Lowmans settled in Searight community

By Curtis Thomasson
The Andalusia Star-News

For an undetermined reason, Malachias and Martha, moved their family from South Carolina to Covington County in 1853. They had five young children at the time and had four more after arriving here. Malachias purchased land in the vicinity of what is now known as Searight and lived there until his death. He and Martha and some of the children are buried in unmarked graves on property in what is locally known as the Lowman Cemetery. In 1866, the area became a part of the newly created Crenshaw County.

About three years after Malachias’ arrival, his brother, Harmon Luther, decided to move his family to this area. In 1856, the land in Covington County was being made available at a very attractive price. Also, the brothers’ wives were sisters and probably missed each other very much. In addition, a third sister, Mary Jane Wise, and her husband, Dr. T.J. Compton, came to Covington County about the same time as Harmon and Rebecca. Compton was one of the earlier medical doctors to serve this area.

The Compton family was enumerated in the 1860 census with T.J. being 52 years of age and Mary Ann, 36 years. They had with them the following children: B.J.F., 19; Amsey C., 17; Sarah J., 15; Alice, 13; Elizabeth, 11; Davis, 8; and Amanda, 5. Alice was listed as the first one to be born in Alabama.

Harmon and Rebecca lived just south of the present town of Dozier where all eight of their children were born. In 1878, Harmon moved his family to Guadalupe County, Texas, and settled in the small town of Staples. Several members of the Compton family also moved to that area, likely at the same time.

Malachias and Martha reared the following children: Elizabeth Ann, b. 1843, d. 1923, m. Elder Levi Tyler Wells; John Frederick, b. 1844, d. 1923, m. Matilda Caroline Rowell; James Walter Edmond, b. 1847, d. ca 1865, single; Mary Jane, b. 1849, d. 1933, m. Michael Simpson Parrish; Benjamin Lloyd, b. 1852, d. 1926, m. Elizabeth Evasteen Thompson; Rosie Julie, b. 1854, d. 1934, m. Joseph Willard Cooper; Laura Rebecca, b. 1857, d. ca 1885, m. Andrew Jackson Sims; Sarah, b. 1859, d. 1924, m. John Clement White; and Malachi H., b. 1862, d. after1880.

Elizabeth and her husband, Levi Tyler Wells, son of Michael and Elefare (Handley) Wells, reared the following children: Mary Ann Elizabeth, b. 1861, d. 1917, m. James Daniel Bozeman; Malachi Dozier, b. 1864, d. 1941, m. Emma Delilah Jones; Ada Henrieta, b. 1866, d. 1944, m. William Green Chandler; Robert E., b. 1868, d. 1906, m. Fannie L. Benson; Michael Emanuel, b. 1860, d. 1909, m. Pearl Bethea Moore; Benjamin Lloyd, b. 1872, d. 1922, m. Beulah V. Sasser; Elefare, b. 1875, d. 1965, m. James A. Nall; and Martha E., b.& d. 1875.

John Frederick was named for his grandfathers, Johannes (John) Lowman and Frederick Wyse (Wise). At the age of 18, he enlisted in the Confederate Army at Leon on March 21, 1862, as a 4th. Corporal. He reported for muster roll at Auburn in Dowdell’s 37th. Alabama Infantry Regiment. After several battles his company surrendered at the Seige of Vicksburg and the men were held prisoners. When he was released he probably went home. He later rejoined his regiment and became the 2nd. Sergeant in Company D of the 37th. He was with General Johnston when he surrendered his army at Greensboro, N.C., late in May 1865.

John and his wife, Matilda Caroline Rowell, the daughter of James and Lucinda (Wheeler) Rowell, reared the following nine children: Martha Rebecca, b. 1868, d. 1943, m. Henry Jackson Merrill; Walter Wesley, b. 1870, d. 1956, m. Clara Ridell Rainer; Lizzie Arrie Mittie, b. 1872, d. 1901, m. James Thomas Clark; James Malichi, b. 1875, d. 1937, m. Annie Izora Taylor; Harmon Abner, b. 1876, d. 1949, m. (1) Evelyn Christine Ray (2) ? (3) Elizabeth Williams; Benjamin Edmond, b. 1878, d. 1958, m. Agnes Mae Sturgis; John Quincy, b. 1881, d. 1954, m. Anna Belle Kirkland; Lenorah A., b. 1883, d. 1919; and Hardy Lee, b. 1886, d. 1971, m. Gracie Capitola Sturgis.

James Walter Edmond joined the Confederate Army while very young as he was only 18 years of age when the war ended. He served in the same unit, Co. D, 37th. Ala. Inf. Reg’t, as his brother, John, but no enlistment date is given. He was discharged on the same day as John in North Carolina, but he was a patient in the Presbyterian Church Hospital. It is not known if he made it home, but the 1866 state census indicated he died of an illness during 1865.

Mary Jane and her husband, Michael Simpson Parrish, son of Hamilton and Belinda (Handley) Parrish, moved to Texas in 1869 and reared 13 children. Only the names of the following four are known at this time: Ida, b. ca 1869; Benjamin, b. ca 1870; Roston; and Mary Byrnie, b. 1888, d. 1930. Michael had served in the Confederate Army in the same regiment as his future brothers in law. He worked as a school teacher and then as a merchant.

Benjamin Lloyd and his wife, Elizabeth Thompson, daughter of Andrew and Mary (Sims) Thompson, reared the following children: Daisy Bell, b. 1877, d. 1943, m. George Jefferson Parker; Hellena Mae, b. 1880, m. George Etheridge; Etta Safonie, b. 1882, d. 1977, m. William Howell Robbins; Claud Otha, b. 1884, d. 1945; Eric Thompson, b. 1886, d. 1949; Bessie Alice, b. 1889, d. 1977, m. James Legon Stowers; Roson Pollard, b. 1892, d. 1969, m. Ruby Estelle Bozeman; and Charles Dewey, b. 1898, d. 1992, m. Alma Finkley.

Rosie Julie and her husband, Joseph Willard Cooper, son of John and Nancy Cooper, reared the following children: Ethel Lenora, b. 1876, d. ca 1952, m. (1) Tillman Carter (2) Robert D. Shehane; Fodie, b. 1877, d. 1963, m. Della Robbins; Laura E., b. 1882, m. Jesse Carter; John Wesley, b. 1883, d. 1952; Fletcher H., b. 1887,d. 1954; Mattie Mae, b. 1895, d. 1969, m. James Oliver Bozeman; and Eula Merle Cooper, b. 1900, m. Willie C. Gammage.

Laura Rebecca and her husband, Andrew Jackson Sims, son of Eldridge and Martha (Robbins) Sims, reared the following children: Malichi, b. 1881; John Calvin “Jack,” b. 1883; and Sidney, b. 1885.

Sarah and her husband, John Clement White, son of George and Sina (Goodwin) White, reared the following children: James Samford, b. 1876, d. 1938, m. Daisy Dean Linam; Joyce Cornelia, b. 1878, d. 1964, m. Lazarus Parker; John Beauregard, b. 1880, d. 1951, m. Amanitus Sims; Joseph Oscar, b. 1882, d. 1896; Justus Arthur, b. 1885, d. 1975, m. Tessie Mae Perkins; Artie Missie, b. 1889, d. 1972, m. Berle Lafayette Boyette; Lena Mae, b. 1891, d. 1968, m. John Ransom Caton; and Esther Pauline, b. 1896, d. 1972.

Considerable research has been done on this family and much more genealogy is available; therefore, the lineage will be taken further in next week’s column. One of the researchers of this family is Charles Lowman, and it is to him that we express appreciation for sharing his family history.

