. W. Jones Esq., one of the most successful lady farmers of this section, settled near the mouth of Sanders Creek over 50 years ago and about the same time John Peacock occupied the premises where his widow now resides. Lewis Harper occupied the farm on the north side of the river at the Young bridge which took the name from John Young who located on the south side. Thomas Neely was one of the first settlers in the county, occupying the place now owned by Arthur Sutton, which the sold to George Allbritton, grand-father of the family of that name. John Bishop, Sr. was also a pioneer who settled a place now owned by his grandson J. N. Bishop.  He subsequently removed to the place known as the C. B. Banks place. James Dear and James Powell were the first settlers on what is known as the Williams place which took that name from having been the home of Col. G. W. Williams was an orphan boy without means; but through his efforts succeeded in obtaining a good business education, and made a successful merchant and farmer, and notwithstanding the late war left him in an embarrassed condition, he recovered and amassed a considerable property, and at the same time gave his children (all of whom were daughters) the advantage of a liberal education; and they now enjoy the association of the best society in this state, Alabama and California.

Number 6 - Westville News - Aug. 22, 1889.

Some of Judge May's Expertise is Hunting.
The following statement of several successful hunting excursions, were recently narrated to the author, by Hon. Wm. May, in his 77th year, who from his early boyhood was raised in this county, and is still a robust man of his age. Although not a professional hunter, he frequently indulged in the chase for past time and recreation. He had some rare and exciting scenes in that line. Judge May is one among the oldest settlers in the county, now living. His time has been principally devoted to agricultural pursuits in which he succeeded remarkably well prior to the war; and ever since the close of that devastating occurrence, he has ever maintained an upright, pious, honorable, and respectable position as a good citizen in the community in which he resided; and although some of the narrations may stem to those inexperienced in the life oh a hunter, as somewhat incredible, the compiler hereof knowing the veracity of the narrator, which no one dare to question, and having had some experience in hunting, vouches for the correctness of the statements in every particular.

The Judge related as follows: Over 50 years ago, [late 1830s] while preparing to take a hunt soon after I was married, I said to my wife, "which would you prefer that I should bring you, a deer or a turkey?" She laughingly replied that I might not bring either. I then remarked that I would bring her a turkey. Armed with my rifle and accompanied by my swift and active little dog that was trained to follow or go before me, run or slow track, as commanded, I set out for the woods. I had gone but a short distance when I discovered two turkey gobblers so intently engaged in fighting that they did not discover my approach. When within proper distance, I shot and killed one, and the other being tired and worried from the effect of the fight, trotted oft up a hill which was a difficult place for him to rise to fly. I started my dog in pursuit, and caught the turkey before he reached the top of the hill. I had been gone from home but a short time before I returned with two fine gobblers much to the astonishment and gratification of my wife.

A short time afterwards, I concluded to take another hunt, when about to leave home equipped as usual, I remarked to my wife that this time I would bring her a deer. In a short time I luckily returned with a very fine one, which evidently induced her to believe that I could select and procure the game I desired. One another occasion while hunting, I discovered two fine bucks standing in the reed or cane. I ordered my dog (which was done by signs) to follow me, which he did very stealthily and with great caution. With cautions tread I proceeded until within proper distance. The bucks were standing double; I fired on them, shot one down and wounded the other. I started my dog in pursuit of the wounded one which he soon caught in a creek nearby. Although I have killed a great many deer, these were two of the finest bucks I ever killed. This time I had my hunting pony and hatchet with me but being alone, it was with great difficulty that I managed to get the deer on the pony. This however was effected by making what was then called an Indian Ladder arranging a lever, I succeeded in raising them sufficiently high for my pony under them, where he stood until I loosed the lever and let the deer down, one on each side of the pony I then led him home, with more venison than I needed for present use. At another time when I had traveled over most of my hunting ground without success, my dog ran into a thicket, when I heard a single yelp and saw a sapling shaking. Hearing no other noise I hastened to the spot and found my dog standing by a fine dead buck. I examined to see if he had been wounded, but found no signs except what had been done by the dog. The deer's loin bone was broken, his head bursted, and the bark skinned off the sapling. I supposed the dog had frightened him by surprise , so much so, that he ran against the tree and killed himself. In those days when hunting was done on foot alone, and a deer was killed, the method of carrying it home was to strip the skin from the legs to the knee and hock joints which were cut off at these joints, leaving the skins attached to the remainder of the legs, which were tied or looped together and swung on the shoulder shot bag fashion. If more were killed than could be carried, the choicest pieces were selected and taken, and the remainder left in the woods.

Fire hunting being common in those days, [I assume a 19th Century version of headlighting] I did some of it myself, and had some almost miraculous luck or success. On two occasions I went and had not gone far before I found eyes, and each time shot and killed two deer at a single shot. At another time I passed a wolf pit (a wolf pit is a hole dug in the ground several feet deep with a trap door over the top, hung in such a way that when anything stepped on the door it would tilt and drop the animal into the pit; they were thus prepared for destroying wolves which were very numerous and destructive to sheep, pigs and young calves. These pits were usually baited with fresh meats, and small pieces of meat were scattered different directions from the pit more readily to attract their attention, than was likely to be done by the scent of that below the surface) and to my astonishment I found a large buck captured in the pit but could not conjecture what induced him to tamper with the trap door.'

Number 7 - Westville News - Aug. 28, 1889

About 65 years ago, [early 1820s] a man by the name of Alford built a grist mill on what is known as Berry's Mill Creek, which he sold to Mr. Sutton, father of Benjamin Sutton, deceased, late a resident of Rankin County. Sutton sold the place to Col. John Berry who owned the mills about 45 years, and died about 1859 at his residence near there. For many years, Clem Powell resided on the place about 1/2 mile east of these mills, which place he sold 39 years ago, [1850] and it is now owned by D. D. Berry.David Bishop, father of J. I., and others, settled the W. L. Williams place on Strong River immediately after his marriage and resided there until his death.

John Philips, David Quinn and Jas. Waldrop, each were among the first settlers on Strong River near the mouth of Quinn's Creek.

