THURMAN Biographies

SEARCHES FAMILY TREES MAILING LISTS MESSAGE BOARDS

THURMAN's QUEST

Left Knight

Allen Granberry Thurman (1813 - 1895)
Vice Presidential Candidate - 1888

Right Knight

THURMAN BIOGRAPHIES

Mr. Allen G. Thurman	Mr. J. Hunter Peak, MD	Mrs. Eury Hedges	Mr. Robert M. Alexander
Mr. C. Hicks, MD	Mr. Whitfield Hughes Thurman	Mr. W. H. Asher	Mr. Floyd Thurman
Mr. A. D. McFee	Mr. Allen Thurman	Mr. Robert Livingston Thurman	Mr. Alexander Thurman
Mr's. T. B. and J. L. Terry	Mr. Alfred Thurman	Mr. William L. Crandell, MD	Mr. Elisha Thurman
Mr. David Crawford Thoroman	Mr. Albert Morton Thoroman	Mr. Joseph Thurman	Mr. Richard Scott Thurman
Mr. Arthur M. Thurman	Mrs. Arlene (Lawrenz) Thurman	Mr. James Richard Hisle	Mr. David L. Perkins
Mr. Roy Winfield "Silas" Thurman	Mr. Edward Moroni Thurman	Mr. Clayborne Martin Thurman	Mr. Joseph M. and Mr. George W. Thurman
Mr. John Thurmon's Pension Application	Mr. George Washington Thurman	--	--

Allen G. Thurman, Candidate for the vice-presidency of the United States on the Democratic ticket in 1888, is one of the most thorough scholars in public life in this country. Always a student, he became early in life a great lawyer, and since then has devoted much time ot lighter study. He is a fine French scholar, and his favorite books are the works of the earlier French dramatists, which he reads in the original. He has an unusually large and well selected library, and there are few books in the range of polite literature that he is not familiar with.
Mr. Thurman has a literal genius for mathematics, and frequently occupies himself in working out the most abstruse and intricate problems. He says that he is prouder of his knowledge of mathematics than he is of anything else. He had no collegiate training, and has no diploma save the certificate of a grammar school. He was born at Lynchburg, in the state of Virginia. His grandfather fought in the revolution, and his mother came of very distinguished revolutionary stock. When but six years of age his parents removed to Ohio, where he now holds the highest esteem of both political parties, being a statesman of learning, experience and lofty character. He studied law with ex-Gov. Allen and Judge Swayne, and was admitted to the bar when but twenty-two years of age.
After having practiced law for some years at Columbus, Ohio, he was returned as representative to the twenty-ninth congress. He was put on the judiciary committee of the house, and soon became distinguished as a great lawyer. Declining a re-election at the close of his term, he retired, as he thought, to private life for good and all.
But in 1851, when the new constitution of Ohio was adopted, he was pressed into the race for a supreme court judgeship and was elected. He sat upon the bench for four years, the last two years serving as chief justice.
In 1867, after a season of rest, he was put forward as the democratic candidate for the governorship against Rutherford B. Hayes. There was clearly no chance for a domocratic victory, the republican majority the year before having been forty-three thousand. Under Judge Thurman's sledge-hammer blows, however, this enormous majority was beaten down to a trifle less than three thousand; and the legislature was captured by a decisive majority, insuring the defeat of Ben Wade, and Judge Thurman was elected in Mr. Wade's stead, and took his seat in the senate in 1869, and received the re-election in 1874.
As a representative of the American government in the international congress at Paris in 1881, he visited France; afterward he visited Switzerland, the Rhine, Belgium, England and Scotland. His health was very much improved by his European trip, and he was delighted with his journey, which had lasted about six months.
This fine old statesman has several times been strongly supported as a democratic candidate for the presidency. It was not, therefore, surprising that he was nominated for vice-president. He is well known throughout the United States as a great lawyer, jurist and statesman.
Source: Prominent Men and Women of the Day, Copyright: 1888 A. B. Gehman & Co. Author/Editor Thos. W. Herringshaw
NOTE:--
FATHER is the Reverand Pleasant Thurman (Born: 23 Oct 1783 in Pittsylvania,Virginia - Died: 13 Feb 1856 Chillicothe,Ross,Ohio and is Buried in the Grandview Cem,,Highland,Ohio. -- MOTHER is Mary Granberry ALLEN (Born Bef 1790 in Edenton,Chowan,North Carolina - Died Unknown) -- WIFE is Mary Anderson DUN (Born: 2 May 1812 in Blandford,Prince George,Virginia - Died 8 Nov 1835) who married 1st, 8 Sep 1835, Gwynne R TOMPKINS and married 2nd, 14 Nov 1844, Allen Granberry Thurman. This family may be found located in the THURMAN's Quest Homepage.

Mrs Eury Hedges was born in Virginia in 1803, a daughter of John B. and Margaret (Osborn) Thurman, both natives of Virginia. J. B. Thurman was a son of John and Nancy, who were also born in Virginia. J. B. was a Revolutionary soldier. Mrs. Thurman was a daughter of John and Rachael (Mead) Osborn. Our subject was married November 20, 1820, to Robert W. Hedges, of Virginia, son of John and Mary (Wells) Hedges, and had ten children--four living: Stephen (who married Mary Slaughter, and has four children: John M., Malissa, Hillrey and Tilford), Hillery (who married Cora Skeell, and had three children: Samuel, Lillie and Ella), Eliza M. (who married Huston Hedges, and had three children: Annie, J. B. and T. G. Hedges), and Robert C., who was born March 20, 1849, and is at home with his mother. Robert C. is a Democrat.
Source: Kentucky: A History of the State, Battle, Perrin, & Kniffin, 1887,

C. Hicks, M. D.. of Caborn, Ind., was born October 22, 1847, in Kentucky, son of James and Ann (Reed) Hicks. James is of English descent, and was born in North Carolina, in 1820, and followed the life of an agriculturist. He and wife are residents of Kentucky. Our subject's literary education was acquired in the common schools and in the academy at Cairo, Ky. At the age of twenty he began the study of medicine under Dr. J.T. Bethel, of Pool's Mills, Ky., continuing with him about a year. He attended a course of lectures at the University of Louisville, Ky., during 1870-71, after which he located in Dalton, Ky., and began the practice of his profession. In the fall of 1871 he returned to Louisville, and graduated from the medical college of that place in March, 1872. He then practiced his profession with Dr. Bethel about a year and then came to Posey County, Ind., and located at Caborn. September 24, 1873, he was married to Alice Thurman, daughter of Rev. Elijah and Malissa (Spencer) Thurman. She was born October 27, 1854, and is the mother of these three children: Lela, Harry S. and James. The Doctor is a Democrat and is considered an efficient physician and surgeon by all who know him. He is a Mason.
Source: History of Posey County Indiana, The Goodspeed Publishing Co., Chicago, 1886. Reprinted by Unigraphic, Inc., Evansville, IN 1967 [Henderson Co]

W. H. Asher, Crittenden County, was born in Humbolt, Gibson Co., Tenn., March 9, 1828, and is the son of William R. and Easter C. (Love) Asher. His parents were born in South Carolina, his mother being an own cousin to John C. Calhoun. His grandparents on both sides came to Caldwell County, Ky., in an early day, and his parents were married here. Soon afterward they moved to Gibson County, where they resided until 1835, then came to Kentucky and settled in Crittenden County, where the father died February 18, 1869; the mother April 18, 1868. Subject is the seventh of eleven children, of whom seven are living: T.S.C. in Missouri; Jane Hurley, in Livingston County; Narcissa Robenson, in the Indian Territory; W.H. (subject), Walter M., in Shady Grove; R.L., in Missouri, and D.C. in Illinois. Subject remained on the home farm until twenty-one years old and then settled down for himself near the old homestead, where he remained until 1867. He then came to his present farm, where he now owns about 600 acres of land, with about 200 acres in cultivation. He pays considerable attention to stock raising, and is also engaged in buying and rehandling tobacco. Mr. Asher was married March 21, 1849, to Miss M.A. Crider, daughter of Samuel J. and Polk (Foster) Crider, natives of Virginia. Mrs. Asher was born in Crittenden County, and is the mother of ten children: Nancy J., wife of T.A. O’Neal; Mary, wife of Joseph Samuels; Sarah J., wife of P. O’Neal; Henrietta, wife of B.H. Thurman; Elizabeth B., wife of W.D. Lamb; Eastus C., W.L.J.D., Kittie and Samuel. Mrs. Asher and family are members of the Cumberland Presybterian Church. Mr. Asher is a member of the Bigham Lodge, No. 256, A.F. & A. of Marion, and Wingate Council No. 35.
Source: Kentucky: A History of the State, Battle, Perrin, Kniffin 2nd ed., 1885 Crittenden Co.

