Phillips County Historical Quarterly

PHILLIPS COUNTY
HISTORICAL QUARTERLY

Published by
The Phillips County Historical Society

The Phillips County Historical Society supplies the Quarterly to its members. Membership is open to anyone interested in Phillips County history Annual membership dues are individual active members, $3.00, $3.50 if Quarterlies are mailed; man and wife, $5.00, $6.00 if Quarterlies are mailed (to both man and wife). Institutional, contributing and sustaining memberships are $5.00. Single copies of the Quarterly are $1.00

Neither the Editors nor the Phillips County Historical Society assume any responsibility for statements made by contributors. Correspondence concerning such matters should be addressed to the authors, and concerning other matters should be addressed to Mrs. L. R. Parmelee, Secretary, 172 Helendale, Helena, Arkansas.

Dues are payable to Miss Bessie McRee, Membership Chairman, P.O Box 629, Helena, Arkansas 72342. Make checks payable to Phillips County Historical Society, or payment may be made at County Treasurer s Office, Courthouse, Helena.

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Meetings are held on the fourth Sunday in the month, at 3:30 P. M. at the Phillips County Museum, Helena. No meetings are held in December, June, July, and August. The Quarterly is published in September, December, March, and June

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PHILLIPS COUNTY
HISTORICAL QUARTERLY

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

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STREET NUMBERS

From Helena City Directory, 1909

POPLAR STREET 6th street west of Cherry from York north to limits

BISCOE STREET 8th street west of Mississippi River from Mo south to limits

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HISTORY OF HELENA HOSPITAL

by

Carlos J. R. Smith

The Helena Hospital Association had its birth one Thursday morning, November 7, 1909, when a group of interested citizens petitioned the Phillips County Circuit Court for the purpose of forming a benevolent society. This group was composed of Mrs. E. D. Pillow, president; Mrs. J C Rembert, Mrs. Joseph Solomon, Mrs. C. C. Agee, Mrs. A. P. Coolidge, Mrs. B L Lyford, Mrs. Louis Solomon and others. Earlier interest in a Helena Hospital Association began with the work of the King’s Daughters Organization.

During the period until 1940, the duly elected Board of Trustees operated the Helena Hospital on 1201 Poplar Street. The nurses’ home was located next door at 1203 Poplar The hospital on Poplar Street was of brick veneer construction with no elevator It was necessary to carry the patients from one floor to the other, and many times the strong, young Dr. J. W. Butts was called upon to do this/ The hospital accommodated both white and colored patients and according to the 1929 Helena City Directory boasted 75. beds Private accommodations were $3 00 per day The hospital operated a training school for nurses for many years until the early 1930's The first superintendant of the hospital was Miss Louise Huntzicker who was the sister of Mrs. Frank Owens of Helena. Others who followed her were Mrs. Clifton Jackson, Miss Kate Lou Lord and Mrs. O. N. Brooks.

The first anesthetist, Mrs. J. B. Butts, joined the staff in 1923, having graduated from Lakeside Hospital in Cleveland, Ohio --- this was the most outstanding school of anesthesia at the time Mrs. Leona Lyons, “‘Little Bit,’’ was the first laboratory technician. She later became President of the Medical Technologist Association and Vice President of the College of American Medical Technologists Miss Susie Almer was one of the first graduate nurses in Phillips County. Dr. H. H. Rightor was the first eye, nose and throat specialist. Mr. John Ike Moore, Sr., represented the hospital in legal matters during those early years. Mr. O. C. Brewer was elected to the board in 1919 serving until 1934. Legal matters were referred to him during this time.

The Helena Hospital has all financial statements since 1924, except for a five-year period from 1935 to 1940 According to these records, the officers for the Association in 1924 were Mrs. W. M. Richardson, President; Mrs. W. H. Howe, Secretary; and Mr. Gilbert Yaeger, Treasurer. In 1925 Mrs. W. H. Howe assumed presidency of the association with Mrs. W M. Richardson, Secretary, and Mr. C. C. Agee, Treasurer These officers continued to serve through 1935 and probably several years longer. In 1940 Mrs. Milton Caven was Secretary and Mr. Fred W. Schatz became Vice President serving

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with Mrs. Howe and Mr. Agee Mrs. Howe continued as President of the Helena Hospital Association until November 30, 1952

Mrs. Howe served as President for twenty-seven years. During those years the hospital never closed due to lack of funds or shortages of personnel The hospital was always in debt and several times was operated personally by board members Mr. Otis Howe, Sr. said that he could remember his mother and father working many nights on the books and affairs of the hospital to keep it on a business-like basis.

In 1939 construction was begun on a new hospital with the assistance of W. P. A. funds and contributions from local interests in the amount of approximately $90,000. The new building was erected on property donated by Mrs. Floy Wooten Brooks in memory of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. S. A. Wooten, Mrs. Belle H. McKenzie also gave a gift of $25,000 to the new project These two gifts were largely responsible for the decision to construct a new hospital The board members worked continuously in their efforts to raise money to build and support the hospital The Board was composed of the following people in 1940 Mrs. W. H. Hose, President Mrs. Milton Caven, Secretary, Mr. Fred W. Schatz, Vice President Mr. C. C. Agee, Treasurer, Mr. J. G. Burks, Mr. John T. Franklin, Mr. D. T. Hargraves, Sr., Mr. George L. Hornor, Mr. John I. McRee, Jr., Mr. F. R. McKnight, Mrs. Josie Krow Mundt, Mr. David Solomon, Sr., Mr. G. D. Walker, and Mrs. Mary Agnes Webb In June, 1940, the first patients were admitted to the new Helena Hospital at Midland Heights The hospital opened with 70 beds and 18 bassinets.

The need for an addition to the hospital became evident in 1952, so the Board of Trustees secured blueprints, specifications and bids to award a contract during the summer of 1953 for adding 16 beds and other facilities for Negro patients This annex was completed and opened for patients in June, 1954, at a total cost of $70,000.

In 1958 another expansion program was on the way through the cooperation of the Helena Hospital Association, The Hill-Burton Act and through a grant from the Ford Foundation New facilities added at that time were the surgical suite, obstetrical recovery room, nurseries, kitchen and dining room, laundry, pharmacy, central supply area, solarium, administration area, and 28 additional beds.

In 1963 a new wing housing the X-ray Department and three emergency rooms was opened. The area previously utilized by the X-ray Department was remodeled, providing additional space for expansion of the laboratory. New equipment was purchased for both the X-ray Department and the Laboratory New X-ray equipment provides opportunity to secure X-ray therapy for the first time in this area. New electronic blood counting apparatus was installed in the Laboratory to improve techniques and efficiency The area formerly occupied by

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the one emergency room was connected to the administration area.

On the same Sunday afternoon that the new X-ray and Emergency Room Wing were dedicated, ground was broken for a 25-bed extended health care facility which later was named Heritage Home. This unit became one of the first of its type to be built in this part of the country. The facility was carefully designed to provide the environment of a home away from home. Heritage Home displays a vigorous and expressive architecture which provides interior spaces filled with natural light and permits each individual room a view to an open interior court or a view to beautiful surrounding woodlands. Heritage Home is located adjacent to the general hospital for immediate medical care, should it become necessary This facility was one of the first in Arkansas to be rated a Skilled Classification’ by the Arkansas State Health Department Four other similar facilities have been patterned after Heritage Home in Arkansas, Tennessee and Georgia.

A school for educating practical nurses was opened at the Hospital in the fall of 1965. Those twenty original students will graduate in the fall of 1966. Education is a vital part of hospital operation and will become more and more significant as we attempt to keep up with the rapid changes in technology and health care programs for the citizens of Phillips County.

Helena Hospital is accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Hospitals The present Board of Directors includes; Mr. Dewey Moore, President. Mr. Francis Thompson, Vice President: Mr. Robert Howe, Treasurer Mrs. Michael Gradus, Secretary; Mrs. Herbert Hill, Mr. Cecil Hammett, Mr. F. R. McKnight, Mr. Lee Lawrence, Mr. Dave Liechty, Mr. C. E. Mayer, Mr. Walter Morris, Mr. John M. Moye, Mr. S. M. Newman, and Mr. Douglas Simmons.

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From the Helena Daily World. September 6, 1910.

