CONTENT
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PREFACE ˃ Page 1
◦ THE COVER PHOTO ˃ Page 1
◦ A NOTE ON THE BOOK’S PHOTOS ˃ Page 1
◦ COMMENTS ˃ Page 1
◦ OUR LINEAGE ˃ Page 2
◦ JOE AND FANNIE ALEXANDER ˃ Page 2
◦ JOHN AND SALLIE ALEXANDER ˃ Page 2
◦ WILLIAM AND LILEY ALEXANDER ˃ Page 3
◦ JOHN AND POLLY ALEXANDER ˃ Page 4
◦ FRANCES ALEXANDER ˃ Page 4
◦ BOOK PRINTING INFORMATION ˃ Page 4
◦ UNITED STATES FEDERAL CENSUS ˃ Page 4
◦ HELPFUL INFORMATION ˃ Page 5
DARLINGTON AND FLORENCE AREA ALEXANDERS ˃ Page 6
OUR ANCESTORS - SETTLERS IN OLD SUMTER DISTRICT ˃ Page 70
HANCOCK FAMILY ˃ Page 90
◦ RUSS HANCOCK’S HANCOCKS - BACK TO THE FIFTEEN HUNDREDS ˃ Page 96
STEWART FAMILY ˃ Page 97
A COMPOSITE OF COMPANY A, 14TH REGIMENT ˃ Page 99
PERIODICALS OF THE LINEAGE REGION ˃ Page 105
UNCLE LEE’S STORYTELLING ˃ Page 106
THE COVER PHOTO
The cover photo was taken June 23, 1900. On the left was John W. Alexander, a Confederate veteran who
survived Gettysburg. To his left, a portion of his immediate family at his Lone Tree Farm just outside of Timmonsville in
then Darlington County. It was the day of son Henry’s marriage to Laura M. Raines.
Next to John was wife Sallie Stewart. The children are unidentified, but likely those of his son Charlie and his first
wife Olivia Jernigan. Standing in the back row, left to right, were Charlie, his sister Maggie, his brother Henry, and
Laura. The farm hand took advantage of the photo opportunity as well.
By viewing Charles Engram Charlie Alexander’s biography in the section Darlington and Florence Area Alexanders,
you may want to try guessing the identities of the children by estimating their ages, and comparing them with Charlie
and Olivia’s list of young’uns. In the same section, Maggie’s listed under Maggie Louise Alexander, and Henry’s under
Henry Lee Alexander.
A NOTE ON THE BOOK’S PHOTOS
Biographies contain photos that were available. I used some of my own snapshots from over the years, mostly
taken at reunions, or what I had collected from others in the family. If anyone cares to offer photos by way of the
Internet, please send them, preferably in the .jpg format (JPEG) to valmcginness@yahoo.com. I may add them to any
future revisions, and there probably will revisions until I’m no longer among the living. Corrections are welcomed, as
well.
COMMENTS
With the cost of paper, ink, mailing, etc., I no longer offer it in an actual printed book. It’s available online so
that you may print out your own. You may take advantage of a free download. The download offers one file with the
body of the information, and one for the book’s cover. It’s available in .docx and .pdf formats.
http://freepages.family.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~analexanderfamily.index
Over the years, the content has been whittled down to a smaller size which now includes mostly just the
Alexanders who hail from Florence and Darlington counties in South Carolina, yet follow the line from my first cousins’ 4great grandmother in North Carolina, and later in the area around Bishopville, to now.
I've been looking into the family’s history for decades as sort of a hobby, some call an obsession, and
unfortunately since then my first cousins and I have lost all of our blood Alexander parents. Now we are the elders in
our family, with the exception of the remaining wives of our Alexander parents. Hence, the First Cousins edition.
I hope this small effort makes the information on relations more relevant to the understanding of our
descendants. It’s not uncommon for people to get a little confused with the multiple use of the word great before a
name, i.e. great-great-great-great grandmother. Hopefully this approach will soften the confusion. For instance, a first
cousin’s great-great grandparents (or 4-great grandparents) would be their children’s great-great-great grandparents (or
3-great grandparents). It, of course, can still be a little confusing.
Our ancestors unknowingly transferred their deoxyribonucleic acid to us, their DNA. That’s the molecule that
encodes the genetic instructions used in the development and functioning of all known living organisms, including
Alexanders. It’s the stuff that allows people like television’s Maury Povich to tell us who the baby daddy is. It’s helpful
in many ways, and now with genealogy research. People are starting to use it to find their ancestors, but it costs
money.
It is hoped that with the little I know, it will be useful to coming generations with the hope that someone will
figure it out, and go back into our past a lot farther than I have. There’s a saying that some researchers use: Trying to
figure it out, so I’ll know who to blame.
OUR LINEAGE
Briefly, what I know about our family’s line is that a coastal North Carolina widow, Mrs. Frances Alexander,
maiden name and husband’s name unknown, is the first of our known line of Alexanders, who was first documented
back in 1786 for a land survey in what is now Bishopville, South Carolina. However, it was her only known son, John
Alexander who was the first true blood kin. John, Frances, and a few others traveled into what is now Bishopville during
the latter 1790s. The larger area they moved into was then known as Sumter District, and Bishopville was then known
as Salem. More on Frances and her immediate family may be found in the Our Ancestors – Settlers in old Sumter
District section.
JOE AND FANNIE ALEXANDER
First cousins, many of you older ones knew these two personally, and much of what’s included in this book
concerns their collective family. A farming family, Joe, Fannie, and their children totaled fourteen, and due to their age
span, they never all lived in the home at the same time. Fannie had them between May 26, 1906 and September 17,
1932, over twenty-six years. Joe was formally Joseph Kirkland Alexander, Sr., and Fannie was Frances Leitha Hancock
Alexander.
In order of age the children were:
1. Jessie Clifton Alexander, Sr. (1906-1973)
2. Joseph Lee Alexander (1908-1987)
3. Wilton Kenneth Alexander Jr. (1910-1986)
4. Belvin Ryan Bill Alexander (1913-1989)
5. Loren Vivian Alexander (1915-1954)
6. Willard Terry Alexander Sr. (1918-1996)
7. Gladys Myrtis Alexander (1921-1969)
8. William Elbert Alexander (1923-1924)
9. Barney Kirby B.K. Alexander (1925-1945)
10. Frances Mildred Alexander (1927-2014)
11. Marvin Esker Alexander (1929-1971)
12. Joseph Kirkland Joe Alexander Jr. (1932-2011)
More on Joe and Fannie is found in the section Darlington and Florence Area Alexanders.
JOHN AND SALLIE ALEXANDER
You first cousins who were born Alexanders, these are your paternal great-grandparents. Your grandfather Joe’s
parents were farmer John Alexander and the former Sallie Stewart of Darlington District, a daughter of Abel S. and Lydia
Kirkley Stewart. Although John and Sallie had a small family cemetery on their own land, they’re buried at Pine Grove
United Methodist Church, just outside of Timmonsville, but in Darlington County.
John and his family were initially active members of old Cypress Methodist Church in old Darlington District, now
Lee County, and then Pine Grove Methodist in Darlington County after Cypress was discontinued on the area Methodist
circuit due to fire damage and subsequent dismantling. The old Pine Grove was, and is, located in Darlington County.
On my last visit to the site, the old church was still standing, and being used by another organization next to, and visible
from, Interstate 20 in Darlington County. John was the Superintendent of the old Pine Grove’s Sunday school.
The newer Pine Grove Methodist Church was built at the site of Pine Grove Church’s burying ground, the old
Thornal Cemetery on South Carolina Highway 341 just outside of Timmonsville, but in Darlington County. In the 1960s,
it became Pine Grove United Methodist Church. By the way, many times throughout the book you’ll see the term United
Methodist Church replaced with UMC.
His parents originally lived in old Darlington District before moving to Henry County, Alabama where his uncle
James Alexander lived sometime after the 1840 census survey in Henry. The family, however moved back before the
survey was taken again in old Darlington District. John was born in Henry County in 1846, although everyone else in his
family was born in South Carolina. I suspect that the family returned to South Carolina due to mother Delilah’s failing
health, as she is believed to have died in 1851.
After the start of the Civil War, teenager John Wesley decided to join the Confederacy in Cartersville, near
Timmonsville, both then located in old Darlington District. John wasn’t old enough, but fibbed about his age, and was
accepted. After boot camp at Camp Johnson in what is now the Columbia area of South Carolina, Private Alexander
fought in many well-known battles with Carterville’s Company A, 14th Infantry Regiment, South Carolina Volunteers,
Confederate States of America. He fought and survived many well-known battles including the infamous Battle of
Gettysburg. Toward the end of the war he wound up in a Union prison in Elmira, New York that people referred to as
the Death Camp of the North. When the war ended, he was released to find his way home.
Eventually, he and Sallie married, and bought a farm just outside of Timmonsville. Formally, they were John
Wesley Alexander and Sarah A.M. Stewart Alexander.
Their known children were:
1. Mary A. Elizabeth Alexander (1867-1886)
2. Ella L. Alexander (1870-1902)
3. Charles Engram Charlie Alexander (1871-1949)
4. Henry Lee Alexander (1872-1948)
5. Mattie Viola Mollie Alexander (1874-1951)
6. John Luther Alexander, Sr. (1878-1955)
7. Maggie Louise Alexander (1879-1965)
8. Addie Olivia Alexander (1883-1911)
9. Joseph Kirkland Joe Alexander, Sr. (1885-1962)
More on John and Sallie may be found in the section Darlington and Florence Area Alexanders.
WILLIAM AND LILEY ALEXANDER
These are your great-great grandparents (2-great grandparents), the couple who started this Florence/Darlington
set of Alexanders. They were Rev. John William Reese Alexander, a Methodist local preacher, and the former Delilah
Alexandra Liley Kea (pronounced Key), the parents of your great grandfather (1-great grandfather), John Wesley
Alexander.
William Alexander was one younger of several children of John and Mary Polly Woodham Alexander. Wherever
he preached, churchgoers called him Uncle William. It’s not quite clear if he was ever ordained, although some have
said that he was, yet there’s not a lot of evidence to back that. My research mentor, the late Horace Fraser Rudisill,
Historian of the Darlington County Historical Commission once wrote a newspaper article stating that he was, but I’m not
so sure he still believed that years later.
In William’s earlier life he was listed on census surveys as an Overseer on his father’s plantation, and later on his
own land. Later, he relocated slightly south in old Darlington District, sort of drifting away from his parents’ family, yet
lived not too far away from them. He primarily lived in an area that now encompasses the communities of Lamar and
Cypress, and once lived near the road in front of what is now Lee State Park in Lee County. Back then, both locations
were in old Darlington District, yet today Lamar is in Darlington County, and the Cypress area is mostly in Lee County.
A local preacher was one who filled in at churches when their pastor was ill, or at churches that were between
regular preachers, that sort of thing. Mostly, those preachers stayed and preached within their respective Methodist
circuits, which seem to change a lot over the years.
William and first wife Liley were active members of old Cypress Methodist Church. His home church of Cypress
Methodist was discontinued on the circuit by the Methodist Conference, and the congregation was transferred to
Newman Swamp Methodist Church near Lamar, where William’s buried. As far as can be determined, Liley, short for
Delilah, died in 1851, and William later married Martha Anne E. Parnell. That union produced a daughter named
Gamewell Alexander. She married widower Alexander Sylkirk Sandy Fields. She and Sandy raised a sizeable family.
William and Delilah’s known children included:
1. Mary Alexander (About 1838-?)
2. Abner Alexander (About 1840-1863)
3. Elizabeth C. Lizzie Alexander (1843-1899)
4. John Wesley Alexander (1846-1934)
William and Anne’s only known child was:
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Frances Gamewell Alexander (1864-1926)
More on William, Delilah, and Anne are in his biography under John William Reese Alexander in the Our Ancestors
- Settlers in old Sumter District section.
JOHN AND POLLY ALEXANDER
Cousins, here are your great-great-great grandparents (3-great grandparents). John is the first known male of
this study. Born around 1774 in the old Dobbs County, North Carolina, he died in 1846 in old Darlington District in the
area of Stoke Bridge community in now Lee County outside of Bishopville. He married the former Mary Polly Woodham
who outlived him by a few years. They came from the area of coastal North Carolina that is now Lenoir County. Their
large family included Rev. John William Reese Alexander.
John and Polly’s known children included:
1. Abner M. Alexander (1796-1871)
2. Mary Alexander (1798-1868)
3. Anna Ann Alexander (About 1806-About 1870)
4. Mary Susannah Susan Alexander (1809-1847)
5. Jane Alexander (1810-1880)
6. James Irvin Alexander Sr. (1812-1892)
7. Aris Alexander (About 1815-Between 1870-1880)
8. John William Reese Alexander (1819-1899)
9. Cornelia Caroline Alexander (About 1823-1898)
10. Elizabeth J. Alexander (1828-1856)
More on John and Polly’s in the section Our Ancestors - Settlers in old Sumter District.
FRANCES ALEXANDER
Mrs. Alexander was married to, then widowed by an unknown, unnamed Alexander who was a possible casualty of the
Revolutionary War, making her the oldest in this particular line, known at this time. He what I call my brick wall, someone I
cannot get past, information-wise.
Frances’ only known children were:
1. John Alexander (About 1774-1846)
2. Mary Margaret Alexander
Frances is first documented by a land survey of her proposed land acquisition in 1786 in old Salem in Sumter County,
South Carolina, although at the time she was living in old Dobbs County, North Carolina in a part that is today Lenoir County.
She was also surveyed in North Carolina during the first United States Federal Census. Son John was the one responsible for
siring the first set of Alexander in our lineage, and starting the line that still exists.
Frances moved into Salem sometime after the 1790 census and the birth of her grandson, Abner M. Alexander in 1796 in
Sumter District, South Carolina, one of son John’s sons. She traveled to Salem with both of her children, her future daughterin-law’s aunt Mary Woodham Wiggins, and Mrs. Wiggins’ son Daniel. There may have been others in her traveling party. By
today’s standards, the journey was not that far.
Salem later became Bishopville, South Carolina, and Mrs. Alexander moved there onto 130 acres of land. Son John
moved onto 500 acres. Daughter Mary Margaret Alexander married Paris Hickman, a son of William Hickman, in South Carolina.
Mary and Paris later moved on to eastern Mississippi in the vicinity of the Choctaw Nation.
PRINTING NOTE
If you'd like to print this information, that's okay. You can even take it to an office supply place that copies and
prints, i.e. Office Depot or Office Max, and they'll do a plastic ring binder with a vinyl front and back cover, usually in the
available color of your choice, even clear, for around five dollars.
UNITED STATES FEDERAL CENSUS
The first United States Federal Census survey was in 1790. Back then it wasn’t as much of an information
gatherer, as a head count. Only the Head of household was identified by name, the area in which he or she lived, the
sex and race of those living in the household, and by their approximate age group, just nothing very specific.
Census takers weren't and still aren’t regular government employees, just people like you and me. They have
mostly been literate men and women who had a minimal amount of training. In the old days, many of the enumerators
wrote in overdone flowery cursive that was hard to read and decipher. Uppercase letters like I would look like a J, etc.
Those workers only had that job for a matter of weeks, and only every ten years. I'm sure they were good people, but
they made a ton of mistakes.
On that note, survey information was not always dependable. Often, enumerators would show up at a
residence to survey the household during the day, but the person who greeted them at the door would not always be
someone who knew all of the information that would make the survey correct, and it was not always a family member.
It may have been a cook, someone mentally incompetent, or just about anyone who wasn't working in the fields or had
a job outside of the home. In one survey I saw a woman listed as Emmer. I found out her name was actually Emma,
but the census taker usually took down the name as he or she understood it. All names in this report were intended to
be spelled the same as in the actual census record, and some may be misinterpreted or incorrect, not necessarily by me.
No census was taken in 1890, leaving out a lot of information of that period, meaning no census information for
twenty years, from 1880 until 1900. A lot of living and dying took place during that period.
HELPFUL INFORMATION
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The emphasis of this report is on the born Alexanders of this lineage, not necessarily whom an Alexander
married, yet in several cases more information was available on the spouse.
Individual’s names, as best known, are listed alphabetically by known first name. For instance, Luther
Alexander was actually John Luther Alexander, so he would be listed under John.
When trying to figure out a person’s parents, look to the right of the subject’s name.
A sizeable portion of the early South Carolina Alexanders who came from old Dobbs County in North Carolina,
are believed to be buried in the old destroyed Woodham Family Cemetery in the Stokes Bridge community of
Lee County since John Alexander’s wife was a Woodham. John and Mary Woodham Alexander lived in the
Stokes Bridge community later in life. There's no way to tell now how many and who were buried there. The
cemetery has been reportedly destroyed, and crops have been said to grow above the graves. After at least
seventy years of no burials, maintainance, etcetera, South Carolina law states that it's okay to plow over the
land. That was the law the last time I checked years ago. If they haven't changed that law, I hope they do.
People who are buried are not discarded garbage.
Spelling of names in this report are from various sources, and not all are necessarily and absolutely correct. In
the past, not everyone could effectively read and/or write, let alone spell perfectly. Even some in the same
section of the family didn’t know how some of the names were supposed to be spelled, and many of the names
within have been obtained from documents that may not have the proper spelling, as well. There are grave
markers that have incorrect spellings, dates, or other information because the inscriber was directed by a
person who wasn’t accurate.
When you see where someone died at the South Carolina State Hospital many years ago, it doesn’t necessarily
mean they were crazy. Some of their death certificates from the hospital have referred to some patients as
insane or senile. It was the ignorance of the times, but I believe that most of those in this story who died there
were those who suffered from Alzheimer’s disease, a form of dementia. They didn’t know about those
conditions back then. Some of those conditions took longtime care, so the State Hospitals were the place, and
being state operated, likely free of charge, definitely not like today.
Much like today, nicknames were popular in the old days, too. A few of the nicknames were different than
now. For instance, Mary was likely to be called Polly, Frances might be called Fannie, Sarah might be Sallie,
and Elizabeth had several options, i.e. Lizzie, Eliza, Liza, Beth, Betty, and Liz, and Martha became Mattie or
Mollie. An example of men’s nicknames was Henry being turned into Hank or Harry. If you see that an
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individual’s name is in quotations in their full name, it generally means they were commonly known by a
nickname.
Not known by this research means that my research may not have the answer, but it's possible that someone,
somewhere does have the answer.
If you see a number to the right of a person’s name, it indicates that there was more than one person with the
same known name. For instance, a (1) shows that this was the oldest known of the people with the same
name. This happens in a few cases.
Some biographies have more info than others. Many times finding information was easy, but many more times
it was not. Some people left more of a paper trail than others.
The addition of the popular genealogy term (nee?) within a female’s name indicates that her maiden name is
not known by this research. Italics are also used for emphasis, and other reasons.
If a source is not listed in the articles or obituaries, it's not known by this research.
The majority of our Alexanders were Methodists, and earlier on Methodist-Episcopal, so there are many
obituaries that were printed in the old periodical Southern Christian Advocate, giving the obituary writer, usually
a Minister, a chance to write about the deceased in a more flamboyant manner than usual, and after the fact.
The person had probably already been buried a while by the time the obituary got to Advocate subscribers. It
was usually written by ministers who worked the area where the subject of the obituary lived. The periodical
was published by a combined group of Methodist clergy in South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida. Most, if not all
of an Advocate collection can be found at the Methodist Archives at the Sandor-Teszler Library at Wofford
University in Spartanburg, South Carolina. Keep in mind that back in the old days, not every area had a
newspaper to spread the news of a death, especially at the time of the death.
Dates listed with only the year indicated are usually marked with the word About. If only the year is known,
many times it might just a guess or estimate.
DARLINGTON AND FLORENCE AREA ALEXANDERS
ABNER ALEXANDER – The elder of two sons of Rev. John William Reese Alexander and the former Delilah Alexandra Liley Kea
Born: About 1840 Darlington District, South Carolina
Died: Approximately at age 24. According to a Confederate muster roll dated December 4, 1863 Abner died from
wounds sustained about a month earlier in the Civil War, or War Between the States at the Battle of Lookout Mountain at
Chattanooga, Tennessee. The family found out about his death, but not necessarily officially. Communication wasn’t a
guaranteed thing during that war.
Marriage: Abner was not married, yet had a girlfriend at the time he went off to war
Burial: Unknown. As a note a few years ago, I wrote the Veterans Administration, and they had no record of his
burial. His brother John Wesley Alexander’s Reminiscence has John saying that Abner was killed at Lookout Mountain,
Tennessee. I've once saw a muster roll stating that he was indeed alive after that battle, and was in the hands of the
enemy. He did, however, die about a month later, likely taken off of the field of battle, and on to a Union hospital or
prison camp, before he perished, location unknown. One of the nastier things about the Civil War was that soldiers
would leave home to fight for the cause, and were never heard from again. Although Muster Rolls were a good thing,
they just weren’t filled out as often as they should have been, and without consistency. In my mind, word of Abner’s
demise was somehow relayed to the family by someone other than a Confederate official. Each soldier in Abner’s unit
was from the Darlington District, so that’s probably how the family heard about it. If a soldier didn’t die on the
battlefield, and did in a prison camp, there may not be a record of burial, only a listing on a grave as an Unknown.
Abner, the older of the two males born to his parents, was an infantry soldier in Company F, 8th Infantry
Regiment, South Carolina Volunteers, Confederate States of America, nicknamed the Darlington Grays, made up of men
in the more northern section of the old Darlington District. The larger group was called The Third or 3rd Battalion. He
went in as a Private. I’ve viewed paperwork on his unit that lists Abner as the only Alexander in Company F.
The soldiers were made up mostly of men from the Society Hill, Dovesville, Lydia, and Stokes Bridge areas of old
district.
Abner’s brother, John Wesley Alexander became a Confederate himself, joining a Cartersville unit when he was
not quite fifteen years old. His unit was Company A 14th Infantry Regiment. He was given the rank of Private. One
viewed muster roll I saw said he was twenty-three years old.
In 1932, while in his mid-80s, and with the help of his schoolteacher daughter Maggie, John dictated what was
labeled Reminiscence, mostly a remembrance of his experiences during the Civil War. In it he told of a chance meeting
with his big brother during the war: At the beginning of the war, my only brother, Abner Alexander, enlisted for service
for six months. He fought in the first Battle of Bull Run, Virginia. Six months he came home and found that I had
entered the army. He regretted, very much, that I had taken this step. I went away while he was at home. My brother
re-enlisted and went back to the same company. Just a few days before they went to Tennessee, I heard that my
brother's command was about a mile from me. I got permission to go to him, and this was the last time I ever saw
him. He came a part of the way back with me. We sat on a chestnut log and he told me that he felt like that we would
never see each other again, and told me, also, where I would find his trunk and other belongings. He was killed at
Lookout Mountain, Tennessee. I found his things, as he told me, his trunk and picture, but his girlfriend refused to part
with his jewelry.
In 1863, thousands of men were killed or injured during two separate battles at Lookout Mountain, Chattanooga,
Tennessee. The first battle was Chickamauga, fought September 19th and 20th. The South won that one, however the
Union forces regrouped and won the Battle of Lookout Mountain on November 24th. That was the battle that John
Wesley Alexander spoke about in his Reminiscence, saying that was where Abner was killed.
There is a huge National Park adjacent to and south of Chattanooga, along U.S. Highway 27, that according to
the National Park Service commemorates both battles. It draws hundreds of visitors each day.
Several researchers have made the mistake of confusing Abner with his much older uncle and namesake Rev.
Abner M. Alexander, b. About 1796, his father’s oldest sibling who lived not too far away in old Sumter District, and the
much younger Abner, b. About 1840, who lived in old Darlington District. Although you don’t hear of many people
named Abner now days, there were plenty back then.
During the early 1840s, previous to the war, Abner’s family moved into Henry County, Alabama after being
surveyed in the census for Darlington District, South Carolina, apparently to live closer to another uncle, James I.
Alexander, Sr. Abner’s mother Delilah may have become ill, citing the fact that the whole family was back in Darlington
District by the 1850 census, and Delilah reportedly died in 1851.
United States Federal Census Reference:
1850 - September 16th. Darlington District. This was the only survey I found that included Abner. He was not
listed in the 1860 enumeration, but would have been around twenty years of age at that time, and might have been
working somewhere away from his home. Back then young men would work on someone else’s farm, and live with
them as a boarder. The war had not yet commenced, and the 1860 was the first survey after his family’s move back to
Darlington District. The section of Alabama in which his family lived is now considered rural Newville, in Henry County
near Dale County. Newville is a small town located just off of U.S. Highway 431 between Eufaula and Headland.
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Wm Alexander, age 30 (head/overseer)
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Delilah Alexander, age 29 (wife)
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Mary Alexander, age 12 (daughter)
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Abner Alexander, age 10 (son)
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Elis C Alexander, age 7 (daughter)
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John W Alexander, age 4 (son)
ADDIE OLIVIA ALEXANDER (HILL) - Parents: John Wesley Alexander and the former Sarah A.M. Sallie Stewart
Born: August 31, 1883 old Darlington County, South Carolina
Died: February 8, 1911 at age 27
Marriage: John Lemuel Lem Hill
Born: September 8, 1874 South Carolina
Died: August 4, 1910 Darlington County at age 36
Burial: Both Byrd Cemetery, Timmonsville, Florence County
Their children:
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Luther Carlisle Hill b. April 7, 1906 Florence County d. October 25, 1935 High Hill, Darlington County at
29 years 6 months and 19 days of age, m. none known. Burial: October 27, 1935 Byrd Cemetery,
Timmonsville
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Martin Gary Hill b. August 3, 1908 (likely Timmonsville, Florence County) South Carolina d. May 30, 1977
Oklahoma at age 68, m. Before 1929 to Rosa Lee (nee?). (It may be that Lee was Rosa's surname, or
that her name may have been Rosalie). Burial: Gary at Rose Hill Cemetery, Ardmore, Carter County,
Oklahoma. Rosa’s name was not seen in a search of those buried at Rose Hill. The Hills had at least
one child: Ruth Hill, b. About 1929 who married a Mr. Spratt. In the 1930 census in Timmonsville, Gary
was listed as a farmer. According to Gary's World War II Army Enlistment Records, he enlisted in
Augusta, Georgia on November 19, 1945 into the U.S. Army Air Corps. He was living somewhere in
South Carolina at the time. The Term of Enlistment stated, Enlistment for Hawaiian Department. He
was a Technician 4th Grade Equivalent to Code 5: Sergeant. The papers listed him as married, and a
Cook in civilian life. It also stated that he had four years of high school.
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Sallie May Hill b. January 22, 1911 Florence County d. March 30, 1916 Ebenezer community, Florence
County at age 5 years 2 months and 8 days at her grandfather John Wesley Alexander’s home in
Ebenezer community outside of Timmonsville. Burial: March 30th, the day of her death, at Byrd
Cemetery
Lem’s parents:
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Calvin Hill b. February 12, 1831 South Carolina d. December 18, 1883 Timmonsville, old Darlington
County (now Florence County) at age 52. Burial: Amos Hill Cemetery, Timmonsville, described as a
destroyed cemetery. It is said that the tiny cemetery, for whatever reason, was destroyed around 1955.
It’s located at the edge of the town limit of Timmonsville at the end of South Kershaw Street on James
Street. At last visit, I saw no visible sign that it was a graveyard, just a small area overgrown with
weeds. I’ve talked to relatives who lived within a block of the old burying ground who said they never
knew it was a cemetery.

Sophronia Adeline DuBose b. June 6, 1844 Cypress Crossroads, Darlington District, South Carolina d.
July 6, 1919 Timmonsville at age 75. She was a daughter of Henry James DuBose and the former Jane
Kelley. Burial: Byrd Cemetery.
Lem's known siblings:

Clemuel Hodge Hill b. July 27, 1877 South Carolina d. May 23, 1922 Timmonsville at age 44, m. Viola
Skinner Hill b. October 28, 1879 Darlington d. November 22, 1969 Florence at age 90

Attie Sophronia Hill b. September 3, 1884 Timmonsville d. May 5, 1965 South Carolina at age 80 m.
Robert Pressley McMillan b. January 12, 1882 Darlington County d. May 27, 1942 Timmonsville at age
60. Burial: Both Byrd Cemetery
According to his 1910 United States Federal Census survey, Lemuel was a retail merchant.
Daughter Sallie May Hill died as the result of Extensive burns, 2nd and 3rd degree, and was buried March 30,
1916 at Byrd Cemetery. She lived for about 6 hours after being burned. Her grandfather, John Wesley Alexander was
the Informant of her death.
The children's aunt, Maggie Louise Alexander, raised the three orphans following their parents' death. Maggie
was engaged at the time, yet took in the children, and gave up her future marriage. I've been told that Addie and
Lemuel may have died during an elongated flu epidemic, and that Lem died about six months after Addie.
J.H. Kistler Funeral Home of Darlington handled Carlisle's arrangements. His uncle, John Luther Alexander, Sr.
(1), Luther, was the Informant of Carlisle's death, which was the result of a cerebral hemorrhage, a stroke,
rendering him paralyzed previous to his death. He was a farmer until 1925, and was single at the end of his life.
United States Federal Census Reference:
1910 - April 18th. Addie died in February of the following year. Pernice Register, Addie’s aunt, was in the house,
listed as a servant. All were born in South Carolina.

Lemuel J. Hill, age 35 (head)

Carlile L Hill, age 4 (son)

Martain G Hill, age 1 years 4 months (son)

Pernice Register, age 60 (servant) (Pernice Neesie Stewart Register, a sister of John W. Alexander’s
wife, the former Sallie Stewart)

Clara Stewart, age 15 (boarder) (a niece of Sallie Stewart Alexander)
1920 - January 5th and 6th. This botched survey was taken in what was then called Ebenezer, and now thought
of as rural Timmonsville. It was the location of John's Lone Tree Farm on Sallie Hill Road. In this day and time, most in
the area think of Ebenezer as part of the west end of Florence, around ten miles from Sallie Hill Road, near the Magnolia
Mall, and several restaurants and motels located on Business I-20, the eastern end of Interstate 20. The survey listed
John as married, although he was actually a widower, and daughter Maggie Louise Alexander was listed as his
wife. Also incorrect: the Hill boys were John's grandchildren, not his nephews. They were, however, Maggie's nephews,
orphaned sons of Addie Olivia Alexander Hill. Sallie had died in 1917.

John W Alexander, age 73 (head)

Maggie Alexander, age 38 (wife)

Carlisle Hill, age 13 (nephew)

Gary Hill, age 11 (nephew)
1930 - April 4th. Timmonsville.

John W Alexander, age 83 (head)

Maggie Alexander, age 45 (daughter)

Luther C Hill, age 24 (grandson)
ALBERT DEWEY ALEXANDER - Parents: Wilton Kenneth Alexander and the former Lillie Beatrice Bea Lloyd
Born: July 17, 1932 Effingham, Florence County, South Carolina
Died: At home in Effingham August 30, 2005 at age 73
Marriage: Shirley Ann Harper
Born: May 16, 1935
Died: August 24, 2002 at age 67
Burial: Elim Baptist Church, Effingham. Dewey was buried there September 2, 2005.
Dewey and Shirley had two sons:

Kenneth Dewey Kenny Alexander b. July 18, 1957 d. October 10, 1975 at age 18, burial was near his
parents at Elim Baptist Church. He was likely named after both his father and paternal grandfather.

Stanley Alexander
Shirley Ann’s parents:

W. Frelon Harper b. February 19, 1909 Florence County d. May 18, 1939 Coward, Florence County at
age 30

Victoria Sims b. April 15, 1904 Florence d. June 26, 1985 Florence County at age 81
Frelon was the second of three marriages of Victoria. Her first husband was Charlie Weaver, and her third
marriage was to Elias Kirby.
OBITUARY for Dewey from Morning News September 1, 2005
EFFINGHAM - A. Dewey Alexander, 73, of 136 Kinswood Circle died Tuesday, Aug. 30, 2005, at his residence.
Born in Effingham, Mr. Alexander was the son of the late Wilton Kenneth Alexander and Beatrice Lloyd Alexander
Ward. He was a retired supervisor from Adams Advertising Co. and a member of Southside Baptist Church. He served
his country in the U.S. Army during the Korean War.
Surviving are a son, William Stanley (Christie) Alexander, Sr. of Effingham; two brothers, Hoyt (Rosa Jean)
Alexander of Charleston and Jimmy (Gloria) Alexander of Florence; four sisters, Virginia (Harry Lee) Dennis and Evelyn
(Joe) McCutcheon, both of Effingham, Carolyn (Jennings) Welch of Florence and Lois (Curtis) Dewitt of Pamplico; and
two grandchildren, William Alexander, Jr. and Crystal Michelle Alexander, both of Effingham.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Shirley Ann Harper Alexander; and a son, Kenneth Dewey Alexander.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, Sept. 2, at Stoudenmire-Dowling Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will
follow in the Elim Baptist Church Cemetery, directed by Stoudenmire-Dowling Funeral Home. The family will receive
friends from 6 to 8 p.m. today at the funeral home and other times at the residence of Harry Lee and Virginia Dennis at
146 Kinswood Circle, Effingham, SC 29541.
ARNOLD CEIL ALEXANDER, SR. - Parents: John Luther Alexander, Sr. (1) and Nettie Hatchell
Born: February 14, 1912
Died: December 28, 1983 at age 71 Florence, Florence County, South Carolina
Marriage: 50 years to Maggie Mae Rogers. They were married June 20, 1932.
Born: May 22, 1917
Died: February 15, 2002 at age 84
Burial: Pine Grove United Methodist Church, Darlington County, South Carolina
Their children:

Grace Elizabeth Alexander b. About 1934

Eldridge Lee Alexander b. About April 1940

Arnold Ceil Alexander, Jr.

John Luther Alexander, Sr. (2) b. June 20, 1944 d. July 14, 2009 at age 65
Maggie’s parents:

William Everett Rogers b. November 23, 1885 d. September 15, 1929 at age 33

Eunice Vista Folsom b. December 31, 1882 d. March 11, 1960 at age 77. The couple is buried at
Newman Swamp Methodist Cemetery, Lamar.
Arnold and Maggie lived at Alexander’s Crossroads where Arnold’s parents ran a country store. That was on
South Carolina Highway 340, a road that goes from Timmonsville to Darlington, just yards away from Pine Grove United
Methodist Church and its cemetery where they, Arnold’s parents, and several other Alexanders are buried. I once saw a
map on the wall in the Timmonsville Post Office, denoting the intersection. The map’s designer missed the site of the
crossroads location, making it look like it was slightly north of Interstate 20, but it’s about a half mile or less south. The
crossroads is in Darlington County, yet is just outside of Timmonsville, located in Florence County, and serviced out of
the Timmonsville Post Office.
United States Federal Census Reference:
1940 - May 17th. Anderson (School District), Philadelphia, Darlington County. Arnold, Maggie, and Grace were
living there on April 1, 1935, as well.

Arnold Alexander, age 27 (head)

Maggie Alexander, age 22 (wife); Grace Alexander, age 6 (daughter)

Eldridge Alexander, age one month (son)
BARNEY KIRBY B.K. ALEXANDER - Parents: Joseph Kirkland Joe Alexander, Sr. and the former Frances Leitha Fannie Hancock
Born: May 12, 1925 Darlington County, South Carolina
Died: April 9, 1945 at age 19 in Belgium during World War II’s infamous Battle of the Bulge
Marriage: None
Burial: Lorraine American Cemetery and Memorial, Plot E Row 34 Grave 35, St. Avold, France. The cemetery is
near the border with Germany, and is the largest American World War II cemetery of American soldiers in Europe, with
graves numbering 10,489 American men and women. A majority of them died trying to cross the Moselle River, and
during the advance of crossing Lorraine, France into Germany in 1945. Ten others with the surname Alexander are
buried at the cemetery. Alphabetically, B.K. is first on the list.
The young man whose family called B.K. was a Private First Class (PFC) in the U.S. Army, 255th Regiment, 63rd
Infantry Division. His enlistment was at Fort Bragg, North Carolina on March 29, 1944. The registration says that he
was from Darlington. It also said that he weighed 100, but it also had his height as 00. Seems as though someone
didn’t fill out all of the information.
He fought and died in the infamous Battle of the Bulge, the largest land battle of World War II, in which 19,000
were killed, and 60,000 injured. It was extremely tough on the men, mostly due to the intense cold, lack of non-frozen
water, and a shortage of supplies. In scope and number of participants, no American engagement in history was more
costly or massive. Winston Churchill called it the greatest American battle of the war, and it’s considered to be the
breaking point in the war against Hitler for good reason, since Germany surrendered in May, just a few months
later. The battle was also known as the Ardennes Offensive and the Von Rundstedt Offensive, taking place December
16, 1944 through January 25, 1945. It was a major German offensive through the densely forested Ardennes Mountains
region of Wallonia in Belgium. B.K. earned, and posthumously was awarded the Purple Heart Medal, in fact, he’s listed
on the World War II Honor Roll.
Back home, the names of B.K. and three other local soldiers who died in World War II are inscribed on a brick
and cement monument gatepost at Philadelphia Southern Methodist Church in Darlington
County. One of those named is Olin Clyde Folsom, first husband of B.K.'s sister, Gladys, who
married Olin, and lost him in the South Pacific a very short time later. She posthumously
received his Purple Hear Medal and other awards in a ceremony at what is now the Florence
Regional Airport on U.S. Highway 301, Marion Highway, a military installation during the war.
Barney’s uncle, William Barney Ward, husband of Laura Belle Hancock Ward may
have been this Barney's namesake, as Laura and his mother were very close.
Most of the following letters, if not all, were furnished by B.K.’s niece Mary Frances
Alexander Jensen:
LETTER from B.K.’s Commander to his parents
Mrs. Fannie H. Alexander
Route 2
Timmonsville, South Carolina
My dear Mrs. Alexander:
Please accept my deepest and heartfelt sympathies in the loss of your son, Barney K. Alexander, 34966578,
Company B, 255th Infantry, who gave his life in battle on 9 April 1945 for his country. He was buried in the United
States Military Cemetery in Western Germany and services were conducted by the Protestant Chaplain, who officiated.
There is little one can do or say at such time to help ease the burden that is yours. While I did not know your
son personally, I do know that he enjoyed the high respect and admiration of the officers and men with whom he was
associated. The sacrifice he has made, his devotion to duty, and his courage will not be forgotten, and will serve to
inspire us to better efforts.
Sincerely yours,
James E. Hatcher
Lt. Col., Infantry
Commanding
LETTER from Theron J. Anderson, one of B.K.’s teachers at Lamar High School. Sent to B.K.’s parents
Dear Mr. and Mrs. Alexander,
I am writing to let you know that I feel very deeply for you in the loss of your son, 'B.K.'. As you know he was in
my classroom in Lamar for a number of months. In fact I had known him as a little boy but had not been with him for a
number of years. I don't know that I have ever told you just what I thought of B.K. I have remarked to my parents at
home something of my appreciation for him. I can say to you now that B.K. was one of the finest boys I have ever had
the privilege of teaching. He was courteous, quiet and orderly. He never did one thing in the classroom that made it
necessary for me to have to ask for his attention. He did a fair grade of work but you always had the feeling that he
knew more than his paper showed because he was always attentive. I know that such comments about him will not
bring him to you but I know it will mean something to you to know that one who knew him admired him. I know
nothing of his record as a soldier but I believe he was every inch a true American soldier who did well what he was
asked to do.
I wish to express my sincere sympathy for you and the other members of the family. You know that I can feel
for you in that I lost a very dear brother in the same horrible conflict. I wonder if there is anything we can do to atone
for what those boys have done for us. If in any way I can be of service to you please don't hesitate to call on me.
Your sincere friend
Theron J. Anderson
LETTER to brother Lee - Postmarked Camp Van Dorn, Mississippi, September 2, 1944
Sept. 1, 1944
Camp Van Dorn
Dear Lee,
Received your letter today and sure was glad to hear from you. I hope this finds you all well. As it leaves me
just fine. Or at least I think I'm O.K.
I sure would like to see you and the family now. It seems like ages. I'm figuring on being home very
shortly. This pen I got won't hardly write. It's one I borrowed. Someone borrowed one out of my locker p.m. So now I
haven't any. I hope the tobacco continues to sell good. As it has in the past. It sure does rain a lot out here.
For the last few days I have got soaking wet every afternoon. Tell Edith and Mary hello for me. I'll close now will
write more next time.
Love, B.K.
P.S. Got a letter from Belvin a few days ago.
LETTER - To Lee. Written about two and a half months before B.K.'s death
France
March 2, 1945
Dear Lee,
This leaves me fine and hope you are the same. How is Mary and Edith? Tell them hello for me. I haven't time
but to write a line or two but will try to pick a time to write more next time. I
guess you have your crop well under way by this time.
I'll close for now. Answer soon.
Love,
B.K.
ARTICLE about B.K. - Source unknown to this research
Killed in Action
Darlington. May 4 - Mr. and Mrs. J.K. Alexander, of the Philadelphia section of
Darlington County, have been notified by the War Department that their son,
Private B.K. Alexander, of the U.S. Army, had been killed in action somewhere in
Germany.
Private Alexander had been overseas for the past several months. He
entered the armed forces some time ago. He had served in France, Holland, Belgium and in Germany recently.
A NOTE - I found a document on the Internet labeled DEATH - National Jewish Welfare Board, Bureau of War Records,
Alphabetical Cards, dated September 25, 1945. It has sparse information, and listed B.K.’s mother, Fannie H. Alexander
as next of kin.
BELVIN RYAN BILL ALEXANDER - Parents: Joseph Kirkland Joe Alexander, Sr. and Frances Leitha Fannie Hancock
Born: April 15, 1913 Florence County, South Carolina
Died: February 3, 1989 at age 75 at home in Florence, Florence County, South Carolina
Marriage: March 17, 1946 to Jennie Lee Caddell, performed by Rev. John L. Jernigan
Born: April 11, 1915 Berkley County, South Carolina near Moncks Corner
Died: May 18, 2010 Florence, Florence County, South Carolina at age 95
Burial: Both Belvin and Jennie were entombed in the indoor section of the mausoleum at Florence Memorial
Gardens, Old Timmonsville Highway, Cashua Drive, Florence, Florence County,
South Carolina
Belvin and Jennie’s children:

Barbara Ann Bobbie Alexander

Patricia Pat Alexander
Jennie’s parents:

Sam Caddell

Nettie (nee?)
Belvin was manager of railroad-related Fruit Growers Express in
Florence for many years, and following the close of the Florence branch, a
company that iced trains, he finished his working years in Fort Myers, Florida
with the same corporation. Refrigerated train cars eventually phased out the
need for ice, and Belvin was getting around retirement age by that time, so he
returned to Florence to spend the rest of his
days. He was a member of the Breakfast
Optimist Club and the Amity Masonic Lodge
#340 in Florence, Brotherhood of Retired Railroad Men, and a member and Steward of St.
Paul United Methodist Church on West Palmetto Street in Florence.
Belvin's name is written in a family Bible of a brother and sister-in-law as Belvin
Rhyne Alexander, yet he always spelled it Ryan.
From World War II Army Enlistment Records: Belvin R. Alexander; Born - 1913;
Citizen; Native of South Carolina; Resident of South Carolina; (County or City) Florence;
Enlisted June 26, 1941 South Carolina at Fort Jackson, Columbia; Private; four years of
high school; Single, without dependents; 69 inches in height; and 215 pounds. Branch
Immaterial – Warrant Officers, USA.
TRIBUTE - Belvin’s daughter Patricia remembers…
Belvin Ryan Alexander was a special man. His family, his church, and his friends
were the most important things in his life.
Belvin loved to watch ball games on television and to fish - winter or summer. He was very active at his church,
St. Paul United Methodist Church. He visited shut-ins weekly and delivered Meals on Wheels to the elderly when he was
in his seventies. He didn't seem to realize the old people he was helping were often younger than him!
Belvin died on Friday, February 3, 1989 while working in his yard. It was a quick, peaceful death like his father
before him. Hundreds of people filled the church at his funeral. It was a tribute to a loving, funny, precious man who
liked just about everyone he met and accepted each person for the good he found in them. I don't believe he realized
he always saw the good in people because he brought out the best in them.
He loved his family. He and Jennie were married for 43 years before his death. He was the kind of father every
child should have. He had an abundance of patience and a great sense of humor. Even though he worked long, hard
hours at the ice plant, he always had time for his children and their friends. He spent hours in the yard surrounded by
neighborhood children. He had the Alexander knack for telling an outrageous tale with such a straight face you weren't
sure if he was teasing you or not. He drank ‘tea’ from dainty china teacups, had his fortune told by 5-year-old gypsies,
bought gallons of Kool-Aid from card-table stands, and drove carpools with a gentle, steady humor. He didn't endure
these activities, but enjoyed them.
Belvin and his brother Lee were especially close. Belvin lived with Lee and his wife, Edith some before he got
married. Over the years they shared many family activities and celebrations. They planted a garden together on Lee's
farm each summer. Others enjoyed being around Belvin and Lee because they enjoyed each other's company so much.
Belvin had two daughters and two granddaughters. He passed his love of growing things on to his older
grandchild, Susie. She frequently stayed with her grandparents on weekends and during summer vacations. Emily, his
younger grandchild, was especially lucky because she lived in the same town as Granddaddy. He had retired before she
was born so they were playmates. Granddaddy would be hanging out of the door waiting when he knew his buddy was
coming. They spent hours swinging in the backyard and playing I Spy.
Belvin Ryan Alexander was a special man.
United States Federal Census Reference:
1930 – April 23rd. Effingham, Florence County, South Carolina. Belvin was living in his mother's brother's home,
the home of his Uncle Press, Preston Brooks Press Hancock.