A. D. McFee, Crittenden County, was born near Belfast, Ireland, March 10, 1827, and is a son of Edward and Jane (Douglas) McFee. His father was born in Ireland; his mother was born in Scotland, and was a descendant of that famous Douglas, who defended Scotland so nobly. In 1837, the parents came to this country, settling first on Staten Island, where they remained about two years, then came West, and settled in Boone County, Ky.; there the father died in December, 1876, and the mother in January, 1877. They were both members of the old Scotch Presbyterian Church. Subject is the fourth of a family of five children, of whom three are now living: Elizabeth, wife of James Evatt, of Canada; Andrew, in Cincinnati, and Arthur D. The latter received his education in the schools of New York, Ohio and Kentucky, and began life for himself at the age of twenty years. For eight years he followed boating on the river; he then returned to Boone County, where he farmed for a short time. He then went to Newport, and engaged in the livery business for two years; subsequently returned to Boone County, and there farmed until December, 1879, when he came to Crittenden County, and settled on his present farm, where he now owns about 344 acres, with about 175 acres in cultivation. Mr. McFee was married January 5, 1858, to Miss Anna V. Marquess, daughter of Miles and Mahala B. (Dennison) Marquess. Her parents were born in Orange County, Va., came to Boone County, Ky., in an early day, and resided there until their death. Mrs. McFee was born in Florence, Boone Co, Ky., January 26, 1841, and is the mother of seven children, of whom five are living: Edward M., Georgenia, Myrtle D., wife of E.E. Thurman; Arthur D. and Florence B. Mrs. McFeee is a member of the Christian Church. Mr. McFee is a member of the Cincinnati lodge, A.O.U.W.
Source: Kentucky: A History of the State, Battle, Perrin, Kniffin 2nd ed., 1885 Crittenden Co.

Robert Livingston Thurman, son of that excellent minister of Christ, David Thurman, was born in Washington county, Kentucky, November 19, 1815. He was taken by his parents to what is now LaRue county, while he was a small child. Here he was raised upon farm. He was converted to Christ at the early age of thirteen years, and was baptized by his father into the fellowship of Nolin church. He finished his education at Georgetown College, where he graduated in 1842. He was ordained pastor of Severns Valley church, in Elizabethtown, July 25, 1843. He served this church about seven years, conducting a female seminary about half of that time. In January, 1850, he was appointed agent for Indian Missions, and in May following, became one of the editors of the Baptist Banner, published at Louisville. In 1851 he accepted an agency for Georgetown College, which he prosecuted about four years. In 1855, he accepted a call to the pastoral care of the Baptist church in Austin, Texas. He remained in that position only a few months during which time he collected funds to erect a house of worship for that church. In October of the same year, he was appointed agent of the Foreign Mission Board of the Southern Baptist Convention, for the State of Kentucky. He prosecuted this agency with satisfactory success, until 1861, when he resigned on account of the war. He was then appointed Superintendent of the Executive Board of the General Association. In 1868, he resumed the Foreign Mission agency for Kentucky, and has prosecuted it with a good degree of success, to the present time (1885). Mr. Thurman has been an enthusiastic advocate of missions from his youth, and has been just styled "the prince of agents." The cause of missions, both foreign and domestic, owes much to his unflagging zeal and tireless energy.
Source: A History of Kentucky Baptists From 1769 to 1885, Including More Than 800 Biographical Sketches, J. H. Spencer, Manuscript Revised and Corrected by Mrs. Burilla B. Spencer, In Two Volumes. Printed For the Author. 1886. Republished By Church History Research & Archives 1976 Lafayette, Tennessee. Vol. 2, pp 77-78 [Washington County]

T. B. and J. L. Terry. Stephen Terry, the grandfather of our subjects, was a native of the "Old Dominion," and died in the "Old Dominion." His father was by birth a Scotchman, and his mother an Irish lady of rank. His son, Alfred Terry, was born in Botetourt County, Va., about 1800, and when a lad came with his parents to Kentucky. He married Miss Sallie Young, and to them were born eleven children, eight of whom are living: Sallie D., John L., Powhatan, Ellen T., Theophilus B., David C., Peter D. and William S. Mrs. Terry was born in 1810, and is yet living. Her parents, Edward and Polly Young, were natives of Kentucky, and residents of Barren County. Alfred Terry died at the age of fifty-seven; he was a man of considerable local prominence, and was, as is also his wife, a consistent member of the Christian Church. His son, Theophilus B. Terry, was born in Barren County, February 25, 1847, and grew to manhood on the home farm. His early education was obtained in the common schools, where he learned the rudiments of English. His education is mostly practical, having been acquired through his contact with business affairs. He is unmarried and resides near the homestead farm, which his mother owns and his brothers cultivate. This farm of 200 acres is well improved and mostly cultivated. The water privileges are excellent and the land adapted to stock raising, to which branch of farming they give considerable attention. John L. Terry, the elder brother, was born in 1839. His eduction was such as could be obtained in the common schools. Home reading and practical business training, with prudence and industry, have carried him safely to success as a farmer. He married, November 19, 1866, Miss Sallie M. Thurman, daughter of Robert and Nancy Thurman, of Lincoln County, Ky. They are blessed in their union by the birth of one daughter, Laura May. The brothers Terry are Democrats; they take some interest in political questions, but their time is principally devoted to their farming interests.
Source: Kentucky: A History of the State, Battle, Perrin, & Kniffin, 3rd ed., 1886. Barren County.

William L. Crandell, M. D. , McLean County, was born August 16, 1844, in Bullitt County, Ky., and is the son of Dr. Samuel W. and Margaret (Goff) Crandell, natives of Brandenburg and Nelson Counties, Ky., respectively. Dr. Samuel W. Crandell (subject's father) was first lieutenant in the Eight[h] Kentucky Federal Cavalry for eighteen months, after which he became assistant surgeon of the regiment; he resigned in 1864, and returned home. The mother of subject was a daughter of Edwin Goff, who married Elizabeth Thurman, both natives of Virginia. Subject received a common school education, and in June, 1862, enlisted in Company I, Sixth Kentucky Cavalry, under Capt. Ed. Penn. He participated in the battles of Chickamauga, Resaca and Nashville and was in numerous skirmishes with Morgan's men; went with Sherman on his march to the sea, as far as Macon, Ga. He was discharged in June, 1865, at Nashville, as second sergeant, and returned to his home in Louisville, Ky., where he engaged as salesman in a general store for ten months. Then moved to Sacramento, McLean, County; engaged in saw-milling one year, and then returned to Louisville, and attended a course at the Kentucky School of Medicine in the winter of 1867-68; same spring he located in Ashbysburgh, Hopkins County, and commenced practice. In 1870, he moved to Hamilton County, Mo., and in 1872, to southern Illinois; in 1874, he located in Slaughterville, Webster County, and one year later located at Beach Grove, where he has been engaged in his profession ever since, except eighteen months at Lewisport, Hancock County. He was married December 21, 1870, to Mrs. Mary Saunders of Saline County, Mo., a daughter of Lemuel G. Tucker; she died in February, 1876. He afterward married May 21, 1878, Georgia E. Harper, of McLean County, a daughter of John H. and C. E. (Walters) Harper, who were born respectively in Pennsylvania in 1812, and Wheeling, W. Va., in 1822. Two children were born to this union, one of whom is still living. Dr. Crandell is a member of the Masonic order, and a Democrat. He gave his first vote for George B. McClellan, and his last for Grover Cleveland. He is at present chairman of the board of village trustees, and the board of education.
Source: Kentucky: A History of the State, Battle, Perrin, & Kniffin, 2nd ed., 1885, McLean Co.

J. Hunter Peak, M. D.--The city of Louisville, with it flourishing industrial activities and rapid development, has attracted within it confines men of ability and high character in the various professional lines and in this way progress has been conserved and social stability fostered. He whose name introduces this review has gained recognition as a scientist and as one of the able and successful surgeons of the province, and by his labors, his high professional attainments and his sterling characteristics has justified the respect and confidence in which he is held by the medical fraternity and by the public at large. J. Hunter Peak was born near Bardstown, Kentucky, June 14, 1865, the son of John and Sarah (Coy) Peak, both native born Kentuckians. John, the father, was born near Lebanon, Marion county, Kentucky, in 1843, and died in 1878. The mother of this subject was born near New Haven, Kentucky, in 1844, and died in 1870. She was the daughter of John and Dolly Coy. In 1872 the elder Peak moved the family to Texas, where he died, and it was in that state that Dr. Peak was reared to manhood. He received his literary education at Garden Valley Institute, Texas, where he was graduated in 1887, and which prepared him to take up the practical and responsible duties of life. He began teaching in Ellis county and taught there four years and then taught two years in Young county. His choice of a life work fell upon the medical profession, and while teaching school he read medicine and in 1891 he matriculated in Louisville, Kentucky, Medical College, where he was graduated in 1894. He then took a post graduate course at the Kentucky School of Medicine. He then located in Louisville and engaged in the practice of his profession, where an energetic nature and strong mentality has enabled him long since to pass from the ranks of the many and stand among the successful and prominent few. In 1895 Dr. Peak was elected a member of the Louisville General Council from the Third ward, and after serving almost two years in that body resigned to accept a position as United States pension surgeon, which position he held for four years. In 1899 he was appointed special United States pension surgeon, which position he resigned in 1903 to look after his private practice, as he preferred to concentrate his energies upon his professional work. After Dr. Peak resigned from office he turned his entire professional attention to surgery, and has made it an exclusive specialty ever since. In the fall of 1909 he was elected to represent the Fourth and Fifth wards of the city as a member of the Louisville School Board, which position he now holds and will be a member of the last board under the present law. Dr. Peak is a member of the Jefferson County Medical Society, the Kentucky State Medical Society and the American Medical Association. He is a member of the masonic order, belonging to Preston Lodge, No. 281, F. & A. M., Louisville, Kentucky, and to Scottish Rite Consistory, Southern Jurisdiction. The Doctor's religious convictions are evidenced by his connection with the Methodist Episcopal church, being a member of the same, chairman of its Board of Trustees, chairman of the Sunday-school Board and past superintendent of the Sunday-school. In politics he is a Republican but is non-partisan in local affairs. Dr. Peak married Estella Thurman of Louisville, Kentucky, the daughter of Sanford H. Thurman, of the Kentucky family of that name, who married Mary Jane Irvin, of the old Kentucky Irvin family. To the Doctor and wife two children has been born, as follows: Maricita, aged thirteen years, and Calena, aged fourteen years. The record of Dr. Peak's life is an upright and straightforward one, his success has been achieved along the lines of legitimate activity and unfaltering energy and he has well earned the uniform regard that is extended to him by the professional as well as business men of the state.
Source: HISTORY OF KENTUCKY AND KENTUCKIANS, E. Polk Johnson, three volumes, Lewis Publishing Co., New York & Chicago, 1912. Common version, Vol. III, pp. 1232-33. [Full page photograph of Mr. Peak included with bio.] [Jefferson County]

