Hamilton County Tennessee Genealogy Society

Hamilton County Tennessee Genealogy SocietyHamilton County Tennessee Genealogy SocietyHamilton County Tennessee Genealogy Society

Hamilton County Tennessee Genealogy Society

Hamilton County Tennessee Genealogy SocietyHamilton County Tennessee Genealogy SocietyHamilton County Tennessee Genealogy Society
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Hamilton and James County Biographies E - G

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



Gann, Gertrude Rosetta Gentry          

          Gertie, as she was known, was born July 27, 1902, to William Newton and Rosa Caroline (Green) Gentry. She was the first of nine children. It is unknown exactly where she was born, but the last Gentry homestead was on Back Valley Road in Hodgetown, which was part of Sale Creek, Tennessee. Her siblings were: Lola Virginia. (1904) who married Jack Hogue, John N. (1906) who married Sarah Adkins, Ruth ((1908) who died at age 2, Thomas Franklin (1911) married Lois?, Anna Mae (1913), Emma Jane (1917) who lived only 17 days, Edna Hazel (1919) who married Jack Geer, and Jessie Green (1921). Gertie married Charles Roscoe Gann on August 31, 1919. They lived in Chattanooga, Tennessee, Michigan, and finally resided in the Caloway Gann home place in Sale Creek. She helped care for Charlie's mother, Anna Eliza (Smith) Gann, until her death in 1924. By that time, she had given birth to four children: Anna Roselyn (1920), Viola Marie (192 1), Charles William (1923), and Harold Lewis (1924). She later bore Paul Thomas (1926), Jack Roscoe (1928), and Joyce Elizabeth (1934). She endured hard times during the "Great Depression" and was subjected to severe spousal abuse by Charlie. They lost four-year-old Paul on March 17, 1930, due to an undetermined illness. Even through this she was a loving mother and left a lasting, positive impression on her children. Hard work was demanded by all in the household. Farming, clearing land, keeping house, cooking, and all chores had to meet Charlie's expectations. Roselyn remembers times when Gertie and the children went over to the Gentry's, peeled apples all afternoon, then cooked apple butter the next day in a large brass kettle. The children kept the fire at just the right temperature. It should be noted that Roselyn and Viola were about the same age as Edna and Jessie. A surviving church song book with her signature revealed that she read music and played the organ and perhaps the piano. The old organ remained at the Gann home until the death of Charlie. Apparently, she sang and perhaps this inspired her oldest son, Charles W., to join in the Sale Creek High School group which assembled with other schools to form an 800-voice concert at Memorial Auditorium in 1939/40 A Sixth Grade Graduation Certificate attests that she went that far in school. No other records are available but at that point in time, education of girls was not a high priority. She was active in the Sale Creek School PTA. A 1933 (34) Parent Teacher Association (PTA) photograph was taken in front of the Sale Creek School. It clearly shows Gertie, her mother Rosa, as well as Logan and Mae Alexander in attendance. A chronological review of her pictures reveals that being pregnant so often, abortions, hard times, abuse, and other factors brought an early end to the life of a once-beautiful young lady. Having aged rapidly and suffering from infection from a botched abortion, Gertie died January 16, 1935, at 32 years of age. Her children were devastated! Roselyn was only 14, Viola 13, Charles 11, Harold 10, Jack was almost 7, and Joyce was only 9 months old. Her funeral was held 2 PM, Friday, Jan 18, 1935, at the Sale Creek Presbyterian Church and she was laid to rest in the Welsh Cemetery. The family would never be the same

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


 Gaskill, C. R.            

