Mr.Mills, I truly enjoyed your series. It was very good reading. Thank You Again, Stephanie Langston

"William A. Mills" wrote: > > Houston County Researchers: > > Over the past 10 days (31 March to 9 April 2000), I have posted 15 > portions of chapters from a book I have been compiling since 1997, > entitled: EYEWITNESS ACCOUNTS OF HOUSTON COUNTY, GEORGIA 1821-1871: > Copyright 2000 by William A. Mills. > > If some of you can recognize any of your ancestors in these chapters, you > may have now seen info that is completely new to you. Even if you can't > recognize any of the names, you now have a greater understanding of what > life was like in the "good old days". The value of this information > extends far beyond the limits of Houston County, GA, as it depicts life > as it was in the South during that time period of the 1820s thru the > Civil War. > > If you have followed thru this entire 15 part series, you can see how > some things never change, but yet so much *has* changed in the last 150+ > years. For those of you who have ever lived in Houston Co., GA, you will > recognize many of the places mentioned therein. > > The majority of these Eyewitness Accounts are readily understandable, but > portions can strain your comprehension. Some of the sentences stretch > into huge, almost paragraph-like dimensions. You will also recognize > vocabulary, cadence & prose not in contemporary usage. > > So ends this series. If any of you have printed this info out for future > reference, it must surely have taken 15 or 20 pages. For those of you > who haven't gleaned any benefit from this series, I apologize for keeping > your email boxes filled. > > Take care, and happy hunting! > > _______________________________________ > William A. Mills > Perry, GA > [email protected] > Houston Co., GA Publications & Research Webpage: > http://www.geocities.com/ResearchTriangle/Forum/8795 > > ________________________________________________________________ > YOU'RE PAYING TOO MUCH FOR THE INTERNET! > Juno now offers FREE Internet Access! > Try it today - there's no risk! For your FREE software, visit: > http://dl.www.juno.com/get/tagj. Thank you, Bill, for all your time. The series was very enjoyable! Susan H.

Billy this is wonderful Thank You very much for sharing all this with us. Sandra >Houston County Researchers: > >Over the past 10 days (31 March to 9 April 2000), I have posted 15 >portions of chapters from a book I have been compiling since 1997, >entitled: EYEWITNESS ACCOUNTS OF HOUSTON COUNTY, GEORGIA 1821-1871: >Copyright 2000 by William A. Mills. > >If some of you can recognize any of your ancestors in these chapters, you >may have now seen info that is completely new to you. Even if you can't >recognize any of the names, you now have a greater understanding of what >life was like in the "good old days". The value of this information >extends far beyond the limits of Houston County, GA, as it depicts life >as it was in the South during that time period of the 1820s thru the >Civil War. > >If you have followed thru this entire 15 part series, you can see how >some things never change, but yet so much *has* changed in the last 150+ >years. For those of you who have ever lived in Houston Co., GA, you will >recognize many of the places mentioned therein. > >The majority of these Eyewitness Accounts are readily understandable, but >portions can strain your comprehension. Some of the sentences stretch >into huge, almost paragraph-like dimensions. You will also recognize >vocabulary, cadence & prose not in contemporary usage. > >So ends this series. If any of you have printed this info out for future >reference, it must surely have taken 15 or 20 pages. For those of you >who haven't gleaned any benefit from this series, I apologize for keeping >your email boxes filled. > >Take care, and happy hunting! > >_______________________________________ >William A. Mills >Perry, GA >[email protected] >Houston Co., GA Publications & Research Webpage: >http://www.geocities.com/ResearchTriangle/Forum/8795 > >________________________________________________________________ >YOU'RE PAYING TOO MUCH FOR THE INTERNET! >Juno now offers FREE Internet Access! >Try it today - there's no risk! For your FREE software, visit: >http://dl.www.juno.com/get/tagj.

Hi Gaila, Twiggs is called a burned county because the courthouse burned and all the records were lost. In fact, it is a "twice burned" county. However, there are records of the county that have been put together from other sources. One book is ABSTRACTS OF SOME DOCUMENTS OF TWIGGS COUNTY, GEORGIA, compiled by Eleanor McSwain, 1972, which contains many deed records, tax records, entries from a Merchant's Day Book (a merchant's records of customers' transactions with his Mercantile Store), a few wills and estate records, etc. Also, SIFTING THROUGH THE ASHES, by Eleanor Davis McSwain, 1989. Another source for Twiggs County "news" is GENEALOGY ABSTRACTS FROM THE GEORGIA JOURNAL (several volumes) by F.R. and E.K. Hartz. HISTORY OF STONE CREEK BAPTIST CHURCH by Billy Walker Jones, Dec. 1961 lists members and people buried in the cemetery. TWIGGS COUNTY, GEORGIA ABSTRACTS, RECORDS OF A BURNED COUNTY by Bess Vaughn Clark. Mrs. Clark has another book of records of Twiggs County that she has compiled that has just been published. I have researched Twiggs County for my Reynolds and Chappell roots and found a good bit of information, despite the fact that it is a burned county. Hope this helps some. Joyce Harrison, Macon, GA ----- Original Message ----- From: Gaila & Jim Merrington <[email protected]> To: <[email protected]> Sent: Sunday, April 09, 2000 5:19 PM Subject: [GAHOUSTO] Researching around Houston County > Hello everyone, > > I believe I might find some information in Twiggs County. Has anyone else > done any research there? > Billy, I know it is a "burned county" - what exactly does that mean re: > genealogy research? > > Has anyone else researched in Twiggs or Jones and has any pointers? > Gaila > >

> There were two other teachers who were unfit for the position. One of them cruelly whipped the best boy in school, after his sister testified, and the whole school believed he was innocent of the charges against him. He rashly bumped my own against a classmate's head, leaving us with severe headaches the balance of the day. We were both innocent, and one word of enquiry would have satisfied him of it, if he had had any discretion or reason. > > While mine and my classmate's heads were aching, they were eased somewhat > by Mr. Wood's attempting to lean his chair against the end of a bench, > and missing it, fell, his head striking the floor. We rejoiced at it, > silently though. Who was this Mr. Woods? I am related to Woods that lived in Houston/Jones area.

Houston County Researchers: Over the past 10 days (31 March to 9 April 2000), I have posted 15 portions of chapters from a book I have been compiling since 1997, entitled: EYEWITNESS ACCOUNTS OF HOUSTON COUNTY, GEORGIA 1821-1871: Copyright 2000 by William A. Mills. If some of you can recognize any of your ancestors in these chapters, you may have now seen info that is completely new to you. Even if you can't recognize any of the names, you now have a greater understanding of what life was like in the "good old days". The value of this information extends far beyond the limits of Houston County, GA, as it depicts life as it was in the South during that time period of the 1820s thru the Civil War. If you have followed thru this entire 15 part series, you can see how some things never change, but yet so much *has* changed in the last 150+ years. For those of you who have ever lived in Houston Co., GA, you will recognize many of the places mentioned therein. The majority of these Eyewitness Accounts are readily understandable, but portions can strain your comprehension. Some of the sentences stretch into huge, almost paragraph-like dimensions. You will also recognize vocabulary, cadence & prose not in contemporary usage. So ends this series. If any of you have printed this info out for future reference, it must surely have taken 15 or 20 pages. For those of you who haven't gleaned any benefit from this series, I apologize for keeping your email boxes filled. Take care, and happy hunting! _______________________________________ William A. Mills Perry, GA [email protected] Houston Co., GA Publications & Research Webpage: http://www.geocities.com/ResearchTriangle/Forum/8795 ________________________________________________________________ YOU'RE PAYING TOO MUCH FOR THE INTERNET! Juno now offers FREE Internet Access! Try it today - there's no risk! For your FREE software, visit: http://dl.www.juno.com/get/tagj.