Mr Robert M. Alexander, was born August 18, 1831. His father, Joseph Alexander, was born in Henry County, Va., July 30, 1780; he was a man of good business education and a good business man. He was married in Henry County, Va., on March 7, 1807 to Miss Ann C. Bouldin, of Charlotte County, Va., and to them were born four children: Fayette W., Ann Clark, Sarah Martin (Baker), and Hugh Nelson, of whom only Ann Clark (Baker) is now living. Mrs. Alexander departed this life aged about thirty, and is buried in Henry County, Va. The second marriage of Joseph Alexander occurred in Charlotte County, Va., December 10, 1818, to Miss Sarah Bouldin, a daughter of Thomas and Lucy Bouldin, of whom Thomas Bouldin emigrated from England and settled in Maryland, but afterward married in Virginia and lived in Charlotte County. He received a land grant from George II, and cultivated this tract of several thousand acres, by slave labor, naming it "Golden Hill," a name which it still retains. He was a man of considerable wealth. In 1824 Joseph Alexander immigrated to Kentucky, and settled a tract of 400 acres in Cumberland County, which land he acquired by purchase. He turned his attention partly to agriculture, cultivating his farm by slave labor, and partly to the manufacture of tobacco, which he carried on at his home four miles northeast of Burkesville. He was elected sheriff of Cumberland County, under the provisions of the old constitution, by which the senior magistrate became sheriff, and for several years was master commissioner of the county. He also held the position of commissioner of common schools, and also that of assessor of the county, and in 1839 was elected on the Whig ticket to represent Cumberland County in the lower house of the Kentucky Legislature. He also held many other responsible positions, not of a public character; was guardian and administrator, and a man in whom the people of his county trusted. Seven children were born to his last marriage: Richard B., Milton J., Thomas Tyler, Martha B., wife of Rev. Martin Baker; Margaret, who died in infancy; Joseph H.M. and Dr. Robert M., of whom only Thomas Tyler and Dr. Alexander are living. Mrs. Alexander, who during life was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, died May 4, 1857, in the sixty-third year of her age. Joseph Alexander, who departed his life October 2, 1859, was a Whig in politics, a great admirer of Henry Clay, and an emancipationist, although he was a slave owner. He had lived in good easy circumstances during life, but on account of security, left only a small estate to his children. John Alexander was born in 1741, about four miles from Glasgow in Scotland, from which place he was brought by his father, John Alexander, to America, and to Henry County, Va., where he grew to manhood. His father became a prominent man in early Virginia politics. He was a member of the House of Burgesses of Virginia prior to the Revolution, and during the troubles and oppressions which brought about that event. He commanded a company of provincial troops in the struggle. His son John became a man of wealth in the county of Henry. He was married to Miss Lucy Martin, of Virginia, by whom he became the father of nine children: Thomas, John M., Ingram, Robert, Reuben, Phillip, Susan (Porter), Odedience (Gerhart) and Elizabeth (Smith). He immigrated to Kentucky, and settled on Marrowbone Creek, Cumberland County, in 1811, where he lived in affluent circumstances, and died aged eighty-eight, in 1830. Dr. Robert M. Alexander, a native of Cumberland County, in boyhood received a common-school education in the neighborhood schools of Cumberland County, attending a high school in Alabama one five month's term. His education is the result of home study, and close application after he had left school. In 1852 he began the study of medicine, under the preceptorship of Dr. T.Q. Walker of Haskinsville, Green County, and in the fall of 1853 began attending the lectures at the University of Louisville, graduating there in the spring of 1855. He then began the practice of his profession, in partnership with Dr. J.H. Cheek, which he continued until 1861. At this time he became assistant surgeon of the Fifth Cavalry (Federal service); but on account of ill health of his family was compelled to resign and return home. He then began the practice on his own account in Burkesville, which, with the exception of four years residence in Louisville, he has continued since. In 1874 he removed to Louisville and remained until 1879, when, on account of failing health, he returned to Burkesville, and re-entered the practice there. Dr. Alexander, on May 1, 1860, was united in marriage to Miss Ellen B. Alexander, a daughter of John M. Alexander, Jr., and Martha R. (Thurman) Alexander, the former a native of Virginia, the latter of Kentucky. John M. Alexander, a nephew of Joseph Alexander, was a son of Thomas Alexander, and Martha R. Thurman, who was a daughter of William Thurman, who was a distant relative of Hon. Allen G. Thurman of Ohio, and came from the same county in Virginia. To Dr. and Mrs. Alexander have been born ten children: John J., who is secretary of the Golden Placer Mining Company of New Mexico; Hortense C., Lavelle M., Robert A., and Mary C., who are living, and four sons and a daughter who died in infancy. Dr. Alexander has a lucrative practice in his profession, confined mostly to the practice of Medicine, with not a great deal of surgical work. He is also one of the board of medical examiners for pensions, and besides his medical practice, owns a young orange grove of 600 trees in Orange County, Fla. The plantation contains eighty acres of very valuable land in the richest and most valuable part of the State and also several hundred acres of valuable land in northern Texas. Dr. and Mrs. Alexander are both members of the Presbyterian Church, of which Dr. Alexander has been a ruling elder since he became a member in 1866. He was a Whig in politics in ante bellum days but since has been a member of the national Republican party. In 1859 he was elected on "opposition party" ticket (opposed to Democracy), to represent the counties of Cumberland and Clinton, in the lower house of the Kentucky Legislature, and he was present and took part in the deliberations of that body during one regular, and two extra sessions, in those times that "tried men's souls." With this exception he has never sought or held political position. In addition to the diploma which he received from the University of Louisville, he attended a five month's course of lectures at Jefferson College, Philadelphia, graduating there in the spring of 1863.
Source: KENTUCKY: A History of the State, Battle, Perrin, & Kniffin, 4th ed., 1887 Cumberland Co.

Whitfield Hughes Thurman; Farmer; Salem Township; born in Highland County, Ohio, March 27, 1822; educated in the common schools. His parents, Phillip and Jane (Powell) were born in the James River, Virginia. Phillip Thurman was a Methodist preacher in Ohio for sixty years. He brought nine slaves with him from Virginia, but when he reached Ohio, he set them free. He died at the age of eighty-two. Phillip Thurman's parents, Nathan and Fanny were natives of England. Nathan Thurman was for many years a Methodist preacher. Jane (Powell) Thurman's father was William Powell. January 3, 1815 (1845), Mr. W. H. Thurman was married to Pheba Jane Thurman in Bennington, Illinois. She was born in Highland County, Ohio, December 31 1826, being the daughter of Mark and Fanny (Marchant) Thurman. Of this union there were eight children; Dr. Newton Thurman, born March 3, 1845; Mary Jane, born October 15, 1847; Adeline, born February 4, 1850; Henry, born November 7, 1852; Fanny M. born July 24, 1855; Charles M. born December 31, 1859; William M. born December 3, 1862; and Ida Irene, born April 15, 1867. Mrs Thurman's father, Mark Thurman came to Illinois in 1829, where there were only three log cabins at Peoria, and the place was known as Fort Clark. He was born October 26, 1802, and his wife, October 3, 1806. He died October 26, 1845, and his wife, January 31, 1870. He was the first Justice of the Peace of Maquon Township and the first School Director. In 1844, he became a Campbellite. He is a republican.
Source: Submitted by Cynthia C. Griebel Cindyburd@aol.com 29 Jan 00.

