PHOTO: Sam Gilbert (editor and proprietor of Humboldt Courier)

Gibson County Illustrated (continued)

These pages from Gibson County Illustrated is courtesy of Jere Cox and Eddy G. Clark who gave their permission for the volunteers of Gibson County TN to transcribe it and place it on the Gibson Co. TN web site.  Special thanks to both of them!

PAGE 53

Is is soundly Democratic in politics, recognizing fully the evolution of it as in this day of changes, but standing for the main principles that underlie the people's government.

Mr. Sam Gilbert, its able and popular editor, is making the paper a strong factor in the progress and development of Humboldt and the county at large.

The Humboldt Law and Chancery Courts

were established in 1869. These courts have jurisdiction over Civil Districts Nos. 1, 2, 3, 4, 16, and 18. The judges are the same as those of the general courts. The officers of these courts are J. B. Stallings, Sheriff; Clerk of Law Court, J. T. Brown; Clerk and Master of Chancery Court, W. N. L. Dunlap; Deputy Clerk and Master, J. M. Harris.

Neal A. Senter

Mr. N. A. Senter, the present official head of the municipal government of the city of Humboldt, has been a citizen of Humboldt since 1867. He has held this office and that of Recorder of the city several terms, and has taken a prominent part in promoting the growth and prosperity of the city. In public office Mr. Senter has exemplified the character of a faithful, zealous, and conscientious servant of the people; as a business man he is distinguished for his reliability and the honorable character of his dealings; and as a citizen there is no one more highly respected and esteemed. His cheerful and companionable disposition, together with an engaging frankness of manner, makes him a universal favorite with his friends and acquaintances. In social life he is ready and helpful in all benevolent enterprises, an active worker in the church, an earnest Christian, and a zealous Mason.

Mr. Senter battled for "the lost cause" during the greater part of that struggle, serving in both the infantry and cavalry service of the Confederate States. His last service was a lieutenant in the cavalry brigade of Gen. N. B. Forrest. He was wounded several times, and at the battle of Shiloh escaped miraculously with five bullet holes through his hat. While he disclaims the appellation of being a reconstructed rebel and has no apologies to make for his espousal of the Southern cause, his acquiescence in the result of the great struggle is hearty and unaffected. He, with others of his compatriots in and around Humboldt who fought with him, now rejoices

PHOTO: Neal A. Senter Mayor of Humboldt

PAGE 54

in the blessings resulting from a reunited country and takes a noble pride in the achievements of the great republic.

Humboldt may well be proud of her noble mayor.

James Gillen

In sketching people and things in and about the enterprising little city of Humboldt, I venture to say a few words about my friend, Mr. James Gillen. Although I had never met Mr. Gillen before I came to Humboldt, such was the urbanity of his manner that he seemed an old acquaintance. My association with him became very pleasant, and I always found him kind, obliging, and entertaining. He has traveled and read much, and his conversation and society was an agreeable experience. Mr. Gillen is indeed a specimen of the old-time gentleman; and Mrs. Gillen, his estimable wife, whom I also met in social life, is a worthy representative of the old-time gentlewoman, modest in deportment, retiring in disposition, and considerate in her bearing toward others. I am glad to number Mr. and Mrs. Gillen among the many friends I learned to esteem in Humboldt.

Mr. Gillen's native country is Ireland, but he is an American by choice and adoption. He has been a citizen of Humboldt for nearly a quarter of a century and has become a part of its business and social make-up. He has built up a large and prosperous business, and with it has established a character for business integrity that makes his name the synonym of reliability.

Mr. Gillen is a strong believer in the present and future prospects of Humboldt as a business and manufacturing center. He is a large stockholder in the Humboldt Cotton Mills and the Merchants' State Bank, of Humboldt, in both of which he is a director.

PHOTO:  James Gillenproprietor of the Humboldt Marble Works

Hon. W. I. McFarland

Ike McFarland, as he is commonly called, was born on March 25, 1835, in Crockett County, Tenn. He was the son of Rev. J. W. McFarland, a prominent minister of the Methodist Church. He was educated in the Alamo High School, at Alamo, Tenn., and at Andrew College, Trenton, Tenn. He was soldier in the Confederate Army, under the famous general, Bedford Forrest. At the close of the war he entered the practice of law and has pursued that profession successfully ever since. He has been for years an active temperance man, and at one time was the Grand Worthy Patriarch of the Sons of Temperance in Tennessee, then a strong organization in the State. His services as a public speaker against the drink traffic have been quite extensive.