>> Who was this Mr. Woods? I am related to Woods that lived in Houston/Jones area. << *Igdeliah Woods*. ================>>> On Sun, 9 Apr 2000 20:02:03 -0700 "D. Sjoberg" <[email protected]> writes: >> There were two other teachers who were unfit for the position. One of them cruelly whipped the best boy in school, after his sister testified, and the whole school believed he was innocent of the charges against him. He rashly bumped my own against a classmate's head, leaving us with severe headaches the balance of the day. We were both innocent, and one word of enquiry would have satisfied him of it, if he had had any discretion or reason. >> While mine and my classmate's heads were aching, they were eased somewhat by Mr. Wood's attempting to lean his chair against the end of a bench, and missing it, fell, his head striking the floor. We rejoiced at it, silently though. Who was this Mr. Woods? I am related to Woods that lived in Houston/Jones area. ________________________________________________________________ YOU'RE PAYING TOO MUCH FOR THE INTERNET! Juno now offers FREE Internet Access! Try it today - there's no risk! For your FREE software, visit: http://dl.www.juno.com/get/tagj.

Houston County Researchers: For the past 3 years, I have been compiling a book entitled: EYEWITNESS ACCOUNTS OF HOUSTON COUNTY, GEORGIA 1821-1871: Copyright 2000 by William A. Mills. I thought I had this book finished last year, but I keep finding more interesting items to include in it. By the time that I actually print this book, it may be too large to contain in one volume. But, there is no need to keep all of this good info hidden away. I stumbled across an original story written by a man who was born in 1826, and resided in Perry, GA for several decades. This story was supposed to be published right after the Civil War, but I cannot find any evidence that it ever was. I've checked everywhere that I can, and no one has ever heard of it before. ================>>> Portions from Chapter 15: I can never forget the first boy-drunk in town, and the excitement caused by it; poor. He was persuaded by the enemy that he wasn't a boy any longer, and forgot that he had just entered his teens. Would it benefit any one for me to tell what spiritous liquors did for others of my early associates? If so, I would here and now endure most willingly the pain of recording it all with the lamentable results to each of them; but alas!, alas! the past and present strewn with slain husbands, fathers, brothers and friends is an old song, and the voice of warning is too faintly heard amid the increasing din and rage of the deadly onslaught upon those who are to possess and rule when we are gone, and why? Why? Let those of us who have children, ponder the question, and allow the only truthful answer to urge and nerve us on to open hostility and never-ceasing combat against this formidable and insatiate slaver of our best hopes. Another of my schoolmates was about being arrested by the sheriff with a warrant for misconduct in the Methodist church during Divine service. He hastily hunted up the trustee who procured the warrant, acknowledged his error, and promised never to be guilty of it again; whereupon, an estopal was ordered, and there was no disturbance in either of the churches for a long time afterwards. Query: how many boys and girls now know that there is a punative civil law against growing evil? And if they are all ignorant of the fact, who is to blame for it? A humble mound in our [Evergreen] Cemetery marks the resting place of Nancy Gray. She was a cripple and died when young. We missed her from school. She often led us in our plays and romps, and very many hours of high glee and joyous, merry pastime are remembered as we ran and skipped to keep ever with her. Another, whose name I cannot recall now, was homely until pretty. All of us loved her because she was good and contributed so much to our enjoyment, often calling us up and reading or relating to us a pleasing story. From her, I first heard the story of "Little Red Riding Hood" and "Cock Robin". I have never seen or heard from her since she left school, and hope she is, if in life, happy as when I knew her. Julia, Jennie and myself composed a grammar class. Jennie was head, my gallantry placed me foot, and just that one time, I wished there was no such word, or that I could ignore it then. But it wouldn't, and I had to endure the "cut off" (as we would say then) as best I could. I wanted to stand by the side of Jennie, you see. Well, Julia was not dull, but deliberate, and Jennie was quick. We were reciting the variations of irregular verbs. "Think" came to Julia. Jennie whispered in her ear, "present think, imperfect thunk, perfect participle thunked", responded Julia with emphasis. "Why, Julia!" said the teacher, looking over his spectacles. "Well, Mr. H., Jennie told me that was it". Jennie confessed, and the risibles of the master were so affected by the sell, that he administered only a mild rebuke, and "think, thunk, thunked" passed into frequent use at times and on occasions, whether apropos or not. There were two Matildas, two Harriets, two Susans, two Julias, two Lizzies, half a dozen Sallies, a dozen Marys, Rebecca, Caroline, Flora, Martha, Margaret, Ann, Jennie and others. Years afterward, I passed a bevy of beautiful girls on the side walk, and remarked to my old bachelor friend H., who was with me, "that was the prettiest bouquet of flowers I had ever seen", but was mistaken. These school girls, who were nearly all my class-mates, especially the two blue-eyed Lizzies, one Sallie, and beautiful, brown-eyed Jennie, all in home-spun and calico dresses, blue checked aprons, split bonnets, home-knit gloves, with their flowing, natural dresses and fairy forms, with whom we romped, roamed the wild, wild woods for angelico and flowers, gathered around Fanny Gresham. We went to see old Mrs. McLean to have our fortunes told, angled in the Big Indian and Fanny Gresham, fished for love, played and sung "old sister Phoeba", "Thimble", etc., the nectar of whose ruby lips we sometimes tasted, and were as particular about and thankful for as was the Scotch preacher who, after his intended agreed to a kiss, asked a blessing, and after taking it, returned thanks. These charmed me most, and the memory of them will continue a perpetual momento to the end of life. I never attended any but a mixed school, and while I endorse separate schools for the sexes now, and believe they should be continued, as a rule. Yet, if we could get back to those "good old days", be what our fathers and mothers were in theory and practice, and children could be kept children until they were grown, "mixed schools and no others" would be our motto. Alas, that a mistaken policy, the evils of which cannot now be corrected, forces us to adhere to an objectionable system by which the proper training of our children is to be attained. Male and female schools are not, by far, the only objectionable facts in the long catalogue of modern improvement and progress, so-called. The circles around the maelstrom which threatens the destruction of the present rising generation, have thickened and increased until warnings given is seldom heeded, and our faithful pastors even may not rebuke without the risk of exposing, calling to ridicule, and their master's servants to open contempt and insult. There is no discount upon my first recollections of Fort Valley and her first citizens, among whom were: Rev. Enos Young, Rev. George W. Persons, Allen Wiggins, Dr. Hollingshead, Reuben H. Slappey, the Andersons and Kendricks, and others whose names I cannot now recall. When a boy, I thought I could tell a Fort Valleyan by looking at him; mainly because they were temperate, seemed well to do, and best of all pious, carrying with them on all occasions, the distinctive characteristics of the Methodists of that time. They had a manual labor school, of which a great deal was said. Knowing very little about it, I can give no satisfactory account of it origin, workings and failure, if failure it was. Over thirty years ago [1830s], there was a grand Fourth of July celebration there, all of the particulars of which I have forgotten except that the programme was announced by Reuben Slappey, Marshal of the day, from the portico, the forming of the procession in front of the Planter's Hotel, and a dangerous fall from my horse, which scared worse than it hurt me. From quite a village, Fort Valley has risen to the importance of a thriving, growing railroad town, has a bank, and 'ere long, will be a city. Perry is to have a railroad also, and it will cost time, money and vim to catch up and keep even with her younger sister, especially if the latter becomes the capital of a "new county that has no bridges in it". We want Fort Valley, and also Henderson, Hayneville and Wellborn's Mills, all to remain with us and have railroads too, so that "dear old Houston" may rise from her now humiliated and impoverished condition [prior to the Reconstruction Period after the Civil War], to her former self. And we hope soon to know that "Ephraim ceases to envy Judah, and that Judah does not vex Ephraim", that we are blessed with peace and prosperity in all our borders. So mote it be. In conclusion: any errors in the compilation of these reminiscences are attributable to my inexperience in writing, and other difficulties beyond my control. Very many things are purposely omitted; others from necessity. While there are also others I would forget, I cannot say with the poet: "I never plucked a fragrant rose, Whose colors glowed with crimson fire; But to increase my many woes, I took with it the pointed briar." And wish that the realities of the present and to come, would allow me to linger where memory leads, where heart memories, sweet jewels of the soul, are thick as early dew drops, which, although now tinged with the golden mellow line of life's declining sunbeams, throw their beauties beyond into the silvery morning sheen of a better, brighter day. ~~ END OF SERIES ~~ _______________________________________ William A. Mills Perry, GA [email protected] ________________________________________________________________ YOU'RE PAYING TOO MUCH FOR THE INTERNET! Juno now offers FREE Internet Access! Try it today - there's no risk! For your FREE software, visit: http://dl.www.juno.com/get/tagj.