Anyone who might have corrections or additions to the above is requested to contact Curtis Thomasson at Route 9, Box 97, Andalusia, AL 36420 or e-mail: chthom@alaweb.com

Query:

Seeking information on Charlie Sanford Radford, a railroad brake man who was killed at age 36 with his young son when his car rolled off a ferry near Holmes County, Fla. He grew up in Covington County and was married to Eula Mae (Howell). Please contact Faye Hold at Tholt6886@charter.net.

Hartzog family settled in Loango

By Curtis Thomasson
The Andalusia Star-News

A generation later, Wiley was married to Epsey Lee in 1841 in Barbour County. Wiley and Epsey had eight children born to them while residing in Barbour and Henry counties. In 1864, George W. was serving in Co. I, 4th. Reg’t Ala. (Senior) Reserves. He was listed as 47 years of age with grey eyes, dark hair, fair complexion, and standing 5-feet and 8-inches tall.

One of their children , John, was born in 1847. On March 10, 1862, he enlisted in the Confederate Army at age 15. On July 10, 1864, he was wounded at Peachtree Creek, Ga. He recovered and rejoined his regiment and was paroled at Greensboro, N.C., on May 1, 1865. His grave marker indicates he served in Co. K, 29th. Ala. Inf. Reg’t.

In 1871, John was married to Sara Louisa “Lou” Trammell in Barbour County. It was their family who moved to Covington County sometime before the 1900 census was taken. It appears to have been circa 1895 when this family settled in the Loango Community where they engaged in farming.

John and Lou reared the following 10 children: Claudia, b. 1872, d. 1901, m. John Lott; Daniel Mabry “Mabe,” b. 1876, d. 1959, m. Nealy Hayes; Barney, b. 1877, d. 1901, single; Albert “Ab” Alexander, b. 1880, d. 1926, m. Rena Walker; Marvin, b. 1885, m. Emma Woolem; Mary Alice, b. 1882, d. 1908, m William Irwin Hutcheson; James Henry “Jim,” b. 1888, d. 1953, m. Gretchen McNair; Florence “Jenny” Virginia, b. 1889, d. 1966, m. William Wallace Eiland; Lena, b. 1893, d. 1938, m. Bluford Hutcheson; and Cody Eugene, b. 1898, d. 1923, single.

The oldest daughter, Claudia, and her husband, John Lott, had five children before her untimely death in 1901. These included the following: Vela, b. 1892, d. 1972, m. Lucius Walters; Coaly, b. 1894, d. 1959; Roy, b. 1896; Berie, b. 1899, d. 1978, m. Reuben Findley; and Lucretia, b.& d., 1901. Claudia died during the year of Lucretia’s birth. Vela and Berie married and reared their families in Covington County. Coaly and Roy reached adulthood and moved away. Claudia and John are buried in the Herbert Cemetery near Evergreen.

The oldest son, Daniel Mabry, and his wife, Nealy Hayes, farmed and operated a sawmill in the Red Level area. They reared the following six children: Horace, b. 1900, d. 1935, m. Minerva Phillips; Barney, b. 1908, d. 1987, m. (1) Louise Barrow (2) Louise Hartley; Fannie Lou, b. 1910, d. 1996, m. William F. Mitchell; Daniel Mabry Jr., b. 1917, d. 1998, m. Dorothy Burdick; and Trammell, b. 1920, d. 1945, m. Ruby Colman.

The son, Barney, had not married when he was killed at the age of 24 years. He lost his life in 1901 when a tree fell on him while working in the woods. He was buried in the Fairmount Cemetery in Red Level.

Albert Alexander “Ab” and his wife, Rena Walker, were married in 1902 and lived in Loango where they reared six children: Foy Clyde, b. 1903, d. 1942, single; Bonnie Lee, b. 1905, d. 1997, m. Olin Eiland; John Lofton “Bud,” b. 1906, d. 1942, single; Hattie Lou, b. 1908, d. 1987, m. Johnny Fendley; Clodine, b. 1910, d. 1995, m. Charlie Wilmer Smith; Gertha Audrey, b. 1917, d. 1987, m. James Leonard Hoyle. Ab was accidentally killed in 1926 while working for the River Falls Power Company. He and Rena are buried in the Fairmount Cemetery.

Marvin and his wife, Emma Woolem, moved to Arizona soon after their marriage. They reared two children, Cody and Evelyn, and continued to reside there until their deaths. None of their descendants have returned to this area.

Alice and her husband, William Irvin Hutcheson, lived in the Loango Community and reared two children: Effie L., b. 1903, d. 1995, m. John Tallie James; and Leon Alfred, b. 1905, d. 1976, m. Emma Lou Eiland. After Alice’s death, William Irvin was married to Mertie Kent. Alice and Will are buried in the Fairmount Cemetery.

James or Jim and his wife, Gretchen McNair, did not have any children. Jim was a barber, but he worked much of his life as a car salesman with the Andalusia Motor Company.

Florence Virginia “Jenny” and her husband, William Wallace Eiland, lived in Loango and farmed for their first 20 years. They then moved to Andalusia where they reared five daughters: Eula, m. J.J. “Jess” Messick; Bessie, m. John Aubrey Godwin; Ruby, m. Farron Wiggins; Shirley Irene, m. Sellers Tillman Brogden; Opal Louree, m. Charles Teasley Russell. Jenny and Wallace are buried beside Jenny’s brother in the Fairmount Cemetery.

Lena and her husband, Bluford Hutcheson, lived in Loango where they operated a small store which is still standing in its original location. Their only child, Cecil, married Hazel Cosby, and they reared three children. Cecil operated the family’s store after his father built a larger one. Lena, Bluford, and their son, Cecil, are buried in the Fairmount Cemetery.

Cody Eugene chose barbering as a career just as his older brother, Jim, had. Cody was never married since he died at the young age of 23 years in 1915 from pneumonia. He was buried along side so many of his relatives in the Fairmount Cemetery.

Today, the name Hartzog is rarely heard in Covington County, but the family has a rich heritage in the area. There is still a number of descendants residing here and others visit as often as possible.

Appreciation is expressed to Linda Brogden Palmer for sharing her family’s history for today’s column. She would be interested in hearing from anyone researching this family.

Anyone who might have corrections or additions to the above is requested to contact Curtis Thomasson at Route 9, Box 97, Andalusia, AL 36420 or e-mail: chthom@alaweb.com.

Cross family settled northeast of Red Level

By Curtis Thomasson
The Andalusia Star-News

William and Nancy had moved into Covington County by 1850 as they were enumerated in that census as residents of the Red Level District. He was a farmer at 30 years of age, and Nancy was a homemaker at 21 years of age. They already had three children: Lugumia, 3; Martha, 2; and William, 7 mos.

In 1852, William acquired 40 acres of land in the Patsaliga River Township from an 1850 military grant. In 1855, he added another 40 acres to this property. It is likely that this land remained in the Cross family for many generations to come.

In the 1860 Census of Covington County, William was listed as a farmer with real estate valued at $1,000 and personal property at $855. William was 40 years old and Nancy, 33. They then had the following children: Lugumia, 13; Martha Ann, 11; William Hardy Jr., 10; Richard, 8; James, 6; Handy, 4; and Ambros, 1. The older children were attending school at the time.

Family tradition states that during the War for Southern Independence, William joined the Masons in an attempt to keep from being conscripted. However, after the Confederate Congress passed an act requiring all able-bodied men between the ages of 45 and 60 to be mobilized into a reserve force, William enlisted in Co. I, 4th. Regiment Ala. (Senior) Reserves. He served as a 2nd. Corporal. The records described him as 47 years of age with blue eyes, dark hair, dark complexion, and standing five feet and eight inches tall.

William died soon after the war possibly of typhoid fever.

