Hamilton and James County Biographies E - G

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Eagar, William H.

          William H. Eagar, agent for the Cincinnati, New Orleans & Texas Pacific, and Alabama & Great Southern, was born in New Orleans, February 14, 1851. He was reared in Selma, Ala., where he removed with his parents when a child. In 1872, he engaged in the railroad business in the employ of the Alabama Central Railroad (now East Tennessee, Virginia & Georgia), and continued with that road as clerk, paymaster and conductor until 1874, when he entered the employ of the Alabama & Chattanooga (now Alabama & Great Southern Railroad), and has been with this road ever since. August 21, 1874, be united his fortunes with those of Miss Sarah J. East, a native of Alabama, and the result of this union was the birth of three children-two sons and one daughter-all of whom are living. Mr. Eagar came to Chattanooga in 1877, and in February, 1880, was made agent for the Alabama & Great Southern, and November 1, 1881, be was made joint agent for both roads. He is a Democrat in politics, a member of the American Legion of Honor, and also a member of the Episcopal Church.
Goodspeed's History of Tennessee 1887

Eakin, Albert           

          Albert Eakin, of the firm of Eakin & Co., grain dealers of Chattanooga, was born in Bedford County, Tenn., July 13, 1843, and is the son of John and Lucretia (Pearson) Eakin. The father was of Scotch-Irish lineage, and was one of the most successful citizens of Bedford County, and reputed one of the wealthiest citizens of the State at the time of his death, which occurred in 1849. The mother was a native of South Carolina. Our subject was educated in New Haven, Conn., and prepared for Yale, but the war breaking out, he came home and enlisted in Company F, Forty-first Regiment Tennessee Infantry. He was captured at Fort Donelson, and imprisoned eight months, after which he reentered the service, acting as commissary to the brigade of cavalry under Gen. Joseph Wheeler until the surrender. In October, 1865, he married Miss Cyrena Buford, who died in June, 1880, leaving one daughter. In 1868 Mr. Eakin entered the grain business in Shelbyville, Tenn.  In 1881 he went to Nashville and followed the same business. In July, of the same year, he married Laura Dayton, of Shelbyville, who bore him two children-a son and daughter. Mr. Eakin is a Democrat, and a member of the First Baptist Church. In June, 1882, he came to Chattanooga, and engaged in the grain business. In May, 1886 he engaged with the above mentioned firm, whose individual members are Albert Eakin, Thomas H. Cheek and James D. Buttolph, in the grain business.  They erected their present elevator on the Nashville, Chattanooga & St. Louis Railroad, corner of Boyce and Cravens Streets. The elevator is ninety feet high, four stories, and is 48x110 feet, including platforms, storage capacity of bulk and sack grain, 100,000 bushels. They have all the latest combined improvements in elevators.  Has Caldwell's conveyors and Barnett & Lee's separators, and has a capacity of handling and cleaning twenty car loads of grain per day. They give employment to twelve men on an average, do a general storage business, and also buy and sell about $400,000 worth of grain per year at present. They ship to nearly all points in the Southern States. In connection with this business, they have a mill for the manufacture of chopped feed, which is becoming a popular stock feed in the South. Goodspeed's History of Tennessee 1887. 

Elder, George Saffarrans             

          George Saffarrans Elder, son of Leander M. Elder and Mary Saffarrans Elder, was born in Chattanooga, Dec.12, 1879. He was educated in the public schools of Chattanooga and at Baylor School. When he was twenty years of age he went to St. Louis to reside and engaged in business in that city. In 1916 he organized the Elder Manufacturing Company and in 1921 after a remarkably successful career as a manufacturer he retired from active business life and decided to return to Chattanooga, the home of his boyhood, to reside. He purchased a country estate on Raccoon Mountain, a spur of the Cumberland Range. The estate of many thousand acres was entirely undeveloped much of it being virgin forest. His home of native rock, built on the crown of the Mountain, was erected under his personal supervision, and it is one of the most interesting features of Chattanooga's landscape. It commands a superb view of the wide panorama that includes Chattanooga and the surrounding country. It can be seen from the city and is like an ancient rock castle set on the bluff of the high mountain. In converting the estate into a private park of infinite loveliness, Mr. Elder preserved the virgin growth leaving the wild and rugged aspect in many areas. Mr. Elder married Hazel Garrison in St. Louis in 1907. She was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Oliver Lawrence Garrison, members of old St. Louis families. Mr. Elder died May 24,1924. Mrs. Elder carries on the management of the large estate and also finds time to be actively interested in Chattanooga's civic, social and church affairs in which she is recognized as a leader and a distinct force.  Their two children are O. L. Garrison Elder and Mary Elder who married Charles B. Coleman

.“The History of Hamilton County and Chattanooga Tennessee, Volume 1,” by Zella Armstrong

Elder, John W, Jr.           