Press B Hancock, age 54 (head)

Eva Hancock, age 53 (wife)

Olivia Hancock, age 11 (daughter)

Belvin Alexander, age 17 (nephew)

Julia White, age 74 (mother)

Ham Kirby, age 58 (boarder)
1940 – July 15th. First St. John’s township, Berkeley, Berkeley County, South Carolina. Belvin was working for
the Worker’s Progress Administration (WPA), working in Camp #8 north of Charleston. The survey states that Belvin
was living in rural Horry County on April 1, 1935. The survey listed him among the enumerated ninety-nine WPA
workers.

Belvin R Alexander, age 26
Photo: Jennie and Belvin (in 2 photos). (L to R) Marvin Alexander, Val McGinness, Jake Ruther, and Belvin.
BERTHA MARIE ALEXANDER (FIELDS) - Parents: John Luther Alexander, Sr. (1) and the former Nettie Hatchell
death.
Born: August 27, 1903 South Carolina
Died: February 1, 1967 at age 64
Marriage: About 1921 to David Woodruff Fields
Born: March 6, 1897 Darlington County, South Carolina
Died: April 4, 1968 Hartsville, Darlington County at age 71. David was residing in Hartsville at the time of his
Burial: Westview Memorial Park Cemetery, Hartsville, Darlington County.
Marie and David's children:

Dorothy Fields b. February 22, 1922 South Carolina d. February 21, 1988 m1. Malcolm M. Atkinson b.
October 19, 1916 d. February 10, 1911 at age 54. Mr. Atkinson's grave marker states SOUTH
CAROLINA PFC 133 INF 34TH INF DIV WORLD WAR II m2. A Mr. Wilkes, burial was at Swift Creek
Baptist Church, Darlington County. Dorothy inscription: REST IN PEACE.

Jennings E. Fields b. December 11, 1923 South Carolina d. March 5, 1957 at age 33, Burial: Wesley
Chapel UMC, Lydia, Darlington County. Inscription: HE HATH DELIVERED MY SOUL IN PEACE, FROM
THE BATTLE THAT WAS AGAINST ME.

Marian E. Fields b. About 1928 South Carolina
David's parents:

Paron Fields b. October 15, 1868 Darlington County d. April 2, 1930 at age 61 Darlington, Darlington
County. Burial: Paron on April 3, 1930 at Wesley Chapel UMC, Lydia, Darlington County. Paron’s
inscription: IN LOVING MEMORY. According to Paron’s death certificate, his father was P.G. Fields.

Rosa Mae Barnes b. May 4, 1878 d. September 27, 1950 at age 72. Burial: Wesley Chapel UMC. Rosa
was buried there too, and her marker is also inscribed, but cannot read it from the provided photo due
to weeds.
Rosa Mae’s father was Thomas Nathaniel Barnes.
On June 5, 1918 at age 21, David signed his World War I draft registration at the Local Board in Darlington
County. His physical features were described as gray eyes, tall, slender, and dark brown hair. At the time he was living
in Lamar, Darlington County.
Miscellaneous information on Marie states that the completion of her education was the seventh grade.
United States Federal Census Reference:
1930 - April 2nd. Hartsville (School District), Darlington County, South Carolina.

David W Fields, age 33 (head)

Marie Fields, age 26 (wife)

Dorothy Fields, age 8 (daughter)

Marian Fields, age 3 (daughter)
1940 - April 10th. Epworth in Darlington County is the location on the transcription of the census for that year,
but the actual census records says Lydia in Darlington County. David and Marie are found living with David’s mother.

Rosa B Fields, age 61 (head)

David W Fields, age 43 (son)

Marie A Fields, age 35 (daughter in law)


Jennings E Fields, age 16 (grandson)
Marian E Fields, age 12 (granddaughter)
CARL HENRY ALEXANDER - Parents: Henry Lee Alexander and the former Laura M. Raines
Born: April 4, 1919 South Carolina
Died: February 17, 1961 Thomas Clinic, Ninety Six, Greenwood County, South Carolina at age 42
Marriage: December 22, 1947 Greenville, Greenville County, South Carolina to Dorothy Kathleen Dot Shealy
Born: January 12, 1926 Greenwood County
Died: May 13, 2011 Wesley Commons, Greenwood, at age 85
Burial: Elmwood Cemetery, Ninety-Six, Greenwood County
According to enlistment records, Carl joined the United States Army on May 23, 1941 at Fort Jackson, South
Carolina near Columbia. That put a halt to his baseball career until after the war, in 1946.
In the 1935 and 1938 City Directory for Greenville, Carl is listed a driver for Ballenger
Brothers. He lived at 223 Montgomery Avenue, same as his parents. Also living there was
his brother, Eugene.
At the time of Carl’s death he had been employed by a textile factory.
OBITUARY for Carl from Index-Journal Greenwood February 18, 1961
C.H. Alexander of Ninety Six Dies Suddenly
Ninety Six – Carl Henry Alexander, 42, of Ninety Six, died Friday at 5 p.m. of a
sudden illness.
He was a son of the late Henry Lee and Laura Raines Alexander. He attended
Cambridge Methodist Church and was a member of the excelsior Sunday School Class. He
was a World War II veteran and had played professional baseball for a number of years
before moving to Ninety Six in 1947, where he was an employee of the Ninety Six Plant of Greenwood Mills.
Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Dot Shealy Alexander; a daughter, Ann Alexander; a son, Douglas Alexander, all of
Ninety Six; a sister, Mrs. John Padgett of Greenville; and five brothers, Gene and John, both of New York; and Willie,
Leland and James Alexander, all of Greenville.
Funeral services will be held Sunday afternoon at 3 o’clock from Cambridge Methodist Church in Ninety Six with
the Rev. E.L. Johnson, the Rev. Morgan Kizer and the Rev. Robert James officiating. Interment will follow in Elmwood
Cemetery.
Active pallbearers will be Bim Snipes, Fred Dowis, Frank Edwards, Curtis Goldman, Jean Belue, Thomas Hipp, Cy
Bishop, and James Voiselle.
Honorary escorts will be T.B. Barden, Leroy Strawn, H.S. Buzhardt, Jake Hill, S.W. McCreight, J.W. Drummond,
Temple Lamar Jr. and Temple Lamar Sr., R.E. Wingard, Glenn Forrester, George McKinney, R.M. Yonce, Monty Moseley,
Morrall Turner, Chiles Calhoun, Wes Harter, Dr. O.L. Thomas, Dr. L.A. Schneider, C.O. Byars, Frank Ballenger, Woodrow
Reeder and Bruce Exell.
After 4:30 p.m. the body will be at the home on Wilson Road in Ninety Six. Blyth Funeral Home in charge.
OBITUARY for Dot - An after-the-funeral version
Dorothy Shealy “Dot” Alexander, 85, widow of Carl H. Alexander, died May 13, 2011 at Wesley Commons in
Greenwood. Born in Greenwood, she was a daughter of the late DeWitt T. and Annette Summer Shealy.
Mrs. Alexander was retired from Greenwood Mills, Ninety Six Plant, and was an Avon representative for more
than 42 years. She was a member of the St. Paul United Methodist Church.
Survivors include her daughter, Ann (Randy) Stephenson, Ninety Six, five grandchildren, Amanda Brock and John
Stephenson, both of Ninety Six, Carla Dean, Rutherfordton, North Carolina, Deidre Alexander, Charleston, and Drew
Wilson, Ninety Six; five great-grandchildren.
In addition to her husband and parents, she was predeceased by a brother, Earl Shealy.
Funeral services were conducted at the St. Paul United Methodist Church; Revs. Philip Chandler and Thomas
Cartledge officiated. Burial followed in Elmwood Cemetery. The Blyth Funeral Home and Crematory Services of
Greenwood assisted the family with the arrangement.
Pallbearers were Irby Shealy, Ronnie Shealy, Richard Shealy, Paul Johnson, Ned Johnson, Jimmy Norris, Stanley
Bell, and Colin Gunnells.
Honorary escorts were the staff of Wesley Commons and Hospice Care of the Piedmont, Friends of 96 Depot
along with Suzy Farrar, Leonard Bryan, Helen Belue, Frances Pratt, Ruby Turner, and Jamie Brown.
Memorials may be made to St. Paul United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 66, Ninety Six, South Carolina 29666, or
to Hospice Care of the Piedmont;, 408 W. Alexander Avenue, Greenwood, South Carolina, 29646.
OBITUARY for Dot - An alternative version by Blythe Funeral Home
DOT ALEXANDER
Dorothy Shealy “Dot” Alexander, 85, former resident of Wilson Bridge Road, widow of Carl H. Alexander, died
May 13, 2011 at Wesley Commons in Greenwood.
Born in Greenwood, January 12, 1926, she was a daughter of the late DeWitt T. and Annette Summer Shealy.
Mrs. Alexander was retired from Greenwood Mills, Ninety Six Plant, and was an Avon Represented for over 42 years. She
was a member of St. Paul United Methodist Church.
Surviving are a daughter, Ann Stephenson and husband Randy of Ninety Six and a son, Doug Alexander and
fiancé Darla of Ninety Six; five grandchildren, Amanda Brock and Jon Stephenson, both of Ninety Six, Carla Dean of
Rutherfordton, NC, Deidre Alexander of Charleston and Drew Wilson of Ninety Six; five great-grandchildren. She was
predeceased by a brother, Earl Shealy.
Funeral services will be conducted at 3:00 PM Monday at St. Paul United Methodist Church with Rev. Philip
Chandler and Rev. Thomas Cartledge officiating.
Burial will be in Elmwood Cemetery.
Pallbearers will be Irby Shealy, Ronnie Shealy, Richard Shealy, Paul Johnson, Ned Johnson, Jimmy Norris, Stanley
Bell and Colin Gunnells.
Honorary escort will be the staff of Wesley Commons and Hospice Care of the Piedmont, Friends of 96 Depot
along with Suzy Farrar, Leonard Bryan, Helen Belue, Frances Pratt, Ruby Turner and Jamie Brown.
The body is at Blyth Funeral Home and will be placed in the church at 2:00 PM Monday.
The family is at the home of her daughter and son-in-law, Ann and Randy Stephenson, 1706 Island Ford Road in
Ninety Six and will receive friends at the church from 2:00 to 3:00 Monday afternoon.
Memorials may be made to St. Paul United Methodist Church, PO Box 66, Ninety Six, SC 29666 or to Hospice Care
of the Piedmont, 408 W. Alexander Avenue, Greenwood, SC 29646.
Photo: Carl in an autographed pic. The copy sent to me by a descendant was extremely small, and enlarging it makes it go
way out of focus.
CHARLES ENGRAM CHARLIE ALEXANDER - Parents: John Wesley Alexander and the former Sarah A.M. Sallie Stewart
Born: September 29, 1871 Darlington County, South Carolina
Died: January 9, 1949 at home in the Oates, Darlington County at age 67
Marriage 1: About 1898 to Frances Olivia Jernigan
Born: May 1881
Died: August 1907 at about age 26 Florence County, South Carolina
Marriage 2: Ida Eula Jeffords of Lamar, Darlington County
Born: December 5, 1881 Darlington County
Died: At home July 15, 1949 in Oates at age 67 of heart problems caused by obesity.
Burial: Olivia and three of she and Charlie's children are buried at the vandalized and desecrated old family
cemetery on Lone Tree Farm near the waters of Lake Swamp (creek), Timmonsville, Florence County at the Darlington
County line on Sallie Hill Road. Charlie and his second wife Ida were buried at nearby Pine Grove United Methodist
Church, South Carolina Highway 340, Darlington County near Timmonsville. Inscription: BLESSED ARE THE DEAD
WHICH DIE IN THE LORD. Ida was buried on July 17, 1949.
Charlie and Olivia’s children:

Asa Junious Alexander

William Frank Alexander, Sr.

Mildred Olivia Alexander

unnamed infant
Charlie and Ida’s children:

Charles Ira Alexander

Daniel Allen Alexander

Eula Myrtle Alexander

Hamilton Earl Alexander

James Ervin Alexander

John Wesley Johnny Alexander (2)

Margaret Leola Alexander

Sally Louise Alexander

Woodrow Wilson Alexander
Within Charlie's two marriages, he lost five known children to death including an unnamed infant:

Charlie and Olivia's son Asa Junious Alexander b. December 14, 1898 South Carolina d. After the April
9th, 1910 United States Federal Census, and before the 1920 United States Federal Census of January
5th. Burial: Lone Tree Farm's cemetery

Charlie and Olivia's daughter Mildred Olivia Alexander. Burial: Lone Tree Farm

Charlie and Ida's daughter Eula Myrtle Alexander b. September 1, 1912 Ebenezer, Florence County d. 11
a.m. on January 29, 1916 at 3 years, 4 months, and 28 days of age, in Timmonsville. Burial: On the
same day she died, in an unmarked grave near her parents at Pine Grove United Methodist Church near
Timmonsville. She died from complications of second and third degree burns 24 days after her dress
caught fire.

Charlie and Ida's son John Wesley Johnny Alexander (2) b. December 9, 1916 Florence County d. May
28, 1918 Ebenezer at age one and a half years, of colitis that had onset thirty days previous to his
death. Burial in an unmarked grave near his parents at Pine Grove United Methodist Church. The
informant was his uncle, Joe Alexander, Sr.

Charlie and Ida's son Daniel Allen Alexander b. November 27, 1918 d. September 4, 1927 at age 8, not
long before his 9th birthday, Ebenezer, Florence County. His death certificate stated that he died from
Auto Intoxication (carbon monoxide poisoning?). The Informant of his death was his grandfather,
Luther Alexander, Sr. (1). Burial: September 5, 1927, the day after his death, at Pine Grove UMC in an
unmarked grave near his parents at the right rear area of the graveyard.
Ida's parents:

Daniel Madison Jeffords b. August 5, 1842 d. November 16, 1909 Darlington County at age 67

Margaret M. Hatchell b. August 20, 1845 Darlington County d. November 3, 1924 at age 79 High Hill,
Darlington County. Burial for both at Pine Grove UMC
Margaret was buried there one day following her death, November 4th.
Ida's grandparents:

Calvin W. Hatchell b. Darlington District, South Carolina d. Marion County, South Carolina

Martha E. Anderson b. Darlington District
Ida's great grandparents:

Morris Hatchell

Rebecca Allen
Ida’s brother, Bunyan Jeffords was living in Dovesville, Darlington County at the time of her obituary, and brother
Daniel Morgan Jeffords was living the in the Pine Grove community of Darlington County.
Ida was listed on her death certificate as a domestic.
OBITUARY for Charlie - Publication not known to this research.
DARLINGTON, January 11 – Charles E. Alexander, 77, planter died last night at his residence at Oates. He had
been in declining health for some time.
Funeral services will be held Tuesday afternoon at 3:30 o’clock at the Pine Grove Methodist Church, conducted by
the pastor, J.P. Raquemore, pastor of the Southern Methodist of Philadelphia. Nephews of the deceased will serve as
pallbearers, and grand-nieces will be in charge of the flowers.
Mr. Alexander was born in Darlington County. He was a member of the Methodist Church, and farmed
extensively.
He is survived by his widow, Mrs. Ida Jeffords Alexander; five sons, Frank Alexander, Earl Alexander, Woodrow
Alexander, Ira Alexander, all of Oates; and James Alexander of Hartsville; two daughters, Mrs. Howard Watford of Lamar
and Mrs. Harley Newsome of Hartsville; two brothers, Luther Alexander and Joe Alexander, both of Timmonsville; two
sisters, Miss Maggie Alexander and * Mrs. George Hatchell, both of Timmonsville. Six grandchildren survive also.
OBITUARY for Ida - Publication and date not known to this research.
DARLINGTON – Mrs. Charlie E. Alexander, 67, of the Oates section of Darlington County, died Friday night at
9:30 o’clock.
Funeral services will be held Sunday afternoon at 5 o’clock at the Pine Grove Methodist Church conducted by the
Reverend F.L. Frazier, assisted by the Reverend L.A. Houneycutt and the Reverend J.P. Raquemore. Interment will take
place in the ** Thornell Cemetery.
Mrs. Alexander was born in Darlington County and she had lived here all of her life. She made home with a son,
Woodrow Alexander.
Her husband died in January of this year.
Surviving are five sons, Frank Alexander, Earl Alexander, Woodrow Alexander, Ira Alexander all of Oates, James
Alexander of Hartsville; two daughters, Mrs. Howard Watford of Lamar, *** Mrs. H. Newson of Hartsville; two brothers,
Bunyan Jeffords of Dovesville, Morgan Jeffords of the Pine Grove community.
United States Federal Census Reference:
1900 - June 20th. Lone Tree Farm, High Hill, Darlington County. Counties were about to divide within a year or
so, and the newly formed Florence County would be taking over the area of his father and mother's farm, which at the
time was situated inside of Darlington County. The new jurisdictional border would put the farm just on the Florence
side of the new Florence-Darlington line on Timmonsville’s Sally Hill Road. Charlie, first wife Olivia, and son Asa Junious
lived there, as well as Charlie’s parents. This would be Olivia’s final census survey, later dying due to a difficult
childbirth, and the child, too. Family lore has it that she and the child were buried in the same coffin at the old forgotten
family cemetery on the farm near Lake Swamp creek, which has since been vandalized and desecrated more than once
over the years. Now, it’s difficult to access due to the old farm being subdivided into housing properties, and because of
the nearby waters of Lake Swamp. Later on, others in the family, including John Wesley Alexander himself chose to be
buried at Pine Grove Methodist Church, rather than the old cemetery on his land. That tells me that John must have had
second thoughts about continuing that location as a family burial ground.

Charles E Alexander, age 28 (head)

Frances O Alexander, age 19 (wife)

Asa J Alexander, age 1 (son)
1910 - April 19th. Lone Tree Farm, Ebenezer, Florence County. Charlie’s father and mother were now,
jurisdictionally, living in Florence County side of Lake Swamp creek, and the new Florence and Darlington County lines
had been established for several years. Charlie and his family still lived on Lone Tree Farm, but the farm was no longer
considered to be in High Hill community. It was now Ebenezer. There was already an established community within the
same county with the same name, and located on the west side of the city of Florence, about twelve or thirteen miles
away. Apparently, Ebenezer then stretched from Florence to the rural outskirts of Timmonsville. Ebenezer near Florence
had and still is home to Ebenezer Baptist Church, still active today. The Florence Ebenezer area has become an active
business area on Business Interstate 20, including a shopping mall, restaurants, motels, theaters, and more. Charlie’s
new wife, Ida was listed. She was the former Ida Eula Jeffords. Charlie and his children were still living on Lone Tree
Farm, except this time it was Ida who was the wife.

Charlie I Alexander, age 39 (head)

Ida M Alexander, age 28 (wife)

Acie J Alexander, age 13 (son)

William F Alexander, age 5 (son)

Hamlin C Alexander, age 11 months (son)
1920 - January 5th and 6th. Ebenezer, Florence County. Charlie, Ida, and their immediate family were still living
on Lone Tree Farm, as did a few of Charlie’s siblings over the years.

Charlie Alexander, age 49 (head)

Ida Alexander, age 38 (wife)

Frank Alexander, age 15 (son)

Earl Alexander, age 10 (son)

James Alexander, age 8 (son)

Woodrow Alexander, age 5 (son)

Allen Alexander, age 1½ (son)
1930 - April 4th. Lone Tree Farm, Timmonsville, Florence County.

Charlie E Alexander, age 60 (head)

Ida Alexander, age 48 (wife)

Earl Alexander, age 20 (son)

James I Alexander, age 19 (son)

Woodrow W Alexander, age 15 (son)

Ira Alexander, age 9 (son)

Leola Alexander, age 6 (daughter)

Sallie L Alexander, age 1 year 10 months (daughter)
1940 - April 17th. Oates, Darlington County. Oates is not very far from Timmonsville. John Wesley Alexander
died in 1934. As asked in all of the 1940 census surveys, Charlie's family was also living in the Oates residence on April
1st, 1935.

Charles E Alexander, age 67 (head)

Ida Alexander, age 57 (wife)

Frank Alexander, age 36 (son)

Woodrow Alexander, age 25 (son)

Ira Alexander, age 19 (son)





Leola Alexander, age 15 (daughter)
Sallie Alexander, age 11 (daughter)
Earl Alexander, age 30 (son)
Inez Alexander, age 25 (daughter in law)
Josephine Alexander, age 1 (granddaughter – possibly a daughter of Earl and Inez Alexander)
Footnotes: * Mattie Alexander Hatchell. ** Thornal Cemetery is correct. *** (spelling) Newsome is correct.
CHARLES IRA ALEXANDER - Parents: Charles Engram Charlie Alexander and the former Ida Eula
Jeffords
Born: December 20, 1920 Darlington County, South Carolina
Died: September 9, 1979 at age 58
Marriage: April 28, 1957 Darlington County to Allien U. Odom
Born: March 1, 1922
Died: At her home on Indian Branch Road near Darlington, Darlington County June
5, 2003 at age 81 following an illness
Burial: Both at Darlington Memory Gardens, Hartsville, Darlington County. Allien was
buried there on June 8, 2003, and Ira in 1979.
As of the 1940 United States Federal Census, the last one currently available, Ira
was a 19-year-old living with his parents.
Ira became a United States Army Corporal who served during World War II. His enlistment information is as
follows. Enlistment date: September 5, 1942 (age 21). Enlistment location: Fort Jackson, Columbia, South Carolina.
Enlistment rank: Private. Enlistment branch: Warrant Officers, USA. Term of enlistment: Enlistment for the duration of
the War or other emergency, plus six months, subject to the discretion of the President or otherwise according to law.
Other enlistment information was of a seemingly more personal nature. Education: four years of high school.
Civil occupation: unskilled occupations in manufacture of paper goods. Marital status: single, with dependents. Height:
67”, Weight: 170 lbs.
Ira’s photo in uniform comes from an unknown source publication named World War II Young American Patriots
in the section pertaining to Hartsville area military. Date not known. Information from the part on Ira is exactly as
printed. Cpl. U.S. Army 47th A. A. Artillery. Born Dec. 20, 1920. Entered service Sep. 18, 1942, Ft. McClellan, Ala.;
Charleston, S.C.; Camp Stewart, Ga.; San Francisco, Calif.; Guadalcanal; Emirau Island; Luzon, Leyte; Camp Gordon, Ga.
Awarded 4 BS, G Cond. M., VM, Amer., AP. Disch. Jan. 1, 1946. Attended Hartsville H.S. Protestant. Son of Mr. and
Mrs. C.E. Alexander, Rt. 2, Darlington, S.C.
OBITUARY for Allien - Morning News June 7, 2003
DARLINGTON - Allien U. Odom Alexander, 81, of Darlington died Thursday, June 5,
2003, at her home on Indian Branch Road after an illness.
Funeral services will be held on Sunday, June 8, 2003 at 3 PM in the Indian Branch
United Methodist Church conducted by Reverend Steve Zimmerman. Burial will follow in
Darlington Memory Gardens directed by Kistler-Hardee Funeral Home.
Mrs. Alexander was born in Darlington County on March 1, 1922. She was the
daughter of the late William Jacob Odom and Mildred Iseman Odom. Mrs. Alexander was
the widow of the late Charles Ira Alexander. She was a life member of the Indian Branch
United Methodist Church, where she was actively involved. Mrs. Alexander served as the
church historian, a member of the Ladies Aid Society, a long-standing choir member and
teacher of the Lottie McSwain Sunday School class for many years.
Mrs. Alexander is survived by her sister, Mae Belle Odom Hamilton of Baltimore, MD and by many nieces,
nephews and friends.
The family will receive friends at Kistler-Hardee Funeral Home on Saturday, June 7, 2003 from 6-8 PM.
Memorials may be made to McLeod Hospice, 555 Cheves Street, Florence, SC, 29501.
Photos: Ira Alexander in uniform. Allien Alexander.
EDNA D. ALEXANDER - Parents: Henry Lee Alexander and Laura M. Raines
Born: July 14, 1912 Greenville, South Carolina
Died: September 17, 1981 Greenville, Greenville County at age 69
Marriage: John H. Padgett of Spartanburg, South Carolina, and by 1920 living in Greenville
Born: August 17, 1908
Died: April 1, 1993 Greenville at age 84
Burial: Woodlawn Memorial Park, Greenville, Section BB
Known children:

John R. Padgett

Lewis Barron Padgett, b. November 20, 1932 Greenville d. January 25, 2010 Taylors, Greenville at age
67

Billy L. Padgett

Larry L. Padgett
John’s parents:

Benjamin Bay Padgett

Harriett Hattie (nee?)
As a note, buried at Woodlawn Memorial Park is a Harriet Mathis Padgett who was widowed by Rev. Berryman L.
Padgett. Rev. Padgett was buried in a different cemetery. Based on scant information for the above stated, these
possibly may be John H. Padgett’s parents. His name was similar to Benjamin. According to his death certificate, Rev.
Padgett was born in North Carolina in 1871 (his grave marker says 1972), and Harriet was born in Union County, South
Carolina during 1872. Census records for John H. Padgett state that his parents were both born in South Carolina. This
research is just guessing.
At the time of brother Carl Alexander’s obituary, February 18, 1961, Edna and John were living in Greenville.
United States Federal Census Reference:
1930 - April 14th. Greenville. Living very near, or next door to Edna’s parents, this was the Padgett's first survey
as a married couple. John was 20 when they married, and Edna was 16. He was a truck driver for a coal yard, and
Edna was not yet employed.

John H Padgett, age 21 (head)

Edna D Padgett, age 17 (wife)
1940 - April 2nd. 11 Montgomery Avenue, Greenville. The survey indicated the family, with the exception a
lodger, Mrs. Elizabeth M. Ray, was living in the same residence on April 1, 1935. Oddly enough, although I haven't seen
this before, the census taker put everyone on the census page with their middle initial first (Padgett H. John). All in the
household were born in South Carolina except Ms. Ray, who was born in North Carolina. Edna and John each had an
eighth grade education. John worked as a truck driver for a private coal yard and coal dealer. Elizabeth Ray was a
seamstress for the Workers Progress Administration (WPA).

John H Padgett, age 31 (head)

Edna D Padgett, age 27 (wife)

John R Padgett, age 10 (son)

Lewis B Padgett, age 7 (son)

Billy L Padgett, age 5 (son)

Larry L Padgett, age 3 (son)

Elizabeth M Ray, age 53 (lodger)
EDNA RUTH ALEXANDER (SPRING) - Parents: Jessie Clifton Alexander, Sr. and the former Mavie Edna Jolly
Born: December 28, 1932
Died: February 19, 1996 at age 63 South Carolina
Marriage: Yancy Duewell Spring of Florence, Florence County, South Carolina
Burial: Florence Memorial Gardens, Cashua Drive, Old Timmonsville Highway, Florence
One of Ruth and Duewell’s children is deceased: Dennie Ravenel Spring d. 1988
OBITUARY for Duewell from Morning News April 30, 2005
FLORENCE - Yancy Duewell Spring, 75, died Thursday, April 28, 2005, at his residence after an illness.
Funeral services will be at 3 p.m. Sunday, May 1, in Waters-Powell Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will follow in
Florence Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. today at the funeral home.
He was born in Florence County, a son of the late George Dewey and Lizzie Springs Spring. He was the owner of
Spring Used Parts in Florence.
Mr. Spring was predeceased by his wife, Ruth Alexander Spring; a son, Dennis Ravenel Spring; and a brother,
Arnette Spring.
Survivors include a daughter, Mrs. Darlene (Jim) Winborne of Florence; eight sisters, Burnette McKenzie and Annette
(Butch) Cusaac, both of Florence, Adlevia (Jerry) Strawn of Effingham, Suedean (Bobby) Hanna of Sumter, Julia (Timmons)
Floyd and Margie (Alva) Lee, both of Lake City, Lib (Neal) Yonas of Coward and Jannette (Lynn) Coward of Belmont, N.C.; two
brothers, Donald (Donna) Spring of Florence and George (Mitzi) Spring of Lake City; and two grandchildren, Lauren Elizabeth
Spring and Charles Joseph “Joey” Williamson.
ELIZABETH C. LIZZIE ALEXANDER (PARNELL) - Parents: Rev. John William Reese Alexander and the former Delilah Alexandra Liley Kea
Born: November 5, 1843 Darlington District, South Carolina
Died: November 13, 1899 at age 61
Marriage: 1861 Darlington County, South Carolina to Robert Nelson Parnell
Born: January 3, 1841 Darlington District
Died: South Carolina State Hospital, Richland County April 3, 1917 at age 75. In those days, dementia, including
Alzheimer’s was called senility, and the only type of hospital to be able to care for those afflicted, and to foot the bill,
were state-run hospitals. His grave marker states he died on April 2nd, but other information on that grave marker is
incorrect, as well. The death itself was attributed to heart problems. He had been hospitalized for around five months.
Burial: Both and son Raymond at Newman Swamp Methodist Cemetery near Lamar, Darlington County, sharing a
single newer-looking grave marker with the three names inscribed. Several of their children and relatives are buried
near there, as well. Lizzie's date of death on the stone is incorrect. Robert was listed as a widower in the 1900 United
States Federal Census, making Lizzie’s death previous to that census, yet her tombstone inscription states 1904. The
marker was probably placed there to either mark their burials, or replace an old one.
As a note on Newman Swamp Methodist Cemetery, there are now two Methodist churches on the property, next
to each other, with one cemetery located behind the two. One church, on the left, is the older Newman Swamp
Methodist, established 1816, that is now Newman Swamp United Methodist Church, and the other one is a Methodist
church, although not a United Methodist. The congregation of the newer church separated years ago when those who
didn’t want to follow United Methodist doctrines voted which way they wanted the church to go.
Both churches may share the same cemetery, but I don’t know that for sure. That’s why, when mentioning the
cemetery, the name of the church is usually not mentioned, just referred to as Newman Swamp Cemetery. In addition,
it’s also a very old cemetery. The older church has reportedly been housed in three different buildings over the years,
the earliest being in a location somewhere down the road toward Lamar, once known as Windham Church.
The late Historian of the Darlington County Historical Commission, Horace Fraser Rudisill, once told me that in
theory, he suspected that there were many more bodies buried in that cemetery than are represented in records, or
grave markers. He based that theory on the fact that since the church was established in 1816, and because many
people attended the church over the years, there seemingly would have been many more people buried there than
apparent since its beginning. He even went as far as to say that he theorized that people might even have been buried
on top of other’s graves, given the fact that really old graves contained wooden caskets and were marked by wooden
markers, both which could have easily deteriorated over the years. He went on to say that the cemetery was much too
small for the number of parishioners who have attended there since its inception. Who knows?
It’s possible that many burials were made at the old Cypress Cemetery, not too far away in Lee County. Newman
Swamp gained Cypress’ congregation when the Florence Circuit moved them after Cypress Church partially burned and
was dismantled. The congregation was first moved to Lamar Methodist Church, yet that was short lived. In its day,
Newman Swamp Methodist was a very active and important church on the Methodist and Methodist Episcopal circuit.
Elizabeth and Robert's offspring:

Joshua Hamer Parnell b. 1868 d. September 16, 1946 m1. Ann Elizabeth Parnell (Parnell was her maiden
name, as well) b. October 29, 1872 d. May 18, 1925 at age 52 m2. Ava M. Plummer Mims (Ava’s maiden
name was Plummer and Mims was the surname of her first husband, Tallie Bismark Mims) b. February
24, 1885 d. August 25, 1952 at age 67. Burial: Joshua Hamer and Ann Elizabeth at Newman Swamp
Methodist Cemetery, and Ava at Lamar Memorial Cemetery, Lamar, Darlington County, beside Tallie.

Paul Alexander Parnell b. September 20, 1873 Darlington County d. August 21, 1924 at age 50 m1.
Annie P. Turner b. June 2, 1870 d. December 21, 1908 at age 38 m2. Alice Knotts b. March 23, 1875 d.
November 6, 1926 at age 51. Burial: Paul and both spouses were buried at Newman Swamp Methodist
Cemetery. Paul's September 12, 1918 World War I draft registration card states that he was of medium
height and build, blue eyes, and dark hair. He was a self-employed 44-year-old farmer who lived at
Route 3, Lamar, Darlington County. He personally signed the card

Alonzo Homer Parnell b. February 21, 1878 Darlington County d. December 20, 1947 at age 69 m.
Fannie Josie Saverance b. November 4, 1878 d. September 1 1934 at age 55. Burial: Both at Newman
Swamp Methodist Cemetery. The two have separate markers, and Fannie’s is laying on the ground, face
up. Inscriptions: Alonzo At Rest and Fannie A tender mother and a faithful friend

Raymond Parnell b. October 1, 1880 d. February 23, 1904 at age 23. He is not known by this research
to have ever married. Burial: Next to his parents, and included on their marker at Newman Swamp
Methodist Cemetery. I don’t know in the case of Raymond, but his mother’s death date is incorrect as
evidenced by census records. The marker looks too new to be an original.

Cora Dale Parnell b. June 22, 1886 Darlington County d. February 13, 1967 Florence, Florence County,
South Carolina of a lengthy illness (obituary) at age 80 m. William Norward Bell b. February 1, 1879
d. July 28, 1926 at age 47. Norward registered for World War I’s draft Sept. 12, 1918, described as
having brown eyes, black hair, medium build and height, and living at Route 5, Bishopville. He made an
X for his signature. A son of Joseph Joshua Bell and the former Fannie E. Fields, Mr. Bell was a farmer.
Burial: Both at Newman Swamp Methodist Cemetery

John William Parnell (likely named after his grandfather, Rev. John William Reese Alexander) b. February
6, 1866 Darlington District (very soon to become Darlington County) d. May 2, 1939 Darlington County
at age 73 m. Mary Jane Rogers b. September 25, 1875 d. October 21, 1944. Burial: Both at Newman
Swamp Methodist Cemetery. Mr. Alexander was buried May 3rd.
Robert N. Parnell's parents:

Israel C. Parnell, a farmer b. December 28, 1805 Darlington District d. August 24, 1874 Darlington
County at age 69 m. April 19, 1827 at age 21 Darlington, Darlington District. According to a Find A
Grave dot com Memorial, he is buried at Newman Swamp Methodist Cemetery, Lamar, Darlington
County. Up to now I've seen no evidence of a marked grave. It's possible that he may have been
buried, Fannie too, in the unmarked Parnell Cemetery, described in this biography, and located near
Interstate 20.

Frances Scott Fannie Saverance b. February 11, 1811 d. June 24, 1889 at age 78. She is also reportedly
buried at Newman Swamp Methodist Cemetery, but I believe that’s only based on assumption by the
aforementioned Find A Grave Dot Com contributor. Contributors are often make assumptions that are
not based on documentation.
Mr. Parnell was previously married to Mary McLendon b. About 1842 d. By 1865.
Israel and Fannie's other known children:

James Ellis Parnell

Henry Elliot Parnell

Joshua Toomer Parnell

Thomas Asbury Parnell

Paul Alexander Parnell

Susannah Sarah Parnell

Louisa Jane Parnell

Hannah Simmons Parnell

Margaret Helen Parnell
Robert's paternal grandparents:

William Parnell, Sr. (spelled Parnal in his Last Will and Testament) b. March 31, 1783 d. April 16, 1860 at
age 77 with burial at the Parnell Family Cemetery, Moccasin Lane near Lamar, and within view of
Interstate 20. Reportedly, it's the only marked grave in that graveyard. There’s no telling how many
people are actually buried there.

Martha Cooley b. About 1784 d. February 25, 1884 Darlington, Darlington District, a daughter of John
Anderson Cooley and Rachel Kinchen. Martha’s likely buried at the same graveyard in which Mr. Parnell
is buried.
Robert's paternal great grandparents:

James Parnell, Sr.

Sarah Parnell
Because Lizzie's father was Rev. William Alexander, and because she married Robert Nelson Parnell, the brother
of William's second wife, Anne Parnell, it conjured a combination of relationships within that group of folks, somewhat
similar to that old country novelty tune, I’m My Own Grandpa.
United States Federal Census Reference:
1860 - On the last day or two of June (exact date not given on census survey). Darlington Post Office, Darlington
District, South Carolina. Robert was listed in the survey as an Overseer, maybe for his father's slaves.

Robert Parnell, age 20 (head)

Eliz Parnell, age 15 (wife)
1880 - June 19th. Lisbon, Darlington County.

Robt N Parnell, age 37 (head)

Elizabeth C Parnell, age 31 (wife)

John A Parnell, age 14 (son)

Joshua Parnell, age 12 (son)

Paul Parnell, age 6 (son)

Alonzo Parnell, age 2 (son)
1900 - June 29th. Lamar, Darlington County. Elizabeth's grave marker states that she died in 1904, yet this
survey referred to Mr. Parnell as widowed. He and Lizzie had been married 40 years. Robert was listed as a farmer.

Robert N Parnell, age 59 (head)

Raymond Parnell, age 19 (son)

Cora Parnell, age 13 (daughter)
ELLA L. ALEXANDER (HATCHELL) - Parents: John Wesley Alexander and the former Sarah A.M. Sallie Stewart
Born: March 18, 1870 Darlington County, South Carolina
Died: July 6, 1902 at age 32 Darlington County
Marriage: June 28, 1896 in Darlington County to John James Hatchell
Born: May 1847 South Carolina
Burial: I’ve found no account of Ella's burial by this research, yet I suspect that she was buried on her father’s
farm just outside of Timmonsville. She died relatively young at age 32, and there was a cemetery on her parents’
property near Lake Swamp. I’m sure John and Sallie realized that Mr. Hatchell was young enough to marry again, and
move on in life, so that would have been a valid solution to her interment there. If my guess is correct she would have
been one of the first to be buried there, if not the first. Not many people know about the somewhat hidden, vandalized,
and desecrated cemetery, located not too far away from the modern-day horse barn on the old property that belongs to
a homeowner there.
James Hatchell had at least three children by an earlier wife who became Ella's stepchildren. Their birth months and
years in this listing are taken from the 1900 United States Federal Census.
Side notes:
Records from the old Cypress Methodist Episcopal Church, South, originally called Cypress Meeting House,
believed to have been a church before 1813, indicate that Ella was baptized August 22, 1875 at the church, once located
in Darlington District, then Darlington County, and finally what is now, Lee County. The church didn’t change its actual
location, just jurisdictional boundaries. The church was, however, the second church building, now gone, and second
cemetery location that’s now at Cypress Crossroads. The first one was located not too far away near Lydia and U.S.
Highway 15, and its interments were professionally moved by a funeral home to the second cemetery which is still used,
maintained, and fenced. The second church had been discontinued as a church for its low attendance in November of
1928, then it partially burned, for whatever reason, and in late 1929 or early 1930 the building was dismantled, cleared,
and the congregation was moved by the Florence Circuit to Newman Swamp Methodist, not far away, in Darlington
County near Lamar.
In addition to Ella, her father and others in the family were members of Cypress, including her beloved
grandfather, Rev. John William Reese Alexander, and her grandmother, Delilah Alexandra Liley Kea. I believe that it was
Ella who wrote a dramatic grieving obituary for her preacher grandfather who died in 1899. If not, it was certainly
written by an ill grandchild.
Family lore has it that Ella was somewhat of a hypochondriac. In her defense, she was ill for several years, and
died fairly young, just six years after her marriage. A family story goes that Ella would feel too sick during the week
when it was time to do chores, but when Sunday came around, the day for going to church, she was feeling wonderful.
It reminds one of the old story of the hypochondriac who was buried with the epitaph on his grave marker, See?
United States Federal Census Reference:
1900 - June 27th. Philadelphia, Darlington County. Because she died relatively young, this is the only census that
has Ella living outside of her father’s home. There was no survey in 1890. By now, Ella had been married 4 years,
making the younger Hatchells in this survey her step-children. Keep in mind that in all census surveys, listed
relationships are based only on the Head of household.

John J Hatchell, age 53 (head)

Elle L Hatchell, age 30 (wife)

Leila Hatchell, age 17 (daughter)

Trapler Hatchell, age 15 (son)

Ila Hatchell, age 8 (daughter)
EUGENE E. GENE ALEXANDER - Parents: Henry Lee Alexander and the former Laura M. Raines
Born: About 1909
Died: About 1973 at about age 64
Burial: Reportedly New Jersey
According to his brother Carl’s obituary in 1961, Gene was living in New York.
He is found in the Greenville, South Carolina City Directory of 1924 as a driver for Ballenger Brothers. His
residence was 223 Montgomery Avenue. Brother Carl worked for the same people, and lived with his parents at that
address in listings of 1935 and 1938.
FRANCES GAMEWELL ALEXANDER (FIELDS) - Parents: Rev. John William Reese Alexander and second wife, the former Martha
Anne E. Parnell
Born: February 17, 1864 Darlington District, South Carolina
Died: Heart problems March 5, 1926 at age 62 in the Mount Pleasant section of Lee County, South Carolina. She
had been treated for her malady for the previous five years. The death informant was son William Henry Fields.
Marriage: About 1880 to Alexander Sylkirk Sandy Fields, a widower at age 24. A census record says 1876, but
Gamewell would have only been about 12 years old when she married him, and his first wife didn’t die until 1879.
Sandy’s name has also been seen as Silkirk, but that may have just been a misspelling.
Born: September 20, 1856 Darlington District
Died: March 20, 1914 at age 58 Darlington County, South Carolina
Burial: Both at Newman Swamp Methodist Cemetery, Lamar, Darlington County. Their
Woodmen of the World grave marker inscription: Forever with the Lord.
Sandy and Gamewell's children:

Annie Fields b. About 1882

Mary Fields b. About 1884

Ida Gertrude Fields b. November 12, 1885 d. November 9, 1949 Florence, Florence
County at age 63 m. Columbus O. Parnell b. July 15, 1877 d. September 20, 1943
at age 66. Burial: Both at Newman Swamp Methodist Cemetery

William Henry Fields b. November, 9, 1887 Lamar, Darlington County d.
September 1, 1965 Lydia community, Darlington County at age 77 m. December
25, 1913 to Meta Leila Jeffords b. May 31, 1892 d. May 27, 1989 at age 96. Burial: Both at Mount Elon
Baptist Church, Hartsville, Darlington County. Inscription: THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD.

Ephraim Duncan Fields b. December 9, 1889 South Carolina d. March 28, 1974 Wadesboro, Anson
County, North Carolina at age 84 m. Susan Margaret Hay b. September 21, 1884 d. January 15, 1943 at
age 58. Burial: Both at Society Hill Presbyterian Church, Society Hill, Darlington County
 Sidney Webber Fields, a Society Hill Magistrate, b. March 28, 1892 old Darlington County d.
Society Hill on March 20, 1968 at age 75 m1. Katherine Kate Griggs b. September 17, 1891 d.
July 15, 1944 at age 46 m2. 1955 to Mrs. Catherine Ruff. Burial: Sidney at Society Hill
Presbyterian Church, and Kate at Welsh Neck Baptist Church, Society Hill. Catherine may have
been buried with her first husband.
 Lewis Hamer Fields b. May 23, 1894 d. October 31, 1959 at age 65 m. Bertha Bell b.
October 4, 1906 d. February 10, 1998 at age 91. Burial: Both at Lamar Memorial Cemetery,
Lamar. Although they share a double marker, Lewis’ military marker is inscribed: SOUTH
CAROLINA, PVT CO F, 166 INFANTRY, WORLD WAR I (with birth/death dates)
 John Newton Fields b. August 18, 1896 South Carolina
 Roxie Fields (a child at her death) b. September 27, 1897 d. June 30, 1898 at age 9
months. Burial: New Hope Cemetery, Carters Crossroads, Darlington County near Lamar

Samuel Carlisle Carl Fields b. March 28, 1899 South Carolina d. December 7, 1968 Wagner, Aiken
County, South Carolina. Burial: Newman Swamp Methodist Cemetery

Mary Mae Kathleen Fields b. February 22, 1907 Bishopville, Lee County d. February 24, 1982 at age 75
m. William M. Riley b. June 14, 1903 d. February 13, 1992. Burial: Both at Mayesville Black Creek
Cemetery, Mayesville, Sumter County, South Carolina

Clifton Wallace Fields b. November 12, 1903 Lee County d. Monday, July 23, 1973 at a Florence,
Florence County, South Carolina hospital at age 69 m. Bessie Pearl Edwards b. October 9, 1900 d.
February 10, 1976 at age 75. Burial: Both at Lamar Memorial Cemetery.