          C. R. Gaskill, president of the Chattanooga Iron Fence & Screw Company, secretary of the Chattanooga Street Railroad Company, and assistant cashier of the Third National Bank of this city, is a native of Georgia, and was educated at the capital of that State. In 1872 he came to Chattanooga and commenced reading law. In 1873 he accepted a position in the First National Bank as collector, which position he filled acceptably until 1877. Having in the meantime kept up his study of the law, he was then admitted to the bar and pursued the practice of the profession until 1881, when he returned to the banking business by accepting the position of bookkeeper in the Third National Bank and has been connected with that corporation until the present time, having served as assistant cashier since 1883. Mr. Gaskill is a member of the Masonic brotherhood, in which order he attained the rank of Knight Templar. He wedded Sallie Lee, a native of Crawfish Springs, Ga., and by her is the father of one daughter, Annie Lee. He is the son of V. A. and M. A. (Battle) Gaskill, who were natives of Rutland, Vt., and Georgia, respectively. The father is yet living at his birthplace in New England, but the mother died in 1867.

Goodspeed's "History of East Tennessee" 1887 


 Gaston, Joseph L.           

          Joseph L. Gaston, M. D., is a son of Mitchel and Jane (Wilson) Gaston, both natives of East Tennessee, where they were married and have since passed their days. They now reside near Chattanooga, and the father cultivates the soil. Joseph L. was born in McMinn County, Tenn., January 26, 1848, and passed his youthful days on the farm. He received his literary education at the Grant Memorial University, at Athens, Tenn., from which institution he graduated in 1871. He then taught school and read medicine for two years. He then entered the University Medical College of New York and graduated there in 1875. He practiced medicine at Harrison, James Co., Tenn., until 1880. Then, on account of failing health he virtually relinquished the practice of medicine and was elected State senator. In 1882 he resigned that office to accept the position of collector of customs at the port of Chattanooga, which position he held until the change of administration in 1885. In January 1885, he was elected city treasurer for the city of Chattanooga and served his time-one year-in that capacity. Having by this time regained his health, he again resumed the practice of medicine in Chattanooga. He is now, in 1887, city physician and secretary of the Board of United States Pension Examiners. In December 1878, he married Celestia Lamon, and to them have been born two children, Fred and Harry. He and Mrs. Gaston are both members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 

Goodspeed's "History of East Tennessee" 1887 


 Gentry, John Wesley & Ellen Jane Capps            

          John Wesley Gentry was born in South Carolina in the year 1838 to John Gentry and Emma Gentry, of Spartanburg, South Carolina. His father was probably second-generation Irish American. The 1779 Colony of South Carolina listed only two, “John Gentry’s”.  In 1820, there was a total of nine named John Gentry.) John Wesley migrated to Georgia; it is unknown whether it was with or without his family. At the age of 23 years of age (1861), the Civil War began, and he enlisted in the 8th Georgia Infantry, Company A, CSA.  The unit was based in Rome, Georgia. After the war, he met and married a young lady, Ellen Jane Capps (1841-1917). They were wed March 1867. Ellen was the daughter of Frank M. and Emma Capps. Emma was a full-blood Cherokee from the North Carolina reservation, thereby, making Ellen one-half Cherokee. Ellen was born only 3 years after the “Trail of Tear”. The 1900 Hamilton County, TN census indicates her birthplace was Alabama; Father Frank was born in NC and Mother Emma in TN. Being an Indian or part-Indian was not the sort of information they boasted of during those days. Mother Emma is not buried in this area, but Frank lived and died here after John Wesley and Ellen settled in the Bakewell/Sale Creek, Tennessee area. . John Wesley and Ellen had six children: (1)  John M. was a soldier in the Spanish-American War 2. Charlie (1872) married Nancy Gothard ,(3) James Francis (1876) (4)  


 

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   

 Graham, Eddie

        Eddie Graham, was born Edward F. Gosset  0n January 15, 1930 in Chattanooga, Tennessee, and was one of professional wrestling's greatest draws throughout the country from the 1950s through the early '70s.

"When I was a kid I peddled newspapers in Chattanooga," Graham said at the time. "You know you can get into trouble on the street. The newspaper gave all of us memberships to the YMCA. It was a gift to me, otherwise I wouldn't have been able to go. It was at the Chattanooga YMCA that Graham started to wrestler. "That's the way I got to be an athlete and it is where I had my first encounter with wrestling." He wrestled professional the first time at the age of 17 in 1947 in Chattanooga and was paid off with a 25-pound turkey.