          John W. Elder, Jr., of Chattanooga is a native of Trenton, Tenn., born August 2, 1653, and a son of Henry L. and Harriet N. (Houston) Elder, natives of Tennessee. Our subject was educated in the University of Tennessee and graduated from that institution in 1874. He studied law under ex-Supreme Judge T. J. Freeman and practiced law from 1876 (the time he came to Chattanooga) until 1881, when, on account of failing health, he relinquished the profession, and has since been actively engaged in the real estate and insurance business, representing Queen of England, Sun, Fire, of London; Equitable, of Nashville; Washington Fire and Marine, Of Boston, and Fire Insurance Association, of London. May 18, 1881, be married Miss B. McMillin, of Chattanooga, a daughter of D. C. McMillin, Sr. Mr. Elder is a Democrat, a member of the Royal Arcanum and present Commander of American Legion of Honor (local lodge) and also a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church South. Goodspeed's "History of East Tennessee" 1887 

Elder, L. M.          

           L. M. Elder, a legal practitioner of the firm of Elder & White, is a native of Trenton, Tenn., and a graduate of the University of Virginia in 1873. He then returned to Trenton, where he was admitted to the bar the same year. He practiced law alone for about one year, after which he was a member of the firm of Jones & Elder until the date of his coming to Chattanooga, November 1876. In 1875, he married Miss Mary Saffarans, a native of Memphis, who bore him five children-one son and four daughters. Mr. Elder practiced in the firm of Elder & Elder until 1882, after which he practiced alone until June of the same year, when the present firm was formed by our subject and George T. White. Our subject was president of the Y. M. C. A. of Chattanooga during 1880 and 1881 and is now a member of the board of directors. His father, John W., is a native of Murfreesboro, Tenn., and is at present president of the Gibson County Bank at Trenton, Tenn. The mother of our subject, Martha G. (Houston) Elder, was a native of Blount County, was reared in Alabama, and died at Trenton in 1878. Goodspeed's "History of East Tennessee" 1887 

Eldridge, Jessie C.            

          J. C. Eldridge M. D., a prominent practicing physician of the Second Civil District, James County, Tenn., was born near his present location July 9, 1846, and is the son of S. M. and Nancy Eldridge. The father was born in Roane County, Tenn., about 1811. He came to this location in 1835. He is a farmer and has been very successful. The mother is also still living. Our subject is the eldest of nine children; he has an academical education, secured at Savannah Seminary, and afterward at Riceville, McMinn Co., Tenn. He studied medicine under Dr. T. H. Roddy, at Ooltewah, James Co., Tenn. In the summer of 1863, he enlisted in Company H of the Fourth Tennessee Cavalry (Federal Army) and was elected corporal. He was in active service until February 16, 1865, when he lost his left arm at Memphis, and was in the hospital until October 18, 1865, when he returned home. In 1871 he attended lectures at Vanderbilt University, in Nashville, and in 1874 began the practice of medicine at his present location, continuing two years, when he went to Igou's Ferry, but returned to his former location after five years. He has secured a large and increasing practice by untiring energy. He is also engaged in farming. March 10, 1875, he married Miss Mary E. McGill, who was born in Hamilton County, Tenn., November 23, 1857. She has a good education, secured at Soddy Seminary. She is a member of the Presbyterian Church, and is the daughter of D. N. and Mary A. McGill. Our subject's union has resulted in the birth of six children, all living, their names being James W., Simeon A., David N., Mary C., Betty G. and Isaac C. Our subject is a member of the Baptist Church. In politics he is a Democrat.

“Goodspeed’s History of East Tennessee,” James County, 1887. 

1880 US Census, District 2, James Co., TN; Page 31

Evans, H. Clay            

           Hon. H. Clay Evans, a gentleman whose name is synonymous with the business interests and prosperity of Chattanooga, is a native of Juniata County, Penn., his birth occurring in 1843. His parents, Jesse B. and Anna (Shingle) Evans were also natives of the Keystone State, but removed from there to Wisconsin in 1846, where the subject of this sketch was reared and educated. In 1849 the father became infected with the gold fever, and leaving his family crossed to the Pacific Slope, where he engaged in mining. He died in Montana Territory in 1869. As a member of the Union Army, H. Clay Evans participated in its various fortunes until 1864, when he arrived in Chattanooga which has since been his home. For some time, he was connected with the Alabama & Chattanooga Railroad, and was one of the active promoters of the interests of the great Roane Iron Company. From 1874 to 1884 he served as secretary, treasurer, vice-president and general manager of the last-named corporation, but in the latter year was elected cashier of the First National Bank which position he resigned to accept the Republican candidacy for Congress in the Third Congressional District. Mr. Evans entered this contest with a Democratic majority of about 1,700 votes against him, but his known ability and personal popularity cut down the opposing majority to only sixty-eight votes. Besides being the present sole owner of the Anchor Flouring Mills, the largest in the South, Mr. Evans is the chief stockholder and manager of the Chattanooga Car & Foundry Company and is a large stock owner of the Lookout Mountain Inclined Railway Company. He served as city mayor two terms and is now a member of the board of mayor and alderman. He is a member of the Electric Light Company of Chattanooga, is the owner of one of the finest residences in the city (built at a cost of about $20, 000) on East Terrace Street, and is, in every sense of the word, a Chattanoogan, with Chattanooga ideas and with the proverbial enterprise of Chattanooga. Mr. Evans is a Sir Knight in Masonry. He married Miss Addie Durand, of Chautauqua County, N. Y., and their union has been fruitful in the birth of three children. 

Goodspeed's "History of East Tennessee" 1887

Fleming, P.           