BEECH CREST THEATRE

E. Newman, Manager
Program week of September 5th
Dixie Comedy Company
Four Act Vaudeville

Free Concerts at Beech Crest Park by Harrell’s Orchestra. The numbers that will be rendered consist of some of the latest, most popular and classical selections

Paul W. Harrell, Musical Director

Change of program Tuesday, Thursday and Friday

2 Reel of High Class Pictures

Price 10 and 15 Cents

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On March 27th, the Phillips County Historical Society enjoyed hearing Mrs. Lady Elizabeth Luker of Newport, Vice-President of the Arkansas Historical Association, and charter president of the Jackson County Historical Society. Mrs. Luker gave a historical marker to Helena during its Civil War Centennial in 1963, in memory of her grandfather, Gen James F Fagan. With Mrs. Luker when she visited our Society, was James L. Morgan, editor of the Jackson County Quarterly, who spoke briefly.

Mrs. Luker told of the restoration of the old county courthouse at Jacksonport, a few miles from Newport. The Jackson County Historical Society got off to a flying start, as it had to decide at its organizational meeting whether to undertake this project of saving the oldest remaining building in the county from imminent destruction, as it was about to be torn down by its owners.

The town of Jacksonport was an important steamboat port, acting as the gateway to northern Arkansas by way of the White and Black Rivers. Steamboat men did not want the proposed railroad to go through the steamboat landing, so it was put four miles away at a tiny place called Newport This was the beginning of the end for Jacksonport, and though some steamboat business went on until 1910, most of the Jacksonportites moved over lock, stock and barrel to Newport within a few years after the railroad was laid.

Mrs. Luker pointed out that the courthouse at Jacksonport is still of great sentimental value to the local inhabitants, as it symbolizes in a way the real beginning of their town, Newport. So the Jackson County Historical Society took upon itself the job of buying and reclaiming the old courthouse and turning it into a historical museum.

Money of course was needed, and the Society, through personal pledge, donations from businesses and clubs, pie suppers, postcards sent abroad to ex-residents of Newport, a duplicate bridge tournament had raised $7000 within a few months after its first meeting. These efforts have been supplemented by setting up a general memorial fund and asking for memorial windows and doorways.

The old courthouse had been used in its declining years for storage of grain and also as a poorhouse. The court room had been cut into eight bedrooms during this time. The process of restoration included taking down everything in the building that was not original. Much brick work and shoring up of supports had to be done, and a cottage moved on the grounds for a caretaker and his family.

The courthouse and surrounding acres, including the steamboat landing, have now been accepted into the state park system, which will be a great help financially When the whole project is completed, it will certainly draw many tourists whose paid admission will help maintain the place.

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The old courthouse will eventually boast an Indian room, a pioneer room, a genealogy room, a soldiers room, a turn-of-the-century room and others.

Mrs. Luker's talk was made even more interesting with the large photographs of the building and work in process that she brought with her.

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From the Helena Daily World. September 6, 1910

Music all this week at night

JAPANESE PARLOR

WOODS

Best Soda and Ice Cream

Best Service

Come and visit us. It will be a pleasure for us to show you our new store

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WAR EXPERIENCES OF P. O. THWEATT

Mrs. Dr. W. C. Russwurm

Dear Madam” A short time ago you requested me, in behalf of the U D C., to furnish you with a short sketch of my connection with the Confederate Army. As my connection with it was so short, I concluded to give them a short sketch of my private life and you and they can dispose of it as you see proper

I was born on a farm in Williamson County, Tenn. on the 10th day of Oct, 1834. In 1845, my father moved with his family to near Oakland, Mississippi. There I worked on the farm and attended the country schools. In 1855 I went back to Franklin and went to Harpeth Academy until 1856, at which time I returned to my home where I taught school at different places until January 1859, when I moved to Clarendon, Ark where I taught and studied law and obtained license in March, 1860.

When the war broke out, my older brother volunteered and went out in the First Regiment in April, and in June I closed our office and school and bought me a fine horse and went to Fort Smith and was mustered into service on the 13th of June in Churchill’s Regiment, and was Shutout on the 10th day of August in the Battle of Oak Hills. My left ankle received a compound fracture early in the morning and I was taken to a farm house which was converted into a hospital where I remained until in September.

The surgeons all decided that if I did not suffer amputation I would die. I told them I would die then for I had rather die than lose a leg. So I worried along with it and suffered agonies for weeks and months. I became so emaciated that my hip bones worked through the skin. I obtained a discharge so that I would not be subject to military rule and several of us who could not be moved to the general hospital toughed it out there. They detailed an excellent young man to take care of me. We had money of our own so we got along pretty well.

In Sept the reports began to come in that Curtis’ army was moving down on us. I hired a young man to take me in an ambulance down near Fayetteville where I boarded for some time and then went to Fayetteville and discharged the young man and nine of us started out in a small Over Land Coach. After two days travel my ankle began supurating and swelled up so I had to stop at a farm house and have it treated for some days. When I started again in a buggy and reached my sister's home in Prairie County and there I was attacked with Erysipelas in my wounded ankle and suffered the most excruciating pains I

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ever did from any cause.

There two of my brothers who had been discharged from the army met me and after a few days we went on down to Clarendon. And being the first wounded soldier to return I was most royally treated. One friend took me to his home and gave me a horse and buggy to use and our present Mayor Hugh Martin took me riding and treated me like a son. The ladies would send their carriages for me to visit them in the country and showed me every kindness, as though I was a near relative.

The next Spring I was elected Judge of the County and Probate Court of Monroe County. My principal business was to drive over the country and look after the families of the men who were in the Confederate Army and I am please to say there was no want nor suffering among them. When the Federals took possession of the county and burned my office I went to Little Rock and worked as Purchasing Agent for the Commissary department as long as I could be of any service and then went to Texas and remained until the war closed. Then I came back to Clarendon and in 1866 I was elected Prosecuting Attorney of the First Judicial District and served as such until I was removed from, or rather relieved of, the office under Reconstruction in 1868, when I came to Helena where I have lived ever since.

No doubt you ladies will think this sounds like a personal narrative which has but little to do with the Confederate War or the army and you may make whatever disposition of it you see proper.

Respectfully submitted,

P. O. Thweatt

June the 13th, 1918, just 57 years since I was mustered into the Confederate Army.

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CYPERT A MEMORY TOWN

by

Louise M. Griffin

The West has ghost towns, but Phillips County has its memory towns that have influenced the culture and growth of the County. Cypert, in the northwestern part of the County of Phillips, is one of these towns that has left its imprint on the pages of Arkansas history.

The humidity of the East Arkansas Delta region is such that empty buildings soon fall into rubble if left standing over a period of time. Industrious citizens seldom let outmoded buildings stand --- they are torn down and the usable lumber removed for future use.

While doing research with Mrs. Hinsly Harp (Sarah Beth Henderson Harp), a direct descendent of the Henderson and Thompson families, pioneers of the community, we found a newspaper clipping in an old family Bible, yellow with age, without date or by-line minus the name of the newspaper from which it was clipped yet it contained historical data, among other facts it established that the Community is a hundred years old in the year 1966.

Cypert history began ages ago when the Indians possessed the land now recognized as Phillips County. There had been a village situated on the bank of a creek as was evidenced by arrow-heads and other crude artifacts found.

As late as the nineteen-twenties and early thirties the writer's sons and their friends would bring arrow heads for her to see that had been found on a hill on Coffee Creek, in the Elbert Griffin fields situated on Road Two in front of the J. L. Turner pecan orchard.

At this same period of time, the late Mrs. Newton Jarrett would show visitors a stone used by the Indian squaws to grind corn for meal. She kept it in the backyard under large old trees and used it as a watering place for her baby chicks and setting hens There was a shallow indenture in the stone: the little chicks would not drown, and the mother hens could not tip it over and the water would stay cool in the stone under the shadows of the trees, so it still served a useful purpose This stone was found by the pioneer members of the J. T. Jarrett family.

The Cypert community was first known by the name of

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Coffee Creek because it was located on the south bank of the stream by that name A legend is told that a drunk teamster hauling merchandise from Helena tried to ford the creek when it was out of its banks because of heavy spring rains he saved himself and the team from drowning by cutting them loose from the wagon in midstream and swimming them to the opposite bank Because the rain continued he was unable to rescue his wagon until the waters had gone down Several hogsheads (barrels) of dried coffee beans floated from the wagon and washed downstream Soon the beans began to swell and the wooden staved hogsheads burst. Then for years after, coffee beans were to be seen floating on the waters of the creek and this incident decided its name.