Houston County Researchers: For the past 3 years, I have been compiling a book entitled: EYEWITNESS ACCOUNTS OF HOUSTON COUNTY, GEORGIA 1821-1871: Copyright 2000 by William A. Mills. I thought I had this book finished last year, but I keep finding more interesting items to include in it. By the time that I actually print this book, it may be too large to contain in one volume. But, there is no need to keep all of this good info hidden away. I stumbled across an original story written by a man who was born in 1826, and resided in Perry, GA for several decades. This story was supposed to be published right after the Civil War, but I cannot find any evidence that it ever was. I've checked everywhere that I can, and no one has ever heard of it before. ================>>> Portions from Chapter 14: "In my poor mind it is most sweet to muse upon the days gone by; To act in thought, past seasons o'er, and be again a child." Time and space will not allow me to speak of all my school and classmates. John Smith graduated before I entered, and I am therefore ignorant of his characteristics as a school boy. He, doubtless, like those who succeeded him, had his "tiranglements". Among those over whom my first teachers wielded the rule and the rod, were: Bill Brown, Bill Royal, John Gardner, Calvin W. Felder, Tom Salter, Smith Davenport, Guilford West, John Laidler Jr., and Alden Hall, who were nearly and quite grown. Of those nearer my own age and size: Jackson Pattishall, Eph. Mann, Hick Oliver, Alcimus Allen, John C. Staley, Ed Felder and Barsh Felder, Sanders D. (Rooks) Outlaw, Fort Morgan, Seab Reese, Seab Engram and Dick Engram, Thea Nichols and Bill Nichols, Ike Kent, John Chain, John Mott Dunn, John Guerry, Bill Guerry, and Canada Guerry, Abb Knight, Joshua Payne, Gus Whitehurst, James A. Spivey, Sam McLean, George Scott, and others. Alden Hall had no fingers, and never shut his eyes or mouth. His ingenuity and skill in the use of his fingerless hands was remarkable. Being accomodating, cheerful and witty, he was a favorite, learned rapidly, and upon leaving school, was elected and served as bailiff of the town district. The perquisites of his office, and what he made by repairing clocks, yielded him a support. Sam McLean contended with the master, that if the world turned over, the water would spill out of the ponds and the crockery fall off the shelves. He once administered by (snuffing and inhalation) a dose of Scotch snuff to a school mate, who is now a member of one of the leading business firms in Savannah, and he, doubtless, remembers the effects of it until now. Why Sam was not punished for that, I never knew; perhaps Jo was as much to blame as was Sam. Gus Whitehurst got along smoothly with all his studies but geography. He could not remember from one recitation to the next, the direction of north, south, east and west. Cain Guerry was a fighter until Bill Nichols gave him a very severe thrashing. Fort Morgan was an expert in getting up mischief and avoid the penalty. He was a graceful speaker, and the "ladies' man" of the school. Fort, Sanders, Hick and Jack were chronic cases; and the master's only remedy being the rod and rule, it was administered in large doses frequently, especially by Igdeliah Wood. Dunn Guerry was the best boy I ever saw, unsuspecting, easy and good, if possible, to a fault. He was once punished unmercifully by a teacher for an offense perpetrated by some bad boys who managed to shirk out of it by falsely accusing and proving that he did it. Dunn's affection for his sister, and scupulous obedience to his parents, were prominent. And his usefulness and prosperity since then, up to the time I received his last friendly greeting, and doubtless until now, and during life, is and will be the fulfillment of the promise to all who honor father and mother as he did. Although true, it is painful to remember the sad fate of some whose failure to obey "the first commandment with promise", and their non-attention to their sisters, were as marked and as noticeable as was Dunn's obedience and attention. John Laidler poked fun at and teased our crowd, and on one occasion, we rallied our whole force (about 40) armed with strings and determined to hamper him. "At him boys!" was our captain's command, and at him we went gallantly and with a shout, but were repulsed. A second and third onslaught were followed with the same result. Desks, chairs, benches, books, slates and urchins were hurled and scattered in every direction, and for the simple and only reason that we were obliged to, we proclaimed him victor and master of the field. Our code of honor required that, and we adhered to it. We had a show (a circus) in the woods nearby; had a first-rate clown; Hick Oliver was ring master, Ike Kent door-keeper, and Alcimus Allen, Canada Guerry, Bill Nichols and Sanders Outlaw were the riders; price of admission, two buttons, children half-price. Just as this show proved a success, the master caught us in the midst of a performance and added an afterpiece which killed it. Strong efforts to revive it proved a failure, and we fell back on shinny, which, with town ball, cat, leap frog, racing and jumping, were our principal games and amusement. The only style of our coats was the roundabout. We wore only osnaburgs and domestics, wool and palm leaf hats, russet brogans and stitch downs in winter, and went barefoot in summer. No departure in quality of goods or style was admissible. We wanted store-bought clothes and gallouses (suspenders), but couldn't get 'em, and therefore, being in the majority, we resolved our crowd into a kind of aristocracy, and determined that we would allow no infringement of our inalienable right to wear osnaburgs and round coats made of home-made good. Innovators were toled to the old clay hole, and its contents applied freely to them, or in some other way, we compelled them to leave, come to terms, or stand off. Ab Knight strutted up one morning with a new suit made of bed ticking. We lifted him forthwith, and that night, his papa came practically to the conclusion that it was economy for Ab to wear home-made truck to school, and save his fine (?) clothes for Sunday. Fort Morgan wore a frock broadcloth coat once, and the master saved us the trouble of disposing of that turnout, by riddling it with his hickory. A silk stove pipe hat appeared, and we joked and laughed it off the fellow's head and out of sight, in short order. Eph Mann wore a wide stock with ear-lifters, and old man Quinn made a single remark about it, when Eph's collar wilted and stocks fell. The first pair of boots had red tops; the owner took offense at a number of us for trying 'em on in a corner, just to see how "young America" felt with boots on, that was all. And we had to let 'em alone, and did. After a while, "go it boots" would ring out every now and then, and there was no proving who did it; brogans and stitch downs whipped that fight shortly. Our games were played just in front of the academy, and witnessed by the girls from the door and windows. They were often quite exciting, and when a well-contested game ended, a throwing up of hats, a hearty "three times there" rang out from the victorious party, and their sympathizers who were lookers on, and the girls waved their white bonnets and handkerchiefs from the door and windows. Bill Guerry and Jackson Pattishall wrestled, Fort Morgan and Hick Oliver ran a race, Jackson and Fort were victorious. And the honors conferred upon the young Corsican immediately after his first victory in the streets of Paris, nor those of proud England paid to her coming Iron Duke when he first triumphed at Soringgapatam, were not more grateful than were the honors won by those boys. Jennie's and Julia's smiles and bouquets thrilled them. Seated by them, they were richer than the Rothschilds and felt more highly honored, doubtless, than Albert did when he first sat by his royal bride, or Clovis by the side of his beautiful Clotilda. Their imagined future, too, skirted with evergreens, dotted with sparkling fountains, strewn with flowers, and arched with domes and spires of magnificent air castles, can be better imagined than described. Listen, ye boys and girls who are now where Jennie, Julia, Fort and Jackson were. Their love scrapes and vows were not sealed as they desired and intended them (at the altar). For their school days soon ended, they separated, and their future experience practically contradicted what is said to be the language of true hearts in the last, and verified the truth of the first lines of the following familiar quotation: " 'Tis said that absence conquers love, But oh! believe it not." The next chapter will, for the present, at least, conclude these reminiscences. ~~ TO BE CONTINUED ~~ _______________________________________ William A. Mills Perry, GA [email protected] ________________________________________________________________ YOU'RE PAYING TOO MUCH FOR THE INTERNET! Juno now offers FREE Internet Access! Try it today - there's no risk! For your FREE software, visit: http://dl.www.juno.com/get/tagj.

