My Genealogy Hound

William B. Mooningham, a farmer and prominent citizen of the First District, was born in Smith County in 1844, and is the only child of John and Sarah W. (Rose) Mooningham. His father was of English descent and born in Smith County. He was a farmer and son of Matthew Mooningham. In 1843 John was married and in 1844 died, in the prime of life. W. B. Mooningham’s mother was born in Smith County in 1821. She is still living and a member of the Methodist Church, of which her husband was also a member. W. B. Mooningham was raised by his mother, his father dying when he was an infant. He received his education at common schools and at La Fayette. At the age of fifteen he moved to Macon County, but in five years returned to his native county, and in nine years he again moved to Macon County and located on the farm he now owns of 200 acres. December 23, 1869, he married Mary B., daughter of William and Martha Payne of Smith County. By this union three children have been born: John W., George W. and Louisa J. Mrs. Mooningham is a native of Smith County and is a devoted member of the Missionary Baptist Church. In politics Mr. Mooningham is an uncompromising Democrat; his first presidential vote was cast for Horatio Seymour. He is also a prominent member of La Fayette Lodge, No. 149, of the Masonic fraternity.