          P. Fleming, plumber, steam and gas fitter and dealer in plumber and gas fitters' supplies, etc., is a native of Ireland, born in 1851. He immigrated to the United States in 1864, and passed several months in New York and Ohio, after which he came to Tennessee and located at Nashville. He remained in that city until 1872, when he removed to Chattanooga, and here followed the plumber's trade until 1875, after which, in connection with this be added his stock of supplies. He keeps ten men employed, and has a large trade in the city. In the year 1874 he was united in marriage to Miss Anna O'Donnell, a native of Chattanooga, who bore him one son, Martin, who was born in 1877. Mrs. Fleming's death occurred in 1878. Our subject's parents, Andrew and Mary (Karrigan) Fleming were both natives of the Emerald Isle, where the mother still resides. The father died in 1855.

 Goodspeed's "History of East Tennessee" 1887 

Fraer, Dr. J. M.            

          Dr. J. M. Fraer, a successful practitioner of Chattanooga, is the son of Peter and Celia (Bennett) Fraer. The father was born in New York and the mother in Liverpool, England, and when eight years of age was brought to Canada where she and Mr. Fraer were married. Having lived there about ten years they moved to Lewiston, N. Y., afterward to Niagara Falls and still later to Erie County, Penn., where both died. He was a manufacturer and inventor. Of the four children born to them only one is now living, our subject. He was born January 1, 1846, near Dundas, Canada. He received an academic education and a medical education at the Homoeopathic Hospital College of Cleveland, Ohio, at Detroit Homoeopathic Medical College and at New York Homoeopathic Medical College, graduating at Detroit and taking a post graduate course at New York. He also took private instructions in surgery under William T. Helmuth. After practicing until 1872 he came South and soon after established himself in Chattanooga. In 1883 he married Miss Julia Williams. For fourteen years he has been in the practice of his profession and has met with evident success as a physician. He passed through the several epidemics but stood at his post through all. He is a Knight of Pythias and an influential citizen.  

Goodspeed's "History of East Tennessee" 1887 

Frazier, James B.           

          James B. Frazier, of the legal firm of Shepherd & Frazier, is a native of the Sequatchie Valley of Tennessee, but was reared principally in the city of Nashville where he had exceptionally good school advantages. He pursued the regular course of study at the University of Tennessee, located at Knoxville, from which institution he graduated in 1878, and then began the study of law under the tuition of his father who is recognized as one of the ablest attorneys at the Nashville bar. He was admitted to practice in 1879, and the year following removed to Chattanooga and embarked in the practice of his profession, where he has acquired a good and steadily increasing practice. He continued alone until Jannary 1, 1884, when the present firm of Shepherd & Frazier was formed. Mr. Frazier is a member of the Masonic fraternity, is an able attorney and a first-class citizen in every respect. In 1883 he wedded Miss Lou Keith, who is a native of Athens, Tenn. His father, Thomas M. Frazier, is a native of Greene County, this State, but since 1869 has been a resident of Nashville, where for twelve years he served as judge of the criminal court. The mother of our subject was Margaret M. McReynolds, a native of Bledsoe County, Tenn. 

Goodspeed's "History of East Tennessee" 1887 

Frazier, S. J. A.            

          S. J. A. Frazier, of Hill City, Hamilton Co., Tenn., is a native of the eastern division of the State, his birth occurring in Rhea County, in 1840. Graduating at the East Tennessee University at Knoxville, just before the war, he entered the Confederate service, and arose to the rank of captain in the Nineteenth Tennessee Regiment. At Chickamauga be was shot through the windpipe and captured, and confined at Johnston's, Island, until the close of the war. In 1870 he was elected attorney-general for the Fourth Judicial Circuit of Tennessee; moved to Hamilton County in 1882, and became one of the earliest settlers and chief founders of Hill City. To his marriage with Annie Keith, which was solemnized in 1871, two children have been born, Alleck and Sallie. In the last Democratic convention Mr. Frazier was a prominent candidate for Congress. 

Goodspeed's "History of East Tennessee" 1887

Freeman, Charles B.            

           Charles B. Freeman, justice of the peace, was born in Dalton, Ga., November 25, 1858, and is a son of Judge J. P. Freeman of that place. His early life was, spent in various occupations until a railroad accident caused him to be a cripple for life. He then began the study of law under Hon. W. C. Glenn, of Dalton, Ga., and was admitted to the Dalton bar in 1880. Two years later, he came to Chattanooga, and practiced his profession in that city until January, 1884, when he was elected justice of the peace, at a special election, to fill the vacancy caused by the resignation of G. M. Sherwood. Mr. Freeman is a notary public and commissioner of deeds for New York, Michigan, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, North Carolina, Alabama, Georgia and Louisiana. 