Graham eventually left Chattanooga and moved to Florida where he was president of Championship Wrestling from Florida Inc., which gained national fame through its highly rated television matches.

Graham, who had the image of a man in a relentless and often brutal pursuit of victory in the ring, was also known for his compassion and benevolence beyond it.

Graham championed the organization and development of the Florida Boys Ranch and Girls Villa among many other youth-oriented projects. It has been stated that Graham was one of the most respected men in Wrestling,

Graham, Pro-Wrestler C.P. "Cowboy" Luttrall and then Hillsborough Sheriff Ed Blackburn spearheaded a drive in 1957 to establish the Florida Sheriff's Boys Ranch in Live Oak.

A portion of the gate from all matches promoted in the state by Championship Wrestling from Florida went to the Boys Ranch and Girls Villa.

The Boy's Ranch was designed after the Texas Boys Ranch, which was started in Texas by professional wrestler Cal Farley, who hired wrestler Dory Funk Sr. to operate it for him.

Graham became Luttrall's protege in the mid-'50s and rose to become the North American heavyweight champion, one of wrestling's biggest draws in Madison Square Garden and around the country and as president of the National Wrestling Alliance.

A national wrestling publication proclaimed him as wrestler of the year in 1961.

Graham held numerous regional titles and his matches with the Great Malenko, Bob Orton and others for the Southern heavyweight championship were top draws in Tampa.

Graham and his son Mike became the sport's first father-son tag team champions in Georgia in the 1970s. 

        Graham sold L&G Promotions in 1972 in order to devote more time to team wrestling with Mike.

Eddie Graham, whose real name was Eddie Gossett, had not wrestled for several years, but more than once came back from serious injuries.

An accident involving him at Fort Hesterly Armory in 1968 gained widespread attention and took him out of wrestling for 15 months. A 75-pound steel window fell on Graham's head while he was putting on his shoes in the dressing room. Graham, already blind in one eye, suffered torn retinas in both eyes and such severe injuries otherwise he needed 300 stitches around his head and face.

Eventually, the state legislature awarded him $23,399 in damages.

        Graham championed amateur wrestling at the high school and college levels and donated approximately $10,000 to the University of Florida in 1978 for outfitting a wrestling room which came to be known as the Eddie Graham Room. To Graham's dismay, however, Florida dropped wrestling a couple of years later. He also established a $500 wrestling scholarship at the University of Tampa.

Graham's benevolence brought him many honors from various organizations. The PAL gave him its achievement award in 1963 and the Boys Clubs honored him with its Man-Boy award in 1970.

In 1978, the Tampa Sports Club made Graham its sports citizen of the year for major contributions to amateur wrestling. In 1980, Sen. Richard Stone awarded to Graham an American flag which flew over the White House, and proceeds from an Eddie Graham Happy Birthday Roast went to the leukemia fund.

The Florida Sheriff's Boys Ranch honored him in 1982. In 1967, Graham entertained orphaned boys at Eddie Graham's Youth Camp on Lake Leclair north of Tampa.

"God gave me a decent enough body to be an athlete," he said. "That put me in the public eye. Not only did I have obligations to my family, but I feel like I can influence young people."

Sadly, on Tuesday, January 22, 1985 due to financial problems, legal action and facing prison time, Graham took his own life with multiple gun shots to the head

Note: Years late Graham's son Mike Graham took his life in the exact same manner as his father.

Tampa Bay Tribune,  

Green, Jesse A. 