Floyd Thurman, a prominent farmer and native of Spencer County, Ind., was born March 10, 1837. He was reared at home, and received such an education as the schools of those primitive times afforded. In the winter of 1859 he taught his first school. Two years later, July 22, 1861, he enlisted in Company F, First Indiana Cavalry, with which regiment he served until receiving his discharge in September, 1864. He participated in the battles of Fredericktown, Helena, Pine Bluff and numerous lesser engagements. After his return home he farmed for one year, after which he delivered coal to customers along the river from Rockport to Cannelton for three years. He then resumed farming, at which business he has since continued. March 23, 1875, he married Ellen Gilson to whom six children were born, four of whom, Oliver P., William G., George S. and Olive Dousie are living. Mr. Thurman is a son of William R. and Anna (Shrode) Thurman, natives of Virginia and Kentucky, respectively. His father came to Spencer County in 1818, and bought property in Ohio Township, where he remained until his death which occurred February 21, 1877. His mother died December 11, 1854.
Source: "History of Warrick, Spencer and Perry Counties, Indiana - Hammond Township" by Goodspeed Bros. & Co. - published in 1885

Alexander Thurman A summary of the lives of many of the residents of Knox County are detailed on her records and go to show what claim may be made to genuine manhood, citizenship, and a place among the active workers in life. Among those none was better fitted to draw forth approbation than that of our subject, whose home was situated on sec. 29, Maquon Township, who followed the vocation of farming until his demise, which occured in August, 1882.
He of whom we write, was born in Highland County, Ohio, Dec. 1, 1821. His parents were John G. and Dorothy (Strange) Thurman. They were natives of Ohio and Virginia, respectively. The father was born in 1795, and died in 1859(sic). The mother was born in 1799, and is now living with her son's wife at the advanced age of 87 years.
He came to Knox County in June, 1841, and six years later, on the 26th day of November, was married. After marriage he settled in Maquon Township, where he was actively engaged in following the avocation of an agriculturalist, and there met with extraordinary success until his decease, as above stated.
The maiden name of the wife of our subject was Eliza A. Thurman, daughter of Mark and Fannie (Marchant) Thurman. Her parents were pioneers of Knox County, coming there as early as 1829. There they resided until their demise. Mark Thurman, the father of Mrs. Thurman, was the first Justice of the Peace in Knox County.
His demise occured Oct. 26, 1845. The parental family consisted of ten children, of whom Mrs. T. was the third in order of birth. February 14, 1820, in Highland County, Ohio, she first saw the light.
Mr. and Mrs. Thurman, of this notice, have become the parents of one child, a daughter, named Clarissa, who died at the interesting age of two years; Dec 19, 1850, being the date of her death. Since her husbands death, Mrs. Thurman has come in possession of the extensive farm of 320 acres of land, 200 of which is in a most excellant state of cultivation. Mr. and Mrs. Thurman, having lost their only child, have raised five children, all reaching the age of man and womanhood. The names of the children they have reared will be found below: Zeruial McCullock, who was five years of age when he was taken to raise; Loren E. Thurman was the next child adopted, he being only three years of age when he was taken as one of their children; Catherine Potts was raised and became the wife of Luther Moats; Nettie Hall came to their home when only 13 months old and has grown up to womanhood and is now the leading support of Mrs. Thurman.
Source: Portrait and Biographical Album, Knox County, Illinois 1886, Chapman Brothers, Chicago Biographical Publishing Co.

Allen Thurman; Farmer: Salem Township. Born in 1823 in Highland County, Ohio. He was educated in the common schools. His parents, John and Elsa (Bales) Thurman, were born in Virginia. His paternal grandfather was Allen Thurman. Mr. Allen Thurman's first wife, Elizabeth Truitt, who was born in Maryland about 1823, was the daughter of Littleton Truitt; she died in 1878; her parents died in Ohio. Seven children were born to them: John Allen, born October 25, 1849; Mary Ann, born March 7, 1843, died in infancy; Permilia, born May 15, 1850; Rachel, born February 22, 1853; Isaac, born September 21, 1855; and William, born March 19, 1858. In 1884 Mr. Thurman was married to Barbara Branble in Peoria, Illinois; she was born in Maryland. Mr. Thurman came to Illinois in 1833, and settled on the township line between Elba and Salem Township. Soon after his first marriage he settled on a farm in the southern part of Elba Township. His two sons, Isaac and William, are in Montana; John Allen lives in Elba Township. Mr. Thurman has been School Director of his township. In religious belief , he is a Christian. Politically, he is a democrat.
Source: Historical Encyclopedia of Illinois and Knox County 1899 Munsell Publishing Co., Chicago

Alfred Thurman Alfred Thurman, deceased, came to Knox County about 1851, and for a time taught school in Salem Township, after which he worked out by the month on a farm. He subsequently formed a partnership with a Mr. Steel in the dry goods business in Farmington. This they carried on successfully for a short time, when our subject removed to Uniontown, Salem Township, where he purchased a dry goods store and remained there for four years, then returned to Farmington, carrying on this business for some months. His next removal was to Maquon Township, whither he removed his stock of dry goods, locating his store near the distillery. He remained there for some time, after which he went to Leavenworth, Kan., and one year later again returned to Maquon. During all this time he was engaged in the mercantile business. Upon his final settlement at Maquon he formed a partnership with David Housh, where he remained until his demise. Mr. Thurman was married to Barbara Housh, at Knoxville, Aug 3, 1854. She was the daughter of David and Elizabeth (Thornbrough) Housh. Mrs. Thurman was born in Haw Creek Township, Aug 20, 1836, and by this union became the mother of two daughters - Florence and Emma C. Florence M. is the wife of Benjamin S. Green, and they are at present residing in Peoria; Mrs. Green is the mother of three children, viz.: George A., Sophia B., and Benjamin J.; Emma C. died when three months old. Mrs. Thurman was again married, in Haw Creek Township, this time to William H.H. Green. Mr. Green was a native of Maryland, and settled in Maquon Township, where he and his brother purchased a distillery of David Housh, which they carried on for some years. He afterward followed farming and subsequently removed to the village of Maquon, where his death occured Sept. 5, 1882. Mr. Green's first wife was Amanda Housh, a sister of his second. The former was the mother of two children - Sophia E. and George B. Her demise took place in November, 1870. George died in infancy. By his second marriage he had born to him three children - Harry D., Clinton B., and Annie E.; the first died in infancy. Mrs. Green is an active member of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
Source: Portrait and Biographical Album Knox County, Illinois 1886 Chapman Brothers Biographical Publishing Co. Chicago.

Elisha Thurman, farmer, P.O., Maquon. Born July 1, 1812, in Highland Co., Ohio. Parents were Thomas and Feba (Goard) Thurman, natives of Virginia. His early life was passed on the farm; moved to Illinois in 1830, settling in Knox Co., and has been out of the county only three years time since. Dec. 25, 1834, was married to Anna Hall. They are the parents of nine children, whom seven are living. Was first a member of the Methodist Church, but now belongs to the Christian, which he joined in 1838 or '39. Has been School Director and Trustee. Republican. Owns 592 acres of land.
Source: History of Knox County, Illinois 1878 Chas. C. Chapman & Co. Blakely, Brown & Marsh, Printers Chicago

David Crawford Thoroman The first of his name to come to Kansas, the late David Crawford Thoroman was for many years engaged in school teaching and farming in Coffey and Osage counties, and is still remembered by the older residents as a man of upright character, possessed of a high sense of justice. His experiences during the Civil war had placed upon him the handicap of being weak physically, but his energetic spirit and industry helped him to overcome this in large part, and throughout his career he was a useful member of whatever community he made his home. David C. Thoroman was born in Adams County, Ohio, in 1824, of English descent, and when a young man went to Lewis County, in the northeastern part of Kentucky, where he was married to Katherine Murphy. Thus early he was a schoolteacher and agriculturist and was so engaged when the Civil war broke out. Mr. Thoroman enlisted in Company E, Twenty-second Regiment, Kentucky Volunteer Infantry, and had his baptism of fire in Cumberland Gap, where he took part in a severe engagement. Subsequently he was in the battles around Vicksburg, including Milliken's Bend, Big Black River and the numerous encounters leading up to the surrender of the besieged city, and later took part in the engagement at Arkansas Post. Just prior to the Red River expedition under General Banks, in which his regiment took an active part, Mr. Thoroman was forced to resign, owing to the ill effects of a sunstroke. By that time he had been advanced to the rank of lieutenant, through bravery and faithful service, and had a decidedly commendable war record. On his return to his home, Mr. Thoroman spent some months in recuperating and then again resumed farming in Kentucky. In 1871 he left that state and came to Kansas, first settling in Osage county and two years later coming to Coffey County. For almost twenty-eight years, Mr. Thoroman was a teacher in the public schools of these counties, practically all of this time in the winter months, while his summers were devoted to farming. The evil effects of his army life, in regards to his physical health, never left him, but he was able to make a place for himself among the men of comfortable circumstances in his community, while as a citizen he held the respect and confidence of all with whom he came into contact. Mr. Thoroman was a man of the highest integrity, and when he died, in 1909, his community lost a man who had ever been a friend of justice. His first wife (Katherine Murphy) died after bearing him three children, (Samuel, Sarah and John) and he was again married, wedding Rebecca Murphy, a sister of his first wife. She bore him six children, five of whom are now living, including Albert M.(orton) Thoroman. She (Rebecca) died at Waverly, Kansas, July 31, 1916.
Source: A Standard History of Kansas and Kansans, 1918.

