Born in Giles county, Tennessee. Came to Palo Pinto County, 1859, among first settlers in region. Married Jane Allen, July 18, 1860. Served in Co. B, State Troops, during Civil War, protecting frontier. Built this house in mid-1870s. Founded city of Strawn, 1880, to encourage Texas & Pacific Railway company to build through area. He was landowner, rancher, and banker, with interests in local coal mining activities. (1973)