My Genealogy Hound

J. B. Herndon, the popular merchant of Bradley Station, was born in this county on February 9, 1860, and here he attained his growth and was schooled, received the best education that the common schools afforded. He was married September 20, 1888, to Miss Lola Velvin, who was born in Georgia in 1867. Her father, R. C. Velvin, is now living in Texas. Their marriage has been blessed in the birth of one child, a daughter—Ella W. In 1885 Mr. Herndon began life’s battles for himself by engaging in the saloon business on Red River, but in 1888 he disposed of these interests, and opened a general store in Walnut Hill, continuing there about one year, and then came to Bradley. Here he commenced a general merchandise business, which he has successfully conducted ever since, carrying a stock valued at $2,500, and he is conceded to be a very capable young business man. His wife is a member of the Baptist Church, in which she is one of the most active workers, and is an intelligent and amiable lady. J. B. Herndon is one of seven children—three boys and four girls—born to the marriage of J. D. and Eliza (Cramtree) Herndon, both of whom were natives of this county and are now deceased. The father departed this life in March, 1872, and his widow on January 1, 1880. The paternal grandfather was a native of Kentucky, and emigrated to Arkansas at an early day, being one of the early pioneers of this State, and here he passed the remainder of his life. He was a farmer by occupation, as was his son also, the father of our subject. Five of the seven children born to the parents are still living: Zurie (deceased), Mattie (deceased), Ida, J. B., R. F., Lola and J. D.