Theron Howard Fields b. August 27, 1909 Lee County d. October 28, 1980 Lynchburg, Lee County at age
71 m. Annie P. Parnell b. March 29, 1913 d. October 25, 1980 at age 67. Burial: Both at Mayesville
Black Creek Cemetery. There may been some sort of mishap at the end of their lives, due to the
closeness of their death dates, just three days apart.
Sandy was first married to Angelina Lina Harris, who died in 1879, the year before he married Gamewell.
Sandy and Lina’s children:


Lucinda Norman Fields b. 1877
Esca Harmon Fields b. September 16, 1879 (the year of his mother’s death) d. July 9, 1966 m. Lyda
Gertrude Parnell b. June 15, 1889 d. May 30, 1919, a daughter of Paul Alexander Parnell and Sarah
Elizabeth Matthews. Esca, Lyda, and a son, Luther Thedrick Fields are buried at New Hope Cemetery,
Carters Crossroads, near Lamar. Although Mrs. Fields’ name has also been seen as Lydia, however her
name is spelled Lyda on both her grave marker and Esca’s World War I draft registration card that he
filled out.
Here's a somewhat confusing, yet interesting connection with the same Alexander extended family of which
Gamewell was a part, connected through husband Sandy, a son of Ira Bright Fields. Ira was a son of John Fields and
the former Elizabeth Mixon, a brother of Lydia Mixon Fields, wife of Abijah Elijah Ebijah Alexander, a son of Rev. Abner
M. Alexander of the Bishopville area in old Sumter District, South Carolina, making Rev. John William Reese Alexander,
Gamewell's father, Ebijah’s uncle.
OBITUARY for Gamewell that was written in newspaper style, but some of the content leaves one to believe the writer
was possibly close to the family. Judging by the heading on the obituary, it’s also possible that the writer may have
been an acquaintance of son Carl Fields. It probably comes from a Bishopville newspaper, a town where Carl was a
resident. If not, maybe it was a Darlington County paper.
Mrs. A.S. Fields
Mother of Carl Fields Passed Away in Mt. Pleasant Community
Mrs. Gamewell Fields, wife of the late Alexander S. Fields, died at her home in the Mt. Pleasant community of Lee
County, Friday morning, March 6th.
Her death was not unexpected as she had been in bad health for several years, but was only confined to her bed
about three weeks.
Mrs. Fields was the daughter of Rev. William and Mrs. Anne Alexander, and had lived all her life in the same
community. She was a woman of Christian character and endeared herself to many friends. She had been since early
childhood a member of Newman Swamp Methodist Church and was always a faithful helper in God's work.
She was ** 68 years old in February, having been born in *** 1863. The funeral was held at Newman Swamp
Methodist Church Saturday morning at 11 o'clock, conducted by her pastor, Rev. Mr. Peeler. Interment was in the
church cemetery. Her sons acted as pallbearers.
She is survived by one half-brother, John Alexander of Timmonsville, two step-children, Mrs. Newman Brown and
Esca Fields of Lee County, and four daughters and eight sons, as follows: Mrs. E.R. Huggins, Lynchburg; Mrs. G.F.
Sutton, Winnsboro; Mrs. C.O. Parnell, Lamar; Mrs. Melvin Riley, Lynchburg; Henry, Lamar, Sidney and Duncan, Society
Hill; J. Newton, Hollidaysburg, Pa.; Carl, Bishopville; Clifton, Mullins; Louis and Howard, who lived with her at the family
home, and a number of grandchildren.
All of her children were at her bedside during her last illness. Many friends sympathize with her family in her
death. The grave was completely covered with beautiful floral designs, which bespoke of the esteem in which she was
held.
United States Federal Census Reference:
1900 - June 13th. Cypress, old Darlington County, very soon to become Lee County. All were born in South
Carolina.

Alexander Fields, age 43 (head)

Francis Fields, age 36 (wife)

Annie Fields, age 18 (daughter)

Mary Fields, age 16 (daughter)

Ida Fields, age 14 (daughter)

Henry Fields, age 12 (son)

Duncan Fields, age 8 (son)

Louis Fields, age 6 (son)

Morton Fields, age 4 (son-Newton)

Corlide Fields, age 1 month (son-Carlisle)

Eslen Fields, age 21 (son - with his first wife)
1910 - June 29th. Cypress, Lee County, South Carolina. This would be Sandy’s final census survey.

J S Fields, age 53 (head)

Gamewell Fields, age 46 (wife)

Duncan E Fields, age 23 (son)

Sidney Fields, age 18 (son)

Louie Fields, age 16 (son)

Newton Fields, age 13 (son)

Carl Fields, age 10 (son)

Clifton Fields, age 6 (son)

Cathaline Fields, age 4 (daughter)

Howard Fields, age 8 months (son)
1920 - January 6th. Gamewell, now a widow, was surveyed in Cypress, Lee County,
South Carolina.

Mrs. F G Fields, age 55 (head)

Louis H Fields, age 25 (son)

Newton Fields, age 23 (son)

W Clifton Fields, age 16 (son)

Mary C Fields, age 12 (daughter)

Howard T Fields, age 10 (son)
Footnotes: * Incorrect date ** Incorrect age *** Incorrect year of birth
FRANCES MILDRED ALEXANDER (POWERS) - Parents: Joseph Kirkland Joe Alexander, Sr. and
Frances Leitha Fannie Hancock
Born: October 31, 1927 Darlington County, South Carolina
Died: January 7, 2014 Agape Senior Care, Lexington, Lexington County, South
Carolina
Marriage: 1946 to Edgar Ray Sonny Powers
Born: February 28, 1922 Florence County, South Carolina
Died: December 30, 1986 in a Florence hospital, Florence County, at age
64
Burial: Both at Byrd Cemetery, Timmonsville, Florence County
Two daughters:
 Donna Lynn Powers
 Sandra Gayle Sandy Powers
Sonny's parents:
 Willie Artie Powers b. November 4, 1876 d. April 23, 1952 at age 75
 Camilla Galloway b. August 20, 1884 d. November 9, 1980 at age 96
Mildred started her education at Lake Swamp School in Darlington County
near Timmonsville and graduated from Lamar High School in Lamar, Darlington
County in 1944. She was Class Poet, and her only sister, Gladys, was a Lamar
graduate, as well, where the eleventh grade was the final grade.
Mrs. Powers was active at Timmonsville United Methodist Church where she taught Sunday school classes from
beginners to young adults, a Methodist Youth Fellowship counselor, a circle leader, and was a District Secretary of the
United Methodist Women. She used to paint when given the notion, even furnished the artwork for a cookbook that her
circle published, once played in the hand bell choir, and was recognized by her fellow parishioners in 2008 for singing in
the church choir for 50 years.
TRIBUTE – On behalf of sister Sandy and herself, daughter Donna shares memories of
Mildred, and their father, Sonny Powers…
My earliest memories of my mother are of her being dressed in a dress with a
full skirt, wide belt, and makeup like a movie star. She was pretty enough in my eyes
to be on the silver screen. She was always happy and very much in love with my
daddy. We loved to watch television together as a family on Saturday and Sunday
nights. Our favorites were musical shows like Name that Tune, American Bandstand
and The Ed Sullivan Show: quiz shows like Sixty Four Thousand Dollar Question,
What’s My Line, Truth or Consequences and Password. We also loved the Miss
America pageant and I, my sister Sandy, and my mother would all dream of being Miss
America. That was the most admired person in our world as girls growing up in
Timmonsville, South Carolina.
Mother and Daddy liked to watch the boxing matches with our neighbors the Galloways after we were in bed.
We could hear them cheering and yelling for their favorite boxer. They also watched every Atlanta Braves baseball game
and the World Series was a huge deal in our town every year.
We would all get dressed up on Saturday night and daddy would take us to the drive-in movie where we would
play Bingo at intermission and we won some really nice prizes like lamps, clocks, ash trays, and pictures which were
displayed in our home with much pride. Sometimes we would go to the gas station at the edge of town and sit in the
car and eat hot dogs and orange crush drinks. Then we would drive down Main Street in Timmonsville to see who was
walking down the sidewalks, and if there was any activity at the police station where Saturday nights were very active
with arrests of overly-inebriated citizens. When the fire station rang the siren to signal a fire somewhere in town, we
would all get in the car and try to find it. Sometimes even in the middle of the night, we would all get up and go look or
daddy would go and we would wait up for him to get back and tell us where it was. Mother and Daddy took us to every
sports event held in the area. When we were old enough to be high school cheerleaders, they went to every game and
took us or attended every out of town game. If Sandy and I rode the school bus with the team, they would follow along
behind us in our car. They also liked to attend the American Legion baseball games so we spent a lot of time in
ballparks. Every three or four years, Daddy would buy a brand new Plymouth because he was friends with the Plymouth
dealer in town. The cars never had air conditioning, and rarely did they have a radio. Therefore, we did a lot of singing
and harmonizing while riding around.
My mother encouraged us to join everything and attend anything that was going on in town. We went to the
United Methodist Church on Sundays and we also went to the Baptist Church because there was nothing going on at our
church during the week, but there was always Sunbeams or BTU going on at the Baptist Church on Wednesdays so
Sandy and I went there too.
After we were grown and had children of our own, mother and daddy would drive to Columbia to watch almost all
of their three grandsons’ sporting events - mostly baseball. Mother continued this for as long as she was able to drive to
Columbia after daddy passed away. She would attend all of her granddaughter’s school events and college events as
well. She was always active and stayed busy her entire life, even up to the month before she passed away. She never
missed out on anything that involved her husband, her brothers and sister, her children or her grandchildren.
And she almost always wore - that pretty dress and those high heel shoes.
OBITUARY for Mildred from The State Columbia January 9, 2014
TIMMONSVILLE - Mildred Alexander Powers, 86, died in Agape Senior Care, Lexington, SC, on Tuesday, Jan. 7,
2014. Funeral services will be Friday, Jan. 10, 2014, at 2:00 p.m. at Timmonsville United Methodist Church with the
Rev. Tommy Bailey officiating. Interment will follow in Byrd Cemetery in Timmonsville. The family will speak to visitors
and friends from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. before the service at the church. Mildred was born in the Philadelphia Community of
Darlington County, the daughter of the late Joseph K. Sr. and Frances Hancock Alexander. She was a member of
Timmonsville United Methodist Church. She sang in the church choir for 50 years, the Chancel Choir, she was a member
of the Hand Bell Choir, taught Sunday School, was a member of the United Methodist Women of the Church. She held a
position on the Administrative Council, was former vice-president of the UMW. She was a youth group leader of the
"World Friendship Girls." She was a member of the Timmonsville Book Club. Mildred enjoyed oil painting, water colors,
cooking and most music. Mildred worked for the Palmetto Center as the Admittance Counselor before retiring. Mildred
was the wife of the late Edgar R. Powers. Survivors are two daughters, Donna (Bill) Jerman, Lexington, SC, Sandy
(Greg) Joye, Irmo, SC; four grandchildren, Wynn (Dana) Corley, Jonathan (Danyele) Gardner, Brooke (Will) Anthony and
Kyle Joye; four great-grandchildren and one great-great grandchild and 50 nieces and nephews. Memorials may be
made to Timmonsville United Methodist Church, c/o Karen Keels, 1516 Pinehurst Road, Timmonsville, SC 29161. LaytonAnderson Funeral Home, 4210 W. Palmetto Street, Florence, is assisting the family with arrangements.
Note: A shorter and late version of the obituary was published the day of the funeral, Friday, January 10th in the Morning News
(Florence, South Carolina). Photos: Mildred and Sonny. Mildred. Sandy and Mildred.
FRANKLIN LEE FRANK ALEXANDER - Parents: Jessie Clifton Alexander, Sr. and the former Mavie Edna Jolly
Born: May 24, 1951 South Carolina
Died: Auto mishap April 8, 1978 at age 26 rural Timmonsville, Florence County, South Carolina
Marriage: No
Burial: Sparrow Swamp Baptist Church, Timmonsville. Inscription: JESUS CALLED AND I ANSWERED.
GERALD WESLEY JERRY ALEXANDER - Parents: Jessie Clifton Alexander, Sr. and the former Mavie Edna Jolly
Born: Tuesday, December 21 1943 Florence County, South Carolina
Died: Monday, December 2, 2013 Albert, Barton County, Kansas
Marriage: January 26, 1962 Timmonsville, Florence County to Patsy Anne Howell
Born: About 1945
Died: April 29, 2013 at age 68 St. Francis Hospital, Easley, South Carolina
Burial: (Jerry) Bryant Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.
OBITUARY: Jerry Alexander (Bryant Funeral Home), Tuesday, December 22, 2013
Gerald Wesley “Jerry” Alexander, 69, died December 2, 2013 at his home in Albert,
Kansas. He was born December 21, 1943 at Florence County, South Carolina, the son
of Jessie Clifton and Mavie Edna (Jolly) Alexander. He married Patsy Anne Howell
January 26, 1962 at Timmonsville, South Carolina. She died April 29, 2013. He
worked in agriculture throughout his entire life working on a poultry livestock farm, a
dairy, hog farms, and at Tar Hill Turkey Hatchery. He also taught Agriculture
Mechanics at the Timmonsville Vocational Center and South Florence High School. He
enjoyed yard work, planting flowers and trees, hunting, fishing, and watching and
playing sports.
Survivors include two sons: The Rev. Gerald Alexander and wife Rebecca of
Portland, Tennessee, and Louie Charlton Alexander and wife Teresa of Easley, South
Carolina; two daughters: Mavie Lynn Pettit of Seneca, South Carolina, and the The
Rev. Patricia Reep of Albert; five brothers: Laurie Alexander of Timmonsville, Jessie
Clifton Alexander, Jr. of Sumter, South Carolina, John Alexander of Casset, South Carolina, Jack Alexander of
Timmonsville; and Russell Alexander of Timmonsville; two sisters: Alma Jean Brown of North Augusta, South Carolina;
and Fran Lovelace of Spring Lake, North Carolina; nine grandchildren and twelve great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, one son-in-law, Kenneth Reep, one brother, Franklin Alexander, and
one sister, Ruth Spring.
Memorial services will be at 6:30 p.m., Thursday, December 5, 2013 at Peace Lutheran Church, south of Albert,
and at 11:00 a.m., Monday, December 9, 2013 at Faith Baptist Church in Easley, South Carolina. Family will receive
friends at the home of Mavie Pettit, 250 Kelly Mill Road, Seneca, S.C. Memorials are suggested to Easley Dialysis Center
or the Kidney Foundation, in care of Bryant Funeral Home.
OBITUARY: Patsy Alexander
Easley - Patsy Howell Alexander, 68, of 124 Rocky Lane, passed away Monday, April 29, 2013 at St. Francis
Hospital. Born in Darlington, a daughter of the late Willie and Elise Howell, Mrs. Alexander was a homemaker and a
member of Faith Baptist Church.
Surviving are her husband of fifty-one years, Gerald W. Alexander of the home; two sons, Rev. Gerald Alexander
(Rebecca) of Portland, TN, and Charlton Alexander (Teresa) of Easley; two daughters, Mavie Lynn Pettit of Seneca and
Rev. Patricia Reep of Albert, KS; four brothers, seven sisters, nine grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren.
In addition to her parents, Mrs. Alexander was predeceased by a son-in-law, Kenneth Reep. Memorial services
will be 11:00 AM Thursday at Faith Baptist Church.
GLADYS MYRTIS ALEXANDER (FOLSOM) (McGINNESS) (RUTHER) - Parents: Joseph Kirkland Joe Alexander, Sr. and the former
Frances Leitha Fannie Hancock
Born: March 8, 1921 at home in Darlington County, South Carolina
Died: Tuesday April 22, 1969 at age 48 Medical College of South Carolina Hospital, Charleston, Charleston
County, South Carolina following an extended illness
Marriage 1: Olin Clyde Folsom of Philadelphia, Darlington County
Born: May 6, 1916 Darlington County
Died: May 18, 1943 in the South Pacific during World War II at age 27
Olin was a Private in the 147th Infantry Regiment. His awards include: World War II Honor Roll; Purple Heart
with Oak Leaf Cluster; Bronze Star; and additional Army awards.
Marriage 2: Wilbur Frank Pat McGinness of Higginsville, Lafayette County, Missouri
Born: June 11, 1922 Higginsville
Died: March 29, 1976 Alvin C. York Veterans Administration Hospital, Murfreesboro, Rutherford County,
Tennessee at age 53
Marriage 3: Early 1950s to Jacob Augustine Jake Ruther of Columbus, Franklin County, Ohio
Born: May 27, 1914 Trimble, a coal mining community in an area known as Seventeen, Glouster, Athens County,
Ohio, not long after his parents arrived in America
Died: March 5, 1977 Saunders Memorial Hospital, Florence, Florence County, South Carolina following a 3-week
onset of a cerebral hemorrhage at age 62.
Burial: Gladys and Jake Ruther are buried next to each other at Pine Grove United Methodist Church, Darlington
County near Timmonsville.
In 1949, Olin Folsom, whose remains were originally buried in the area of his death in the South Pacific, was
moved to Honolulu Memorial Cemetery in Hawaii, famously known also as the Punchbowl Cemetery, located in a crater,
Plot Q Row 0 Grave 76. As a side note, a monument that looks like a grave marker is often mistaken as his actual grave.
It is located in his family's grave plot at Wesley Chapel United Methodist Church, Lydia, Darlington County.
Second husband, Pat McGinness, a World War II veteran, was buried April 1, 1976 at Nashville National Cemetery
in Madison, just outside of the Nashville city limit, Section Oo, site 819.
Gladys’ only child was with Pat McGinness:

Patrick Valère Val McGinness b. September 1, 1948, Warrensburg Clinic, Warrensburg, Johnson
County, Missouri
Olin Folsom's parents:

Alvin Shuford Folsom b. June 25, 1889 South Carolina d. Sept 5, 1972 at age 83

Cassandra Mae B. Cassie (nee?) b. June 28, 1896 d. November 6, 1978. Burial: Wesley Chapel United
Methodist Church, Lydia
Pat McGinness' parents:

James Leonard McGinness b. September 27, 1877 d. November 1946

Sophia Sophie Leas b. July 1897 Freedom, Lafayette County, Missouri d. February 5, 1971, burial at
City Cemetery, Higginsville, Lafayette County
Jake Ruther's parents:

Joseph Adolph Joe Ruther b. November 17, 1887 Austria d. 1957 Akron, Ohio area

Caroline Carrie Kolitiz b. Austria d. 1972 Akron area Ohio, burial at Holy Cross Cemetery, Akron,
Summit County, Lot 838 (A & B)
Gladys attended and graduated from Lamar High School, Darlington County, after completing eleven grades, as
far as grades went, back then.
First husband Olin Clyde Folsom lived near Gladys in Philadelphia, Darlington County. They have been said by
her family members to have been childhood sweethearts. The couple married almost immediately before Pvt. Folsom
was shipped off to his unit in the South Pacific, the 147th Infantry Regiment during World War II, yet Olin never
returned, wounded a short time later. He became gravely ill, dying a short time later from a liver infection. Gladys
received posthumous awards of the Bronze Star Medal and Purple Heart with Oak
Leaf Cluster and additional Army awards. The ceremony was at Florence Army
Airfield, now the location of Florence Regional Airport in Florence on Marion
Highway. Olin’s name and three others, including Gladys’ younger brother Barney
Kirby B.K. Alexander are inscribed on a gatepost at Philadelphia Methodist Church,
Darlington County, memorializing the church members who died in World War II.
Olin was originally buried in the South Pacific, and in 1949, along with many military
casualties were transferred and reburied at the National Memorial Cemetery in
Honolulu, Hawaii, also known as the Punchbowl and Punchbowl Crater Cemetery.
TRIBUTE - Gladys' son Val remembers...
The first cousins I asked to write about their father or mother have many more memories than I do about my
mother, so I really envy them. The reason is that I was only nineteen when I lost her, then lost my father and stepfather in my 20s, so I really never got to know any of them on an adult level. Imagine all the things I would have
wanted to ask them about their lives, and the guidance I missed. Then again, what are you going to do? As ExPresident Jimmy Carter once said, “Life's not always fair”. There are times when I wish I could talk to Mom about her
life before there was a me. How did she make such good fried chicken? What was it like growing up with her mother,
father, sister, brothers, even my great-grandfather. Little things like that would be nice to
just talk about with her.
She, like most South Carolinians from the Florence and Darlington area loved Myrtle
Beach, where she chose to work following the death of her first husband, Olin Folsom. She
worked at one of the most popular restaurants in downtown Myrtle Beach, and that was
where she met my father, who was stationed there before he took off with the Army to
fight in Europe during five battles of World War II, including the Normandy invasion.
Like my Alexander aunts and uncles, Mom grew up humbly in a sharecropping family
and worked the crops and tobacco fields like all the rest of her siblings, plus cooked for the
family along with sister Mildred and their mother. It must have been a great training
ground, because her cooking, and Aunt Mildred’s was just the best. In fact, relatives who
tried Mom’s fried chicken still ask me if I know how she made it. I don't, but I do
remember the chicken. I still love to cook, but I still wish she was around to show me how
to do it right. I could have and should have paid more attention back then. I was in love with her Chicken Bog even
before I realized what it was.
Of course, there was more than cooking that made up Gladys Alexander Ruther. She was a gentle, easy-going,
somewhat quite, likable person, a top-notch dedicated mom, and a really professional waitress. I remember her
collecting silver dollars in two large institutional-sized glass pickle jars that were packed full of them, all from tips.
Everyone seemed to love her, from her friends to
her employers to her customers to her coworkers.
After basically being abandoned by my
father in South Carolina when he went off to law
school at Vanderbilt, she moved to Columbus,
Ohio seeking work at the urging of my father’s
older sister, Ann McGinness Hughes who lived in
Columbus. That’s where she met the man I grew
up calling Dad, Jake Ruther.
Jake managed an auto service station less
than a block away from the restaurant in which
she worked. We lived there until I was almost
fourteen years old. Mom wanted to go back home
to South Carolina, and Dad was just crazy about
the Alexanders and that area. I only remember
one time when we went somewhere other than
the Timmonsville-Florence area on our once-ayear vacations.
The restaurant where my mother worked was located was
at the intersection of West Broad Street and North Hague
Avenue, and my grammar school was merely a few yards away.
While still in West Broad Street Elementary, an occasional older
bully would get tough with me, but since Mom was extremely
popular with the regulars at that restaurant, including the Fonzielike high school boys, who were much tougher than the bullies,
would tell the bullies to leave me alone, mostly because I was
Gladys' son. Believe me, that was okay with me.
Even before we moved back to her home turf in South
Carolina in 1964, Mom had already been having bouts with high
blood pressure that would cause her to pass out, and the bouts
increased. That, and the fact that her doctor, Timmonsville’s Dr.
Rush could not get her blood pressure under control, and with my urging he had her checked into the medical university
hospital in Charleston. Sometimes I wonder if that was a wise decision.
In 1969 I was already working at a radio station in Charleston, and visited her quite a bit during her elongated
stay at that hospital, and saw a lot of what was happening to her during that time, and the unrest around the hospital.
It was a sad time, and the timing of her stay was not a good thing, either. The hospital was undergoing a somewhat
racially-motivated worker's strike staged by Ralph David Abernathy’s Southern Christian Leadership Conference. Due to
that, the hospital was understaffed, and she consequently received poor care. After a series of operations and inability
to heal, she died there in April of 1969. By the time I was just old enough to want to know her better as a person, Aunt
Nobia met me in the elevator after I’d rushed there from work, receiving a phone call that she had to go back into
surgery, again, for what seemed like the umpteenth time. Aunt Nobia was in the elevator and said “She’s gone, Son.”
Right before she took off for Charleston, Jake had just purchased their first home in Florence, in the same
subdivision with Uncle Marvin and Aunt Lynette, and Mom would stand in the kitchen with arms crossed, a classic pose
of hers, and would smile a true smile of happiness because of her new home. Unfortunately, that was short lived.
Not anticipating her demise at the time, she requested that when the time came, “How Great Thou Art” should be
sung at her funeral, and it was, at Sparrow Swamp Baptist Church, where she had held a membership for all of those
years since she lived in Timmonsville back in her younger days. Her song was sung by Sparrow Swamp’s popular expastor, Rev. Richard Moyers, who came back to the church, just to sing it for her. That would have brought another
smile to her face. She was forty-eight.
She’s buried next to Jake, a man who really lost it when he lost her. He was absolutely crazy about her, and
never got over her.
During Mom’s last days before passing, after too many operations, and on
plenty of medication, she calmly told me that she mentioned all of her passed
family members by name. That cemetery at Pine Grove United Methodist Church
has several departed Alexanders, including her parents, grandparents, baby
brother, aunts, uncles, and cousins.
I sometimes imagine all of their spirits getting together there for a grand
time in that old cemetery. If there is truly a Heaven, I have no doubt she was
good enough to make it there, and I hope that our Lord sees fit to reunite us one
day.
OBITUARY for Gladys from Florence Morning News April 24, 1969
TIMMONSVILLE - Mrs. Gladys Alexander Ruther, 48, wife of Jacob Ruther of
Florence, died Tuesday in a Charleston hospital after an illness of several months.
Funeral services will be conducted Friday at 3 p.m. at Sparrow Swamp Baptist Church by Rev. Thomas Truluck
and Rev. Clyde Kerley. Burial will be in Pine Grove Cemetery, directed by Layton-Perry Funeral Home.
Surviving are a son, Patrick V. McGinness of Charleston; seven brothers, Lee Alexander, Willard Alexander, Clifton
Alexander, Joe Alexander of Timmonsville, Kenneth Alexander of Effingham, Belvin and Marvin Alexander of Florence; a
sister, Mrs. Edgar (Mildred) Powers of Timmonsville.
After Gladys' died, Jake married the former
Pauline Goodson, twice-widowed, b. April 10, 1921 in
Darlington County. She died February 20, 1995 in
Florence County, South Carolina. Pauline is buried to
the left of Jake and Gladys’ double marker.
ARTICLE/OBITUARY about Olin from an unknown
publication June 1, 1942
BURIED WHERE HE DIED
DARLINGTON, June 1 - Mr. and Mrs. Alvin
Folsom of Darlington County, whose son, Private Olin
Folsom, died somewhere in the Southwest Pacific on May 18, have been notified by the War Department that the body
of the young man has been buried in the locality in which his death occurred and may be claimed after the war is over.
Private Folsom died after being seriously ill in a hospital overseas in the Pacific for several weeks. He was 26
years of age, and was serving with the U.S. Army. He had been in the service for more than a year, and has a brother,
J.B. Folsom, also with armed forces in Europe.
Memorial services for the young man will be held sometime this month at the Philadelphia Methodist Church,
South.
ARTICLE about Olin - May 24, 1942 World War II. Source not known by this research.
DARLINGTON COUPLE NOTIFIED OF DEATH OF SOLDIER SON
DARLINGTON, May 24 - Mr. and Mrs. Alvin Folsom, of Darlington County were today notified by the War
Department of the death of their son, Private Olin Folsom, with the U.S. Army somewhere in the Pacific. Early last week
the couple received news informing them of their son's serious illness, and news of his passing reached here today, the
message stating that he died on May 18. Some time ago Private Folsom was wounded in action in the Southwest
Pacific, and later his parents were informed by the War Department that he had been returned to active duty. He had
been in the service for more than a year.
Private Folsom is survived by his parents, his wife, who was formerly Miss Gladys Alexander, and several brothers
and sisters, two of the brothers also being in the service. Memorial services were being planned today to be held in the
Philadelphia Methodist Church, South, near here, sometime in June.
To date, Darlington has lost four men dead in the present World War, five missing. Two men have lost their legs,
and others seriously wounded. This is the heaviest casualty list in the entire state.
Pat McGinness' parents were farmers, then his father worked in the coal business in and around Higginsville,
Lafayette County, Missouri. Pat studied pre-law at Warrensburg College, fairly near there. He went on to law school at
Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tennessee.
Pat was known as Wilbur by his Missouri family, but Pat to just about everyone else. He was a Corporal in Army
Intelligence during World War II, and involved in several well-known battles during the war including Normandy.
United States Federal Census Reference:
1940 - April 8th. Philadelphia, Darlington County. Seventeen-year-old Gladys was still living in her parent’s home.
Already out of the house were older brothers Willard, Kenneth, Belvin, Clifton, and Lee.

Joe K Alexander, age 55






Fannie L Alexander, age 53
Gladys M Alexander, age 17
Barney K Alexander, age 14
Mildred F Alexander, age 12
Marvin E Alexander, age 10
Joseph Alexander, age 7
Photos: Gladys in the 40s at Myrtle Beach during her honeymoon with Pat McGinness. Gladys at she and Jake’s home in
Columbus, Ohio during the 1950s and early 60s. The cemetery in which Olin Folsom is buried, National Memorial Cemetery, Honolulu,
Hawaii, more commonly known as the Punchbowl or Punchbowl Crater Cemetery. The picture of the church is that of Pine Grove
United Methodist outside of Timmonsville, not far from the Florence County line in Darlington County, where Gladys and Jake are
buried, as well as several Alexander family members and relatives.
HAMILTON EARL ALEXANDER - Parents: Charles Engram Charlie Alexander and the former Ida Eula Jeffords
Born: May 9, 1909 Darlington County, South Carolina
Died: April 5, 1983 at age 73 Darlington County
Marriage: December 30, 1936 to Ann Inez Sansbury
Born: November 1, 1914 South Carolina
Died: November 27, 1998 South Carolina at age 84
Burial: Elim United Methodist Church, Oates community, Darlington County. Inscription: THE JOY OF THE LORD
IS YOUR STRENGTH.
Inez’s parents:

Eugene Colon Bub Sansbury b. August 15, 1881 d. At home of heart problems, October 1, 1955
Darlington County

Elizabeth Anna Lizzie Pipkin b. About 1889 d. October 22, 1965. Burial: Both at Elim UMC, Oates,
Darlington County
Earl and Inez lived in Oates community, Darlington County.
United States Federal Census Reference:
1940 – April 17th. Oates (School District 27), Darlington County. Earl and Inez were living at his parents’ home.
Earl was listed as a farmer (Working on his own account ), who had completed one year of high school. Although still
living in his parents’ home, this was his first survey as a married man.

Charles E Alexander, age 67 (head)

Ida Alexander, age 57 (wife)

Frank Alexander, age 36 (son)

Woodrow Alexander, age 25 (son)

Ira Alexander, age 19 (son)

Leola Alexander, age 15 (daughter)

Sallie Alexander, age 11 (daughter)

Earl Alexander, age 30 (son)

Inez Alexander, age 25 (daughter in law)

Josephine Alexander, age 1 (granddaughter)
HELEN FLORA ALEXANDER (WHITE) - Parents: John Luther Alexander, Sr. (1) and Bertha Rosalie Lechner
Born: February 4, 1921 South Carolina
Died: October 10, 1986 Darlington County, South Carolina at age 65 (an obituary from the newspaper The State
was published October 11th)
Marriage: Robert Randall White, Jr.
Born: August 3, 1915 South Carolina
Died: February 23, 2008 Timmonsville, Florence County, South Carolina at age 82
Burial: Helen, Robert, and infant Marilyn are buried at Pine Grove UMC, Darlington County near
Timmonsville. Inscription on Helen and Robert’s marker: OUR FATHER WHO ART IN HEAVEN.
Helen and Robert had children, one of whom died as a child:

Marilyn White b. June 21, 1949 South Carolina d. March 27, 1952 South Carolina at age 2. The child’s
inscription: SUFFER LITTLE CHILDREN TO COME UNTO ME FOR OF SUCH IS THE KINGDOM OF
HEAVEN.
Robert’s parents:

Robert Randall White, Sr. b. September 14, 1886 d. June 21, 1972

Annie Hatchell b. November 28, 1892 d. August 8, 1961. Burial: Both at Pine Grove UMC.
United States Federal Census Reference:
1940 - May 15th. Anderson (School District), Philadelphia, Darlington County. This was Helen and Robert’s first
census survey as husband and wife.

Robert White, age 25 (head)

Helen White, age 18 (wife)

Bertha Ann White, age 1 (daughter)
Photo: Pine Grove United Methodist Church, burial location of Helen, Robert, infant Marilyn, and several Alexander family
members. The church is directly across the road from Helen and Robert’s former home.
HENRY LEE ALEXANDER - Parents: John Wesley Alexander and the former Sarah A.M. Sallie Stewart
Born: July 25, 1872 Darlington County, South Carolina
Died: At home from heart failure March 7, 1948, 2:45 a.m. at age 75
Marriage: June 23, 1900 to Laura M. Raines of High Hill, Darlington County
Born: About 1882
Died: February 16, 1957 at age 74 in Greenville, Greenville County
Burial: Woodlawn Memorial Park, Greenville March 8, 1948. His obituary was published in a Greenville
newspaper, unknown to this research, on the day he was buried.
Henry and Laura's known children:
1. Carl Henry Alexander
2. Edna D. Alexander
3. Eugene E. Gene Alexander
4. James H. Alexander
5. John Lee Alexander
6. Leland S. Alexander
7. Lewis R. Alexander
8. William A. Willie Alexander
Laura’s mother was Susan M. (nee?) Raines.
Henry and Laura Alexander eventually moved out of Darlington County, and into Greenville, where they remained
for the rest of their lives. Laura worked in what was known as a sewing room. In their day, Greenville was prominent in
the textile industry. Henry worked as a barber in the Poe community of Greenville. A retired barber at his death, Henry
may have begun his career by the influence of a Raines relative who was also a barber. It may have been Louis B.
Raines, who Henry worked for at some period in his life.
For whatever reason, Henry was listed as Harry on a couple of early United States Census surveys for Darlington
County while he was still living in his father's household. In 1997 I asked Henry’s daughter-in-law Dot if she ever knew
of Henry being referred to as Harry. She said no. It may have been that the census taker was one of those who would
take a person’s name and enter it as a nickname instead of using a proper name on the survey instead of the actual
name. In the past, Harry has been used as a nickname for Henry, and so was Hank.
Henry died at 15 Woodside Circle, Greenville, his residence. Laura was alive at the time of his passing, and was
the informant of his death. A copy of his obituary, published the day after his death, is reportedly available through the
Greenville County Library System.
In 1924, according to the Greenville City Directory, Henry and Laura were found living at 223 Montgomery
Avenue. Son Gene was listed in that same directory as a driver for Ballenger Brothers, and he had the same address as
his parents. Carl was found in both the 1935 and 1938 City Directory as working for the same people, and living at the
same place.
United States Federal Census Reference:
1910 - April 15th. Greenville, Greenville County, South Carolina. Henry is absent from the household in this
survey, with his wife as Head of household. World War I did not commence until 1914, but he may have been serving in
the military, yet he was 37 years at the time, not necessarily too old at that time period. His death certificate is blank in
the part about whether he was in the service. Laura’s father had evidently died by this survey, and Laura's mother was
living in her household.

Mrs. L M Alexander, age 28 (head)

John Alexander, age 7 (son)

Lewis Alexander, age 3 (son)

Eugene Alexander, age 1 (son)

Mrs. S A Raines, age 70 (mother - Susan M. [nee?] Raines)

Mrs. Nannie Ray, age 25 (boarder)
1920 - January 10th. Greenville, Greenville County, South Carolina. Laura was listed as his wife, yet he was listed
as single in this survey. During this survey Laura didn't have a job. Henry was a barber.

Henry L Alexander, age 48 (head)

Laura Alexander, age 36 (wife)

Eugean Alexander, age 11 (son)

Edna Alexander, age 7 (daughter)

William Alexander, age 4 years 9 months (son)

Carl Alexander, age 1 year 8 months (son)
1930 - April 14th. Greenville, Greenville County. Henry was a barber, possibly running or owning the shop, and
Laura was listed as working in a Sewing fac. (factory) as a seamstress.

Henry L Alexander, age 57 (head)

Laura M Alexander, age 47 (wife)

William A Alexander, age 15 (son)

Carl H Alexander, age 12 (son)

Leland S Alexander, age 9 (son)

James H Alexander, age 6 (son)
Henry and Laura are featured in the cover photo of this book, taken on the day of their wedding.
JAMES DAVID ALEXANDER - Parents: Loren Vivian Alexander and the former Eunice Lee
Born: August 6, 1939 South Carolina
Died: September 28, 2008 Ridgeway, Fairfield County, South Carolina at age 69 (Social Security Death Index)
Burial: Possibly the county in which he died
David was the only of his siblings to survive infancy. He didn’t stay in contact with his aunts, uncles, and cousins,
and is known to have lived in Darlington and Florence counties in South Carolina, Columbus, Mississippi, Colorado
Springs, Colorado, and Macon, Georgia.
In 1991 David was living in Macon, and in 1994 David stopped by my workplace there, and I met his wife and
daughter. The daughter appeared to be almost into adulthood, and told me she was working at a Taco Bell.
Apologetically, I don’t remember their names, after seeing them casually only one time while working. During that same
year, he moved to Colorado Springs, Colorado.
JAMES ERVIN JIM ALEXANDER, SR. - Parents: Charles Engram Charlie Alexander and the former Ida Eula Jeffords
Born: November 24, 1910 Florence County, South Carolina
Died: November 5, 1996 at age 85
Marriage: January 10, 1937 to Virginia Louise Mixon
Born: January 1, 1920 in Florence County
Died: January 25, 2000
Burial: Westview Memorial Cemetery, Hartsville, Darlington County, South Carolina. James was buried November
7, 1996, and Virginia was buried January 27, 2000.
James and Virginia’s known children:

Ervin Alexander b. About 1938

Louise Alexander b. About 1939
Virginia's parents:

Edward Leon Eddie Mixon, Sr. b. February 2, 1881 d. April 30, 1951 Timmonsville, Florence County

Docia Corrine Docie Windham b. January 4, 1894 Windham’s Crossroads, Darlington County d. April 12,
1981 Timmonsville. Burial: Both at Byrd Cemetery, Timmonsville.
Jim and Virginia were longtime residents of Hartsville.
OBITUARY for Jim from Florence Morning News of November 7, 1996
Hartsville - Funeral services for James Ervin Alexander, Sr., 85, who died Tuesday, November 5, 1996, will be
today, November 7, at 4 p.m. from the Lakeview Baptist Church. The Rev. Don Purvis will officiate. Burial will be in the
Westview Memorial Cemetery, directed by Norton Funeral Home.
Mr. Alexander was born in Florence County, a son of the late Charlie I. and Ida Jeffords Alexander. He was
retired from Hartsville Coffee and was a member of Lakeview Baptist Church.
Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Virginia Mixon Alexander of Hartsville; one son, Ervin Alexander of Hartsville; one
daughter, Mrs. Louise Stephens of Prosperity; two sisters, Mrs. Sally Newsome of Hartsville and Mrs. Leola Watford of
Lamar; five grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, and one 2-great-grandchild.
OBITUARY for Virginia from Florence Morning News January 26, 2000
Hartsville - Funeral services for Virginia Mixon Alexander, 80, who died Tuesday, January 25, 2000 will be at 3
p.m. Thursday from the Lakeview Baptist Church. Dr. Don Purvis will officiate. Burial will be in Westview Memorial
Cemetery directed by Norton Funeral Home.
Visitation will be from 7 to 9 p.m. today at the funeral home.
Mrs. Alexander was born in Florence County, a daughter of the late Eddie and Docie Windham Mixon. She was a
member of the Lakeview Baptist Church and retired from the Hartsville Mill.
Surviving are a son, Ervin Alexander of Hartsville; a daughter, Mrs. Louise Stephens of Prosperity; a sister, Mrs.
Connie Rogers of Timmonsville; a brother, E.L. Mixon of Timmonsville; five grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren,
and a 2-great-grandchild.
She was preceded in death by her husband, James Ervin Alexander.
United States Federal Census Reference:
1940 - June 6th. Timmonsville, Florence County. They had lived in the same location April 1, 1935.

James Alexander, age 29 (head)

Virginia Alexander, age 20 (wife)

Ervin Alexander, age 2 (son)

Louise Alexander, age 1 (daughter)
JAMES H. ALEXANDER - Parents: Henry Lee Alexander and the former Laura M. Raines
Born: About 1924
Burial: Reportedly in the Greenville, Greenville County, South Carolina area.
At the time of brother Carl’s death in 1961, James was living in Greenville.
JESSIE CLIFTON ALEXANDER, SR. (1) - Parents: Joseph Kirkland Joe Alexander, Sr. and the former Frances Leitha Fannie Hancock
Born: May 26, 1906 Darlington County, South Carolina
Died: May 12, 1973 Florence County, South Carolina at age 66
Marriage: About 1930 to Mavie Edna Jolly
Born: October 12, 1911 South Carolina
Died: April 30, 1981 South Carolina at age 69
Burial: Sparrow Swamp Baptist Church, Timmonsville, Florence County.
Clifton and Mavie's children:
1. Alma Jean Alexander
2. Ruth Edna Alexander
3. Jessie Clifton Alexander, Jr.
4. Laurie Silas Alexander
5. Fannie Laura Fran Alexander
6. John Gee Alexander
7. Gerald Wesley Jerry Alexander
8. Jack Stanley Alexander
9. Russell Dale Alexander
10. Franklin Lee Frank Alexander
Mavie's parents:

Silas Jolly b. June 6, 1886 d. August 4, 1942 Effingham, Florence County at age 56

Queen Ester Queenie Thompson b. May 13, 1892 d. March 6, 1956 at age 62. Burial: Both Pine Grove
United Methodist Church, Timmonsville.
Clifton and Mavie last resided on Ansel Street in Timmonsville.
Clifton was the elder of his siblings.
TRIBUTE - Clifton’s daughter Fran remembers…
It is only human nature for children to think that they know more than their parents when they are young. It
takes becoming a parent yourself to really understand and appreciate your parents. It is only then that you can realize
the hopes, dreams, fears and sorrows that your parents experienced.
We know that Clifton had many dreams that were never fulfilled. Because of having very little money, there
was no need to worry about it. It was difficult for him to take care of his ten children but he always managed
somehow. Perhaps most of them remember the hard times and can somehow love him even more for trying.
He tried hard to do his best by us. He fed and clothed us and disciplined and loved us. Times were hard but
he always tried to spend the last dollar or fifty cents to make one of us happy - a candy bar, or soda or something that
he knew we wanted.
In his younger years he worked on the * W.P.A., and had to give it up because of a crippling spinal disease that
eventually made him totally disabled. He was always a farmer, and even though he wasn't physically able to do a lot of
work himself, he made sure his children did it. Oh! How we hated it when he would get us started in the field to work
and then he would take off and not come back until it was nearly dark. Little did we know the pain he suffered but by
now most of his children have been afflicted with the disease he had, some more severe than others and now we know
a little of his suffering.
Whenever someone would come along and pay a compliment on the garden or a tobacco or cotton field, he
would strut like a peacock! We suppose he was proud of what his children had done to receive such compliments.
Clifton was a great fisherman. It seems as though he always felt like fishing when he could not do anything
else. As children we never knew how many BC Headache Powders or Anacin he had to take just to feel like fishing. He
would always get us started digging bait, and as soon as we had enough to start he would take one of us to carry his
tackle box, and he would go to the river bank leaving the rest of us behind to dig enough worms to fill the remaining
cans. We always got to fish later though.
Another of his great loves was sports of any kind, but some form of ball was his favorite because he loved to
watch his sons (all seven) play. This brought him much pleasure. He was proud of his children. He also loved a radio
because he would stay up late at night to hear a fight or wrestling or some sports show. We believe it was in his blood.
Clifton was a very generous man. He would have given away everything we had if our mama would have let
him. Her concern was for her children. There were times when he would have us load the back of our old car with
turnips, collards, sweet potatoes or whatever was in season and go to town, park the car and go in the stores and tell
people to go get whatever they wanted. He loved “hog killing” days when he could have relatives, neighbors and friends
come and help and when we were finished he always seemed to have given away more than we kept. We didn't know
at the time but that was the Lord's way of returning our blessings - the more you give, the more you receive.
He loved to laugh. He would laugh so hard he would shake all over. Hopefully laughing covered some of his
pain. Laughter comes from a merry heart and worketh like a good medicine. There were many occasions where he
would laugh until tears would run down his face. One of these times came about on a hot summer day when Clifton was
sitting under a Chinaberry tree and kept complaining about the heat and one of his sons-in-law decided to try to help
him by cutting his pants leg off and making him some Bermudas. As he cut the pants off up above the knees, the
material began to rip and before he knew it, the entire crotch had ripped out leaving him in quite a predicament. His
son-in-law just walked away and left in
laughing tears. There were many
moments such as this.
Clifton sharecropped many
years for G.K. Young, one of the finest
and most honest men in the
community. He always treated Clifton
and his family as if we were part of his
own family. We were blessed to have
G.K. and his wife Mildred be such a vital
part of our lives.
Footnote: * Workers Progress
Administration
OBITUARY for Clifton, possibly from
Florence Morning News
TIMMONSVILLE - Funeral
services for Jessie Clifton Alexander will
be conducted Tuesday at 4 p.m. at
Sparrow Swamp Baptist Church by
the Rev. Freddie Yound and the Rev.
Thomas Terry. Burial will be in the church cemetery, directed by Layton-Perry Funeral Home.
Mr. Alexander, 66, died Saturday in a Florence hospital after a short illness.
He was born in Darlington County, a son of the late Joseph and Fannie Hancock Alexander.
Mr. Alexander was a retired farmer, and a member of the Sparrow Swamp Baptist Church and the Woodmen of
the World.
Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Mavie Jolly Alexander of the home; seven sons, Jerry Alexander, Laurie Alexander,
and Russell Alexander, all of Timmonsville, Frank and Jack Alexander, both of Rochester, New York, John Alexander of
Cassett, and Jessie C. Alexander, Jr. of U.S. Air Force, Alaska; three daughters, Mrs. James William Brown of North
Augusta, Mrs. Duewell Spring of Florence, and Mrs. Bill Lovelace of Fayetteville, N.C.; five brothers, Lee Alexander,
Willard Alexander, and Joe Alexander, all of Timmonsville, Belvin Alexander of Florence and Kenneth Alexander of
Effingham; a sister, Mrs. Edgar Powers of Timmonsville; 20 grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.
United States Federal Census Reference:
1930 - April 15th. Timmonsville, Florence County. This was Clifton and Mavie’s first census survey as a married
couple. They were living next door to, or on the same property with Clifton’s aunt, Laura Bell Hancock Ward and her
husband William Barney Ward.

Jessie C Alexander, age 23 (head)

Mavie Alexander, age 18 (wife)

Alma Alexander, age 6 months (daughter)
1940 - June 20th. Timmonsville. Clifton and his family were living on a farm, next door to a first cousin on his
mother’s side, Keith Hancock, and Clifton’s younger brother Willard was living in Keith’s household. Those in Clifton’s
family who were born by the census enumeration on June 1st, 1935 were living in the same place on that date.