A man by the name of Hill established a ferry on Strong River about 1828 and lived on the north side of the river near the place where E. A. Durr built a bridge in 1875; this crossing was known for many years as Hills Ferry; and about 1825 a man by the name of Lee (who was no relation of the present generation of Lees of this county) settled the place owned for many years by Nathan Traylor (where he died). It is now owned by Wm. Lee. Mr. Lee who settled this place, subsequently removed west of the "old missionary" in Jasper county, and Michael Lee settled the place 6 miles west of Westville in 1849 and lived there until the death of his wife. He now resides on Silver Creek where he enjoys good health in about the 75th year of his age.

James McCaskill who was paralyzed form his hips to his feet when quite a young man, lived 60 years ago at the place now occupied by W. A. Dickson; and notwithstanding his affliction, he accumulated considerable property and owned several slaves. His means of changing his position in bed was by swinging to a rope fastened to the ceiling; and to move about the house, he had a chair fixed on wheels, and with the aid of a stick he could roll himself into different parts of the house, but was unable to remove from the bed to the chair without assistance. He was a successful farmer, and viewed his farm and crops regularity, having had roads prepared in suitable places, over which he traveled in a hack after being placed therein by some of his servants. His example of industry and economy is worthy to be followed by some who are not laboring under his disability.

James Taylor owned what is known as the Amos Davis place, which place he gave to Mrs. Davis, that is, that portion of the place in the swamp. In 1849, he was ploughing in the swamp, and a dark cloud arising caused him to unhitch his horse and start for his house. Riding briskly, the lighting struck a tree near his road which caused his horse to throw him where he was found dead. His family afterwards sold the place to Davis. It is unknown who made the first start to settle the J. N. Bishop place near the bridge on Big Creek; but Robert Bridges owned it 50 years ago. It was on this place that Walter Banks, son of C. B. Banks, was found dead were in the field where he had been plowing. Martin Vanzandt, father of E. M. & J. L., occupied the place at the mouth of this creek 50 years ago.

46 years ago, a man by the name of Parker, and a teacher by the name of Francis who was the grandfather of Mrs. F. E. Shivers, lived at a place about half a mile north of the Davis place; there is where the Rev. Isaac Muse died.

One among the first gins erected in that vicinity was run 49 years ago by John and Elijah Powell on the spot where the buildings stand that are now occupied by Jo Carter and Drewry Chandler located on Strong River on land now owned by Jack Griffeth and Bill Jones, which was sold after his death and bought by O. J. Dye about 40 years ago. Dye moved the residence out to the public road and sold the place to Griffeth and Sam Banks; and they divided the farm. John Keen and John W. Keys each settled near the mouth of the Cotton Seed Creek. Keys sold his place to G. W. Briley about 1839. Briley had previously merchandised at Georgetown and in the financial crash of 1837 he failed and retired to farming on the place which Jack Quinn now owns.
William Chandler, father of Judge Chandler, lived 65 years ago at the Stay place now owned by Jno. T. Hardie; and about the same time, Richard Ainsworth occupied the place in the fork of Pearl and Strong River now owned by Allen Murray.

Mrs. Banks, mother of V. S. and C. B. Banks settled on the Banks place where the land had been entered by Preston Brent who lived at Georgetown. Several years afterwards, M. A. Banks bought the land from Brent's heirs.

Scott, the father of Jo Scott, the bridge builder, lived about 55 years ago, [early 1830s] near the mouth of Strong River. In 1856 M. A. Banks and F. P. Bonner merchandised at the bridge which was then called Bridgeport, and for at least 20 years before that date Ezekiel Bass, a blacksmith and gunsmith by trade, eked out his existence in that vicinity.

Forty years ago Moses Davis emigrated from Georgia with what was called a spike team consisting of two flea-bitten greys and one sorrel horse and at different times lived on two or three places near Bridgeport.

Strong River has a great many falls of a few feet, and it takes its name from the swiftness of the current. The soil in the bottoms is mostly sand but some portions is very fertile, producing 35 to 40 bushels of corn or a bale of cotton per acre, when well cultivated and the seasons are favorable. Browns millcreek in the North Eastern part of the county takes its name from Rev. Henry Brown, who died 30 years ago. He was possessed of powerful lungs and thundering voice, which he delighted in using to the fullest extent in his preaching, to the great annoyance of the mothers who either had to stay at home, or carry their babies to church, because when he got warmed up on his subject , he aroused the little ones from slumbers usually with a squall, form which cause he was called "old baby waker" though very pious, upright and energetic man.