Goodspeed's "History of East Tennessee" 1887  

French, Walter Scott           

          Walter Scott French, of the Phoenix Foundry Company. Our subject was born in Warren County, near McMinnville, Tenn., May 12, 1854, and is the only son of John H. and L. Virginia (Smith) French of three children born to them, his sisters being Jessie V. and May L. (Noel) French. His mother, of whom he is very proud, was born in Accomac County, Va., was educated in Washington County, Penn., began her literary career in Memphis, Tenn., and was married to John H. French, his father, in 1853, a native of Virginia and a resident of Tennessee, whose writings are too well known to need comment here. His early life was spent on his father's farm, where, under the tutorship of his excellent mother and a few local teachers, he received his primary education, and laid the foundation of a character for a useful life. In October, 1872, at the age of eighteen, he entered the Eastern Tennessee University, where he applied himself diligently to master the scientific course of the institution, stood high in his classes, and soon won the esteem and confidence of his instructors and follow students by his gentlemanly deportment. Owing to sickness in January, 1874, he was obliged to give up his studies and seek rest, which was much needed. Having regained his health, in October, 1875, he entered Frank Goodman & Company's Business College, at Nashville, Tenn., where in February, 1876, he graduated with honors, and in April of the same year entered upon active life, as bookkeeper for the manufacturing firm of T. F. Burroughs & Company, of his native town, at a nominal salary. Longing for a wider sphere of activity, and wishing to see more of the world, he decided to sever his connection with the firm, and on December 17, 1877, left for Chattanooga, Tenn., where without means and among strangers be began life anew. Disappointed in not finding ready employment, though by no means discouraged, his efforts were at last successful, and on January 8, 1878, he was taken into the employment of Mr. P. C. Wilson, glass dealer-a business entirely new to him-over many worthy applicants, at $20 per month, which was afterward increased as he became more proficient. As an appreciation of his services, his kind employer allowed him to represent the firm at the great banquet tendered by the citizens of Cincinnati to the merchants of the cities of the South, upon the formal opening of the Cincinnati Southern Railroad, where nearly 2,000 guests dined at Music Hall on March 18, 1880. In March of the next year he was called home to attend the bedside of his dying mother, where after a long illness she breathed her last on April 1, and was laid to rest. Two weeks after this event found him again at his business, and in August of the same year, at the earnest solicitations of his first employer, Mr. T. F. Burroughs and his father, he was induced to take a half interest in the firm. On September 7, 1881, be was married to Miss Ella M. Carpenter, a native of Indiana, and a former resident of Cleveland, Ohio, whose parents came to Chattanooga in 1874, and left for McMinnville, his old home, and immediately entered upon his duties in his new sphere. After eighteen months of patient and unceasing labor, and seeing that he was falling behind in meeting his payments, he at once determined to sell his interest, either to his partner or father, and return to Chattanooga. This he did, although he received no financial benefit in the transaction, except to clear himself of a debt of $8,000. The transfer was made to, his partner on March 15, 1883, and with a light heart he returned to his adopted city. In July of 1883 he, in conjunction with his wife's father and brother, organized the Phoenix Foundry Company, of which he was made secretary and treasurer, and owing to whose good management and devotion to its affairs brought the company safely through the depressing period of 1884-85. From the investment of $500 in this company, saved up by the severest economy and the frugal habits of his young wife, he is slowly gaining a place of honor among his follow citizens. Two children were born of this marriage - boys. Independent in politics, Presbyterian in his religious faith, a good citizen, energetic, conscientious and courageous, we leave him to bravely fight the battle of life set before him. 

Goodspeed's "History of East Tennessee" 1887 

Gahagan, Andrew J.           

          Andrew T. Gahagan, of Chattanooga, was born in Madison County, N. C., February 23, 1844, son of George W. and Mary E. (West) Gahagan, natives respectively of South and North Carolina. Our subject was reared and educated in North Carolina, and at the breaking out of the war enlisted in Company D, First Tennessee Cavalry (United States Volunteers), and during service was promoted to the rank of second and first lieutenant. During the last year of the war he served as quartermaster of his regiment. In 1867 he engaged in mercantile pursuits in Chattanooga but retired from this in 1878 and was elected trustee of Hamilton County, serving by re-election two terms or until 1882, when he was elected assistant cashier of the First National Bank. In 1884 he became a member of the firm of Loomis, Hart & Co., having charge of the finances of said firm. On the 1st of March, 1871, he married Eliza J. Dugger, of Chattanooga, and to them were born three children -two sons and one daughter. Mr. Gahagan is a Republican in politics, and as such was elected to the office of trustee. He served as a member of the board of mayor and aldermen several terms. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity, of the K. T., of the G. A. R and of the Methodist Episcopal Church North. 