Albert Morton Thoroman was born on a farm in Osage County, Kansas, July 9, 1873, a son of David Crawford and Rebecca (Murphy) Thoroman. His early boyhood and youth were passed on farms in Osage and Coffey Counties, and he was given excellent educational advantages in the public schools of Kansas and in the State Normal School, from which he was graduated in 1899, in addition to which he received instruction from his father. His education was completed in the University of Kansas, from which he was graduated in 1909. In the meantime, Mr. Thoroman had taught school, and had served one year as superintendent of the schools of Williamsburg, seven years as superintendent of the schools of Council Grove. He served four years as principal of the Chase County High School at Cottonwood Falls, from 1909 to 1913. In the latter year he was elected secretary of the School Book Commission of the State of Kansas, a position which he still retains and the duties of which he is discharging in an entirely efficient, conscientious and expeditious manner. In this capacity, as co-editor with Prof. H. W. Davis, he has published two volumes now used in the public schools of Kansas: "Classics for the Kansas Schools, Eighth Grade," and the same work for the seventh grade. He has also done editorial work on the Kansas Primer.
Mr. Thoroman is a member of the Congregational Church. He is a republican in politics, and a member of the Kansas Chapter of the Phi Beta Kappa. His fraternal connection is with the Masons, in which he has attained the Scottish Rite degree.
Source: A Standard History of Kansas and Kansans, 1918.

Mr. Joseph Thurman, the grandfather of Arthur M. Thurman, was born in 1776, in Ohio, from which state he enlisted as a soldier in the American army for service during the War of 1812. In 1816 he traveled westward, locating in Missouri, and in his later years became a pioneer farmer of Kansas, and died at Fort Scott, in August, 1862. He had fought under Gen. William Henry Harrison, but was a democrat in his political belief. Mr. (Joseph) Thurman married a Miss Price, who bore him four children, namely; 1) John, who crossed the plains to California during the gold rush of "the days of '49," and after a short experience as a miner died in that state; 2) Marion, who died in Missouri after a successful career spent in the milling business; 3) Joseph, who was engaged in farming until his death at Nevada, Missouri; and 4) Job who was also an agriculturist and died at Neosho, Missouri. After the death of his first wife, Mr. Thurman was married to Mrs. Mary (Roberts) Joslin, a native of Kentucky, who died near Joplin, Missouri, and they had three children, namely: 1) Isaac Riley, who followed farming as a vocation and died at Neosho, Missouri; 2) Zacharias, who was a miner and died in the far West; and 3) Richard Scott.
Source: A Standard History of Kansas and Kansans, written and compiled by William E. Connelley, Secretary of the Kansas State Historical Society, Topeka. Chicago: Lewis Publishing Company, copyright 1918; transcribed 1998.

Mr. Richard Scott Thurman (Father of Arthur M. Thurman) was born at Saint Charles, Saint Charles County, Missouri, January 21, 1847, and was a small child when taken to Newton County, in the same state, by his parents. There he received a public school education and was reared on the home farm, on which he worked until his activities were interrupted by the coming on of the Civil war. When he was but fifteen years old, in August, 1862, Mr. Thurman enlisted in the Union army for service in the war between the states, becoming a member of Company E, Fourteenth Kansas Cavalry. With this command he saw some hard fighting, including all the engagements incidental to Price's raid, and when he received his honorable discharge and was mustered out of the service, it was with an excellent record for gallantry and fidelity. On his return from the war, the young soldier went to Saint Clair County, Missouri, where for nearly thirty years he operated the ferry on the Osage River. Subsequently, he went to Nowata, Oklahoma, where he engaged for a time in teaming, and July 12, 1905, came to Kansas and located at Coffeyville, where he has been engaged in private teaming and in working for the city with his teams to the present time. He is the owner of his own residence, at No. 303 East Twelfth street, Coffeyville, as well as the lot adjoining. Mr. Thurman has been a man of industry, and while he has not become wealthy, has accumulated a competence for his declining years. He has always been known for his honesty and straightforward dealing, and among those who know him is held in the highest esteeem[sic]. Politically a democrat, he has never been a politician. His only social connection is with Sheridan Post No. 90, Grand Army of the Republic. Mr. Thurman was married in 1871, at Fort Scott, Kansas to Miss Eliza Cobb, daughter of David and Martha Cobb, both of whom are now deceased. Mr. Cobb was a veteran of the Civil war, having fought from 1861 to 1865 as a member of the Sixth Kansas Cavalry. The children born to Mr. and Mrs. Thurman were as follows: 1) Walter, who resides near Coffeyville, Kansas, and is engaged in farming; 2) Clara Belle, who died at the age of three years; 4) Arthur M.; 5) Oscar Frank, who was an engineer for a steamshoveling company, and in May, 1914, was so injured in a boiler explosion at San Diego, California, that he only lived forty-eight hours; and 5) H. R., who is a teamster and makes his home with his parents at Coffeyville.
Source: A Standard History of Kansas and Kansans, written and compiled by William E. Connelley, Secretary of the Kansas State Historical Society, Topeka. Chicago: Lewis Publishing Company, copyright 1918; transcribed 1998.

Mr. Arthur M. Thurman (The 4th child of Richard Scott Thurman) As the prosperous and rapidly-growing city of Caney is located almost on the state line between Oklahoma and Kansas, many men who make their homes in the city are the owners of property in the former state, particularly land that is used for agricultural purposes. A large number of these make daily trips between their country estates and their city, residences, either by way of train or automobile, and in this class is found Arthur M. Thurman, a prosperous farmer and rancher, who lives at Caney, but whose magnificent property, consisting of 1,280 acres of fertile and productive land, is located nine miles southeast of the city, in Osage County, Oklahoma. When Mr. Thurman came to Caney, then but a farming center, in 1901, he was possessed of no means other than those represented by his ambition and determination, and his first work was as a clerk in a drug store. From that time to the present he has steadily advanced, until now he is justly accounted one of the substantial men of his community.
Arthur M. Thurman was born at Osceola, the county seat of Saint Clair County, Missouri, January 28, 1879, and is a son of Richard Scott and Eliza (Cobb) Thurman. *The family originated in Ireland, from whence the first American progenitor emigrated during colonial days, members of the family locating in the Western Reserve of Ohio as pioneers. (*Note: This may be in error?) Arthur M. Thurman was educated in the public schools of Osceola, Missouri, where he attended the high school, but at the age of seventeen years left school to go to Nowata, Oklahoma, where he worked on farms for about two years. In 1898 he went to Coffeyville, Kansas, and for three years had experience as a clerk in a store, and in 1901 came to Caney. This community was then only a farming center, but Mr. Thurman had the foresight to see that some day it was destined to be a live commercial and manufacturing community, and he accordingly laid his plans to remain here. His first employment was as a clerk in the drug store conducted by Doctor Booker, but two years thereafter turned his attention to farming and ranching in Osage County, Oklahoma, a line in which he has continued to the present with almost phenomenal success. On his broad acres Mr. Thurman raises blooded stock in horses and cattle, and fancy chickens and turkeys, in addition to which he carries on diversified farming. He maintains his residence on Third Avenue, Caney, and makes daily trips to and from his ranch in his automobile. With his years of experience, his excellent business foresight, and his managerial ability, it is needless to say that Mr. Thurman accomplishes the greatest possible results from the operation of his land. He is a republican in politics, and while he has not cared for public honors, has discharged his duties of citizenship by acting as a member of the school board in the vicinity of his ranch in Osage County for two years. Fraternally, he is connected with Lodge No. 160, Ancient Order of United Workmen, Caney, and Lodge No. 1215, Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, and also holds membership in the Country Club, situated on Big Caney Creek. He is a man of strong characteristics, public spirited, popular, honorable in all his dealings, and through his upbuilding of his handsome and valuable property is an agricultural factor of widespread influence.
Mr. Thurman was married March 29, 1903, at Caney, Kansas, to Miss Lola Labadie, daughter of Frank and Samantha (Miller) Labadie, and a one-eighth Osage Indian on her father's side. To Mr. and Mrs. Thurman there has come one child, Geneva E., who was born at Caney, March 27, 1906, and is now attending the public schools.
Source: A Standard History of Kansas and Kansans, written and compiled by William E. Connelley, Secretary of the Kansas State Historical Society, Topeka. Chicago: Lewis Publishing Company, copyright 1918; transcribed 1998.

Mrs. Arlene (Lawrenz) Thurman Arlene, daughter of Henry and Ella Lawrenz, was born January 13, 1927 at the farm at rural Sawyer, KS. I attended Crooked Creek School for the first six years and then Isabel schools for 7th thru 12th, graduation from high school in 1944. I enjoyed being a member of Elm Mills 4-H club and the opportunities it presented - fairs, roundup, summer camp and good fun. The family were members of St. John's Lutheran Church in Nashville. I was confirmed in 1940. I worked at Union National Bank and Boeing in Wichita. In December 1948 I married Fern Thurman and moved to Morrison, Oklahoma where Fern (Nickname Drag) was agent for the Frisco Railroad. In 1949 we moved to Blackwell, OK where our three children were born. In 1955 we moved to Southard, OK. In 1962 we moved to Winfield, KS and in 1965 we moved to Arkansas City where we now live. Fern retired from the railroad in 1982. I have been a secretary for Viola Industries for 17 years. We have three children, Karen Goatley, Arkansas City, Kathie Thurman, Overland Park, KS and Bob Thurman, Wichita, KS. The girls are elementary teachers and Bob is president of Credit Union of America. Three grandchildren are Tamara and Megan Goatley and Derek Thurman.
Source: Isabel, Kansas - The First 100 Years, 1887 - 1987, pg. 165 Submitted by: Arlene Thurman

