My Genealogy Hound

James B. Hill, an enterprising and highly successful farmer of Howard County, Ark., was born in Lawrence District, S. C, April 7, 1849. Three years of his childhood were spent in Dallas County, Tex., and at the early age of seventeen he commenced to make a career for himself, by teaching and giving much of his attention to agricultural pursuits. In 1871 he moved to his present farm in Howard County, where he owns about 2,000 acres of exceedingly valuable land. His house is beautifully situated in the center of the farm of about 160 acres. Having been licensed as a minister of the Methodist Episcopal Church, South, in 1875, and ordained in 1878, Mr. Hill is a local preacher, preaching at various points in Howard and adjoining counties. He is also a Master Mason, and a prominent Democrat. October 25, 1871, he was married to Mrs. Mary E. Odell, of Arkansas, a daughter of Finis Reed. Mrs. Hill is living at present, and their family numbered five. One daughter, Lula D., died August 31, 1875, and Ida F., J. R., Jessie L. and John W. are now living. Mr. Hill's father and mother were both natives of South Carolina, and were married in Lawrence District, S. C., in 1840. They had twelve children, of whom John P., Thomas J., James B., Sarah Z., William Y., George W., Ella F. and Mattie E. are living.