Houston County Researchers: For the past 3 years, I have been compiling a book entitled: EYEWITNESS ACCOUNTS OF HOUSTON COUNTY, GEORGIA 1821-1871: Copyright 2000 by William A. Mills. I thought I had this book finished last year, but I keep finding more interesting items to include in it. By the time that I actually print this book, it may be too large to contain in one volume. But, there is no need to keep all of this good info hidden away. I stumbled across an original story written by a man who was born in 1826, and resided in Perry, GA for several decades. This story was supposed to be published right after the Civil War, but I cannot find any evidence that it ever was. I've checked everywhere that I can, and no one has ever heard of it before. ================>>> Portions from Chapter 13: My first school teacher (master as we then styled them) was Michael E. Madden, an Irishman. He was excitable to eccentricity, and impulsive, but his good stock of sound, common sense improved by a fair education and long experience, with his genuine Irish humor, kindness and leniency made him a good teacher. We thought differently then, but experience and a sober consideration of his surroundings causes a wonder now, that he was not really hard and exacting. His was a mixed, and also a loud school, and the number of hard cases (among the boys, of course) predominated over, and was largely in excess of the docile and law-abiding. At one time, upon his refusal of a request from the former for vacation, they caught and hampered the old man. As he lay bound hand and foot, the request was repeated and again refused. He was then taken to the branch, laid down by the stream, and the request again repeated, with notice that if he again refused, they would duck, and then roll him in the mud and leave him there. He again refused, and as they were about to heave him into the water, he cried out lustily, "vacation! yes, vacation boys!" Whereupon, they relented and loosed him, all hands returning to the academy and to town, good humoredly telling all about it. This old custom was never again repeated here, but was seriously intended once afterward when Leonidas King was teaching. He, hearing of it before the preliminaries were perfected (how we never could ascertain) told us of it, and showed fight. He was said to be half Indian, and knowing his pluck, and learning also that he would be backed by the trustees, the movement was abandoned, and wisely too. There were two other teachers who were unfit for the position. They were excitable, rash and cruel, and on that account, should have been discharged by the trustees. One of them cruelly whipped the best boy in school, after his sister testified, and the whole school believed he was innocent of the charges against him. He rashly bumped my own against a classmate's head, leaving us with severe headaches the balance of the day. We were both innocent, and one word of enquiry would have satisfied him of it, if he had had any discretion or reason. The other punished a small boy so severely that he was bedridden for a week, and in one of his mad fits, he attempted to punish a young man, Tom Salter, when, as we used to say "he caught it". While the rod was coming down Tom's fist, slates and inkstands returned the compliment. Tom finally drew his knife, and Mr. Daugherty retreated, and Tom was allowed to gather his books and retire. While mine and my classmate's heads were aching, they were eased somewhat by Mr. Wood's attempting to lean his chair against the end of a bench, and missing it, fell, his head striking the floor. We rejoiced at it, silently though. These are a few only, of a thousand instances of their cruelty and rashness, and some of us now feel as we did then, indignant, and are at a loss to know why trustees and patrons allowed it. Notwithstanding the severity of the ordeal, it was not without an occasional item which provoked merriment and even pleasure. For instance: a girl was about to be punished by one of these cruel masters, and her sweetheart (there were no substitutes for that word then) knowing that it would be severe, proposed to take it himself. He was allowed the privilege (?), and came out of it, about the best whipped chap I ever saw. In language common then, "it was not only a stinging one, but a scorcher", and we have often laughed at darned and patched jackets and pants cut by the whip. These schools were considered letter A, No. 1. The (shall I say it) curriculum was thorough. Spelling, reading, writing, English grammar, arithmetic, geography and history were taught, not superficially but thoroughly. When we laid aside Webster's spelling book for an advance, we knew it from A to Z, and were subjected to the same rule through the whole course. By the way, our friend, Col. Killen, has now a genuine copy of the edition of Webster's spelling book in use then. Without any help, we were compelled to plod along through Murray, Smiley, Dayball, Hale and Olney. And if the rule and rod failed to elicit good lessons and enforce obedience to all the rules, the master appealed to the board of trustees, and their decision, which was a turning over of the offender to the tender mercies of the master, or expulsion, was finale. And its sequence: submission or "getting out of the jurisdiction" was the result. Speeches by the little ones, were such as "You'd scarce expect one of my age", "Casabiance", "The Battle of Hohenlinden", "Alexander Selkirk", etc. The older ones selecting from English, Irish and American authors and orators, the delivery of which, were not under the strain of erroneously conceived rules or undue attention to the cultivated and acquired requisions of oratory; neither were they imitative, but natural and easy, so that each speaker was true to his natural gifts, and therefore, distinctive. I am of the opinion until yet, that in point of true oratory, they excelled the school boys of the present day. Bill Brown, one of the larger, and Fort Morgan, of the smaller boys, were "first best" as we would say then, having several on hand all the time. They were often called up by request of the girls, and as often, responded with one each of their best. Just now, I remember that Bill was once called up by the master to headquarters, and his reason for non-appearance when school took in, demanded. He replied that "he had a pocketful", at the same time, drawing a handful of reasons (raisins) therefrom and exhibiting them, whereupon he was ordered to his seat, with notice that he would not be allowed to repeat that with impunity. ~~ TO BE CONTINUED ~~ _______________________________________ William A. Mills Perry, GA [email protected] ________________________________________________________________ YOU'RE PAYING TOO MUCH FOR THE INTERNET! Juno now offers FREE Internet Access! Try it today - there's no risk! For your FREE software, visit: http://dl.www.juno.com/get/tagj.

Hello everyone, I believe I might find some information in Twiggs County. Has anyone else done any research there? Billy, I know it is a "burned county" - what exactly does that mean re: genealogy research? Has anyone else researched in Twiggs or Jones and has any pointers? Gaila

