My Genealogy Hound

SAMUEL J. DAWSON is descended from one of the earliest pioneer families of the county. He was born in this precinct on January 14, 1837, and is a son of Samuel and Maria (Masonfrith) Dawson. The father was born in Bourbon County, Ky., on August 14, 1800; his father, John Dawson, was born in Virginia, and was of English descent. The latter came to this county in 1817, with his son, and settled on the head waters of Casey Creek. There he died in about 1832; his wife in about 1841. Samuel Dawson grew to manhood in this county, and in 1827, he was married to Miss Masonfrith, who was a native of Bedford County, Va., and was born there on May 16, 1805. He inherited 200 acres from his father, and settled down about two miles northwest of Roaring Springs; he afterward increased the farm to 455 acres, and continued to reside there until his death, which occurred on June 28, 1863. For a short time he served as Constable of the county. He was identified with the Sons of Temperance. He was a man of fair education for his day and time, was well read on all subjects; was possessed of a fine memory, and was regarded as an authority by his neighbors on all subjects of dispute. The mother is still living on the old home farm. Samuel J. (subject) is the youngest of four living children: Susan E., widow of J. A. Miller; Rhoda M., John W. and Samuel J. The latter commenced life for himself when about twenty-five years of age, and soon after settled on his present farm. He now owns 175 acres; has 140 acres in cultivation. Mr. Dawson was married in Lafayette, Christian Co., on April 22, 1862, to Miss Margaret Clardy, a daughter of John H. and Ann Eliza (Watkins) Clardy. The father was born in Mecklenburg County, Va., but was reared principally in North Carolina; the mother was born in Warren County, N. C. Mrs. Dawson was born on October 24, 1843, and to her and husband have been born three living children: Marion, Blanche and Samuel. Mrs. Dawson is a member of the Christian Church. During the war Mr. Dawson was a strong Union man, but since that time he has been identified with the Democratic party.