James H. SCATES was instrumental in establishing the First Baptist Church in Center, Shelby, TX. A family member just recently informed me about a book written by James H. SCATES. The subject of the book was of a religious nature and most likely would have been written in the late 1800's. James SCATES was a Baptist preacher and also served as Shelby County Treasurer in the 1880's. According to historical records, he was a school teacher in the Bunea Vista area in the 1860's and a member of the Newburn Masonic Lodge. He and his wife, Sarah, lived in the Cedar Yard community. I REALLY need to know who his parents were. He was orphaned at a young age in Alabama along with his brother, William Turner SCATES. It has been said that his brother, William, also lived in Shelby County, but I have not found any records to verify that information. I am wondering if anyone knows anything about this book or has any information about James H. SCATES. I am not sure what information is available to the public in the Masonic records, but perhaps the answers lie there. Any help will be appreciated! Barbara Williams Scates Also researching Shelby County surnames: CORLEY, CLARDY, BRITTAIN, and POU/POUGH