Mr. James Richard Hisle, senior member of the firm of J. R. Hisle & Son, general merchants at Scammon, was born in Kentucky in 1850 and is of German descent. When he was three years old, his parents moved to Missouri, and there he grew to man's estate on his father's farm. Upon attaining his majority, Mr. Hisle went to Ray County, and worked in the coal mines there for two years. Then he went to Platte County, Missouri, and worked on a farm until his removal to Cherokee County, Kansas, in 1876. Here he worked on a farm near Crestline, and followed mining at the same time. Three years later found him settled in Scammon, where he followed mining for two years. After many years of hard labor, he slowly worked up to the position of mining boss for Keith & Henry, later the Keith & Perry Coal Company. This position he held for 11 years. In 1893 the Keith & Perry Coal Company became the Central Coal & Coke Company, the largest coal operators in this section. In 1891 the subject of this sketch went into the general merchandise business, handling everything,--chiefly groceries. This business he has continued with great success. Mr. Hisle has taken his son into partnership recently, and the firm is now known as J. R. Hisle & Son. Mr. Hisle married Martha Ann Wooten, December 16, 1869. She was born in Illinois and was raised in Missouri. They had 11 children, six of whom are now living, as follows: Ernest, who married Hannah Dunbar, and has two children,--James R. and an infant; Oscar; Clara; Ada; George; and Harry. In politics Mr. Hisle is an independent voter. Mr. Hisle's father was Richard Hisle. He was born in Kentucky, and died in Scammon, Kansas, at the age of 68 years. His wife was Amanda Jane Todd. She was also born in Kentucky, and is still living. Their nine children all grew to maturity. They are as follows: Sarah, Frances, James R., Belle, George, Levi, Willie, Laura and Ida. The father was a shoemaker by trade, and followed that occupation all his life. He was in the Union Army during the Civil War, as a private in a Missouri regiment. His widow gets a pension at the present time. The grandfather, Joseph Hisle, was a shoemaker all his life, and died in Missouri at the age of 84 years. He married Julia Thurman, (Dau of Richard) who had a brother (Henderson and a sister Sally who married Joseph's brother Sampson.) who was an early settler in Cherokee County, Kansas. As one of the early settlers of Cherokee County, Mr. Hisle is much revered. By a consistent and upright life he has secured the respect and esteem of all. He has ever proven himself ready to give his support to any measure that is for the benefit of the community. In business he is courteous and obliging, and the strict honesty with which he conducts his dealings has brought him a large and well established trade. His family are held in the highest regard in Scammon, and throughout this vicinity.
Source: History of Cherokee County Kansas and its representative citizens, ed. & comp. by Nathaniel Thompson Allison, 1904, transcribed by Carolyn Ward, instructor from USD 508, Baxter Springs Middle School, Baxter Springs, Kansas, 5/5/97.

Mr. David L. Perkins, one of the foremost citizens of Craighead County, and a resident of Jonesboro Township, was born in Fayette County, Tenn., October 17, 1845, and is the son of William H. Perkins, a native of Virginia, who emigrated from the "Old Dominion" to Tennessee in 1826, and Sarah (Wrightsell) Perkins, a native of Tennessee. They had six children, four of whom are living-three sons and one daughter-and three are residents of this county: Mary (wife of P. T. Hudson), D. L. and John W. Mr. Perkins made a visit to this State in 1871, but returned to the old homestead in Fayette County, Tenn., where he and his wife still reside, aged seventy-nine and sixty-four years, respectively. David L. spent his boyhood on the farm, and received a fair education in the common schools of the county. He came with his father to this State in 1871, and selected it as the place of his permanent residence. The father bought 200 acres of land, and for nine years David L. lived on it, but then bought his homestead of 160 acres. He has a well-cultivated farm, with about fifty-five acres improved. December 26, 1872, he wedded Laura Thurman, a native of Fayette County, Tenn., (Dau of William Decatur Thurman and Permelia Catherine Roberts) who died in May, 1887, leaving five children: Clarence C., Howard L., William D., Linnie E. and Ernest D. He was again married, October 13, 1887, this time choosing Mrs. Nannie E. (Fuller) Falls, a resident of this county. The result of this union has been one boy, Edward Cecil. Mr. Perkins is prominent in religious and educational interests, and in politics is a stanch Democrat. He is a member of the Christian Church, and is an elder of the Hope Church of that denomination. Mrs. Perkins is a benevolent Christian lady, and also a member of the Christian Church at Hope.
Source:The Goodspeed Publishing Co., 1889. Craighead Co., AR Biographies - Part 2.

Mr. Roy Winfield "Silas" Thurman, known to his friends as Silas, was born the 7th of February 1885 in Tulsa, Indian Territory (now Oklahoma), in a log house, up on the hill on the south side of 71st street, about a quarter mile east of Lewis. His father was William Henry "Billy" Thurman and his mother was China Perryman. He had a sister, Alice (Mary Alice) who was about five years older than he. He also had a half brother Reuben Partridge and three half sisters, Delila, Kizzie and Louisa Partridge. Reuben Partridge, who worked at the J.M. Hall Store, looked after Silas and Alice after their mother died, although they did see their father from time to time. Aunt Rachel Perryman, wife of George, took Silas because he had been sick and was about to die, and nursed him along with her daughter Mamie. Later, Silas and Alice both stayed in the Ben Haggey home south of Broken Arrow. Next, they stayed at a home where the Shannon Furniture Store used to be, at 2nd and Boulder in downtown Tulsa. They next went to the home of widow, Lydia Childers, at 1st and Boulder. While staying with the Widow Childers, Silas and Alice decided to run away. When Reuben found them they were going down first street carrying their hump-backed trunk between them. Alice then went to stay with her uncle, George Perryman and later Lila Lindsey, a cousin of her mother, while Silas went to live with his uncle, Legus Perryman who lived at 8th and Main in Tulsa. Silas and Alice never again lived in the same home together. (Alice later married Ernest Drew, had 3 boys and died of tuberculous in 1907). Legus placed Silas on the Creek Indian Roll (number 2947), which entitled him to receive an allotment of 160 acres of land. He later sold this land, which was located at 61st and Lewis, (where Southern Hills Country Club is now located) for $4,200. Alice's 160 acre allotment was located at 41st and Peoria. At the age of about 6 or 7 he started to school, which was located at 4th and Boston, and attended about eight years. Creek was the only language he spoke before going to school. His teachers were: Jennie Springfield Hall, wife of J.M. Hall; Alice Springfield; and one other Springfield sister. He and other boys would play hooky from school. They would play one of their favorite games, running races over the Frisco Railroad Bridge, which spanned the Arkansas River. The steel girders were about three feet wide. One boy would get on one side and one on the other, climb up one span and run across the top and slide down the other side, then climb up the next span and run across and slide down again, and keep doing the same until they crossed the river. There was a lot of water in the river in those days. Legus Perryman was chief of the Creek Nation when Silas came to stay with him. Silas remembered one time that Legus heard a noise in the night and thought someone had come to kill him. He ran down the street to his secretary's (Sam Davis) house with only his red long-johns on with the tail-flap flapping in the breeze. Homer Perryman, Silas' nephew, also came to live with Legus in 1895 when he was orphaned at the age of two. Homer's father, Andrew Perryman (Legus' son), had been killed in the Hall store when he shot into a keg of dynamite (while drunk) which exploded. Homer's mother, Kizzie (half-sister to Silas), died of grief. Silas also remembered (but did not participate in) the race riot in Tulsa when a negro raped a white woman and they burned out "nigger" town. When he was young he played on Tulsa's Oilers baseball team. On April 14, 1905 a daughter, Eudora Euga was born to Silas and Mamie Sloan. Her mother later married Lee Keller and Eudora used his last name. She attended Tulsa University and was a art teacher in the Tulsa schools. She married Kenneth Edward Laverne Collins and had two children; Grace Laverne, born 6 March 1929 and Kenneth Lee born 30 June 1931 in Tulsa. Eudora died February 23, 1951 in Tulsa of cancer. She never knew who her father was. About 1906, Silas married Maude Evelyn Reeder, the daughter of James Lewis and Bell Reeder. He always referred to his father-in-law as Brother Reeder. The Reeders came to Catalie, Oklahoma from Joplin, and then to Tulsa, and lived on Zunis near Swan Lake. Maude's mother had died and her step-mother was Sarah Munson. Silas and Maude had three children all born in Tulsa: Paul Legus, born 29th of March 1908, Elmer, born March 1910 and a daughter born August 1911. Elmer died young and the daughter probably at birth or shortly after. After Maude died (5 August 1911), Paul stayed with his Reeder grandparents. Silas was a convert to the Pentecostal religion when it first started in Tulsa on Brady Street about 1906. He became a charter member of the Full Gospel Tabernacle (later Central Assembly), located at Fifth and Peoria in Tulsa. They used to have ceiling fans in the church and he would always have to be to church at least a hour early to get a seat under one of the fans. After his conversion he gave up drinking, smoking and swearing. He loved to read his Bible, and in the early days was a Sunday School teacher. He worked on farms for Dave and Bob Shipman and Gus Thompson, near Burbank, Oklahoma some of the time as chuck wagon cook. In the Oil fields near Boynton, Oklahoma he pumped oil and dressed tools. Later, he worked at Red Ball Transfer Company in Tulsa, and as cement finisher on the curbs in Tulsa and on Walter Goodman's farm, near Alsuma, Oklahoma. Then about 1919 he worked for J. A. Cline in Tulsa, where he met Fern. In 1921 he worked on the farm of Lawrence Cline in Kansas and later for Walter Stunkard in Tulsa. Silas and Fern eloped on the 20th of January 1923, and were married in Sapulpa, Oklahoma. He was 37 and she was 18. The Clines did not think too much of him as a son-in-law at first, they said "Fern would just have a bunch of little Indians." They lived first on Archer Street near the Street Car tracks in housekeeping rooms. Second they lived on Maybelle Street in housekeeping rooms and were neighbors to the Tomlins. The third place they lived was in an upstairs apartment at 6th and Peoria. One day they came home from work and the landlord had moved them to a downstairs apartment so after that they bought furniture (kitchen cabinet, stove, ice box, library table, 2 chairs, living room suit, victrola and bed room set) and moved to 1005 W. Brady. This was a duplex and Fern's cousin Jay Basse lived on the other side. They next bought an acre and a quarter and in the summer of 1928 built their home at 6204 S. Trenton, the Biles Nursery did the landscaping. In 1923 he got a job at Joe Hodges Warehouse as a truck driver and later as warehouse foreman, working until September 1950 (27 years, 7 months) when he had a light stroke and was no longer able to work there. While working at Joe Hodges he was nicknamed "Blackie" by everyone he worked with. Joe Hodges did pool-car distribution to wholesale grocers. Dry beans would spill on the floor of the train cars and Silas would pick them up and bring them home. This was during the depression and they ate some of them and gave some to the school to be cooked for the children who didn't have any lunch. There were several negro men working for him in the warehouse and was a friend to all of them. When he butchered hogs some of them would come out and help him so they could have the intestines "intrals". He would cure his own meat in a smoke house in the back of the garage. He built a barbecue pit in the back yard and cooked a lot of meat on it even though it always made him sick to do it. Silas and Fern had two children: Beverly Joan, born the 10th of January 1929 at home; and Donald Wesley, born the 30th of September 1938 at the Flower Hospital in Tulsa. He always liked to have a dog, cow, calf, chickens and garden, and sometimes had rabbits, turkeys and a pig or two. They bought a 100 acre farm in Chelsea, Oklahoma and moved there in February 1951, raising cattle, which is what he had always wanted to do. In the spring of 1959 they sold their farm and moved back to Tulsa when his health would no longer permit him to stay on the farm he loved. They built a house just south of their old house at 6208 South Trenton and moved in the latter part of 1959. He owned the following cars: new 1928/9 green Chevrolet coupe; used 1935 maroon Chevrolet; used 1936 black Chevrolet; new 1939 black Chevrolet; used 1947 blue Plymouth; new 1953 green Plymouth; new 1955 red and white Plymouth and new tan 1962 Plymouth. He never traveled more than 175 miles from home in his whole life. He loved to eat all kinds of good home cooking. He was an expert at cooking steak, which he loved, and always had to have a piece of bread and a slice of onion on his plate. He was especially fond of glazed bakery donuts and oyster soup which he made quite often. He suffered from high blood pressure and gout and had a prostrate operation. The last words he spoke were in the same Creek language he spoke in the beginning of his life. He died the 1st of May 1967 at the Indian Hospital in Claremore, Oklahoma at the age of 82. His funeral was held the 3rd of May 1967 at the Central Assembly of God Church (old Full Gospel Tabernacle), Fifth and Peoria, Tulsa, Oklahoma and was buried at the Floral Haven Cemetery in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma.
Source: Joan Thurman Case