Houston County Researchers: For the past 3 years, I have been compiling a book entitled: EYEWITNESS ACCOUNTS OF HOUSTON COUNTY, GEORGIA 1821-1871: Copyright 2000 by William A. Mills. I thought I had this book finished last year, but I keep finding more interesting items to include in it. By the time that I actually print this book, it may be too large to contain in one volume. But, there is no need to keep all of this good info hidden away. I stumbled across an original story written by a man who was born in 1826, and resided in Perry, GA for several decades. This story was supposed to be published right after the Civil War, but I cannot find any evidence that it ever was. I've checked everywhere that I can, and no one has ever heard of it before. ================>>> Portions from Chapter 12: On a beautiful, bright Sabbath day in May 1828, the Sabbath-school, still in existence and prospering in the M. E. Church, was organized. John Chain and Col. Cobb were the leading spirits and originators of that cause for our community. Of its importance and value to the moral and religious interest of society and to individuals, no one can form any just estimate. Years afterward, the Sabbath-school in the Baptist Church was organized and is yet prosperous, dispensing its blessings now as it has done since it was instituted. Many who are yet living, remember the beauty of that May Sabbath and the large assembly present at the old academy to witness the opening of our first school. The house was crowded, the windows and doors full, and many were outside who could not get in to witness or take part in the exercises. Many things might be said in reference to its first organism and the interest first manifested by all as compared with its present features in these respects. I desist, however, for reasons not necessary for me to mention here. For several years past, but two of its original members, whose names remained on the roll, were living. Last year, one of them, whose loss to the school can never be overestimated, ended her bright, useful career, leaving for our encouragement and example, a record which we hope never to forget or fail to imitate, trusting that our departure may be like hers, triumphant; and that "she being dead yet speak, speaketh" may be true of us. One other scene: a Baptist meeting held in the Methodist Church, the large crowds present, and the ministers, one of whom wore a suit resembling very much the Continental costume, with his white hair down on his shoulders, reminded me of the picture I had seen of William Penn as he is represented in conference with the Indians under the large oak at Philadelphia. During this meeting, I was impressed with the plain, simple dress and manners of those who attended from a distance, indicating clearly that their attendance was prompted by the desire to be benefitted, and they were not disappointed. The ministers of every denomination, in their dress, conformed strictly to the simple, primitive styles peculiar to each and their people (who, although not as exacting as the good old man who tried in every way to compel Bishop Bascom to adopt his notions of the proper dress for a preacher) were plain and economical themselves, and "loved to have it so". Their ministers "were of them", on a level with, neither above or beneath them. They were deficient in one respect, but in that, not unlike the membership of the churches in the present day, namely: the material support of their pastors, which is their due. But enough, for perhaps I have already said too much here, as this subject is considered by some, not the business of manuscripts. I saw only a few days, since at his post, Uncle Samuel Anthony. He appeared the same in every particular, as he did when I first saw him forty years ago, perhaps. He still lives a consistent, faithful and efficient representative of his church. While I looked at him, I remembered a remark made by someone not long since, that "he was the only remaining link between his school church of the present day, and that of former days, upon which Ichabod was written", and thought the one who said it, did not have his eyes half open, for while it is true that there is no man who has more friends and fewer enemies, who lies nearer the heart of the masses and more faithfully represents the former glory of the church he has served so long and well. There are now, and we predict there will be until the closing up of the Christian system, others whose lives will warrant the opinion that, upon the churches belonging to, and which are integral and essential parts of, it will never be written "the former glory has departed", never! Again, memory goes back and is wont to linger around and speak of individuals whom we were taught to respect and revere, whose portraits are still lifelike, their kindnesses sensibly felt, and even now, the distinctive tone of their voices fall upon our ears, but I must away. Memory, oh, memory! thou mysterious reminder of the sweet and bitter past, drive not away these departed loved and honored friends of my youth, nor erase from your faithful record, their admonitions and encouragements, for we would not if we could, forget them here, and trust that at our anticipated re-union, their society and their benefits may increase and heighten our joy forever. ~~ TO BE CONTINUED ~~ _______________________________________ William A. Mills Perry, GA [email protected] ________________________________________________________________ YOU'RE PAYING TOO MUCH FOR THE INTERNET! Juno now offers FREE Internet Access! Try it today - there's no risk! For your FREE software, visit: http://dl.www.juno.com/get/tagj.

Houston County Researchers: For the past 3 years, I have been compiling a book entitled: EYEWITNESS ACCOUNTS OF HOUSTON COUNTY, GEORGIA 1821-1871: Copyright 2000 by William A. Mills. I thought I had this book finished last year, but I keep finding more interesting items to include in it. By the time that I actually print this book, it may be too large to contain in one volume. But, there is no need to keep all of this good info hidden away. I stumbled across an original story written by a man who was born in 1826, and resided in Perry, GA for several decades. This story was supposed to be published right after the Civil War, but I cannot find any evidence that it ever was. I've checked everywhere that I can, and no one has ever heard of it before. ================>>> Portions from Chapter 11: "Woman! blest partner of our joys and woes! Even in the darkest hour of earthly ill, Untarnished yet thy fond affection grows, Throbs with each pulse and beats with ever thrill! Bright o'er the wasted scene thou hoverest still, Angel of comfort to the failing soul!" Distrusting my ability to pay a fitting tribute to the memory of that class of the friends of my childhood and youth, who were the wives of Houston's first settlers and the mothers of my early associates and companions, I have hesitated until now to speak of them. Eulogistic encamiums and written cenotaphs are proper when not extravagant, and unsatisfactory when they fail to express "heart memories", and these cannot be written. We are wont to boast of an elevated standard of morality and Chritianity in our community, and who can estimate how much of these refining elements is the product or result of the piety and devotion of these genuine companions and matrons of the olden time. They have passed away; being dead, yet their voices are heard, their impress is seen around us, and not until time is over can the aggregate of stars in their crowns be counted. The names of Aunt C., as we learned to call her, Mrs. D., Mrs. H., Mrs. R., Mrs. K., Mrs. O., Mrs. M., and many others, can never be forgotten while memory lives and the heart beats warm. Their kindnesses, reproofs and admonitions, as time moves and age comes on, are remembered more vividly and prized more highly. Contemporary with these pure and good, true in all that elevates, dignifies and adorns female character, was one of Irish extraction who knew and loved me first and best; nourished and blessed me in helpless infancy; sympathized, encouraged and reproved me in youth, and in riper years, at her side kneeling, I first felt there was another life. She was my mother. There was one other of precious memory, who was young and of whose early and lasting affection I was the favored recipient. "On these dear jewels of my memory My heart will ever dwell, and fate in vain, Possessing that, essay to make me wretched." Although they sleep beneath the sod, the pulsations of their warm, loving hearts, sweet voices and soft blue eyes which followed me in the past, are yet felt, heard and seen. These now silent and yet audible monitions still linger in and around my heart, the brightest and best of all earth's cherished memories. Without these, the past would be a blank, the present and the future dark, and other sweet memories with still sweeter anticipation, things of beauty then and now and will be joys forever, never would have been mine. Ah! we have said with deepest anguish, farewell! But not forever, for we shall meet again. ~~ TO BE CONTINUED ~~ _______________________________________ William A. Mills Perry, GA [email protected] ________________________________________________________________ YOU'RE PAYING TOO MUCH FOR THE INTERNET! Juno now offers FREE Internet Access! Try it today - there's no risk! For your FREE software, visit: http://dl.www.juno.com/get/tagj.