Goodspeed's "History of East Tennessee" 1887

Gentry, William Newton & Rosa Caroline Green         

           “Newt" Gentry was born in Meigs County, Tennessee on April 10, 1870. His parents were John Wesley (British/Irish) and Ellen Jane Capps Gentry (Irish/Cherokee Indian). He was one of six children. His brothers were John, James, and Charlie. His sisters were Laura and Florence. On September 19, 1900, Newt married an Irish lass named Rosa Caroline Green, daughter of Rev. John Franklin and Polly Milburn (Young) Green. They were married in Bakewell, Tennessee but later moved to Sale Creek. They had nine children: Gertrude Rosetta (1902-1935) who married Charles Roscoe Gann, Lola Virginia. (1904- ) who married Herbert Harold Hogue, John N. (1906-1976) who married Sarah Bell Adkins, Ruth Aster (1908-1910), Thomas Franklin (1911-1973) married Lois Anglin Middlebrook, Anna Mae (1913-1936), Emma Jane (1917-1917), Edna Hazel (1919­who married Jack Geer, and Jessie Green (1921-1944) who had married Glenn Martin. Newt was a craftsman of wood. He built wooden caskets from fine poplar as did his brother-in-law, Will Jones. Years ago, funerals and viewing of the deceased was in the deceased's home. A couple of caskets were always kept ready for use. After the caskets were hand-planed and finished, the ladies, Mammy (Rosa) Gentry and Florence (Gentry) Jones, would line them with cotton batting and covered it with linen cloth.. After the viewing, the lids would be screwed on. The body would then be transported to the cemetery by wagon (later by truck) and placed in a hand-dug grave. The grave was then filled by men with shovels. Papa was known for his fine workmanship. When resting, he just sat down and leaned against a tree-and whittled.  He enjoyed whittling cedar and made rolling pins for his daughters or granddaughters. He had also made a play house for the kids. His occupation for many years was to "fire" the boiler for steam driven sawmills and lumber planers. He worked for Pat Hoffman, a local lumber mill owner. He was an expert at the job and even built a cabin in the mountains, insulated it with sawdust, and stayed for days at a time. When the crew arrived for work early in the morning, Newt would have the boiler at a "full head of steam ready for sawing. Papa had one problem; he liked to imbibe in the “spirits. I understand he contributed to the success of a local man who had no visible means of support-except moonshine. When he got paid he dropped by the “shine” dealer, and proceeded to get to the bottom of the jar. Then he took a nice long nap.  He kept a bottle of “cold” medicine handy and often felt too many cold symptoms coming on while firing the boiler. He became a safety liability, so he was fired for his own protection. He was fired as many times as he was hired. The next morning, planer operations could not commence since no one could fire a boiler like Newt. Pat would travel over to their house and ask Newt to come back and "fire the boiler". He did. Now, before you start getting too self-righteous, consider the facts. First of all, Newt was of Irish and Cherokee Indian extraction. The Irish are known for tipping the bottle. Papa did not want to give the Irish a bad name so he carried on in traditional Irish fashion. Indians were notoriously poor drinkers. They are known for not being able to “hold their liquor (Fire Water). So, poor Papa just couldn’t win-but he did his best to uphold the positive attributes of both ethnic groups. His drinking caused Rosa many hours of heartache but she never complained. She would put him to bed and let him sleep it off. She was a very patient lady. She sat in the dimly lit bedroom sewing while he slept. One of his daughters, Anna Mae, was not as tolerant as Rosa . Once she threw a hot sweet potato at him and hit him in the head. Poor Papa! Newt was not a bad man by any stretch of the imagination. Newt was an active Freemason and was Past Master of Sale Creek Lodge #280, F&AM. His picture hangs on the wall of the Lodge today. He had a good head on his shoulders. Newt was a short man and nice looking in earlier days. He, like many others, wore a felt hat and he had a mustache. He liked dogs. They had a little bulldog named "Ming". I faintly remember Papa; I was only 11 years old when he passed away on November 27, 1949 . The viewing and funeral was at their home. Rev. Roscoe Scott preached his funeral. He was laid to rest in the Welsh Cemetery in Sale Creek near MING! That's right, Ming is buried right there in their plot along with the rest of the family. This vignette is not meant to cast any shadows on his character; rather, it just paints a picture of the real man. Papa was an important part of my family tree and I’m proud of him.August 20, 1999PS. In 2002,  I visited the cemetery plot in 2002 and found that someone had removed the homemade marker for MING

Compiled and submitted by Rexford C. Alexander rexcalex@bellsouth.net. 

Giles, David 

           David Giles, president of the Chattanooga Foundry and Pipe Works, was born in Pittsburgh, Penn., February 27,1836, son of Thomas and Mary (Evans) Giles, natives of Wales. David Giles was reared to manhood in his native State and in Ohio. He learned the iron business in Pennsylvania, being a practical molder by trade. In 1857 he came South and accepted a position as foreman of a foundry at Nashville, where he continued until 1866, when he established a foundry in that city and conducted it successfully for one year, when Mr. C. B. Isbester became a partner, and these gentlemen, in 1877, moved the foundry to Chattanooga. Mr. Giles has been president of the present stock company since its organization as a stock company in July, 1882. He is a Republican in politics, a Knight of Honor, and is recognized as a reliable and enterprising businessman and citizen.
Goodspeed's "History of East Tennessee" 1887

Giles, David founder of what would become U.S. Pipe

          David Giles was born in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania to Welsh parents. In 1836 Giles accepted a position as foreman in a large foundry in Nashville, Tennessee where he stayed until the end of the Civil War. During the war the foundry began making shells for the Confederate Army. After the war Giles struck a partnership with C.B. Isbester and the two started their own company. Giles was married three times with each wife dying early. His first wife was Mary Ann McPhail who was the mother of his only daughter. Margaret Gillespie became wife number two and mother to Giles’ only son. Giles married a third time to Tennessee Thornton who passed away in 1876.

    In 1877 Giles moved to Chattanooga and decided that Chattanooga offered better manufacturing opportunities and shipping. In 1882 Giles formed a stock company under the name of Chattanooga Foundry and Pipe Works and became president. Giles remained the company president until it merged with U.S. Cast Iron Pipe and Foundry Company. With the merger David Giles became director and resident manager where he remained until his death. 