Number 8 - Westville News - Sept. 5, 1889

In the publication of last week, a typographical error occurred by leaving out two or three lines which made it appear that James Taylor was killed by having been thrown from his horse which was started by a flash of lightning. The paragraph omitted showed that it was Wm. Bridges, the father of W. D. Bridges, who was thus killed. And in a previous article alluding to the carpenters who assisted in building the Brewster Jayne mills on Strong River, the writer omitted to state that Jos. Scott decd., the father of Joe Scott now of Copiah County (the bridge builder) took the contract and employed the men previously alluded to.In 1820, John Berry, the grand and great-grandfather of the present generation of that name, moved from Marion County and settled on Silver Creek between where A. G. Berry and A. W. Berry now live. The line dividing this County form Lawrence County ran through his dwelling. He there succeeded in completing the raising of a large family, all of whom have since died except R. T. Berry, now a resident of Lawrence County. One of his neighbors, Isaac Myers resided in the last named county, owned some land in this county through he resided on the south side of the line where Wm. Brinson now lives. Emigrated from Tennessee about 1818, he came down the Mississippi River in a flat boat and landed at Natchez. He then had a wife and one son, and brought with him all his worldly effects; and he either brought with him or procured at Natchez, a horse and cart, his only means of transporting his family, goods and chattels. Thus equipped and prepared, he set out on what was then called the Natchez and St. Stephens Road which was a very dim highway, having been traveled but very little and was principally followed by noticing the blazes on the trees. The county being so sparsely settled there were no hands to open roads and build bridges; consequently, he had considerable difficulty in crossing some of the streams; but being a stout, robust, and athletic man, with an iron will, with considerable experience in the use of tools, he deviated from the blazed pathway, and like Noah dove in search of land whereon to set his foot where he would be "monarch of all he surveyed," he invaded the forest and pitched his tent on the above described lands and set about building a house. When he landed there, his exchequer was reduced to a single silver dollar, which has been seen by the writer since the Confederate War, and had a very ancient appearance as it was worn almost smooth, and the dates and impressions were entirely obliterated. The skill that Myers had exhibited in the construction of his house of the rough hewn material, attracted the attention of other emigrants who were less qualified for that kind of work, and for a considerable time after he had located his family, he was almost constantly employed in assisting others in building, frequently several miles from his home; this enabled him to purchase a few head of cattle and hogs from which he continued to raise stock without any attention on his part except to mark and brand, as they were looked after and kept from going wild by his estimable and industrious wife; and in a few years time he had quite a number of beef cattle to dispense of which was an annual source of income; and when it had increased sufficiently, he commenced purchasing slaves, land &c. He resided on this place and continued to increase his property until the winter of 1851 and 1852. He then removed to Rankin County and settled between Richland [and] Tumbalo Creeks, four miles south of Brandon where he died when somewhere above 80 years of age. Prior to his death, he had accumulated about 100 slaves, a large tract of land and a considerable quantity of other property. His only surviving son now resides in Covington County. He had only two daughters, one the mother of B. F. Berry and others; the other, the mother of A. J. Ragland and others.
About 1822, James Boggan emigrated from Anson County, North Carolina and settled for a short time in Wayne County, and soon after removed to this county and settled on the east side of Silver Creek, opposite where T. A. Walker now lives, here he remained until his death which occurred at a very old age. He left no children, and he and his wife, Judith Boggan, were both buried at a graveyard near his residence. He was followed to this country soon after his arrival here by Joseph Boggan who settled the place now owned by T. A. Walker who married a grand-daughter of his. Jesse Boggan, father of Alex, and others, also come to the county about the same time and settled on the place 3 miles east of Westville where his son J. J. Boggan now lives. Joseph Boggan was what might be called a professional hunter and kept until his death (which occurred about 1863 form paralysis of the throat and under jaw) a pack of hounds; and when game was plentiful, he killed a great many deer, turkeys &c. He was also a successful farmer. All three of that name were pious, up right, and good citizens.

Rev. Francis Walker, (grandfather of most persons of that name in this vicinity) was one of the first settlers on that prong of Silver Creek, his residence was on the place now occupied by his grandson, H. A. Walker. He was the father of Richard, Wm, Asa, Willis, G. W. & R. J. Walker, besides several daughters, one of whom married W. R. Shivers. She is still living in this county. He was the grandfather of Hon. T. B. Walker and German Walker; each of whom at different times represented the county in the Legislature. His descendents are very numerous; nearly all of whom are pious, up right members of the church, and have very little use for the criminal side of the dockets. Wm. T. Brown about 55 years ago, owned the place where D. D. Benson now lives, which he sold to W. K. Easterling; and John Norwood about the same time, lived on the west side of the creek north of Mt. Zion Church; and in 1850, Easterling sold the Benson place to Norwood.

Mt. Zion Church was among the first churches in the county, and was usually attended by large congregations.

Owen Weathersby who married a daughter of Robert Magee, settled on the place occupied by W. O. Shivers about 1834, where he remained until his death. His aged widow is still living. They had no children to survive them to inherit their property which would have been considerable had it not been for the devastating consequences of the last war.

Stephen Gardner moved from Marion County about 1828, and settled on the head of this pronge of Silver Creek, above where E. M. Brooks now lives, where he died about 25 years ago, leaving no children. He willed his property to his nephew, W. W. Gardner.

Number 9 - Westville News - Sept. 12, 1889

It being generally conceded that there are at least three classes of honest men- some for policy; others because the law forces them to be peculiarly honest, while there are others who are conscientiously honest, no better type of the last class could be found than in the person of Pipkin Smith who settled on the eastern prong of Silver Creek about 63 years ago. [about 1826] He was regarded as so scrupulously honest that he would suffer himself wronged before he would incur the displeasure of any one. He was very humane towards his stock and servant "Isham" the only one he owned; and usually taking a cup of coffee between meals it was his custom when plowing in the field to have the horn sounded at a certain hour, when he and his servant would take their horses to the well, water them and hitch them in the shade to rest and cool, while he and his servant went to the house and each took a cup of coffee before returning to their work; this was invariably done both before and after noon. His sons having done his marketing at Jackson, he never visited the place during at least 40 years of his life; but he made his first trip there during the war while his sons were in the army. Tobias Magee lived east of Smith a few years on the place now occupied by R. L. Cone.German Berry and his wife Susan the grand-parents of Richmond Walker, Hon. L. B. & German Walker, settled the place now owned by L. W. Berry about 70 years ago. [about 1819] He having died many years ago, and his children having settled elsewhere, his widow Mrs. Susan Berry remained on the place until her death which occurred during the war, about 1864. She was the only white person on the place but had several slaves with her. It was known among her relatives that she had accumulated some money, but no one knew where she kept it; and after her death a search was made about her residence in every place where it was thought the money could be found but all to no purpose. it was so well known that she had money that the search was pursued and the unlikely places were being ransacked and overhauled. There was a back room to the house which she used as a store room for plunder, such as broken chairs, unused furniture, bee gums, broom straw &c. where the hens often made nests, the door being sometimes fastened with a chain and ordinary pad lock. Believing that the money was stored away somewhere about the house, the search was persecuted into this unlikely apartment, the old furniture was thoroughly examined the broom straw overhauled the baskets of quilt rags were examined and nearly all hopes of finding the hidden treasure had vanished, when German Walker, who was somewhat experienced in executing search warrants, took a hen's nest out of an old bee gum where a hen had hatched a brood of chickens, and found in the bottom of the gum about $1500, in gold, which was quite a sum of that coin during the war as that article was then very scarce and hard to get.

In 1850, Rev. James Murray sold his place on the middle prong of Silver Creek (where he had lived many years) to W. R. Shivers, and temporarily moved to Westville for the purpose of sending his children to school, and subsequently moved to Pearl River where he died. Eli Myers settled on the place where his son Isham now lives, and built a grist mill on the creek, about 60 years ago; and there are still some evidences of the location of the mill, although it has not been in use for more than 20 years.