Mr. McFarland is a Methodist and has for years represented his church at Humboldt in

PAGE 55

the various district conferences. He has served as delegate to the Annual Conference from year to year continuously for a generation or more; and in 1886 he was a delegate to the General Conference of the Methodist Episcopal Church, South, held at Richmond, Va. At the last session of the Annual Conference he was elected one of the delegates to the great Southern Missionary Conference, held at New Orleans on April 23-30, 1901. Always ready to help any good cause, he has aided more or less in the construction of churches of all denominations and school buildings of all kinds within his reach, and is a strong believer in teaching and preaching. He takes an interest in politics; is a Democrat, and has often appeared on the stump when requested to do so, but never resorts to personal abuse or vituperation.

He has been three times a member of the Tennessee General Assembly -- twice of the House and once of the Senate. Once in the county of his residence he received every vote but two, although opposed by a strong man, and in all his canvasses he received practically all the votes in his own district and the districts around him. He was never defeated before the people; but, seeing nothing to attract, he ceased years ago to seek office.

He is healthy and cheerful, and is still actively engaged in the practice of law. He has represented the Louisville and Nashville Railroad as local attorney for more than thirty years, and has tried perhaps more damage cases than any other living lawyer in the State.

J. N. Lannom

J. N. Lannom was the oldest child of Green B. and Mary Lannom. He was born in Rutherford County, Tenn., in 1823, where he continued to reside till 1844, when he removed to Gibson County and settled near the old town of Shiloh. He married Sallie Sharp before leaving Rutherford County, and by that union eight children were born. His wife died in 1857, and he remained single the balance of his life. He was identified with the town of Humboldt from the first, and was instrumental in the upbuilding of the town. He was a believer in the future greatness of the town, and to that end his energy and best efforts were given. In connection with Dr. John P. Sharp and W. C. Thurston he was one of the founders of the town, and much of her present success and prosperity can be credited to his energy and foresight. He never spared of his time and means to benefit the town. He gave the land upon which the present town college now stands; he also gave many other lots to churches and factories. All of this was done to build up Humboldt. His death occurred in 1887, at Humboldt.

PHOTO: J. N. Lannom

John C. Gillespie

John C. Gillespie was the first settler, and the first railroad agent and post-

PAGE 56

master, and also the first merchant in Humboldt. He was born in North Carolina, and came to Gibson County in 1822. He was one of the founders of the Presbyterian Church in Humboldt and was an elder in the church until his death, which occurred in July 1877. His son, L. K. Gillespie, has been in business in Humboldt since 1865. He is a highly respected citizen and has been an elder in the church for over twenty years.

W. N. L. Dunlap

W. N. L. Dunlap was born in Gibson County, two and one-half miles north of Humboldt, on October 15, 1843; was brought up on the farm. Esquire Dunlap entered the Confederate Army in the fall of 1861, and served till the Battle of Franklin, when he was severely wounded in the shoulder and was disabled for further service. After the war he engaged in farming for a number of years. He was elected magistrate of the Third Civil District in 1881, and has filled that office since that time. In

October, 1888, he was appointed Clerk and Master of the Chancery Court at Humboldt, which position he still holds.

PHOTO:  W. N. L. DunlapClerk and Master of Humboldt Law Court and Magistrate of the District

Esquire Dunlap is a member of the Methodist Church and of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. He was married to Miss Sarah Hess, daughter of Maj. J. A. W. Hess on November 7, 1872, and by that union they have had eight children, five of whom are living -- Warner E., Mary G., Anna Kate, Thomas W. S., and Lula.

Esquire Dunlap is one of the most active and influential members of the County Court and is always foremost in every enterprise that is for the upbuilding of the county.

John E. Campbell

J. E. Campbell, one of the leading citizens of Humboldt, was born in Grangier County, near Rutledge, in 1851, being now fifty years of age. He came to West Tennessee in the fall of 1873, when about twenty-two years of age. Although without any means, by untiring energy and business tact he

PHOTO:  John E. Campbell Member of School Board

has acquired considerable property and controls a representative value of $50,000. He was married in 1879 to Miss Jennie E. Hess, the youngest of eight daughters of Maj. J. A. W> Hess. He began farming in 1881 on a farm three miles north of Humboldt and was very successful, establishing and successfully managing Oakwood stock farm for several years, and shipping Holstein cattle, Jersey Red hogs, and barred Plymouth Rock chickens; in the

PAGE 57

meantime acquiring a canning factory and saw and grist mill in Humboldt. In 1899 he built a magnificent residence, "Fairview." He then moved into town and soon became a lumber dealer and contractor, putting up some of the finest residences and storehouses in the town and surrounding country. He takes an active interest in the affairs of the county, and is a zealous advocate and promoter of progress and development in all the essentials of social and civil improvement. For a number of years he served acceptably as a county surveyor.

Mr. Campbell is a staunch member and an elder of the old-school Presbyterian Church, and believes that religion should be upper most in all things. He has an interesting family, composed of three girls -- Marion L., Gabrilla H., and Lillian J. -- and three boys -- Levi Ross, Zach J., and James Elbert.