Responsibility of the farming fell to his son, Hardy, who was regarded as a good farmer at the young age of 14 years. Hardy and his mother worked diligently to keep food and other essentials for the family of nine children during the pressing reconstruction days. When the 1870 census was taken, the family still owned their land and personal possessions.

William and Nancy reared the following children: Lugumia, b. 1846; Martha Ann “Nannie,” b. 1849, m. ? Cooper; William Hardy Jr. “Hardie,” b. 1850, d. 1917, m. Mattie Sue Watson; Richard, b. 1853; James, b. 1855, m. Harriet Josey; Handy Britton, b. 1857, d. 1920, m. Winifred Parker; Ambrose, b. 1859, m. Emma Jones; Farrow, b. 1861, m. Elizabeth Josephine Turner; and Nancy, b. 1864.

William and Nancy are both buried in the primitive Curry-Cross Cemetery, located deep in the woods in the northern section of Covington County. Their graves were marked with large red stones, and it is believed that William was the first person to be buried in the cemetery. There are only one or two commercial headstones in the small cemetery.

Hardie and Mattie Sue reared the following children: James, b. 1872; John Joseph, b. 1873, d. 1939, m. Edna Hollis; Savannah, b. 1875, m. Will Stallings; Rufas, b. 1876, m. Carry Payne; William, b. 1877, m. Corene Hughes; Burie, b. ca 1880, m. Mamie Williamson; Charles, b. 1884, d. 1937, m. Olllie Stallings; and Nonnie, b. ca 1886, m. Phillip Smith.

James and his wife, Harriet Josey, reared the following five children: Herbert, m. Pauline Ingram; John, m. Becky Chesser; Ernest, m. Alma Hughes; Smithy, m. Terry Chesser; and Lloyd, m. Pearl Stuart.

Handy and his wife, Winifred Parker, moved to Hamilton County, Texas, and reared the following children: Lugumia Elephare, b. 1878, d. 1904, m. Charles Edward Leslie; William Ambrose “Uncle Bud,” b. 1881, d. 1959, m. Clyde Bennett; Britton Alexander, b. 1884, d. 1940, m. Sally May Moore; Loma, b. 1887, d. 1920, m. Joe Jackson; Annie, b. 1889, d. 1931, m. James Otis Casey; and Myrtle, b. 1891, d. 1923, m. Jess Jenkins.

Ambrose and his wife, Emma Jones, had the following children: Britton, m. Sallie Chesser; Gatsy, m. Vence Johnston; John, m. Beulah Josey; Daisy, m. Curt Lunsford; Stella, m. Will Chesser; James, m. Bessie Whidden; Trudie, m. Robert Josey; Nobie, m. Henry Josey; Lessie, m. (1) Jim Lunsford (2) Clint Foshee; and Vada, m. Willie Spivey.

Farrow and his wife, Elizabeth Turner, reared the following children: Molly, m. Bill Jones; Dennis, m. Clara Bosman; Terry; and Vesta.

This Cross family has been researched by several descendants among whom is Jane Leslie Newberry, great granddaughter of Handy Britton Cross. Most of the above data was taken from a composition completed by her in 1993.

There appear to have been other Cross relatives in Covington County. Hopefully, these will be researched and presented in some future column.

Anyone who might have corrections to the above or additional information on any of the Cross families is requested to contact Curtis Thomasson at Route 9, Box 97, Andalusia, AL 36420 or Email: chthom@alaweb.com

Parrish ancestors came during 1850s, settled in Rawls

By Curtis Thomasson
The Andalusia Star-News

The featured ancestor of today’s writing is Samuel Parrish who was born between 1765 and 1770 in the State of Virginia. He eventually migrated to Alabama and settled in Dale County where he died between 1850 and 1860.

Around the turn of the century, Samuel was married to a young lady named Elizabeth who was born circa 1785 in North Carolina. She lived to an advanced age and died in Dale County where she was buried beside her husband.

hile this family’s records are incomplete, it is believed that Samuel and Elizabeth had the following children and possibly others: Samuel; Richardson; Hamilton, b. 1802-10, d. 1904, m. (1) Belinda Handley (2) Molsey Edenton (Holley) Dozier; Nelly, b. 1813; Thomas b. 1818, m. Sarah ?; and Benjamin S., b. ca 1831, d. 1907, m. Elizabeth ?.

Although it is uncertain when the Parrish family arrived in Alabama, some of Samuel’s children acquired land in Covington County during 1855. Hamilton purchased three tracts of land: 38 acres and 77 acres in the Rawls community and 40 acres in the Dozier/Rose Hill community. Thomas bought 38 acres and 115 acres in the Rawls community. During 1856, Benjamin L. (relationship undetermined) acquired 160 acres in the same community.

At least three Parish households were enumerated in the 1860 Census of Covington County: Thomas, Nelly, and Hamilton. Thomas was 42 years of age and his wife, Sarah, 40 years. They had the following children with them: John W., 19; Simpson, 14; Ephraim, 12; William, 10; Hiram, 8; Hulda, 6; and George W., 3. Thomas and Sarah were born in South Carolina and all the children were born in Alabama. Nelly Parish, born in South Carolina, was 47 years of age, and she had Elizabeth, 14 years of age and born in Alabama, with her.

Hamilton Parish was 49 years of age, and his wife, Belinda, was 39 years old. He was a farmer born in South Carolina, and she was born in Alabama. They had the following children with them: Michael, 17; Irvin Handley, 15; Jesse, 13; John E., 9; Mary J., 9; Samuel, 6; Jacob T., 3; and Hulda Ann, 7 mo.

At least three of the Parrish men served in the Confederate Army: H. (Hamilton?) was 53 years old in 1864 when he enlisted as a private in Co. C, Cov. Co. Reserves. Thomas was 47 years old in 1864 when he enlisted in Co. I, 4th. Ala. Reg’t Senior Reserves. He was described as having hazel eyes, dark hair, florid complexion, and standing five feet and 10 inches tall. E. Parish was 16 years old in 1864 when he enlisted as a private in the Company of Cov. Co. Militia (Second Class).

There were three Parish men listed as registered voters in the county in 1867: T. Parish and J. Parish in Beat Five, and J.J. Parish on the supplemental list. During the same year, Hamilton Parish represented the Goodhope Primitive Baptist Church at the Conecuh River Association Meeting.

There were additional Parish households in the 1870 census. Thomas and Hamilton are still there, but Hamilton had married again after losing his first wife. He and Molsey had a son in 1866 whom they named John L. Some of his children by his first wife were no longer in the home and the names of the others do not match exactly with those listed in 1860.

Simkp Parish and W.T. Parrish, both young men with wives, are probably the sons of Thomas. It is uncertain who the Ed Parrish at 53 years of age is. He could possibly be a brother to Thomas and Hamilton. Ed and his wife, Mary who was 46 years old, had the following children: James, 18; Jasper, 16; Raminda, 14; Sam, 12; Fletcher, 10; Martha, 8; and Jackson, 4. The last five children were listed as having been born in Florida.

There were also three Parish men residing in a separate household: E.C., 29; M.T., 18, and William Josie, 18. Their relationship to the others is unknown.

The above Benjamin S. came to Covington County circa 1900. He and his wife, Elizabeth, had the following four children: James F., b. ca 1855, d. 1921, m. Martha Ellafair Thompkins; Martha A.E., b. ca 1858, m. 1880 William B. Watlins; E.N. (female), b. ca 1863; and Benjamin W. b. 1866, m. Frances “Fannie” A.

In his later years James F. was known as a prospector. It is believed that he might have been murdered in Florida. He and his wife “Ella,” had the following four children: Millard Fillmore, b. 1888, m. Minnie White; James Marshall, b. 1890, m. Grace Easley; Laura, b. 1892, m. G.N. Kendall; and Burie Guard Sr., b. 1896, m. Aggie White.