Edward Moroni Thurman: (Note... not a bio, per se, but worth listing). 1868 June 10th, Cousin William was called to go as a teamster for the poor (this was to go meet the saints who were crossing the plains and whose way was paid by the church, which was later repaid by the individual. His cousin, Edward (Moroni) Thurman was also a teamster at this time. Edward records: "The 10th June 1868, John Wolfe and I left Hyde Park to meet the incoming immigrants of Saints. The 15th, day of June at the mouth of Weber Canyon we organized. Chester Loveland of Brigham city was chosen captain; Orval Childs was assistant Captain. We moved slowly up Weber Canyon. a few days later we were camped on green River. the river very high. we ferried our wagons across and our captain ordered the horses to be unhitched to swim across the river. Yes, I was a boy of 19 years old and will admit I cried for my fondest hope - my first horse had gone down. but the same day six of the boys were drowned. Still we went on. In about two weeks we were in Laramie. Say, that was a rough town. all tents, not a house, and fancy men and women. we stayed there six weeks waiting for our loads. The good old Captain would line us up and take us to camp. Before sundown the long awaited train arrived and we were there to meet them. After we had loaded, a sweet faced elderly sister said to me, "Brother, are the roads as rough as this all the way to Zion?" that same night we moved back to our old camp grounds. The next day was clean up day. the next morning we were on our way. when we hit the road we had to hold on for our lives, the mules and horses knew they were on their way home. " "We were all happy now; we had a lot of pretty girls along, but what about our girls at home? So you see a boy is always mixed up. We followed up the South Platt to get feed for our teams which took us off the main road about six miles. we were all dozing, the horses and mules were feeding just at noon when twoIndians yelled the war-whoop and started to shoot. Instantly they stampeded the horses and mules. I can never forget the screams of the women and children. they got away with 43 head of our horses. As soon as we could about 20 of us were after them. Say, that was a ride. At Whiskey Bay we overtook them. Five of the best horses shot ahead and the Indians closed in on them. six of us followed them and just as the sun went down our rifles belched and two Redskins went to their happy hunting ground. Ten o'clock we were back at the camp with 51 hear of horses and mules." "The next morning just at daybreak we were busy packing the women and children behind quilts and blankets. Every man had his gun ready. that night we camped with Captain Rollings company together with 65 or 70 wagons. Two companies trailed together until we crossed the Green River." "It seemed good to a boy to be nearing home. No more red skins to encounter, no more stampedes. Gold old Bishop Hunter had the tithing gates open for us." "Soon gold was discovered in Montana. Times changed. Men by the thousands flocked to the new gold campaign. Men brought teams to buy grain and feed. wheat sold for $100 a bushel. I soon got rid of my home-made suit". Edward was a highly successful polygamist. He married Lovena Samantha Griffeth and had 12 children, then he married a plural wife Femina Besella Steward and they had 6 children and moved from Hyde Park, Utah to Star Valley, Wyoming in 1888 where they settled in Grover. He ran a farm, established a store, carried the mail, became a firefighter and worked in a saw mill.
Source of text: Emma Leah Swallow Rudd 1994

Mr. Clayborne Martin Thurman, a pioneer of Pike county, is a native of Kentucky, and was born near Stanford August 4, 1807. When he was twelve years of age, his father being dead, he came to Missouri with his mother and grandparents, who settled in Lincoln county, at Wood's Fort, now Troy, where, in 1820 his mother married James Burnes, with whom he came to Pike county in1821, and lived with him in Buffalo township until 1826, when he with four of his neighbors went to Gelena, Illinois, on foot, to find employment in the lead mines. He worked in the lead mines on Fever River four months, when he enlisted in the U.S. army under General Dodge as a soldier in the Winnebago Indian War, and served five months, when peace was declared. He then returnedto Galena where he continued to mine until 1828, when he returned to Pike county. He soon after entered a quarter of a section of land six miles south of Louisiana. He afterwards entered several parcels of land amounting in all to 3,000 acres. He then engaged extensively in farming, at one time having 300 acres of wheat. He also became quite a slaveholder, owning twenty-one at the breaking out of the late war, all of which were emancipated. In 1866 he abandoned farming and purchased the steam ferry-boat at Louisiana city, which he owned and run up to 1876, when he sold it and then built a steam freight boat which he run one season, when it was sunk by the ice the following winter, after which he resided in Louisiana and was engaged in settling up his business and making an effort to save his property, he having become deeply involved by domestic trouble and losing heavily on account of the war. In 1880 he left Louisiana city to reside with his son Joseph near that place, where he still lives. March 14, 1833 he married Rebecca Mackey, daughter of Capt. John Mackey of Calumet township, Pike county, who died March 1, 1852, by whom he has two children living: Joseph M. and George W. In 1862 he married Mrs. Susan Ann Griffith, they living together two years when they separated.
Source:The History of Pike County, Missouri, Published by Mills & Company, Des Moines, Iowa, 1883. Location of Source: Mid-Continent Public Library, Genealogy Department (Spring Street & Hwy 24), Independence, MO. From Page 748 of Source. Submitted by Mr. Alan Thurmon lyman@sky.net (With THANKS!)

Mr. Joseph M. and Mr. George W. Thurman, sons of C(layborne) M(artin) Thurman, were born in Buffalo township, Pike county, October 8, 1847, and July 8, 1850 respectively. They lived with their father until manhood. They are both farmers of Buffalo township. December 12, 1878, Joseph M. married Mrs. Ellen Thurman, and lives on the homestead. In June 1880, George W. married Miss Kate Johnson of Illinois. They have one child, Susie Rebecca.
Source:The History of Pike County, Missouri, Published by Mills & Company, Des Moines, Iowa, 1883. Location of Source: Mid-Continent Public Library, Genealogy Department (Spring Street & Hwy 24), Independence, MO. From Page 749 of Source. Submitted by Mr. Alan Thurmon lyman@sky.net (With THANKS!)