Col. C. H. Ferrell

Humboldt was not much of a town until after the close of the Civil War. The fact that it was situated in a good farming region, and especially that it was situated at the junction of two important railroad systems, made it a promising point for business enterprise. A number of progressive business men were attracted to the place on account of these considerations. Among these was C. H. Ferrell. Mr. Ferrell came to Humboldt in 1866 and entered upon a mercantile career, soon building up a large and profitable trade, and has been closely identified with the interests and growth of the town ever since.

To begin at the beginning of Mr. Ferrell's career in life, he was born in Dyer County, Tenn., on Christmas day, in the year 1837. This was a good day to be born on and was a favorable element in the horoscope of Mr. Ferrell's life. Perhaps he should have been a preacher, but he was not. It may be said of him, however, that no act of his life has ever cast dishonor upon the day of his nativity.

His early life was passed upon a farm. On arriving at manhood he added the milling business to farm pursuits, prosecuting the same for some years. When the war between the States broke out, he enlisted in the Confederate Army, joining the Twelfth Tennessee Infantry. He served in this branch of the service until the latter part of the war, when he entered the cavalry service, under General Forrest.

PHOTO:  Mrs. C. H. Ferrell

In 1864, just before the close of the war, he married Miss Lavinia Kelly Scales, an estimable young lady, belonging to a prominent family of Gibson County. We have seen that he came to Humboldt and began merchandising in 1866, soon after the close of the

PAGE 58

war. He continued this business until 1872, in the meantime and in the years following acquiring considerable land interests and also becoming interested in farming enterprises of a varied nature.

In 1874 he organized and established a large nursery plant, which developed into a very extensive and highly profitable business. This business prosecuted for fourteen years, with great profit. He closed out his nursery business in 1888. Previous to this, in 1887, he, with others, organized the Farmers and Merchants' Bank of Humboldt, becoming its president, occupying this position down to the present time.

Mr. Ferrell has been an active business man and promoter of business enterprises in Humboldt ever since he adopted it as his home. In addition to his position as president of the local bank, he is also president of the McNairy County Bank, at Selmer, McNairy County, which is a branch of the Merchants' State Bank of Humboldt.

Colonel Ferrell's activity in the promotion of useful enterprises in Humboldt is illustrated in the part he took in the organization and capitalization of the Humboldt Cotton Mills, an institution that contributes greatly to the upbuilding of Humboldt and furnishes employment to many of its people. He is a large stockholder and vice president of this large industry.

Mr. Ferrell is a ready and helpful participant in all movements to improve and better the religious, moral, and educational interests of the community, giving liberally of his time and means in support of these interests. He was the largest contributor to the building and furnishing of the new Methodist Church in Humboldt, a structure that will compare favorably in architectural beauty with any in the State. He is a member of this church and also one of its trustees, and in his daily walk and conversation exemplifies the character of a Christian gentleman and an upright citizen.

J. B. Stallings

Mr. Stallings came of good old North Carolina stock, his father having settled in Gibson County in 1833. He was born on November 19, 1857, on a farm about four miles northwest of Humboldt, and has lived on a farm all of his life. His present business is that of farming, devoting special attention to the raising of small fruits and vegetables for the northern markets, and as deputy sheriff of the county. As deputy sheriff his special duty is to serve as the executive officer of the Humboldt Law and Chancery Court. Mr. Stallings served four years as deputy during the terms of Sheriff B. F. Jones, and is the present incumbent as deputy under R. E. Morgan, the present sheriff of the county. His personal worth and ability is recognized by the community in which he lives by their entrusting him with various public duties. He is now and has been for several years one of the school directors of the Third Civil District, and was for a number of years supervisor of roads in the same district.

PHOTO: J. B. StallingsProminent farmer and Deputy Sheriff of Gibson County

Mr. Stallings is noted for his hospitality and liberality; and his beautiful country home, presided over by his noble wife, is always a most delightful place to stop.

He is known throughout his surrounding community as the big-hearted, jovial Jim B.

PAGE 59

Stallings. He has been married twice, and by the first union several children were born, only one of which is living - a son, Walter.

J. J. Thweatt

Mr. John J. Thweatt is a native of Dinwiddie County, Va. He came to Tennessee when a mere lad and attended the public schools of Memphis, prosecuting his studies under his brother, Prof. Noble Thweatt. While yet young he entered the dry goods business as a clerk, and for some years was in the employ of B. Lowenstein Bros., of Memphis. After the yellow fever epidemic of 1878 he made Humboldt his home, embarking in the dry goods business. His push and energy soon placed him among the leading merchants of the city of Humboldt, and for many years his establishment was one of the largest and most popular in the place.

PHOTO:  J. J. Thweatt

In 1882 Mr. Thweatt married Miss Cora L. Fox, daughter of the late Dr. W. L. Fox, of Humboldt. Four children -- three boys and one girl -- have blessed this union.