          Jesse A. Green, sheriff of James County, and resident of Ooltewah, was born eleven miles east of Knoxville, Knox Co., Tenn., January 17, 1828. He is the second of eight children born to Samuel and Martha (Ferguson) Green. The father was born in Knox County, Tenn., about 1789, of English-Irish descent. He died in Hamilton (now James) County, October 15, 1855. He was married in his native county, and a few years later went to Roane County. Shortly afterward he located in Hamilton County, being among the early settlers. He was a farmer by occupation. He served in the war of 1812. He was an ardent admirer of Andrew Jackson, and a stanch Democrat. The mother was born in East Tennessee, about 1791, and died at the residence of our subject, four miles north of Ooltewah, in 1858. Both were worthy members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Our subject received a good education in Hamilton County. In 1850 he purchased a farm in what is now James County, upon which he settled the following year. For ten years he engaged exclusively in agricultural pursuits. In 1860 he came to Ooltewah, and, in partnership with E. W. Reagan, established a family grocery. Two years later, on account of the war, he was forced to abandon the mercantile business. With his wife, child, and an orphan whom he was raising, he returned to his farm, and remained there till two years after the war. In 1868 he came back to Ooltewah, and opened a store of general merchandise, in partnership with Elijah and N. A. Fitzgerald. The latter sold out to the other member of the firm. At the organization of James County, in 1871, our subject was elected high sheriff, and served five years. In August, 1886, he was again elected to the same office. He is a true Republican. He is not connected with any church, but is a believer in religion, and is a man of good morals. He began life comparatively poor, but by hard work and energy has accumulated a handsome property. He owns nearly 2,200 acres of land in James and Bradley Counties, the Green Hotel, a business house and dwelling, a half interest in a large flouring mill in Ooltewah, also a half interest in a valuable lot on which is a business house, on King Street, Chattanooga, and three-fifths interest in the Iron Ore and Caolin Mines, in Catoosa County, Ga., six miles north of Dalton. June 5, 1860, he married Miss Rebecca Ferguson, who was born in Grainger County, near Rutledge, about 1829. She died February 8, 1882. This union resulted in one son, Luther, born May 5, 1851, and now a resident of Ooltewah.

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


 Green, William T.          

           Green & Walker, hardware merchants of Chattanooga, established their business August 1, 1886, at their present quarters, 828 Market Street. They carry a large and well selected stock of general hardware and mechanic's tools, and control a large share of the trade in city and county. The individual members are William T. Green, and  Frank M. Walker. Mr. Green was born in Knox County, Tenn., in 1849, and is a son of the late Augustus P. Green of this city, who died in this county in 1878. William Green was reared and educated in Hamilton County. In 1874 he engaged in mercantile pursuits near Memphis, Tenn.; in 1880 returned to Chattanooga, and for four years has been engaged in the hardware business. He has been quite successful in this occupation. He is a Democrat, a Mason, and is one of Chattanooga's reliable businessmen. Frank M. Walker (other member of the firm), was born in Rogersville, Hawkins Co., Tenn., April 3, 1863, and is the son of the late Gen. Frank M. Walker who was killed during the late war. Frank R. Walker, Jr., was educated in Rogersville, and in 1880 came to Chattanooga, where he learned the hardware business with J. R. Warner & Co. In 1886 he engaged in his present business with Mr. Green. June 2,1886, he married Miss Maggie Whitman, of Georgia. Mr. Walker is a Democrat in politics, and is a wide-awake thorough-going business man. Goodspeed's "History of East Tennessee" 1887 


  Griffiths, D. R.           