Millard and Minnie reared their family near Andalusia. They reared the following children: J.W., b. ca 1920, m. (1) Frances ? (2) Louise Norden (3) Clodine Fowler (4) Martha (Pruitt) Raley; Bertha, b. ca 1921, m. Andy Moore; Roy Edward, b. ca 1923, m. Lou Roebuck; Troy, b. 1924, d. 1992, m. (1) ? (2) Mildred (Meadows) Locklier; Carmen Lee, b. 1926, m. Sheila Pamelia Bass; Mildred Jean, b. 1931, m. George Ammons; and Susie, b. ca 1937, m. Gene Lawson.

Burie’s wife, Aggie, was a sister to his brother, Milliard’s, wife. They reared the following children: Mary Rae, b. 1924, m. (1) Bennett Bass (2) Bill Portewood; Burie Guard Jr., b. 1926, m. Wanda Jane Cross; William Cecil, b. 1928, m. Marzelle Rabren; Donnie Hugh, b. 1929, d. 1995, m. (1) Dot ? (2) Wanda ? (3) Helen ?; and James Reginald “Jim Bob,” b. 1932, m. Mildred Langford.

From the above families there are numerous descendants living in this county and scattered across the country. The family is very interested in compiling additional history, so they would appreciate hearing from anyone who might have something to share. Some who have done research on the family are Rebecca Burns, Ronald Head, Mary Mckovy, and Cecil and Marzelle Parrish.

Anyone who might have corrections to the above or additional information is requested to contact Curtis Thomasson at Route 9, Box 97, Andalusia, AL 36420 or Email: chthom@alaweb.com

Historical Meeting:

The Covington Rifles Camp of the Sons of Confederate Veterans will meet at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 1 at the Andalusia Public Library.

Reunion:

Descendants of Ben David Howell and Harriet E. Cobb will hold their first family reunion on Saturday, Oct. 27 at Robert Fowler Park in Geneva, Alabama. Bring a covered dish lunch.

Knowles ancestor was prosperous timber miller

By Curtis Thomasson
The Andalusia Star-News

William was born in 1838 at Clay Hill in Pike County. His parents were Richard and Martha Jane (Oliver) Knowles, natives of Georgia and South Carolina respectively. His parents, having come to Alabama with their parents at early dates, were married circa 1835 in Pike County.

Richard lived near his father until around 1842 at which time he moved his young family to Coffee County where he and Martha reared a large family of as many as 10 children: William Thomas, b. 1838, m. (1) Matilda A.J. Daniel (2) Polly E. Cotter; Josephine, b. 1844; George Washington, b. 1847, m. Drucilla J. Dupree; Marion O., b. 1850, d. young; Helen L.C., b. 1852; Martha A., b. 1854; and Mary A., b. 1858. Before the war, Richard had become a prosperous farmer, but he lost his slaves after the war. He recovered and regained much of his wealth before his death in 1890.

William T., the oldest child, grew up on the farm and became a valuable worker for his father. In 1860, at the age of 22, he married Matilda A.J. Daniel, a young lady at 14 years of age. She was the youngest known daughter of Allen and Rachael Daniel, both natives of Georgia. William and Matilda had two children: Richard Allen, b. 1861, d. 1930, m. Nancy Jane Elizabeth Brooks; and Willie Elizabeth, b. 1862, m. Jasper Thompson.

On April 7, 1862, William, along with his uncle and three first cousins, enlisted in Company B of the 3rd. Battalion of Hilliard’s Legions in which he served throughout the war. Though he participated in many fierce skirmishes and battles, he was never wounded. He was engaged at Chattanooga, Tenn., Knoxville, Tenn., Cumberland Gap, the Kentucky Campaign, Missionary Ridge, and Virginia in the Wilderness and the siege of Petersburg, Vir. He was captured at Hatcher’s Run 13 days before Lee’s surrender and imprisoned at Point Lookout. When he was discharged from Mobile, he returned to his home in Coffee County where he found his farm in neglect and his slaves gone.

It is stated in the Memorial Record of Alabama that William had a distinctive peculiarity. He never shaved and he never cut his hair during the war. It had grown to a length extending below his waist.

It is uncertain as to what happened to William’s wife, Matilda, after the war. Some records suggest she died, and others indicate she left him and the children and was living with her older brother in Georgia by 1870.

After attempting to recover his farm for a year, William decided to try the timber milling business. He worked for a few years in Butler, Conecuh, and Wilcox counties before coming to Covington County. Upon arriving, he chose to settle in the Fairfield community of the Pea Ridge area. He constructed a saw mill and grist mill on the Copeland Creek and continued to prosper in the timber milling business. By 1890, he had acquired around 6,000 acres of timberland and become quite successful.

Although he never sought public office, William served 20 years continuously as a Justice of the Peace until 1890. His financial success and industrious nature led to his involvement in his community. Among his associations was his membership in the Missionary Baptist Church.

During the early 1870s, William was married a second time to Polly E. Cotter, daughter of Bradford C. and Elizabeth Cotter, natives of Georgia. William and Polly had six children: two who died young; William, b. 1875; Florence, b. 1877; Horace, b. 1880; and Clara, b. 1882.

During the early 1900s, William moved his family to the River Falls community. Upon his death he was buried in the River Falls Cemetery.

His oldest son, Richard A., and his wife Jane, daughter of Rev. William D. and Sarah Jane (Scott) Brooks, remained in the Fairfield Community. They reared the following children: Theodicia, b. 1880, d. young; Robert Allen, b. 1884, d. 1967, m. Molly Ward; James S., b. 1886, d. 1899; Martis Tal, b. 1888, d. 1971, m. Vincy Lunsford; Emily Laduscia, b. 1890, d. 1967, m. Claude A. Bush; Jesse Neal, b. 1892, d. 1968, m. Estelle Heath; Hattie Mae, b. 1894, d. 1972, m. William E. Ward; and Samuel Zedak, b. 1898, m. Lora Johnson.

William T.’s younger brother, George Washington Knowles, worked in the timber business with him. He married and began a family during the 1870s. For some unknown reason he left his young family in 1880 and probably moved out of state. There were differing opinions as to why he left and were he went.

George’s wife, Drucilla J., daughter of Jacob and Amanda Dupree, was left to rear their three young children. She remained in Pea Ridge and cared for her family. The children included the following: William Nathaniel, b. 1871, d. 1902, m. Callie Susan Thomasson; Nancy, b. 1875, m. ? Cassidy; and Green Berry, b. 1880, d. 1931, m. Eva Lois Compton.

William Nathaniel “Billy” was only 31 years of age when he died from pneumonia during the winter of 1902. He had developed a bad cold from the damp weather while rafting timber down the Conecuh River. When he returned home and became sicker, he sent for his wife’s brother, George Thomasson. He told him that he knew he was dying and requested that George and their father look after Callie and their four young children. Callie’s parents were Cornelius Starr and Susannah (Henley) Thomasson of the Fairfield Community. On the day Billy was buried at Hopewell Cemetery, the Thomassons moved Callie and her children into their home.

Billy and Callie had the following four children: Bertie Lee, b. 1896, d. 1973, m. Effie May Moody; Everett Clawson, b. 1898, d. 1966, m. Mary Ellen Ralls; Eurie Durie, b. 1899, d. 1992, m. Ruby Cecil Ward; and Nora Inez, b. 1902, d. 1994, m. William Amos Ward.

Bertie and his wife, Effie, only had one child, Bertie Mae, who married Jimmy Smith. Everett owned and operated a store in Brooklyn. He and his wife did not have any children.