After a long and successful business career, Mr. Thweatt's health became impaired; and selling out his business he organized the Humboldt Mercantile Company, becoming its president. This position gave him time for recuperation and attention to his outside affairs.

It may be truthfully said that few men in Humboldt have done more to upbuild the town that Mt. Thweatt. He has given liberally of his time and means to promote the industries of the town and build up the churches and schools. He has been active in building up the banking institutions of the place. He was vice president of the old Farmers and Merchants' Bank, and was on the committee consolidating that institution with the Tennessee State Bank, forming the present Merchants' State Bank of Humboldt, of which he is now director.

Mr. Thweatt's citizenship is of such character that he may be said to be one of the pillars of the social well-being of his town; active and helpful in church and Sunday school and in all movements for the public good. He is a member of and an elder in the Cumberland Presbyterian Church.

J. J. R. Adams

J. J. R. Adams, a prominent merchant and business man of the town of Humboldt, is a native of McNairy County, Tenn. He came to Gibson County in 1867 and located at Humboldt, engaging in the manufacture of shingles, which he prosecuted with good success for several years.

PHOTO:  J. J. R. AdamsA leading merchant of Humboldt

In 1879 he entered the mercantile business in Humboldt, dealing in family groceries and

PAGE 60

hardware, in which business he has continued since, covering a business career of thirty-one years. During this time Mr. Adams has displayed and illustrated the virtues that enter into the character and life of a successful business man and useful citizen. His business career has been successful to the extent of accumulating a comfortable estate, and his course as a citizen has been such as to merit and receive the respect and esteem of his fellow citizens. Prompt and honorable in business affairs, he has been equally mindful of his social obligations, giving his encouragement and influence to all measures and movements intended for the good of the community.

Mr. Adams was for a number of years one of the Board of Alderman of the town of Humboldt, and served as treasurer of the corporation. He is a consistent and valued member of the Methodist Church, South, and also of the order of Odd Fellows, besides belonging to several other benevolent organizations.

John M. Senter

Mr. John M. Senter, whose photogravure is given here, is one of the rising young business men of Humboldt. He was born in Humboldt on September 21, 1868, and has always made Humboldt his home. His steadiness of character and practical business qualities have kept him in responsible positions ever since attaining manhood. He was for twelve or fifteen years connected with some of the leading dry goods houses of Humboldt in the capacity of general salesman, eleven years of the time being spent with the popular and enterprising establishment of J. J. Thweatt.

On December 26, 1895, he married Miss Mattie Tinsley, and estimable young lady of Humboldt; and two years thereafter, in September, 1897, he resigned his position with Mr. Thweatt and entered the general insurance business. Since that time he has devoted himself to the latter pursuit and has built up the largest insurance business in the city of Humboldt.

PHOTO:  John M. SenterProminent insurance agent

His business covers all classes of risks -- fire, life, accident, tornado, plate glass, steam boiler, employers' liability, health, etc. Some of the largest and most reliable fire insurance companies in the world are represented in his office -- notably, the Royal, of Liverpool; North British and Mercantile; Aetna, of Hartford; New York Underwriters; Westchester, of New York; Greenwich, of New York; American Central, of St. Louis; and the Home, of New York, the last making a specialty of farm risks. The Union Central Life Insurance Company, of Cincinnati, a strong and progressive life company, does a large business in his agency. He also represents the American Casualty Company, writing accident, plate glass, boiler, employers' liability, and health insurance.

The aggregate insurance capital represented in Mr. Senter's office is more than one hundred million dollars.

Besides being a strong factor in the business life of Humboldt, Mr. Senter's usefulness as a citizen is universally felt and recognized. He is prominent and active in the cause of religion and education and in his support of measures and movements for the general good. He is a member of the Methodist Church, South, and of the Masonic fraternity, being secretary of Humboldt Lodge. 

PAGE 61

John W. Gatewood

John W. Gatewood, fright agent of the Lousiville and Nashville Railroad, is a native of Mississippi and is a descendant of one of the oldest and best families in the South. He was born in 1852 in Scott County, and was educated at the Somerville (Miss.) High School.

In 1822 he came to Humboldt and accepted a position with the Louisville and Nashville Railroad, and has been in the service of this road in various capacities ever since. He was promoted at different times until he arose to the position which he now fills with credit to himself and the Louisville and Nashville Railroad Company.

PHOTO:  John W. Gatewood Agent of the Louisville & Nashville Railroad, Humboldt

Mr. Gatewood not only takes high rank as a practical railroad man, but as a popular and enterprising citizen. He was for several terms elected a member of the City Council, which was an evidence of the esteem in which he is held by our people. In his official capacity he always had the interests of the city at heart, and worked for the advancement of every enterprise that would add to the growth and prosperity of Humboldt.