Col. Jeremiah Fortenberry once lived on Silver Creek and Isaac Fortenberry settled on the J. R. Fortenberry place about 60 years ago; and Willis Huckaby for many years lived on the creek above Fortenberry's. He and his brother Wilson Huckaby emigrated from Richmond County, N. C. The latter had a son killed, about 50 years ago, on the road not exceeding 100 yards south of H. K. Farmers place in Westville. This occurred from his being thrown against a pine while running a horse.

In 1837 or 8, Col. J. M. Dampeer, who first married a grand-daughter of German and Susan Berry, merchandised at the place where L. W. Berry now lives. He afterwards moved to the place where he died [and] where his widow now lives. His second wife was Mrs. Susan Woodward, formerly Miss Hutchins, and his widow was Mrs. Susan Slater formerly Miss Allen.

Daniel and Henry Beasly were among the first settlers on the middle prong of Silver Creek. Lewis Holyfield settled on the place now occupied by his widow and son Wm. On an accurate calculation of the number of miles he had ridden in going to and returning from mill made from his statement, it amounted to nearly the distance around the earth. He was a model of piety, and a strict member in the Methodist Church for more than forty years prior to his death, which occurred very suddenly in the field while assisting his son in digging potatoes.

Henry Beasly, who lived on the S. Drummonds place, left his wife after he had sold the place and went to Texas (in company with another women) where he afterwards died. His wife at an extreme old age was supported at the expense of the county until her death. During the time he lived in the county he was very successful in raising horses and mules, but having no one to assist him in cultivating his farm he frequently kept as many as five head of horses and mules on hand when one was suffiecient to answer his purposes, consequently it required his utmost efforts, to raise or procure a sufficient quantity of corn and forage to keep them in good condition and he sometimes had to sell one to buy feed for the others.

Number 10 - Westville News - Sept. 19, 1889

Commencing where the western prong of Silver Creek runs into Lawrence County the places were owned by Evan and Gilbert Shivers, two brothers both of whom died before the war. These places are both owned by E. C. Shivers (the son of the former.) He was a volunteer in the Confederate Army, and come out of the war in but little better pecuniary condition that the majority of those who had served four years during that disastrous conflict; but by industry and economy with strict attention to his own business, regardless of what other people were doing he has acquired titles to large tracts of valuable lands, and owns considerable personal property, the product of successful farming, and stock raising. Besides this he has expended a considerable amount in endeavoring to give his children the benefits of a liberal education, and at the same time provide the necessary comforts and luxuries for his family.
John P. Toler, about 50 years ago occupied the place on the eastern side of this Creek, just above the Shivers places. His principal occupation was that of teamster, hauling freights from Jackson and other markets. He afterwards sold out and moved to Texas.

E. Owens, who was at one time Judge of the Probate Court of this county, once narrated to the writer that when he was married, neither he or his wife possessed any property, goods, nor chattels, outside of wearing apparel with which to commence keeping house; but each being determined to succeed in life in accumulating some of this worlds goods, they repaired and old out house, and with such articles as they were able to collect together, resolutely embarked on the voyage of life, about 65 years ago, and succeeded in accumulating a considerable quantity of property. His wife died about 1858, and he, about 1866, at the place now owned by his son, G. W. Owens.

The next place up the creek was first settled about 1819, by Isaac Newsom who sold the improvements to Wm. Gates who several years after wards, sold to Col. J. M. Dampeer, (and removed to Pearl River, to the A. J. Barron Place;) and it was on this place that Col. Dampeer spent the greater portion of his life, successfully running a farm, and raising stock; and while living here, he was repeatedly elected representative of the county. He was very remarkable for evenness of temper, familiarity, and hospitality, not only sympathizing with distressed or suffering humanity, but ever ready to contribute toward their relief; a friend of widows and orphans, possessing every quality that constitutes a good man. His brother, S. D. Dampeer, married a daughter of Daniel Beasly about 55 years ago, and settled on said creek above the colonels and raised a large respectable family on the place now occupied by his widow. He met with an untimely death, which occurred in consequence of a wagon body or sloop tilting while he was assisting in loading a wagon with freight at Hazlehurst; he being in the wagon at the rear, when the accident occurred, fell, and was so badly bruised by the body or freight falling on him that he soon expired.

William Drummonds, the great uncle of those of that name now living in the county was one among the first settlers of the county. He occupied the place now owned by N. B. Traylor, where he accumulated considerable property and about 20 slaves. he and his wife Margaret both died several years ago; and having no children, he willed his property to his nephew James Drummonds, decd., who then lived where his son Eld. R. Drummonds now resides. Mr. James Drummonds was another estimable man of that community beloved by all who knew him, a devout and consistent member of the Baptist Church, ever ready to intercede to adjust and differences among his neighbors, and preserve peace and good order in the community in which he lived.

Joseph Lane the great grand-father of the Eld. Jo, Lane, settled on the next place above the Drummonds farm about 60 years ago, and there raised several children, all of whom have died or removed to other localities. The place now occupied by Mrs. Mullen had been once settled but was abandoned and in a very dilapidated condition, without any buildings and her husband, A. J. Mullen, entered the land about 35 years ago, and moved from his former home on Bank's Creek and settled this place. He had been several times elected County Treasurer, and while the occupant of this office, he died in 1865 or 1866.