Clifton J. Alexander, age 34 (head)

Mavie Alexander, age 29 (wife)

Alma Jean, age 10 (daughter)

Ruth Alexander, age 7 (daughter)

Clifton Jr., age 5 (son)

Laurie Alexander, age 3 (son)

Fannie Laurie Alexander, age 1 (daughter)
JOHN LEE ALEXANDER - Parents: Henry Lee Alexander and the former Laura M. Raines
Born: About 1903
Burial: Possibly the Greenville, Greenville County, South Carolina area, or possibly New York. At the time of
brother Carl’s obituary in 1961, John was living in New York.
JOHN LUTHER ALEXANDER, SR. (1) - Parents: John Wesley Alexander and Sarah A.M. Sallie Stewart
Born: January 23, 1878 Darlington County, South Carolina
Died: January 25, 1955 at age 77 rural Darlington County. He succumbed due to cardiac thrombosis brought on
by arteriosclerosis.
Marriage 1: January 1, 1899 to Nettie Hatchell
Born: April 1, 1880 Timmonsville, Darlington County
Died: June 25, 1916 High Hill, Darlington County at age 36
Marriage 2: Bertha Rosalie Lechner
Born: October 17, 1876 Darlington County
Died: April 6, 1969 South Carolina at age 92
Burial: Luther and Bertha at Pine Grove UMC, Darlington County, just outside of
Timmonsville. Nettie’s burial was also outside of Timmonsville in Darlington County at Lake
Swamp Baptist Church, the day after her death. Near Nettie are their infant daughter, Ruth,
and infant son John Luther, Jr. (1). Luther Sr.’s funeral was handled by Kistler Funeral Home
of Darlington.
Luther and Nettie’s children:

Arnold Ceil Alexander, Sr.

Bertha Marie Alexander

John Luther Alexander, Jr. (1) (infant) b. August 26, 1915 Darlington County
d. November 6, 1915 High Hill, Darlington County at 2 months and 11 days.
Burial: November 7, 1915 Lake Swamp Baptist Church. His death due to cholera.

Julia Louise Alexander

Lena Marian Alexander

Mary Berta Alexander

Ruth Alexander (infant) b. April 5, 1910 South Carolina. May 14, 1911 South Carolina with burial at Lake
Swamp Baptist Church

Sadie C. Alexander
Luther and Bertha's children:

Carol Alexander b. November 19, 1918 d. September 21, 1919 at almost ten months of age, burial: Near
her parents' at Pine Grove United Methodist Church

Helen Flora Alexander
Nettie's parents:

James Larry L. Hatchell b. 1847 Darlington County d. About 1912 Darlington County

Julia Olivia Anderson b. About 1858 d. 1893 Darlington County.
James and Julia were living in Timmonsville during the 1880 Census. In that enumeration of June 16th, Nettie
was listed as 2 months of age. James was a farmer. All in the household were born in South Carolina. Julia was
Keeping house. The rest of the household inhabitants were Nettie's siblings: Josephine Hatchell, age 5; Elliott L.
Hatchell, age 4; and Lula Hatchell, age 2.
Bertha’s parents:

Frank C. Lechner b. About 1844 Scotland. He has been said to have spoken
English as his mother tongue. No marked gravesite found.

Martha E. Thornal b. June 1838 South Carolina d. About 1918. Burial:
Martha at Pine Grove UMC
Nettie, referred to as a House wife in her Certificate of Death. She died due
to Bright’s Disease, a kidney disorder, as did her father. On that same certificate,
her name was spelled as Nittie. Luther was listed as the Informant of her death.
Luther’s second wife, Bertha was a friend of the family, who helped care for Nettie
during her fatal illness.
Daughter Sadie Alexander was living her father's
home during the 1900 census for High Hill, Darlington
County. Many references to Sadie have her middle initial
as C. Her tombstone inscription says E.
Luther registered for the World War I draft on
September 12, 1918. He was described as having blue
eyes, brown hair, and tall. He was living on Route 2,
Darlington in Darlington County. His Present Occupation
was Farming, and his nearest relative was listed as Mrs.
J.L. Alexander, also of Route 2. His signature is on the
draft card.
ARTICLE about Bertha and Maggie from Florence Morning News February 6, 1958
MRS. ALEXANDER, SENIOR CITIZEN, RECALLS HER LIFE
by Bess Truman
Mrs. Bertha * Locker Alexander, 81, lives with her sister-in-law, Miss Maggie Alexander
in the Lake Swamp community of Darlington County, just across the Florence County line.
Her father was a Yankee and fought against her mother's first husband, who, through the irony of fate, was killed
in jumping from a train in his hurry to get home quickly after the close of the Confederate War. Her Yankee father liked
the South so much that he drove a pack of horses down South after the war to sell, met Bertha's mother and married
her.
Her great-great grandfather, Amos ** Thornhill, helped organize the Lake Swamp Church, the first in Lake
Swamp. He lived in a one-room log house, one of the oldest in Darlington County, was buried in the yard under a big
oak tree, to which his son added another log room and hallway and moved it closer to the road. Their former home site
was later converted into a *** cemetery, with Bertha's 2-great-grandfather's grave **** remaining in it. Bertha says
the big oak sheltering it only fell from age a few years ago.
Bertha, her mother, and her grandmother were born in this log house, though Bertha says the outside had been
all weather-boarded when she first remembers it. On his death, an uncle, who inherited it, deeded it to Pine Grove
***** Baptist Church, which still stands and can be seen from Bertha's home.
“Well, I taught school for 13 years, ten before my marriage and three afterward.” said Bertha. “Yes, she is
considered one of the best educated Senior Citizens in the Lake Swamp community.” interrupted Maggie, her sister-inlaw.
“Well, I did go to college about five years, agreed Bertha, though not all to the same college. I started to
Converse College first with my older sister, but entered the academic department, corresponding to high school the first
year, as I had not yet finished night school before going with her sister. In the middle of the second year, my sister died
and the school burned, so I transferred to Columbia College. Then while visiting relatives in Georgia, they persuaded my
mother to send me to National Park Seminary in Washington, where I received my B.S. degree. I was a county
demonstrator agent for three years, conducting a course in this work with Miss Edith Parrott at Coker College, the first, I
believe that was ever held. I married John Luther and had he lived until January 24 of this year, we would have been
married 41 years. He was a widower with six children, the youngest, Arnold, being only 4 ½ years old. He now
manages my farm for me. The oldest, Sadie now deceased, married two weeks after I did; Julia married Herbert Jordan,
who is now county manager of Darlington County. Mary lives in Darlington and Lena married a Mr. Nivens of
Charlotte. In two weeks after my husband died, 20 years ago, Sadie married, and in two more weeks, Maggie, my
husband's sister, who has devoted the best years of her life caring for her sister's children, then came to live with me
and we have lived together ever since.”
“Maggie has her own living quarters in the front of the house and we both spend every night at my own
daughter's, ****** Mrs. White whose home you can see at the cross roads, just a step away, across the street from the
store. We do our chores before leaving in the short winter days. I live mostly on the young sprouts of corn and navy
beans started in pure sand before their roots have hardly started. I contribute my good health to this diet, eating about
30 tiny young plants at a time, though I do use and infra... (on the copy of the article I had access to, a short part of the
end was not legible due to the copying technique) …some years ago.”
Although I made the effort to locate Nettie’s obituary in the Florence Morning News and The State, she doesn’t
seem to have one. That according to a librarian with the Florence Public Library who specializes in obituaries, Ruth
Kilgallon, to whom I owe a debt of gratitude for her assistance in years past.
For a further explanation, in the newspaper article, Bertha mentioned her maternal great-great grandfather was
Amos Thornal, that he lived in a log cabin, owning the property on which it was located. It became the burying ground
for years for the Thornal family, and for many years was known as the Thornal Cemetery. The old Pine Grove Methodist
Church, still standing and near Interstate 20, buried their dead at Thornal Cemetery, which was not too far away from
the old church. The newer Pine Grove Methodist, built around 1951, now known as Pine Grove United Methodist Church,
is built in front of the graveyard on South Carolina Highway 341 outside of Timmonsville in Darlington County.
OBITUARY for Luther from Florence Morning News January 27, 1955
Darlington, January 26 - J. Luther Alexander, 77, of the Pine Grove Community died last night at home after an
illness lasting several months.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday from the Pine Grove Methodist church. The pastor, the Rev.
B.S. Hughes will officiate, assisted by the Rev. Luther Shealy. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.
Mr. Alexander was born in Darlington County, son of the late John Wesley Alexander and Sally Stewart. He was
for 15 years a member of the Darlington County Board, and for 30 years he had been superintendent of the Sunday
School at the Piney Grove Church. He was chairman of the board of stewards at the church and was treasurer of the
church building fund. He was one of the most outstanding leaders of his community.
Surviving are his widow, Mrs. Bertha L. Alexander; one son, Arnold C. Alexander of Darlington County; five
daughters, Mrs. E.T. Nivens of Charlotte, of Darlington County; one brother, Mrs. David Fields of Hartsville, Mrs. Herbert
l. Jordan and Mrs. Archie McKay, both of Timmonsville, and Mrs. Robert White Jr.; Joe K. Alexander of Timmonsville; one
sister, Miss Maggie Alexander of Darlington; 24 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren.
OBITUARY for Bertha from Florence Morning News April 7, 1969
Darlington - Mrs. Bertha Lechner Alexander, 92, of the Pine Grove Community of Darlington County, died early
Sunday morning in a Darlington hospital after a brief illness.
Funeral services will be Monday at 4 p.m. in the Pine Grove United Methodist Church with Rev. R.N. Wells
officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery, directed by Kistler Funeral Home.
Mrs. Alexander was born in Darlington County, a daughter of the late Frank C. and Martha Thornal Lechner. She
was a lifelong resident of Darlington County and the widow of the late J. Luther Alexander who died in 1955. She was a
member of the Pine Grove United Methodist Church where she was a teacher of the Bertha Alexander Sunday School
Class. She was a member of the Pine Grove WSCS.
Surviving are a daughter, Mrs. Robert (Helen) White Jr. of Darlington; a stepdaughter, Mrs. Herbert I. (Julia)
Jordan of Darlington; 25 grandchildren and 49 great-grandchildren.
Pallbearers will be Otto Davis, Olin DuBose, Henry Wallace, Charley Ham, Alvin DeWitt, and Earl
Wallace. Honorary pallbearers will be the Men's Bible Class of the Pine Grove United Methodist Church.
There was also an obituary for Bertha in the Columbia, South Carolina newspaper The State, published April 7,
1969, possibly the same one as published in the Florence Morning News.
United States Federal Census Reference:
1900 - June 20th. High Hill, Darlington County just outside of Timmonsville. Luther was living on the same
property with both his father and brother Charlie’s family, likely Lone Tree Farm (now on Sallie Hill Road in rural
Timmonsville, Florence County.

John L Alexander, age 23 (head)

Nettie Alexander, age 20 (wife)

Sadie C Alexander, age 2 months (daughter)
1910 - April 23rd. Timmonsville, Florence County. This would be Nettie's last survey.

Luther J Alexander, age 33 (head)

Nettie Alexander, age 30 (wife)

Sadie C Alexander, age 10 (daughter)

Lena M Alexander, age 8 (daughter)

Marie Alexander, age 7 (daughter)

Julia Alexander, age 5 (daughter)

Mary Alexander, age 2 (daughter)
1920 - January 23rd through 27th. Indian Branch, School District 23, Darlington County. Nettie had died, and
Luther married Bertha Rosalie Lechner. They owned their home, and continued to in later surveys.

J Luther Alexander, age 41 (head)

Bertha R Alexander, age 42 (wife)

Marie Alexander, age 16 (daughter)

Julia Alexander, age14 (daughter)

Mary Alexander, age 12 (daughter)

Arnold Alexander, age 7 (son)
1930 - April 2nd. Anderson (School District), Darlington County. The enumeration was conducted by Luther's
nephew, Roy Dudley Hatchell, a son of Mattie Viola Mollie Alexander Hatchell. Luther was a farmer.

John L Alexander, age 52 (head)

Bertha M Alexander, age 52 (wife)

Arnold Alexander, age 19 (son)

Helen Alexander, age 9 (daughter)
1940 – May 17th. Anderson (School District 11), Darlington County. Luther’s father died at Lone Tree Farm since
the 1930 survey, and Maggie was now living with Luther and Bertha. The 1940 survey asked everyone where they were
living on April 1, 1935, and Maggie’s name had Same house. She continued to live with Bertha after Luther passed.
Luther’s real estate was valued at $4,000.

J Luther Alexander, age 62 (head)

Bertha Alexander, age 62 (wife)

Maggie Alexander, age 58 (sister)
Footnotes: * Lechner is correct. ** Thornal is correct. *** Thornal Cemetery, later Pine Grove United Methodist Church’s
cemetery. **** Many Thornals are buried there, yet I’ve never been able to locate Amos Thornal’s grave. ***** Methodist is correct.
****** The niece mentioned in the article was Helen Flora Alexander White. Photos: John Luther Alexander, Sr., Bertha Lechner
Alexander from a newspaper article, and Luther with 1st wife Nettie, and daughter Sadie.
JOHN LUTHER ALEXANDER, SR. (2) - Parents: Arnold Ceil Alexander, Sr. and Maggie Mae Rogers
2009.
Born: June 20, 1944
Died: July 14, 2009 following an illness at age 65
Marriage: Judy Freeman
Burial: This Luther’s buried at Pine Grove UMC, Darlington County, very near his old home, placed there July 17,
Luther and Judy had at least one child.
This Luther has a (2) next to it because his grandfather was John Luther Alexander, Sr., and also called Luther.
His grandfather had a son named John Luther Alexander, Jr. A little confusing, yet what a posthumous honor for the
original John Luther Alexander, Sr. (1)
OBITUARY for Luther from Morning News July 16, 2009
DARLINGTON - John Luther Alexander, Sr., 65, died Tuesday, July 14, 2009 after an illness.
Funeral services will be Friday, July 17, 2009 at 3:00 p.m. at Pine Grove United Methodist Church,
Timmonsville. Interment will follow in the church cemetery.
Mr. Alexander was born in Darlington County, the son of the late Arnold C. and Maggie Rogers Alexander. He
was a member of Pine Grove United Methodist Church, Timmonsville, S.C.
Survivors are his wife of Darlington, Judy Freeman Alexander, a son, John Luther Alexander, Jr., Darlington; two
brothers, Eldredge Lee (Jeannette) Alexander, Florence, Arnold Ceil Alexander, Jacksonville, Florida; a sister, Grace
(James) Brown, Sumter, S.C.
29161.
Memorials may be made to Pine Grove United Methodist Church, 3544 Timmonsville Hwy., Timmonsville, SC
Visitation will be at Friday, July 17, 2009 at 2:00 at Pine Grove United Methodist Church prior to the service and
other times at the home of Eldredge Lee and Jeannette Alexander.
Layton-Anderson Funeral Home 4210 W. Palmetto Street, Florence is assisting the family with arrangements.
JOHN WESLEY ALEXANDER - Parents: Rev. John William Reese Alexander and Delilah Alexandra Liley Kea
Born: August 26, 1846 Cureton’s Bridge Post Office, a community serviced by that post office back in that day, a
way of designating the community’s location. The location in which John was born is now considered Center community
of rural Newville, Henry County, Alabama in the vicinity of Center UMC, and not far from the Dale County line. The area
was once known as Cureton’s Bridge community is no longer thought of in those terms, just the actual bridges that now
cross the waters on Alabama Highway 27 in Henry County. John was the only one of his immediate family not born in
South Carolina.
Died: At Lone Tree Farm, his home in rural Timmonsville, Florence County, South Carolina on February 13, 1934
at 10:30 p.m. of chronic myocardial degeneration. The home was on the Florence County side of the FlorenceDarlington border which happened to be at the northern edge of his property. The line is still at Lake Swamp creek.
John lived to be 87 years, 5 months, and 18 days. His physician was the well-known Dr. J.F. Davenport, namesake of
Timmonsville's Davenport Clinic, his regular doctor, who signed his death certificate.
Marriage: February 1, 1866 Sarah A.M. Sallie Stewart
Born: February 16, 1840 Darlington District, South Carolina
Died: December 15, 1917 at age 77 Darlington County, South Carolina
Burial: Both at what is now Pine Grove UMC, Darlington County near Timmonsville on South Carolina Highway
340. For whatever reason, John stopped burying his deceased on his Lone Tree Farm, and had Sallie buried at the old
Thornal Cemetery. The old Pine Grove Methodist, a mile or so away, although still standing the last time I saw it, was
relocated to its present site, and a new building built in front of the old Thornal burying ground in 1951. Several of our
Alexanders are buried there. The church is now known as Pine Grove United Methodist Church. John was buried there
February 15, 1934.
John and Sallie's children (in order of birth):
1. Mary A. Elizabeth Alexander (1867-1886)
2.
Ella L. Alexander (1870-1902)
3.
Charles Engram Charlie Alexander (1871-1949)
4.
Henry Lee Alexander (1872-1948)
5.
Mattie Viola Mollie Alexander (1874-1951)
6.
John Luther Alexander, Sr. (1878-1955)
7.
Maggie Louise Alexander (1879-1965)
8.
Addie Olivia Alexander (1883-1911)
9.
Joseph Kirkland Joe Alexander, Sr. (1885-1962)
Sallie’s parents:

Abel S. Stewart

Lydia Kirkley
The large Stewart family lived in the vicinity of Lydia and Philadelphia
communities in Darlington County. More on her family is outlined in the last section
of this report. It hasn’t been easy to find information on them.
At his passing, John was retired from active farming, something he had done
for 70 years. According to everyone who knew him, and his legacy on paper, he
was an extremely well-liked and influential citizen in his community. My late uncle,
Willard Alexander once told me a family story about his grandfather John, and how
he went to the aid of a student who was about to be expelled by disgruntled school
officials. Despite the low odds of the boy being vindicated, John's good word
evidently helped the boy to stay in school.
During the 1960's, John's farm was converted into a short-lived golf course in
the 60s and/or 70s. Since then, the land has slowly been developed into a respectable neighborhood of housing, an
auto mechanic business, and a horse stable.
A cemetery used by John’s family back in the day is located near the swamp, behind a row of housing and the
stable. The subdivision now makes that graveyard somewhat inaccessible. I don’t know exactly where it’s located, and
have never actually seen it, but would like to inspect it to see what condition it's in. It doesn’t appear to be catalogued
in any cemetery surveys that I’ve viewed, but I’ve been told that it was damaged over the years, with stories of how the
Florence County Sheriff’s deputies had to go out there at least two times due to vandalism, and even grave-digging a
few years back. Sad. Those buried there, and believed to have been buried there include Charlie Alexander’s first wife,
Olivia, a small number of their children, and I think possibly John's daughter Ella Alexander Hatchell, who may be the
first, if not one of the first to be buried there in the early 1900s.
Several of my elder Alexander aunts and uncles have told me that an old holly bush that was there until a few
years ago on Sallie Hill Road, on the left side of the road going toward Darlington, indicated where to turn to the right to
go the old two-story house on Lone Tree Farm in which John lived pictured on the cover of this book. The bush itself
was removed in the last few years by county workers who had no idea of its significance to the family members who
once used it as a guide to the location of the old home. Next to where the old holly bush was located is now a street
sign that says Holly Bush Road giving one an approximation of the location.
In a list of baptisms on the Lynches Creek Circuit of the South Carolina Methodist Conference, John’s father,
William Alexander, and stepmother, Anne Parnell Alexander had four of John’s children baptized. The location was
probably Cypress Church. On the list were: Ella, Charlie, Henry, and Mattie Alexander.
ARTICLE about John - A summation of his final birthday party, likely written by his daughter Maggie
FAMILY REUNION HELD - HONOR 87TH BIRTHDAY
On Saturday, August 26, J.W. Alexander reached the ripe age of eighty-seven, and members of his family
gathered at his home, Lone Tree Farm, about four miles from Timmonsville for a pleasant reunion in honor of the
occasion.
Mr. Alexander is one of Florence County's honored Confederate Veterans. He has six children living, and of these
the following were present on this happy occasion: C.E. Alexander, J.L. Alexander, J.K. Alexander, Mrs. G.C. Hatchell
(Mattie); and Miss Maggie Alexander.
Forty-nine grandchildren and great grandchildren were in attendance, with other members of his family, totaling
sixty-five, with about 25 other guests and relatives, making ninety in all. Among them were two preachers, the Rev.
L.W. Shealy of the Marlboro Circuit, and the Rev. J.F. Campbell, now pastor of Epworth.
About one o'clock a bountiful picnic dinner was served in the shade of the trees about the home. The aged
honoree was feeling his best and thoroughly enjoyed the occasion, the good fellowship and the good wishes of his many
relatives and friends. It was a happy day for all, and when leaving they expressed the hope that Mr. Alexander would
see many more happy birthdays.
OBITUARY for John from Florence Morning News - Years ago, many family members wrote their family’s obituaries for
publication in a local newspaper or the Southern Christian Advocate, a less current publication. Maggie L. Alexander,
John’s daughter is believed to have written this obituary.
Taps For Brave Soldier Sound
Funeral Services for John W. Alexander At Timmonsville Today
Special to Morning News:
TIMMONSVILLE, February 14 - Funeral services for John W. Alexander, 87, gallant Confederate veteran who died
Tuesday night at his home a few miles from Timmonsville, will be held Thursday morning 11 o'clock from the Pine Grove
Methodist church conducted by his pastor, the Rev. J.F. Campbell. Interment will follow in the *Thornwell Cemetery
beside the grave of his wife.
Mr. Alexander enlisted in the Confederate army at the age of fifteen years and served throughout the war. He
was a member of Culpepper Camp, U.C.V. of Timmonsville. For thirty years he had been superintendent of the Pine
Grove Methodist Sunday School being assisted the last few years by his son Luther Alexander.
Mr. Alexander was a splendid Christian gentleman and his influence for good has been far reaching. His death,
due to heart trouble from which he had been suffering for some time, brings sorrow to a host of friends.
Surviving are two daughters, Mrs. George Hatchell and Miss Maggie Alexander and four sons; J.L., J.K., C.E.
Alexander all of the Timmonsville section, and H.L. Alexander of Greenville. He also leaves 32 grandchildren, 30 greatgrandchildren and four 2-great-grandchildren. The pallbearers will be six grandsons: Gary Hill, Roy Hatchell, Lee,
Arnold, James, and Earl Alexander.
Footnote: * Thornal
OBITUARY for John from Southern Christian Advocate March 15, 1934
On February 13, 1934, death came into our midst and removed from the home, church and Sunday school one of
the most faithful and beloved members, Bro. John Wesley Alexander, 87 years 5 months and 17 day of age. He was the
son of the late Rev. John William Alexander who died in the year 1903*. His loving wife passed through the gate of
death in 1917, leaving him a widower for the past 17 years.
Brother Alexander gave his heart to God around 45 years ago and had a rich experience until the day came when
he fell asleep. He really did fall asleep. On Friday night preceding his death, realizing that he was soon to pass out, he
called all who were near to his bedside and talked and prayed with them closing with a benediction. He then went into a
state of coma and breathed his last on the following Tuesday night. He served as steward of Pine Grove Methodist
Church for quite a number of years and was superintendent of the Sunday school until the day of his death. He died in
harness for his Lord.
He was a member of the league of Confederacy, having served all four years in the war between the
States. During this war his life was saved by a pocket Testament. A bullet, which perhaps would have pierced his heart,
struck the Testament in his pocket and his life was spared.
He is survived by six children: Charlie Alexander, H.L. Alexander, J. Luther Alexander, Joseph Alexander, Mrs.
G.C. Hatchell, and Miss Maggie Alexander; also 40 grandchildren, 40 great grandchildren, and 3 great great
grandchildren. He is gone but not forgotten. His works do follow him. - J.F. Campbell**
Footnotes: * On the previous obituary 1899 is correct. ** Reverend J.F. Campbell
OBITUARY for Sallie, thought to have been written by daughter Maggie Louise Alexander
SARAH A.M. ALEXANDER - Was born February 16, 1840 and died December 15, 1917. She was married to Mr.
J.W. Alexander February 1, 1866. In early life she united with the Methodist Church at Philadelphia, where she held her
membership until after her marriage. She remained a faithful member of the Methodist Church until after her death.
In earlier life, she was identified with the Sunday School at Newman Swamp as teacher. In her later years, she
was a member of the Missionary Society at Pine Grove for several years, acting as treasurer and did what she could to
make the work a success. Though she was in failing health several months, yet she seldom missed a service from
church. She leaves a husband and six children.
One brother, * C.W. Stewart and one sister, ** Mrs. J.P. Mozingo, are still living.
She realized fully that she was nearing the end of her days. She was seriously ill only a few days.
She expressed herself as ready to go when the call should come.
Footnotes: * Charles Willoby Stewart * Mrs. James Presley Mozingo
TRIBUTE – Written by John Wigfall Ivey of Timmonsville
Deceased
JOHN WESLEY ALEXANDER
An Appreciation
By John W. lvy
Having known Mr. John Wesley Alexander, intimately, for almost half a century, I am pleased to write the following lines in
appreciation of his sterling worth as a man and Christian whose influence for good among men can scarcely be fully estimated.
J is for Justice, in thought, word, and deed,
O is for Oneness, in purpose and in creed,
H is for Honesty, until life shall end,
N is for Nothing, but truth and honor defend.
W is for Worship of our Father above,
E is for Everyone embraced in His love,
S is for Strength of heart, mind, and soul,
L is for Leader to our heavenly goal,
E is for Earnestness in every effort made,
Y is for Yield nothing until right is staid.
A is for All should walk in love's way,
L is for Loyalty, when justice holds sway,
E is for Energy, to fight for the right,
X is for X-ray, giving more light,
A is for Almighty, in whom we should hide,
N is for Never, desert our guide,
D is for Doing, as The Master taught,
E is for Eternal life, that He brought,
R is for Remember, to live as we ought.
United States Federal Census Reference:
1880 - June 25th. Lisbon, Darlington County, South Carolina. John was listed as a farm laborer.

John Alexander, age 32 (head)

Sarah M Alexander, age 36 (wife)

Mary Alexander, age 13 (daughter)

Ella Alexander, age 10 (daughter)

Charles Alexander, age 9 (son)

Henry Alexander, age 8 (son)

Mollie Alexander, age 5 (daughter)

Luther Alexander (1), age 3 (son)

Maggie Alexander, age 1 (daughter)
1900 - June 20th. High Hill, Darlington County, South Carolina.

John W Alexander, age 53 (head)

Sarah A Alexander, age 60 (wife)

Henry L Alexander, age 26 (son)

Maggie L Alexander, age 20 (daughter)

Addie O Alexander, age 17 (daughter)

Joseph K Alexander, age 15 (son)
1910 - April 19th. Ebenezer (rural Timmonsville), Florence County, South Carolina. It was to be the last survey of
his wife, Sallie, who died in 1917. Notable is the recorded age of Sallie, who was older than John Wesley, but showed
up as the same age as him in this survey. John was a farmer.

John W Alexander, age 64 (head)

Sallie M Alexander, age 64 (wife’s age incorrect)

Maggie L Alexander, age 28 (daughter)
1920 - January 5th and 6th. Ebenezer (rural Timmonsville). This terribly erroneous survey was taken in what was
then called Ebenezer Township, Florence County. It was the location of John's Lone Tree Farm on Sallie Hill Road near
Timmonsville. Now days, people think of Ebenezer as part of the west end of Florence near the shopping mall on
Business I-20. The survey listed John as married, although he was a widower, and daughter Maggie Alexander was
listed as his wife. Also, the Hill boys were John's grandchildren, not nephews. However,
they were Maggie's nephews, orphaned sons of Addie Olivia Alexander Hill. Real wife Sallie
died in 1917.

John W Alexander, age 73 (head)

Maggie Alexander, age 38

Carlisle Hill, age 13 (nephew)

Gary Hill, age 11
1930 – April 4th. Dying in 1934, this was John's last census survey. His household in
Timmonsville, Florence County, and the household had diminished to three people, including
him since the last survey. Maggie eventually moved.

John W Alexander, age 83 (head)

Maggie Alexander, age 45 (daughter)

Luther C Hill, age 24 (grandson)
FEATURE – Confederate Private John Wesley Alexander’s Reminiscence
I became interested in this seemingly dictated autobiography, realizing that my great grandfather had a very
interested story to tell, in his own words. I’m sure his schoolteacher daughter Maggie wrote down his story and
somewhat edited it. John would have been around age 86 at the time. He passed away less than two years later at
87. Thanks to, Rebecca Timmons Alexander who gave me a copy of this fascinating story.
It's about John's early life as a member of Cartersville, South Carolina’s Company A, 14th Infantry Regiment,
South Carolina Volunteers, Confederate States of America. In this remembrance you're about to read, John does some
heavy duty name dropping of some of the Company's fiercest and most infamous battles, including the Battle of
Gettysburg, and some of the soldiers with whom he fought.
He was from old Darlington District, and there were other units within the large district, including the one his
brother joined. Back in those days, Cartersville, now in Florence County, was in Darlington District. John was indeed a
fortunate man to have even survived the war, because the North and South combined lost an estimated 623,000
troops. Several of the battles in which he participated have historically been described as slaughter pens. Toward the
end of the war, he spent time in an infamous Union prison camp in Elmira, New York.
In the latter part of his Reminiscence, John stated that as far as he knew, he was the only survivor who had been
a part of Company A. For years, he had been a member of what some have called The League of the Confederacy.
John was a member of the Fellowship of the United Confederate Veterans, Culpeper Camp #774. J.F. Culpeper was the
Commander, and D.H. Traxler was the Adjutant. There were well over a thousand of the Fellowships from all over the
South, until they slowly died out as their members did. The organization had held periodic reunions in various southern
states over the years.
I was born August 26, 1846, in Henry County, Alabama. My parents emigrated from Alabama when I was about
three years old. My mother died when I was about four years old, so I have never known the love of a mother.
In writing this, I wish to relate some of the most impressive experiences of my life as a soldier during my four
years of service in the War Between the States as best I can remember them now.
I was too young to realize what I was getting into when I entered the war. I had a pal, John W. DuBose, who
was older than I. He had enlisted for service, and as I loved him dearly, I could not bear for him to leave me. It was
because of his influence that I volunteered to go to the army, as I was not quite fifteen years of age. My pal and I were
in all the conflicts.
I entered the war in 1861. W.I. Carter of Cartersville was my captain, his company A, 14th South Carolina
Regiment. We were trained for service at a place called Lightwood Knot Springs, near Columbia, South Carolina. I was
in training about three months, served on the coast about Beaufort Island until the second day of May, 1862.
The Northern troops were encamped on Beaufort Island. We had several skirmishes around and near Port Royal
and Beaufort Island. In these skirmishes, very few lives were lost. On the twenty-second day of May, 1862, we got orders
to go to the Northern Army at Richmond, Virginia.
A short while after this we went into hostilities. The comptroller of the Northern Army was General
McClellan. Among those in my company were my pal, John W. DuBose, Sewell W. DuBose, Henry DuBose, George
Scarborough, Marion Large, Charlie and Alexander Stuckey. Alexander Stuckey was an orderly sergeant. He was
wounded at The Battle of the Wilderness. A minnie ball struck him on one side of the head going through it and came
out on the other side. I reported him as dead. He was taken to some hospital and recovered. Sewell DuBose was a
brave soldier. After the war, he married Elizabeth Gwynn Jenkins, and reared a large and intelligent family of
children. Marion Large married a daughter of Sewell DuBose.
At the beginning of the war, my only brother, Abner Alexander, enlisted for service for six months. He fought in
the first Battle of Bull Run, Virginia. Six months he came home and found that I had entered the army. He regretted,
very much, that I had taken this step. I went away while he was at home. My brother re-enlisted and went back to the
same company. Just a few days before they went to Tennessee, I heard that my brother's command was about a mile
from me. I got permission to go to him, and this was the last time I ever saw him. He came a part of the way back
with me. We sat on a chestnut log and he told me that he felt like that we would never see each other again, and told
me, also, where I would find his trunk and other belongings. He was killed at Lookout Mountain, Tennessee. I found his
things, as he told me, his trunk and picture, but his girlfriend refused to part with his jewelry.
The first battle I engaged in was the Battle of Seven Pines. This battle took place along the Chickahominy River,
and was as complete a victory as the Southern Army ever had. We drove twenty-seven miles down the river until we
were under the shelter of their gunboats that lay in the James River. At this time our brigadier general was Maxcy Gregg
of Florence, South Carolina, who was one of the bravest men I ever knew. Later I saw him, after he was killed, being
carried on a stretcher at The Battle of Fredericksburg, Virginia. I do not know how old General Gregg was at the time of
his death, but he looked to be about forty years old. From this time the battles were too numerous for me to remember
the dates.
I fought in the following divisions: I fought under General A.P. Hill, General Maxcy Gregg, Abner Perrin. I was
never wounded bad enough to leave the battlefield, but was knocked down by a ball at Vine Run, Virginia. I had a small
camp Testament in my pocket which I think saved my life. The ball hit me in the region of my heart, doubling the
Testament in the center. I was knocked down, was stunned, but soon got up and took my place in the battle.
At The Battle of Cold Harbor we fought all afternoon until dark. When the battle ceased, I was detailed to go to
the rear and get water for the company. Taking as many canteens as I could carry, I went to a little ravine to get
water. A Union soldier was lying near the ravine. His teeth had been shot out and his jawbone was broken. He made
me understand that he wanted water. I held the canteen to his lips and he drank all he wanted. After this, he made me
understand that he wanted me to carry him to the rear, as we were still in danger. I carried him about three hundred
yards and left him. When I returned to my company, I was sent to help bring the dead. We worked all night until up
into the next day.
I was in the Battle of Gettysburg, which lasted four days and nights. This was the most cruel of all the battles. It
was a slaughter pen. I was a drummer boy at this time, and after three or four rounds of fighting, the bass drummer
and I were detailed to care for the wounded. The Battle of the Wilderness was a thick forest of junipers which were
hewn down by balls like a field of grain. It did not seem that a person could come out the battle alive.
Twice during the war I was dangerously ill. I had typhoid fever, also typhoid pneumonia. One day I was sent to
Richmond, Virginia, a distance of about twelve miles, to drive cattle for beef for the army. On my way back to camp, a
thundercloud arose, and I lay in a wet blanket that night in mud and water. When I awoke the next morning I was very
sick. Two days later, my commander was sent to Fredericksburg, Virginia and I was sent to a hospital in Lynchburg,
Virginia. I had developed typhoid fever. One Sunday morning while convalescing, two of us decided to ask permission
of the doctor to let us take a walk. He agreed, on the condition that we would not eat anything on the trip. We
promised. On our trip we saw a garden of beautiful green collards and asked a colored woman to cook some of them
for us. This she did, and we ate all we wanted with no bad results.
At Malvern Hill I was captured prisoner. From there was sent to Point Lookout, and from there was sent to
Elmira, New York.
This was a very bitter experience. As it was very cold, the prisoners suffered severely from cold and
hunger. Here, I contracted typhoid pneumonia and again, was dangerously ill. When I had about recovered, I got an
exchange payroll. When I left prison they gave me a piece of pickled pork and hard tacks to eat. I would have died
from hunger, but got up with some officers, who shared what they had with me.
I left Elmira, New York the 14th of March 1865, and reached my home on the 27th of March. I came home by
way of Richmond, and came by railroad to Blackstock, South Carolina. The Union Army had torn up the railroad, and I
had to walk the rest of the way, a distance of one hundred and ten miles. When my partner and I reached the Wateree
River, we made an attempt to cross over without the help of the ferryman, and had a narrow escape from
drowning. But the ferryman arrived and carried us safely over.
The first night after reaching Camden, I spent the night with a cousin who sent us a part of the way home the
next morning. Sherman's Raid had passed through this country and had destroyed everything. "Life preserver peas"
were about the only thing that could be had, and the people said that they had the right name.
On arriving home, I heard that my cousin, Edward Alexander, who served in the Western armies, who had been
reported and lamented as dead for three years, had returned home two weeks previous. His funeral had been planned,
and a preacher engaged to preach his funeral on the Sunday following his arrival on Friday night. On this Sunday, this
soldier went to the service and told the preacher he need not bother about preaching his funeral.
I was in a company of one hundred and twelve men, and as far as I know, am the only living one at the present
time. I was never wounded in the war, but soon after I had the misfortune to get my leg broken twice in the same
place. From this accident I have never recovered, but the results have followed me until the present time.
I am now in my 87th year. I have six children living, thirty-nine grandchildren, thirty-two great-grandchildren,
and one great-great grandchild. I am also the only one of my family of the older Alexanders living now.
NOTES on John, his Reminiscence, and fellow soldiers…
John was ranked a Private at the beginning and end of his military service.
General Maxcy Gregg, one of the most famous of the Civil War’s South Carolina Generals, is mentioned in John's
Reminiscence for having been carried off the battlefield at the Battle of Fredericksburg, Virginia. John saw him, and
thought that he was dead. Gregg was shot through the spine on December 11, 1862, and actually died the next day. It
is said that the general’s deafness may have contributed to his demise.
Locations: Point Lookout is in the state of Maryland; Blackstock, South Carolina, which John mentioned in the
Reminiscence, is located about a hundred miles northwest of the Darlington County area in both Chester and Fairfield
counties; John Wesley’s boot camp or camp of instruction was Camp Johnson, also known as Lightwood Knot Springs,
near Interstate 20 and Interstate 77 off Parklane Road adjacent to Columbia, South Carolina in Dentsville near Two
Notch Road. It’s now a high-traffic shopping area not far from the South Carolina Department of Archives and History
and Columbia Mall. There is a historical sign placed next to Parklane Road; Elmira Prison, historically known as The
Death Camp of the North was in Elmira, New York, specifically built for the imprisonment of the Confederate military. It
was chosen because two railroads were close by. During the 15 months the site was used as a prison camp more than
12,100 Confederate soldiers were incarcerated. Of those, nearly 25% (2,963) died from a combination of malnutrition,
continued exposure to harsh winter weather, and disease from the poor sanitary conditions on Foster's Pond combined
with a lack of medical care. The camp's dead were prepared for burial and laid to rest by the sexton, an ex-slave named
John W. Jones, at what is now Woodlawn National Cemetery. At the end of the war, each prisoner was required to take
a loyalty oath and given a train ticket home. The last prisoner left September 27, 1865. It was then closed, demolished,
and converted to farm land.
John stated in his Reminiscence, I volunteered to go to the army, as I was not quite fifteen years of age. His
birth date was August 26, 1846, and his enlistment date was March 12, 1862, putting his enlistment 16 days shy of his
15th birthday.
In his Reminiscence, John mentioned friends and fellow soldiers of his Confederate unit. Among them were men
from the Cypress section of then Darlington District: Sewell Wesley DuBose b. September 7, 1826 d. June 20, 1888 at
age 61 m. December 10, 1848 to Elizabeth Gwynn Jenkins b. May 24, 1833 d. November 9, 1909 at age 76, both Sewell
and Elizabeth are buried at Cypress Cemetery, Lee County; Francis Marion Large b. May 15, 1843 d. December 3, 1874
at age 31 m. Martha Dupre DuBose, a daughter of Sewell Wesley DuBose and Elizabeth Gwynn Jenkins b. (Martha)
September 29, 1849 d. August 21, 1918 at age 68, Marion and Martha are buried at Cypress Cemetery. His grave
marker wasn’t erected until 1962. John Wesley DuBose. This John Wesley was a close friend, a farmer, and a son of
Henry J. DuBose and the former Jane Kelly b. August 14, 1842 d. June 25, 1901 m. August 6, 1865 to Catherine H.
Clements of Lydia, Darlington District b. April 30, 1845 d. September 19, 1926 at age 81. This was the man who
influenced, in one way or another to enter the Civil War. Mr. and Mrs. DuBose are buried at Cypress Cemetery.
Elmira Prison was a prisoner-of-war camp constructed by the Union Army in Elmira, New York, during the Civil
War to house captive Confederates. The site was selected partially due to its proximity to the Erie Railway and the
Northern Central Railway, which crisscrossed in the midst of the city, making it a prime location for a Union Army
training and muster point early in the war. Most of the thirty-acre installation, known as Camp Rathbun, fell into disuse
as the war progressed, but the camp's Barracks #3 were converted into a military prison in the summer of 1864. The
prison camp was in use from July 6, 1864 until the fall of 1865. It was dubbed Hellmira by its inmates.
Elmira Prison, Elmira, New York - The Death Camp of the North
During the fifteen months the site was used as a prisoner camp, more than 12,100 Confederate soldiers were
incarcerated. Of those, nearly twenty-five percent, that’s 2,963 confederates, died from a combination of malnutrition,
continued exposure to harsh winter weather, and disease from the poor sanitary conditions on Foster's Pond, combined
with the lack of medical care. The camp's dead were prepared for burial, and laid to rest by the sexton, an ex-slave
named John W. Jones, at what is now Woodlawn National Cemetery. At the end of the war, each prisoner was required
to take a loyalty oath, and given a train ticket home. The last prisoner left the camp on September 27, 1865. The camp
was then closed, demolished and converted to farm land.
Elmira Prison has been compared to its Southern counterpart, Andersonville Prison in south Georgia due to the
high death rate. However, Elmira’s camp was much better supplied and prepared for prisoners than Andersonville would
have been at the same time, leaving in question why so many men died there.
Photos: Sallie and John Alexander, John Alexander, Elmira Prison
JOSEPH KIRKLAND JOE ALEXANDER, JR. - Parents: Joseph Kirkland Joe Alexander, Sr. and Frances Leitha Fannie Hancock
Born: September 17, 1932 Florence County, South Carolina
Died: Saturday July 9, 2011 McLeod Hospice, Florence, Florence County at age 78
Marriage: * Joseph Rebecca Timmons
Born: February 1, 1932 Sardis, Timmonsville, Florence County, South Carolina
Burial: Joe is buried at Sardis Baptist Church, Sardis, Timmonsville
Joe and Rebecca’s children:

Joseph Kirkland Joey Alexander III

Wayne Timmons Alexander

Wanda Leigh Alexander

Anthony Dale Tony Alexander

Rebecca Faye Becky Alexander
The family members in-general are longtime members of Sardis Baptist Church, Sardis, Timmonsville, and the
church's Baracca Sunday School Class.
Joe was a member of the Woodmen of the World Lodge #245 in the Sardis community, near the church. He and
Rebecca had been married for 61 years, and he was known as Poppy to the grandchildren, some calling him
Grandpoppy.
Although once primarily a tobacco farmer, along with his immediate family, Joe later became a clerk with CSX
Railroad, working there for 37 years, until his retirement.
TRIBUTE – The children recall…
Once you get past the biography of a person, you have an opportunity to capture a glimpse of who the person
really was.
Yes, Joe Alexander was a son, brother, nephew, and uncle on the day he was born, and he became a husband,
father, grandfather, and great grandfather before he died. Between those events he showed those who were close to
him how to live, love, and share.
He was not one for idleness. He had to be on the move. He loved his family and his friends, and wanted them
around him whenever possible. He could patch almost anything with hay baling wire and/or tape.
He was known for his gardening and catering, and he loved to grow things and
cook things. However, his pleasure was in sharing with others. He planted a garden
big enough to ensure that he would be able to share with the community. He
sometimes planted watermelon and cantaloupe just so the kids in the neighborhood
would have some. He spent many
an hour in that garden.
Sometimes he was tilling,
sometimes poisoning, fertilizing,
weeding, or harvesting, and
sometimes he was just admiring
God’s handiwork in that garden,
and spending some quiet time with
his Maker.
He catered, but he was not
a caterer. Being a caterer implies
that he made money doing the
work, but he never factored in enough for labor and transportation
to make a profit. He did love to watch people enjoy the food he
prepared… and, if he didn’t get a compliment, he might solicit one
by asking how it was.
He taught quietly by example, and his children learned by
observation. He was the type of person who, if he couldn’t help
you, there was no way he was going to harm you. He and his
wonderful sense of humor are surely and sorely missed daily. It is
with sincere gratitude that we THANK YOU for being the wonderful
Daddy that you were, and for allowing us to be a part of your life.
OBITUARY for Joe from Morning News July 10, 2011
TIMMONSVILLE - Joseph Kirkland Alexander, Jr. 78, died
Saturday July 9, 2011 at the McLeod Hospice House. Funeral
services will be Monday, July 11, 2011 at 11:00 a.m. at Sardis
Baptist Church. Interment will follow in the church cemetery.
Visitation will be (today) Sunday, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Layton-Anderson Funeral Home. Mr. Alexander was born in
Florence County, the son of the late Joseph K., Sr. and Frances Hancock Alexander. He was a member of Sardis Baptist
Church and the Baracca Sunday School Class. He enjoyed farming for many years. He retired from CSX Railroad as a
railroad clerk with 37 years of service. He was a Member of the Woodmen of the World Lodge #245. "Uncle Joe" as he
was affectionately known in the community and to his family was married to the former Rebecca Timmons for 61 years.
Together they raised a loving family of three (3) sons, Joey (Robin) Alexander, Tony Alexander all of Timmonsville,
Wayne Alexander, Andrews, SC; two (2) daughters, Wanda (Rick) Kelly, Timmonsville, Becky (Dann) Lay, Greenwood,
SC; sister, Mildred Powers, Lexington, formerly of Timmonsville; and known as Poppy to his fourteen (14) grandchildren
and (21) great grandchildren. He is preceded in death by (9) brothers, Clifton, Lee, Kenneth, Belvin, Loren, Willard,
Elbert, B.K. and Marvin, sister, Gladys McGinness Ruther and daughter-in-law, Robin Munn Alexander. Memorials may
be made to Sardis Baptist Church Building Fund, 3129 Sardis Hwy, Timmonsville, SC 29161 or McLeod Hospice, P O Box
100551, Florence, SC 29501. Layton-Anderson Funeral Home, 4210 W. Palmetto Street, Florence is assisting the family
with arrangements.
Footnote: * Correct information provided by Rebecca.
JOSEPH KIRKLAND JOE ALEXANDER, SR. (1) - Parents: John Wesley Alexander and the former Sarah A.M. Sallie Stewart
Born: March 5, 1885 Darlington County, South Carolina in a part that is now Lee County
Died: Friday May 4, 1962 at age Timmonsville, Florence County, South Carolina at age 77
Marriage: October 30, 1904 to Frances Leitha Fannie Hancock
Born: January 9, 1887 Darlington County
Died: Monday November 20, 1961 Florence County at age 74
Burial: Pine Grove UMC, Darlington County near Timmonsville
Joe and Fannie's children:
1.
Jessie Clifton Alexander, Sr. (1906)
2.
Joseph Lee Alexander (1908-1987)
3.
Wilton Kenneth Alexander (1910)
4.
Belvin Ryan Bill Alexander (1913)
5.
Loren Vivian Alexander (1915-1954)
6.
Willard Terry Alexander, Sr. (1918)
7.
Gladys Myrtis Alexander (1921-1969)
8.
William Elbert Alexander (1923-1924)
9.
Barney Kirby B.K. Alexander (1925-1945)
10.
Frances Mildred Alexander (1927-2014)
11.
Marvin Esker Alexander (1929)
12.
Joseph Kirkland Joe Alexander, Jr. (1932)
Fannie Hancock Alexander's parents:
 William Eli Will Hancock b. April 18, 1852 d. March 2, 1917 Effingham,
Florence County
 Olivia Mozelle Bryant, a daughter of William Bryant and Sarah Jordan
Because the town of Timmonsville is located in Florence County,
yet lies just a very short distance from Darlington County, Joe, his
immediate family, and his descendants basically teetered between living
in Florence and
Darlington counties
over the years, but for
the most part lived in
Florence County in and around Timmonsville. They considered that
their home area because Joe’s father John Wesley Alexander lived on
Lone Tree Farm just inside of the Florence County line in the Lake
Swamp community next to part of the swamp. The boundary lines
changed around the turn of the century when a part of Darlington
County was then taken to make up part of Florence County, so
Alexanders of the same line lived in both Florence and Darlington
counties. Before the change, John W. Alexander lived in Darlington
County, even though it was the same property.
Joe and Fannie last resided together in the Sardis Community
outside of Timmonsville on Cartersville Highway, and attended Sardis
Baptist Church. After Fannie’s passing, and before Joe passing a few
months later, Joe lived with son Lee’s family in rural Timmonsville,
Florence County.
Earlier in life, Joe attended the original Pine Grove Methodist
Church where his father John was Superintendent of the Sunday
School. At last view, the building was still standing, and being used.
As a note of interest, one of Joe's nephews, the late William
Frank Alexander once told me that he and others used to refer to his
Uncle Joe as Josephus (pronounced jo-'see-fus, rhyming with Hank
Williams, Junior’s Bosephus nickname.
Years ago, I asked my mother why her mother and father had the family attending a Baptist church, instead of a
Methodist, as that was the denomination in which her father was raised. She said there was a Baptist Church closer to
where they lived, and within walking distance. That may have been in the Philadelphia community of Darlington County.
Joe registered at age 33 for the World War I draft on September 12, 1918 at the Florence County board. They
resided on Route 4 in Timmonsville. He was described as having blue eyes, brown hair, and medium in height and build,
his occupation was farming.
Fannie suffered a broken hip in the few days before her passing, and as I understand it, Joe then went to live
with son Lee and daughter-in-law Edith in rural Timmonsville. He passed away while sitting up against a water pump
house at granddaughter Mary Alexander Jensen’s home, located just across the road.
One of Joe's obituaries states that he was born in Lee County, South Carolina in 1888, however Lee did not
officially become a county until 1902 when it was fashioned out of the old Darlington County. The exact location of his
birth is not known by this research, because not many people had a birth certificate in those days, and most births took
place at home. I'm figuring that his birth took place in Darlington County, in a part that is now Lee, probably around the
area of the Cypress community, not too far from Lamar.
OBITUARY for Joe from the Florence Morning News May 5, 1962
Joe K. Alexander
TIMMONSVILLE - Joe K. Alexander, 77, died of a heart attack Friday at the home of his son, Lee Alexander.
Surviving are seven sons, Clifton, Lee, Joe Jr. and Willard Alexander all of Timmonsville, Belvin and Marvin of
Florence, and Kenneth Alexander of Effingham; two daughters, Mrs. Edgar Powers of Timmonsville and Mrs. Jacob
Ruther of Columbus, Ohio; and one sister, Miss Maggie Alexander of Timmonsville.
Funeral arrangements will be announced by Layton-Perry Funeral Home.
OBITUARY for Joe from the Florence Morning News, probably Sunday, May 6, 1962 as a follow-up obituary to include the
funeral arrangements
TIMMONSVILLE - Funeral services for Joe K. Alexander, 77, who died Friday will be conducted at 3 p.m. Sunday
at Sardis Baptist Church by Rev. Clyde Fox. Burial will be in Pine Grove Cemetery.
Pallbearers will be Glenn Hatchell, Frank Alexander, Ira Alexander, James
Alexander, Arnold Alexander, Douglas Ward, Jim Ward, and Otto Ward.
Honorary pallbearers will be members of Baracca Sunday School Class of
Sardis Baptist Church.
OBITUARY for Joe from The State Columbia, South Carolina
TIMMONSVILLE - Funeral services for Joe K. Alexander, Sr., 77, who died
of a heart attack Friday, will be conducted at 3 p.m. Sunday afternoon from
Sardis Baptist Church by the Rev. Clyde Sparks. Burial will be in the Pine Grove
Cemetery.
Mr. Alexander was born in Lee County, March 5, 1885, the son of John
Wesley and Sallie Stewart Alexander. His wife, Fannie Hancock Alexander, died
in November, 1961.
Surviving are seven sons, Clifton, Lee, Joe Jr., and Willard Alexander, all
of Timmonsville, Belvin and Marvin Alexander of Florence, and Kenneth
Alexander of Effingham; two daughters, Mrs. Edgar (Mildred) Powers of
Timmonsville, and Mrs. Jacob (Gladys) Ruther of Columbus, Ohio; one sister,
Miss Maggie Alexander of Timmonsville; 34 grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and a number of nieces and
nephews.
OBITUARY for Fannie from The State Columbia, South Carolina
TIMMONSVILLE - Mrs. Fannie Hancock Alexander, 74, wife of Joseph K. Alexander, Sr., Route 3, Timmonsville,
died Monday night.
She was born in Darlington County, the daughter of the late William E. and Olivia Bryant Hancock. She was a
member of Sardis Baptist Church.
Surviving are her husband, seven sons, Jesse Clifton Alexander, Joseph Lee, Willard T. and Joe K., Jr., of
Timmonsville, Belvin R., and Marvin E. of Florence and Kenneth Alexander of Effingham; two daughters, Mrs. Edgar
Powers of Timmonsville and Mrs. Jacob Ruther of Columbus, Ohio; one sister, Mrs. Laura Ward of Timmonsville; 34
grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held at 3 p.m. Wednesday from Sardis Baptist Church, with burial in the Pine Grove
Cemetery near Timmonsville.
OBITUARY/ARTICLE for Fannie from a Sardis Baptist Church-related committee
It is with cherished memories and deep appreciation for a devoted Christian life that the members of Sardis
Baptist Church, Florence Association, pay tribute to Mrs. Fannie Hancock Alexander, who passed away in November at
the age of 74.
Her going has left a sadness in the hearts of those who knew her and a vacancy in her home, church, and
community.
Her personal faith and trust in God made her an inspiration to her friends and loved ones. She worked with
untiring efforts to help others.
She always had a warm welcome for those who visited her, giving them inspiration and encouragement. Her
many acts of kindness and love and her friendly spirit will ever be remembered.
We extend our deepest sympathy to her husband and children and pray they may find the love of God sufficient
for their every need. – Committee
United States Federal Census Reference:
1910 - April 28th. Lone Tree Farm, Timmonsville, Florence County, South Carolina. In this census, Joe's father is
listed as having been born in South Carolina, yet he was born in Henry County, Alabama.

Joseph C Alexander, age 25 (head)

Fannie L Alexander, age 23 (wife)

Jessie C Alexander, age 3 (Clifton)

Joseph L Alexander, age 2 (Lee)
1920 - January 5th and 6th. Lone Tree Farm, Timmonsville, Florence County. Joe and family were living on Joe's
father's land, as were his father, sister Maggie Louise Alexander, a couple of Joe's nephews, and his brother Charlie's
family. Joe’s and brother Charlie’s families were living in dwellings separate from his father’s, and Maggie lived in her
father’s house, the main house. The survey indicated that Joe could read and write. In that census, the Dewey in the
survey was Willard Terry Alexander, Sr. The name Terry was a mistake made by the government in Franklin Delano
Roosevelt’s Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), and Willard went with it, even naming his son Willard Terry Alexander, Jr.,
Terry. Willard was originally Willard Dewey Alexander.

Joseph K Alexander, age 35 (head)

Fannie L Alexander, age 33 (wife)

Jessie Alexander, age 14 (Clifton)

Joseph Alexander, age 11 (Lee)

Kenneth Alexander, age 9 (son)

Ryan Alexander, age 6 (Belvin)

Vivien L Alexander, age 4 (Loren)

Dewey Alexander, age 1 year 6 months (Willard)
1930 - April 14th and 15th. (Lone Tree Farm) Timmonsville, Florence County.

Joseph K Alexander, age 45 (head)

Fannie L Alexander, age 43 (wife)

Joseph L Alexander, age 21 (son)

Wilton K Alexander, age 19 (son-Kenneth)

Vivian Alexander, age 16 (son-Loren)

Willard D Alexander, age 12 (son)

Myrtle G Alexander, age 10 (daughter-Gladys)

Barney K Alexander, age 6 (B.K.)

Fannie M Alexander, age 3 years 5 months (Mildred)

Marvin E Alexander, age 4 months (son)
Photos: Fannie sitting on her porch in Sardis, Fannie in her living room in Sardis with daughters Gladys (left) and Mildred, and
Joe sitting on what seems to be a buggy seat in a sandbox.
JOSEPH LEE ALEXANDER - Parents: Joseph Kirkland Joe Alexander, Sr. and the former Frances Leitha Fannie Hancock
Born: November 4, 1908 Darlington County, South Carolina
Died: February 21, 1987 at age 78 McLeod Regional Medical Center, Florence, Florence County
Marriage: September 3, 1932 Florence County to Edith Elizabeth Langston
Born: May 5, 1905 Florence County
Died: October 18, 1991 Florence, Florence County at age 86
Burial: Sparrow Swamp Baptist Church, Timmonsville, Florence County
Lee and Edith’s only child:

Mary Frances Alexander
Edith's parents:

Joseph Ervin Joe Langston, a farmer b. August 3, 1877 Florence County d. cancer June 12, 1950 at age
72. In his World War I Draft Registration, Joe Langston was described as having brown eyes and black
hair.
Mary Adeline Addie Anderson b. August 5, 1879 d. August 13, 1969 at age 90. Both are buried at
Sparrow Swamp Baptist Church. Joe was buried on June 13th, 1950. Inscription: THROUGH ETERNITY
WE’LL NEVER FORGET.
Although Edith's birth date is May 5th, according to her tombstone, the Social Security Death Index lists her birth
date as the 7th.
Lee and Edith grew tobacco, cotton, corn, soybeans, wheat, hot peppers, sweet potatoes, and peanuts. Late in
the 1960s, they began raising chickens for the makers of Campbell Soup of Sumter, South Carolina.
Lee was elected Deacon at his church in 1934, and served as Sunday School Superintendent, Training Union
Director, Sunday School teacher, and on all the church committees at one time or another. He was honored with the
title Lifetime Deacon and Ex-Officio Member by the Congregation. He was a Master Mason who served as Worshipful
Master of Oak Grove Masonic Lodge 378, and was chosen as Mr. Woodmen at Cedar, Woodmen of the World Camp 245
at Sardis, near Timmonsville.
In 1972, Lee was named Campbell Soup Broiler Grower of the Year.
He was a Master Mason at Benton Lodge #26 and Woodmen of the World member.
Edith and Lee were active members of Sparrow Swamp Baptist Church, and Edith attended the adult ladies'
Sunday School class, was a member of the Sunshine Club, the Elim Joy Club, the Home and Garden Club, plus she sang
alto in the choir.
TRIBUTE - Lee’s daughter Mary once wrote…

Lee Alexander and Edith Langston married in 1932 at a time when the farm community was still in economic
depression. They lived with Ellison and Emma Joyner the first few months
of marriage, later moving to a house on John Carraway's farm. There, Lee's
brother Belvin and Lilly Bell Washington lived with them. It also was there
that their only child, Mary Frances, was born. In 1937 the family moved to
the Old Charlie Langston Place on Hill Road near Sansbury Crossroads. Lee
bought the farm
and they lived there
for the rest of their
lives. Remember
when chickens were
turned loose in the
yard and gardens
were fenced in?
That's the way it
was. Farm families
were self-sufficient.
Corn was ground for
grits and cornmeal;
wheat was ground for flour (stored at a Darlington mill); sugar
cane was made into syrup at a cane mill that John Carraway and Lee owned. Going to mill was a fun trip taken
often. Every family had a milk cow. Animals were grown for food and men hunted and families ate the game. Everyone
worked hard on a small farm. During tobacco season, families swapped help with neighbors. Enough vegetables were
canned, potatoes banked, onions dried, and wood cut to last until the next spring. It was a good life! Time and
progress brought about mechanized farming, chickens in 380-foot enclosed chicken houses, freezers, gas and electric
heat, clothes dryers, television, microwaves and a whole different way of life. The progressive changes were good as
well. Lee and Edith celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary plus four more together.
Lee was a dedicated and faithful member of Sparrow Swamp Baptist Church. He was elected Deacon in 1934
and served as Sunday School Superintendent, Training Union Director, Sunday School teacher, and on all the church
committees at one time or another. He was honored with the title Lifetime Deacon and Ex-officio Member by the
Congregation. This meant that he could represent the church anytime anywhere and attend any meeting. He served as
Worshipful Master of Oak Grove Masonic Lodge 378; was chosen as Mr. Woodmen at Cedar, Woodmen of the World
Camp 245 at Sardis. Lee was a people person and loved to attend meetings. He loved people and people loved
him. He, never in his life, met a stranger. Family and friends were drawn to him for advice, counseling, encouragement,
spiritual guidance, or just to talk.
Lee died on February 21, 1987 following a long struggle with progressive renal failure. His funeral was truly a
home-going under umbrellas in the chilly wind and rain. His pastor, Pat Childress, a much-loved former pastor, Richard
Moyers, family, and scores of caring friends paid tribute to a dedicated Christian man.
OBITUARY for Lee from Florence Morning News February 22, 1987
TIMMONSVILLE - J. Lee Alexander, 78, died Saturday.
Born in Darlington County, he was a son of the late Joseph Kirkland and Fannie Hancock Alexander. He was a
retired farmer, was a member of Sparrow Swamp Baptist Church and the adult men's Sunday school class, and was a
deacon. He was past master of the Oak Grove Masonic Lodge, * A.F.M., and a member of Woodmen of the World Camp
No. 245.
Surviving are his widow, Mrs. Edith Langston
Alexander; a daughter, Mrs. Dale (Mary) Jensen of
Timmonsville; brothers, Willard and Joe Alexander of
Timmonsville and Belvin Alexander of Florence; a sister, Mrs.
Edgar (Mildred) Powers of Timmonsville; and grandchildren.
Services will be held at 4 p.m. today at Sparrow
Swamp Baptist Church.
Memorials may be made to Sparrow Swamp Baptist
Church or the Timmonsville Rescue Squad.
Layton-Perry Funeral Home is in charge.
Footnote: * Masons are known as Free and Accepted Masons
and/or F & AM (Free and Accepted Masons)
OBITUARY for Edith from Florence Morning News October
20, 1991
TIMMONSVILLE - Mrs. Edith Langston Alexander, 86,
died Friday, Oct 18, 1991 in a Florence Hospital.
She was born in Florence County, a daughter of the late Joseph Ervin and Mary Adeline Anderson Langston. She
was the widow of Lee Alexander. She was a member of Sparrow Swamp Baptist Church and the adult ladies' Sunday
School class. She was a member of the Sunshine Club, the Elim Joy Club and the Home and Garden Club.
Surviving are a daughter, Mrs. Dale (Mary) Jensen of Timmonsville; a brother, Herbert Langston of Timmonsville;
two sisters, Miss Nellie Langston and Mrs. Ellie Mae Wiggins, both of Timmonsville; a grandson, Michael A. Jensen of
Timmonsville; a granddaughter, Mrs. Karen Jensen Kirby of North Augusta; and three grandchildren.
Funeral services will be 4 p.m. today, Oct 20, 1991, in Sparrow Swamp Baptist Church.
Burial will be in the church cemetery, directed by Layton-Perry Funeral Home.
United States Federal Census Reference:
1940 - May 15th through the 20th. Effingham, Florence County, South Carolina. This was the first census
recorded in Lee and Edith’s marriage, and the last one that’s been released at this writing. The family was living in the
same rental housing that they had lived in on April 1, 1935. Lee, Edith, and daughter Mary were living next door to the
parents of his younger brother Willard’s wife, the former Nobia Elizabeth Stricklen. The survey stated Lee was a farmer,
had completed the 8th grade in school, and was working on his own account.

J Lee Alexander, age 31 (head)

Edith Alexander, age 33 (wife)

Mary Frances Alexander, age 5 (daughter)
JULIA LOUISE ALEXANDER (JORDAN) - Parents: John Luther Alexander, Sr. (1) and the former Nettie Hatchell
Born: August 5, 1906
Died: June 27, 1973 at age 66
Marriage: Herbert Lee Jordan
Born: April 7, 1901
Died: January 19, 1986
Burial: Lake Swamp Baptist Church, Darlington County, South Carolina near their seemingly unnamed infants, and
near Timmonsville.
Julia and Herbert's children:

Infant son b. and d. September 29, 1938

Infant son b. and d. October 15, 1940
LELAND S. ALEXANDER - Parents: Henry Lee Alexander and the former Laura M. Raines
Born: March 3, 1921
Died: May 8, 1974 at age 53
Marriage: Helen W. (nee?)
Born: About 1821
Burial: Woodlawn Memorial Park, Wade Hampton Boulevard, Greenville, South Carolina, Section W. A photo of
Leland's grave marker placed on his Memorial on the Internet site Find A Grave shows that at the time the photo was
taken, Helen had not been buried there.
At the time of brother Carl’s obituary in 1961, Leland was living in Greenville. Leland’s World War II Army
Enlistment record states his Term of Enlistment was for the duration of the War or other emergency, plus six months,
subject to the discretion of the President or otherwise according to law. The date was June 28, 1944. The record
indicated Leland had a grammar school education, and his occupation was semi-skilled chauffeurs and drivers, bus, taxi,
truck, and tractor. Pvt. Alexander was married at the time of enlistment at Fort Bragg.
LENA MARIAN ALEXANDER (JERNIGAN) (NIVENS) - Parents: John Luther Alexander, Sr. (1) and the former Nettie Hatchell
Born: August 29, 1901 Darlington County, South Carolina
Died: November 27, 1967 at age 66 of heart problems at Charlotte Memorial Hospital, Charlotte, Mecklenburg
County, North Carolina
Marriage 1: After June 5, 1917 to John Quincy Jernigan
Born: April 9, 1892 South Carolina
Died: March 1965 (Social Security Death Index)
Marriage 2: Eldred Thomas Nivens
Born: October 23, 1903 Mecklenburg County
Died: March 19, 1988 Charlotte at age 84, and is listed on a North Carolina death index as widowed, although he
apparently remarried to an Effie (nee?) Nivens whom he divorced August 25, 1975 in Mecklenburg County. His name
appears on a scant birth record in Mecklenburg County as the father of Betty Jean Nivens, and the mother is listed only
as “Vandenburg”. He was living in his parents’ home in Charlotte during the U.S. Census survey in 1930 as the eldest of
his siblings living there. He was listed as 26 at the time of the April 14th enumeration. In the 1920 survey he was listed
as 16, and lived with his parents and younger siblings in Steel Creek, Mecklenburg County.
Burial: Sharon Memorial Park, Charlotte, placed there the day after her death, November 28, 1967, arrangements
by McEwen Funeral Home, Charlotte. I don't know where Mr. Nivens is entombed, other than North Carolina. First
husband John Quincy Jernigan is said to be buried at Wesley Chapel United Methodist Church, Lydia, Darlington County.
John's father:

Quincy A. Jernigan, a Timmonsville farmer b. March 1856 Florence County d. Influenza (onset
January 1st 1940), coupled with hypertension 2 to 3 years previous on January 15, 1940 Florence
County at age 84, burial on January 16, 1940 Byrd Cemetery, Timmonsville, Florence County. He was
married at the time of his death to Effie Flowers.
John’s paternal grandfather:

James H. Jernigan

Adeline Kirby
Eldred’s parents:

Thomas L. Nivens, b. South Carolina

Bessie Lee Brown b. South Carolina
Lena and John Jernigan’s one known children of, reportedly, at least four:

Mamie Jernigan b. August or September of 1918 South Carolina. She was age 1 year and 4 months
in the 1920 census.
Lena and Eldred Nivens known child:

Frances Geraldine Nivens b. August 8, 1942 d. June 21, 2000 m. a Mr. Moser, Geraldine was buried at
Sharon Memorial Park, Charlotte, Mecklenburg County.
John Jernigan registered for the World War I Draft June 5, 1917 in Darlington County at age 25. He was living on
Route 2, Lamar, Darlington County. He was single, self-employed as a farmer, and it appears he personally filled out
and signed his registration card. He was described as medium height and build with gray eyes and brown hair.
Lena next married Mr. Nivens sometime before April 1st, 1935. At Lena's passing, she had been living at 4928
York Road in Charlotte. She was as an assistant in a meat market, the family business.
Eldred's name has also been seen as Eldridge, but on most records I’ve seen it as Eldred.
He registered for
World War II service in Charlotte at age 39, giving his address as Route 3, Charlotte. The Nivens did not have a
telephone, and were apparently self-employed in wholesale meats. He signed the card, and the date appears to have
been February 16, 1942. He was described as 5’ 10”, 170 lbs., brown hair, blue eyes, and ruddy complexion.
United States Federal Census Reference:
1920 - January 22nd and 25th. Indian Branch, School District 23, Darlington County. They were listed as renting,
living very near John’s father, or on his property. There were other Jernigans on the survey next to John and Lena’s
enumeration. The surveyor put down High Hill as the location of the home, but scratched it out. It may have been a
mistake, but he or she may not have known the area. The next survey has John in High Hill.

John Jernigan, age 28 (head)

Lena Jernigan, age 18 (wife)

Mamie Jernigan, age 1 year and 4 months (daughter)
1930 - April 4th. High Hill, Anderson (School District), Darlington County. Mattie Alexander Hatchell’s son, and
Sadie C. Alexander Hatchell’s husband Roy D. Hatchell was the enumerator for this survey. All of the new children since
the last survey were born in South Carolina. Lena was not listed in this survey, yet John was listed as married.

John Q Jernigan, age 37 (head)

Maimie Jernigan, age 11 (daughter)

Thomas Jernigan, age 9 (son)

Cathleen Jernigan, age 7 (daughter)

Melvin Jernigan, age 5 (son)
1940 - April 25th. York Road, Berryhill township, Chadwick-Hoskins, Mecklenburg County. He and Lena were also
living there on April 1st, 1935. He had a 4th grade education, and they were renting their home.

Eldred Nivens, age 37 (head)

Lena A. Nivens, age 36 (wife)
LEWIS R. ALEXANDER - Parents: Henry Lee Alexander and the former Laura M. Raines
Born: About 1907
Burial: Woodlawn Cemetery, Greenville, Greenville County, South Carolina. He and a wife are buried there.
LOREN VIVIAN ALEXANDER - Parents: Joseph Kirkland Joe Alexander, Sr. and Frances Leitha Fannie Hancock
Born: September 18, 1915 South Carolina
Died: January 7, 1954 at age 38 Florence, Florence County, South Carolina
Marriage: September 29, 1934 in Timmonsville, Florence County to Eunice Lee
Born: October 1, 1914 Florence County
Died: November 18, 1978 Florence County
Burial: Sparrow Swamp Baptist Church, Timmonsville, as well as their two infants. Burial information for David
has not yet been located.
Loren and Eunice’s children:

Lurie Allen Alexander b. August 16, 1935 South Carolina d. February 5, 1936 South Carolina, burial at
Sparrow Swamp Baptist Church

Evelyn Gayle Alexander b. January 15, 1938 d. March 5, 1938 Florence County, burial at Sparrow
Swamp Baptist Church
 James David Alexander b. August 6, 1939 Florence County d. September 28,
2008 Ridgeway, Fairfield County, South Carolina
Eunice Lee Alexander's parents:
 James Madison Lee (2) b. April 18, 1886 (according to his 1918 WWI Draft
Registration) South Carolina d. June 13, 1956 South Carolina m. about 1912
 Mittie Ima Lee b. February 12, 1884 Florence County d. May 13, 1915 at age
31, only a few months after Eunice’s birth on October 1, 1914. The Lees were
farmers. Mittie is buried at Camp Branch Original Free Will Baptist Church, Lake
City, South Carolina. Madison and his second wife are buried at Bethel Baptist
Church, Olanta, Florence County, U.S. Highway 301, south of Florence.
Eunice's grandparents:
 Washington Kelly Lee b. July 9, 1859 d. April 18, 1904

Minnie (nee?) b. April 28, 1858 South Carolina d. August 9, 1935 South Carolina. Washington is buried
at McClam I (1) Cemetery, U.S. Highway 378, Florence County adjacent to Williamsburg County, South
Carolina, and Minnie is buried at Bethel Baptist Church, U.S. Highway 301, Olanta, Florence County
Eunice's great grandparents:

James Madison Lee (1) b. March 10, 1827 d. August 29, 1886

Jemima McClam b. March 30, 1841 d. January 5, 1920, burial at Lee Cemetery, Scranton, Florence
County, South Carolina Highway 541, Salem Road, between Olanta and Coward.
Eunice’s known siblings:

Hubert John Hubie Lee b. June 27, 1907 South Carolina d. August 14, 1960 South Carolina at age 53 m.
Addie Mae Langston b. May 11 1910 South Carolina d. November 30, 1999 South Carolina at age 89,
burial at Bethel Baptist Church

Kelly Joseph Lee b. 1909 d. 1876 at about age 67 Mars Bluff, Florence County m. Cecil Mae Fraley b.
April 10, 1907 South Carolina d. January 24, 1985 Florence County at age 77, burial at Liberty Chapel
United Methodist Church, Florence County

Ernest Lee b. July 27, 1911 Scranton d. December 7, 1974 Florence m. Emma Lee b. October 2, 1914 d.
February 2, 1988 at age 73, burial at Elim Baptist Church, Florence County
The entire immediate family is deceased: Loren; Eunice; the two infants; and David.
According to members of his siblings, Loren's death was caused by a dangerously incorrect medication for an
illness, and died from a reaction.
In Loren and children in the picture above, that’s little brother Willard on the left, and sister Gladys in the middle.
The other is that of Eunice and Loren.
OBITUARY (after the burial) for Loren Florence Morning News
Saturday, January 9, 1954
TIMMONSVILLE, Jan. 8 - V. Loren Alexander, 38, died at
Charleston Hospital early Thursday following a lingering illness.
Funeral services were held from Sparrow Swamp Baptist
Church at 3 p.m. today with the Rev. Oswald Smith officiating
assisted by the Rev. M.B. Gunter, the Rev. Walter Jernigan and
the Rev. M.R. Galloway. Burial was in the church cemetery.
Surviving are his wife, Eunice Lee Alexander; one son
David Alexander of the home, his parents, Mr. and Mrs. J.K.
Alexander Sr. of Effingham; two sisters, Mrs. Jake Ruther of
Columbus, Ohio (living excluded from this obituary) seven
brothers, Clifton, Lee, Kenneth, Willis (Willard) and Joe
Alexander Jr., all of Timmonsville, Marvin and Belvin Alexander of Florence.
ARTICLE from Eunice Florence Morning News Sunday, January 24, 1954. The same article appeared in the same
newspaper again on Tuesday, January 26, 1954.
CARD OF THANKS
We wish to express our sincere appreciation for the many kindnesses and sympathy shown us during the illness
and at the death of our loved one. Mrs. Loren Alexander and Son David.
Photos: Loren with Eunice, Loren with siblings Willard and Gladys
MAGGIE LOUISE ALEXANDER - Parents: John Wesley Alexander and the former Sarah A.M. Sallie Stewart
Born: November 25, 1879 Lisbon, Darlington County, South Carolina
Died: August 7, 1965 at age 85
Marriage: Engaged, yet never married
Burial: Pine Grove United Methodist Church, Darlington County near Timmonsville
Maggie, a schoolteacher, basically served as the Alexander family historian for this line. Paying most of her
attention to her father, John Wesley Alexander, and grandfather, Rev. John William Reese Alexander, she apparently
wanted to make sure that the Alexander family's information, photos, and documents that she had accumulated would
make their way into the Darlington County Historical Commission in Darlington for perpetual care. According to their
Historian, the late Horace Fraser Rudisill, he had interviewed her a few times about the Alexander family before he
helped organize the DCHC, and became active with it. Later, Maggie turned over all of her genealogy-related belongings
to the commission for safekeeping. Mr. Rudisill told me that he separated the items into categorical files in the filing
cabinets on the second floor at their building at 14 Hewitt Street, just off of the Square in the city of Darlington. He
once showed me those files, and Alexander photos that were given to the Commission by Maggie.
I personally only remember my mother’s Aunt Maggie from family reunions and social events during my
childhood, but those who I have asked about her said that she was an extremely nice, intelligent, and all-around good
woman.
After her mother Sallie died in 1917, the 1920 United States Federal Census erroneously listed her as father John
Wesley Alexander's wife, not his daughter. She was around thirty-seven years younger than her dad, so as they say go
figure.
She was a real take charge sort of person who wrote obituaries for the family, and wrote down and edited what
her father told her about his life, in 1932. She labeled it his Reminiscence. John was about 86 at the time, was already
having heart problems, and was the only known member of approximately one hundred and twenty men originally in
Company A, 14th Infantry Regiment, South Carolina Volunteers, Confederate States of America, organized out of
Carterville in old Darlington District, now just a very sleepy community in Florence County just west of Timmonsville,
basically just a crossroads. His Reminiscence mostly covered the highlights of his stint as a Confederate Private during
the War Between the States, and a little about his family and his life. The Reminiscence is located in John Wesley
Alexander biography in this section.
With some help from relatives, Maggie took care of the day-to-day running of their household after her mother had
passed in 1917.
As Maggie had writing skills, she wrote a typescript entitled History of Pine Grove Church which I’ve never seen, but
ran across it in a bibliography at the South Carolina Department of Archives and History. The bibliography is entitled
Local and Family History in South Carolina by Cote, Page 122. The typescript, A History of Pine Grove Church (as I
remember, that was the name) was reportedly in the possession of the Darlington County Historical Commission. I've
never asked to see it, but I'm sure it would be interesting reading because some of the Alexanders were very active
within that church. As an example, John Wesley Alexander was Sunday School Superintendent, and Maggie's brother,
John Luther Alexander, Sr. (1) was the assistant to his father. The church folks know as Pine Grove United Methodist
Church today, is located on South Carolina Highway 340 at the location of the old Thornal Cemetery, and the original
church, Pine Grove Methodist, was still standing, and in use the last time I was by there.
OBITUARY for Maggie - Publication not known by this research
DARLINGTON – Miss Maggie Louise Alexander, 85, of the Pine Grove Community
died Saturday morning at the residence after an illness of several months.
Funeral services will be conducted at 3 p.m. Sunday in Pine Grove Methodist
Church by Rev. Kenneth Bobo. Burial, directed by Kistler’s Funeral Home, will be in the
church cemetery.
Pallbearers will be Howard Lee Jordan, Otto Davis, Charles Ham, Olin DuBose,
Henry Wallace and Earl Wallace.
Miss Alexander was born in Darlington County, a daughter of the late John Wesley
Alexander and Sallie Stewart Alexander. She had made her home with her sister-in-law,
Mrs. Bertha Alexander of the Pine Grove Community, for the past 28 years.
She was a member of the Pine Grove Methodist Church where she taught Sunday
School for 64 years, 45 of them in the primary children’s classes.
Several nieces and nephews survive.
It was Miss Alexander’s request that all former Sunday School pupils attending the funeral wear a flower.
The body will be at the funeral home until one hour before services. Friends may call at the residence of Mr.
and Mrs. Robert White Jr. of the Pine Grove Community.
ARTICLE - About Maggie Alexander and sister-in-law Bertha Lechner Alexander, widow of John Luther Alexander, Sr. (1)
Florence Morning News March 17, 1958
BERTHA AND MAGGIE ALEXANDER HAVE LIVED TOGETHER 20 YEARS
by Bess Truman
They have lived together in harmony for 20 years.
Perhaps it is because there is no husband to complicate matters. Mrs. Bertha Alexander lost her husband three
years ago; Miss Maggie Alexander never had one - but the reason comes later.
Anyway, I got somewhat confused when I was sent to (I thought) Mrs. Alexander's to get her ‘This is my life’,
only to be met at the door by Miss Alexander, who told me there was a Miss and Mrs. Alexander living there. Which did
I want to see? Well, I knew the one I wanted to see was 81 years old and Miss Alexander not looking that old, I
decided, it must be Mrs. Alexander - only to find out later it was Miss Alexander I had been sent to see.
So, although I have written a little about Mrs. Bertha Alexander in a previous article, the situation is so unusual, I
thought I would write them up together.
Their fathers fought on opposing sides in the civil war. Miss Maggie's father, John Wesley Alexander, joined the
Confederate Army at 16 and served four years, being taken prisoner twice.
Bertha's father was a Yankee, who liked the South, and he married the girl he met while driving a group of
horses from the North to sell. Bertha's mother's first husband was killed by jumping off the train in his anxiety to get
home quickly, little knowing his wife would marry a Yankee after his death.
Maggie's father came home penniless, as so many others, having lost all his Confederate money and his slaves.
He would have starved if an officer, who was not quite so unfortunate, had not fed him until he got on his feet.
Evidently it did not take long for this, as he married a Miss Sallie Stewart a year later, * son (daughter) of Abel S.
Stewart. They reared four boys and four girls. John W. Alexander lived near Newman Swamp Church two miles north of
Lamar.
He stayed there 12 years later moving to the Lake Swamp Community near the Pine Grove Church in which
community Maggie has lived and taught Sunday School for 62 years.
Now comes the most important and self-sacrificing part of Maggie's life.
Due to the death of her sister, Mrs. Limuel Hill of near Timmonsville, leaving four children, the oldest four, the
youngest a tiny baby, Maggie gave up all thought of marrying - even turning down her fiancé, and devoted her life to
rearing these four children of her sisters, all of them turning out fine, being very devoted to their aunt and foster
mother.
Well, all of her nieces and nephews (seeming like her own children to her and to them), Bertha's husband having
just died and her last daughter having married, she invited Maggie to come live with her, after being alone for only two
weeks.
And live together in love and harmony, they have for twenty years. Maggie’s apartment is in the front, Bertha's
in the back. They even cook separately as if you remember my telling you, Bertha lives mostly on the sprouts of young
vegetables, while Maggie eats normally.
And I think they are wise, as it is a well-known fact there is no kitchen big enough for two women. But evidently
this is the exception that proves the rule.
Each prepares her own supper - in the winter before dark, as they both stay at night with Miss Alexander's niece,
Mrs. White, whose home is a short distance away.
United States Federal Census Reference:
1940 - May 17th. Anderson (School District), Darlington County. Maggie’s father had passed on, and she began
living with her brother, John Luther Alexander, Sr. (1) and his 2nd wife Bertha Rosalie Lechner. She had been living
there April 1, 1935, too. Maggie was not listed as a schoolteacher, yet Luther, who ran a country store at some point,
was listed as a farmer on this count.

J Luther Alexander, age 62 (head)

Bertha Alexander, age 62 (wife)

Maggie Alexander, age 58 (sister)
Photo: Bertha (left) and Maggie, taken from the newspaper article. Footnote: * daughter is correct, not son.
MARGARET LEOLA ALEXANDER (WATFORD) - Parents: Charles Engram Charlie Alexander and Ida Eula Jeffords
Born: May 14, 1924
Died: December 28, 2007 at age 83
Marriage: Howard Melvin Watford b. 1922 d. 1970 at about age 48
Burial: Darlington Memory Gardens, Hartsville, Darlington County, South Carolina
The Watfords lived in Lamar, Darlington County. Leola was the last survivor of her siblings.
MARVIN ESKER ALEXANDER - Parents: Joseph Kirkland Joe Alexander, Sr. and the former
Frances Leitha Fannie Hancock
Born: December 8, 1929 Darlington County
Died: December 9, 1971 at age 42 near Newberry, South Carolina
Marriage: Florence County, South Carolina to Margaret Lynette Pigate
Born: May 17, 1935 Florence County
Burial: Marvin's at Bethany Free Will Baptist Church Cemetery, Florence County.
Marvin and Lynette had four children:
1. Vivian Sally Vicky Alexander
2. Ronald Marvin Ron Alexander
3. Judy Elaine Alexander
4. Larry Hoyt Alexander
Lynette's parents:

Hoyt Pigate b. June 6, 1910 d. January 22, 1986

Leolun Vause b. November 4, 1912 d. January 21, 2002. Burial for both was at Bethany Cemetery,
Florence County
Lynette’s paternal grandfather James N. Pigate was a Confederate soldier in Company B, 6th South Carolina
Infantry, Confederate States of America.
As an infant, Larry Alexander was referred to as Tater by his father.
After Marvin's death, Lynette married Eugene Gene Baker b. 1931 d. February 12, 2011.
OBITUARY for Marvin from Florence Morning News
Funeral services for Marvin Esker Alexander, 42, of 515 Carroll St., Florence, will be conducted at 3 p.m. Saturday
in the Sardis Baptist Church, near Timmonsville, by the Rev. Clyde Fox and the Rev. Paul M. Door. Burial, directed by
Waters Funeral Home of Florence, will be in Bethany Free Will Baptist Church Cemetery.
Pallbearers will be Terry Welch, Jerry Alexander, Jimmy Alexander, Terry Alexander, Joey Alexander, and Wayne
Alexander.
Mr. Alexander, a foreman for Fruit Growers' Express, was accidentally shot Thursday morning at a rest stop near
Newberry, while en route to Nashville, Tennessee.
Photo: A snapshot of Marvin, taken at City Products/Fruit Growers Express in Florence during the later 1950s.
MARY ALEXANDER - Parents: Rev. John William Reese Alexander and the former Delilah Alexandra Liley Kea
Born: About 1838 South Carolina
Death: Reportedly Dallas, Paulding County, Georgia
Burial: Possibly Coweta County, Georgia (Newnan area) where she reportedly moved following her marriage
At this point, not enough information has been found to have any more on this Mary.
MARY ANN ELIZABETH ALEXANDER (ROGERS) - Parents: John Wesley Alexander and the former Sarah A.M. Sallie Stewart
Born: February 27, 1867 Darlington County, South Carolina
Died: August 28, 1886 at age 19 Darlington County
Marriage: William Eliphus Gary Rogers
Born: July 28, 1861 Darlington County
Died: June 2, 1916
Burial: All of the known Rogerses mentioned are buried at Newman Swamp Methodist Cemetery, Lamar,
Darlington County. Gary remarried, and is buried beside his second wife, the former Minnie A. Saverance b. About 1874
South Carolina, whom he married in 1892.
According to a family history entry found on Ancestry.com, Mary and Gary had at least one child, William Everett
Rogers b. November 23, 1885 d. September 15, 1929 at age 33, who married the former Eunice Vista Folsom b.
December 31, 1882 d. March 11, 1960 at age 77. Burial for both was at Newman Swamp Methodist Cemetery. If that is
so, it is known that William Everett and Eunice Vista Folsom Rogers were the parents of the former Maggie Mae Rogers
who married Arnold Ceil Alexander, Sr., son of John Luther Alexander, Sr. (1); and grandson of Mary’s parents, John
Wesley and Sarah A.M. Sallie Stewart Alexander. That would have made Arnold nephew of Mary, and Maggie her
granddaughter.
Gary’s parents:

Abel L. Rogers b. February 5, 1826 d. March 1, 1879 at age 53

Esther Mary Jeffords b. October 9, 1825 d. September 27, 1904 at age 78
Mary was the eldest child of John and Sallie Alexander, although she lived a short life.
MARY BERTA ALEXANDER (McKAY) - Parents: John Luther Alexander, Sr. (1) and the former Nettie Hatchell
Born: August 14, 1907
Died: April 26, 1961 at age 54
Marriage: Archie Jacob McKay
Born: March 29, 1898 South Carolina. Although his grave marker states that Archie was born in 1898, his World
War I Draft Registration has him as being born on the same date, yet in 1899.
Died: January 23, 1959 South Carolina at age 60
Burial: Peniel Baptist Church, Timmonsville, Florence County, South Carolina
Mary and Archie’s children:

(unnamed male infant) McKay b. and d. November 7, 1938 (full-term stillborn), burial at Peniel Baptist
Church

Evelyn Ramona McKay b. February 6, 1931 m. Loyd Emery Wall d. Pancreatic cancer in 1977 at age 75

Rev. Archie Gerald McKay b. April 6, 1933 Florence County, South Carolina m. Frances Hill. Rev. McKay
was Pastor at: Hebron Baptist Church, Scranton, Florence County for six years; Eastside Baptist Church,
McColl, Marlboro County, South Carolina for three years; Neill's Creek Baptist Church, Angier, Harnett
County, North Carolina for seven years; Highland Baptist Church, New London, Stanly County, North
Carolina for three years; First Baptist Church, Johnsonville, Florence County for ten years; and then he
retired. Although he was never pastor at Peniel, he led revivals there, and filled-in when needed.
Frances Hill McKay’s parents:

Walter Hill

Maude Stricklen
Archie’s mother and father were born in South Carolina.
Thanks to Frances Hill McKay, for her information.
Archie registered for the World War I Draft on September 12, 1918 at the Local Board in Florence when he was
19. He was described as medium build and height, blue eyes, and light hair. The nearest relative was his father. Both
he and his father were living at Route 1, Timmonsville, Florence County. Archie’s Present occupation was farming, and
working for his father. He personally signed the registration card.
United States Federal Census Reference:
1930 - April 15th and 16th. Timmonsville, Florence County, South Carolina.

Archie J. McKay, age 32 (head)

Mary McKay, age 22 (wife)
1940 - June 13th and 14th. Timmonsville. According to that census, on April 1, 1935 the McKay’s were living in the
same location.

Archie McKay, age 42 (head)

Mary McKay, age 32 (wife)

Evalyn McKay, age 9 (daughter)

Gerald McKay, age 7 (son)
MATTIE VIOLA MOLLIE ALEXANDER (HATCHELL) - Parents: John Wesley Alexander and the former Sarah A.M. Sallie Stewart
Born: November 4, 1874 Lisbon, Darlington County, South Carolina
Died: Cerebral hemorrhage April 3, 1951 Darlington County, apparently at home in Lake Swamp community at
age 76
Marriage: December 31, 1896 George Chapel Hatchell
Born: May 22, 1875 Timmonsville, in then Darlington County
Died: April 20, 1961 Darlington County at age 85
Burial: Lake Swamp Baptist Church, Lake Swamp community, Darlington County near Timmonsville. Mattie was
buried April 5, 1951. Ham and Player of Timmonsville handled the arrangements.
Mattie and George's children:

(unnamed infant male) Hatchell b. and d. December 5, 1897 Darlington County

Roy Dudley Hatchell b. June 17, 1899 Darlington County d. May 27, 1973 Darlington County, burial at
Darlington Memory Gardens, Hartsville, Darlington County

Rufus Theodore Ruff Hatchell b. September 2, 1901 d. December 1975 at age 74 m. June 18, 1928 to
Blanche Evelyn Collins b. About 1910. Ruff was once known to have lived in Columbia, Richland County,
South Carolina

Maude E. Hatchell b. September 19, 1903 Darlington County d. April 13, 1985 Darlington County m1.
1925 Darlington County to Francis Robert Arthur Blackman b. December 18, 1905 Darlington County d.
November 24, 1954 Darlington County m2. 1935 Darlington County to Adjer Pitman Jordan b. October
16, 1898 d. January 30, 1964, Maude's buried beside Mr. Blackman at High Hill Baptist Church,
Darlington County as Maud H. Blackman Jordan with a picture of her in her elderly years on the grave
marker. Mr. Jordan is buried there, as well. The larger Blackman marker is inscribed Unto this union

was born Doris Robert Jean Don Ned
Roger John Hatchell b. December 7, 1908 Darlington County d. January 30, 1979 Roanoke Rapids,
Halifax County, North Carolina at age 70 m. Louise (nee?) b. About 1915 North Carolina, buried in North
Carolina. Roger and Louise lived at 222 Washington Street. His occupation is listed as a Back tender at
a paper mill (Halifax Paper Company) on the 1940 United States Federal Census. He registered for the
World War II Draft on October 16, 1940 in Roanoke Rapids, described as having blue eyes, brown hair,
5 feet 6 inches in height, 165 pounds, and ruddy complexion. His wife was listed as Mrs. R.J. Hatchell

Glenn Carl Hatchell b. December 29, 1913 d. September 18, 1976 Florence County at age 62 m. Eva
Powers b. October 18, 1912 d. March 6, 2003 at age 90, burial was at Lake Swamp Baptist Church,
Darlington County near Timmonsville. Inscription: ASLEEP IN JESUS

Susie Lou Hatchell
George’s parents:

Theodore C. Hatchell b. About 1836 Darlington County

Eliza Kelley b. October 23, 1846 d. January 7, 1907
George’s paternal grandparents:

William Hatchell b. About 1800

Mary (nee?) b. About 1815
George and Mattie were first cousins, and son Roy married a first cousin as well, Sadie C. Alexander. Although
most people knew her as Mattie, references from census records from her childhood have her listed as Mollie.
George’s World War I draft registration of September 12, 1918 has him as living in Route 2, Timmonsville,
Darlington County, and was recorded at the Darlington County Local Board. This would have him living in Darlington
County, but getting his mail out of the Timmonsville Post Office in nearby Florence County, likely in the Lake Swamp
community in which he’s buried. Florence and Darlington counties border each other between Lake Swamp and
Timmonsville proper. In the registration, George is described as medium height, stout build, blue eyes, and dark hair.
His occupation was listed as Farming.
OBITUARY for Mattie from an unknown publication on the day of her burial, April 5th.
TIMMONSVILLE – Funeral services for Mrs. G.C. Hatchell, 76, of the Lake Swamp community in Darlington County
will be held at Lake Swamp Baptist Church at 3:30 this afternoon.
Rites will be conducted by her pastor, the Reverend Ray Halson, assisted by the Reverend Robert E. Clyde, pastor
of High Hill and Central Baptist Churches of Darlington. Interment will follow in the church cemetery.
Mrs. Hatchell died suddenly at her residence after returning from a missionary meeting late Tuesday
afternoon. She was very active in all religious work in her community.
Survivors besides her husband, include two daughters, Mrs. R.A. Blackman of Darlington and Mrs. E. Ellisor of
West Columbia; four sons, Roy D. of Darlington, Glenn C. of Timmonsville; Ruff T. of Marion and Roger J. of Roanoke
Rapids, N.C.; one sister, Miss Maggie Alexander of Timmonsville; and two brothers, Luther Alexander of Timmonsville
and Joe Alexander of Elim; 25 grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren and a number of nieces and nephews.
Grandsons will serve as pallbearers and granddaughters will be in charge of the flowers.
The body will remain in the chapel of Ham and Perry in Timmonsville until 2 o’clock Thursday when it will be
moved to the church.
United States Federal Census Reference:
1900 - June 25th. Philadelphia, Darlington County, South Carolina.