Mr. Gatewood was married in 1884 to Miss Laura Belle Watkins, and has an interesting family. He is a quiet, kind-hearted gentle man of the old Southern type, and has friends among all classes. He is one of the most efficient and popular men the Louisville and Nashville Railroad ever had at Humboldt.

I. H. Dungan

I. H. Dungan, one of the most popular and enterprising citizens of the city of Humboldt, was born in Hardin County, Tenn., on May 24, 1855. He came to Humboldt when quite a youth and resided with Hon. W. I. McFarland, a cousin by marriage, who sent him to school for four years. He then entered the retail grocery trade, forming a partnership under the name of Fox, Hamilton & Dungan. The firm was burned out in 1882 by a disastrous fire, which swept away thirty-one business houses, the firm losing everything. With undaunted pluck, Mr. Dungan set up business again on his own account and prosecuted the same with splendid success until 1890, when he was again the victim if the fire fiend, losing heavily by a second fire.

PHOTO:  I. H. Dungan

In 1893 he was appointed postmaster at Humboldt, serving five years. In 1897 he established the Humboldt Hoop and Heading Factory, now one of the chief industries of the city. Mr. Dungan is noted for his enterprise and public spirit. He has been the active spirit in securing for the city some of its leading enterprises -- notably, the Bank of Humboldt, the Commercial Hotel, and a

PAGE 62

stave factory and flouring mill. He is still untiring in his efforts to induce capital and manufacturing enterprises to locate in Humboldt.

He married Miss Willie Fox, the accomplished daughter of Dr. W. L. Fox, deceased, and finds in the married state the supreme happiness of life.

J. A. Collingsworth

John Aladdin Collingsworth was born on a farm near the city of Humboldt, Tenn., on January 23, 1872. He was educated in the common schools of the neighborhood, supplemented by several years' attendance at the Jackson High School, at Henderson, and also in the schools of Nashville. He took a special business course in the Humboldt Business College.

In 1893 he entered the Law School of Cumberland University, at Lebanon, Tenn., graduating therefrom with honors. He began the practice of law at Somerville, Tenn., soon after his graduation and was meeting with splendid success when, being offered a partnership with Hon. G. W. Wade, a distinguished lawyer of his native county, he removed to his old home of Humboldt and entered the practice there. This firm prospered during its continuance, but in 1896 Mr. Wade withdrew to enter politics. Since that time, Ladd, as he is familiarly known, has continued the practice, building up a fine business. Soon after his location in Humboldt he was elected one of its Alderman, serving also as secretary of the board and chairman of the finance committee. While filling these offices the new water and light plants of the city were put into successful operation.

PHOTO:  J. A. CollingsworthAttorney

In 1897 he was elected Mayor of the city serving in that office two years, declining a reelection on account of the exigencies of his law practice. He made an excellent record as Mayor and in all the offices he held, demonstrating his zeal in the public service and fitness for public trust.

He now has a large and increasing law practice and is one of the rising young men of Gibson County. He is a member and active worker in a number of the benevolent orders, and also a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, South, at Humboldt, and a zealous participant in church and Sunday school work.

Mr. Collingsworth is a young man of most exemplary habits, and possesses a high sense of honor and devotion to moral principles. He is still unmarried.

PHOTO:  A. R. DodsonCashier Merchants' State Bank

PAGE 63

A. R. Dodson

A. R. Dodson, cashier of the Merchants' State Bank of Humboldt, was born in Gibson County in 1865, and came with his parents to Humboldt in 1872. He is a graduate of the Southwestern Baptist University, at Jackson, Tenn., receiving the B.A. degree in that institution. He completed his business course at Eastman's Business College, Poughkeepsie, N. Y., in October, 1886, in his twenty-first year.

He was elected cashier of the Farmers and Merchants' Bank of Humboldt, and when that bank consolidated with the Tennessee State Bank, forming the Merchants' State Bank, he was elected cashier of the latter, which position he has filled down to the present time. Mr. Dodson's business career has been spent entirely in Humboldt, although offered many tempting inducements elsewhere in the banking business. Having been associated with Mr. C. H. Ferrell for fourteen years in a successful prosecution of the banking business, he feels reluctant to break old ties or sever the bonds that link him to the friends and associates of his home city.

PHOTO:  Residence of J. J. Snyder, Humboldt

MANUFACTORIES AND BUSINESS ENTERPRISES

B. C. Jarrell & Co., Manufacturers of Fruit Packages

The history of the firm of B. C. Jarrell & Co. dates from 1870. In that year Mr. B. C. Jarrell moved from Wilson County, Tenn., and in partnership with Col. James Hamilton, of Lebanon, Tenn., erected a small sawmill, about four miles west of Humboldt, Mr. Jarrell having the active management of the business. This mill was moved to Humboldt in 1879, at which time a small planing machine was added.