The first settlers on Vaughns Creek were John Briggs, Levi Banks, father of V. S. & Capt. C. B. and others. John Briggs settled the place now owned by Mrs. Moore widow of ex-Sheriff Moore; his son James settled the place owned by J. W. Sherman. Martha Briggs a daughter of John Briggs married a man by the name of Ragland; grand-father of those of that name now living, he having died and she was left a widow a few years after their marriage with three small boys to raise who were barely large enough to do work on the farm, through her own management and their assistance, succeeded in making a sufficiency for a support. There being no lumber to be had to make boxes, wardrobes or shelving, she employed some Indians to make her a large basket to be used in packing away quilts &c., and the customary price of an Indian basket was to have the same filled with shelled corn as a compensation. When the Indians brought the basket, she put her boys to shelling corn to fill it. They shelled and shucked and shelled until their hands were blistered and the pile growing beautifully less, and the basket continuing to swell out and yet not full, the boys became disheartened for fear their supply of bread corn would give out before the next crop was gathered, persuaded their mother to rue the basket trade, but she being the better judge of the sufficiency of the remnants of corn to supply their wants stuck to her trade, and secured the basket. During these days, the bear were very destructive to corn while in roasting ears and Mrs. Ragland sometimes employed the Indians to kill the bear that were depredating upon her corn field, which they were eager to do as they were doubly recompence [compensation] in bear meat and hides, besides what she paid them.


Number 11 - Westville News - Oct. 17, 1889

Paul Jones was among the first who made a permanent settlement on Dabb's Creek. soon after which Lewis Harper who had formally lived in Pike County from whence he removed, settled on the Chandler place on Pearl River east of Georgetown ferry, where he remained a few years and removed to Strong River and settled the place on the north side near Young's bridge where he removed to this creek to the place now occupied by Mrs. Pope, adjoining the Rankin county line. He being in moderate circumstances, and able to live without laboring himself, kept a good pack of hounds, and devoted a considerable portion of his time in his favorite sport of hunting at which he was remarkably successful. Soon after he located on this creek, he was followed by Zachariah Bullock and Mrs. Sarah A. Harper, who formerly lived in Pike county. Jamie L. Hemphill, John Gullege, Thomas McCall, and Martin Crane were also on this creek. McCall is the only one still living. He and Gullege came to this county from near the line of North and South Carolina. Gullege owned a portion of the plantation now owned by J.P. Cox. He had considerable property, but had no family.

Edwin Harper settled on this creek when quite a young man, and had remained there until the present time, and is now over 70 years of age. He accumulated a handsome property, a large portion of which he lost by the emancipation of the slaves; but he is in good circumstances and one among the largest real estate owners of the county.

Thomas Everett, a man of more than ordinary physical strength, (the father of Richard, H.P., and grand-father of R.F. Everett) and [four or five words unreadable] Mr. Middleton, the father of Mrs. Murray, and Wm. Craddock, were early settlers on Sanders Creek.

Edna Magee (the killing of whom in Westville, for which Revels was tried and acquitted as before narrated was also one of the earliest settlers on this creek.

Dr. Wm. Estes, a Christian or Campbellite Minister, lived for many years on a branch of this creek, where the little mill known as "Estes Mill" is situated.
60 Years ago [1829] an old widow lady by the name of Pearc[e] lived altogether by herself where W. D. Benton now resides. She subsisted principally by raising hogs and cattle; and although entirely dependent upon her own efforts, always managed to have sufficiency and appeared to be perfectly contented with her lot. She died at this place in 1853. It is probable that she and her husband were among the first to locate on this creek where he died, but we have no authentic information in this respect. They left no children and had no known relatives.

Thomas Ennis, an Irish school teacher, who sometimes taught a three months school in some locality after the crops were made, lived many years at the next place below Benton. He was well informed and taught many of the rising generation all they ever learned at school. Mal Chaddrock was also one of the early inhabitants of this creek. Roland Hall the grand-father of Eld. Roland Hall, was among the first to locate in this vicinity, on the place afterwards occupied by his son Lewis Hall.

In 1851, Isaac Alexander bought the Elam Vanzandt place and moved to it from Rankin County. he remained on this place until his death which occurred in 1858 or 9. Wm. S. Chandler father of Dr. J. N. was also an early settler on the place now occupied by his widow; and near this place. Richard Walker lived many years where Jesse A. Brown now resides. G[r]over Alexander located on a prong of this creek called India[n] Creek, about the time his father moved to the Vanzandt place.

Keenan Meeks was the first man to locate on the old Jackson Road, 8 miles above the county seat on what was then considered a very poor pine ridge, near an excellent spring. But the quality of the land made out little difference to him as the range was good, and stock raising was his principal occupation. At that time his was the only settlement on that road between Strong River and the Rankin County line (a distance of fifteen miles) where Wm. Cupp settled on the head waters of Big Creek still known as "Cupp's Branch". After the land office was opened at Jackson this road was traveled very often by person[s] going to enter land, and those two were the only places for many miles where any accommodations could be had; but several years afterwards, about 5 miles north of Meeks, on this road, where there are still some evidences of former habitation, J. J. Prewitt built a very comfortable framed cottage where he often entertained travelers with more than ordinary accommodations for the times. He remained here many years, but subsequently removed to the Estes Mill where he died about 3 years ago. He raised and left surviving him a respectable family, all of whom are devoted Christians of the Baptist faith. His aged widow still survives anticipating that but a few years can possibly elapse before she too will be called hence to test the realities of the unknown future.

Number 12 - Westville News - Oct. 24, 1889

For the information hereinafter stated with reference to the early settlers on Big Creek, Limestone, and Pearl River, in District 5 the writer is indebted to the Hon. G. P. Touchstone, now over 70 years of age, whose memory is still fresh with the scenes of his early boyhood, and is possessed of more than ordinary activity and sprightliness for one of his age, which is mainly attributable to the fact that he was of a different temperament from most of his contemporaries when the county possessed no educational advantages and was almost beyond the bounds of civilization, where there were no churches or schools, and no mails by which communication could be had with the outer world, no newspapers or Sunday literature, when such a thing as a Sunday school was never thought of, -yet the Judge availed himself of every advantage and opportunity that presented itself to gain information, and thus, almost without the advantage of a teacher, he succeeded in acquiring a tolerable education, and one much better than many others who had better opportunity and being morally inclined, he stood aloof from the wild habits of pioneer youths, and his proverbial honesty and uprightness gained for him the esteem and admiration of all with whom he was intimately acquainted. His counsel was then, as now, often invoked in neighborhood dissensions and litigated matters, which were thereby frequently adjusted. He was often promoted to office, among which was that of Judge of the Probate Court; the duties of which he discharged to the satisfaction of his constituents. Invariably meting out justice to litigants, his decisions were regarded as final, as no appeal was ever prosecuted to a higher tribunal with the expectation of a reversal.
Learning that the writer hereof was attempting to give some historical statements of the early settlers, Judge Touchstone furnished the following information written by himself. "In 1828, Nathanial Goff settled the place on Limestone Creek now occupied by John G. Stuckey. About two weeks afterwards, Dempsey Touchstone (who was the father of G.P.) settled two miles west of Harrisville where A. P. Mahaffey now lives. They found two brothers here by the name of Parber, who shortly afterwards went east. The next year, Henry Barlow and his twin brothers N. G. & G. W. Barlow, settled above Goffs. The preceding year, John Richardson settled the place where W. J. Burkett now lives, and built the first watermill on Limestone Creek which did the grinding for many years.