Houston County Researchers: For the past 3 years, I have been compiling a book entitled: EYEWITNESS ACCOUNTS OF HOUSTON COUNTY, GEORGIA 1821-1871: Copyright 2000 by William A. Mills. I thought I had this book finished last year, but I keep finding more interesting items to include in it. By the time that I actually print this book, it may be too large to contain in one volume. But, there is no need to keep all of this good info hidden away. I stumbled across an original story written by a man who was born in 1826, and resided in Perry, GA for several decades. This story was supposed to be published right after the Civil War, but I cannot find any evidence that it ever was. I've checked everywhere that I can, and no one has ever heard of it before. ================>>> Portions from Chapter 10: Indian relicts consisting of a tomahawk and an earthen pot, found deeply imbedded in the sand near the Perry bridge, and the innumerable flint arrow points scattered along the water courses, confirm the opinion that this immediate section was one of the hunting and fishing grounds of the Creek Indians. Their removal to the Chattahoochee was a very great relief to us all, as we were in constant dread of them, they having given intimations of disaffection and intended hostility. Soon after their departure, war was declared, and in 1836, a cavalry company left Perry for a campaign of three months, under the command of Capt. Hugh L. Dennard, with Hal Raleigh 1st, Merideth Joiner 2d, James Owens, 3d Lieutenants, and James Johnson, Orderly Sergeant. John M. Allen had previously left Houston with his company of volunteers, for the seat of war with the Seminoles in Florida. Roll of these companies are not now in reach, and besides those mentioned, I remember only the lamented Jared S. Dennard of Captain Allen's, and J. W. Mann, J. M. Chastain, B. Batton, G. S. Haslem, P. N. Chain, C. W. Felder, Terrell Perry, George W. Slappy and J. Black, of Captain Dennard's company, which returned after its term of service expired, having lost but one man. The commissariat of the forces drew its supplies from Hawkinsville by road wagons, large numbers of which loaded to their utmost capacity with bacon, flour etc., passed in companies through Perry. That splendidly mounted company, the Pulaski Volunteers passed here also, its fine martial appearance and the clear thrilling notes of its bugle charmed us. The contrast between this command and a stream of men, horses, mules and wagons, apparently a disorganized and demoralized rabble, said to be volunteers for the war against the Seminoles, was noticeable and striking. The Texan War of Independence also drew a few volunteers from Houston, among whom was William Kaigler, now of Dooly County, who was captured and kept a prisoner in the city of Mexico for a number of years; also Jack Oliver and Austin Pirkins, who were massacred with their command (Fannin's) at the Alamo. In giving the names of the first settlers of the county, I unintentionally omitted old Mr. Thomas Duffel, of General Lafayette's command during the Revolutionary War. He attended the General when wounded at Brandywine, and when the latter passed through Georgia, they met, recognized and embraced each other at Milledgeville and wept. This old man always carried a fine flagstaff with the stars and stripes at the Fourth of July celebrations. He was very tall and wore a continental costume, with his white hair long, after the old style. William Wellborn, previously mentioned, who kept hotel in Perry in 1824, became a General and distinguished himself in the Creek War. The first popular elections are items of thrilling interest. The voters commenced gathering a week before, and very many never left town under a week after the election was over. A description of the incident and excitement occuring and attendant upon these occasions would require the powers of a Bill Arp and a Longstreet combined, therefore, I must pass on, leaving them at least for the present, remarking only that every phase of character, personal appearance, age and condition, were the material, and every conceivable expression in words and conducts, the outcroppings which entered into and made these gatherings scenes the most ludicrous and difficult to describe. The boys always looked forward to election days as extra occasions of enjoyment, and like those who voted, we had our politics. Union men and nulifiers, Clark men and Troup men were the parties; Troup and Clark being the leaders in Georgia. We wanted to vote, but couldn't, and how slowly our beards grew, and tardily time moved on when we would be men and own and use a razor etc., and vote. Other occasions of amusement and pastime, evolving incidents, and inspiring emotions and aspirations rise up, which we fondly cherish. I want to write them, but as time will allow, as I hope, more interesting scenes will be the subject of the next chapter. ~~ TO BE CONTINUED ~~ _______________________________________ William A. Mills Perry, GA [email protected] ________________________________________________________________ YOU'RE PAYING TOO MUCH FOR THE INTERNET! Juno now offers FREE Internet Access! Try it today - there's no risk! For your FREE software, visit: http://dl.www.juno.com/get/tagj.

Houston County Researchers: For the past 3 years, I have been compiling a book entitled: EYEWITNESS ACCOUNTS OF HOUSTON COUNTY, GEORGIA 1821-1871: Copyright 2000 by William A. Mills. I thought I had this book finished last year, but I keep finding more interesting items to include in it. By the time that I actually print this book, it may be too large to contain in one volume. But, there is no need to keep all of this good info hidden away. I stumbled across an original story written by a man who was born in 1826, and resided in Perry, GA for several decades. This story was supposed to be published right after the Civil War, but I cannot find any evidence that it ever was. I've checked everywhere that I can, and no one has ever heard of it before. ================>>> Portions from Chapter 9: It is not an easy question to decide now, which of the following occurences created the most excitement, and drew the largest crowd. To wit: The first drum and fife at a militia muster, the first church bell, the arrival of the first stagecoach, which was brought by our old friend and fellow citizen, John Gordon, or the burning of the canebrake, near the junction of Big Indian and Bay Creeks. The latter kept up a continued popping for half a day, which was like the rattle of musketry, and the former attracted large crowds of old and young. That drummer and fifer were admired and wondered at more than was General Beall with his military bearing and trapings. We knew that Mr. Gordon was only a man, but thought as we looked at him, seated on the box of the fine coach, with the reins of his splendid team and whip in hand, that we would rather be a stage driver than to be Governor Troup; and the sight and first tones of the church bell, inspired a kind of notion that we were no longer town, but city boys; didn't live in the country any longer, not we! In 1833, an independent school was taught by a Mrs. Foote, in a log house near where the Presbyterian Church stands. The great storm which passed over and devastated this section in March of the same year, was heard in the distance as "The gathering clouds like meeting armies, came on apace". School was dismissed, but too late for us all to get home, and the whole school took refuge in my father's house near by. The fury of that howling, raging tempest, frantic screams and cries, terror stricken countenances and wringing hands, while the house trembled and shook to its foundation, during which we expected every moment to be hurled into eternity, is beyond description. I noticed but one in the house who was quiet and composed, Miss J. S., now Mrs. D., of Eufaula, Alabama, who was reading the Bible. I drew near her when "Serenely my heart took the hue of her's", and I felt secure. The little damage done to houses was a matter of astonishment. Even until now, its track through the country is marked by what used to be called hurricane roots. After the storm subsided, the sun reappeared, scattering his golden beams in loveliness and beauty upon the drenched, storm beaten earth. The Maker and Ruler had said "Peace be still!" There was a great calm, and then followed "One of those ambrosial eves, A day of storm so often leaves At its calm sitting, when the west Opens her golden bowers to rest, And a moist radience from the skies Shoots trembling down, as from the eyes Of some meek penetent, whose last Bright hours atone for dark ones past." ~~ TO BE CONTINUED ~~ _______________________________________ William A. Mills Perry, GA [email protected] ________________________________________________________________ YOU'RE PAYING TOO MUCH FOR THE INTERNET! Juno now offers FREE Internet Access! Try it today - there's no risk! For your FREE software, visit: http://dl.www.juno.com/get/tagj.

I have added a couple of Photos to the web page. There is one of the Jones family and if anyone can identify others in the photo that would be great. Visit the Houston County Web page at www.rootsweb.com/~gahousto Good hunting, Gaila

