| J. A. Tinder is a son of Richard and Nannie (Quisenberry) Tinder, and was born in Orange County, Va., in 1844. His father was of English descent and was born in Orange County, Va., in 1819. He was a farmer, and was married when about twenty years of age. In 1862 he entered the Confederate Army as second lieutenant and served under Gen. Lee’s youngest son until 1864, when he was detailed to other duty and served until the close of the war. He died in October, 1881. Mrs. Tinder was born in the same State and county as her husband in 1821, and died in 1844. After her death Mr. Tinder married Miss Frances Tinder. Our subject was educated in the common schools, and was teaching school when the war broke out. In April, 1861, he joined Company E, Ninth Virginia Cavalry, and served throughout the war. He was engaged in all the battles of the Virginia campaign, except Gettysburg, when he was a prisoner. He surrendered with Lee at Appomattox Courthouse, then returned home and resumed teaching. In August, 1867, he went to Iowa, and for two years was engaged in the insurance business in Iowa, Illinois and Missouri. He then resided in Kentucky until 1871, when he came to Gadsden and farmed until 1876. Since that time he has been a prosperous general merchant of the town. He is a man of good business qualifications and is doing well financially. In February, 1873, he married Tennessee, daughter of Thomas W. and Mary F. Armes. Of eight children born to them six are living: Richard, Egbert, Bernice, James T., George and Mary D. Mr. Tinder is a Democrat, and cast his first presidential vote for J. C. Breckenridge. He and wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church South. |