A deviation from the Cypert story will explain to this generation that our forebears did not purchase ground and instant coffee packaged in tin and glass. as we do today, but they bought green coffee beans, scooped from barrels into brown paper pokes (bags), weighed on scales by a storekeeper and handed over the counter. The beans were taken home and were parched a golden brown and ground by hand with little square coffee grinders held between the legs, early each morning before breakfast, so the coffee would be fresh and lose none of its aroma.

The job of parching the coffee usually fell to the young ladies of the house and woe be the careless one who let the precious coffee beans burn. The grinding of the coffee was delegated to the very young who were up at the break of day with the oldsters. Many were the blue and pinched legs as the youngsters learned to grip the mill firmly between their legs as they turned by hand the handle of the coffee mill.

The first citizens of Coffee Creek of which there was a written record were N. B. Turner, F. F. Dawson, William and Woodson Thompson (brothers), J. T. Jarrett, W. H. and R. A. Henderson (brothers) and J. P. H. Graham. These pioneers laid the ground-work for the progressive community of Coffee Creek. They carved roads from the wilderness and maintained them by so many days each year spent in manual labor on them. They not only cleared ground and built their homes, stores, commercial cotton gins and sawmills, but also built a school and Salem Baptist Church, one of the oldest Protestant churches in Arkansas, according to an Arkansas historian, John Gould Fletcher. This was the only church there for years until then, the colored and white attended the same church. Years later the Church of Christ was built.

After the War Between the States the people were so busy trying to cope with ‘Carpet-bagger Rule’ and trying to re-

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established their finances that they had little time for anything else.

The citizens of the Coffee Creek Community petitioned the government for a post office in 1866 and their request was granted. Up until this time the citizens had to ride horseback over dusty roads in summer, and in winter the roads were almost impassable, but to get the mail they had to ride to Trenton and Marvell. During the Civil War, according to records of the Mount Vernon Baptist Association, they had to go to Helena to get their mail.

A request was made by the government for a name for the post office and the name Cypert was submitted. F. F. Dawson became the first postmaster and it was at his suggestion, accepted unanimously by the other citizens, that the town changed its name to Cypert in honor of J. N. Cypert of Searcy, then on the Circuit Judge bench Judge Cypert was an honorable man, revered and loved by friends and acquaintances. There are few citizens of Phillips County who know that Cypert was ever known by another name.

Cypert made history in 1932 when it was recognized by the State of Arkansas, by winning first place in a state-wide contest in beautification, sponsored by the State Extension Department.

(“Cypert, A Memory Town” will be continued in the next issue of the Phillips County Historical Quarterly.)

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EARLY HELENA NEWSPAPERS

by

Dale P. Kirkman

After the Arkansas Gazette and the Advocate, both Little Rock newspapers, the next newspaper in Arkansas was printed at Helena. This was the Helena Herald started in the fall of 1832 by Colonel John W Steele. Another paper was started at an early date by Colonel Henry L. Biscoe and William T. Youmans or Yeomans, a Kentucky printer who had worked for the Gazette. The date of origin of this paper is given as anytime from 1832 to 1835, and two different names are ascribed to it, according to the sources used, but the Helena Democrat is probably the correct one. Col Steele’s paper is generally conceded to have been the first one in Helena, and it was-in existence from 1832 to 1834, at which time Steele left Helena for Little Rock to start the Political Intelligencer turning the Helena Herald over to Samuel S. Smith. Publication of the Helena Herald stopped soon after.

Col Steele used his Little Rock paper as a political weapon for Governor John Pope. The Gazette Advocate and Helena Democrat were all against Pope, and made this fact known in no uncertain terms. Gov Pope then took the state’s printing contract away from the Gazette and gave it to Col Steele. At this time, one of the main functions of a newspaper was as a tool in the political arena. In many cases, newspapers were started not by professional newspapermen, but were launched into business by anyone who wanted to express his opinions. As a consequence, newspapers were similar to pages of a calendar in their life expectancy.

The Helena Democrat became the Constitutional Journal in 1836, with William Youmans remaining as editor. Its first issue was on March 8, 1836, it was a weekly paper (as were all of the early Helena papers) and it cost $4.00 a year, payable in advance. This paper had a lifetime of a year and a half, and before that time was up, Youmans, who was also postmaster of Helena, sold the paper to James M. Martin. 47 issues of the Constitutional Journal are available on microfilm, from March 8, 1836 to December 21, 1837.

The Constitutional Journal turned into the Helena Spy, with the first issue under that name coming out on March 10, 1838. It survived only a few months, and its management had several changes in that time D. Lafayette Gray was the original editor, and the paper was published every Saturday by Gray & Turbeville The next publishers were Turbeville &

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William P Devonport, followed by J. C. Turbeville & Co. 17 issues of this paper, from March 10, 1838 to September 24, 1838, are also available on microfilm.

The next paper of record in Helena was the Southern Shield, published by W. L. & Q. K. Underwood, its first issue appearing in late January or early February, 1840. This paper spanned a period of 30 years, lasting until 1870. Much of it is available on microfilm.

These early papers got a lot of their news from the New Orleans papers. The Southern Shield, Q. K. Underwood & Co., publishers, was proud to announce in 1850 that within a week after President Millard Fillmore’s Message to Congress, it was distributed to subscribers to the Shield. The Shield entered into local politics, too, in 1840 backing John Preston, Jr. for the state senate and William B McPherson and Fleetwood Hanks for the house of representatives. The editor and publisher, Mr. Underwood, had a ready retort again in 1850, when there was talk in the legislature at Little Rock of moving the state capital from Little Rock to Helena. The Little Rock papers had sneered at this idea, saying that Helena was subject to overflow and would not be a fitting place for the capital. The editor of the Shield responded that at least 1/2 of the Helena city limits was from 10 to 50 feet above the highest water.

By 1851, the office of the Shield had moved to a new building on State Street (Diagonal Street) north of the Methodist Church. That same year, the Shield was published by Q. K. Underwood and John M. Lacy, but by the next year the Shield was published by Underwood & Taylor, and in 1853, Underwood & Wilkins were the publishers, followed by Mr. Underwood again alone. At this time, the regular size of the Shield was four pages, and it had a competitor called the Democratic Star. The latter did not last long, 1854-1855, and in 1855 its office building was sold at public auction for $1,000, its purchasers being P. R. Cleburne, T. C. Hindman and William Weatherly.

One mention was found of a paper at Helena called the True Witness 1848. The first woman compositor in Arkansas started on this paper, which was owned by her father, W. W. Lewis. Another paper: of the time was The Bulletin run by William Bivins, who also owned a bakery shop.

The States Rights Democrat was a weekly that was started in Helena about 1854. Its early publishers were Virginius Hutchen and John R. Tabler, and its offices were on Main

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Street over the post office. Hutchen was quite a literary light and he had written and published books of verse. About 1857, Thomas C. Hindman became connected with the paper, possibly as editor, and the paper entered into the current political struggle between the state Hindman-Rector combination and the Johnson-Conway Dynasty, in contest for the governorship. One source says that this paper continued until 1865, with General Hindman maintaining his connection with it.

Other short-lived Helena papers were The Note-Book, started 1858, and the Western Clarion, operative in 1865. The Helena Weekly Clarion is known to have been in existence in 1870. In 1871, the Helena World was started by William R. Burke, with William H. Coates being briefly connected with it during that decade. Skipping many years to 1921, it is of interest to note that there were being published in the county, the Helena World (daily), the Phillips County Democrat (weekly), the Herald at Marvell (weekly), the Shield (weekly), the Royal Messenger (negro weekly fraternal) and the Interstate Reporter (negro weekly religious).

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TURKEY SCRATCH

as told to Carolyn R Cunningham

by

Jessie Holtzclaw Thompson

They used to tell a story that when you left Marvell and headed north toward the county line you could stop at every house and ask, ‘Where is Turkey Scratch?’ and for a few miles everyone would give the same answer ‘‘Oh, it’s right on up the road a ways, until unexpectedly a person would answer, Oh, you’ve just passed it --- turn around and go back a ways. You see, it was such a funny name, no one wanted to admit to living there.

