My Genealogy Hound

Below is a family biography included in Biographical and Historical Memoirs of Lincoln County, Arkansas published by Goodspeed Publishing Company in 1890.  These biographies are valuable for genealogy research in discovering missing ancestors or filling in the details of a family tree. Family biographies often include far more information than can be found in a census record or obituary.  Details will vary with each biography but will often include the date and place of birth, parent names including mothers' maiden name, name of wife including maiden name, her parents' names, name of children (including spouses if married), former places of residence, occupation details, military service, church and social organization affiliations, and more.  There are often ancestry details included that cannot be found in any other type of genealogical record.

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William H. Atkins ranks among the successful, energetic, and highly respected farmers who have given to Lincoln County such an enviable reputation throughout the State of Arkansas. His birth took place in the State of South Carolina in 1841, being a son of Henry Atkins and his wife Esther, who was Miss Patterson previous to her marriage. The family moved to Arkansas in 1856, locating in what is now Lincoln County. The father died in 1877; the mother in 1888, and both were members of the Presbyterian Church and lively Christian people. To them were born eight children, all of whom lived to be grown, and three of whom are at present alive, viz.: William H., Mary F., and Martha. William was the fourth child, and attained his manhood in this State. He enlisted in the Confederate army in 1862, and was made colonel. Mr. Atkins was wounded and forced to return home, but during the latter part of the war was with Capt. Henry Burks, remaining with him until the close of the war, and surrendering at Little Rock. He married Miss Emma Smith, of Arkansas, daughter of John Smith, December 12, 1863. They were blessed with five children, viz.: Henry (who died in 1889), Bettie, Minnie G., Jessie, Addie May, and James B.

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This family biography is one of 44 biographies included in Biographical and Historical Memoirs of Lincoln County, Arkansas published in 1890.  For the complete description, click here: Lincoln County, Arkansas History, Genealogy, and Maps

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