On January 20, 1880, the firm known as the Humboldt Buggy and Wagon Company began operations. This firm was composed of B. C. Jarrell, James Hamilton, Dr. J. E. D. Scott, and J. W. Philp, and was formed for the purpose of manufacturing high-grade wagons and buggies, of which a large number were made while this branch of the business was prosecuted.

In 1883 the manufacture of fruit packages was begun in a small way. This branch of the business was increased gradually from year to year until 1887, when the firm was reorganized, the interest of J. W. Philp and Dr. J. E. D. Scott (then deceased) being purchased by Jarrell and Hamilton; and J. R. Jarrell and B. F. Jarrell, sons of B. C. Jarrell, were made members of the firm.

Buggies and wagons were manufactured in a limited way for three or four years by the reorganized firm, when this branch of the business was discontinued.

On October 1, 1890, the interests of Col. James Hamilton was purchased and C. T. Jarrell was admitted, the firm then consisting of B. C. Jarrell and three sons, J. R., B. F., and C. T. Jarrell.

B. C. Jarrell continued at the head of the

PAGE 64

PHOTO:  MANUFACTURING PLANT OF B. C. JARRELL & CO.

firm until his death. After the death of Mr. Jarrell, his interest remained in the business until September 1, 1900, when J. R. Jarrell, B. F. Jarrell, and C. T. Jarrell became sole proprietress, operating the business under the old firm name of B. C. Jarrell & Co.

The demand for building material and fruit packages of all kinds, especially the latter, has increased to such an extent that the manufactory now is one of the largest in West Tennessee, and its product is shipped to many of the States of the Union. The machinery and buildings for carrying on the work cover a large area of ground and the establishment gives employment to a vast force. The manufactory has its own electric light plant and every appliance for the work, both in the latest improved machinery and commodious buildings and warehouses for the storage of finished product.

B. C. Jarrell, the founder of the B. C. Jarrell plant, was born on a farm on Wilson County, Tenn., near the town of Lebanon, on February 5, 1836. He left the farm on attaining manhood and engaged in the milling business in his native county, prosecuting the same until his removal to Gibson County in 1870. His career in business in Gibson County was continuously successful, being marked by unusual correctness of judgment and industry. In public life he was esteemed for his usefulness and in private life beloved for his virtues. An epitome of his character may be embraced in a few words. He was enterprising, prompt, and honorable in business affairs; and in  his social relations he exemplified the character and fulfilled the duties of a sincere Christian gentleman. He died, universally refretted by his fellow citizens, on April 6, 1900.

PHOTO:  B. C. Jarrell

PAGE 65

Dodson Plow Company -- Biographical Sketch of W. H. Dodson

W. H. Dodson was born in Halifax County, Va., on June 8, 1815. He was the second son of William T. and Sallie (Young) Dodson, both native Virginians. His father was a farmer and mechanic; was married in 1811, but came with his family from his native State to Davidson County, Tenn., in 1823 and died in 1832, preceded by his wife several years. Of the nine children, five lived to be grown.

W. H. Dodson was about eight years of age when he came to Tennessee, and was left an orphan at seventeen. He attended school only about six weeks after he attained youthful age; however, by his own efforts he acquired a very good practical education. Being thus thrown upon his own resources at an early age, he began work on the river, working on a keel, flat, and steamboat. In 1836 he steered a flat from Nashville to New Orleans, continuing to follow boating for several years on the Tennessee, Cumberland, Forked Deer, Yalabusha, Yazoo, Tallahatchie, and Big Black Rivers. By his frugality he saved some money and began trading in stock and poultry from Nashville to New Orleans.

In 1841 he moved from Nashville to West Tennessee and settled in Eaton, Gibson County, becoming engaged in the family grocery business, boating on the Forked Deer River, and trading in New Orleans. In 1846 he associated himself with James A. Harwood, adding dry goods to the business. In this relationship he continued for three years, at the close of which time he sold out to Mr. Harwood. He then engaged in farming, sawmilling, and the stock business, in which business he continued until the breaking out of the Civil War. After this he returned to Eaton and again resumed general merchandising business, in company with his son-in-law, J. R. Dance. After two years Mr. Dance retired from the business and Mr. T. C. Patterson

PHOTO:  Dodson Plow Works

PAGE 66

was admitted as a partner; but in 1879 the firm of Dodson & Patterson was dissolved, the former retiring, and the business was continued by Patterson & Bros. With this the subject of our sketch closed his career in the general merchandising business, and in 1871 moved to Trenton, Tenn., but remained there only a short time.