But in 1930 when Jessie Holtzclaw, daughter of Mr. H. L. (Dock) Holtzclaw of Vineyard, married Arthur Thompson of the Turkey Scratch community, he said, ‘Jessie, let's give Turkey Scratch a home. And that’s what they did.

They built their store there, and Jessie's brother Aubrey, and a friend of his, built a big sign for it. On it they printed Turkey Scratch and they painted a large picture of a wild turkey in all its brilliant plumage. And there he stayed until the wind and rain faded him into oblivion, as the real turkeys have faded into oblivion. Up on the road they built a sign, ‘Welcome to Turkey Scratch,’ and Turkey Scratch has had a definite home ever since.

A long time ago there were thousands of wild turkeys in the vicinity, and naturally drainage was not as good then as it is now. The high water often came up and everything would be covered except perhaps a ridge of little knolls. The turkeys lived on these and in the trees. Mrs. Thompson says she has heard it said that the knolls looked like gardens, they were scratched up so by the turkeys looking for worms and insects.

Mrs. Thompson laughs as she tells this story of a little community she has come to love. She and her husband made a home for Turkey Scratch, and Turkey Scratch was a home to them.

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1860 CENSUS

PHILLIPS COUNTY

St Francis Township

Census taken by R. B. Macon and Gid. H. Macon, Assistant Marshals

(Legend Number 11 after a name means that that person was married within the year
Number 12 after a name means that that person attended school within the year
Number 13 after a name means that the person is over 20 years of age and can not read or write.)

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STRINGTOWN SCHOOL ROSTER 1899-1903

In appreciation of the work done by Alma Faust in compiling the story of Stringtown Road, Miss Grace Almer has presented to Mrs. Faust a very interesting record which came into her possession after the death of her sister, Carrie Almer Crager. Mrs. Crager was one of the last teachers of the Stringtown School.

It is a well preserved record - ‘‘Common School Register and Daily Record of Attendance, School District No. 6, Phillips County, Arkansas’’, this being the Stringtown School. First entry is for the school term beginning September 4, 1899, and ending December 22, 1899, showing Kate Napier, Teacher, holding 2nd grade of Certificate. For the term twenty-two pupils were enrolled as follows

Of the twenty-two enrolled, Martha and Walter Roach attended only half of the first day, Pauline and Roger Cobb did not attend after the middle of October, and Ina and Rosa Morrison were not enrolled until the first of December. Pertinent information as to the term included - total enrollment, 22, average daily attendance, 15; Number of pupils enrolled in Orthography, 20, Reading, 20, Written Arithmetic, 15; English Grammer, 6, Geography, 7, Penmanship, 16, History of the United States, 5, Higher Branches, 2, and number of visits made by Directors during the term - 0.

The enrollment for term beginning September 3, 1900, shows

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Kate and Henry Trainor and Willie Williams no longer in the school. Late in September four children of the McKivergan family, Helen, 15 Frank, 12, Delia, 11, and Richard, 10, were enrolled, and in October the Beard family children were added, Clara, 14, John, 12, James, 10, and Bart, 8. Two additional Morrison children came in, Lima, 10, and Claude, 5, but 5 year old Claude attended only two days. Harry and Everett Ewart, ages 13 and 12, were attending along with sisters Ola and Ivy. A mute reminder of a tragedy is noted in that Iva Brand was absent the latter half of September and all of November, and her name does not appear on the November roll. Iva Brand is remembered as the little girl who died of diphtheria.

The fall 1901 term shows Miss Napier holding First Grade of Certificate, and total enrollment down to 12. These included three Brand daughters, five year old Ina May having joined her older sisters, and six year old Clarence Gill now attending. Ola and Ivy Ewart were there, but Harry and Everett Ewart, also Robert and Cutis Weatherly, had evidently transferred to Jefferson in Helena Now showing were family names of Mc Kivergan, Morrison, and Beard. Average daily attendance down to six.

The September 1, 1902 term recorded a new teacher, Mrs. Florence E. Underwood, holding First Grade of Certificate. George and Maude Vernor, ages 14 and 12, had been added, also Almond Peterson, age 14. Josephine Gill, age 6, was attending with her brother Clarence. Henry Miller was the only one of his family enrolled, and Ivy Ewart the only one of her family. Total enrollment ten, with six listed in “higher branches.”

The last entry is for the 1903 term, and this extends from September 5, 1903, through January, 1904, an extra month having been added to the term. The teacher is shown as “F. Cook.” An attempt has been made to identify her as Miss Frances Cook, who taught at Poplar Grove and for many years at Marianna, and died during the fall of 1964 at the age of ninety-seven. However, no one has been found who can definitely remember this teacher, and members of Miss Cook’s family cannot identify the handwriting in the register as compared to Miss Cook’s writing in her later years. Total enrollment is shown as 7 and average daily attendance 3. All seven pupils were studying orthography, reading, mental arithmetic and penmanship, but only two were advanced to English grammer, geography, and History of the United States.

Some pages from the past, a nostalgic remembrance for the few now here to read their names on these rolls of yesteryear We hope to place the register in the county museum, and express deep appreciation to the Almer family for having preserved it for us.

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PART II

DIARY OF SUE COOK (1844-1912)

1864 – 1865

Introduction
by
Betty M. Faust

This diary of Susan Cook, living on a plantation in Phillips County near Barton, is an interesting and important personal document of the Civil War period. Covering the years 1864 and 1865, Sue Cook writes in detail of her life with her family on the plantation during these war years.

Susan Cook, or ‘Sis Sue’’ as she was called by her family, was nineteen years old when she began her diary on New Year’s Day, 1864. She records in her first entry of her diary that an escaped prisoner, Lt. Ed Hicks, CSA, stays overnight with the Cook family. Lt. Hicks visits the family frequently during the two years the diary was kept. After the war is over, Sue Cook marries this same Lt. Hicks who came to her house on New Year’s Day, 1864, as an escaped Confederate prisoner.

Mrs. Sue (Cook) Hicks and her husband, E. A. Hicks, lived at North Creek Community after their marriage. Mrs. Sue Hicks gave birth to several children, but only two sons reached adulthood. They were Jim Hicks and E. A. (Boss) Hicks, Jr. Jim Hicks (1868-1901) married Miss Marian Clark Smith (1866-1936) Their two daughters are Mrs. Jimmie (Hicks) Word of Memphis and Mrs. Sue Clark (Hicks) Aycock of DeValls Bluff. E. A. ‘‘Boss’’ Hicks married Miss Nellie Winbourn and their daughter is Mrs. Marian (Hicks) Tardy Newkirk of West Helena. She has a son, Randy Tardy, who now lives in Little Rock.

At the time of writing the diary, Sue Cook is part of a large family. Her sisters are Sallie, Nannie and Jennie, and her brothers are Robert Brooks and Roland James. “Brother Roland,” as he is called in the diary, is away fighting for the Confederacy when the diary begins. Later-the family hears that he has died from his battle wounds, and Sue Cook records her grief when she hears this news. Later she learns that this was a false report, and, of course, she is very happy. Some of the letters that Roland Cook wrote home have already been published in the Quarterly. (See the March 1965 and June 1965 issues)

In her diary Sue Cook tells of her Brother Roland’s return from the war in June 1865. In 1866 Roland J. Cook married Miss Lucy Winbourn, who is mentioned often in the diary as ‘‘Miss Lucy.’’ (His daughter is Mrs. Annie (Cook) McGinnis of Rondo).

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Sue Cook’s sister, Sallie, married Major S.H. King and is the great grandmother of John King, Jr. Nannie Cook married Rev. Francis A Jeffett and their son was the late Dr. Fletcher Jeffett. Jennie Cook married D. H. Crebs of Helena. Their children were the late Harry Crebs and Miss Margaret Crebs. Robert Cook married Miss Alice Scaife of Poplar Grove.

