My Genealogy Hound

J. D. Block. To the thoughtful mind a contrast between the work of the bar of the present day, and a lawyer’s life journey fifty years ago in Arkansas, is something worthy of more than passing interest. The great task necessarily performed by those faithful practitioners of years gone by, did not combine to form a smooth path of gentle declivity leading to a beautiful temple of justice, elaborately arranged with all the comforts and belongings of the present. Neither is success in the legal profession now, won by lack of energy or persevering effort, in the line of this gifted calling. Mr. Block, one of the younger attorneys of Cross County, and its present prosecutor, has attained to a front rank as a member of the bar of the Second judicial district. Born in Poinsett County, Ark., he is the son of Maurice and Anna W. Block, representative people of this county, to whom mention is made elsewhere in this volume. A thorough Arkansan by bringing up, as well as by birth, he secured a good common school education, which only served to fit him more thoroughly for the study of law, whose practice he had decided to make his life vocation. After a careful course he was admitted to the bar and at once entered upon what was destined to be a remarkable experience, for one so young in years. From his majority the field of politics seemed to offer unusual attractions for him, and at an early age he was found active in local political movements throughout Cross County. In 1886 he was elected to the State legislature, and had the distinction of being the youngest member in that important body. His term of service was marked by such decided ability and fitness for the position, that he was subsequently honored by being made prosecuting attorney of his district, receiving the largest vote given any man on the ticket. Mr. Block has also held the office of county school examiner. His public life has already been one to which he may refer with credit. Brave, candid, truthful, with decided opinion, his moral and political convictions have been strong and unwavering. His manners stamp him a gentleman, and his career thus far promises to render him one of the most distinguished of Arkansas’ lawyers. Mr. Block if for no other reason would be prominently recognized on account of his connection with that well-known family of Cross County, whose name he bears.