PHOTO:  W. H. Dodson

Coming to Humboldt in the year 1872, Mr. Dodson purchased a one-half interest in the plow factory and foundry of William Jarrell, at the place, the latter gentleman being the inventor and owner of the celebrated Jarrell plow, cotton scraper and planter, known throughout the South and West. The first year they added a flouring mill to the other business. This business relation continued to 1878, when Mr. Dodson purchased the entire interest of Mr. Jarrell and continued the business in his own name, assisted in the management by his son, C. J. Dodson. On September 1, 1895, the firm was again changed, the new firm being styled "The Dodson Plow Company," Mr. C. J. Dodson being admitted as a partner. Mr. Dodson did the principal traveling for the different firms for twenty-seven years. Notwithstanding the fact that he was actively engaged in the manufacturing business all these years, he was very public-spirited along other lines.

In 1887 he and others organized and established the Farmers and Merchants' Bank of Humboldt, his son, Mr. A. R. Dodson being elected cashier.

In 1889 he also organized and established the Haywood County Bank, of Brownsville, Tenn., his son, W. W. Dodson, being elected assistant cashier.

In 1893 Mr. Dodson and Mr. E. A. Collins organized and established the Milan Banking Company, of Milan, Tenn., his son, L. P. Dodson, being elected assistant cashier.

In 1895 he organized and established the Farmers and Merchants' Bank, of Dyer, Tenn., his grandson, Russell Dance, being elected cashier.

On January 9, 1843, Mr. Dodson married Sarah T. Morton, who died on August 16 of the same year. On June 17, 1847, he wedded J. A. Blakemore, daughter of W. T. and Jane R. Blakemore, and of ten children born to them five are yet living, viz: W. W., Ida (Mrs. W. H. Gregory), C. J., A. R., and L. P. Dodson.

In May, 1897, Mr. Dodson made a visit to his old home in Brooklyn, Halifax County, Va., returning after an absence of seventy-five years; but he could find no one living in the little village who was as old as he, or could tell him anything about the village of his boyhood days, and there was nothing left by which he could trace where the "old home" used to stand.

On June 17, 1897, Mr. and Mrs. Dodson celebrated their fiftieth anniversary, or golden wedding, on which occasion their children, grandchildren, and quite a number of their old friends were present.

On August 8, 1898, death came to the once happy home and took from it his lifelong companion and dearly beloved wife. Mr. Dodson was a man of strong constitution and enjoyed exceptionally good health until after the death of his wife, when his health began to fail. He died on February 2, 1901, rich and ripe in many graces.

Mr. Dodson was a Democrat and a Mason, and he and his wife were for many years very active and devoted members of the Missionary Baptist Church, the former being senior deacon

PAGE 67

of the church at Humboldt, Tenn., at the time of his death. He was liberal with his means and always willing to help those in distress, and never turned away any who asked him for help without giving. In business affairs he was always willing to help those who were worthy and striving to help themselves. He commenced life without a penny, and yet by honest and hard work accumulated quite a fortune. He assisted very largely with his means in building the handsome First Baptist Church at this place in 1897, and also the beautiful parsonage erected in the fall of 1900, and was a liberal contributor to all the calls of his church.

Mr. C. J. Dodson, the present owner and operator of the Dodson Plow Company, is a native of West Tennessee. He was educated in I.O.O.F. College, Humboldt; University of Tennessee, Knoxville; and Eastman Business College, Poughkeepsie, N.Y.; and he is a man of considerable experience, having been engaged in active business since about 1880. He is a very practical man, having been engaged in the wholesale business in Memphis for a short while, and for many years associated with his father in the manufacturing business, having had the management of his large manufacturing interest since 1895 and been a partner with him from that time until his death, since which time he has been sole owner of the Dodson Plow Company. His firm is one of the best known in this section, doing an extensive business in the South and West. His company is the sole manufacturer of the Jarrell cast plows and cotton scrapers; they also make a line of chilled plows and enjoy a large trade, especially throughout Tennessee, Arkansas, Mississippi, Louisiana, Missouri, Alabama, and Texas.

The Humboldt Cotton Mills

This is the largest manufacturing establishment in Gibson County. It is situated just outside the corporate limits of the city of Humboldt and covers, with its tenements for employees, and area of fourteen acres of ground. The mills are operated by a stock company, incorporated under the general laws of the State, the stockholders being citizens of Humboldt and vicinity. The organization was effected in May, 1900, with an authorized capital of $100,000. The plant consists of a main factory building 125 feet wide by 206 feet in length, one story high; separate boiler and engine rooms, with capacity for doubling power of plant; standard warehouse 40 x 100 feet, all brick. The power consists of a Lane & Bodley Columbian Corless Engine of 100-horse power, made with provision for an additional cylinder and boiler to increase power to 400-horse. For the convenience of employees there are upon the factory grounds fifteen four-room and ten two-room cottages -- all bright, clean, and comfortable.

The entire operating equipment of the mills is of the newest pattern in every department. The plant has a capacity for 15,000 spindles and 400 looms. At present 4,000 spindles and 100 looms are in operation, using 2,000 bales of cotton per annum and giving employment to 100 operatives.