Eurie and his wife, Ruby, had the following children: John Dewey, b. 1935, d. 1991, m. (1)Valrie Schindler (2) Somjit Supprasert; Gordon Clawson, b. 1937, m. Martha Kendall; William Everett, b. 1939, m. Virginia Ann Armstrong; Glendon Dawson, b. 1941, m. Madalyn Knight, James Stewart, b. 1943, m. Rebecca Lynn Cooper; David, b. 1944, m. Mittie (Stokes) Castleberry; Betty Gray, b. 1948, m. Ronald Earl Parker; and Alma Susian, b. 1952, single.

Inez and her husband, Amos Ward, had three children: Vera Mae, b. 1923, m. Claude Stokes; William Nathaniel “Buster,” b. 1926, m. June Marie Wright; and Doris Delane, b. 1939, m Ellison Chavers.

Primary sources for this family’s genealogy were: Memorial Record of Alabama, Wyley D. Ward’s “The Folks From Pea Ridge in Covington and Conecuh Counties,” and “Thomasson Traces Narrative of the Thomasson Family 1677-1995 Volume II.” There is much more Knowles family history in Wyley Ward’s book and the Thomasson book.

Anyone who might have corrections or additions to the above is requested to contact Curtis Thomasson at Route 9, Box 97, Andalusia, AL 36420 or Email: chthom@alaweb.com

Historical Meetings:

The Covington Historical Society will meet at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 25, at the Three Notch Museum.

Reunions:

Descendants of Franklin Posey Kirkland and Callie Viola Prescott will have their annual reunion on Saturday, Oct. 20, at the New Hope Lodge in New Hope, Fla. Bring family history and a covered dish lunch.

Peek descendants spread throughout County

By Curtis Thomasson
The Andalusia Star-News

This is a continuation of the next generations of the Peek family reviewed in last week’s column. Many of the descendants of Robert Comer and Sarah Stripling Peek settled and reared their families in Covington County. Their grandchildren, children of their own seven children to reach adulthood, will be outlined in the order of the children’s births.

The oldest son, James M., and his wife, Lizzie, reared the following eight children: Clifford Elijah, b. 1897, d. 1974, m. Nell L. Phelps; Emery Marion, b. ca 1899, m. Willie Lee Sasser; Fannie Brown, b. 1901, d. 1990, m. Perry V. Sorrells; Myrtle Carlos, b. ca 1904, m. William young; Alma Lee "Dollie," b. ca 1908, m. Herman Mullens; Vera Estelle, b. 1911, d. 1992, m. Dennis Mitchell; Bertie Alene, b. ca 1914, m. Silas Mitchell; and Glennie Pearl, b. 1917, d. 1991, m. Peter Smith.

John W. and his wife, Kizzie Rebecca, reared the following nine children: Sarah Rebecca, b. 1900, d. 1992, m. William L. "Labig" Adams; Fannie Lee, b. 1902, m. Futch Pruitt; Ida B., b. 1904, d. 1979, m. Jesse E. "Sam" Ray; Mollie, b. 1905, m. (1) Willie C. Stuckey (2) ? Yarsinske; William Comer, b. 1908, d. 1992, m. Bertha Mae "Bert" Scott; Beulah, b. 1910, d. 1984, m. Charles Adam Rogers; Tulah, b. 1910, d. 1984, m. William Avery Driver; Eunice, b. 1914, m. Ralph Everette Bryant; and Ruby, b. 1917, d. 1989, m. Wilbur Norman Bryant.

Frank and his wife, Jane, reared the following six children: Joseph Oliver, b. 1902, d. 1962, m. Ruby Bell Eiland; Robert W. "Bob," b. 1904, d. 1992, m. Grace Brooks; Vanalder Novel "Nall," b. 1907, d. 1980, m. Verla Mae Hawkins; James A. "Jim," b. 1910, d. 1996, m. Mearle Baggett; Richard Benton "Ben," b. 1912, m. Eloise Kelley; and Mamie Orine, b. 1913, d. 1982, m. Edward Horace Everage.

Fernondo and his wife, Estelle, reared the following seven children: Lillie Bell, b. 1901, d. 1979; Thomas Hubert, b. 1903, d. 1979, m. Merle Newton; Clyde, b. 1906, d. 1980, m. Opal Eron Sanders; Claude Brown, b. 1909, m. Wilma "Billie" Paulk; Infant, b. 1914., d. 1916; Charles Whitsette, b. 1915, m. (1) Elizabeth Graham Carney (2) Lucille ?; and Verbie Ray, b. 1917.

Bura Gard and his wife, Margaret, reared the following 11 children: Bera Brown, b. 1907, d. 1970, m. Abbie Lou Blackmon; Glen, b. 1908, d. 1977, m. Beulah Bell Blackmon; Early Fale, b. 1912, d. 1960, m. Jewel McCall; Infant, b. & d., 1914; Nina Pearl, b. 1915, d. 1917; Mary Evelyn, b. 1918, d. 1994, m. Charles Bell; Charles Edward, b. 1919, d. 1923; Nellie Kate, b. 1921, m. Marlin Sorrells; James Oliver, b. 1923, d. 1947, m. Jewel Taylor; Sarah Odessa, b. 1925, d. 1991, m. James Moulton; and Robert Gaston, b. 1927, m. Maryeve Barrington.

Henry Burnett and his wife, Alice, had the following four children: Leonard, b. 1907, d. 1980, m. Kate Everage; Maudey, b. ca 1909, m. Gillis Roberts; Oma, b. ca 1911, d. 1993, m. Myrus Cornett; and Cecil, b. ca 1913, d. 1982, m. Estelle Godwin.

Alfred and his wife, Fannie Lou, had the following two children: Thelma Lou, b. & d., 1920; and Brady Aubrey, b. 1924, d. 1950, m. Joy Murel Sanders.

The next generation begins with the grandchildren of James M. His son, Emery M., had a daughter, Marjorie, who married a Nall. His daughter, Fannie Sorrells had two children: Lamerle, b. 1924, m. Alain D. Bint; and Durward, b. 1928, d. 1943. Daughter Myrtle Young had two children: Mary Frances, b. 1927, m. Robert T. Hughes, Jr. Daughter Glennie Smith had three children: Martha Ruth, b. 1936, m. Stephen B. Scott; William Edwin, b. 1941, m. Linda Rollo; and Peter Jr., b.& d. 1946.

The grandchildren of John W. begin with the children of Sarah Adams: Bucie; John Morris, b. 1928, m. Evelyn Hunter; Travis; and Maureen. Daughter Ida Ray had two children: James E. Jr.; and Jacqueline, m. Lomax Reynolds. Daughter Mollie Stuckey had three children: Sybel, b. 1930, m. ? LeVan; Joyce, b. 1931, m. ? Scales; and Anita, b. 1939, m. ? Christian.

Son William Comer had three children: Merna Jo, m. Kenneth Creel; Jimmy, m. Vesta Merle; and Angela, m. Harry Bailey.

Daughter Beulah Rogers had six children: Mary Frances, b. 1930, m. Charles Billy Stokes; James Nathan, b. 1932, m. Shirley Elliott; Teressa, b. 1934, m. Walter Floyd Sellers; Samuel, b. 1937, m. Margie Sasser; Charles Adam Jr., b. 1941, m. Annette Maddox; and Virginia, b. 1947, m. James H. Lowman.

Daughter Tulah Driver had one daughter: Jean Claire.

Daughter Eunice Bryant had five children: Barbara, b. 1933, m. Maurice Powell; Ralph Everett, b. 1935, m. Gyndel Faye McGlum; Patricia, b. 1936, m. Bernard Stewart; Clayton Peek, m. Barbara Barton; and Stephen Elwood, m. Jeanine Pouncey.