Mr. John Thurmon's Pension Application for Rev War Service
22nd Congr. 2 Sept. Petition of John Thurmon, prayIng for a pension in consideration of Revolutionary Services Va ---1833 Jan’y 17 refered to the Comm. On Pensions- Jan’y 19th Discharged & leave to withdraw ----Mr. Benton (Refers to Senator Thomas Hart Benton of Missouri).

To the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States in Congress Assembled The Memorial of the undersigned respectfully represents that he was born in Virginia, Albemarle County, on James River in the year of our Lord 1756 and in the year 1775 he went as a volunteer down to Hampton to prevent the British and Tories from landing on the Borders of Virginia, but so much time having elapsed since that period and my memory having failed so much that I do not recollect the precise length of that tour of duty. Agreeable to the best of my recollection, I started in September (1775) and was discharged some time in the winter following, my officers names were Capt. Wm. Henry and Lieut. Dan C. Felmon. I received pay for this tour. In March following (1776), I returned to the Seat of Government (Williamsburg, VA) as an enlisted Soldier for the term of one year (March 1776 to March 1777), my pay was eight dollars per month, Continental money, my officers names were Capt. Leonard Thompson, Lieut John Thompson, and incorporation in the Seventh Regiment to the best of my recollection. I think the Regiment was Commanded by Colonel Slaughter in the Course of that Campaign I was in one action at Givins Island and when I was Discharged I returned home and Continued inactive about two years (March 1777-March 1779), when I again entered the Service of my Country in North Carolina in a horse Company (Spring1779) in which Service I was in one engagement at a place called Attucka Seige, if my memory Serves me right, where I lost my horse and when Discharged had to travel on foot home, and risk my life through a Tory County for this tour I got no pay either for myself, or horse.
The name of my Capt. was David McNab. Shortly after my discharge from the last mentioned tour, I again entered the Service as a Volunteer in North Carolina which tour lasted upwards of five months when I was again discharged without receiving any pay for my Services, during all of which time the Service was extremely hazardous rendered by the open assaults of the British and the Secret Machinations of the Tories which caused me many privations and sufferings both of body and mind, in all my services for my Country from the year 1775 until peace was made I drew no Clothing, except one blanket and one hunting shirt when the war was over. I married and my wife is still living and is 66 years of age, I am poor and infirm, suffering an affliction, which nothing but a dissolution of my life can heal which makes my few days here full of pain and trouble. My affliction is a rupture in my Bowels, which with the many days that I have seen renders me unable to labour for my support. I have no doubt but the many hardships, sickness and fateague that I suffered during the war was the cause of my affliction. I am now old and cannot expect to live long in this world of troubles, and was it not for the hope of a happy Immortality beyond the grave, which hope is firmly fixed in the Saviour of a lost and ruined world of fallen men, my afflictions and sufferings would render my the most miserable being. I am lead to make this known to my government, hoping at least that they will consider my case and if they think me not worthy of a pension for life, they will consider the loss of my horse and my service in the Campaigns of North Carolina for which I have not received any pay, A just claim on the government not as a matter of charity, but as a matter of Justice and right. I have been encouraged to submit those statements to my Government from the presidents last message to congress, I feel a conscientiousness about making oath to dates of precise times it has been so long and my memory has become so impaired not expecting ever to land the Claim the Bounty of my Country. I have forgotten a great Deal relative to my service. I am in hopes that my Government will be willing to grant the claims of a war worn soldier whose services has aided in securing, the liberty and independence which was Declared on the memorable fourth of July in the year 1776. When I look around me and see so many free men enjoying the sweets of liberty purchased by the blood and toils of their fathers in the revolution, I shall not regret the years, months, and days of service I have rendered in that struggle, the liberty obtained thereby. I would not exchange for all the gold of assher with slavery and tyrants to obey. If certificates of my character and inability to labour be necessary they can be obtained. My residence is in Missouri, Pike County with this short exhibition of the matter I shall leave the subject to the wisdom, justice and dispassionate consideration of Congress. Hoping that they will not be inattentive to the calls of a War Worn Soldier and for their prosperity their memorialist will ever pray.
SIGNED: John Thurmon
I have known the above petitioner for a number of years, and from his general character and the knowledge I have of him myself, I have no hesitations in believing that the statements made by him in the foregoing memorial are substantially true and that from his situation and inability to support himself he is well disserving the claims he has on his country.
SIGNED: Wm. McLoed; James Stark; John Masey; Robert Estes; James Hobbs; John MaPajou; Wm. Simpson; Dayton Grip; Claborn M. Thurmon; John Hobbs; Wm. Denny; James F. Denny; Andrew Forga; George Bunn; Wm. Finley; James Crider; George Hedrick; Thos. Davis; John Nowin; Wm. Griffy; David Biggs; Sgrhsanie Jankins (sic?); Granvil Cothrin; M.I. Noyes (sic?); G.G. Eastin, ??????? (or not a name); Clas. Johnsain; Cal Jones.
Submitted by Alan Thurmon.

George Washington Thurman - In any rich and progressive agricultural country, like that contiguous to the town of Republic, Greene county, Missouri, the flour milling business is usually found to be one of the most important industries. Here a vast acreage is put to wheat annually and the total number of bushels produced after the results of the threshing season are known is enormous, so a great and modern mill in the center of this nature-favored locality has sprung up, known as the Republic Custom and Merchant Mill Company, of which George. W. Thurman is manager. To conduct such a business successfully requires ability of a high order and characteristics that have been known to make for success whenever and to whatever they are properly and persistently applied.
Mr. Thurman was born in this county, February, 22, 1870, and is the son of Caleb and Mary S. (Jenkins) Thurman. The father was born in Sevier county, Tennessee, in 1834, where he spent his boyhood and during the Civil war he removed to Arkansas, and after the close of the conflict came to Greene county, Missouri, and soon thereafter purchased a farm and devoted the rest of his life to general farming and stock raising here, making grain raising a specialty. He was a man of rare business ability and industry, and although he came here with little of this world's goods, only fifty cents in money and a pair of mules, he worked hard, managed well and prospered with advancing years, became owner of one of the finest farms in the western part of the county, which contained three hundred acres, and at the time of his death was worth twenty-five thousand dollars. He was a well-known man and influential citizen. His first wife was also a native of Tennessee and there spent her girlhood and they were educated in the common schools of their native state and were married upon leaving there for Arkansas. She proved to be a faithful helpmate and is still living on the home place near Republic, at the age of eighty years. The death of Mr. Thurman occurred in January, 1909, at the age of seventy-five years. To these parents ten children were born, seven sons and three daughters, six of whom survive, namely: William H., I. J., Samuel G., Robert E., and Martha C., twins; James G., our subject; John died in infancy; Cyphronia A., and Mary Jane.
George W. 'Thurman was reared on the homestead in Greene county and there he did his full share of the work during crop seasons when he became of proper age, and he received a good practical education in the local schools. In August, 1898, he was married to Hattie A. Orr, a native of Greene county, where she was reared and educated. She is a daughter of Elias R. and Martha Jane (Norman) Orr. Mr. Orr was of German descent, and he came to Greene county, Missouri early in the nineteenth century, from Ohio, and here became well established on a farm and spent the rest of his life, dying in Republic in October, 1907. His wife died in 1889. They were the parents of seven children, one son and six daughters, namely: Mary Elizabeth, Gracy Alta, Libby Emma, Hettie A., wife of our subject; Lula Mehelia, Horner Noah, and Edith Audry.
Five children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Thurman, named as follows: Gaynell H., born in October, 1899; Jewell Ivan, born March 7,1891; Noel, born March 7, 1903; Geneva died in infancy; Ruth, born in March, 19l4.
Mr. Thurman remained on the home farm until he was twenty-three years of age, then began working as a stationary engineer, which he followed for a number of years. In March, 1904, he and five others formed a stock company and built the Republic Custom and Merchant Mill and have operated the same ever since. During the ten years of its existence it has been a marked success and its volume of business has gradually increased with the years. Mr. Thurman is active manager of the mill, and its pronounced success has been largely due to his able management. He is a close student of everything that pertains to the flour-milling business and has mastered every phase of the same, keeping fully abreast of the times in modern methods. This is one of the largest and best equipped mills in southwest Missouri. The building is a three-story substantial, well arranged and well located structure, and the equipment is up-to-date in every respect. In February, 1911, an electric light plant was added to .the equipment. The capacity of the mill is fifty barrels per day of flour and same of cornmeal, and the products of the same find a very ready market over the Southwest, owing to their superior quality. The following are the principal brands of flour produced here: "White Lily," "Satisfaction," and "Premium."
Politically, Mr. Thurman is a Republican and he has long been active and influential in local public affairs. He is now incumbent of the office of police judge of Republic and is discharging his duties in this connection in a highly commendable manner. He has also served as alderman, and has done much for the material and moral upbuilding of Republic. Fraternally, he is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, the Modern Woodmen of America, and the Free and Accepted Masons. He and his family are members of the Methodist Episcopal church. Mr. and Mrs. Thurman belong to the Knights and Ladies of Security, and the Eastern Star.
Source: http://thelibrary.springfield.missouri.org/lochist/history/paspres/thurmang.html - Past and Present of Greene County, Missouri

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