The mill has its own electric lighting and water supply system, the former consisting of a 30 K.W. generator and the latter of a 300-foot well, with a force pump and an 80,000-gallon reservoir on the south wall of the main building.

Every modern appliance for the extinguishment

PAGE 68

PHOTO:  HUMBOLDT COTTON MILLS

of fire is provided, embracing a powerful force pump, automatic sprinklers, and hose reaching every part of the plant.

The special goods manufactured are four-yard sheetings of a grade and quality that have already secured a high standing in the market, though its looms were but recently started.

The officers of the institution are: H. C. Burnett, president; C. H. Ferrell, vice president; R. L. Beare, secretary; A. R. Dodson, treasurer. Directors: H. C. Burnett, C. H. Ferrell, R. L. Beare, A. R. Dodson, J. R. Jerrell, James Gillen, and W. W. Baird. T. H. Lever is superintendent.

Humboldt Marble Works

The cut given shows the carving department of the Humboldt Marble Works, one of the thriving industries of this progressive city. These works have been in operation for almost a quarter of a century and have established trade throughout the South and

PHOTO:  INTERIOR VIEW OF HUMBOLDT MARBLE WORKS

PAGE 69

Southwest. Mr. James Gillen, who owns and operates the works, has a thorough knowledge of the business, having served at the trade for several years before establishing his present factory.

The reputation of the Humboldt Marble Works for painstaking and promptitude in the execution of orders, acquired by many years of strict business attention, has contributed largely to the extent and volume of its business. The industry is an important feature of Humboldt's manufacturing interests. It gives employment to about thirty skilled workmen, at good wages. The pay roll of the establishment amounts to upwards of $300 per week. I am informed by representatives of the two railroads serving Humboldt that the freight charges on materials -- raw and finished -- delivered to and from this factory is a principal item in the railroad business of the city.

Humboldt Spoke Factory

Frank X. Foltz, proprietor of the Humboldt Spoke Factory, is a native of Indiana, and was born on a farm near Madison, in Ripley County. After the death of his father ad division of his estate, Mr. Foltz concluded he would change his business, and went to work in a livery stable; then he learned the spoke

PHOTO:  FRANK X. FOLTZ

business, and moved with Weis & Sons to Union City, Tenn. After leaving Union City he came with Beck & Gardner to Humboldt and worked with them until they sold their factory to the American Wheel Company. He then acted as foreman for this company until their plant was burned down in 1891. Mr. Foltz then started a factory

PHOTO:  HUMBOLDT SPOKE WORKS

PAGE 70

of his own, which he has successfully operated since. The capacity of his factory is 7,000 spokes per day. Material is obtained along the Louisville and Nashville and the Mobile and Ohio Railroads and by wagon transportation. The products of this factory are marketed in Illinois, Michigan, Ohio, South Carolina, Canada, and, in fact , all over the world. He manufactures all kinds and sizes of oak and hickory spokes, plain wood hub, Sarven patent and shell hand, finished and complete.

Mr. Foltz is a prominent and highly esteemed citizen. He is a man of push and enterprise, and is always for everything that will advance the interests of his town.

Humboldt Hoop and Heading Company

This important woodworking industry was established in 1898 by Mr. I. H. Dungan. In 1901 he took in as a partner Mr. W. H. Shimwell, of Erin, Tenn. The firm is engaged in the manufacture of coiled elm hoops and slack barrel heading. They also operate a sawmill in connection with their other business. The output of the plant in 1900 was 300,000 sets of heading, 1,500,000 hoops, and 1,500,000 feet of lumber, involving a value of over $30,000. The output of the current year will exceed this. They employ in the various departments of the business some forty or more people.

W. H. Shimwell

Mr. W. H. Shimwell, one of the proprietors of the Humboldt Hoop and Heading Company, was born in Stewart County in 1864. At an early age his parents moved to Erin, Houston County, where he was educated. On arriving at manhood he engaged in the woodworking business, manufacturing staves, heading, etc, which he has followed for fifteen years. In 1887 he married Miss Julia McMillin, of Erin, by which union he has three children. He moved to Humboldt in 1897, and for two years engaged in the mercantile business. In the beginning of the present year he sold out his mercantile business and became a partner with Mr. I. H. Dungan in the operation of the Humboldt Hoop and Heading Factory.

Mr. Shimwell is a zealous member of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church of Humboldt, and also of the Masonic and Odd Fellow fraternities of the same place. He is highly esteemed in both business and social circles.

Humboldt Ice Factory and Bottling Works

This plant was established in 1890 by Robert Beare, Taylor Beare, and William Beare, and operated by them under the firm name of Beare Bros. This is one of the prosperous manufactories of Humboldt.

The product of the factory is marketed throughout the county and along the lines of

PHOTO:  BEARE BROS' ICE FACTORY AND BOTTLING PLANT