Four miles above the mouth of the creek, on Pearl River, was Jonathan Bass, on the place now known as the Thompson place; about one mile above him, Thomas Bell, a man of property settled, where he established a ferry across the river known for many years as "Belle Ferry," where there was a great deal of crossing. One mile above this, was James Welch; one mile above was John C. Weeks, and one mile further up river, Edmond Barron settled, and this was as far up the river as the settlements then extended.
Up to this time no one had located on Rocky Creek.
On Big Creek Thomas Hilton (father of A. C. Hilton) located on the place now occupied by Wm. Taylor and Loyd Kelly, opposite him on the east side of the creek, where Wm. Hinson resides. Two miles above was James W. Taylor, where Daniel Thurman now lives; and two miles above there, Wm. Hilton, on the place where W. D. Mahaffey, Esqr. now resides. These men and their families composed the entire population of Saml. Jones who was on the place now owned by W. J. Shivers, in the fork of Limestone and Goff's Creek.
The Choctaw Indians were plentiful here then, and well do I remember his savage yell.
The first cotton gin in this region was built by Dempsey Touchstone, at his residence. The privations which these men endured, encountered, and overcame, were beyond description.
The nearest Black Smith shops were at Georgetown & Steen's Creek. The one at the latter place was carried on by a young man by the name of Robert Laird. There were no roads; nothing but Indian trails. Many of their old blazes are yet to be seen; no churches; no schools.


Number 13 - Westville News - Nov. 28, 1889

The first store where goods were sold and bartered for furs; pelts, wool, &c, in district 5, [Harrisville] was built of logs, by the firm of Lambright & Hatch at the Goff place now owned by J. G. Stucky. They carried on a mercantile business there about 3 years and relied exclusively upon the honor of those to whom they extended credit, as no such things as deeds of trust were then in use or exacted, and the people being honestly inclined were punctual to meet their accounts. And in this connection it might be said, that there are three classes of honest persons; one class in honest as a matter of policy; another class is honest because the demands of the law forces them to be so; but the most honorable are those who are conscientiously honest and follow the maxim of "do unto others as you would have them do unto you," but the immoral consequences of the late was detracted a great deal from the original standard of honesty of intention, and thinned the latter class so that they now seem like the vidette pickets [mounted sentries] in the advance of a numerous army. But there are still some of this class who would scorn the idea of doing a dishonest deed even in abject poverty, if by so doing they could better their financial condition; and such verify the assertion that honesty is not confined to those in prosperous circumstances. About the time that Lambright & Hatch started their store, a voting precinct was established at their place of business, at which every ballot cast was accredited to those for whom it was cast, as then there were no accusations of ballot box stuffing, intimidation, or tampering with the conduct of elections.There were then but two contending political parties, and each were acknowledged to be honest in their intentions and administration of the affairs of government, and no corruption was alleged against either; but they honestly differed in policy. The Whigs advocating national aid to encourage internal improvements to enhance the national respectability of the government, develop the resources, and place here in an attitude to defend her coasts against any combined efforts to over throw her republican institutions which were antagonizing crowned heads and productive of discontent among those who were governed by monarchial rule. They also advocated a tariff to protect our infant manufacturing institutions so as to enable them to cope with the importations form foreign countries; but these infant manufacturing companies having been fed on government pap, have "grown with their growth and strengthened with their strength," until they have arrived at years of maturity and now need no paternal guardianship.
Owing to a deficiency of a circulating medium or representation of value, they also advocated the establishment of a National Bank and the issuance of currency by the government. This however was before the [unreadable] of America had been explored and the mineral wealth of California and the western territories had been brought to the surface.
The Democratic party opposed the proposition to render national aid to individuals or corporations to encourage internal improvements; but subsequently did grant large tracts of public land to encourage the building of Rail Roads and to improve the navigation of rivers. This party advocated a tariff for revenue only and opposed the establishment of a National Bank and adhered to the metallic currency.
In the memorable National contest for the supremacy of the contending parties, when Gen. Harrison was the Whig candidate for President, and log cabins were paraded with the latchstring outside the door, and a tin cup and hard cider within, and a tame coon ensconced in a dug-out then called a canoe in honor of the chieftain of the Battle of Tippecanoe, [the year 1840] it was then that the Whig ladies around Jackson and throughout the State had prepared an exquisitely wrought Satin banner with gilt fringe and the State coat of arms imprinted thereon, which they proposed to have delivered to the Whigs of the country that presented the largest numerical strength at the State convention of their party, and beat 5 being adjacent to the capital they rallied almost to a man, among whom were the Hiltons, Barlows, and Touchstones; and the liberty loving scotch, true to their proclivities at the call of the pibroch, [bagpipe music] came from all parts of the county, and were awarded the emblematic prize which was tendered to the Whigs of Simpson County by the chairman of their State executive committee in a well arranged speech, which was extemporaneously responded to by J. B. Mendenhall who was selected to receive the banner. This banner he retained until his removal from the county when he surrendered it to Col. G. W. Williams, and in all probability it is still in possession of some of his descendants.