Houston County Researchers: For the past 3 years, I have been compiling a book entitled: EYEWITNESS ACCOUNTS OF HOUSTON COUNTY, GEORGIA 1821-1871: Copyright 2000 by William A. Mills. I thought I had this book finished last year, but I keep finding more interesting items to include in it. By the time that I actually print this book, it may be too large to contain in one volume. But, there is no need to keep all of this good info hidden away. I stumbled across an original story written by a man who was born in 1826, and resided in Perry, GA for several decades. This story was supposed to be published right after the Civil War, but I cannot find any evidence that it ever was. I've checked everywhere that I can, and no one has ever heard of it before. ================>>> Portions from Chapter 8: Aunt Annie Gauze was, in her native country, a Lutheran, but joined the Methodists here, and was a zealous, devoted Christian. Being of a very nervous temperament, she had spells of hysterics, but never would acknowledge it. During one of her paroxysms, she overheard Dr. Reese tell my mother that, that was her present ailment. This offended her, and when the doctor called again, she was up and said to him, "Go way mit yourself; I takes no more your meticines. You says I is got de highstrikes; go way mit yourself". After that, she had no more "highstrikes"; it cured her. My father hired an old well digger and, during his stay with us, an acquaintance between him and Aunt Annie was followed by a fondness for each other's society; soon a matrimonial contract was agreed to, and the time fixed for its execution. The old man came ahead of time, and boarders furnished him with a suit, not a little fantastic, and sent the old lady a box of artificials, ("argrewations" she called them) with which the girls adorned her white bridal cap and robe. Thus they were united in holy wedlock, as happy as if theirs had been the spring time of life. The union proved to be a happy one, but oh! how sad were all when Aunt Annie was taken away by death. Another very old couple was married and their wedding was celebrated by the young men and boys with bugles, horns, tin pans, quills, songs and powder guns, and a procession with torches headed by the bride and groom. They marched all over town, and kept up the excitement until the wee small hours of the morning. The old court house was illuminated one still, dark night (the occasion of a marriage in town). Every pane of glass in the building exhibited a bright light, and we have never witnessed a scene that excelled it in brilliancy and beauty. It is said that "a thing of beauty is a joy forever", and in one vivid recollection of it, have thought of that "building not made with hands", in another and better clime, where there is no night, and whose brilliant sheen is its own founder and builder. There were two worthy old women, well remembered by not a few yet living. One of them, Mrs. Kent, lived near the bridge and owned a large flock of geese, which were valuable in those days for their quills and feathers. During one of their aquatic frolics in the branch nearby, they raised a squall and commenced an unusual splashing. The old lady, satisfied that an alligator was the cause of the alarm, gathered her apron full of light-wood knots and ran to the rescue. Sure enough, there was the monster, and making for him, she slew him outright before he could get into deep water. The old lady was better known to the boys because she made and sold ginger cakes (so called). Mrs. Crawford also was an item, or rather her apples, peaches and plums were so well guarded by her dogs and her constant presence at home, that no one ever received any benefit from them, except seldom as a gift or frequently for the money. One Mrs. Highnote, came to town often with provisions for sale. The old lady in her dump cart, with her rustic manners and dress, crowned with a man's fur hat, was a curiosity. Another, with enough loud talk and vim for a half dozen of her sex, came alone and did her own trading, and wasn't afraid. If her husband was living, we do not remember ever having seen him; perhaps, like the husband of Nancy Hart, he was not the head of the family. These welcome visitors, with others who supplied us with butter, eggs, poultry, etc., had several runaways in town, one of which was both amusing and somewhat remarkable. A yoke of yearlings, not well broken, hitched to a truck cart, ran away up Carroll Street, tacking about in triangular, rectangular, and zigzag style; they swept the whole street, now and then the cart seemed ahead, but the speed was kept up till they were out of town. The excitement and laughter of the town boys at the fun, was participated in by the boys who owned the runaway team, and they informed us afterward, that the team and cart hauled up at home all right, nothing broken but the steers, which never ran away again. Others occurred, during which sidewalks and streets were cleared of pedestrians, and the frightened horses, with hucksters' carts attached, girated as if they didn't know the way out of town. And corners, piazzas, steps and shade trees were fixed up to be run into on such occasions. And after the mischief was done, stop, and with forward ears and honest face, gaze with mute and apparent astonishment on the debris of the tear-up. The custom of women walking behind their husbands and brothers, Indian-trail fashion, was once common in the country, especially with old people. I always thought it odd, never could see any good reason for it, and well remember the astonishment created by the first couple that was seen walking side by side, the lady resting her arm upon that of her companion. ~~ TO BE CONTINUED ~~ _______________________________________ William A. Mills Perry, GA [email protected] ________________________________________________________________ YOU'RE PAYING TOO MUCH FOR THE INTERNET! Juno now offers FREE Internet Access! Try it today - there's no risk! For your FREE software, visit: http://dl.www.juno.com/get/tagj.

Houston County Researchers: For the past 3 years, I have been compiling a book entitled: EYEWITNESS ACCOUNTS OF HOUSTON COUNTY, GEORGIA 1821-1871: Copyright 2000 by William A. Mills. I thought I had this book finished last year, but I keep finding more interesting items to include in it. By the time that I actually print this book, it may be too large to contain in one volume. But, there is no need to keep all of this good info hidden away. I stumbled across an original story written by a man who was born in 1826, and resided in Perry, GA for several decades. This story was supposed to be published right after the Civil War, but I cannot find any evidence that it ever was. I've checked everywhere that I can, and no one has ever heard of it before. ================>>> Portions from Chapter 7: Of the first and early citizens of the town, whom I remember are: Howell Cobb, Dr. E. T. McGehee, James E. Duncan, Edward Welch, William Wellborn, Johnson Wellborn, Peter V. Guerry, John M. Moore, James M. Kelly, John M. Allen, Charles H. Rice, Asa Royal, Bentley Outlaw, John Chain, Isaiah Chain, Levin F. Chain, Arthur A. Morgan, Michael E. Madden, Dr. Reese, Dr. McKinney, William H. Rudd, Mr. Kent, Phineas Oliver, Nathaniel Quick, Joshua Pattishall, Littleton Spivey, and Edwin Monger. I remember also: Esquire Lewis, John J. Owens, David O. Smith, and Richard Smith, who lived on Mossy Creek; Hardy Hargrove, W. P. Bryant, S. S. Bryant, R. W. Baskin, and Isaac C. West, near West's Bridge on the Hayneville road; Joseph Tooke, George Williams, Dr. C. F. Pattillo, Henry Wimberly, William S. Coalson, E. K. Hodges, and Terrell Perry, at Hayneville; John Laidler, Patrick Smith, and David M. Brown, near Hickory Grove; William Brown, S. D. Henderson, and James Fitzgerald, near Henderson; H. B. Hathaway, at old Centreville; Silas Rawls, S. C. Bryant, Thomas Johnson, Rev. Samuel Jenkins, Rev. Benjamin Webb, in the Upper Fourteenth District; James A. Everett, Rev. Enos Young, R. H. Slappey, Allen Wiggins, and Mr. Edgeworth, at and near Fort Valley; Carlton Wellborn, Joel Walker, and Mr. Feagin, near Wellborn's Mills and Ferry; Mr. Dupree, Alexander Smith, Needham Smith, John Tomlinson, Rev. Thomas Speight, William Haddock, Rev. J. A. Roquemore, James A. Bryan, H. L. Dennard, Allen Sutton, Baldwin Higgs, and Benjamin Bryan, between Mossy Creek and the river; Simon Bateman, Cullen Talton, Shadrach Dennard, John Killen, Pifash Jenkins, Neil Smith, James Dean, James H. Killen, and Williamson Crawford, near Perry. Very nearly all of these have passed away. Some are resting in our quiet cemetery; others in different parts of the country; others emigrated west, and but few are now living. The personal appearance, habits, and distinctive peculiarities and traits of character of each, which daguerreotyped them on my memory, could not be written in the time and space allotted here. Those of them who were farmers, followed the plow, used the hoe, pulled fodder, picked cotton, cut and rolled logs, and split rails. And yet, as a rule, they were longer lived; and in physical development, vigor and elasticity, were better specimens of manhood after middle age, and when old, than we can find now. Query: Does not this fact explode the opinion so frequently advanced now-a-days, that "white men cannot cultivate the soil in this climate" ? Some few of them accumulated wealth, others moved in, and those who did not grow rich, were bought-out by the fortunate ones and new comers. Large plantations and bodies of land, owned by a few with numerous slaves, succeeded till scarcely a vestige of the first settlements was left. Whether better or worse, let those judge, who have lived in Houston long enough to realize the difference in the county now, and when it was dotted with small farms, teeming with the richest abundance of the necessaries of life, with its grand old forests, and alive with lowing herds, and its wild native inhabitants. In the lists above, I have intentionally omitted the names of several who were a terror to the community, especially when intoxicated. Several cosmopolitans floated into town, one of whom was periodically a raving maniac. Another was a consumptive, and died alone, on a sand bank just below the cemetery, where his corpse was accidently found several days afterward. Another was taken by a crowd, and "well-ducked", after which he disappeared. A man living in the county, was once "cow-hided" on the public square by another citizen; and a woman (white) was severely whipped with a wagon whip, on the street, by a man (?). A traveler came along, and a thing occurred during his short stay, which, if told, might tease you; and I have no disposition to do that just now. Therefore, with a story told long ago by a citizen of the town, will withhold it for the present. ~~ TO BE CONTINUED ~~ _______________________________________ William A. Mills Perry, GA [email protected] ________________________________________________________________ YOU'RE PAYING TOO MUCH FOR THE INTERNET! Juno now offers FREE Internet Access! Try it today - there's no risk! For your FREE software, visit: http://dl.www.juno.com/get/tagj.