The original diary has been preserved all these years and is now in the possession of the author's granddaughter, Mrs. Marian (Hicks) Tardy Newkirk of West Helena. This historical document is a ledger-like notebook, 7 inches by 12 inches, containing 44 written pages (back and front) of good quality paper. Its covers are stiff cardboard. It is written in beautiful script which can be easily read if you are familiar with the style of writing of that day The binding is in fair condition with a few torn pages, but the text 1s intact The ink is slightly faded. Many years ago Sue Cook’s niece, Miss Frances Cook, realized the historical significance and interest, of the diary and she copied the entire diary by hand This copy of the diary is now in the possession of Winbourn Cook of Los Angeles, California. Several type written copies of the diary have been made from this copy so that the Cook family is quite familiar with the contents of the diary

The author of this diary lived the remainder of her life in Phillips County and some of her descendants still live here today Sue Cook Hicks died in 1912, age 66, and was buried in the Cook Cemetery near Barton This cemetery is located behind the spot where her home stood when writing this diary over a hundred years ago.

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Apr. 8 -
Pa came home in the night - had no news. Ed and Tab came by today on their way to camp. The scout has gone in, carried in negroes and stock from Mrs. Swan’s and from Mr. James Scaif’s. This is a day set apart by our president, Jeff Davis, as a day of fasting and prayer. I kept it rigidly until dark. My feeble efforts, I fear, will not accomplish much.

Apr. 9 -
A cold windy day. The Confederates have made another raid on the Yankee farms, capturing more mules. and horses. The lines are again closed in consequence.

Apr. 10 -
Another warm day at last. It seems that we are to have winter always. Heard today that Fisher had been killed. Mrs. Burnett was here this evening Received another “April Fool” this morning.

Apr. 11 -
Mrs. Joe Green, Mrs. Nat Graves, Dr Edmonson were here this evening The Feds are on Big Creek going toward Clarendon. They have caught Mr. Warren Smizer. Raining.

Apr. 12 -
Mr. Haywood Hicks was here this morning and said Forrest was making raids around Memphis, captured three hundred horses at one time, and that he had a train fifteen miles long going on into Mississippi.

Apr. 13 -
The scout went in last night, carried in Freddie Mayo, Capt. Edmonson, and Mr. Kitchens. Been reading, ‘‘Nemesus’’ by Marion Harland, a very interesting novel: one just suited to my mind. I have just finished “Woman’s Friendship’’ by Grace Argesiliar.

Apr. 14 -
Heard a report today that Gen Price has given the Feds an awful beating near Little Rock. “Tis glorious news if true. ‘Tis sad to think how many of our brave and much loved boys have fallen. I have several dear friends there, and they will be in the thickest of the fight when it does come, but ‘tis sweet to think that if they fall, it is in a great and just cause and such has the approval of High Heaven. I am staying with Mrs. Jarman tonight. Mrs. Fitzgerald and I played Euchre until eleven. Between us, Journal, I think there is a strange inconsistency in my writings!

Apr. 15 -

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The ‘Bulletin’ says that Forrest has captured Fort Pillow and Columbus, killed a great many negroes at the latter place. This is too good to be true I fear’ also we have retaken Missionary Ridge and Look Out Mountain We will anxiously wait for something definite.

Apr. 16 -
Heard today that Price had taken Little Rock but I don’t believe the report. Mr. Threlkild spent the day with us. Mr. Jennings Blount was here this evening Sis Sallie and Jennie spent the day with Mrs. Jones. Tennie Nickolsen is staying with the children tonight.

Apr. 17 -
Dr. Edmonson came this morning, brought some papers Forrest has taken Fort Pillow but not Columbus, but of seven hundred negroes in the Fort, not more were left than to tell the tale. Mr. Long of Cincinnati has made a Secession speech in Congress He was ably supported by Ferdinand Wood of New York, and the sympathies of others were with him They would not suffer him to be expelled Uncle B. Brooks spent the day with us. Miss Mary Yerby and Mr. Middleton, a Yankee merchant, were married in Helena a few days ago Wrote to Sargt Tom Sturnes today.

Apr. 18 -
A pretty day, but still too cold My birthday! Twenty years ago I first saw the light of this wicked world. I suspect it would have been better for me if it had been my last. Had three new pupils today. Several people from Cotton Plant called in to stay all night, coming from Helena. It is said some other place on the river is in Forrest's hands, not known yet what place. There is a general exchange now.

Apr. 19 -
Heard this morning that Steel had been driven from Little Rock and was coming back to Helena The best part of his army has been killed or captured. Oh! How I wish I knew it was so. Mrs. Sebastian died a few days ago. Her husband was in the United States Senate when the war began.

Apr. 20 -
Pa and Aunt Mary Brooks went to Helena this morning. Aunt M. is going to Mississippi. Cousin Molly is with us tonight Mrs. Joe Green has been here this morning Steele reported still retreating We shall hear something definite tomorrow.

Apr. 21 -
Mrs Jarman was here this evening Pa came home tonight. Little Rock is still occupied by Federals. There has been

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hard fighting between Shrevesport and Alexandria. Confederate victories. A contraband threatened to shoot Pa as he came out of Helena tonight Read M: Long’s speech this evening It is certainly good I respect and admire that man. If others will take the same stand, I think we shall soon have peace. I received a letter from Mrs. John Tilden of Carlyle, Illinois, this evening’ also one from W. A. Robbins a cousin of mine who is a prisoner at Fort Delaware in Delaware. Old Mrs. Lambert is here

Apr 22 -
A cloudy day. Hope for a rain for we need it very much Reported fight in Virginia. The Federals gunboats said to have been destroyed in James River by a French Fleet. Dr Edmonson was here today lam staying with Mrs. Weatherly and Pink tonight.

Apr 23 -
Mr. Hutchinson and Dr. Edmonson and Pink W. have been here Today. Rained all day and turning colder. Everyone seems to be in such good spirits now - think we shall have peace soon Peace!! That word has a close connection to God and Heaven! We poor down trodden and oppressed citizens of the Confederacy will know how to appreciate it when it becomes certain.

Apr. 24 -
Went to Uncle Brock s this morning, stayed till three o'clock, then came by to hear M: Vineyard preach. The text was the 13th Chapter of Matthew, 20th to 24th verses. The first sermon I have heard since the lamented Maj Sam Corley preached in Helena before his departure for war There were twenty girls out. Heard today of the capture of Lieut Casteel, Tom Quarles, Lieut Yerby, and Mr. Joel Lambert.

Apr. 25 -
A warm plesant day! I can almost see the trees growing. Heard McCra had whipped a scout sent out from Clarendon. Staying with Mrs. Graves tonight Mrs. J. Lambert and Mrs. Beasley were here. They are trying to get to Helena. Some Feds dug into Mrs. B’s son’s grave to his coffin searching for arms. Was such an atrocity ever committed before?

Apr 26 -
rm day. Read a speech made by Hon Howard Cobb Good! It was sent to Mrs. Jones by Tom. Colonel Dobbins is reported as coming in here with his regiment. Willie Renfro is staying with us tonight.

Apr. 27 -

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Saw a Bulletin of the 25th this morning. No news. Four men stopped in for supper and horse feed tonight. They are suspicious looking characters and Pa not being at home we feared them, but they left without troubling anything

Apr. 28 –
Been cloudy all day and raining this evening. Mr. E. Hicks came down from Cotton Plant this morning. Three ladies from Big Creek are staying with us tonight, going to Helena.

Apr. 29 -
Raining all day. Sis Sallie and Nannie are sitting up tonight with Mrs. Smith. Mr. Renfro was here this evening. Mr. E. Hicks is with us tonight

Apr. 30 -
Mr. E. Hicks spent the day with us. Raining still

May 1 -
A clear beautiful day. It reminds me of the time when peace and plenty reigned in our land, and we would be making preparations for May celebrations. Mr. E. Hicks came by on his way to camp this morning. Heard today that Plymouth, N.C., is in the hands of the Rebs with its garrison of two thousand Yanks, and a Rebel ram sunk two gunboats. Went to Mrs. Quinland’s this eveing to see Lizzie, one of the little pupils who is very sick. I fear she will never recover

May 2 -
Heard the report today that France had recognized the Confederacy and was going to send fifty thousand troops to assist her. And heard again that Steele had been defeated near Little Rock, but it may all blow over in a few days. Went to see Lizzie Quinlan again today

May 3 -
A rumor is in circulation now, came from town this evening, that Price has taken Little Rock: Fort Smith, Pine Bluff, and Batesville, but I hardly believe it. There is this much about it: there is warm work back there. So much mystery is connected with all their movements, gives credit to all these reports. Thank God! The soldiers of the Trans Mississippi Dept. are rising in the eleventh hour to throw the tyrants yoke from their necks and break the bonds and fetters they have quietly worn for some time. And it is my heart-felt prayer that they may sucseed.

