Stephen Chitwood is one of the substantial farmers of the Seventh District of Dyer County and is the son of Squire and Mary (Ray) Chitwood. He was born in Virginia, in 1806, being one of ten children, only three surviving - Susan, wife of C. Ray, Green and himself. His father was a native of Virginia, where he was raised, married, and in 1830 died; he was also a farmer. Our subject was raised at home, receiving only a limited education. In 1835 he moved to Dyer County, and purchased 100 acres of land. In 1856 he sold this tract and bought 340 acres where he now resides, four miles southeast of Newbern. The land is exceedingly good, and contains fine improvements. he also owns 300 acres of timbered land in the Eighth District, and he is one of the most extensive farmers in his district, his success being the result of his own efforts. After moving to Tennessee, he spent one year in Mississippi, and three in Arkansas as a overseer; in politics was previously a Whig. Mr. Chitwood belongs to the Methodist Episcopal Church South and commands the respect and confidence of all who know him.