Houston County Researchers: For the past 3 years, I have been compiling a book entitled: EYEWITNESS ACCOUNTS OF HOUSTON COUNTY, GEORGIA 1821-1871: Copyright 2000 by William A. Mills. I thought I had this book finished last year, but I keep finding more interesting items to include in it. By the time that I actually print this book, it may be too large to contain in one volume. But, there is no need to keep all of this good info hidden away. I stumbled across an original story written by a man who was born in 1826, and resided in Perry, GA for several decades. This story was supposed to be published right after the Civil War, but I cannot find any evidence that it ever was. I've checked everywhere that I can, and no one has ever heard of it before. ================>>> Portions from Chapter 6: A short time before his death, Mr. James Fitzgerald informed me that the second Superior Court (not the first one) was held in a coal house at Fort Valley, and the record states that the first was held at the house of James A. Everett, which I presume was at or near Fort Valley. Mr. Fitzgerald was a Grand Juror, sworn and empaneled for the second Court, and his statement corroborated by this fact, which is a part of the record, places it beyond all question that the second Court was held in a coal house at Fort Valley. The record of the first Court, only states the fact that the Court met as above, stated the names of jurors drawn for the succeeding term, and its adjournment to the next term. The proceedings of the Superior Courts were interesting, and to us of the present day, would in part, have been amusing. Judge Strong, while attending one of its sessions, and before he rose to the bench, was so badly maltreated at night by a party against whom he had been employed, that the whole power of the Court was brought into requisition to protect him in the discharge of his duties to his client. While Judge King was upon the bench, a crowd of the ringleaders of that class, who were open and defiant in their outrages, were handled so severely by the Grand Jury, Solicitor General Starke and the Judge, that they were compelled to leave the town. The community were so indignant at their conduct, and especially the particular offense for which they were indicted, arraigned, tried, convicted and punished, that the trial drew quite a crowd and created considerable excitement. The Solicitor's speech was replete with deserved, withering rebuke of the offenders and their crime, masterly vindication of decency and order (for which they seemed to have no respect), a fervent eloquent appeal to the jury for correction, and to the judge, for the extreme penalty of the law in such cases made and provided. The crowd dispersed, feeling better, and the offenders left with curses on the Solicitor, who was called by one of them, "the Felicity Gineral", and by another, "the State's Returney". A school boy once walked into the court house intoxicated, while Court was in session, and was promenading the lobby, sporting a fine suit of clothes, a new silk stovepipe hat on one side of his head, a silver-beaded ratan cane, and seemingly oblivious to everything else but the curling smoke from his cigar. Judge King ordered him brought before him. After a short colloquy, during which Jim seemed to think himself honored by being permitted to address his honor, the judge asked him his name. "Julius Caesar, may it please your honor", was the reply. "Mr. Sheriff", said the Judge, "take Julius Caesar, put him in jail, and keep him there until he learns how to behave himself when he comes into a court house". Poor Jim, he was killed while fighting gallantly in a battle with the Indians during the Creek War; "peace to his ashes". ~~ TO BE CONTINUED ~~ _______________________________________ William A. Mills Perry, GA [email protected] ________________________________________________________________ YOU'RE PAYING TOO MUCH FOR THE INTERNET! Juno now offers FREE Internet Access! Try it today - there's no risk! For your FREE software, visit: http://dl.www.juno.com/get/tagj.

This info is from a Bible records, a cousin and ancestral file combined as a supposition. Looking for ancestors and descendants of the following: Husband's Name William JOHNSON Born: 18 Jan 1753 Place: , Goochland, Va census 1820 Baldwin Co, 1830 Monroe Co, 1840 Houston Co, Died: 26 Oct 1838 Place: , Bibb, Georgia Buried: Place: , , , Johnston Fam Cem Father: Will JOHNSON Mother: Christian LEEK Wife's Name Mary (Maiden Name Unknown) Born: 1750 Place: Died: 1799 Place: (1st husband was a BALLARD only child: Lottie BALLARD Born: Abt. 1772) Children of William and Mary JOHNSTON: 1. Gideon JOHNS(T)ON Born: Abt. 1779 (actual April 18, 1786 Wilkes Co GA) Married : Mary Malone Polly REDDING 1 Nov 1810 Baldwin Co., GA Died: February 02, 1839 Monroe Co., GA 2. Caleb JOHNSTON Born: Abt. 1781 3. Asa JOHNSTON Born: Abt. 1783 4. Moses JOHNSTON Born: Abt. 1785 5. Rebecca JOHNSTON Born: Abt. 1787 Married: Thomas TURK 6. Mary Ann JOHNSTON Born: Abt. 1789 Married: Theodocius TURK 7. Albert JOHNSTON Born: Abt. 1791 8. Lloyd JOHNSTON Born: Abt. 1793 9. Joel Mac JOHNSTON Born: Abt. 1795 Died: Bef Mar 1837 William's 2nd marriage: Wife's Name Millison S. HOGAN Born: 1790 Place: , , Georgia Married: 5 Apr 1814 Place: , Baldwin, Georgia Father: Isham HOGAN Mother: Children 1. Susan D. JOHNSTON Born: Abt. 1815 Married: William F. CLARK(E)Dec 30,1838 or Dec 10,1829 Bibb Co, GA 2. William Blackstone JOHNSTON Born: Abt 1816 Place: , Baldwin, Georgia Married: Caroline BAILEY 10 Oct 1833 Married: Eleanor BULLOCK 15 Nov 1838 Bibb Co, GA Died: 20 Jul 1868 Place: , Dooly, Georgia 3. Martha JOHNSTON Born: 1818 Place: , Baldwin, Georgia Married Joseph John HOLLEMON 2 Oct 1834 Died: 1894 Place: 4. Elizabeth JOHNSTON Born: 1818 Place: , Baldwin, Georgia Married: William HARRINGTON 25 Sep 1834 5. Vastile JOHNSTON Born: Abt. 1820 Place: <, Baldwin, Georgia> Married: HARRINGTON 6. Luther R. JOHNSTON Born: 23 Jun 1823 Place: , Bibb, Georgia Married: Eliza HOLLINGSWORTH 18 Jun 1844 Died: 17 Apr 1866 Place: , Bibb, Georgia 7. Morgan Parker JOHNSTON Born: 25 Oct 1825 Place: , Bibb, Georgia Married: Sarah Ann REYNOLDS Died: Aft 26 1904 Aug Place: 8. Millison H. JOHNSTON Born: 1828 Place: , Bibb, Georgia Married: John HOLLINGSWORTH 3 Oct 1843 Died: Aft 26 1904 Aug Place: 9. Ann Miriam JOHNSTON Born: 30 May 1832 Place: , Bibb, Georgia Marriage: Walter HOLLINGSWORTH 4 Sep 1847 Died: 18 Jul 1876 Place: , Bibb, Georgia ******************************* Some Georgia Records, Volume II William B. Johnston will March 2, 1837 land originally in Houston,Co., now in Bibb Co., Ga. wife, Million S. Johnston (wife 2) son and executor, Gideon Johnston ( by wife 1 #1) son, Luther Johnston (by wife 2 #6) twice in list son, Morgan Johnston (by wife 2 #7) twice in list son, Caleb Johnston (by wife 1 #2) daughter, Mary Ann Turk (by wife 1 #6) daughter, Rebecca Turk (by wife 1 #5) son, (deceased) Joel Mac Johnston (by wife 1 #9) son, Asa Johnston (by wife 1 #3) son, Loyd Johnston (by wife 1 #8) son. Albert Johnston (by wife 1 #7) son, William B. Johnston (by wife 2 #2) daughter, Susan Clark (by wife 2 #1) daughter, Eliza Harrington (by wife 2 #4) daughter, Vastile Harrington (by wife 2 #5) son, Luther Johnston (by wife 2 #6) son, Morgan P. Johnston (by wife 2 #7) daughter, Millison H. Johnston (by wife 2 #8) daughter, Ann Miriam Johnston (by wife 2 #9) This list omits Martha (by wife 2 #3) and Moses (by wife 1 #4) Laura [email protected]