May 4 -
Heard today that Joe Stayton and Lieut. Blackburn have been

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captured, a report which I hope is not so. Dr. Edmonson dined with us and Mrs. Fitz spent the evening. Went to Mr. Quinlan’s this evening.

May 5 -
Mr. W. Keesee and Mr. E. Hicks dined with us today. Ann W. and I are sitting up with Lizzie Quinlan. We are alone but having a fine time.

May 6 -
Been very sleepy all day Emma and Charlie Hicks came to the school house after me to spend the night at Mrs. Hutchinson's. Joe S has not been captured as reported.

May 7 -
Stayed all day at Mr. Hutchinson’s Emma and Ann came home with me. Cousin Mollie Brooks was here. Mrs. Smith is dying. Mr. Hoyt and Mr. Lathan while trying to get some horses off the Yankees farms were killed. They were two brave men and I am sorry to hear of their death.

May 8 -
Been at Mrs. Smiths all day. Went to see her this evening. The lines are closed tight at Helena. I hope it is because they have heard bad news.

May 9 -
Pine Bluff reported in ashes. Steele is at Little Rock with the remnant of his army Mr. Hoyt is not dead yet, but one arm has been taken off and it is thought the other will be. Went to Mrs. Quinlans this evening, had such a nice ride.

May 10 -
We had a hail storm today. Some of the balls were as large as grape shot. It has been raining all day and turning so much colder. Charlie Hicks took tea with us tonight. Mrs. Warren Smizer was buried at the Camp-Ground yesterday. Gen Buford let Mr. Smizer come out to see her buried. He went back next morning

May 11 -
More good news than a little! Gen. Price thundering at the gates of Little Rock, demanding entrance in such loud authority that Steele has agreed to let him in if he will treet his “colored sojiers” as prisoners of War! Some reinforcements started from Missouri to Steele were captured on the way. Banks did not retreat fast enough to suit Kirby Smith so he gave him another thrashing which will run him full mill into New Orleans. Lee has had a fight with Grant and defeated him. This is all Grape

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Vine news. Thank God! This department has still honor left and brave hands to defend it Oh! How my heart swells with pride when I think all this was achieved by the brave boys of the West. Many of them so dear to me

May 12 -
Read speech of Gov Vance of N C this evening. It is excellent, portraying our position in glorious terms. He is far from being in favor or returning to the Union again. Mr. Jarman and Mrs. B. Green were here this evening. Maj. Graves is spending the night with us

May 13 -
Went to Mrs. Graves this evening - am spending the night there. The Federal lines are still closed. It is reported in Helena that Lee’s army has been defeated in Virginia

May 14 -
Mag and I went to Mr. Renfro’s this morning, crossed Big Creek on a raft. We took a ride this evening and went through Trenton. We have been sitting up late tonight playing cards.

May 15 -
Came home this evening. Had a delightful ride across the creek. Met several persons from town. No news of interest. Ed and Tab Hicks were here today

May 16 -
Still reports circulate that Lee has been defeated. Mr. Hutchinson and Heber Jones were here today

May 17 -
Mr. and Mrs. Jarman and Mrs. Fitzgerald spent the day with us. I think summer will soon be here.

May 18 -
A very warm day. I am staying with Adelie Nelson tonight. Have had a plesant time.

May 19 -
Mr. J. Blount took tea with us and Mrs. Frasaire is spending the night

May 20 -
There is a report that Lee is badly defeated and that he is wounded in Richmond. Carrie Edmonson is with us tonight.

May 21 -
Went to call on Mrs. Wynn this morning. A scout of twenty two

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Yankees or rather refugees and deserters have been all over the country robbing and pilfering everyone’s houses. They came here, first, stole a horse, all of Ma’s hams, turkeys, and chickens. Young, an orphan boy Pa was taking care of stole a saddle and went with them. Would to God it were in my power, the heart blood of all such demons would drain out before another day. Tom and Sam Ferguson were hung yesterday by the military authority of Helena. On the gallows they professed to being Southern men, wished every Yank would sink, and the South would be victorious. Said they had nothing against the murdered men and hoped to meet them in Heaven.

May 22 -
Lincoln has issued a proclamation calling for four hundred thousand more men to help take Richmond. Gen. Sigel has been defeated by Breckinridge and Buckner. So says the “Memphis Argus’. Went to Church this morning. Heard a fine sermon. The text was the 28th Chapter 8th verse of Paul's epistle to the Romans, “Everything worketh well for those who love the Lord”.

May 23 -
The Federal papers acknowledge-a loss of sixty thousand men in Virginia and Lee is still near Spotsylvania Courthouse.

May 24 -
Mr. Hutchinson was here this evening, said he had heard Maj. Carmichael was dead. All the Yankee army have been sent to Helena from Little Rock and Pine Bluff. They are expecting these places to be attacked. Everyone believes Dobbins is going to take all the soldiers across White River. Dick Balwin was killed on Old Town last week

May 25 -
Mr. W. Burnett was here today. Mr. A. Polk and Mr. Jack Smizer called this evening. Lee and Grant are still fighting. Lee is in the same position. Beauregard and Beast Butler have had a fight in which the Beast was worsted and had to retreat. There is a report that the Feds have gotten one of Brother Roland’s letters which caused them to depredate upon Pa. I would kiss the chastening rod if he caused it to be administered.

May 26 -
A cloudy day.

May 27 -
Went to Mrs. Nicholson’s this morning. Am sitting up with Monroe Freeland, one of my little pupils. He has pneumonia.

May 28 -

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Charlie Hicks was here this morning. Said he had a news paper which stated military operations had been suspended for ten days in Virginia. They have the men but not a general who can compete with Lee. Went to Mrs. Quinlan this evening.

May 29 -
Went to Mrs. Sam Weatherby s this evening. Tommie Nicholson and Charlie Hicks were here today, had some new papers which say we are all right on the Potomac.

May 30 -
A clear sultry day. It seems as a punishment for our sins, we are never to have any more rain.

May 31 -
The last of the month of flowers! It is my prayer that next year your most prominent robes may be the olive. I have been confined to my room with a slight indisposition the whole day. Mr. Hutchinson dined with us today. Mrs. Clemens and Mr. Denton are married.

June 1 -
Mr. W. Renfro was here this morning. Cloudy and threatening rain. Miss Anna Nunn and a Fed were married the other day. They started to Europe as soon as the ceremony was over.

June 2 -
Mr. Jarman was here this morning. Eight Confederate soldiers passed here today. Mr. Ed Hicks is spending the night. Fighting at Little Rock. Raining.

June 3 -
Been raining all day. Mr. Ed Hicks and Lieut. Winbourn spent the day with us. Mr. B. Green was here today.

June 4 -
Mr. Hutchinson came by on his way to camp. Maggie Graves spent the day with us. Went to Mrs. Jarmans this evening. Heard that Lee was retreating toward Richmond.

June 5 -
Went to Uncle B. Brooks today. There is a scout on Spring Creek road. Started here, but never got here. Turned back.

June 6 -
Two Confed. soldiers passed today. Say the Feds camped at Mr. Threlkild’s last night and crossed Big Creek at Wallace Ferry this morning. Mrs. Dunn spent the day with us.

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June 7 -
Nat Graves was here today. The scout has gone in.

June 8 -
Been raining nearly all day. Mr. B. Green was here this morning. I have seen four or five Confed. soldiers.

June 9 -
Went to Mr. Quinlands and Nicholson’s this evening, got nearly home and was caught in a heavy rain. Ed and Tab Hicks are here tonight.

June 10 -
Mr. W. Renfro was here this evening. Ed and Tab Hicks are with us tonight.

June 11 -
Mrs. Fitzgerald spent the morning with us. A report is in circulation that Grant is falling back in Virginia. Ann Weatherby is with us tonight.

June 12 -
Mr. Vineyard preached at the school house again today. Pa got some newspapers today. Nothing of interest except a speech of Congress from Illinois. It is a very good one. Mrs. Clemens and Mr. Denton are not married as reported.

