My Genealogy Hound

John Watkins, one of the leading lawyers of Northwest Arkansas, was born in Carroll County on February 20, 1854, and is a son of John Watkins, Sr., a native of Alabama. The latter grew to manhood in his native State, and in 1835 came to Arkansas and located in Carroll County. Here he entered land and improved a farm, upon which he resided until his death on March 7, 1863. His wife died in October, 1861. John Watkins, Jr., grew to mature years in his native county. His education, which was begun in the common schools, was finished at Clarke’s Academy. Upon leaving school he engaged in the mercantile business at Carrollton, and sold goods for about four years, after which he began studying law. In 1875 he located in Boone County and it was in that county that he was first admitted to the bar, in 1878. After practicing his profession in Harrison, Boone County, for a short time, he returned to Carrollton and remained one year. Thence he removed to Huntsville, Madison County, where he practiced until 1880, when he came to Berryville. He has since had a large practice in Carroll and adjoining counties, and in the Federal courts. On December 23, 1884, he was united in marriage with Queen Walker, a daughter of Judge William Walker, of Carroll County. Mrs. Watkins was born, reared and educated in the county. She is a consistent Christian, and a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, South. Mr. and Mrs. Watkins have one daughter, Kate, who was born on September 6, 1886. Mr. Watkins is a Knight Templar, and a member of the I. O. O. F. Politically he was reared a Whig, but now endorses and supports the principles of the Democratic party.