   Giles was not only a successful businessman but, also served on the board of directors for several Chattanooga banks and other industries. He was a member of the Hamilton County Court from 1900 to 1906 serving Lookout Mountain. In 1906 Giles built a beautiful home on Lookout Mountain which was considered one of the most attractive residences in the area. David Giles passed away on July 23, 1910, and was buried in Forest Hills Cemetery. After his death, his son J. Thomas Giles became resident manager and proved to be a worthy successor to his father. U.S. Pipe closed down the Chattanooga operations in 2003.

Jeffrey C. Webb mysaintelmo.com

Gillaspie, William            

          William Gillaspie, farmer, was born June 27, 1842, in Knox County, Tenn., and is the second of eight children born to Marcus and Eliza Jane (Simpson) Gillaspie. Marcus Gillaspie was born in Knox County, in 1809, and died in 1861. His wife was born May 16, 1818, in Ireland. She came with her parents to America when about nine years of age and settled first in Philadelphia. In 1830 they moved to Claiborne County, Tenn., and from there to Knox County, in 1833, where Miss Simpson married Marcus Gillaspie. She is still living and makes her home with her son, William. Both Mr. and Mrs. Gillaspie were members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, from the time they were first married. Our subject received a fair education in the schools of Hamilton County and assisted his father on the farm until the breaking out of the war, when he enlisted in Capt. White's company, Fifth Tennessee Cavalry, and served three months. His father died, and he was released and returned home. In the fall of 1862 he volunteered again, this time joining Capt. Roger's company, the Fourth Georgia Cavalry. He was sergeant of his company until the winter of 1865, and the company was escort for Gen. Walker during the battles of Chickamauga and Missionary Ridge. After the war Mr. Gillaspie returned to agricultural pursuits, which he has since continued. In January 1887, he was elected road commissioner of his district. He was married in 1885 to Miss Maggie Castle, a native of Hamilton County, born in 1861, and the daughter of Samue1 and Mary (Dody) Castle. Mrs. Gillaspie is a member of the Catholic Church, and Mr. Gillaspie of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He commenced life a poor man and is now in very comfortable circumstances. He owns 190 acres of excellent land located on the Bird's Mill Road, four and a half miles east of Chattanooga. Mr. Jacob Gillaspie, grandfather of the subject of this sketch, was a soldier in the struggle for independence. He resided in North Carolina previous to the Revolution, but after that event moved to Knox County, Tenn., settling first in a fort near where Campbell's Station now is. He was of Irish descent. Goodspeed's "History of East Tennessee" 1887. 

Gleeson, Rev. Patrick J.            

          Rev. Patrick J. Gleeson, pastor of the Roman Catholic Church of SS. Peter and Paul, was born in Ireland in April 1846. Having received a thorough classical and English education in his native country, he came to America in the fall of 1868. He taught the catholic school of Knoxville, Tenn., soon after his arrival in the country to the close of the school year. In September 1869, he resumed his studies for the priesthood, entering Mount St. Mary's Seminary of the West, Cincinnati, Ohio. Here he continued the usual course of study of philosophy and theology, and received minor orders, sub-deaconship and deaconship from the Most Rev. John Baptist Purcell, archbishop of Cincinnati, on the Ember Days, in December 1872. He was ordained priest on January 23, 1873, in the cathedral of Nashville, Tenn., by Most Rev. P. A. Feehan, the bishop of Nashville now archbishop of Chicago. A week later he was sent on his first mission to Clarksville, Tenn. He labored in Montgomery and adjoining counties until transferred to his present charge, arriving in Chattanooga July 18, 1885. Goodspeed's "History of East Tennessee" 1887.

Gordy, Terry AKA Terry “Bam Bam” Gordy        

          Terry Ray Gordy Sr.  April 23, 1961 – July 16, 2001, was a Chattanooga area professional wrestler. Gordy appeared in the United States with promotions such as Mid-America, Mid-South Wrestling, Georgia Championship Wrestling, World Class Championship Wrestling, Jim Crockett Promotions/World Championship Wrestling and the Universal Wrestling Federation as a member of The Fabulous Freebirds. He also appeared in Japan with All Japan Pro Wrestling as one-half of The Miracle Violence Connection.

Early career (1975–1982)        Gordy was a standout high school football and baseball player at Rossville High School but dropped out of high school following his freshman year. Trained by Archie Gouldie, he started wrestling at the age of 13 in 1974 as Terry Mecca for the International Wrestling Association. In early 1979, he began wrestling under his real name and formed The Fabulous Freebirds with Michael Hayes, and Buddy Roberts being added later to the group. Gordy and Hayes had met while training in Mississippi the year prior. In 1980, the Freebirds moved to Georgia Championship Wrestling, where they won the territory’s tag team championship. The Fabulous Freebirds had feuds while there, including those against Tommy Rich, Junkyard Dog, Kevin Sullivan, Austin Idol, and Ted DiBiase, and became one of the first acts to use entrance music. One match on the Saturday night WTBS Georgia Championship Wrestling show saw the Freebirds take on the Junkyard Dog and Ted DiBiase, where towards the end of the match, Gordy gave DiBiase 4 consecutive piledrivers, which led to DiBiase being taken away in an ambulance. In 1981, the Freebirds split up when Buddy Roberts left the area. Michael and Terry then had a falling out, which led to a feud against each other. Terry and Michael eventually put their differences aside, and reformed the Freebirds as a duo in 1982 when they feuded with Ole Anderson and Stan Hansen. World Class Championship Wrestling (1982–1989)         In 1982, the Freebirds went to World Class Championship Wrestling and had a feud with the Von Erichs (David, Kevin, Kerry and Mike), which kicked off when Gordy slammed the cage door on Kerry during his cage match on March 15 at WCCW Star Wars against Ric Flair, where Michael Hayes served as the special guest referee, inciting a riot among fans attending. They traded the six man title back and forth a few times over the years. Gordy was also at one time one half of the WCCW American Tag Team Champions.] While in WCCW, Killer Khan taught Gordy how to perform the Oriental Spike, which he dubbed the Asiatic Spike. 