Daughter Ruby Bryant had three children: Murray Nathan, b. 1937, m. Charlotte Stokes; George Reubin, b. 1940, m. Mary Jo Godwin; and Madge, b. 942, m. Jimmy Cobb.

The grandchildren of Frank begin with the children of his son, Joe Oliver. Joe had five children: Henry Rogers, b. 1924, m. Laverne Stewart; Joseph Romeo, b. 1926, m. Willie Mae Haynes; Audrey Mae, b. 1928, m. Neal Hurst; Katherine Christine, b. 1933, m. Herman Coker; and Mary Evelyn, b. 1937, m. Louisa Ordini.

Son James had two daughters: Patricia A., b. 1946, m. Lamar Thomas; and Mary L., b. 1952, m. Jon H. Poe.

Son Richard Benton had three children: Cindy, Charlie and Wade.

Daughter Mamie Orine Everage had three children: Annie Laura, b. 1935, m. Robert McFaddin; James Andrew, b. 1939, m. (1) Joyce Aline Potter (2) Sandra Carol Heth; and Lester Darwin, b. 1941, m. Peggy Raye Gee.

The grandchildren of Fernondo "Non" begin with the children of his son, Clyde Merritt: Bobby Merritt, b. 1933, m. Jeanette Ellis; and Opal Diane, b. 1953, m. Daniel Allen Lockwood.

Son Claude Brown had three children: Charles Daniel, b. 1941, m. Tonya Courtney; Lena Joyce, b. 1943, m. David Franklin Green; and Claude Thomas, b. 1952, m. Nancy Edna Weekly.

Son Charles Whitsette had two children: Judith Lynn, b. 1942, m. Bruce Arthur Therian; and Elizabeth Elaine, b. 1947, m. John Stanley Bereznak.

The grandchildren of Bura Gard begin with the daughter of his son, Bera Brown: Annette, b. 1939, m. Wayne Murray Kennedy. His son, Glen, had an adopted son named Donald.

Son Early Fale had the following children: David Cullen, b. 1939, m. Betty Lou Stinson; Billy Morris, b. 1942, m. Mary Qualls; Shirley Ann, b. 1945, m. Hubert Fred Ramer; Linda Faye, b. 1947, m. Joseph Martin Moulton; and Herman Clyne, b. 1951, m. Kimberly Katrina Griffin.

Daughter Mary Evelyn Bell had four children: Frank E., b. 1939, m. Julia Walker; Joe H., b. 1942, m. Elaine Clark; Julian Boyd, b. 1950, m. Lisa Ann Elliott; and Charles Mark, b. 1955, m. Wanda Winebriner.

Daughter Nellie Kate Sorrells had two daughters: Gwendel Louise, b. 1939, m. (1) Mario Amper (2) Robert Hugh Alder; and Patsy Lynn, b. 1945, m. James Watson Lee.

Son James Oliver had an infant baby, b. & d. 1943.

Daughter Sarah Odessa Moulton had three children: Lynett, b. 1945, m. Richard King; James Timothy, m. Ralene ?; and Kimberly, m. Ronald Evenson.

Son Robert Gaston had five children: Robert Daniel, b. 1947, m. Patsy Fay Jordan; Warren, b. 1951, m. Shelia Ann Grantham; Gary Lynn, b. 1956, m. Edith Shroads; Ellen, b. 1961, m. John Joyner; and John M., b. 1965, m. Barbara E. Brady.

The grandchildren of Henry Burnett begin with the children of his son, Leonard: James Kenneth, m. Opal Wallace; and Gary Lamar, m. Debbie Gaines.

Daughter Oma Cornett had two sons: George Henry, b. 1929; and Joe Mack, b. 1932.

Son Cecil had four children: Helen, m. Emmett Grissett; Faris, m. Maxine Henderson; Mary Nell, m. ? Williamson; and Robert, m. Shirley Rayborn.

There was only one grandchild for Alfred. His son, Brady Aubrey, had a daughter, Laura Elaine, b. 1952, m. James Henry Sims.

Anyone who might have a correction to the above or additional data is requested to contact Curtis Thomasson at Route 9, Box 97, Andalusia, AL 36420 or Email: chthom@alaweb.com

Descendants of Morris Watson Kervin will meet on Sunday, Oct. 14, at the Kervin Cemetery/Welcome Church near Red Level. Covered dish dinner will be served at 1 p.m.

Descendants of Lewis and Rachel (Amerson) Willcutt will have a reunion beginnning at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 27, at Tannehill State Park near Bessemer. All descendants are asked to bring lawn chairs, food for a shared meal and items to be used for door prizes.

Peek/Peak ancestors emigrated from Virginia

By Curtis Thomasson
The Andalusia Star-News

One of the progenitors was Robert Peek, born circa 1715, who became the ancestor of the descendants eventually migrating to south Alabama. In 1735, he was residing in Goochland County, Vir. He was married to Elizabeth Anne Comer, the daughter of John and Elizabeth or Anne Comer Sr., circa 1738. They reared their children and lived out their lives in Virginia. In 1883, Robert was residing in Prince Edward County, but Elizabeth had died circa 1765.

They reared the following eight children: John Comer Sr., b. 1744, d. 1816, m. Tabitha ?; Leonard, b. ca 1745, d. 1783, m. Lucy West; Samuel, b. 1747, d. 1787-93; Charles, b. ca 1748, m. (1) Nellie Brooks (2) Polly Chandler; Jane C., b. ca 1750, m. Thomas Lewis; Susannah, b. ca 1751, d. 1801, m. John Baldwin; Henry, b. ca 1752, d. 1824, m. Judith Lockett; and Agnes, b. ca 1764, d. 1833, m. Charles Pennick/Rennick.

The oldest son, John Comer, and his wife, Tabitha, reared the following children: Henry; Robert L. Sr., b. 1767, m. Nancy Ansley; Sally, b. 1768, m. Barnard Sykes; Agatha, b. 1769, m. Lee Griggs; William Burford, b. 1770, m. Elizabeth Griggs; Lucy, b. 1772, m. Hubbard Sykes; John Comer Jr., b. 1774, d. 1812-14, m. Mary “Polly” Champion; Nancy, b. 1775; Chamley, b. 1776; Elizabeth, b. 1779; and Leonas, b. 1783.

John’s son, William Burford, was born and grew up in Virginia, lived in North Carolina, later moved to Georgia, and eventually emigrated to Alabama. He married Elizabeth Griggs in 1796 in Granville County, N.C. The only two of their children known at this time are Charity, b. 1814, listed insane in the 1850 census, and Leonard “Lem” B., b. 1815.

In 1835, Leonard was married to Martha Ann Boothe in Lowndes County. He eventually moved his family to the Pine Level community. His acquisition of land is recorded in the first plat book of Montgomery. He served in Co. H, 6th. Ala. Inf. Regt of the Confederate Army when he was 46 years of age. His son, Robert Comer, served as a private in the same unit at age 19. Robert was captured at Gettysburg, Vir., in July, 1863, and was paroled at Fort Delaware on June 15, 1865.

Leonard and Martha reared the following children: James M. “Jim,” b. 1838, d. 1890, m. Mary Malissa Pettis; Sarah “Sallie,” b. 1840, m. J.S.A. Inabinett; Robert Comer “Bob,” b. 1842, m. (1) Sarah “Sallie” Stripling (2) Harmya Amanda Gatson Capps; Betty Jane “Betsy,” b. 1844, m. William Houston; and Rebecca, b. 1847.

