My Genealogy Hound

Rev. L. K. Obenchain, pastor of the Baptist Church of Haynes, was born in Botetourt County, Va., on January 23, 1841, being a son of Peter M. Obenchain, also of that county, and of German descent. He was reared on a farm in his native county, and received a good education in the common schools, later attending Roanoke College, and also Alleghany College, in Greenbrier County, Va. He was first located, after entering the ministry, in the mountains of Rock Bridge County, having been ordained at Mill Creek Church, where he remained three years. Coming to Arkansas in 1869, he was occupied in preaching at Phillips Bayou, and also taught school for three years, the following three years serving at Forrest Chapel. He next had charge of the Salem Church, of Phillips County, and of the churches at Marvel, Barton and Trenton for seven years. Mr. Obenchain later moved to La Grange, and had charge of that church, and also of the one at Phillips Bayou, where he had before been located. He came to Haynes, in January, 1888, and has since resided here, being the pastor of the Baptist Church at this place, and also at Oak Grove. He was married on the second Sunday of June, 1862, to Miss Sarah A. Baker, a daughter of Henry Baker, of Botetourt County, Va. They became the parents of five children, three of whom are still living: Bettie (wife of W. H. Ward, of Marvel), Edward B. and Ella D. Mr. Obenchain is a Democrat in politics, and is a member of the Masonic order, and of the Knights of Honor. His life has been devoted to the service of his Master, and no man in the county is more highly respected or honored, and by the purity of his life, and the example he sets, he is well-worthy the confidence and respect which are placed in him.