           D. R. Griffiths, merchant and farmer at Sale Creek, was born in South Wales, November 20, 1834, and came to America in 1864. He first settled in Steubenville, Ohio, but in a short time removed to Shamokin, Penn., and from there to Hubbard, Ohio, in October of the same year. In March, 1868, he came to Sale Creek, where he has since resided. Previous to this, in 1866, he, with nineteen others, then living in Ohio, organized a company to come to East Tennessee and lease some coal mines. They opened up the mines in the same year, and continued very successfully, considering the poor market they had, until 1880, when the company sold out to the present owners. Mr. Griffiths began working in the mines at the early age of seven, and continued this up to 1880. He then opened a store at Sale Creek, and has engaged in this business, in connection with farming, up to the present. He also deals very extensively in tan-bark; and in 1883 they handled $16,000 worth of the same, averaging per year about $5,000. What education Mr. Griffiths has was picked up by the family fireside. He began working for himself at the age of seventeen, and has accumulated considerable property by his own exertions. In 1854 he married Miss Ruth Richards, who was born in January, 1836, and who is the daughter of William and Margaret Richards, of Aberdare, South Wales. To our subject and wife ten children were born, of whom four boys and two girls are now living: William, David, Thomas, Richard, Annie (Mrs. Reese), and Ruth (Mrs. Thompson). Mr. Griffiths is a Republican in politics, and he and wife are members of the Union Church at Sale Creek, although reared Baptists. Goodspeed's "History of East Tennessee" 1887 


 Guild, Joe Conn          

          J. C. Guild, inspector of mines for Tennessee, and a member of the firm of Dickerson & Guild, civil and mining engineers and analytical chemists, is a native of Sumner County, Tenn. He was reared and educated in Nashville, and graduated from Vanderbilt University in 1883. He was in the service of the States as assistant geologist, during which time he collected all the minerals sent to the Southern exposition at Louisville, and also arranged the mineral cabinet for the State at Nashville, and assisted in collecting the specimens for the same. As inspector of mines he makes semi-annual reports to the State commissioner of agricultural statistics, etc., besides many private reports of individual mines. He located in Chattanooga in 1886, and October of the same year married Miss Mary Orr, a native of Nashville. Mr. Guild is a member of the Greek Society, "Beta Theta Pi." He is also grandson of Jo. C. Guild, author of "Old Times in Tennessee." His father, George B. Guild, an able attorney at Nashville, is a native of Nashville, and was a member of the Legislature in 1872, was also formerly county court clerk of Sumner County. The mother's maiden name was Georgie Thompson. The parents are both living, and our subject, two brothers and one sister are the surviving members of a family of five children. Goodspeed's "History of East Tennessee" 1887 