The son, Robert Comer, was married first to Sarah Stripling, daughter of Robert and Berthenia “Mitt” (Sanders) Stripling of Brantley. In the 1880 census, the family is residing in the Leon community of Crenshaw County. Robert is 37 years of age and is listed as a farmer. Sarah is listed at 27 years age, and they had their first five children living in their home in Beat Eight. It appears that this family went to Texas between 1886 and 1888 because the youngest son was born there. Within the next few years, Sallie died, probably in Texas. By 1896, Robert was back in Crenshaw County, Alabama, and married to a second wife, Harmya Amanda Gatson Capps.

Robert and Sallie had the following children: Leonard, b. 1859, d. 1861; James M. “Jim,” b. 1872, m. Elizabeth “Lizzie” Kelley; John W., b. 1874, d. 1962, m. Kizziah Rebecca Handley; Frank, b. 1877, d. 1969, m. Annie Jane Kelley; Fernondo “Non,” b. 1879, d. 1968, m. (1) Essie Estelle Turner (2) M. Burtie Bronson (3) Annie Jeffcoat (4) Blanch Sims; Bura Gard, b. 1884, d. 1967, m. Margaret Eula Sport; Henry Burnett, b. 1886, d. 1973, m. Alice Mackie Sanders; and Alfred, b. 1887, d. 1969, m. Fannie Lou Harris.

While most of the above Peek relatives lived in Crenshaw and Pike Counties, there were many of the next generation who moved into Covington County to make their homes. Considerable research has been done on this family, and much genealogical data is available on the next generations, many of whom will be recognized in this area. These will be presented in next week’s column to further outline this family.

Appreciation is particularly expressed to Maryeve (Barrington) Peek, wife of Robert Gaston Peek, for all of her work on this genealogy and sharing her records for this writing. The family has just had their annual reunion in Andalusia, and is hoping to have their history compiled further and printed for everyone to have a copy.

Anyone who might have corrections to the above or additional information on the Peek family is requested to contact Curtis Thomasson at Route 9, Box 97, Andalusia, AL 36420 or Email: chthom@alaweb

Grimes family reunion is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 6, from 10 a.m. until at New Ebenezer Baptist Church. All descendants of Eugene and Lena Grimes are urged to attend and bring covered dishes and lawn chairs. Paper goods and ice will be provided.

Cooper family reunion will be held on Sunday, Oct. 7, beginning at 9 a.m. at the REA Lodge in Gantt. Everyone is invited to attend and bring a covered dish dinner.

Historical Meeting:

On Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 20 and 21, the Newton Historical Commission and Company E, 15th. Alabama Infantry will be conducting its first annual Newton Courthouse Raid Reenactment. This will be the first reenactment of the Union Cavalry’s raid on Newton during the War Between the States. Contact Dallas Hudson at 493-9098 for more information.

Morgans marry into prominent families

By Curtis Thomasson
The Andalusia Star-News

Today's column is a continuation of the James Oliver Morgan family presented last week. James Oliver was a Methodist minister in Southeast Crenshaw County. At his death, he was buried in the Oak Grove Cemetery. A number of his grandchildren married into prominent families of Covington County and made their homes in this area.

James Henry Morgan, son of Green Berry Morgan was probably the oldest grandchild of James Oliver. He was born in 1849 in Georgia and eventually settled in the Lighter Knott Creek community of Crenshaw County, Alabama. Before leaving Georgia, he married Revina Affire Lane in 1864 in Box Springs. Upon arriving in Southeast Crenshaw County during the 1870s, they established a home and reared their 16 children. They lived there until their deaths in 1928 and 1910 when they were buried in the Weed Cemetery near the Burnout community.

James Henry and Revina had the following children: Lela Belle, b. 1870, d. 1963, m. (1) Frank Payne (2) W.F. Simmons; Mary Lula, b. 1872, d. 1955, m. W. Judson Walker; Minnie Redella, b. 1874, d. 1957, m. David Franklin Colquett; Henry Barnabas "Man," b. 1876, d. 1947, m. Clara Boland; Green Berry "Gibe," b. 1878, d. 1951, m. Fannie Lou Hudson; John Franklin, b. & d. 1880; Mattie Ophelia, b. 1881, d. 1976, m. Homer T. Wilson; Alice Affire, b. 1883, d. 1976, m. Lonnie M. Alsabrook; James "Sim" Monroe, b. 1885, d. 1963, m. Willie Bradley; Thomas Jefferson, b. 1887, d. 1941, m. Ola Marler; William "Bill" Boyington, b. 1888, d. 1966, m. Salomie Payne; Luther Roe, b. & d. 1890; Georgia Lane, b. 1892, d. 1980, m. William Manning Moore; Sam, b. 1894, d. 1967, m. Bessie Howard; Isaac Dorcas, b. 1897, d. 1976, m. Margie Lee Talley; and Jessie Mell, m. H.S. Pittman.

The daughter, Georgia Lane and her husband, W.M. Moore were the parents of Manning Lamar, b. 1924, d. 1987, m. Jeanette Floyd; and Morgan Jackson Moore, b. 1934, m. Betty Jean Wise. Lamar was an auto dealer, and Morgan has recently retired as a general physician in Andalusia.

James Oliver's son, Elijah Oliver, reared a large family. Among his children was Judge McDuffie who was married twice and had children by both wives. He and Nancy Walker had the following children: Louis May, b. 1880, m. Sarah Elizabeth Wyatt; Oscar Lee, b. 1882, d. 1962, m. Jessie Dillar Tisdale; Lillie Devada, b. 1884, d. 1964, m. John William Everage, Jr.; James Frank, b. 1886, d. 1936, m. Willie Belle Morgan (his cousin); and Pinkney Costillard, Sr., b. 1888, d. 1960, m. Florence Lillis Richards.

Judge McDuffie and his second wife, Laura Everage, reared the following children: Bibb Gardner Sr., b. 1891, d. 1956, m. Mary Vera Wright; J.B., b. 1893, d. 1957, m. Nettie Irene Jones; Walter Mack, b. 1894, d. 1955; Henry Livagah, b. 1896; Carlee, b. 1897, m. Byrd Sasser; Willie Coston, b. 1898, m. Agnes Sasser; Laura Viola, b. 1900, m. Ernest Jay; and John Elijah, b. 1904, d. 1914.

The daughter, Lillie Devada, and her husband, John William Everage, Jr. reared the following children: Judge Cleveland, b. 1905, d. 1952, m. Harlie Vera Hutcheson; Annie Elizabeth, b. 1907, m. Robert Benjamin Welch, Jr.; John William III, b. 1909, d. 1928; Myrtle Ruth, b. 1911, m. Theo Norel Welch; George Emerald, b. 1913, d. 1949, m. Nellie Mae Hawkins; Helen Erie, b. 1916, d. 2000, m. (1) Comer Broughton Shehan (2) Jessie Osie Thomas; Henry Livingston, b. 1919, d. 1981, m. (1) Ella Wiggins (2) Nell Adams; Doris b. 1922, d. 1971, m. Robert Earl Vickery; Norman Mack, b. 1924, d. 1978, m. Ruby Selma Grantham; and Carolyn Jean, b. 1928, m. Ray Powell. Most of these families lived in the Andalusia area.

Lillie's son, Judge Cleveland, and his wife, Harlie Vera Hutcheson, reared the following children in Andalusia: Lillie Rebecca, b. 1925, d. 1993; Joan, b. 1926; Nan, b. 1935, m. Frank Allen Gafford; Mike, b. 1938, d. 1951; and Rex, b. 1942.

Elijah Oliver's daughter, Georgia Catherine, and her husband, William Robert Tisdale, reared their family in Andalusia. W.R. operated a general merchandise store on South Court Square. Their children included the following: Autie Victoria, b. 1889, d. 1977, m. Jerome Ward; Minnie Lee, b. 1891, d. 1893; Lola, b. & d. 1894; Georgia Mae, b. 1895, d. 1896; Luna Ethel, b. 1897, d. 1900; Infant, b. & d. 1900; James Robert, b. & d. 1902; Broughton, b. 1903, d. 2001, m. Lois Teate; Solomon, b. 1907, m. Nannie Cary; Sophia Elvira, b. 1909, d. 2000, single; and Lizza Vera, b. 1912, m. Swenson Edwin Anderson.