All Japan Pro Wrestling (1983–1994)    Gordy teamed with Stan Hansen beginning in 1983 in All Japan Pro Wrestling. Gordy later teamed with "Dr. Death" Steve Williams as The Miracle Violence Connection. During his time there, he also held the Triple Crown Heavyweight Championship on two occasions. 

World Wrestling Federation (1984)    The Freebirds spent a brief time in the World Wrestling Federation in 1984, but were fired after missing a show and showing up late and drunk.

Championship and   In 1986, when the Freebirds were in Universal Wrestling Federation, the former Mid South Wrestling, Gordy became the first person to win the UWF Heavyweight    and held it for six months, before losing it via forfeit to The One Man Gang, after an angle the same night in which Gordy was injured in an auto accident by "Dr. Death" Steve Williams, whom he feuded with..During this time, Gordy and the Freebirds had an ongoing feud with Hacksaw Jim Duggan, in which Duggan and Gordy squared off, usually ending in a disqualification because of outside interference.

Jim Crockett Promotions/NWA World Championship Wrestling (1987, 1989, 1992) The Freebirds spent some time in the National Wrestling Alliance's Jim Crockett Promotions where they split to feud briefly, but later reunited. In 1989, Gordy helped Hayes to reform the Freebirds, with Jimmy Garvin, in the NWA, which became World Championship Wrestling in 1991. Later, he and Steve Williams defeated the Steiners to become World Tag Team Champions.Gordy and Williams returned to World Championship Wrestling (WCW) in 1992 and won the WCW World Tag Team titles. At that point, they were considered the most dominant team in wrestling, making $10,000 to $15,000 a week.They also won the NWA World Tag Team titles in a tournament at the Great American Bash card in Albany, Georgia, one week later, and unified the titles. Their feud with Rick and Scott Steiner in Japan was hyped as a feud between the best foreign teams of the two top Japanese promotions (the Steiners were competing for rival New Japan Pro-Wrestling at the time) Despite advances by New Japan, Gordy and Williams, out of loyalty to the AJPW founder and promoter, Giant Baba, refused to compete for the promotion (which had business ties with WCW at the time), leading to Gordy's departure from WCW before Halloween Havoc and Williams' departure after Starrcade.On August 18, 1993, while traveling from the United States to Japan for a tour, Gordy took an overdose  of pain medication and slipped into a five-day coma, ultimately suffering permanent brain damage. As a result, he had to relearn how to talk, walk, and wrestle. He returned to action later that year, but never received a shot at the Triple Crown again or possessed the skills he once had. In 1994, Gordy had a small reunion with Hayes and Garvin as the Freebirds in the Global Wrestling Federation where he and Garvin won the GWF Tag Team Titles.

Various promotions (1989-1995)        After World Class folded in 1989, Gordy wrestled in various promotions. He started working for United States Wrestling Association (USWA). In 1991, he worked for Universal Wrestling Federation where he feuded with Don Muraco. In 1994, he reunited with The Freebirds (Michael Hayes and Jimmy Garvin) for Global Wrestling Federation in Texas where they feuded with Bill Irwin, Black Bart and Moadib. Gordy returned to USWA in 1995, where he teamed with Tracy Smothers.

Smokey Mountain Wrestling (1995)         In 1995, Gordy worked for Smokey Mountain Wrestling, teaming with Tommy Rich as the Militia. Gordy won the SMW Heavyweight Championship by defeating Brad Armstrong when he teamed with Thrasher to defeat Armstrong and the Wolfman on October 27.  A month later, he dropped the title back to Armstrong in a Country whipping match.

Extreme Championship Wrestling (1996)         In 1996, Gordy appeared in Extreme Championship Wrestling to challenge Raven for the ECW World Heavyweight title, as the "internationally recognized #1 contender".  He had been working for the International Wrestling Association of Japan promotion, wrestling death matches. He lost, but went on to team up with Tommy Dreamer and later to reunite with "Dr. Death" Steve Williams to wrestle The Eliminators. He also wrestled Bam Bam Bigelow at Ultimate Jeopardy in what was billed as the second ever "Battle Of The Bam Bams" (The first happened on a Windy City Wrestling show), which he lost due to outside interference from The Eliminators

Return to World Wrestling Federation (1996–1997, 1998)         Gordy had a brief run in the WWF as The Executioner in 1996 and 1997, where he teamed up with Mankind, both managed by Paul Bearer, and feuded with The Undertaker. The Executioner came to the ring under a mask and carrying an axe as Bearer's "hired assassin". He made his TV debut at the In Your House pay-per-view Buried Alive on October 20, 1996, where he interfered in The Undertaker's Buried Alive match with Mankind, hitting Undertaker with a shovel and burying him with the help of Mankind and several other wrestlers. However, at In Your House 12: It's Time on December 15, The Undertaker defeated The Executioner in an Armageddon Rules match, and Gordy left the promotion shortly afterwards.