 Guthrie,  Robert Henders           

          ROBERT HENDERSON GUTHRIE was born March 27, 1820 in Cumberland County, Kentucky, and died May 20, 1881 in Harrison, Tennessee. He married MARTHA LAVERT SKILLERN 1841 in Tennessee. She was born in Bledsoe County, Tennessee, and died in Harrison, Tennessee.REVEREND ROBERT HENDERSON GUTHRIE MINISTER AND POLITICAL LEADER IN HAMILTON COUNTY, TENNESSEERobert Henderson Guthrie was a pioneer minister in the Bradley and Hamilton County area of Tennessee, political leader after the War Between the States and a prominent citizen of East Tennessee. Robert entered the ministry of the Methodist Episcopal Church and was licensed as a local preacher in the Methodist Episcopal Church "South" for the Chattanooga circuit. He was licensed on September 23, 1848 by Elder, J. Atkins. This license was renewed on September 08, 1849 and September 06, 1850. At the Holston Conference held at Wythville, Virginia on October 16, 1853 Robert Guthrie was named a Deacon and his license was signed by Bishop, Robert Paine. After 1853 Robert was forced to leave the ministry due to an "affliction of the throat" and did not return to his circuit until 1874. Some of the churches Reverend Guthrie ministered at in Southeast Tennessee were; Cleveland, McDonald Station, Harrison, Marrs' Hill, Liberty, Henniger's Chapel, Lebanon, New Baltimore, Union School House, Old Fort, Zion Hill and Price's School House. During the period of 1874-1875 Robert kept a journal of his travels recording the busy life of a circuit preacher in the nineteenth century. His journal has been preserved by descendants until present and is considered to be an historical treasure. The journal was microfilmed in the latter half of the twentieth century and is now available for public viewing at the Bicentennial Library in Chattanooga. In 1864 Robert Guthrie served as County Court Clerk for Hamilton County which at the time was under Federal military authority. A hasty election was held for the few people "qualified" to vote or hold political office at the time. Reverend Guthrie held this office during the difficult days of reconstruction and continued to serve until 1870. In 1871 he was elected the first County Court Clerk of the newly formed James County, Tennessee. From 1878- 1880 he served as chairman of the James County Court and was Postmaster at Harrison for many years. Robert was also an active member of the Masonic Order in Hamilton County, Tennessee. Before the town of Harrison was flooded by the waters of Chickamauga Lake, his home was considered an historic landmark in the area.EXCERPTS FROM THE ROBERT HENDERSON GUTHRIE JOURNAL 1874-1875*Note: The excerpts are printed as written in the text.Rode 20 miles to John Blackburns... Lodged at Bro. W.H. Weatherbys... a good home. May Gods blessings rest upon that family.Sabbath- I preached 9 1/2 a. m. Price's School House. at 3 p. m. New Salem, at night Marrs Hill - three times on one day.Friday - left home and rode 6 1/2 miles to Ooltewah - took dinner at J.G. Ruston, after rode 3 miles to Bro. Math Hinches. Bro. Hinch got a turnip weighing 6 1/2 lbs., measuring 26 1/2 inches round and firmMarch 1875 I rode 27 miles to Harrison or in sight. The town was covered with water. The Tennessee River was higher than ever known before. But once in 1867 it was 4 feet higher. Commenced falling last night March 4. Today at 11:00 o'clock, my brother Lawson died. How sad I feel.Harrison is a village of 200 inhabitants located on the Tennessee River six and one half miles from Ooltewah, the county seat. It is a good section of farming country and has considerable trade. There are 2 stores, 3 churches, Methodist, Methodist South, and Cumberland Presbyterian, and an excellent high school. The exports are chiefly wheat, corn, and dairy products. Ship to E. T. Virginia and Georgia Railroad at Tyner's Station. Mail semi - weekly. R. H. Guthrie, Postmaster.More About ROBERT HENDERSON GUTHRIE: Burial: Harrison Cemetery Elected: County Court Clerk for Hamilton and James County, Tennessee Organizations: Masonic OrderMore About MARTHA LAVERT SKILLERN: Burial: Harrison Cemetery Children of ROBERT GUTHRIE and MARTHA SKILLERN are:14.i. MARY4 GUTHRIE, b. 1843, Hamilton County, Tennessee; d. Middle Tennessee.ii. ELIZABETH GUTHRIE, b. 1845, Hamilton County, Tennessee; d. 1921, Hamilton County, Tennessee.Notes for ELIZABETH GUTHRIE: Elizabeth Guthrie, daughter of Robert H. and Martha (Skillern) Guthrie, died unmarried at the age of 77 yearsMore About ELIZABETH GUTHRIE: Burial: Harrison Cemetery15.iii. THOMAS J. GUTHRIE, b. March 06, 1847, Hamilton County, Tennessee; d. August 19, 1928, Hamilton County, Tennessee.16.iv. JAMES ATKINS GUTHRIE, b. November 11, 1849, Hamilton County, Tennessee; d. March 24, 1918, Chattanooga, Tennessee.v. ELLEN REBECCA GUTHRIE, b. 1852.Notes for ELLEN REBECCA GUTHRIE: Ellen Rebecca Guthrie died unmarried.vi. WILLIAM BROWNLOW GUTHRIE, b. September 25, 1855, Hamilton County, Tennessee; d. August 06, 1865, Hamilton County, Tennessee.More About WILLIAM BROWNLOW GUTHRIE: Burial: Harrison Cemeteryvii. JOHN L. GUTHRIE, b. October 17, 1858, Hamilton County, Tennessee; d. November 08, 1873, Harrison, Tennessee.More About JOHN L. GUTHRIE: Burial: Harrison Cemetery17.viii. ROBERT H. GUTHRIE JR., b. Abt. 1860, Harrison, Tennessee; d. Chattanooga, Tennessee.Submitted by Scott Guthrie guthries@usit.net 


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