Number 14 - Westville News - Dec. 17, 1889

Asa Miller Sr., and his six sons, to-wit; Alexander, Asa Jr., Richard, John, Samuel, and Bruce and their families were among the first to settle on Pearl River in this county. Richard and Capt. John Butler settled below the mouth of Rocky Creek. They were all moral and upright but Richard was especially noted for his strict integrity firmness, and adherence to principles, and ranked among the true tried, and loyal members of the Masonic fraternity.
Capt. Butler was a brother-in-law of the Millers and father of Levi Butler, now a citizen of Rankin County, and Grand-father of our energetic citizen, Wm. Butler who is engaged in the mill business near New Zion. Although the Miller colony were not emigrants from the hills of Scotland, they were a somewhat clannish folk, and were particularly jealous of their rights and the rights of their friends, and were ever ready to repel any improper encroachment or interference with the rights of their colony or friends. They were remarkable for their industry, economy, and hospitality. They were not grasping after an immense collection of worlds goods, but were content with a sufficiency and always had a bountiful supply of the necessaries of life which were cheerfully divided with those in want and lavishly extended to their guests. Their wearing apparel was principally spun, wove, and made by the females of the family; their winter shoes were made at home from leather tanned in troughs. When the crops had been housed and a bountiful supply had been stored for the ensuing year and the long cold winter nights came on, their respective families were comfortably situated around the hearthstone in the rear of which burned a brilliant fire of hard wood, the glare of which was increased by the application of pine knots, a combustible unknown to the inhabitants of many portions of the earth, but which is indispensable to many southern people, to aid in the speedy production of artificial heat.
In finance matter[s] these people were punctual to the day and never incurred obligations they were unable to meet, and their promises were relied upon as certain to be complied with. This colony prospered and increased rapidly in numbers, and were among the most influential men of the county, until about 1848, they all, except Samuel Miller and his family emigrated and settled in Louisiana on the Sabine River where they became so numerous as to enable them to control the elections of their county. When the tocsin [warning bell] of war was sounded forty young men of their descendents rallied to their country's call, and served until the close of that unpleasant occurrence. It may seem strange but is nevertheless true that while they were always in the front ranks and never shirked from duty they all returned home. Some had lost limbs; others badly wounded and battle-scarred.
Samuel Miller remained here until his death. Two of his descendents expired during the late war. The Rev. R. D. Middleton, formerly of this county but now of Louisiana, married Miss Nancy Miller and raised a large family, most of whom now reside in Louisiana.
The Millers were not a pugnacious people, but would not suffer themselves imposed upon. On one occasion an ill tempered neighbor of the Millers, who lived only about a quarter distance, asserted that he intended to thrash Miller, and supposing there was no fight in Miller, with a view carrying out his threat, he walked over to Miller's gate and challenged him to come out and fight. A fair fight in those days was what was called a "fist and skull" fight without weapons. This challenge he no doubt thought would be disregarded, but greatly to his astonishment Miller promptly responded to the call, and the fighting man took to his heels and Miller took after him. The fighting man being the most athletic, worked in the lead, but Miller came very near capturing him as he crossed his yard fence which he gracefully cleared at a single leap. Miller not disposed to invade the castle of his antagonist, returned home somewhat wrathy but much amused at the speed exhilarated in his neighbor's retreat.

Number 15 - Westville News - June 14, 1900.

But few persons are familiar with the significance of the term candidate, or know anything of its origin. In the Roman republic, when men aspired to an office to distinguish them form others, they were clad in white suits intended to be indicative of their fairness and ability to administer or discharge the duties of the office sought, equitably and without partiality.
While the purity of character and fitness for office is still indicated by the term, yet much corruption is artfully hidden beneath this robe of virtue, and so deeply seated and securely secreted, that no index of degradation can be discerned by human ken! [that cannot be understood by human beings] Although centuries have passed since the origin of the term it is still in universal use in every country where elective franchise is exercised. The first of these fair minded men made their appearance in district five [Harrisville] of this county, about the year 1830, in the persons of Daniel S. Farnington, a successful aspirant for the office of sheriff, (which office he held for several terms), and Franklin E. Plummer, first a candidate for representative and subsequently a member of congress.
About this time a transient pedagogue [strict teacher] would occasionally teach a little school for three or four weeks, which seemed to have a better effect, make more lasting impressions and impart more information than the free term of four months as now taught. Such things as churches and religious services were then rare, and no chime of church bells was to be heard, and no chanting of church music by harmonious choirs. The human voice set to common meter in treble, bass and tenor, furnished all the music desired; and many thought it immoral and sacrilegious to introduce instrumental music in Devine worship. [a Calvinist and or Primitive Baptist belief] Now and then a man by the name of Morris would pass through the county and preach at private houses. When their appointments were made known, the surrounding community would congregate en masse, some of whom would go several miles on foot. About the year 1838 the first itinerant Methodist preacher by the name of Thornburg made his appearance in this region and created a considerable sensation. Through his efforts, aided by Judge John Enochs and Henry Barlow, two of nature's noblemen, considerable enthusiasm sprung up on Mountain and Big Creeks, and a pole cablin was erected on the latter creek for a Methodist church and called Bethel, where were sown the seeds from which grew the present Methodist church at Harrisville.
In the meantime, the Baptist sentiment increased, and the members of that faith and order became very numerous; so much so that it became necessary to build a Baptist church, which was located north of Strong River, and is still known as Fork Church, deriving the name from the location between the junction of Pearl and Strong River.
About this time a Baptist minister hv [having] the name of James Powell occupied the sacred stand and wielded a powerful influence for good and was really a Samaritan of the times. His influence was not circumscribed but extended far and wide. He traveled through heat and cold, and preached both night and day. A special mission of his was to visit the sick and distressed and administer to the wants of suffering humanity. There being no physicians in the country then, fearless of contagion, he visited the very hovels of death, and rendered material physical, as well as spiritual aid to the suffering, and his songs of solace and words of consolation were cheering to departing spirits.

Number 16 - Westville News - July 12, 1900.