Later career (1998–2001)         After leaving the WWF and Japan, Gordy worked in the independent circuit. On February 21, 1998, Gordy teamed with Dan Severn in a losing effort to Doug Gilbert and Dutch Mantel at the Eddie Gilbert Memorial Show for IWA Mid-South. Gordy would reunite with Hayes as they fought Glen Kulka and JR Smooth to a no contest for Power Pro Wrestling on May 28, 1999. He wrestled his last match returning to IWA Japan on February 4, 2001 with Shoichi Ichimiya, Tomohiro Ishii, Yukihide Ueno, and Yuji Kito, defeating Doug Gilbert, TJ Shinjuku, Ultra Sebun, Takashi Uwano and Keizo Mastuda. The specifics about Terry Gordy’s death have never been fully revealed; however, it is known that the wrestler passed away on July 16, 2001. Bam Bam was just 40 years old at the time of his death.An autopsy was performed to determine the exact cause of his death, and it was ruled that he died of a heart attack that was triggered by the formation of a blood clot that traveled to his heart. Many people speculate that the years of drug abuse and his weight contributed to his untimely death. 

Championships and accomplishments

 All Japan Pro Wrestling Triple Crown Heavyweight Championship 2 timesWorld Tag Team Championship 7 times – with Stan Hansen 2 times and Steve Williams 5 times, World's Strongest Tag Determination League (1988, 1990, 1991) – with Stan Hansen (1988) and Steve Williams (1990 and 1991), World's Strongest Tag Determination League Fighting Spirit Award (1989) – with Bill Irwin

Georgia Championship Wrestling NWA Georgia Tag Team Championship 1 time – with Michael Hayes, NWA National Tag Team Championship 4 times – with Michael Hayes 3 times and Jimmy Snuka 1 time

Global Wrestling Federation GWF Tag Team Championship 1 time – with Jimmy Garvin

Mid-South Wrestling Association | Universal Wrestling Federation Mid-South Louisiana Championship 1 time, Mid-South Mississippi Heavyweight Championship 1 time, Mid-South Tag Team Championship 2 times – with Michael Hayes  1 time and Buddy Roberts 1 time, UWF Heavyweight Championship 1 time, UWF Heavyweight Championship Tournament (1986)

NWA Mid-America NWA Mid-America Tag Team Championship 2 times – with Michael Hayes

Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame Class of 2015 as a member of The Fabulous Freebirds

Pro Wrestling Illustrated Most Improved Wrestler of the Year (1986), Tag Team of the Year (1981) – with Michael Hayes, Tag Team of the Year (1992) – with Steve Williams, Ranked No. 31 of the top 500 singles wrestlers in the PWI 500 in 1992, Ranked No. 36 of the top 500 singles wrestlers of the "PWI Years" in 2003, Ranked No. 3, 16, and 34 of the top 100 tag teams of the "PWI Years" with Michael Hayes, Steve Williams, and Stan Hansen, respectively, in 2003

Southeastern Championship Wrestling NWA Alabama Heavyweight Championship 1 time, NWA Southeastern Heavyweight Championship (Northern Division) 1 time

Smoky Mountain Wrestling SMW Heavyweight Championship 1 time

Texas Wrestling Hall of Fame Class of 2014

World Championship Wrestling WCW World Tag Team Championship 1 time– with Steve Williams, NWA World Tag Team Championship 1 time – with Steve Williams, NWA World Tag Team Championship Tournament (1992) – Steve Williams

World Class Championship Wrestling | World Class Wrestling Association NWA American Heavyweight Championship 1 time, NWA American Tag Team Championship 1 time– with Michael Hayes, NWA Brass Knuckles Championship (Texas version) 1 time, NWA World Six-Man Tag Team Championship (Texas version) 6 times – with Michael Hayes & Buddy Roberts 5 times and Iceman Parsons & Buddy Roberts 1 time, WCWA World Six-Man Tag Team Championship 1 time – with Michael Hayes & Buddy Roberts 2

WWE WWE Hall of Fame (Class of 2016) – as a member of The Fabulous Freebirds

Wrestling Observer Newsletter  Best Brawler (1986), Match of the Year (1984) with Buddy Roberts and Michael Hayes vs. the Von Erichs (Kerry, Kevin, and Mike) in an Anything Goes match on July 4, Best Three-Man Team (1983) with Michael Hayes & Buddy Roberts, Tag Team of the Year (1980) with Buddy Roberts as The Fabulous Freebirds, Tag Team of the Year (1981) with Jimmy Snuka Tag Team of the Year (1992) with Steve Williams as The Miracle Violence Connection

Wrestling Observer Newsletter Hall of Fame (Class of 2005) – as part of The Fabulous Freebirds