George C Hatchil, age 25 (head)

Mattie A Hatchil, age 25 (wife)

Raye D Hatchil, age 11 months (son)

Eliza Hatchil, age 53 (mother)

Alison Jordan, age 21 (boarder)
1910 - May 14th. Philadelphia, Darlington County.

George C Hatchel, age 34 (head)

Mattie Hatchel, age 34 (wife)

John Hatchel, age 10 (son)

Dudley R Hatchel, age 7 (son)

Maude Hatchel, age 6 (daughter)

Roger Hatchel, age 2 (son)
1930 - April 18th. Anderson (School District), Philadelphia, Darlington County. The survey was enumerated by
their son, Roy Dudley Hatchell, a census taker, who lived next door. He, by the way, had already married first cousin
Sadie Alexander Hatchell, who had two step-children from her marriage to Raleigh Galloway, and a one and a half year
old son of their own, Marvin R. Hatchell.

George C Hatchell, age 54 (head)

Mattie V Hatchell, age 54 (wife)

Glen C Hatchell, age 17 (son)
1940 - Anderson (School District), Darlington County in the same dwelling in which they had lived on April 1,
1935.

George Hatchell, age 65 (head)

Mattie Hatchell, age 65 (wife)
SADIE CARINE ALEXANDER (GALLOWAY) (HATCHELL) - Parents: John Luther Alexander, Sr. (1) and the former Nettie Hatchell
Born: March 22, 1900 Darlington County, South Carolina
Died: August 9, 1942 at age 42 in the High Hill community of Darlington County
Marriage 1: January 31, 1919 in Darlington County to George Raleigh Galloway
Born: July 27, 1893 Darlington County
Died: about 1925 Darlington County at around age 34
Marriage 2: 1927 Darlington County to Roy Dudley Hatchell
Born: June 17, 1899 Darlington County
Died: May 27, 1973 Darlington County at age 73
Burial: August 10, 1942 at Pine Grove UMC, Darlington County, listed on her death certificate by its old name,
Thornal Cemetery, and the undertaker was listed as J.H. Kistler of Darlington. It stated she was a Domestic and At
home. Raleigh Galloway is reportedly buried at Wesley Chapel United Methodist Church, Lydia, Darlington County,
although a few have searched the cemetery at my request, and did not find his grave. It may be unmarked. It is a
large cemetery. Roy remarried, and that couple is buried at Darlington Memory Gardens, Hartsville, Darlington County.
Sadie's children with Raleigh Galloway:

George Merrill Galloway b. December
5, 1917 Darlington County d. May 24,
1936 McLeod Infirmary, Florence,
Florence County at age 18. Mr.
Galloway died of malaria (comatose
form). He farmed, and was
single. An obituary appeared in
Florence Morning News Saturday May
30, 1936. The only two siblings listed
as surviving were Alvin Galloway and
Eunice Elizabeth Galloway. His
grandmother was listed in the
obituary as Mrs. S. Galloway. The
obituary listed two half-brothers who
were still alive, Marvin Hatchell and
Billy Hatchell of the Salem section
near Timmonsville, and mentioned
two half-sisters, as well, but the
obituary did not give their names. It
also stated that Merrill had just
returned from the Civilian
Conservation Corps (CCC). Merrill was buried at Wesley Chapel UMC, Lydia, Darlington County. He was
previously residing in Lydia.

Mary Gladys Galloway (a child at her death) b. About 1919 d. Colitis May 11, 1921 Lydia at age 18
months. Burial: May 12, 1921 at Wesley Chapel UMC.

Eunice Elizabeth Galloway b. About 1921 d. After May 30, 1936, the date of brother Merrill’s obituary
m1. J.F. Nivens m2. James Morgan

Alvin H. Galloway b. November 23, 1923 Darlington County, d. July 28, 1974 at age 50 m. May M.
(nee?) Galloway b. May 1, 1926 d. April 7, 2007, and the burial was at West Nottingham Presbyterian
Cemetery, West Nottingham, Cecil County, Maryland, plot 27.4427. According to stepfather Roy
Hatchell's 1973 obituary, Alvin was living in Perryville, Cecil County. May reportedly remarried to a Mr.
Hornberger
Raleigh's parents:

George M. Galloway, b. About 1870 South Carolina

Sallie C. (nee?) b. About 1871 South Carolina. Another family tree research (unsourced) states she was
Leonora F. Nora (nee?) Galloway.
Sadie's and Roy’s children with Roy:

Marvin Roy Hatchell b. October 17, 1928

Mattie Faye Hatchell b. January 8, 1931 Florence County d. February 1, 2007 Spokane, Spokane County,
Washington m. Harry Chester Adams b. March 29, 1926 Darlington County d. December 29, 2005
Darlington County, Mr. and Mrs. Adams are buried at Grove Hill Cemetery, Darlington, Darlington
County. Faye was a nurse's assistant for many years. She moved to Washington following her
husband's death to live with a grandson. Mr. Adams served during World War II in the United States
Navy.

June Hatchell b. January 2, 1933 d. February 2, 2009 at age 76 m. Herbert Martin. An obituary was
published on South Carolina Now on the Internet.
William Glenba Billy Hatchell b. October 31, 1935 d. September 19, 1989. Burial: Pine Grove UMC,
Darlington County near Timmonsville
Roy's parents:

George Chapel Hatchell. I personally think Mr. Hatchell's middle name was spelled Chappell, a very
common surname in the Darlington County area.

Mattie Viola Mollie Alexander
First husband Raleigh Galloway was living at Route 2, Timmonsville in 1917 when he was 23 years old. At that
time he was described in his World War I Draft Registration as medium height and build, light brown eyes, and light
brown hair. The registration took place at the Local Board in Darlington County. He did not sign the card, yet made his
mark, an X. He apparently could not write at that time, yet became a census taker in later years with required writing.
Sadie’s death resulted from a cerebral hemorrhage, brought on by childbirth. There seems to be no confirmation
of a live birth, only her death. She, according to her death certificate had the stroke on August 8, 1942. Husband Roy
was the Informant of her death. Dr. J.F. Davenport of Timmonsville attended her, and signed her death certificate.
Sadie’s name has been seen as Sadie C., Sadie G. and her grave marker is inscribed Sadie E. The 1940 United
States Federal Census, her last, lists her as Sadie Carine Hatchell, plus she is listed on her death certificate with C as her
middle initial.
She was listed as Sadie G. Hatchell in son Merrill’s obituary, possibly because of her marriage to Raleigh
Galloway.
Roy and Ruth’s children:
 Judy Diane Hatchell m. Mr. Andrews
 Ronald Allen Ronnie Hatchell
 Ruth Marie Hatchell m. John Alexander Johnny White (son of Helen Flora Alexander
and Robert White, Jr.)
An OBITUARY for Sadie was published in The State Columbia, Richland
County, South Carolina August 10, 1942.

OBITUARY for Roy from Florence Morning News Thursday May 24, 1973
DARLINGTON - Roy Dudley Hatchell, 73, of Rt. 4, died late Tuesday evening
in a Darlington Hospital after a short illness.
Funeral services will be conducted Thursday at 3 p.m. in Pine Grove
Methodist Church by the Rev. Guy Mayor, and the Rev. R.N. Wells. Burial, directed by
Belk-King Funeral Home, will be in Darlington Memory Gardens.
Pallbearers will be Otto Davis, Olin DuBose, Richard Brown, Bernice Brown,
and Alvin Dewitt.
Mr. Hatchell was born in Darlington County, a son of the late George and
Mattie Alexander Hatchell. A veteran of WW I, Mr. Hatchell was employed as a
carpenter and a farmer before his retirement.
Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Ruth Norwood Hatchell; five sons, William
Hatchell of Florence, Marvin Hatchell of Charlotte, N.C., Alvin Galloway of Perryville, Md., Ronald Allen Hatchell, and John
Lowery both of Darlington. Five daughters, Mrs. Judy Andrews of Lamar, Mrs. Eunice Nivens of Nashville, Tenn., Mrs.
June Martin, Mrs. Faye Adams, and Miss Marie Hatchell all of Darlington, a sister, Mrs. Maude Jordan of Darlington; three
brothers, Ruff Hatchell of Columbia, Roger Hatchell of Roanoke, N.C., and Glen Hatchell of Timmonsville; 11
grandchildren and three great grandchildren.
ARTICLE - Morning News Sunday February 7, 1932, Page 5
Mr. Roy Hatchell of the Peniel section spent Thursday with his father Mr. G.C. Hatchell.
United States Federal Census Reference:
1920 - January 21st. School District 15, Epworth, (Lydia area) Darlington County, South Carolina.

George W. Galloway, age 27 (head)

Sadie Galloway, age 20 (wife)

George M. Galloway, age 2 (son)

Mary G. Galloway, age 2 months (daughter)
1930, April 16th. Anderson (School District), Darlington County, South Carolina (Philadelphia area). Here’s
something you don’t find every day. Roy surveyed his own home, because he was the census taker for that area that
year. Merrill died in 1936, but was not present in this survey. He would have been around 12 years of age at the time.

Roy D Hatchell, age 31 (head)

Sadie Hatchell, age 30 (wife)

Eunice Galloway, age 8 (stepdaughter)

Alvin Galloway, age 6 years 4 months (stepson)

Marvin R Hatchell, age 1 year and 6 months
1940 - May 16th and 17th. High Hill, Darlington County, South Carolina. The family lived there on April 1, 1935,
as well. Going only by the survey's last names of Eunice, Alvin, and Marvin, they were adopted by Roy Hatchell.

Ray Hatchell, age 48 (head)

Sadie Carine Hatchell, age 40 (wife)

Unile E Hatchell, age 19 (daughter)

Alvin Y Hatchell, age 16 (son)

Marvin Hatchell, age 16 (son)

Faye Hatchell, age 9 (daughter)

June Hatchell, age 7 (daughter)

Billy Hatchell, age 4 (son)
Photos: Group of John Luther Alexander’s children with name caption beneath it, and Roy Hatchell during the first World War.
SALLIE LOUISE ALEXANDER (NEWSOME) - Parents: Charles Engram Charlie Alexander and the former Ida Eula Jeffords
Born: May 5, 1928 Florence County, South Carolina
Died: March 3, 1999 Florence, Florence County at age 70
Marriage: Harley A. Newsome
Born: November 18, 1928
Died: September 1, 1998 at age 69
Burial: Both at Magnolia Cemetery, Hartsville, Darlington County, South Carolina
Harley's parents:

Carl Wellington Newsome, Sr. of Hartsville b. August 8, 1892 South Carolina d. September 1968

Mattie King b. About 1900 South Carolina
Just guessing that Sallie was named after her paternal grandmother, Sallie Stewart Alexander. Guessing again,
Sallie may have been named Louise after her well-respected aunt, Maggie Louise Alexander.
United States Federal Census Reference:
In the 1940 survey, Harley was living in his parents’ home in Hartsville, Darlington County.
OBITUARY for Sallie from Florence Morning News March 10, 1999
Hartsville - Sally Louise Alexander Newsome, 70, died Tuesday evening in a Florence hospital after an
illness. Funeral Services will be 3 p.m. Thursday in the Lamar Chapel of Belk Funeral Home. Interment will follow in
Magnolia Cemetery Hartsville.
Mrs. Newsome, wife of the late Harley A. Newsom, was born in Florence County the daughter of the late Charlie
Ingram (Engram is correct) and Ida Eula Jeffords Alexander. She was a member of Wesley Chapel United Methodist
Church and Ladies Bible Class of the church.
Surviving are a sister, Leola A. Watford of Lamar; and several nieces and nephews.
Mrs. Newsome was preceded in death by five brothers, Charles Ira Alexander, Woodrow Wilson Alexander, James
Ervin Alexander, Hamilton Earl Alexander, and Frank William Alexander.
The family will receive friends from 7-9 p.m. today at the funeral home.
Harley's obituary was published September 2, 1998 in the Columbia, South Carolina newspaper The State.
VIVIAN SALLY VICKY ALEXANDER (SCRUGHAN) - Parents: Marvin Esker Alexander and the former Lynette Pigate
Born: December 29, 1953 Florence, Florence County, South Carolina
Died: January 25, 2011 Charleston, Charleston County, South Carolina area
Marriage: John Joseph Scrughan
Burial: January 28, 2011 Holy Cross Cemetery, James Island, Charleston County
Vicky was an in-home caregiver.
OBITUARY for Vicky from Charleston Post and Courier January 26, 2011
CHARLESTON - Entered into eternal rest on the morning of January 25, 2011, Vivian Sally Alexander Scrughan,
wife of John Joseph Scrughan. Residence, Charleston, South Carolina. The relatives and friends of Vickie Scrughan are
invited to attend her funeral service Friday, January 28, 2011, at 1:00 p.m., in J. HENRY STUHR, INC., DOWNTOWN
CHAPEL. Burial will be conducted later in Holy Cross Cemetery. The family will receive friends Thursday in Stuhr's
Downtown Chapel between 5:00 and 7:00 p.m.
Mrs. Scrughan was born December 29, 1953, in Florence, SC, the daughter of Marvin E. Alexander and (living
excluded from this obituary). She attended James Island Baptist Church. She was an In Home Caregiver.
She is survived by her husband of Charleston, SC; one daughter and two grandchildren (living, so names
excluded from this obituary).
WILLARD TERRY ALEXANDER, SR. - Parents: Joseph Kirkland Joe Alexander, Sr. and the former Frances Leitha Fannie Hancock
Born: April 29, 1918 Darlington County, South Carolina
Died: March 9, 1996 at a Florence, Florence County, South Carolina hospital at age 77
Marriage: July 18, 1942 to Nobia Elizabeth Stricklen (pronounced `no-bee)
Born: October 27, 1921 Florence County
Died: Thursday, June 26, 2014 Florence County at age 92
Burial: Willard, Nobia, and their infants are buried at Sparrow Swamp Baptist Church, South Hill Road, rural
Timmonsville, Florence County.
All told, Willard and Nobia had six children:

Infant son Alexander b. and d. September 9, 1943

Infant daughter Alexander b. and d. March 25, 1945

Infant son Alexander b. and d. April 27, 1949

Daphne Elizabeth Alexander

Gloria Diane Alexander

Willard Terry Alexander, Jr.
Nobia's parents were Emerson Strickland b. October 16, 1891 Florence
County d. November 25, 1971 McLeod Hospital, Florence, Florence County and
Agnes LeRoy Roy Sansbury b. April 5, 1888 d. June 22, 1976 McLeod Hospital,
Florence, Florence County, burial: Sparrow Swamp Baptist Church, Timmonsville,
Florence County
The surname on Nobia's parents' grave marker is spelled Strickland, although
his obituary had him as Stricklen. According to what I've been told, Mr. Strickland
either had it changed or started using that spelling at some point. According to
Nobia, her father didn't have a middle name.
At the time of his World War I Draft Registration of June 5, 1917 at age 25,
Emerson and his wife were living at Route 6, Timmonsville. He was listed as a
married self-employed farmer, tall, medium build, blue eyes, and brown hair. He
registered at Precinct 8, Florence County, and signed the registration card in his
own handwriting.
In earlier years, Willard, Nobia, and the children were primarily tobacco farmers who raised other crops, and sold
items from their farm at the old farmers market in Florence, Florence County. At that time, the family sold everything
from vegetables to butter, and possibly meat.
They started attending Sardis Baptist Church starting in 1952, after moving into the Sardis community. Although
active in that church, they transferred back to Sparrow Swamp Baptist Church in
October 1990, after purchasing a farm not too far from there. Willard had become a
member at Sparrow Swamp when he was 12, baptized by Rev. J.W. Truluck. He
became a Deacon there in 1945.
Dedicated farmers, Willard and family were sharecroppers for eighteen years
previous to their purchasing a farm in the Glenwood Community near Timmonsville,
Florence County, which the family still owns. He told me was 42 or 43 years old
when he bought it.
Willard was a Master Mason with Benton Lodge #226 of Timmonsville, and
was a Woodmen of the World member with Cedar Camp #245 of Timmonsville.
Originally, his name was Willard Dewey Alexander, but due to a clerical error
made by a secretary with the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), he was officially
listed as Willard Terry Alexander. I was told by Uncle Willard that it worked out
okay. The name Terry stayed with him through the Army and the rest of his life.
Willard became Willard Terry Alexander, and son Terry uses the same name, except
for being Jr.
As a teenager, Willard served two separate terms in the CCC during the
Depression era. They, among other projects, developed Lee State Park between
Lamar and Bishopville, in Lee County. The first term was from October of 1936 to
April of 1937, and the second term lasted from October of 1937 to October of 1939.
At age 22, Willard joined the National Guard to receive training for one year, and then to be
discharged. Everything was going according to plan, in fact, he was home on leave just prior to his discharge when
World War II was declared. He was called into active duty until May of 1943 when he was sent home with an honorable
medical discharge due to stomach ulcers.
The statistics on his enlistment are: a one-year enlistment; rank of Private; infantry branch; enlisted January 3,
1941 Fort Jackson, South Carolina; height 70 inches; and weight 174 pounds. There were certain criteria to be met for
him to get only a one-year enlistment.
Some sort of unidentified public records had him once living at: R 1 A208 Cedar Reef Villa, Timmonsville, SC,
29161.
The Social Security Death Index lists Willard’s death date as March 10, 1996. Keep in mind that the index is often
incorrect.
TRIBUTE - The grandchildren remember Papa…
He always went to church.
He was a hard worker.
He loved his grandchildren, and would always greet us with outreached arms for a hug when we arrived and left.
He joked with everyone.
He sang hymns as he worked, even making up words as he sang.
He enjoyed Christmas like a little kid.
He slept and snored.
He always told us to be particular... and that means in everything.
Spence remembers going with Papa to sell sweet potatoes.
TRIBUTE - Daughter Daphne remembers…
Growing up on a farm meant spending lots of time with Mom and Dad
around the farm and helping or watching as chores were done. We have vivid
memories of my Dad assuring us that we could accomplish a unique task if
only we tried our very best. As a young inquisitive child, one night I asked
why chickens lay eggs and I couldn't. My Dad told me that if I would cackle
like a chicken, I could indeed lay an egg. Boy, was I excited as I anxiously
watched Dad make a straw nest in a basket. I perched myself upon the nest
and began to cackle, frequently pausing to look for an egg.
Finally Dad got up, straightened my nest and told me to cackle with
all my strength. I did and jumped up to find a beautiful egg in my nest. I was
so proud. I thought my Dad was so wonderful to encourage me to accomplish
such a task. I laid so many eggs in my early years, but soon became
suspicious when I realized I could only lay eggs when my Dad assisted me.
Dad has always been so friendly and never meets a stranger. When we would go places, he always struck a
conversation with someone. He was visiting with us in Texas and we were shopping in a big department store. As Dad
wandered around the store, he bumped into a mannequin. Being a gentleman, he stopped, patted her arm, and
apologized in his warm gentle way. Of course we were watching, and to see Dad talking to a mannequin was too
much. As we always said, Dad can talk to anyone!
OBITUARY for Willard from Florence Morning News March 11, 1996
TIMMONSVILLE - Willard Terry Alexander, Sr., 77, died Sunday, March 10, 1996, in a Florence hospital after a
brief illness.
He was born in Darlington County, a son of the late Joseph K. and Frances Hancock Alexander. He was a U.S.
Army veteran of World War II and was a retired farmer. He was an active member of Sparrow Swamp Baptist Church
and was a member of Woodmen of the World, Camp No. 245.
Surviving are his wife, Nobia Stricklen Alexander, a son, W. Terry Alexander Jr. of Timmonsville; two daughters,
Mrs. Spencer (Daphne) Jones of Birmingham, Ala., and Mrs. Johnny (Diane) Lynch of Timmonsville; a brother, Joe K.
Alexander of Timmonsville; a sister, Mrs. Mildred A. Powers of Timmonsville; and seven grandchildren, Spence and
Melissa Jones, Wil and Wes Lynch, and Trey, Tara and Justin Alexander.
Funeral services will be at 4 p.m. today in Sparrow Swamp Baptist Church. Burial will be in the church cemetery,
directed by Layton-Anderson Funeral Home of Timmonsville.
Memorials may be made to Sparrow Swamp Baptist Church, 3234 S. Hill Road, Timmonsville, South Carolina
29161.
OBITUARY for Nobia from www.scnow.com/obituaries Friday, June 27, 2014
TIMMONSVILLE -- Nobia Stricklen Alexander died on Thursday morning June 26, 2014 after a long illness.
Funeral services will be Saturday, June 28, 2014 at 2:00 p.m. at Sparrow Swamp Baptist Church. Interment will follow in
the church cemetery. Visitation will be today (Friday) from 6 to 8 p.m. at Layton-Anderson Funeral Home. Mrs.
Alexander was born in Florence County, the daughter of the late Emerson and Agnes LeRoy Sansbury Stricklen. She was
a member of Sparrow Swamp Baptist Church. She provided a loving home and care for her family and at the death of
Mr. Willard she worked as the receptionist for the Appliance Center of Florence. She was married to the late Willard
Alexander until his death in 1996. Surviving are a son, W. Terry Alexander, Jr., Timmonsville; two daughters, Diane A.
(Johnny) Lynch, Timmonsville, Daphne A. (Spencer) Jones, Sr., Birmingham, ALA; grandchildren, Spence Jones, Jr.
Melissa J. Adams, Wil Lynch, Wes (Shelli) Lynch, Trey (Deanna) Alexander, Justin (Lindsey) Alexander, Tara A. (Chris)
Steger and seven great-grandchildren. She is preceded in death by two sisters, Marie Brown and Emma Brown.
Memorials may be made to Sparrow Swamp Baptist Church, 3234 Hill Road, Timmonsville, SC 29161. Layton-Anderson
Funeral Home, 4210 W. Palmetto Street, Florence, is assisting the family with arrangements.
United States Federal Census Reference:
1940 - June 20th. Timmonsville, Florence County, South Carolina. Willard was living in the home of Keith and
Bertha Hancock on a farm. Keith was his first cousin, a son of his mother’s brother Jim. Living next door was Willard’s
oldest brother Clifton. According to the census survey, Keith, Bertha, and Willard were living in the same household in
1935, too. According to that survey, Willard had finished the eighth grade in school, and was listed as an unpaid family
worker, a laborer.

Keith Hancock, age 49 (head)

Bertha Hancock, age 48 (wife)

Willard Alexander, age 21 (cousin)
WILLIAM A. WILLIE ALEXANDER - Parents: Henry Lee Alexander and the former Laura M. Raines
Born: March 28, 1915
Died: After February 17, 1961, the date of brother Carl’s death
Burial: Reportedly in the Greenville, South Carolina area
United States Federal Census Reference:
In the 1940 census, Willie was living with his parents, single, and in 1961 was known to be living in Greenville, as
well.
WILLIAM ELBERT ALEXANDER - Parents: Joseph Kirkland Joe Alexander, Sr. and the former Frances Leitha Fannie Hancock
Born: August 13, 1923 Florence County, South Carolina
Died: June 11, 1924 Timmonsville, Florence County, South Carolina at age 1 year 6 months 15 days. Elbert's
death certificate states that he died at home of colitis. The informant of his passing was his grandfather, John Wesley
Alexander, and his burial was on the day of his death at Pine Grove United Methodist Church, then known as the Thornal
Cemetery, Darlington County near Timmonsville. He's buried next to his parents.
WILLIAM FRANK ALEXANDER, SR. - Parents: Charles Engram Charlie Alexander and Frances Olivia Jernigan
DONE
Born: May 30, 1903 Darlington County
Died: September 18, 1990 at age 87 South Carolina
Marriage: Grace Andrews
Born: July 14, 1921
Died: September 17, 2004 at age 83
Burial: Elim United Methodist Church, Oates, Darlington County. Inscription: THY KINGDOM COME THY, WILL BE
Frank and Grace had two known children:

William Frank Alexander, Jr.

Ann Alexander
At the time of his death, Frank was the oldest living Alexander in our immediate clan, covering Darlington and
Florence counties in South Carolina. I had the privilege of meeting with him at an Alexander-Ward reunion not long
before he passed, and got some first-hand family information from him. I remember several of the senior Alexanders in
the gathering treating him as somewhat of a celebrity.
As I talked with Mr. Alexander, I asked him about his father’s middle name. Some have written it as Ingram, but
he stated very emphatically, more than once, that Charlie's middle name was indeed Engram with an E, not an I, and
that it was not Ingle, as some have thought. In addition, he said his father's first name was Charles, not officially Charlie
as some have said.
United States Federal Census Reference:
In 1940, Frank was 36, and living with his father’s family.
OBITUARY for Frank from Florence Morning News September 19, 1990
Hartsville - Services for William Frank Alexander Sr. will be 5:20 p.m.
today in Elim Methodist Church. Burial will be in the church cemetery,
directed by Norton Funeral Home.
Mr. Alexander, 87, died Tuesday, Sept. 18, 1990, in a Hartsville
hospital after an illness.
He was born in Florence County, a son of the Late Charles I. and
Francis Olivia Jernigan Alexander. He was a retired farmer and a member of
Elim Baptist Church.
Survivors include his wife, Grace Andrews Alexander of Hartsville; a
daughter (living excluded from this obituary, and those not confirmed
living); two brothers, James Alexander of Hartsville and Woodrow Alexander
of Lamar; two sisters, Sally Newsom of Hartsville and Leola Watford of
Lamar.
Memorials may be made to the Elim Methodist Church, c/o Jimmy
Freeman, Route 1, Lamar.
OBITUARY for Grace from Florence Morning News September 2004
Hartsville - Funeral Services for Grace Andrews Alexander, 83, widow
of William Frank Alexander Sr., will be 3 p.m. Sunday, Sept 19, 2004 from
Elim Methodist Church. Burial will be in the church cemetery directed by
Norton Funeral Home. Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. today at the funeral home.
Mrs. Alexander was born in Darlington County the daughter of the late Clyde and Ollie Mae Thomas
Andrews. She was a member of Elim Methodist Church and the DeEtte Oates W.M.U. Group.
Surviving are daughter and son (living excluded from this obituary, and those not confirmed living); a grandson
and his wife (living excluded from this obituary, and those not confirmed living).
She was predeceased by two brothers, Marvin and Francis Andrews, and two sisters, Cora Truett Watford and
Vera Parnell.
Memorials may be made to the Elim Methodist Church, in care of Muryl J. Gardner, 3596 Oates Highway, Lamar,
S.C. 29069.
WILTON KENNETH ALEXANDER - Parents: Joseph Kirkland Joe Alexander, Sr. and the former Frances Leitha Fannie Hancock
Born: November 22, 1910 Darlington County, South Carolina
Died: May 22, 1986 at home in Effingham, Florence County, South Carolina at age 75
Marriage: Lillie Beatrice Bea Lloyd
Born: September 19, 1913 Florence County
Died: December 7, 1990 at age 77
Burial: Kenneth and Beatrice are buried in a newer section of Elim Baptist Church’s cemetery in Florence County
that appears to be specifically for flat markers. Bea’s second husband is buried next to his first wife near Timmonsville.
Kenneth and Beatrice's children:
1. Betty Evelyn Alexander
2. James Carl Jimmy Alexander
3. Joyce Virginia Alexander
4. Albert Dewey Alexander
5. Lois Patricia Alexander
6. Hoyt Allen Alexander
Bea's parents were Rosier Lloyd and Annie Mims.
Kenneth once worked for the Worker's Progress Administration (WPA), a job-generating program of President
Franklin Delano Roosevelt's New Deal during the first half of the 20th Century.
Beatrice remarried after Kenneth’s death to Earl Ward b. April 28, 1913 d. December 17, 1989 Florence County,
South Carolina. Earl passed previous to Beatrice.
TRIBUTE - Kenneth’s daughter Carolyn remembers…
He was a very generous man with a heart so big, very few people could match it, and a sense of humor that
never failed to leave his family and friends laughing for hours.
His role as a husband and father was commendable, and as a grandfather, his job was unlimited. From the first
grandchild to the last, their highlight of the week was the visit to granddaddy's house. They began by visiting the clay
hole, a place described by the children as a great big hole in the woods.
Another talent was his ability to capture his grandchildren, and all other children in the neighborhood with his
humorous stories he would tell as they all gathered under the big oak tree.
In working, his first love was farming, although he was forced to do public work, he never lost his love for
growing things. After his retirement, his garden was his haven. Each year his little small garden grew to be a very big
one. This is where he spent his last day, his last moment. He died in his garden May 22, 1986.
OBITUARY for Kenneth from The State May 24, 1986
W. Kenneth Alexander, 75, died Thursday.
Born in Darlington County, he was a son of the late Joe K. and Fannie Hancock Alexander.
He was a retired employee of La-Z-Boy East of Florence and a member of Elim Baptist Church.
Surviving are his widow, Mrs. Beatrice Lloyd Alexander; Dewey Alexander of Effingham, Hoyt Alexander of
Charleston, and Jimmy Alexander of Florence; daughters, Mrs. Virginia Dennis and Mrs. Evelyn McCutcheon of
Effingham, Mrs. Carolyn Welch of Florence, and Mrs. Lois DeWitt of Pamplico; brothers, Lee, Willard, and Joe Alexander
of Timmonsville, and Belvin Alexander of Florence; a sister, Mrs. Mildred Powers of Timmonsville; and grandchildren.
Services will be held at 4 p.m. today at Elim Baptist Church.
Memorials may be made to Elim Baptist Church.
Layton-Perry Funeral Home of Timmonsville is in charge.
OBITUARY for Kenneth from Florence Morning News May 1986
Effingham - Funeral services for Kenneth Alexander will be at 4 p.m. Saturday in Elim Baptist Church. Burial will
be in the church cemetery, directed by Layton-Perry Funeral Home.
Mr. Alexander died Thursday.
He was born in Darlington County, a son of the late Joe K. and Fannie Hancock Alexander. He was retired from
La-Z-Boy East and a member of Elim Baptist Church.
Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Beatrice Lloyd Alexander of the home; three sons, Dewey Alexander of Effingham,
Hoyt Alexander of Charleston, and Jimmy Alexander of Florence; four daughters, Mrs. Harry (Virginia) Dennis of
Effingham, Mrs. Joe (Evelyn) McCutcheon of Florence, and Mrs. Jennings (Carolyn) DeWitt of Pamplico; four brothers,
Lee Alexander, Willard Alexander, and Joe Alexander of Timmonsville, and Belvin Alexander of Florence; a sister, Mrs.
Edgar (Mildred) Powers of Timmonsville; and 13 grandchildren.
Memorials may be made to the church building fund.
OBITUARY for Beatrice from Florence Morning News December 8, 1990
Timmonsville - Services for Beatrice Lloyd Alexander Ward will be 2:00 pm Sunday in Elim Baptist Church in
Effingham. Burial will follow in the church cemetery, directed by Layton-Perry Funeral
Home.
Mrs. Ward, 77, died Friday, December 7, 1990, in a Florence hospital after an
illness.
Survivors include three sons, Dewey Alexander of Effingham, Hoyt Alexander of
Charleston and Jimmy Alexander of Florence; three step-sons Arnold Ward, Billy Ward,
and Don Ward, all of Timmonsville; four daughters, Virginia Dennis and Evelyn
McCutcheon, both of Effingham, Carolyn Welch of Florence and Lois Dewitt of
Pamplico; a step-daughter Shirley W. Holliday of Florence; a brother, Thomas E. Lloyd
of Florence; two sisters, Grace Taylor and Mildred Bell, both of Florence; 13
grandchildren; and three great grandchildren.
The family will receive friends from 7-9 pm today in the funeral home and at
other times in the home of Harry Dennis of Effingham.
Beatrice had a brother who was surviving at the time of her death in 1990, Thomas E. Lloyd, and two sisters,
Grace Lloyd Taylor and Mildred Lloyd Bell.
She was widowed by Kenneth in 1986, and by Kenneth's first cousin, Earl H. Ward in 1989.
Bea was a member of Elim Baptist Church, and had retired from Florence Manufacturing Company.
United States Federal Census Reference:
1940 - June 21st. Timmonsville, Florence County, South Carolina. The family also lived there April 1, 1935, as
well.

Kenneth Alexander, age 29
(head)

Beatrice Alexander, age 26
(wife)

Dewie Alexander, age 8 (son)

Virginia Alexander, age 5
(daughter)

Hoyt Alexander, age 4 (son)

Carolyn Alexander, age 7
months (daughter)
WOODROW WILSON ALEXANDER - Parents:
Charles Engram Charlie Alexander and the former
Ida Eula Jeffords
Born: September 1, 1914 South
Carolina
Died: September 25, 1990 at age 76
Married: Dorothy W. (nee?)
Born: November 14, 1931
Burial: Pine Grove United Methodist
Church, Darlington County, South Carolina
near his parents. Inscription: THY KINGDOM
COME, THY WILL BE DONE.
United States Federal Census Reference:
In the 1940 census Woodrow was living with his father’s family at age 26. According to his wife Dorothy, whom I
spoke with by phone while Woodrow was still alive, told me that he was going through a long bout with debilitating
diabetes, including blindness.
OUR ANCESTORS - THE SETTLERS IN OLD SUMTER DISTRICT
First cousins, three people mentioned in this section are your direct ancestors who shared their DNA with your
parents, you, your children, and grandchildren. They are your 4-great grandmother Mrs. Frances (nee?) Alexander, 3great grandfather John Alexander, and 2-great grandfather John William Reese Alexander, known as William.
William was born during 1819 in South Carolina, as well as all of his siblings being born there, and all of the
aforementioned lived in old Cheraws District, specifically in the smaller districts of Sumter and Darlington within
Cheraws. Frances and son John initially lived in Dobbs County, North Carolina, a large county that was split into
Glasgow and Lenoir counties, and the name Dobbs disappeared into history. Frances and her family lived in the part of
that division which is now Lenoir.
The first Alexanders to migrate into South Carolina before 1796 moved into old Salem, a small community in
Sumter District. 1796 was the birth year of John and Mary Woodham Alexander’s first child, Rev. Abner M. Alexander
was born, and in South Carolina. In addition, John and Mary married in Cheraws before that. Salem was short-lived as
far as its name was concerned, and became known as Bishopville in now Lee County. Bishopville became incorporated
in 1888, and is known for its farming and cotton producing. It even has a cotton museum.
The word county, when used to describe jurisdictions in South Carolina back in the 1700s and most of the 1800s
is incorrect. The state had parishes in the Low Country in the southern area, and districts everywhere else. There were
no what we call counties established until after the War Between the States, the proper name of what we call the Civil
War, and most districts changed to counties around 1868. Early districts were judicial districts. A few smaller judicial
districts would be a part of one larger judicial district. Not all states had districts, so even genealogy Ancestry.com don’t
currently recognize the word District when entering a location in their online search fields. Once must erroneously enter
County to even get a response.
Many of the Bishopville area Alexanders still have descendants living in and around the general area, and there
are a number of African-American Alexanders still living there who are descendants of the slaves once owned by
Alexanders. Although I’ve not seen evidence of Frances owning slaves, yet son John did. John initially owned five
hundred acres of property which he farmed, and Frances owned one hundred thirty acres. She may have had slaves to
help her, but I’ve seen no proof. According to the 1790 (North Carolina) and 1800 (South Carolina) U.S. Census, she
had none in her household. John may have furnished slaves to help out at his mother’s home place. His slaves were
mentioned in his will, and son William had at least one, willed to him by his father. In William’s early days, he was his
father’s Overseer, as shown in a census survey, and also listed as an overseer at his own home later on in life. William’s
older brother Abner M. also had slaves, inheriting some from father-in-law
Jeremiah Belk.
John and Mary Polly Woodham Alexander were quite important in
increasing the Alexander population in that part of the state, and eventually
elsewhere.
John had only one known sibling, an older sister, Mary Margaret
Alexander, who also had several children born as Hickmans. She and husband
Paris Hickman, a son of William Hickman moved on to eastern central Mississippi
in the vicinity of the Choctaw Nation during the early 1800s. Mary lived into her
eighties, outliving Paris. The area still has a Choctaw reservation, with wellknown Las Vegas-style casinos and hotels on it called Pearl River Resort, and run
by the Choctaws. The resort is located near the Pearl River and Philadelphia, the
seat of Neshoba County.
Most of the biographies in this section are those of John and Mary
Woodham Alexander’s children.
Rev. ABNER M. ALEXANDER - Parents: John Alexander and Mary Polly Woodham.
Born: January 25, 1796 Sumter District, South Carolina
Died: June 13, 1871 Sumter County, South Carolina at age 74 (areas of the districts changed to counties not long
after the Civil War ended)
Marriage: 1819 Darlington District, South Carolina to Massey Ella Belk
Born: April 4, 1804 South Carolina
Died: September 19, 1870 Sumter County at age 51
Burial: Location not known by this research
Children of Abner and Massey:

Abijah Elijah Ebijah Alexander b. About 1820 d. About 1892 at about age 72 m. Lydia Mixon Fields b.
About 1821 d. About 1898. Lydia was a daughter of John Fields and Elizabeth Mixon. Lydia’s paternal
grandparents were Micah Mixon and Lydia Williamson. Her great grandfather was Jonathon Williamson.

Benjamin M. Alexander b. April 13, 1838 Sumter District d. May 17, 1864 Darlington District at age 26 m.
Louisa Elizabeth Reynolds b. January 25, 1844 d. November 10, 1914 at age 70. Benjamin’s buried at
New Hope Cemetery, Darlington County, South Carolina where his father was once Pastor. The church
is no longer there. The tombstone is broken into three pieces, but the majority of his inscription states:
Son of Rev. Abner and Massey Alexander – He leaves a wife and two sons. May we all meet in
Heaven. Erected by his son C.M. Alexander. Benjamin was wounded in battle during the War Between




the States, then sent home, where he died. Louisa stayed in the same general area, remarrying to Mr.
McCaskill.
Elizabeth Jane Alexander b. February 27, 1826 d. Near Montgomery City, Montgomery County, Missouri
on February 23, 1870 about a year after moving there at age 43 m. Benjamin J. Skinner, Elizabeth is
buried at Montgomery City Cemetery. Benjamin remarried to a F.B. (nee?) b. About 1844 d. About 1884
at about 40 years of age.
Frances J. Alexander b. About 1845 d. After 1860
Harriett M. Alexander b. About 1836 Sumter District, South Carolina d. After 1867 m. January 24, 1861
to Henry A. Tiller of Kershaw District, South Carolina b. About 1836 d. About 1884 at around age
48. The wedding was performed by Rev. James E. Rogers at Antioch Baptist Church, Kershaw District.
Hartwell C. Alexander b. About 1840 d. After the Civil War. Hartwell was a Confederate Private in
Company F, 9th Regiment, later known as the 2nd South Carolina. He enlisted June 22, 1861, and
became a member of that unit when it was mustered into service on Thursday, July 4, 1861 in
Ridgeville, South Carolina. He fell ill and was hospitalized from September to October of 1861, and
received a surgeon's certificate of disability on November 7, 1861. Hartwell was given a medical
discharge, going out the same as he entered, a Private. He was a recipient of land known as the Parnell
Tract. The land, located in Lynches Creek Swamp, contained sixty-nine acres, running adjacent to John
Fields' land.

Henrietta Dupree Alexander b. July 16, 1856 d. August 6, 1899 at age 43 m. January 13, 1870 to James
E. Garfield Crosswell b. About 1850 d. About 1920 at around 70 years old, burial at Bethlehem
Cemetery, Bishopville, Lee County, South Carolina. James was a 32nd Degree Scottish Rite Mason
(Freemason).

Israel Jefferson Alexander b. February 5, 1832 South Carolina d. February 14, 1908 at age 76 m. By
1867 to Susannah Ellen Clark b. January 23, 1828 d. November 19, 1899 at age 70. Burial: Both at
Cypress Cemetery. According to reports, Ellen had been previously married, so Clark may have not been
her maiden name.

James Wesley Alexander b. August 14, 1842 South Carolina d. April 23, 1911 at age 68, burial was at
Cypress Cemetery.

John S. Alexander b. About 1827 Sumter District, South Carolina d. July 25, 1852 Sumter District at
about age 25. One researcher once told me that it was thought his S stood for Singleton. I’ve seen
nothing to validate that claim.