As is usually the case, the disposition of the human family to search for the famed Eldorado, universally exists; and during the year 1837, 8, & 9, the fertility of the soil of Texas and her immense plains of pasturage (where the natural growth of forage was sufficient to sustain vast herds of cattle that roamed at will, and keep them in good condition for marketing, and where the game could be captured almost at will, and the occupants of that vast area of country could bask in idleness and feed upon the fat of the land almost without an effort) was freely discussed and circulated from mouth to ear, and created a great deal of excitement especially among the discontented. These fabulous and exaggerated stories of living without an effort in flower scented fairy land of milk and honey, wealth and plenty, induced several person[s], to abandon their prosperous homes, and emigrate with their family to the land of promise. Among those was Wm. Whitmore from near the country line on the head waters of Big Creek, at the place known as the Ruthford place where J. B. Mendenhall, in 1851 laid the foundation for a Tan yard, but subsequently abandoned the project, Jesse Hickman removed from the valuable farm now owned by John Clark, and Wm. Lovett from Mr. Lamberts place. The excitement demoralized Ance Cupp, and he deserted the place on which Rev. J. J. Harper now lives, and John Cupp with a hope of bettering his condition, left the valley of the branch still known as "Cupps branch" which is the head waters of Big Creek. West of Harpers are some valuable woods lands, a portion of which was purchased from the U. S. Government, many years ago, by Miles White deceased, formerly a millionaire of the city of Baltimore, when by his last will and testament donated one hundred thousand dollars to the "Miles White Benevolent Association" of that city.

These lands now belong to his son Francis White of that city.
Oliver Mahaffey removed from the place now owned by Mr. Boyd, on what was formerly called the Keen branch. The Texas fever extended to Robert Mahaffey who then lived on the S. B. Mullen place, and to Wm. Mahaffey who occupied the George Guynes place, and they decamped. A. D. Hornsly left the place known as Grahams old mills, and Thomas Hornsly the premises now known as the Heard place and Daniel Lowe removed form the D. Neely place which was subsequently occupied by Wm McFerrram. Some of these persons roamed over Texas and found the attractions were not so great as they anticipated. Some of them remained there while other[s] returned and located in the vicinity of their former homes where they prospered. Among these was a most excellent gentleman and useful citizen, the late Robert Mahaffey who was greatly missed in the community. He accumulated property which was estimated to be worth at the commencement of the war, near $50,000. His brother William also returned, and by strict economy and untiring energy accumulated property and raised a large family. About this time Joseph G. Spell settled on the tributary of Big Creek which is still known as Spells Creek.
He raised a large and respectable family on the place now occupied by his son, Josiah Spell, a thrifty and prosperous farmer, accumulating some property on the old homestead, which is conclusive evidence that a country never wears out when occupied by men who take into consideration that they are responsible to future generations for wasting timber and permitting their lands to wash into gullies and deteriorate in value. An old gentleman by the name of Mark Wheeler whom the writer thinks was Spell's father-in-law came to the county with him and spent the remnant of his days here. His principal occupations was riving and drawing shingles at which he was a success.

Number 17 - Westville News - July 19, 1900.

In 1860, Jeremiah Mullican, who was then over 80 years old, resided on the head of Big Creek where S. B. Mullen now lives. He owned several slaves, among whom was a woman who was troublesome and often disobeyed his orders, though he was not exacting of his slaves, but treated them kindly.On one occasion this woman was so disobedient that he threatened to thrash her, and made some demonstration toward doing so, when she ran off. The old man not being able to pursue her, reached to his gun rack over the door, took down his old unerring rifle, and fired at her at the distance of 110 yards. The ball took effect, but the wound was not considered dangerous at the time. He, however, sent for Dr. Boteler, [cannot locate person] an old physician who lived not far off, to treat the wound; which he did for several days, but the woman died. It was somewhat doubtful with the legal fraternity whether the wound of the treatment caused her death.
After her death, Mullican was arrested, and required by John E. McNair, then Circuit Judge, to enter into recognizance for his appearance at the next term of the Circuit Court, in a bond of $40,000, which he readily did.
Exacting a bond of that size is an evidence that the life of slaves was well protected at that time as that of the most influential person. Mullican died before his case was tried.
About 25 years before this occurrence, he lived on Pearl River, near Palestine church, a close neighbor of the father of Rev. Robt. Middleton. This was at a time when physicians and medicines were rather scarce in that section, and the people generally depended on their more experienced neighbors to doctor their families. Mullican made a trip down to Georgetown, and among other things bought from Dr. Harris a pound of calomel [Mercury Chloride- also used as a laxative, disinfectant, and fungicide] and a quart of castor oil. He wanted the oil in case any of his family should get sick, and the calomel for the purpose of removing what was then called "screw worms," which bored into the flesh of cattle whenever there was an abrasion of the hide, which often proved fatal.
Not long after he had procured these medicines, he was taken very sick and his neighbor, Middleton, came over one evening to see him, and there while there he said, "Jerry, you're mighty sick, and I think you had better take some calomel, and if you do so, take a plenty." Middleton returned home, and Mullican seemed to grow worse. Some time late at night he told his wife he would take the calomel if she would get it. This was at a time when long handled iron spoons were in use. So she brought him one of those table spoons about full and he asked her if that was enough, to which she replied that she did not know, as she had never taken any nor seen any given. "Well," said he, "probably you had better get a little more." So she heaped the spoon so that there was some on the handle and he took it. Early next morning Middleton came down to see him, and asked his wife how he was. She replied that he was mighty sick last night, but he was lying quietly now. Middleton went to the bed, tried to arouse him but failed. After examining him he said, "I believe he is dying. Did he take the calomel?" She said "yes, he took that spoon heaping up full that you see lying there on the table" Middleton at once saw his condition and inquired if they had any oil. She said "there's a bottle on the shelf that has never been opened." "Well, have you got any ropes?" She said "yes, there are some ox ropes down at the lot." He said "you get the ropes while I open the bottle of oil." There was no time to spare and when the ropes were brought, Middleton had them around Mullican, under his arms, and threw them over the joist and drew him up and drenched him, horse fashion, with the oil, and then churned him up and down for awhile, then repeated the drench after which he continued his churning operation and the oil had the desired effect. Mullican recovered.
While under arrest for shooting the negro, he complained of being unwell, when it was suggested to him that probably he had better take some calomel, to which he replied that he took some once but never expected to take way more, and then he narrated the foregoing statement, saying that he knew something about what took place after he took the calomel [however] until the oil acted, [he] only [knew what] as he was told.