My Genealogy Hound

William J. Little, of the W. J. Little Grocer Company, Hot Springs, Ark., is a native of White County, Ark., born February 23, 1843, and is the son of Elijah Little, of South Carolina, who emigrated to Arkansas about 1833, locating in White County, where he died in 1882. William J. Little’s time was divided in early youth between assisting on the farm and in attending the common schools, in which he received a fair education. In 1861 he enlisted in the Confederate army, and served until the surrender. After the cessation of hostilities he returned home, and there remained until 1865, when he went to Little Rock and secured a position as clerk in a store. After remaining there about two years, he went to St. Louis and was traveling salesman for some five years. In 1871, coming to Hot Springs, he engaged in the mercantile business with M. C. O’Bryan, which association continued about four years, when the firm of Little & Jenkins was organized. Mr. Little soon bought out Mr. Jenkins and formed a stock company, with the title of The William J. Little Grocer Company, which is still the firm name. They carry about $75,000 worth of merchandise and are doing an extensive business. Mr. Little was married in 1869 to Miss Ella Sumpter, of Hot Springs, and has one son. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity, having advanced as far as the Commandery.