Martha S. Alexander b. December 19, 1833 d. May 12, 1907 Lee County at age 73, m1. Daniel McLean
Before 1854, m2. Before 1857 Ephraim J. Fields d. August 1, 1858 m3. About 1866 to John J. Crosswell

Mary Ann Myriam Alexander b. March 4, 1820 Sumter District d. October 13, 1895 at age 75, m. About
1848 by Rev. J.H. Zimmerman of Kershaw District, South Carolina to Thomas Holland of Sumter District.
Burial: Myriam is buried at Salem Southern Methodist Church, Red Hill section of rural Bishopville, South
Carolina. On my last visit to the cemetery, I did not see a marked grave for Thomas, but that doesn’t
mean that it’s not there. Reportedly, Mary and her husband were blind, at least in their later
years. Their nephew, James Benjamin J.B. Alexander, a son of Mary’s brother Benjamin M. Alexander,
looked after them. J.B. is also buried at Salem near Mrs. Holland. Judging by the birth date of 1820 on
Mary’s brother Abijah Elijah Ebijah Alexander’s grave marker, it’s possible they may have been
twins. There were other twins within their family. A pair of related infant twins are buried near Mary.
Massey’s parents:

Jeremiah Belk b. About 1778 Cheraws District, South Carolina d. July 10, 1848 Darlington District, South
Carolina

Anna Mixon b. About 1769 Sumter District, South Carolina d. July, 10, 1848 Clay County, Mississippi.
Jeremiah and Anna married around 1803.
Massey was a twin to Miriam Belk who died November 13, 1832 at age 28.
Rev. Alexander was the first child of John and Mary Alexander, and the first born in South Carolina.
Previous to the Civil War, Abner owned thirteen slaves, ranging from ages ten through sixty.
He was once Pastor of the long-gone New Hope Methodist Church in the mid-1800s near what is now Carter’s
Crossing in Darlington County, not to be confused with Carter’s Crossroads in not-too-far-away Cartersville in Florence
County. An old, damaged, yet still used cemetery still exists at Carter’s Crossing.
Early on, Abner was a Methodist-Episcopal preacher and Pastor in old Sumter District and Darlington District, later
altered to become counties after the War Between the States. Mr. Alexander was an active member of the area
Methodist clergy, one of two sons of John and Mary Alexander who spread the word. The other was his younger
brother, Rev. John William Reese Alexander, known to parishioners as Uncle William.
Years ago there was a functional Stokes Bridge that crossed Lynches Creek, later becoming Lynches River. On
the northeast side of the bridge, the community became Stokes Bridge, home of Hebron Methodist Church, now Hebron
United Methodist Church, and several Alexanders. On the Bishopville side of the old bridge was St. Matthew Methodist
Church, now St. Matthew United Methodist Church. It was not a long distance between the two churches as the crow
flies. Both churches had Alexanders in their graveyards, ones who attended the individual churches. Back when the
Stokes Bridge was still standing, you could travel the road from one of those churches to the other. As a note, there’s
even a paved Alexander Road in Stoke Bridge community.
Abner’s name is found as a witness on the Last Will and Testament of Captain Peter DuBose, dated Monday,
August 3, 1846 (Will Book D-2 Page 199 Bundle 120 Package 8). It is known that Capt. DuBose and Abner’s father were
near neighbors, with the Captain living on the Bishopville side of the creek, and Abner’s parent’s family living on the
other side toward Hartsville in Darlington County on what is now U.S. Highway 15. The DuBose family ran a ferry at that
location for years, DuBose’s Ferry. The Captain’s family and John’s family were so close that Peter’s son, Middleton
DuBose, was the executor of Abner’s father’s Last Will and Testament. The will was witnessed by Capt. DuBose,
A.C.L.D. Belk, and Harriet DuBose Stokes, Peter's daughter. The document, read Friday, July 14, 1848 mentioned these
owned African-American slaves that were distributed (Darlington County Will Book 10, page 145), dated July 6, 1844:
Dinah; Easter; America; Jim; Rachel (there were possibly two females named Rachel); Aggy; Hannah; Leak; Griff; Tilda;
Nelly; Ira; Tinah; Sabry; Peter; Lewis; Stephen; Mourning; Juda; and Manson.
Massey’s father, Jeremiah Belk, was born previous to 1767 in the Darlington District. He married the former Anna
Mixon, previous to 1795. Anna was born during 1769 in that part of old Darlington District that eventually became
Darlington County, and later evolved into Lee County. A brother of Jeremiah Belk was Rigdon Belk, who was born
previous to 1760, and died in 1825. He was one of the original five trustees of Cypress Church in (then) Darlington
District, and now the location would be in Lee County. He and four other men put up a total of five dollars, a legally
needed token amount, to hypothetically pay for the land on which the church was already situated. The papers were
dated December 1827. All that’s left of Cypress Church is its cemetery.
Abner was co-executor of Jeremiah's estate. Mr. Belk's probate papers, dated Friday, July 14, 1848, left Abner's
family two young African-American males, Jonas and George. Also, two African-American men in trust for relatives,
Manson and Herod. Other slaves mentioned in his Will: Charles, a man; Dice, a woman; Andire, a boy; Tener, a girl;
Pat, a girl; Peter, a boy
Massey's grandfather, William Belk, a Kershaw District, South Carolina farmer, was born around 1742, and died in
Kershaw District. He married the former Hannah Darling in 1760 in Kershaw District.
Abner is known to have been a Local Preacher, but nothing I've found indicates that he was ever ordained.
Massey's name has been seen in mostly census records as Mary, Nicey, and Maisy. Census takers were horrific when it
came to spelling or understanding names given to them by anyone who was in the house during a survey. All of the
others of the household were out working in the fields during the day.
Abner and Massey's daughter, Harriette M. Alexander first married Henry A. Tiller, and after his death she
married W.J. Martin.
In a September 13, 1950 Sumter District listing of Productions of Agriculture records, Abner had 163 improved
acres of farm land, and 613 unimproved. His land cash value was $4,000. His farm and possessions were sizeable for
that day and time. Also in that document, he had 17 slaves, including 8 males. In the 1860 schedule he had more
slaves.
OBITUARY for Abner from Southern Christian Advocate September 6, 1871, written by Rev. Samuel A. Weber, a longtime
minister in the South Carolina Conference of the Methodist Episcopal Church, South. Weber was a 1859 graduate of
Wofford College, Spartanburg, South Carolina. The Advocate was a Methodist-Episcopal periodical of South Carolina,
Georgia, and Florida ministers. The obituary says that Abner was born in Darlington County, yet at the time he was
born, it was Darlington District. By 1871, that area had become Darlington County.
Rev. Abner Alexander was born in Darlington County, S.C., January 25th, 1796, and died in Sumter County, South
Carolina, June 13th, 1871.
Seventy-five years of human experience have been rarely devoted with such uniformity of purpose and with such
success to the best interests of humanity and of the Church, as those of my lately deceased friend and brother in
Christ. His life has been a good illustration of the words of the author of “Festus”: He lives most, who thinks most, feels
the noblest, acts the best.
He commenced the service to God early in life, and first as class leader and then as a local preacher, he served
his generation long and faithfully and well. With ordinary intellectual capacity, and with poor chances for its cultivation,
he was yet instilled, by diligence and prayer, to become a very acceptable and useful preacher. He was a man of one
book - that Book he prized highly and studied with a sanctified curiosity and with the meekness of a teachable child, as
he sat humbly at the feet of Jesus. He hence became “mighty in the Scriptures” and his preaching was largely of what
might be called the scriptural link, i.e., the presentation and proof of scriptural doctrines, by means of texts and
illustrations from the Bible. His ministry, while not popular nor brilliant, was yet sound and safe, and effective to the
accomplishment of good to those who went to the house of God to pray and hear, and went away to pray and do. It
was edifying. It was a means of building up the believer in faith and hope and love and holiness. He brought a strong
reinforcement to his public ministry, in the beautiful consistency of his daily life.
He preached in what he did, as well as what he said. His life was a sermon - is a sermon, for ”being dead he yet
speaketh”. His words and his works went hand-in-hand go hand-in-hand in their mission of truth and
righteousness. Venerable steward - his neighbor once remarked, “If I had to put my hand on the head of the best man
in the neighborhood, Abner Alexander would be that man.’ This verdict finds a ready echo in the entire community. A
good man has gone to his reward. To cherish his memory - to emulate his example - to follow him, as he followed Jesus
through life to heaven, be this our privilege and pleasure. It was his sad misfortune to lose his wife about nine months
before his death. His heath, having been on the decline for some time before, he was never able to rally after his
bereavement. He suffered greatly from depression of spirits - underrated his character and failed to realize, as he might
and should have done, the comforts and consolation of our holy religion. Nevertheless his hold on Christ was firm and
unshaken.
The following resolutions were unanimously adopted by his Quarterly Conference:
Whereas, it has pleased God in the wisdom of His Providence, to remove from our midst our brother in Christ Rev. Abner Alexander, and whereas the deceased was for a long time identified with this body;
Resolved:
1. That we deplore his death as a loss to the community and a calamity to the Church.
2. That we join in hearty condolence with family at his death and unite with them in the hope of reunion with him in the
mansions of the blessed.
3. That a page of our Journal be inscribed to the memory of our deceased brother.
4. That a copy of these resolutions be furnished the family and that a copy be sent to the Southern Christian Advocate
for publication.
OBITUARY for Abner from an article in what seems to be the Southern Christian Advocate. Entitled Sumter Circuit in
Olden Time, it was written by Rev. W.W. Mood. In the obituary article, previous to this excerpt, Rev. Mood was
describing Bethlehem Church, which was located, at what is now Bethlehem Cemetery, just northwest of Bishopville.
Rev. Abner Alexander, local Deacon, belonged here. He was universally respected and beloved. In conversation
he spoke very deliberately and quietly. In public prayer he was very fervent. He was always in accord with the traveling
ministry. There never was the slightest jar, and this satisfactory and pleasant. If I remember correctly, he had
appointment every Sabbath, sometimes going far from home. God made him a blessing to all in that country. I have
reason in after years to know his worth and to be satisfied as to his correct judgment in a matter which threatened the
peace, and, I was going to say, the existence, of Methodism in that country.
He had a heavy bereavement this year in the death of his son John.
OBITUARY for Abner July 5, 1871
DEATH OF REV. ABNER ALEXANDER
We regret to learn of the death, near Bishopville, S.C. on the 13th of June of this faithful preacher of the
gospel. He belonged to the local ministry, and did effective work. Having served his allotted time, he has been called to
receive his reward. - Christian Neighbor
OBITUARY for Massey from what appears to be the Southern Christian Advocate. Written by L. Wood, and including
others who had died in the Bishopville region at that time. You'll notice that the writer refers to Massey as Mary.
Sometimes the writers did not know the deceased.
…and, now, Mrs. Mary Alexander, wife of Rev. Abner Alexander, is numbered among the triumphant dead. What
a history is hers! She was born April 4th, 1804, joined the church in 1818, married in 1819, converted in 1820, afflicted
with rheumatism in its most violent chronic form since 1840, from which she has been unable to get out of the house
since 1860, and yet all the while by her vigorous intellect maintaining a wise control of her domestic affairs, as well as
preserving a bright religious faith and general knowledge of current events. She was smitten with paralysis about half
past 5 o'clock, p.m., Sunday the 18th Sept. 1870, while Rev. S.H. Browne, was leading the devotions of the family, in
connection with a few old friends, collected from a distance by our third quarterly conference. From this scene of prayer
she was carried in eight short hours, to one of rejoicing and praise.
United States Federal Census Reference:
1850 - September 13th. Sumter District, South Carolina. Abner's real estate was valued at $4,000, a somewhat
comfortable living for that day and time.

Abner Alexander, age 54 (head)

Massey Alexander, age 46 (wife)

John S Alexander, age 21 (son)

Israel J Alexander, age 18 (son)

Martha S Alexander, age 16 (daughter)

Harriet Alexander, age 14 (daughter)

Benj M Alexander, age 12 (son)

Heartwell Alexander, age 10 (son)

Jas W Alexander, age 7 (son)

Frances S Alexander, age 5 (daughter)
1860 - June 12th. Bishopville, Sumter District. Living either on the same land or next door was son Israel
Jefferson Alexander, age 28. Living just a short distance away was Abner and Massey's son Abijah Elijah Ebijah
Alexander, age 40, and his wife, the former Lydia Mixon Fields, age 39. According to the census, Abner had slaves
then. Israel Jefferson Alexander is not listed in the 1860 census, and would have been about two years old at that
time. In the census, Abner's real estate holdings were valued at approximately $6,000, his personal estate at $17, 375,
quite large for that day and time.

Abner Alexander, age 64 (head)

Massey Alexander, age 56 (wife)

Harriette M Alexander, age 24 (daughter)

Hartwell C Alexander, age 20 (son)

James W Alexander, age 17 (son)

Francis J Alexander, age 16 (daughter)

Henriette D Alexander, age 9 (daughter)
1870 - August 27th. Bishopville, Sumter County, South Carolina taken on the 27th of August, was the last for
Massey, who died twenty-four days later. Abner died the next year. Her name was misspelled in the survey, and
apparently the age was incorrect. Abner’s household was in same vicinity as grandson John Edward Alex Alexander’s
home. Abner was listed as a Clergyman.

Abner Alexander, age 75 (head)

Nicey Alexander, age 65 (wife)

James W Alexander, age 27 (son)

T J Alexander, age 20 (son)

H Alexander, age 12 (son)

John A McLellan, age 16
Photo: Rev. Abner M. Alexander
ANNA ANN ALEXANDER (TILLER) (RILEY) - Parents: John Alexander and Mary Polly Woodham
Born: About 1806 Sumter District, South Carolina
Died: About 1870 Washington County, Florida
Marriage 1: Before 1846 to William Tiller, Jr.
Born: About 1799 Sumter District
Died: April 3, 1840 Newville, Henry County, Alabama
Marriage 2: February 26, 1853 to Needham Riley in Henry County
Born: About 1799 Orange County, North Carolina
Died: About 1865 Washington County, Florida at about age 66
Burial: Possibly Washington County
Ann originally lived in Sumter District, married Mr. Tiller of the Kershaw District, and later moved on to Henry
County where her brother James Irvin Alexander, Sr. had moved from old Sumter District over a decade previous.
William Tiller reportedly died in Henry County, and later Ann married Needham Riley. She and Needham moved to
Washington County and in 1860 were serviced by Vernon Post Office in Washington County. I’ve never looked into it,
yet as a matter of reference, there is another Needham Riley buried at Old Center United Methodist Church, as well,
home of the same cemetery in which Ann's brother James and many of her kin are buried. The church and the historic
cemetery are located in the old Center community of rural Newville, adjacent to where James lived, farmed, and died.
Ann’s Needham was first married to Winifred Outlaw, a daughter of George Outlaw and Winifred (nee?). The
younger Winifred was born in 1805 in old Darlington District, South Carolina, a district next to old Sumter District. She
died in Dale County, Alabama, near Center community in Henry County, in 1852. Dale was earlier fashioned out of a
part of old Henry.
Ann and William's son Edmund B. Tiller, served as a Confederate in the Civil War, serving in Company E, Florida
11th Regiment as a full 3rd Corporal. He enlisted January 29th, 1863 in Westbay, Florida, and mustered out December
26, 1863 in Washington County, Florida. He married the former Caroline Davis, born 1842 in Alabama. They married in
Florida, however Edmund was widowed by the time of the 1910 U.S. Census in Wausau, Washington County. He had
three grown children listed in that survey, one daughter and two sons. His home was enumerated on April 15th in
Precinct 15 of Washington County.
United States Federal Census Reference:
1860 - June 27th. Vernon Post Office, Washington County. Ann, Needham, and 4 younger people were
surveyed. Another research indicates that Needham died that same year.

Needom Riley, age 71 (head)

Anna Riley, age 54 (wife)

Edmond Tiller, age 21 (stepson)

Craton Tiller, age 19 (stepson)

Pinkney Riley, age 17 (male - Ann's stepson)

Purtiman Tiller, age 9 (male – likely Ann’s grandson)
1870 - July 28th and 29th. Vernon Post Office. Needham has passed on since the last census, and Ann was the
head of household, living with what appears to be in handwritten script as Bettyman Tiller, possibly the same person as
9-year-old male Purtiman Tiller, named in the 1860 census. He was listed as a farmer, and she was a housekeeper. Her
age was off in this survey. She would have been about 64, based on her date of birth. Purtiman may have been a
grandchild from her first marriage.

Ann Riley, age 60 (head)

Bettyman Tiller, age 20 (possibly Purtiman)
ARIS ALEXANDER - Parents: John Alexander and Mary Polly Woodham
Born: About 1815 Sumter District, South Carolina
Died: Between June 18, 1870 and June 24, 1880 (census survey dates), likely in Mississippi
Marriage: In South Carolina around 1840 to the former Nicy J. Skinner in South Carolina
Born: About 1822 Sumter District
Died: Likely in Mississippi sometime after the 1880 United States Census of June 24th and 25th.
Burial: Not known by this research. Wife and likely widow Nicy is found as head of household in Attalla County,
Mississippi in the 1880 United States Federal Census, so he may buried there, or in or around the seat of Neshoba
County, Philadelphia.
Reportedly, Nicy’s parents were:

Lem (Lemuel?) Skinner

Nicy Jane (nee?)
Aris and Nicy have many descendants in Mississippi, seemingly scattered into different counties.
Many have listed Nicy’s name as Nicy Jane Skinner Alexander, but I’ve not seen proof that her middle name was
actually Jane, although the 1870 and 1880 censuses in Mississippi list her as Nicy J. Nicy Jane (nee?) Skinner was
reportedly her mother’s name, yet nothing I’ve seen substantiates that. Mrs. Alexander’s name was only spelled Nicey in
the 1850 census back in South Carolina. After that each census had her as Nicy.
United States Federal Census Reference:
1850 - September 9th. Second Division, Darlington District, South Carolina. Aris, his wife Nicy, and their three
South Carolina-born children were living on their own land in South Carolina, valued at $1,000. Aris was a farmer. His
father-in-law, Lemuel Skinner was living nearby, and other Skinners, as well as a Mixon family were listed as near
neighbors. Wife Nicy was listed with the same spelling in the survey as her mother. Also listed in the Lemuel Skinner
family were Mahaley Skinner, age 37, and Robert E. Price, age 3. The survey area was listed as Darlington County,
although counties did not come about until the latter half of the 1860s in that part of South Carolina. In most surveys,
enumerators would scratch out the printed word County and write in District.

Aris Alexander, age 35 (head)

Nicey Alexander, age 28 (wife)

James S Alexander, age 10 (male)

Leonard Alexander, age 7 (male)

Nancy Alexander, age 5 (female)
1860 - September 25th. Louisville Post Office, Winston County, Mississippi. In this survey, Aris’ real estate was
valued at $6,000, and his personal estate at $2,000. The survey listed Aris, Nicy, James, Leonard, and Nancy having
been born in South Carolina, with the older ones all born in Mississippi. Unlike the city in Kentucky, this Louisville is
pronounced Lewis-ville. Louisville is the seat of Winston County.

Aris Alexander, age 45 (head)

Nicy Alexander, age 38 (wife)

Jas Alexander, age 20 (male)

Leonard Alexander, age 17 (male)

Nancy Alexander, age 15 (female)

Jno Alexander, age 9 (male)

Wm Alexander, age 7 (male)

V W Alexander, age 4 (male)
1870 - June 18th. Philadelphia Post Office, Beat 2, Neshoba County (an adjacent county south of Winston
County), Mississippi. Aris' occupation had changed from being a farmer to operating a boarding house, and his real
estate value was now lower, at $1,000.

Aris Alexander, age 69 (Boarding house)

Nicy J Alexander, age 48 (Keeping house)

Nancy J Alexander, age 22 (female)

John H Alexander, age 19 (male)

Francis B Alexander, age 9 (male)

Margaret M Alexander, age 6 (female)

Joseph P Alexander, age 4 (male)
1880 – June 24th and 25th. Beat 2, Attalla County, Mississippi. Apparently, Aris had died since the last survey for
his family, and, after moving to a nearby county Nicy was now the head of household. Even though she was, the survey
still listed her as Keeping house. The two sons remaining in the home, Francis and Joe Pete were listed as laborers, and
daughter Margaret was listed as At home. Possibly, the family may have gone back to farming.

Nicy J Alexander, age 59 (head-Keeping house)

Francis B Alexander, age 19 (son)

Margaret M Alexander, age 16 (daughter)

Joseph P Alexander, age 13 (son)
Joseph Peter Alexander was known as Joe Pete. It is said that when he was buried, his grave was only marked
by a presumably too-heavy-to-move rock which everyone used to locate his grave. Apparently, a work crew went into
the cemetery, saw it as just a big rock, and removed it. Now, I’ve been told, no one is sure exactly sure of the location.
CORNELIA CAROLINE ALEXANDER (HALL) - Parents: John Alexander and the former Mary Polly Woodham
Born: About 1823
Died: November 18, 1898 at about age 75
Marriage: William James Big Jim Hall, a son of William Hall b. About 1790 North Carolina and Judith Judy Brannon
b. About 1792 South Carolina
Born: About 1822 South Carolina
Died: June 24, 1889 at about age 67
Burial: High Hill True Light Cemetery, near Lucknow, Lee County, South Carolina.
The Halls had several children, but names mostly were missing, just initials. Only one child’s information can be
easily ascertained and differentiated from the confusing census survey initials, ages, and genders.

Piety Caroline Hall b. March 9, 1859 d. April 14, 1940 at age 81 m. John Benjamin Stephens b. June
22, 1858 d. June 18, 1940 at age 81. Burial: Both at High Hill True Light Cemetery. Piety's death
certificate states that she died on the 15th, not the 14th.
In father John Alexander’s Last Will and Testament he referred to Caroline as Carolina, but it may have been a
bad transcribing of the document, possibly by an employee of the Workers Progress Administration (WPA). Also, it may
have been misunderstood by the person who took dictation for the will, a nickname her father used for her, or possibly
her actual name. He also referred to daughter Mary as Mary Magee, whose actually spelling was McGee.
United States Federal Census Reference:
1860 - June 26th. Tiller's Ferry Post Office, Second Division, Kershaw County, South Carolina. Jim was a
planter. The entire family was born in South Carolina.

W J Hall, age 38 (head)

C C Hall, age 35 (wife)

M Hall, age 14 (female)

W D Hall, age 12 (female - Census error: W.D. was a male)

Ervin Hall, age 8

M S Hall, age 6 (male)

P C Hall, age 1 (female)
1870 - August 26th. Tiller's Ferry Post Office, Buffalo, Kershaw County. Jim was a farmer.

William J Hall, age 48 (head)

Caroline C Hall, age 45 (wife)

Judith A Hall, age 23 (daughter)

Erwin E Hall, age 16 (son)

Shelton M Hall, age 15 (son)

Piety C Hall, age 12 (daughter)

Lydda L Hall, age 9 (daughter)

Abraham L Hall, age 5 (son)
1880 - June 7th. Tiller's Ferry Post Office, Buffalo, Kershaw County.






J W Hall, age 58 (head)
C Carolina Hall, age 55 (wife)
D D W Hall, age 32 (son)
C P Hall, age 21 (daughter)
D L V Hall, age 18 (daughter)
L A Hall, age 15 (daughter)
Note: The census takers for 1860 and 1880 apparently weren’t interested in getting names and genders correct. Looks like this
household had some bad luck with enumerators. Good luck figuring out who’s who. Also, keep in mind that earlier censuses, i.e. 1860,
did not signify relationships, just gender, if even correct. Confusing. The only person other than the parents who came close to being
identified correctly was Piety Caroline Hall.
ELIZABETH J. ALEXANDER - Parents: John Alexander and Mary Polly Woodham
Born: About 1828 Sumter District, South Carolina
Died: January 1855 Sumter District at around age 27
Marriage: None known by this research
ERVIN M. ALEXANDER - Parents: John Alexander and Mary Polly Woodham
Born: About 1822 Sumter District, South Carolina
Died: Possibly, about 1856 Darlington District, South Carolina
Marriage: None known
Ervin seems to have been the one who stayed closest to his father and mother during their lives.
United States Federal Census Reference:
1850 - September 21st. Sumter District at the home of John Alexander, who died about 4 years earlier in
1846. John’s wife Mary is found living with son Ervin, who was listed as a Planter on his mother's farm. The term
planter is mostly described as the head person of the farm or plantation. Mary's real estate was valued at $1,800. The
survey stated that Mary and Ervin were born in South Carolina.

Mary Alexander, age 73 (head)

Ervin M Alexander, age 28 (son)
Mrs. FRANCES (nee?) ALEXANDER (matriarch of this line) - Frances' parents, maiden name, and husband's name are not known
to this research
Born: Estimated 1753, likely in North Carolina or Virginia
Died: 1820 Sumter District, South Carolina
Marriage: Mr. Alexander's first name unknown to this research
Burial: Not known by this research, yet thought to be in the destroyed and defunct Woodham Cemetery in Stokes
Bridge, Lee County, South Carolina, on private land, just outside of Bishopville, and reportedly still owned by a member
of the Woodham family
Frances’ children:

Mary Margaret Polly Alexander b. About 1774 North Carolina d. After May 28, 1838 in eastern-central
Mississippi m. Paris Hickman, a son of William Hickman of Kershaw District, South Carolina

John Alexander b. About 1775 d. 1846 Darlington District, South Carolina m. Mary Polly Woodham,
daughter of Edward Woodham, Jr. and the former Mary Aires.
Frances, a widow and earliest known member of this lineage, did not leave much of an easily-searchable paper
trail, and her husband, none. Because the dates of known facts concerning Mrs. Alexander fit the events of that day and
time, it’s possible that Mr. Alexander, first name unknown, may have been a casualty of the Revolutionary War. Also not
known by this research are the names of Frances’ parents.
The late Robert Earl Woodham of Columbus, Georgia, a Woodham family researcher with whom I used to stay in
communication had spearheaded a small organization known as the Woodham Family Association. It had been
organized to possibly revitalize the Woodham Family Cemetery in the Dale County, Alabama section called Newton. The
cemetery was in pretty bad shape, and according to Robert Earl the Association restored it somewhat. Many of the
Woodhams and their descendants who migrated from the Stokes Bridge section of old Darlington District, South
Carolina, were buried there. Robert Earl started suffering from heart trouble, and never got to fulfill his dream of
revitalizing the Woodham Family Cemetery in South Carolina, and once told me that he and his organization met with
opposition by the then owner who didn’t see it their way. It is now said to be destroyed with several Alexanders
believed to be buried there, as well. Among those are Frances, John Alexander, Mary Polly Woodham Alexander, Edward
Woodham, Sr. and Jr., their wives, and who knows who else. We’ll likely never know. The cemetery certainly seems to
have been plowed and farmed, what genealogists term as destroyed. Years ago, I was told by the late Historian of the
Darlington County Historical Commission, Horace Fraser Rudisill, that South Carolina's law on cemeteries, paraphrased,
states that a cemetery that has had no one buried in it, and has not been maintained over a period of seventy years,
may be plowed for farming use. This drives genealogy people nuts, and I haven’t talked to anyone who agrees with that
law. It may have been changed by now, but I doubt it. As I’ve been told, the graveyard's former site is about two miles
south of Hebron United Methodist Church in Stokes Bridge. I haven’t actually seen it, but one of my first cousins and an
aunt said they did, and it was a cornfield at the time.
While living in old Dobbs County, North Carolina in the first United States Federal Census survey for North
Carolina in 1790, Frances had already received some sort of land grant or purchase, one hundred-thirty acres, in old
Sumter District, South Carolina in a portion of what is now in Bishopville proper. The tract is located near the corner of
today’s intersection of West Church Street and Denny’s Pond Road, just a few blocks from downtown Bishopville, and
near, if not in, the city limit.
Son John Alexander and Frances’ son-in-law Paris Hickman, sold Frances’ land following her death. Some of the
properties surrounding Frances' land were owned by Jacob Chambers, Dennis McLendon, William Mixon, Samuel Ratliff,
Ann Dixon, and Samuel Chandler. Dates of those land acquisitions surrounding Frances’ land are not known by this
research. Again, her property was surveyed in 1786.
John Alexander moved on to land himself in old Salem, 500
acres. That leads one to believe that Frances and John both may have received grants due to the death of the unknown
Mr. Alexander in the Revolution. John later moved to the Darlington District side of, and near Lynches Creek at the
south section of Stokes Bridge.
The survey for Frances' land was accompanied by the following record: I have caused to be (writing illegible) and
laid out unto Frances Alexander, a tract of land containing one hundred and thirty acres situate in the District of Camden
in Spring Branch waters of Lynches Creek and both such marks, buttings, and boundings as above plot
represents. Certified for the 5th of December, 1786. - Ephraim Mitchell That survey is available at the South Carolina
Department of Archives and History in Columbia.
I don't know exactly how, but it seems somehow that Frances was in some way tied in to the Woodhams from
back in old Dobbs County, North Carolina, other than through son John Alexander’s marriage to the former Mary Polly
Woodham. When Frances made her journey into South Carolina from North Carolina, she traveled with son John,
daughter Mary Margaret, Mary Woodham Wiggins (a sister of Edward Woodham, Jr., father of Mary Polly Woodham),
and Mary Woodham Wiggins’ son Daniel Wiggins who remained in that area of South Carolina until his mother died, then
migrated to Washington County, Georgia, and later to the now defunct seat of old Henry County, Alabama named
Richmond, now Grimes, in Dale County. Mrs. Mary Woodham Wiggins died in Una, Sumter District, South Carolina in
1822.
Frances may, have been born in Surry County, Virginia, based on extremely scant evidence. In this research, the
lineage of this Alexander clan can currently be traced back only to her, except for one possibility. Although Frances’
father’s name is not known, a family baby book, in the possession of a descendant of Rev. Abner M. Alexander (elder
son of John Alexander) had some handwritten names on a page that included Frances Alexander’s name. A William, and
a Samuel Welch of Virginia were written in no particular order, and did not seem to explain much of anything, so they
are actually only names on a page, with nothing more to back them up. The page named a William beside Frances’
name, listing him as born in 1726 and died in 1783. Samuel Welch of Virginia might have been Frances’ father. Who
actually knows? There was a Samuel Welch born around 1730 in Surry County, Virginia, who reportedly served in the
American Revolution. The dates are in the right position to be a possible parent of Frances. A cousin, the former Mary
Alexander Jensen of South Carolina made the baby book contact, and passed the information on to me a few years
ago. The page was reportedly in a baby book of Kathryn Alexander Kay Wagener, a descendant of Frances’ through her
son John, through his son Abner M., through his son Abijah Elijah Ebigah, through his son Edward, through his daughter
Katie, and on. According to the same evidence, whatever John’s name was listed on that page had the name Dewitt
close to it. In an earlier writing, I related the same information about the Dewitt name, and several amateur
genealogists copied that information, and started reporting that his middle name was indeed Dewitt. Unless that
information has been proven, it is still subjective information, not proven.
United States Federal Census Reference:
1790 - Dobbs County, North Carolina was Frances’ location in the 1st United States Federal Census. At that time
her land in South Carolina had already been surveyed (1786). The earliest surveys were a mere head count, not names,
except for the Head of household.

1 – Free white male under 16 years old

2 – Free white females including heads of family

0 - Slaves
1800 - Frances is found in the survey for Salem, Sumter District, South Carolina as Head of
Household. Neighbors of Frances Alexander listed as surveyed before her were, closest to the farthest: William Whitley,
John Phillips, and Shadrick Phillips. Listed after her name were, closest to the farthest: James Kelly; William Stokes, Sr.;
and William Stokes, Jr. Nearby were James Galloway, John Hicks, and Thomas Davis, Sr. Again, the Census Bureau
only wanted a head count, so numbers were the only indicators, except for Frances’ name.

1 - Free white male 16-25 years old

1 - Free white male female 26-44 years old

1 - Household member over 25 years old

2 - Members in the household
JAMES IRVIN ALEXANDER, SR. - Parents: John Alexander and Mary Polly Woodham
Born: June 17, 1812 Sumter District, South Carolina at age 80
Died: August 22, 1892 Henry County, Alabama
Marriage: January 10, 1833 Elizabeth Jane Stokes
Born: March 7, 1817 Kershaw District, South Carolina
Died: November 21, 1899 Alabama at age 82
Burial: Center United Methodist Church, rural Newville, Henry County, not far from the Dale County line. The
church's cemetery is listed as a historical cemetery in Alabama, and has a historical sign beside the road indicating it as
such. The church is often referred to as Old Center Church, and even has historical signs in front of the cemetery, Old
Center Cemetery.
Known children:
1. James Irvin Jim Alexander, Jr. b. October 6, 1842 Alabama d. October 18, 1900 at age 58 m. December
11, 1866 to Martha Ann Marilda Wiggins in Henry County, Alabama. The marriage was licensed
December 3rd. They’re buried at Center UMC. Inscription: We have fought the good fight, we have kept
the faith, we have finished our course.
2. William Christopher Alexander b. October 5, 1834 South Carolina d. Civil War
3. Mary Jane Alexander b. July 27, 1836 d. After 1854 m. April 27, 1854 to John F. Wiggins b. January 15,
1834 d. Civil War
4. John Henry Alexander b. October 9, 1838 Alabama d. Civil War
5. Wesley Greenburg Alexander b. October 29, 1847 Alabama d. September 24, 1852 at age 4 years 10
months. Burial: Center UMC near his parents
6. Malissa Anzilla Alexander b. October 8, 1847 d. About 1877 m. April 11,
1867 to Andrew Jackson Huggins b. About 1844 d. About 1887
7. Calvin B. Alexander b. August 18, 1851 d. July 18, 1882 m. November 7,
1869 to Ann Harris. Burial at Center UMC. Inscription: An honest man is
8.
the noblest work of God.
Abner Asbury Alexander b. May 21, 1854 d. November 21, 1899 m. Eugenia
Frances Sis Harrison. Burial: Northern Florida. Abner was a Confederate
soldier.
9. Margaret Susan Alexander b. January 31, 1858 d. January 11, 1918 at age
59 m. Willis Carroll. Burial: Center UMC. Inscription: Gone but not
forgotten.
10. Lizar J. Alexander b. About 1867. Burial: Center UMC in the same section
as her parents. A person who is researching the Wiggins, family, tied in
with James' family, says that Lizar lived until age 13. I’m guessing that she
was a Lizar Jane, as her mother was Elizabeth Jane.
11. Robert Ellis Alexander b. October 7, 1945 d. December 24, 1946 at age 1 year 2 months. Burial: Center
UMC near his parents.
Jane’s parents:

Henry E. Stokes b. March 27, 1792 Salem, Sumter District, South Carolina d. September 22, 1856 Henry
County, Alabama

Margaret Elizabeth Tiller b. February 27, 1797 d. 1858 Henry County. No sign of a marker at this point,
but burial for both is reportedly at Center UMC.
It appears that Henry and Elizabeth Stokes had eleven children. They lived a portion of their lives in Kershaw
District, South Carolina. They married in 1815.
James, a farmer, was one of many people in his area of Alabama who formerly lived in old Sumter District, South
Carolina, and sold his land there to move on to Henry County in 1836, following the removal of the Creek Indians from
that area. Most of the Indians were relocated to reservations in Oklahoma. Land in that portion of Alabama is said to
have sold for as low as about $1.25 per acre. He bought a sizeable farm, and purchased additional adjacent land more
than once.
To this day James and Jane have descendants living on their old land, as well as descendants who moved into
nearby Dale and Houston counties of southeastern Alabama. Those are areas that were once part of the old Henry
County. He also has and had descendants who, for whatever reason, headed to Washington County, the Chipley area in
Florida, Florida’s Panhandle.
Records indicate that James purchased land on September 20, 1939 of 39.875 acres at Section 35, Township 7-N,
Range 27-E, St. Stephens Meridian, Henry County, Alabama. On July 15, 1854 he purchased 39.99 acres in Section 23,
Township 6-N, Range 26-E, St. Stephens Meridian, Henry County, Alabama. On the 1st of November, 1858, James
bought 200 acres of land. The latter transaction was located in four parts: Section 23, Section 23, Section 23, and
Section 26. All of them were described as Township 6-N, Range 26-E, St. Stephens Meridian, Henry County, Alabama.
James is considered Senior because his son, James Irvin Jim Alexander was referred to in a census record as
being James Irvin Alexander, Jr.
He and Jane had a large family, and even fostered a couple of Grimes children, orphans of a widowed
schoolteacher mother. James was a seemingly educated and knowing man himself, a schoolteacher, a Justice of the
Peace, an administrator of wills, and a Master Mason (Freemason), attending the now defunct Lodge in nearby Echo,
Dale County, Alabama.
Jane's father:

Henry E. Stokes. He and his family migrated from South Carolina to Henry County, Alabama, and
made a land purchase of 163.16 acres in Henry August 15, 1837, located at Township 7-N; Range 27E; Section 21.
United States Federal Census Reference:
1850 - November 2nd. Southern District, Henry County.

Jas Alexandria, age 37 (head)

Jane Alexandria, age 32 (wife)

Wm C Alexandria, age 16 (son)

Mary Alexandria, age 14 (daughter)

John H Alexandria, age 12 (son)

James I Alexandria, age 11 (son)

Wesley Alexandria, age 3 (son)

Malissa Alexandria, age 1 (daughter)
1860 - June 11th. Cureton Bridge Post Office, Freemans Beat 9, Henry County.

James Alexander, age 47 (head)

Elizabeth J Alexander, age 43 (wife)

William C Alexander, age 23 (son)

John H Alexander, age 21 (son)

James I Alexander, age 17 (son)

Malissa Ann Alexander, age 10 (daughter)

Calvin Alexander, age 8 (son)

Abner A Alexander, age 5 (son)

Margaret S Alexander, age 3 (daughter)
1870 - The James Alexanders were found this go-round in Abbeville Post Office, Precinct 9, Henry County.

James Alexander, age 58 (head)

Elizabeth Alexander, age 53 (wife)

Mary Alexander, age 34 (daughter)

Ebner Alexander, age 16 (son)

Margaret Alexander, age 12 (daughter)
1880 - June 17th. Cureton Bridge Post Office, Beat 7 Henry County.

James Alexander, age 68 (head)

Elizabeth Alexander, age 63 (wife)

Margret Alexander, age 22 (daughter)

Lizar J Alexander, age 13 (daughter)
Photos: James and Jane Stokes Alexander. James Alexander
JANE ALEXANDER (DAVIS) - Parents: John Alexander and Mary Polly Woodham
Born: About 1810 Sumter District, South Carolina
Died: About 1880 South Carolina at around age 70
Marriage: Before 1846 to Samuel Davis
Born: About 1805 South Carolina
The couple was the parents of Thomas Howard Davis b. March 4, 1827 Sumter District d. June 1, 1893 Una,
Darlington County, South Carolina at age 64. Burial: Samuel and Jane’s graves haven’t been located by this research,
however Thomas is buried at Hebron United Methodist Church, Stokes Bridge, Bishopville, Lee County, South Carolina.
His parents may also be buried there in unmarked graves. Back in the 1800s, many people were buried with wooden
markers that only held up a few decades. The best ones were made with Cypress, but even they rotted away over time.
The couple has been nearly impossible to find.
JOHN ALEXANDER This report's eldest male ancestor, and son of widow Mrs. Frances (nee?) Alexander. Father’s name unknown.
Born: About 1774 Dobbs County, Newbern District, North Carolina
Died: Later Summer or early Autumn in 1846 Darlington District, South Carolina
Marriage: Estimated 1795 Darlington District to Mary Polly Woodham
Born: About 1777 Dobbs County North Carolina
Died: About 1856 Darlington District, South Carolina at approximately age 79
Burial: Likely both in the destroyed Woodham Cemetery, Stokes Bridge, Lee County, South Carolina
John and Mary's known children:

Abner M. Alexander

Ann Alexander

Aris Alexander

Cornelia Caroline Alexander

Elizabeth J. Alexander

Ervin M. Alexander

James Irvin Alexander, Sr.

Jane Alexander

John William Reese Alexander

Mary Alexander

Mary Susanna Susan Alexander
Polly Alexander's parents:

Edward Woodham, Jr. b. About 1746 Prince George County, Virginia d. Sumter District in a part that is
now Lee County m. About 1763 North Carolina. Mr. Woodham was a Revolutionary War soldier, farmer,
and businessman. Before moving into South Carolina he lived in the Falling Creek community of old
Dobbs County, North Carolina, which eventually became part of Lenoir County

Mary Polly Aires b. About 1755 d. Darlington County, South Carolina. Burial: Both likely in the
desecrated Woodham Cemetery, Stokes Bridge, Bishopville, Lee County, South Carolina
Mary's paternal grandparents:

Edward Woodham, Sr. b. Between 1700 and 1720 Charles City County, Virginia d. About 1784

Eleanor Ellen Dupree b. About 1720, possibly Virginia d. Early 1800s, Darlington District, South Carolina
m. About 1739 Virginia. Burial: Both said to be buried in Lenoir County, North Carolina in that section
that was formerly Dobbs County.
Mary’s paternal great grandfather:

Thomas Woodham b. About 1666, Charles City County, Virginia
John Alexander was a well-respected member of his community, one of the who’s who, and one of the founding
fathers of what is now the still-active Bethlehem United Methodist Church, Lee County, South Carolina. According to
United States Federal Census records, John was termed a planter. Historians say that the word planter was used in
place of farmer when the person owned a higher number of acres of land and slaves, as in a person who owned a
plantation.
When John first settled in old Salem (later Bishopville) of Sumter District, he had 500 acres of land, and his
children were born there. Later on, he moved across Lynches Creek, which was then the border between Sumter District
and Darlington District. His new home in Darlington District was near Captain Peter DuBose’s family who lived on the
Sumter District side of the creek. The DuBoses also operated a ferry across the creek, which later became a river. The
location of the ferry was where U.S. 15 now runs to the northeast between Bishopville in Lee County, and Hartsville in
Darlington County. The bridge across Lynches River is now called DesChamps Bridge. John’s home was considered to
be in the Stokes Bridge community.
Another pre-bridge ferry in that same location, previous to DuBose’s Ferry, was McCallum’s Ferry. There is a
historical marker by U.S. 15 on the right of way next to the old DuBose property, designating the site of the family’s
cemetery which has been plowed around over the years, leaving only a very small plot of land with only one marked
grave, that of the Captain.
John and brother-in-law Paris Hickman sold Frances Alexander's property following her death in 1820. The
transaction took place on January 5, 1821 (Sumter District Deed Book FF, page 74).
As a sign of the times, John attended an estate sale for his neighbor Micah Mixon, and he bought a pine chest for
$7.05, a safe at $9.05, one iron chain that cost him a dollar, a sitting chair for 52 cents, and 3 barrels at $3.00.
In the March 10, 1949 edition of the Lee County Messenger, the late Bishopville historian, Joseph Freeman Joe
Stuckey wrote an article called Early History of Bishopville and Vicinity, available at the South Caroliniana Library on the
Horseshoe of the University of South Carolina downtown campus. In it, he told of what he knew of John and his
family. It is listed under the heading Lee County Families.
John’s Last Will and Testament was signed April 22, 1845 and was filed September 5, 1846 in Sumter County
(Bundle 128, Package 4). He stipulated in his will that in the event of his death, Rainey, one of his slaves, was to be
rented to pay any debts owed. According to some of the records I’ve seen, son William ended up with Rainey, and
sometimes after they were freed, they would stay with their former masters because they had nowhere else to go.
Slaves and their increase were willed by John to be divided between his six daughters after his and his wife's
deaths.
Six other slaves were listed in the will: Jacob; Solomon; Chloe; George (a youth); Dick; and Charlotte
At the time his will was drawn, John Alexander owned: 12 horses; 1 colt; 17 stock hogs; 10 meat hogs; 12 head
of cattle; and crops.
Some of the friends, neighbors, and contemporaries named in John’s probate papers were the Who's Who of that
area and time: John Mixon; Jeremiah Belk (Abner M. Alexander's father-in-law); Middleton DuBose (a son of Capt. Peter
DuBose, friend of John, and executor of John’s Will; M. Filing; M. Belk; ? Beasley; J. Fields; and James Heron.
In 1854, probate accounting records concerning stated that money was paid to John’s children: Abner M.
Alexander (son); James Irvin Alexander (Sr.) (son); John William Reese Alexander (son); Jane Alexander Davis
(daughter); Cornelia Caroline Alexander Hall (daughter); Susannah Susan Alexander Stuckey (daughter) (her widower,
Capt. John Wesley Stuckey was administrator for their children); Mary Alexander McGee (daughter); and Anna Alexander
Riley (daughter)
In an 1855 accounting, each of these sons received $71.75: Abner M. Alexander; James Irvin Alexander (Sr.);
John William Reese Alexander; Aris Alexander; and Ervin M. Alexander
Buyers at John's estate sale on August 16, 1852 in Sumter District, South Carolina (bundle 133, package 17):
Abijah Elijah Alexander (grandson); Abner M. Alexander (son); John William Reese Alexander (son); John Denacy; John
C. Dennis; Abel Dixon; D.A. Dixon; Ezekiel Dixon; John H. Dixon; E. DuBose; M. DuBose (likely Middleton DuBose, John's
Will executor); Dorcas Elmore; John Folsom; T.J. Green; James Hall (likely Caroline Alexander’s husband); William Hall
(likely James Hall's father); William H. Holleyman; Thomas Kelley; J.A. McGee; John McGee; T.M. Muldrow; B.A.J.
Scarborough; and J.W. Stuckey (likely John Wesley Stuckey, Susan Alexander Stuckey’s widower
Dick, one of the family’s slaves, was sold at that estate sale, and monies were disposed of to: Jeremiah Belk;
Willis Josey; J.W. Stuckey; William Rogers; George Kelley; J.A. (Last name illegible, possibly McGee); Richard Jenkins;
Stephen Woodham; John H. Dixon; James Rembert; and Ezekiel Dixon.
Over thirty years after John's death, his former neighborhood was the site of one of the more famous duels in the
old South, the Cash-Shannon Duel. A historical marker which is erected on U.S. Highway 15 near Lynches River reads
This was the site of the last fatal duel fought in South Carolina, in which Colonel E.B.C. Cash of Cash's Depot killed a
William M. Shannon of Camden on July 5, 1880. This tragedy influenced the South Carolina Legislature to enact a law
later that year in December making dueling a crime, and requiring public officials to swear that they had not been in a
duel.
Son-in-law John Alexander was the administrator of Edward Woodham, Jr.'s will and estate.
I believe that John and Mary are buried in the destroyed Woodham Family Cemetery in the Stokes Bridge
community, of rural Bishopville, Lee County. Not likely, but alternatively, they could possibly be buried in the old singlemarker cemetery of Capt. Peter DuBose, known to have been the DuBose family cemetery, not far away from the
Woodham Family Cemetery site, on the Bishopville side of Lynches River. John and the Captain's families were near
neighbors, as well as close friends, in fact, Capt. DuBose’s son, Middleton, was the executor of John’s Last Will and
Testament. Either way, their graves have been desecrated over the years. John, age-wise, was between Capt. DuBose
and Middleton. It’s more likely that the Woodham Cemetery is John and Polly’s final resting place, as Mary Polly
Woodham Alexander’s family is buried there.
LAST WILL AND TESTAMENT - Capitalization, spelling, and punctuation are all written in either the original documents or
by an earlier, unknown transcriber, possibly a Workers Progress Administration (WPA) employee. A statement made in
this Testament questions whether John still owned land on the Bishopville side on Lynches Creek adjoining Peter
DuBose’s property on the Bishopville side. It’s hard to tell what he meant by the word adjoining, because the creek was
not yet officially a river and may have been a real obstacle.
Estate of John Alexander decd. Last Will and Testament
JUDGE OF PROBATE'S OFFICE, SUMTER, SOUTH CAROLINA
State of South Carolina
Sumter District
In the name of God amen. I John Alexander of the State and district aforesaid planter being old and infirm but of
perfect mind and memory Thanks be to God for his mercies call into mind the mortality of my body do make and ordain
this instrument to be my last will and testament in manner and form as follows (Viz.) Principally and first of all I recommend
my soul into the hands of God who gave it and my body to be buried in a decent Christian like manner and as touching
such worldly estate as it hath pleased God to bless me with I give and dispose of in the following (Viz.) First I desire all
my lawful debts to be paid I desire if lawful for one or more of my slaves to be hired out until my debts are paid if this
cannot be approved of according to law I wish my Executors to sell one Negro and pay the debts. Secondly I lend to my
beloved wife Mary Alexander, all my slaves (Viz.) Raner, Jacob, Solomon, Cloe, George, Dick, and Charlotte and their
increase during her natural life and after her death to be equally divided between my six daughters to wit Ann Tiller, Mary
Magee (McGee), Susanna Stuckey, Elizabeth Alexander, Cornelia Carolina Alexander, and Jane Davis in trust of my
indubitable friends Asa Woodham and Middleton DuBose for their use and benefit and their children prohibiting at same
their husbands or any other person or persons of any power to sell or dispose of said Negro slaves in any manner shape
or form but for their sole use and benefit I also give my daughters Elizabeth and Cornelia C. Alexander each one horse
bridle and saddle each one cow and calf each one feather bed and furniture I further lend my wife Mary Alexander the
lands and tenements thereon I now live with one other tract called the Barnes or mill tract to have and to hold all and
singular the above lands during her natural life together with all my stock hogs cattle the crop that may be growing on the
premises or gathered and also all the horses that I have not otherwise disposed of and my house hold and kitchen furniture
and plantation tools declare the above land and stock and other things named to be sold and equally divided between my
five sons (Viz.) Abner Alexander James Alexander Aris Alexander John W. Alexander Ervin M. Alexander I now give one
other tract or parcel of land adjoining Peter DuBose land formerly a part of the land formerly a tract of the ++ to be
equally divided between my two sons Aris Alexander and Ervin M. Alexander Aris Alexander part to go to the use and
benefit of his children I do hereby constitute make and ordain my trusty friends Asa Woodham and Middleton DuBose my
sole executors of this my last will and testament. I hereby utterly disallow revoke and dis-annul every other former will
and testament by me made. Ratifying this and no other to be my last will and testament. In witness whereof I have
hereunto put my hand and seal this twenty second April one thousand eight hundred and forty five. And in the sixty ninth
year of the Independence of the United States of America.
John Alexander
Signed sealed and acknowledged John Alexander (seal) in the presence of day and above written Peter DuBose,
A.C.L.D. Belk, Harriet Stokes
United States Federal Census Reference:
1850 - September 21st. Sumter District, South Carolina at the former home
of John Alexander, who died about 4 years earlier in 1846, and the current Head of
Household, John’s widow, Mary Polly Woodham Alexander, who was living with son
Ervin. Polly is believed to have died about six years later. Ervin was listed as a
planter on his mother's farm. The farm was valued at $1,800. Both were listed on
the survey as born in South Carolina, but Polly was actually born in North Carolina.
Ervin was born in South Carolina.

