J. F. Williamson, a cabinet-maker, residing in Newbern, Tenn., was born in Rowan County, N. C., February 22, 1823, and was one of six children, two only surviving, his brother, T. A., living one and a half miles from Newbern, and himself. His parents were Thomas and Rachel Williamson; his father was a farmer, born in North Carolina, in 1775, and died in 1849. His mother was also born in the same State a few years later, and died in 1825. Mr. J. F. Williamson was raised and educated at home. December 31, 1846, he married Sarah F. Williamson, who was born in North Carolina, May 10, 1823, and they have had six children: Mary J. (wife of T. J. Mays), Julia (wife of B. W. Oliver), Laura, Lucy J. (wife of F. C. Moore), Henry F. and Thomas V. Mr. Williamson moved to Dyer County in November, 1853. At that time Newbern had two small stores, a blacksmith shop, and a saddler's shop. He began his trade of cabinet-making, and has since followed it with success. In 1858 he was elected corporation justice of the peace, and filled the position until 1865, and was then appointed by Gov. Brown, magistrate of the Sixth District, and has held the place most of the time since. In 1853 there were but two sawmills in the neighborhood, and they were run by horse-power. Mr. Williamson has raised quite a family, giving his children good educational advantages, and he is greatly respected by all who know him. He is a Democrat, but cast his first presidential vote for Henry Clay. Mr. and Mrs. Williamson are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.