My Genealogy Hound

Joseph T. Higginbotham. In giving a history of the worthy citizens of Polk County, Mo., Mr. Higginbotham deserves honor able mention, for, throughout his life, which has been spent in this county, his good name and honor have remained untarnished. He was born near where he now lives, July 25, 1855, and is the son of Thomas and Rachel Wilson (McKinney) Higginbotham, who were born on “Blue Grass” soil. In 1845 the father came to Polk County, Mo., and after being engaged in farming and stock raising for many years, retired from the active duties of life, and is now enjoying the fruits of a well-spent life. He served as county judge, at one time being elected by the Democratic party, of which he has been a member, and during the Civil War was captain of militia and participated in a number of engagements. His wife died in the fall of 1885, having been an earnest member of the Missionary Baptist Church. Their children are: Gideon H., J. J., Sarah E., wife of G. M. Botts; Reuben F., Mary Ann, wife of Jasper Vickery; W. W., Martin T., Robert M., who died at the age of sixteen years, and Joseph T. The latter was educated in his native county, and remained at home until twenty-one years of age, when he turned his attention to farming, which he has since continued with success, being now the owner of two well located and well improved farms, all of which is the result of industry and business ability. He also deals quite extensively in stock. At the age of twenty years he married Miss Mary Fullbright, who was born in Washington County, Ark., March 5, 1855, a daughter of Jason Fullbright. To them were born seven children, six of whom are living: Martin P., Minnie Lee, Thomas F., George W., Maggie O. and Nora E. Anna R. died when nine months old. Mr. Higginbotham is a Democrat in politics, and since thirteen years of age has been a member of the Missionary Baptist Church, of which his wife is also a member.