Elijah Oliver's son, Nathan Stanton, and his wife, Dora Carrie, had several children. Among these was a daughter, Evelyn, b. 1901, d. 1991, m. Clyde Lee Purvis in Jay, Florida. Among the children of Evelyn and Clyde was a daughter, Gladys Vivian, b. 1928, m. Ronald Elmore Davis, a well-known Baptist minister in this area.

There has been considerable research done on the Morgan family, and a number of descendants are continuing the work. Anyone who has interest in learning more about this genealogy may contact members of the family.

Most of the above data was secured from Dan Shehan and Rex Everage, and additional information was contributed by Morgan descendants, Dr. Morgan J. Moore and Gladys (Purvis) Davis.

Anyone who might have corrections or additional information is requested to contact Curtis Thomasson at Route 9, Box 97, Andalusia, AL 36420 or Email: chthom@alaweb.com

HISTORICAL MEETINGS:

The Covington Historical Society will meet at 11 a.m. on Saturday at Lake Jackson Park in Florala. There will be a tour of the museum and Finks Mill.

The Covington Rifles Camp of the Sons of Confederate Veterans will meet at 7 p.m. on Thursday, October 4, at the Andalusia Public Library.

REUNIONS:

Fate Wallace reunion will be held at 9 a.m., Saturday, September 29, at the "old home place" on Hwy. 25, Brantley. Bring covered dishes and chairs.

Families of Jim, John, Frank, Noah, Bura, Burnett, and Alfred Peek will hold a reunion on Sunday, September 30, at the Shaw Recreation Center on Sutton Road. Bring covered dish dinner, photos, and family records.

Morgan ancestors settled in northeast Covington and Crenshaw Counties

By Curtis Thomasson
The Andalusia Star-News

The progenitor of most Morgan descendants of Covington County was James Oliver Morgan, born in 1794 in Edgefield County, S.C. In 1816, he was married in Augusta, Ga., to Mary Dathney, who was born in 1794 in North Carolina.

Soon after their marriage, the young couple made their home in Greene County, Ga., where their first two children were born. They moved next to Henry County, where the remainder of their children were born. A few years later, the family moved further west to Columbus in Muscogee County, Georgia.

While living in Columbus, the children began to choose mates and form their own families. By the 1850 U.S. Census of Muscogee County, the family had only the youngest three children still residing at home.

James Oliver and Mary reared the following children: Green Berry, b. 1818, d. 1906, m. Darkis Tabitha Taylor; William Boynton, b. 1819, d. 1908, m. (1) Nancy Coffee (2) Nancy Wallace; James Jackson, b. 1822, d. 1898, m. (1) Susan Cartledge (2) Rebecca Eleanor Coffee; Lucinda A., b. 1825, d. 1855, m. Calvin Bland; Cynthia, b. ca 1826; Christopher Columbus, b. 1828, d. before 1900, m. Adaline Culpepper; Elijah Oliver, b. 1829, d. 1911, m. Sophia Ann Lanier; Thomas S., b. ca 1833, d. 1865, m. Nancy Askew and Julia A., b. ca 1836.

During the 1850s, some members of the family became attracted to south Alabama. It was probably, as it was for so many other families, the lure of cheap land featuring virgin forests and rich soil.

The first of the family to make the move was James Oliver’s son, Christopher Columbus, and his wife, Adaline Culpepper. They were settled in Butler County by 1860 when their son, William, was born in Greenville. Their other children were born in the same general area.

The rest of the family remained in Georgia during the trying war years. In 1851, Elijah Oliver had married Sophia Ann, the daughter of Lewis and Mary Lanier. They lived in Chattahoochee County, near his parents, and began their family. They reared the following children: Roxie Ann Victoria, b. 1852, d. 1947, m. Thomas Calvin Capels; Judge McDuffie, b. 1854, d. 1908, m. (1) Nancy Jeanette Ruth Walker (2) Laura Viola Everage; Jessie Oliver L., b. 1858, d. 1937, m. (1) Mattie Eunice Payne (2) Lula Kilcrease; Elijah Harper, b. 1861, d. 1941, m. Laura McDonald; Mary E., b. 1863, d. 1902, m. John Pleasant Tisdale; Sara Ellen, b. 1866, d. 1934, m. Daniel M. Short; William Thomas, b. 1868, d. 1893, m. Laura Ann Louise Wyatt; Sophia Ann P., b. 1870, d. 1876; Georgia Catherine, b. 1872, d. 1966, m. William Robert Tisdale; Nathan Stanton, b. 1875, d. 1969, m. Dora Carrie Barrington; and Namon Jonah, b. 1877, d. 1964, m. Elvira Mariah Wyatt.

During the war in 1862, Elijah enlisted as a private in the Phillips Legion, Company B, C.S.A. and continued service until he was paroled at the end of the war. Following the war, probably in the later part of 1865, he moved his family to Alabama. They settled in the northeast corner of Covington County, but the property fell in Crenshaw County when it was created in 1866.

About the same time, Elijah and Christopher’s father, James Oliver, moved what was left of his family to the same area. With him were his wife and his daughter, Julia Ann, with her two children. They were probably encouraged by the relatives already living here and looking for a way to recover from the ravages of the war.

Julia Ann had lost her husband, James Jefferson Lanier, a brother to Elijah’s wife, during the war. He entered the Confederate Army as a member of Company B, 31st. Regiment of the Georgia Volunteer Infantry, and died at the end of 1862. He left Julia a young widow with their two young children, Melissa and James Albert. They returned to her parents’ home and made the move to Alabama. They were still in this family when the 1870 census was taken.

Following his father and brothers, Green Berry, moved his family into Alabama during the mid-1870s and settled near his relatives. He and Dorcus soon became grandparents, and the family became rooted in the southeast corner of Crenshaw County. They became closely associated with the Union Primitive Baptist Church. During 1887, he, his son, James Henry, each homesteaded 80 acres of land in the Union community. Also, Snow B. Morgan homesteaded 161 acres of land in the same section.

The brother named James Jackson had moved his family to Pike County by 1870. He had lost his first wife, Susan Cartledge, in Georgia and was remarried there to Rebecca Eleanor Coffee. They eventually settled in Coffee County where they died and were buried in the Keyton Cemetery on the outskirts of Enterprise. The only known child for James Jackson is a daughter, Rosie, born to his second wife. She was born in 1853 and died in 1931.

Another brother, Thomas, lost his life during early 1865 in the conflict in Virginia. Apparently the other children of James Oliver chose to remain in Georgia.

There were several members of the next generation of this family who moved into Covington County to rear their families. In the next column, a number of these will be presented to identify the descendants and to recognize other families related to this one.

Appreciation is expressed to two descendants of this family, Rex Everage of Enterprise and Dan Shehan of Andalusia, who graciously shared their family records for this writing. Anyone who might have corrections or additional information is requested to contact Curtis Thomasson at Route 9, Box 97, Andalusia, AL 36420 or Email: chthom@alaweb.com

Historical Meeting:

The Covington Historical Society will hold its monthly meeting at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 29. Members will meet at the Lake Jackson Park Pavillion in Florala for a field trip to Fink’s Mill.

Reunion:

A reunion of descendants of the early Moody settlers is scheduled for Sunday, Sept. 23, at the Macedonia United Methodist Church in Rose Hill. Call Annette Ham at 334-493-9094 for more information.