June 13 -
Mr. Hicks was here this morning; Mr. Renfro this evening.

June 14 -
Mrs. Jamison’s only child was buried near here this afternoon. Mr. E. Hicks stayed until bed time. He is starting across White River. Mr. Hutchinson was here today.

June 15 -
Cloudy again. I fear we shall have more rain. This has been such a lonely day.

June 16 -
Heard today that Forrest had killed and captured all except three thousand. Yanks of a scout of eight thousand. Captured all their guns and train.

June 17 -
Been raining nearly all the morning. It seems that since it has commenced that it is always to rain. Went to Mrs. Kiljo’s this evening - took supper at Mrs. Graves-and Mr. Green came home with me.

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June 18 -
A clear, warm, sultry day. Dr. Edmonson was here this morning. He had heard that Wheeler had made a dash on Sherman’s rear and captured all of his trains. Went to Mrs. Blount’s and Mrs. Johnson's this evening. Had a delightful ride on horse back.

June 19 -
Been reading “Thinks I to Myself” and the life of “Peter Wilkings" today. Very nice Sabbath reading, but I get so lonely. I am compelled to read something of the sort. And I have been reading some in “The First Year of The War.” My heart swells with pride when I read accounts of some battles. For was not my dear brother there? Did he not assist in taking that battery? Or was he not one of the many who so gallantly drove enemies from their breastworks? Yes, he was there. The world will never know it, but I know it. Miss Miranda Harris and Col. Duncan were married.

June 20 -
Been raining. I am staying with Miss Mag Weatherby tonight.

June 21 -
We had another shower today. Heard today that Mr. Joe Smith had died in prison. Mr. Denton and Maggie Moore were married at four o’clock this afternoon and started to Memphis immediately

June 22 -
Mr. Hutchinson was here today. He was just from Helena, but had no news. Been raining nearly all day.

June 23 -
Mrs. J. Lambert came this morning. Mr. Haywood Hicks, Uncle B. Brooks and Mr. W. Renfro dined with us today

June 24 -
Mrs. Lambert and I are at Mrs. Harrymans tonight.

June 25 -
Came to Uncle Brooks this morning.

June 26 -
Came home this evening. Heard Shelby is at Trenton

June 27 -
Shelby is not at Trenton but Col. Dobbins with a regiment of men is there. Gen. Shelby has taken and destroyed a gunboat in White River. A flag of truce went to Helena today to try to effect an exchange with men that were taken on the boat. I am

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at Mrs. Graves tonight. Part of the flag is here.

June 28 -
Aunt Mary and Cousin Hattie Brooks were here this afternoon. Charlie Hicks was here today. There is a flag of truce here tonight. Capt. Jones and two men going down on the same business as the others.

June 29 -
A warm sultry day. The mosquitoes are bad enough to try the patience of Job. Mr. Ed Hicks called this morning. Miss Mag Weatherby visited us this afternoon. The Flag is with us again tonight. They do not know that they have accomplished anything, the communications is sealed.

June 30-
Charlie Hicks came by on his way to camp this morning. He has joined the Army. Pink Weatherby was here today. Dr. Edmonson spent the morning.

July 1 -
Pink and I went to Mr. Hutchinson’s this afternoon. Emma Hicks came home with us to spend the night. Mrs. Nichelson came to the school house this afternoon. Gen. Grant has fallen back from Fredericksburg to City Point. Mrs. Furgerson died today.

July 2 -
Aunt Mary Brooks, Mrs. Dowd, and Cousin Mollie Brooks spent the day with us. Mollie Cooke and Annie Lambert came here from Helena today. They are going to spend some time with us.

July 3 -
A warm sultry and very lonely day. Mr. Jennings Blount and Tommy Nicholsen called.

July 4 -
Mrs. Scaife spent the day with us. This day one year ago Old Dad Price was thundering at the gates of Helena demanding admittance very authoritatively, which I am sorry to say he did not secure. I ever shall remember this day with sorrow, but I feel proud of the conduct of our boys in that charge even if their efforts were not crowned with success.

July 5 -
Mr. Hutchinson was here this morning. I have been confined to my room all day with a severe headache. Jennie is quite sick.

July 6 -
My school closed today. My health would not admit of my teaching any more. Monroe Matthis spent today with us. We sent

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for the doctor this afternoon for Jennie. We are sitting up with her tonight

July 7 -
Jennie is much better today. Mrs. Bart Green was here this morning. Mrs. Graves is here tonight. We have reports of several Confederate victories in Georgia and Virginia, but can learn no particulars. It is my heartfelt prayer that it may be even better than we have heard

July 8 -
Mr. and Mrs. Hutchinson spent the day with us. Little Percy Dunn is dead. Gen Buford would not let him be brought to the country to be buried.

July 9 -
Went blackberry hunting this afternoon. Mrs. J. Lambert is with us tonight. She came for Annie. Lou Landford died this morning.

July 10 -
Preaching in the neighborhood today. Mr. Renfro was here this afternoon. The ‘Alabama’ has been sunk.

July 11 -
Mrs. Blount spent the day with us. Went to Mr. Nichelson’s this afternoon. Little Sallie Lanier died today.

July 12 -
Mrs. Graves, Mrs. Renfro, and Mrs. Green were here this afternoon. Mollie Cook went back to Helena today.

July 13 -
I received a letter from J. K. Stayton this morning. The poor fellow is sick: Went to Mrs. Graves this afternoon.

July 14 -
Maj. Sale and Liet. Wilbourn called this morning. Mrs. S. Weatherby and Mr. Standifer were married this afternoon at four o’clock. Mr. and Mrs. Renfro and Mrs. Green are with us tonight.

July 15 -
My cook has been sick for several days and I think I have been thoroughly initiated in the duties of the culinary department. Mrs. Graves and Mr. Jarman were here today.

July 24 -
Went to Uncle B. Brooks’ on the sixteenth - - came home this

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afternoon. Found Mr. F. Slaughter here. He is a Missourian who was wounded at the battle of Helena, lost a foot. There was a scout out on the Spring Creek road today.

July 25 -
Went to Mrs. Robinson's today to church. Her little boy was baptized. Coming home we got to the Spring Creek road just in time to see Dobbins and a portion of Shelby’s command pass. They were going toward Helena. It is surmised they are going to destroy the government farms

July 26 -
We were aroused about daybreak by a very loud knocking at the door. Opening the door we found standing there the Brigade Surgeon of the command here, Dr Washington. He wanted us to prepare bandages for him. The brigade was passing at the time. A large scout of negroes had gone out on the L. R. and the Confederates were trying to head them off. About eight o clock the fight began We could hear every gun distinctly. It lasted three hours. Reinforced by three hundred cavalry men the negroes made their way back to Helena. We cannot learn what the Federal loss was: ours was small. Lieut. Wilbourn, a noble fellow, was killed. Four men were brought here dead. I saw the coffin containing the remains of one of them pass just now. He was silently buried by torch light. The whole command is camped here tonight.

July 27 -
The other soldier was buried today. His father got here soon this morning. The brigade went across the creek this morning. There was a report that the Yanks were out, but it was unfounded. Lieut. Wilbourn was buried, was buried at the camp ground tonight.

July 28 -
Mr. Jarman came over this morning. We were all sitting quietly on the portico. Hearing a noise we looked around and Brother Roland was there. He had returned to us once more after an absence of nearly three years. His health is very good. His wound has entirely healed. We wept with job at beholding him once more. It seems all like a dream. That is too much happiness. Most of his friends have called to see him.

July 29 -
We had the day mostly to ourselves. Brother R. and I went to Mr. Jarmans this afternoon. Cousin Mollie and Hattie came down this afternoon. Ed Hicks was here tonight. Gave-us quite a scare. We thought it was Yankees when he knocked. Gen. Buford is furious about his negroes being killed, says he is going to destroy everything in the country

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July 30 -
Tab Hicks came over this morning, and we all went fishing; had a nice time but caught no fish. Charlie Hicks took supper with us.

July 31 -
Mr. Jarman spent the morning. Mrs. Jones and Heber called to see Brother R. this afternoon. Been raining

Aug. 1 -
Col. Dobbins has gone down to destroy the Yankees farms at the river. 1 fear we shall have to suffer for it. Capt. Turner was here today.

Aug. 2 -
Col. Sale and Mr. Burnette were here today to see Brother but he was at Uncle B. Brooks. Been raining.

Aug. 3 -
Brother R. left this morning. Pa went with him to the river. Mr. Jarman spent the afternoon.

Aug. 4-
Pa got back this morning. Brother R. crossed last night. The last papers say Longstreet is near Harrisburg, Pen. Mr. E. Hicks was here today.

Aug. 5 -
Nannie and Jennie Jones spent the day with Jennie. Dr. Edmonson was called in this evening to see Katy. Mr. Dixon and Mr. Lidelle took supper with us.

Aug. 6 -
Little Katy Mitchell died tonight very suddenly. We did not know she was much sick until a few hours before she died. Maj. Graves is with us sitting up. Mr. Ed Hicks and eight other men took dinner with us today

Aug. 7 -
Went to the camp ground to the burial this afternoon. Came back by Mr Nicholson’s and got some nice watermelons. Mrs. Burnett and Mrs. Hutchinson were here when we came back.

Aug. 8 -
Capt. Crawford spent the day. Mr. E. Hicks was here this morning. Three soldiers took supper with us. There is a report that Gen. Buford has gone home on a thirty days furlough. I hope he'll never get back.

Aug. 9 -

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Sewed on a blouse for Mr. Slaughter all the morning. Nannie and I went to Mrs. Freeland’s this afternoon. A scout was out at Mr. James Smizer’s last night.

August 10 -
Mr. Slaughter and I rode away out this afternoon. We went to Mr. Jarman’s and Mrs. Graves. Heard that twenty five hundred Feds had been captured in Georgia, and that we had taken Brownsville in this state with a thousand Yanks.

Aug. 11 -
Raining. Wrote to Ben Reynolds, prisoner.

Aug. 12 -
Capt. Crawford was here today. Got some new Yankee papers, but they have no news.

Aug 13 -
Ma and I spent the afternoon at Mrs. Nicholson's. Pink Weatherby and Mary Crosby are staying all night.

Aug 14 -
Went to Mrs. Quinlands and Mrs. Freeland’s this morning. Went to church this afternoon.

Aug. 15 -
Mr. Hutchinson and Mrs. Green were here this afternoon. I went home with Mrs. Green and it rained so I had to stay all night. Mrs. Turner came out from town tonight with some new papers. There are two good speeches in them, one from E. Etheridge and the other from Mr. Voorhees of Indiana.

Aug. 16 -
Mrs. Fitzgerald and Sue Johns were with us the night. Mrs. Lambert came to Mrs. Graves from town this afternoon and sent for me. I am spending the night. She brought us several letters one from Brother Roland written previous to his return home, and one from Cousin A. Robbins in Fort Delaware

Aug. 17 -
Pa went down on Old Town this morning, and the rains have prevented his getting back.

Aug. 18 -
Pa came back completely drenched. Joe Stayton and nine other soldiers dined with us.

Aug. 19 -
Raining all day.

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Aug. 20 -
Still cloudy. Fannie Smith and Mary Morrison spent the day. Mr. Hutchinson and Tab Hicks spent the afternoon. Tab is spending the night.

Aug. 21 -
Mrs. Jamisen, Mrs. Dowd, Aunt Mary and Cousin Mollie spent the day. Mrs. J is with us now

Aug. 22 -
Mr. Jarman and Mr. Blount were here today. Mrs. J and I spent the day with Mrs. Blount. Mr. Renfro took supper with us.

Aug. 23 -
Mr. Blount, Mr. K Graves, Emma Hicks, and Ann Weatherby were here today.

Aug 24 -
Mrs. Fitz --, Sue Johnson, Jennie Graves, Carrie Edmonson, Nannie, and 1 spent the day with Mrs. Wynn. We had a fine time

Aug 25 -
Mrs. Scaife, Mr. D. Blount and I went to Uncle B. Brooks today. Mrs. S. is with us tonight. Forrest has made a raid into the heart of Memphis.

Aug. 26 -
Mrs. Bart Green was here today. She had heard of fighting near Little Rock. The Feds were worsted. I am staying with Ann Weatherby tonight.

Aug. 27 -
Sue Johnson, Mrs. Fitzgerald and Carrie Edmonson spent the day with us. Jennie was sick, therefore she could not come. Mr. Hutch--- was here this morning. Mr. Blount and Mr. Jarman were here this afternoon. There is a report that the Secesh have Pine Bluff. Mrs. Jamison went home this morning.

Aug. 28 -
Rain nearly the whole day. St. Charles evacuated by the Federals. Col Moore of Helena died a few days ago.

Aug 29 -
The great Chicago Convention meets today. I am very anxious to hear the proceedings. A warm day.

Sept. 4 -
I have been staying with Jennie Graves and Sue Johnston several days. Came home this morning. Found a “Times” of the 27th here. Some very good speeches in it made by Vallindigham

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Richardson and others in Chicago. Charlie Hicks and Lieut. Yerby were here this afternoon.

Sept.5 -
Began teaching school again this morning. Had nine pupils.

Sept. 6 -
Had three more pupils today. Four soldiers passed today. One of them told me McCleland had been nominated for President and Pendleton vice by the Chicago Convention.

Sept. 7 -
Mrs. Graves died this morning. I am sitting up with her body tonight. There is a report that Atlanta and a great number of our brave boys have surrendered to Sherman.

Sept 8 -
Mr. Slaughter left us this morning He has gone west to our Army.

Sept. 9 -
I am staying with Ann Weatherby tonight. Went to see Mrs. Nicholsen this afternoon. Heard that Mollie Bailey of Helena and a Mr. Manning were married

Sept. 10 -
Misses Betty and Ruth Stayton spent the day with us. Been confined to my room with that everlasting trouble of mine—sick headache. Received a letter from Miss Lucy Winbourn and Mrs. Tilden. Emma Hicks is with us tonight.

Sept. 11 -
We all went to church today. Heard two sermons. Went to Uncle Brooks to dinner. Lieut. Yerby and Col. Seaman are here. Emma and Ann are spending the night.

Sept. 12 -
Read some good speeches made in Chicago. All of them are for peace.

Sept. 13 -
Have seen nothing new today. Tommie Nicholson is quite sick, had a congestion chill. Sue Johnson is very sick. We have so much congestion. Mr. Arthur Robinson died at Fort Delaware with small pox last month.

Sept. 14 -
Received three letters from Brother today. He writes gloomily of Atlanta, it has fallen with a portion of his command. Gen. John Morgan was killed. Harden reported killed

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Brother is looking for a raid from Holly Springs, Mississippi, where he is. Lieut. Yerby and Mr. Seaman are here.

Sept. 15 -
Dr. Edmonson was here this afternoon. Miss Sallie McMayen died today.

Sept. 16 -
Received a note from Mrs. Jones and a new Bulletin.

Sept. 17 -
Three Confederates came to our house this afternoon. They say Dobbins Regiment is at Pocahontas, going to Missouri. I am staying with Mag Graves tonight.

Sept. 18 -
Went to Mr. Jarman’s this morning. Mrs. Nicholsen and Tommie spent the afternoon. Ann and Pink were here this afternoon.

Sept. 19 -
Mrs. Thralkild and Mrs. Dade spent the day with us. Went to see Sue Johnson this afternoon. She is still quite sick. Misses Nannie and Kate Edwards are staying with us tonight.

Sept. 20 -
There is a rumor that Grant and Lee have had another fight. Lee got the best of it. Wheeler has possession of Nashville. Ann Renfro was buried at the Graves home this afternoon. I received a letter from Tom Starnes tonight, he is a prisoner at Camp Chase, Ohio

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*** NEW MEMBERS

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In Memoriam: Mrs. J. W. Butts, one of our Charter Members, died April 4, 1966.

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Particular thanks go to Mrs. Joe Pillow for typing most of the copy for this issue of the Quarterly

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We would be happy to get any family histories, whether long or short, to print in the Quarterly. This has been suggested by several members, as many of the County Quarterlies in other parts of the state regularly include them. If you come across anything else of Historic interest — newspaper clippings, old letters, etc. — Please bring them to the attention of one of the Quarterly Editors. We need articles.

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