Mary Alexander, age 73 (head)

Ervin M Alexander, age 28 (son)
Rev. JOHN WILLIAM REESE ALEXANDER - Parents: John Alexander and Mary Polly
Woodham
Born: January 24, 1819 Sumter District, South Carolina now the modernday Bishopville area in Lee County
Died: February 9, 1899 Darlington County, South Carolina at age 80
Marriage 1: 1837 at age 18 in Darlington, Darlington County to Delilah Alexandra Liley Kea
Born: Reportedly December 12, 1821 Darlington District
Died: Reportedly December 20, 1851 at 30 years of age.
Marriage 2: December 16, 1852 to the former Martha Anne E. Parnell, reportedly a daughter of Israel C. Parnell
and Fannie Saverance.
Born: May 21, 1833
Died: February 28, 1891 at age 57
Burial: William is seemingly buried alone at Newman Swamp Methodist Cemetery, Lamar, Darlington County. His
barely-readable grave inscription: Rejoice for a brother deceased… our loss is his infinite gain. A soul out of prison
released and freed from his bodily chain. With songs let us follow his flight and mount with his spirit above. It took me
a while, along with help from my first cousin Mary Alexander Jensen and my late aunt Mildred Alexander Powers to
figure that one out. Another inscription on the same marker states: Age 80 yrs 15 days. His marker is made out of a
widely-used composite material that normally erodes, and has. Neither the graves of Delilah or Anne have been found
by this research. It’s possible that they both are in unmarked graves. I feel as though Delilah was buried at Cypress
Cemetery and Anne was buried at Newman Swamp Methodist Cemetery. Both of those are somewhat educated
guesses.
William and Delilah's children:

Mary Alexander

Abner Alexander

Elizabeth C. Lizzie Alexander

John Wesley Alexander
Delilah Kea Alexander's parents:

Thomas Kea b. July 26, 1792 Duplin, Sampson County, North Carolina d. October 5, 1835 Stokes Bridge,
Darlington District

Lenore Lanie Johnson b. January 14, 1812
Thomas Kea is said by a faction of the modern-day Kea family to have apprenticed to become a sailor, but gave
up his sea-going ambition to farm instead. He is thought to have entered the Darlington District of South Carolina
around 1811.
Her paternal grandfather:

Robert Kea
William and Anne's only known child:

Frances Gamewell Alexander
Martha Anne E. Parnell Alexander's parents:

Israel C. Parnell

Frances Scott Fannie Saverance
At some time after November 5, 1843, Elizabeth C. Lizzie Alexander's date of birth in South Carolina, William and
his family moved to Henry County in southeastern Alabama where his older brother James, and sister Ann Alexander
Tiller (who later married a Riley) had already settled. James sold his land in Sumter District during 1836 to relocate to
Henry. Many in Sumter District to heading west for low-priced land and new adventures. William and family, however
were back in South Carolina in time for the 1850 United States Federal Census. The reason may have been Liley's
unknown malady that led to her passing in 1851. Just guessing. The family, including Liley, was listed in the 1850
census.
An addition note on Delilah’s burial, although I’ve searched several times, and had others search, we haven’t
found a marker for Liley, it likely that she’s buried at Cypress Cemetery in now Lee County, where she once attended
church. If she was buried in the earlier Cypress Cemetery, not too far away, all of the bodies that were moved were
marked. I did find one small marker that was nearly impossible for me to read, and was quite blackened.
Nicknamed Uncle William by mostly church congregations on his circuit, William was what was termed at the time
as a Local Preacher, one sanctioned by the South Carolina Methodist Conference to fill-in and preach anywhere, anytime,
when the regular minister was not available, or when a church was between Pastors. The preachers normally were part
of the region’s circuit, and in William’s day that was mostly the Florence Circuit.
I’ve never quite completely understood William’s formal status in the clergy. Years ago, my research mentor, the
late Darlington County Historical Commission Historian, Horace Fraser Rudisill, wrote a newspaper article (publication
unknown by this research) stating that William was ordained, but other research has so far been inconclusive. Later,
when talking to him about that I got the impression that he was not quite still sure. He never said he was wrong, and
that was several years after the article. Another Historian, Herbert Hucks, Jr., then with the South Carolina Methodist
Archives at Sandor-Teszler Library, Wofford College in Spartanburg, South Carolina once told me that William was a
Local Preacher, and went on to say that he could find no validation that he was ever ordained. So, I guess it’s still kind
of up in air unless proof is found.
William's earlier days had him working on his father's plantation in old Darlington District near Bishopville as an
Overseer for any of the workers. Basically, he was a plantation manager. Rev. Alexander is listed as a Local Preacher in
1875 Cypress Church records along with Rev. McKenzie Mozingo, Joseph Hendrix, and Miles H. Joye. In that year,
William W. Williams and Lewis M. Hamer are listed as pastors. In 1876, William Alexander is again listed as a Local
Preacher along with McKenzie Mozingo and Miles H. Joye (although Rev. Joye’s name is spelled with an e on the end, the
records have him as Joy). Lewis M. Hamer was listed as the Pastor.
William Alexander had at least one slave named Rainey who was willed to him by his father as sort of a
loaner. He possibly owned more slaves previous to the War Between the States. It was a common thing during those
times.
One of William and Delilah Alexander’s two daughters, Elizabeth C. Lizzie Alexander married her step-uncle,
Robert Nelson Parnell, a brother of William’s wife, Anne Parnell and a son of Israel C. Parnell b. December 28, 1805 d.
August 24, 1874 and Frances Fannie Saverance Parnell. Israel and Fannie are reportedly buried at Newman Swamp
United Methodist Church, Darlington County, South Carolina, but I have not seen a record of their burial, nor a
tombstone in my several walks through that cemetery, nor in other surveys. That doesn’t mean they’re not there.
There is, however, a Parnell cemetery not too far away, but there’s only one marked grave in it, and it’s not for Israel or
Fannie.
OBITUARY for William from Southern Christian Advocate March 9, 1899, a month following William's death. It was
written by George M. Boyd. The obit's listing of Rev. Alexander's birthday is incorrect.
ALEXANDER - Reverend John William Reese Alexander was born in Darlington County, South Carolina on *
January 25, 1819, and died in the same county February 9, 1899. His name will appear familiar to many of our brethren
of the South Carolina Conference. “Uncle William” never forgot the pastors who served this country. For nearly half a
century he served the church as a local preacher. He was always ready to render aid to his pastors. Loyal, zealous,
faithful, was he to the seed of his life. In his last affliction he seemed to be “filled with all the fullness of God” and
rejoiced that “deliverance had come.” As the beautiful snow covered the cemetery the day he was buried, I could not
but think it emblematic of his pure, spotless spirit that had gone to God who gave it. The church on Lamar Circuit has
been made poorer by his death, but heaven richer. We will miss “Uncle William” much.
OBITUARY - Southern Christian Advocate, 1899 - A news-oriented periodical for South Carolina Methodist Conference,
and found in the South Carolina Methodist Archives at Spartanburg’s Wofford College in the Sandor Teszler Library. The
author of this obituary is unknown by this research, yet I'm almost positive that it was William's granddaughter, the
former Ella L. Alexander, wife of John James Hatchell, and daughter of John Wesley Alexander who wrote it. Ella died in
her early 30s due to ill health, and family lore has it that she was somewhat of a hypochondriac, complaining of ailments
each day. But, she seemed to be much better, more energetic, and a lot happier on Sundays, when she was looking
forward to going to church. Maybe her tombstone should have been inscribed See, I told you I was sick. In her
defense, she did die at age 33. Keep in mind as you read this obituary that another story tells how William’s body was
kept from burial for about a week due to the frozen ground at the cemetery which was hard to dig in. Another story
tells that his coffin came out of the funeral wagon when the horse pulling it reared up because of its difficulty getting
through the cold ice and snow. I checked with the weather service about the conditions that year, and found that
historically, it was one of the coldest winters on record.
Rev. J.W.R. Alexander departed this life February 9, 1899, aged 80 years and 15 days.
He was a consistent member of Newman Swamp Church, and a devoted Christian. Grandfather in Heaven. On
the 11th of Feb, while the beautiful snow was falling, they laid dear grandfather in his cold grave to sleep the blessed
sleep at Newman Swamp Cemetery till Jesus comes to reward His servants. And as these now came and covered his
grave, I thought of his white robe washed in the blood of Jesus as it fled to its heavenly home where Jesus welcomed
him in as he said: “Well done thou good and faithful servant, enter thou into the joys of the Lord.”
I think of him, how he praised God as he met many loved ones waiting and watching at the beautiful gate.
Farewell, dear grandfather. By the grace of God I hope to meet you there to part no more. Sometimes it seems
like it will not be long before I meet you there as I have suffered so long here. I know I would enjoy that heavenly
greeting. As I have not had the pleasure of hearing the blessed Gospel preached for a long time, it was so much
comfort to me for him to come, but I have to comfort myself the best I can now. I have no grandfather to come and
comfort me. How we miss him in our home!
Only last June I had lost all hopes of life here, and I thought if I could see him, how it would help me. I wanted
to be propped up, and while sitting there I heard someone come in. I looked up, and to my surprise it was the dear old
soul that I thought I would never see again, for he had been sick for some time. How he cheered me with loving words
of prayer I never shall forget. On last October, our last meeting, he told me where to meet him, and by the help of my
Savior, I hope to meet him in the sweet by and by.
United States Federal Census Reference:
1830 - Delilah’s parent’s home was in Darlington District, South Carolina during this enumeration. Her father,
Thomas Kea, had no names, just numbers on his household survey. Listed were 11 free whites, and 2 slaves.
1850 - September 16th. Sumter District, South Carolina. In this survey, the family had returned to South Carolina
after less than a decade in Henry County, Alabama. Delilah was to die in 1851. This is the only known census with son
Abner included.

Wm Alexander, age 30 (head)

Delilah Alexander, age 29 (wife)

Mary Alexander, age 12 (daughter)

Abner Alexander, age 10 (son)

Elis C Alexander, age 7 (daughter)

John W Alexander, age 4 (son)
1880 - June 23rd. Cypress, old Darlington County, South Carolina.

John W R Alexander, age 60 (head)

Martha Alexander, age 47 (wife)

Francis G Alexander, age 16 (daughter)

George Harris, age 11 (hired laborer)
Photo note: William, at the time of the photo appears to have had a stroke. Footnote: January 24th was William’s birthdate.
MARY ALEXANDER (McGEE) - Parents: John Alexander and Mary Polly
Woodham
Born: 1798 Sumter District, South Carolina (tombstone)
Died: 1868 Rocky Head, Dale County, Alabama at about age
70 (tombstone)
Marriage: Richard McGee
Born: About 1790 (possibly Bladen) North Carolina
Died: Richard died in Kinchafoonee District, Marion County,
Georgia during 1850 at about age 60, the same year he was listed
on a U.S. Federal Census survey. The survey was taken on
November 11th, so he would have died between then, and
December 31st. He and the family had been living in Marion
County, Georgia since, at least, the 1840 census.
Burial: Richard is likely buried in Marion County, Georgia
(county seat is Buena Vista). Mary is buried at Mount Olive Cemetery, Rocky Head community, Dale County, Alabama
near Ariton, Alabama, not too far from Ozark, Alabama and by the road, Alabama Highway 51 and continues on to
Enterprise in Coffee County, Alabama. Some person or group in more modern times added a companion marker putting
the same information on the newer marker, yet leaving the old one next to it. Inscription: IN MEMORY OF MARY WIFE
OF R. McGEE.
According to mixed sources, the couple’s children included:

Isaac J. McGee b. February 16, 1828 North Carolina d. May 1, 1900 at age 72

Harriet McGee b. November 12, 1830 North Carolina d. September 29, 1901 at age 70 m. James M.
Outlaw b. About 1824 Georgia on September 6, 1847 in Marion County. James was a farmer who is
found in the 1860 U.S. Federal Census for Dale County

Emma Missouri Missoura McGee b. 1834 North Carolina m. May 20, 1852 Marion County to James
Wilbern Griffin

Martha Ann McGee b. July 24, 1837 North Carolina d. May 9, 1911 Ariton, Dale County, Alabama at age
73 m. 1857
Mary’s story is somewhat confusing and unexplained. Having seen it more than once, it’s possible that her
middle initial was I. There were many McGees, and the name was spelled several ways, mostly including McGehee and
Magee. There doesn't seem to be a lot of concrete information on Mary or Richard. They apparently started out in old
Sumter District or Darlington District, South Carolina, districts adjacent to each other. Then they migrated to old
Kinchafoonee District, Marion County, Georgia, Kinchafoonee is the name that flows through Marion, Webster, and
possibly other counties. Richard died in Marion County was apparently buried there, then at some point widow Mary and
her family moved west to Dale County in Rocky Head, a small community near Ozark, Alabama, and also too awfully far
from her brother James Irvin Alexander, Sr. in Henry County. She is buried at Mount Olive Cemetery located on
Alabama Highway 51, just south of the main portion of Rocky Head, and near the Coffee County line. Her grave is
marked, and near the highway.
I suspect that others have embellished her information. Some of the findings of other researchers I know are
just copies of information that I have found to be incorrect over the years. The findings here, after visiting her place of
burial, and looking at census records, are to the best of my knowledge. Sometimes people find similar names, and think
they've discovered the entire story, but not always so.
There is a grave in the Mount Olive Cemetery, a few feet behind Mary's, of Isaac J. McGee, her son. Early on,
names were listed of those in a household, but not identified as a particular relation to the head of that household.
Isaac himself is found in the June 22, 1870 census in Beat 13, Rocky Head, Ozark Post Office, Dale County as I.J.
McGehee, age 42, with; M.A. McGehee, age 41, M.E. McGehee, age 3; G.R. McGehee, age 2; and M.E. McGehee, age 9
months.
United States Federal Census Reference:
1840 - Kinchafoonee District, Marion County, Georgia.
1850 - November 11th. Kinchafoonee District.

Richard McGee, age 60, (farmer – born North Carolina)

Mary McGee, age 60 (born South Carolina)

Isaac McGee, age 22 (born Georgia)

Missoura McGee, age 15 (born Georgia)

Martha McGee, age 13 (born Georgia)
The age of Mary is not exact on this survey, but the enumerators were not always exact or correct. It is said that
Richard died in that community. Mary and the children later moved to Dale County, Alabama, where she spent the rest
of her life.
MARY MARGARET ALEXANDER (HICKMAN) - Only known daughter of Mrs. Frances (nee?) Alexander, and only known sister of
John Alexander
Born: About 1780 old Dobbs County in a part that is now Lenoir County in coastal North Carolina
Died: After the 1860 U.S. Census for Philadelphia, Neshoba County, Mississippi. In that survey she was 80.
Marriage: About 1805, at about age 25 to Paris Hickman, a son of William Hickman
Born: About 1774 South Carolina
Died: Paris’ will was reportedly recorded in 1831 in Neshoba County, and he is said to have died May 28, 1838.
Don't be confused if looking into Paris Hickman. He had a son, and possibly a grandson, with names including the name
Paris. Many people get the original confused with later ones.
Burial: Unknown by this research, yet it has been suggested by Mississippi Alexanders that the unmarked graves
of Mary and Paris are at Sandtown Cemetery in Neshoba County.
Children of Mary and Paris (ones only taken from Paris' Last Will and Testament):

William Austin Hickman b. April 8, 1805 South Carolina d. August 11, 1883 at age 78 Skullyville County
in the Choctaw Nation, Indian Territory m. Sarah P. McAdory, he and she were buried at Page Cemetery,
Pocola, LeFlore County, Oklahoma

John A. Hickman b. 1810

Robert W.F. Hickman b. 1812

Samuel Fraser Hickman b. 1815 d. About 1874 m. Lucy Fillmoontubbee, a Choctaw

Tabitha Hickman b. 1817 South Carolina d. 1869 at about 63 years of age Neshoba County, Mississippi
m. David Donald of Darlington County, South Carolina

Joshua Hickman b. 1818

Jane Hickman b. About 1822 m. Mr. Ellis

Lettice Ann Hickman b. About 1825 m. Mr. Parker
Paris Hickman's parents:

William Hickman of Cheraws District, South Carolina

Mary Margaret McPherson of Cheraws District
This is one of those cases where there is more information on the spouse than the Alexander family member,
however there is information on the spouse that relates to Mary Alexander Hickman and their children. It was a long
time ago when Mary and Paris left South Carolina and moved into Mississippi, and good info on the couple is scarce, and
differs from one source to another.
After leaving South Carolina, and moving into Alabama for a relatively short stay, Paris and Polly moved on to
Mississippi. They settled in Neshoba County, the vicinity of the Choctaw Reservation, or as some have called it, the
Choctaw Nation, west of Pearl River. Many Choctaws still live in that area, now home to a popular Choctaw-run casino
and hotel complex on the reservation called Pearl River Resort, just outside of Philadelphia, the Neshoba County seat.
Mary’s nephew, Aris Alexander and his wife may have moved to Mississippi, due to Mary’s influence. They lived in the
same area, Philadelphia. Before that Aris and family lived for a relatively short time in the county above Neshoba,
Winston, in the county seat of Louisville.
Polly and Paris have not been easy folks to find or follow, and those who offer their information seem to all have
a somewhat different story.
LAST WILL AND TESTAMENT of Paris Hickman from Will Book A, Pages 2 and 3 of the records of Neshoba County, State
of Mississippi.
The State of Mississippi in the name of God, Amen.
I Paris Hickman of Neshoba County of the state and Country aforesaid and being presently in my right mind and
proper senses but weak in body and calling to mind the mortality of the human body and that is appointed to all men
once to die do make and ordain this my last will and testament as follows.
First of all I commend my soul to God who gave it and my body to be buried with a Christian burial at the
decisions of my executors as for the worldly goods that God has been pleased to bless me with it is my will to dispose of
them in the following manner.
In the first place I will that all my just debts be paid and the next place I bequeath to my beloved wife Mary
Hickman all my goods and chattels to have and to hold during her life and at her death to be divided amongst my
children as follows and in the next place I give to my son Samuel Hickman one Negro boy named Carolina and to my
sons Joshua and Robert Hickman one Negro boy named Titus, and to my daughter Lettice Ann a Negro girl named
Matilda and to my two sons Ladson L. and Elias E. F. one Negro woman with her increase from and after this date to be
divided equally and to my daughter Tabitha Donald I give the sum of fifty dollars and to my daughter Jane Ellis’ heirs I
leave the like sum of fifty dollars and to my son John Hickman and my granddaughter I leave one Negro girl Raney to be
equally divided and for the purpose of executing and attending to and to transact this business of my last will I appoint
my sons William A. and Samuel Hickman my executors of this my last will and testament revoking all other wills or deeds
by me made previous to this date. Signed sealed and acknowledged 12 December 1837. Paris Hickman in presence of
John Morris John G. West. Will recorded May 28, 1838 by Wm. R.B. (?), Clerk
United States Federal Census Reference:
1810 - Paris and family are found living in Salem, Sumter District, South Carolina.

Free White Persons – Males – Under 10 - 2

Free White Person – Male – 26-44 - 1

Free White Persons – Females – Under 10 - 2

Free White Persons – Females – 10-15 - 2

Free White Person – Female – 26-44 - 1

Number of Slaves – 1

Number of Household Members Under 16 – 6

Number of Household Members Over 25 – 2

Number of Household Members - 9
1820 – August 7th. Paris' family was residing in Sumter, Sumter District, South Carolina, probably the same basic
location as in 1810. Salem township didn't last very long, but Sumter District flourished.

Free White Persons – Male – Under 10 – 2

Free White Persons – Male - 10-15 – 1

Free White Persons – Male - 16-18 – 1

Free White Persons – Male - 16-25 – 1

Free White Persons – Male - 45+ - 1

Free White Persons – Female - 10-15 – 1

Free White Persons – Female - 16-25 – 3

Free White Persons – Female – 26-44 - 1

Slaves – Male – Under 14 – 2

Slaves – Male – 26-44 – 1

Slaves – Female – Under 14 – 1

Slaves – Female – 26-44 - 1

Number of Persons Engaged in Agriculture – 3
1830 - Paris and Polly were found in Pickens County, Alabama, six years previous to the relocation of Polly's
nephew James Irvin Alexander, Sr. from old Sumter District, South Carolina. This would be Paris’ last census survey,
dying May 21, 1838.
1850 - August 9th. Philadelphia, county seat of Neshoba County, Mississippi. Other the older Mary, none of the
relationships to the Head of Household were given. All were born in South Carolina with the exception of Jane Ellis, born
in Alabama. The two males were listed as farmers.

Mary Hickman, age 70 (head)

Mary Hickman, age 30

Elias Hickman, age 25

L F Hickman, age 25 (male)

Jane Ellis, age 19
1860 - August 22nd. Philadelphia, Township 12 Range 13,
Neshoba County, Mississippi. Both women were listed as house
keepers, but no mention of relationship.

Mary Hickman, age 80 (head)

Mary Hickman, age 58
MARY SUSANNAH SUSAN ALEXANDER (STUCKEY) - Parents: John
Alexander and Mary Polly Woodham
Born: December 28, 1809
Died: July 4, 1847 at age 37
Marriage: October 14, 1829 to Captain John Wesley Stuckey in
Bishopville, Sumter District, South Carolina
Born: April 23, 1810
Died: March 15, 1896 at age 85 in Bishopville, Lee County
Burial: Separately, yet near each other at Bethlehem Cemetery,
Bishopville, Lee County. Capt. Stuckey, is buried next to a later
wife. He lived for about 38 years after Susan's passing. Her
gravestone is interesting inscribed: Consort of J.W. Stuckey. A consort
being a husband or wife, spouse, companion, associate, partner,
and/or confidant.
Susan and Mr. Stuckey had two known children:

John Jefferson Stuckey b. May 15, 1833 d. January 1, 1880 at age 46

Eliza Ann Stuckey b. July 28, 1839 d. October 27, 1905 at age 66
Susan died relatively young, at age 37. John Wesley lived a much longer life, 85 years. Susan was J.W.
Stuckey’s first wife. All together he married three times, and continued to live in Bishopville. As a census enumerator,
his name as J.W. Stuckey, Assistant Marshall appeared on numerous area surveys during the 1800s.
Captain Stuckey's parents:

William James Stuckey

Mary Margaret Hudson
AN ALEXANDER-RELATED HANCOCK FAMILY
This line of Hancocks is connected to the Alexanders by the marriage of Frances Leitha Fannie Hancock and
Joseph K. Joe Alexander, Sr. of Florence County, South Carolina near Timmonsville. Featured in this report is what I've
been able to put together on Fannie's closest Hancock family. That hasn’t been easy.
Her father was William Eli Will Hancock of Effingham, Florence County, a son of Felix Hancock (2) of Darlington
County, and her mother was the former Olivia Mozelle Bryant of Darlington and Florence counties. Although Fannie had
other siblings, the closest was her sister, Laura Belle Hancock a.k.a. Mrs. William Barnie Ward. The two Ward's
interment was at Lake Swamp Baptist Church near Timmonsville, and Fannie and her husband are buried at Pine Grove
United Methodist Church, the same general area.
FELIX HANCOCK (1) - Parents: Zebedee Hancock and the former Abigail Taylor. This Felix was the paternal great grandfather of
Frances Leitha Fannie Hancock Alexander and Laura Belle Hancock Ward – To go back even more, see Russ Hancock’s section
immediately following this report in which he traces back to the 1500s.
Born: About 1795 North Carolina, possibly Onslow County
Marriage: About 1816 to Aritta Ritty Stiles
Born: About 1801
Burial: Unknown to this research
This Felix's family is said to have lived in what is, or was, called the Back Swamp area of Richlands, Onslow
County, North Carolina.
Felix and Ritty’s known children:

John Hancock b. About 1820

Felix Hancock (2) b. About 1825 Onslow County d. Before June 9, 1880 Florence County, South Carolina
m. Nancy Langston

Spicey Jane Hancock, b. About 1828 d. About 1880 at approximate age of 52 years m1. About 1849 to
Moses Marshburn b. 1828 Onslow County d. About 1865 Onslow County m2. James Knox Polk Jim
Batchelor b. October 15, 1845 d. June 3, 1922. Moses is buried on what used to be his farm, and is now
Montford Point (Federal) Cemetery, Onslow County, reportedly in an unmarked grave. Jim’s buried at
Charles Field Cemetery, Onslow County. Spicey's gravesite is not known by this research. She could be
buried in the same cemetery with Mr. Batchelor. Batchelor served as a Civil War Confederate, serving in
Company D, 13th Battalion, North Carolina Light Artillery. He survived the war, and remarried after
Spicey’s 1880 death.
United States Federal Census Reference:
1820 – August 7th. A difficult-to-read survey with only Felix's name and indicating marks. Spelled as Philex
Handecok, the survey was taken in Upper S. West, Onslow County, North Carolina.

Free White Persons – Males – Under 10 – 1

Free White Persons – Males – 16 through 25 – 1

Free White Persons – Females – 16 through 25 – 1

Number of Persons – Engaged in Agriculture – 1

Number of Persons – Engaged in Manufactures – 1

Free White Persons – Under 16 – 1

Total Free White Persons – 3

Total All Persons – White, Slaves, Colored, Other - 3
1830 – No exact date given on the survey. Felix’s name was spelled Felix Handcock, Onslow County.

Free White Persons – Males – Under 5 – 2

Free White Persons – Males – 5 through 9 – 1

Free White Persons – Males – 30 through 39 - 1

Free White Persons – Females – Under 5 – 1

Free White Persons – Females – 10 through 14 – 1

Free White Persons – Females – 20 through 29 – 1

Free White Persons – 20 through 49 – 2

Total Free White Persons – 7

Total All Persons –White, Slaves, Colored, Other - 7
1850 – September 26th. Lower Richlands, Onslow County.

Felix Hancock (1), age 55 (illegible)

Ritty Hancock, age 49

John Hancock, age 30 (mechanic)

Mandy Stiles, age 14 (Stiles was Ritty’s maiden name)
1860 - July 7th. Haw Branch Post Office, Lower Richland District, Onslow County. Felix (1) was age 66, and in
the household was Polly Hancock, 40, who was listed as a domestic. Also listed was William Ornett, age 18. Just
guessing, but at this point Ritty may have died with Felix remarrying to Polly (usually a nickname for Mary), and William
Ornett may have been her son. Just guessing. Value of his personal estate was $180.

Felix Hancock, age 66 (head – cooper)

Polly Hancock, age 40 (domestic)

William Ornett, age 18 (farm laborer)
FELIX HANCOCK (2) - Parents: Felix Hancock (1) and the former Aritta Ritty Stiles. Felix (2) was Frances Leitha Fannie Hancock
Alexander’s paternal grandfather.
Born: About 1825 Onslow County, North Carolina
Died: Before June 9, 1880 Florence County, South Carolina
Marriage: Nancy Langston
Born: About 1827, possibly Onslow County
Burial: I've been told that Felix (2) might be buried at Sardis Baptist Church, Sardis, Timmonsville, Florence
County, although I have not personally seen the grave, yet I’ve only made a partial search, so that doesn’t mean it’s not
there.
Known children:

William Eli Will Hancock

John Stephen Steve Hancock

Henry Walter Walt Hancock

James Haskell Jim Hancock

Virginia Hancock

Daniel W. Hancock
Felix Hancock's father was a Felix, as well. In this report, the latter Felix is described as Felix (2), and his father
as Felix (1) to differentiate between the two. Felix Hancock (1) was born about 1795 in Onslow County and was married
to Aritta Ritty Stiles. Some have erroneously listed her at Kitty Stiles.
Felix Hancock (2) served the Confederacy during the War Between the States as a Private in Company C, 3rd
Battalion, South Carolina Light Artillery, also known as Palmetto Battalion.
United States Federal Census Reference:
1850 - August 17th. First Division, Darlington, South Carolina. According to the survey, all listed were born in
South Carolina with the exception of Ann Lelven, born in Virginia. Nancy Hancock's maiden name was Langston. A
Langston family was living right next door to Felix and Nancy. Could the neighbors, Stephen and Elizabeth Langston
have been Nancy's parents? The dates and ages all fit. Stephen Langston was 55 years old, and Elizabeth (nee?) was
43. Their household was enumerated as family #243, and Felix's household was family #244. The Langston's
household for the same survey (transcribed by an unknown) is listed here below Felix's household listing.

Felix Hancock, age 25 (head)

Nancy Hancock, age 23 (wife)

Jno L Hancock, age 4 (son)

Jas Hancock, age 2 (son)

Ann Lelven, age 67 (unknown)

Stephen Langston, age 55

Elizth Langston, age 43

Jas Langston, age 28

Stephen Langston, age 18

Martha Langston, age 24

Laurena Langston, age 22

Jno Langston, age 16

Ezra Langston, age 14

Jonathan Langston, age 13

Randall Langston, age 11

Mary Langston, age 9

Eliza A Langston, age 7

Margaret Langston, age 5

Thos Langston, age 3
1860 - July 6th. Darlington, Darlington District, South Carolina. Felix and his family are found living in the
household of A.S. and Margaret (nee?) Dawes' home. The Dawes were younger than Felix and his wife. Mr. Dawes,
born in North Carolina was a turpentine distiller. Felix was described as a Cooper. Mrs. Dawes was born in South
Carolina. This survey differs from one taken separately at Felix's home and crossed out, likely as a duplication, even
though the information differs slightly. This is the one from the Dawes home, and the one to follow, taken on a later
date is that of just Felix's family. As a guess, Felix's family may have moved into their own dwelling, after the Dawes
were surveyed. The survey was then taken as Felix's new home, and the enumerator was told afterwards that they had
already been surveyed at another residence, so to keep from duplicating the count, the prime reason for an
enumeration, it was crossed out.

A S Dawes, age 23 (head)

Margt Dawes, age 23 (wife)

Ellen Dawes, age 2 (female)

R F Carney, age 2 (female)

Felix Hancock, age 35 (male)

Nancy Hancock, age 36 (female)

Stephen Hancock, age 12 (male)

Jas Hancock, age 10 (male)

Wm Hancock, age 9 (male)

Danl Hancock, age 4 (male)

Virginia Hancock, age 2 (female)
1860 - August 25th. Darlington, Darlington District, South Carolina. This survey includes only Felix's family, not
the Dawes, and was crossed out, apparently to avoid duplication of the census count. Ages are slightly different in this
enumeration.

Felix Hancock, age 36

Nancy Hancock, age 33

J S Hancock, age 14

James Hancock, age 12

Wm Hancock, age 8

Daniel Hancock, age 6

Virginia Hancock, age 3
FRANCES LEITHA FANNIE HANCOCK (ALEXANDER) - Parents: William Eli Will Hancock and Olivia Mozelle Bryant. (See
husband Joseph Kirkland Joe Alexander, Sr.'s biography in the Darlington and Florence Area Alexanders section.)
LAURA BELLE HANCOCK (WARD) - Parents: William Eli Will Hancock and the former Olivia Mozelle Bryant
Born: October 16, 1883 Florence County, South Carolina, according to her Petition for Registration of Date of
Birth. People who were born in those days with no birth certificate sometimes would have to apply in their county of
birth to get one from the Clerk of Court. She petitioned on December 3, 1935 for whatever reason.
Died: June 26, 1962 at age 78
Marriage: William Barney Ward before June 5, 1900
Born: January 7, 1883 Darlington County, South Carolina
Died: November 21, 1934 Timmonsville, Florence County at age
51 of a cerebral hemorrhage.
Burial: Lake Swamp Baptist Church, Lake Swamp, Darlington
County near Timmonsville. According to his death certificate, Barney was
buried there the same day he died. Inscription: EARTH HAS NO SORROW
THAT HEAVEN CANNOT HEAL
Laura and Barney's children:

James Felix Jim Ward b. June 2, 1901 Darlington County
d. April 1976 Florence, Florence County. Reportedly, Jim
never married

William Cleveland Willie Ward b. September 30, 1904 d.
March 12, 1990. Reportedly, Willie never married.

(infant) Ward b. October 12, 1906 d. October 14, 1906

Roland Ward (infant) b. January 12, 1908 d. November 6,
1908. Buried: Lake Swamp Baptist Church, Timmonsville,
Darlington County.

Eugene Edward Gene Ward b. July 12, 1908 d. May 5,
1978 Lamar, Darlington County

Otto Oglesby Ward b. September 3, 1910 Darlington
County d. August 2, 1971 Florence County at age 60 m.
October 16, 1930 Florence County to Harriet Bernice
Hattie Doriety b. March 25, 1913 Florence County d. April
14, 1982 Florence County at age 69, with burial for both
at Sparrow Swamp Baptist Church, Timmonsville,
Florence County. Inscription: BEYOND THE SUNSET.
Hattie was a daughter of Charlie H. Doriety and Bessie
Oliver.

Earl Houck Ward b. April 28, 1913 Florence County, South Carolina d. December 17, 1989 Florence
County, South Carolina at age 76 m1. May 7, 1930 to Iris Travis Doriety b. April 8, 1914 Florence County
d. March 10, 1986 Florence County at age 71, burial at Bay Branch Free Will Baptist Church, just outside
of Timmonsville with Earl m2. Lillie Beatrice Bea Lloyd Alexander, widow of Earl’s first cousin Wilton
Kenneth Alexander. Earl died previous to Bea, and she was buried beside Kenneth at Elim Baptist
Church near Florence. Two of Earl and Iris' children were buried at Bay Branch Free Will Baptist, as
well. For specifics, see Wilton Kenneth Alexander in the Darlington and Florence Area Alexanders
section. A son of Earl and Iris was James Arnold Ward b. February 5, 1932 d. January 28, 2011 at age
79. Buried at Bay Branch Church, Florence County.

Alvin T. Ward b. December 3, 1943 d. April 28, 1984 at age 41. Buried at Bay Branch Church.

Douglas McKay Doug/Dug Ward b. August 27, 1915 Florence County d. August 7, 1981 Lee County,
South Carolina at age 66 m. February 27, 1953 to Macie Juanita Brown b. October 30 1928 Florence
County, South Carolina d. April 14, 2009 Carolina Pines Regional Medical Center, Hartsville, Darlington
County at age 80

Annie Laura Ward b. June 30, 1919 Florence County d. March 7, 2002 Commander Nursing Home,
Florence, Florence County at age 82 m. February 2, 1950 to Hugh Leonard Johnson, Sr. b. February 2,
1919 Sumter, Sumter County, South Carolina d. January 2, 1989 Lamar, Darlington County, burial for
both at Shiloh United Methodist Church, Shiloh, Sumter County

Teenie Mae Ward b. July 7, 1923 Florence County, South Carolina d. October 2, 2008 Florence, Florence
County at age 85 m. March 17, 1945 Florence County to Mr. Vivian Dorriety b. February 22, 1924 d.
October 7, 2009 Florence County at age 85.
All of the Ward sons and daughters were born in South Carolina.
Laura's petition for a first-time birth certificate through the Florence County, South Carolina Clerk of Court's office
listed her father as William Hancock, dying at age 65, and her mother as Olivia Bryant, dying at age 35. The Clerk of
Court then was the well-known Florence politician, the late Archie G. Odom.
Barney Ward was a farmer who registered for the World War I draft at age 36 in September 1918 in Darlington
County. He was described as having blue eyes and dark hair. At the time, he was living with Laura at Route 4,
Timmonsville.
Barney's parents:

Thomas Rollins Tom Ward b. November 5, 1849 d. December 25, 1929 Darlington County at age 80

Anne Haxeltine Annie Flowers b. May 23, 1855 Darlington County d. July 7, 1921 Florence County at age
66 m. January 14, 1875 Darlington County. Both are buried at Lake Swamp Baptist Church, Darlington
County.
United States Federal Census Reference:
1900 - June 5th. Philadelphia, Darlington County. Apparently not long married, judging by their ages, Laura B.
Hancock and husband Barnie Ward were living with Laura's uncle, William Madison Mad Bryant's family. Barney was
listed as a farm laborer.
1910 – April 23rd. High Hill, Darlington County near Timmonsville.
 W Barney Ward, age 28 (head)
 Belle Ward, age 27 (wife)
 James Ward, age 8 (son)
 William Ward, age 5 (son)
 Eugene Ward, age 1 year 10 months (son)
 William Hancock, age 57 (father in law)
1920 - February 13th. Timmonsville, Florence County. The survey stated that
they owned their home.
 William B Ward, age 38 (head)
 Laura B Ward, age 37 (wife)
 James F Ward, age 18 (son)
 Willie C Ward, age 15 (son)

Eugean Ward, age 11 (son)

Otto Ward, age 9 (son)

Earl Ward, age 6; (son)

Doglar Ward, age 5 (son)

Annie L Ward, age 7 months (daughter)
1930 - April 15th. Timmonsville. In this survey, Jessie Clifton Alexander, Sr., his wife, the former Mavie Edna
Jolly and young daughter Alma Jean lived next door to the Wards, if not on the same property.

William B Ward, age 48 (head)

Laura Ward, age 47 (wife)

James Ward, age 29 (son)

Willie Ward, age 25 (son)

Eugene Ward, age 22 (son)

Otto Ward, age 20 (son)

Earl Ward, age 18 (son)

Douglas Ward, age 14 (son)

Annie Laura Ward, age 10 (daughter)

Tena Mae Ward, age 7 (daughter)
1940 - June 20th. Timmonsville. Barney had died approximately 6 years before this survey, and Laura's family
was still farming and renting. The enumeration also stated that the family was living in the same residence on April 1,
1935, and that Laura had a 4th grade education.

Mrs. William B. Ward, age 57

James Ward, age 39 (son)
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William Ward, age 35 (son)
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Eugene Ward, age 31 (son)
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Douglas Ward, age 23 (son)
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Annie Laurie Ward, age 20 (daughter)
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Teenie Mae Ward, age 16 (daughter)
Photo: Fannie Hancock Alexander and sister Laura, and Laura
WILLIAM ELI WILL HANCOCK - Parents: Felix Hancock (2) and the former Nancy
Langston
Born: There’s a discrepancy between Will’s tombstone, stating that his birth
date was April 8, 1852, and his death certificate, stating he was born April 18, 1852,
10 days later.
Died: There is also a discrepancy with his death date. His grave marker states
that he died March 8, 1917, yet, according to his death certificate, he died six days
earlier on March 2, 1917. The certificate indicates he died of Heart Disease in
Effingham, Florence County, South Carolina, apparently at his home. In addition, he
was listed as William B. Hancock on the certificate, not William E. Information given
by daughter Laura when she applied for a first time birth certificate at Florence
County Clerk of Courts stated that Will died at age 65. No application date available.
Marriage: June 17, 1869 to Olivia Mozelle Bryant, a daughter of William Bryant
and the former Sarah Jordan
Born: About 1850
Died: About 1890 at approximately age 40. Information given by daughter
Laura when she applied for a first time birth certificate at the Florence County Clerk
of Courts stated that Olivia died at age 35. No application date available.
Burial: Sardis Baptist Church, Timmonsville, Florence County March 3, 1917. A grave is not marked for wife Olivia
Mozelle Bryant. Will’s inscription: At Rest.
Will and Olivia's known children:
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Preston Brooks Press Hancock
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Felix Hancock (3)
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Laura Belle Hancock
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Frances Leitha Fannie Hancock
United States Federal Census Reference:
1880 - June 7th. Shiloh, Sumter County, South Carolina. Will's family was living close to Daniel W. Hancock's
household (Will’s brother). His occupation was listed as a miller and a smith.
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Will Hancock, age 25 (head)
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Olivia Hancock, age 22 (wife)
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Preston, age 5 (son)
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Phelix Hancock, age 2 (son)
Will is found in the 1900 survey living at daughter Laura Hancock Ward’s home in the Philadelphia section of
Darlington County, South Carolina.
Thanks for the portions of this report that were furnished by Harold Ward and Carol Sims, both Ward
descendants.
Photo: Will Hancock’s grave marker at Sardis Baptist Church, rural Timmonsville.
RUSS HANCOCK’S HANCOCKS – BACK TO THE FIFTEEN HUNDREDS
These are findings of a Hancock cousin, Russ Hancock, who went back to the 1500s in our Hancock lineage. This
is his report on the ones much farther back than my Hancock report includes. Thanks to Russ for sharing.
GEORGE WILLIAM HANCOCK (2) - Parents: George William Hancock (1) and Elizabeth Sarah Cockroft
Born: About 1672 Norfolk County, Virginia (other non-verifiable sources say England)
Died: March 16, 1730 Craven County, North Carolina
Marriage: About 1693 in Craven County to Elinor D. Durant.
Several separate sources indicate he was married to Elizabeth Spencer. He may have been married to both, at
different time periods.
Born: 1689
Died: 1730
HECTOR HANCOCK - Parents: William Hancock (3) and Elinor D. Durant
Born: August 2, 1712
Died: October 27, 1761 Carteret County, North Carolina
Marriage: Ann Carver
Born: 1711
Died: 1769
NATHANIEL HANCOCK - Parents: Hector Hancock and Ann Carver
Born: 1733 Carteret County, North Carolina
Died: April 10, 1800 Onslow County, North Carolina
Marriage: Sarah Ward
Born: 1732
Died: 1800
SIMON HANCOCK - Parents: William Hancock (1) and Susan Poynter
Born: 1610 Devonshire, England
Died: June 22, 1654 Berkeley Hundred, Jamestown, Virginia
Marriage: Sarah Gilbert Gay
Born: 1610
THOMAS HANCOCK - Parents unknown
Born: 1550 England
Died: 1583 England
Marriage: Agness Nickolls
Born: 1550
Died: 1582
WILLIAM HANCOCK (1) - Parents: Thomas Hancock and Agness Nickolls
Born: September 4, 1580 Devonshire, England
Died: March 22, 1622
Marriage: Susan Poynter
Born: 1580
Died: 1667
WILLIAM HANCOCK (2) - Parents: Simon Hancock and Sarah Gilbert Gay
Born: 1640 Norfolk, Virginia
Died: May 17, 1678 Lower Norfolk
Marriage: Elizabeth Cockroft 1643
Died: 1685
ZEBEDEE HANCOCK - Parents: Nathaniel Hancock and Sarah Ward
Born: January 1750 Snead S. Ferry, Stump Sound, Onslow County, North Carolina
Died: May 15, 1820 Onslow County
Marriage: February 21, 1793 Onslow County to Abigail Taylor
Born: 1761 Onslow County
Died: 1820 Onslow County
Abigail was a daughter of William Wilkins Taylor and Sarah Whitehurst Whitehouse (she has also has been seen
as Elizabeth Whitehouse)
AN ALEXANDER-RELATED STEWART FAMILY
First cousins, these are also your great-great grandparents, the parents of your great grandmother Sarah A.M.
Sallie Stewart Alexander, wife of John Wesley Alexander. The writing contains a little information on Abel S. Stewart, his
wife, the former Lydia Kirkley, and a little on Sallie’s many siblings. The Stewarts were a farming family who lived in old
Darlington District, later becoming Darlington County. Their home was in an area between Lydia and Philadelphia
communities, and there are mentions of both in their story. Philadelphia’s Methodist church used Wesley Chapel
Methodist, located in the Lydia community, for burials, since it had no cemetery of its own until the mid-1900s. A few of
the Stewarts are buried at Wesley Chapel’s cemetery.
Pictured on the right is what is now known as Wesley Chapel United Methodist Church, historically believed to be
the oldest Methodist Church in Darlington County, once known as Gully Church.
ABEL S. STEWART - Parents unknown by this research.
Born: March 7, 1799 Kershaw District, South Carolina
Died: At home October 19, 1888 Darlington County, South Carolina at age 89
Marriage: December 24, 1833 Darlington District to Lydia Kirkley. Abel was 34 at the time, and Lydia was about
22.
Born: About 1811 Kershaw District
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Died: November 2, 1878 Darlington County at about age 67 (have seen the
24th as her death date)
Burial: Lydia, and likely Abel are buried at Wesley Chapel UMC, Lydia
community, Darlington County. Abel didn't remarry after Lydia's death, and
died about a decade later. I suggest that since there is ample room for a grave
on either side of Lydia’s grave that he is buried there.
Known children:
 Samuel J. Stewart
 William Franklin Stewart b. April 23, 1835 d. August 6, 1906 at age 71
m1. Sena A. Melissa Galloway b. September 23, 1839 South Carolina d.
Between the 1880 and 1900 census surveys m2. Louise J. (nee?)
 Sarah A.M. Sallie Stewart b. February 16, 1840 South Carolina d. December
15, 1917 at age 77 m. February 1, 1866 Darlington District to John Wesley
Alexander b. August 26, 1846 d. February 13, 1934 Timmonsville, Florence
County at age 87, Burial: Both at Pine Grove UMC, Darlington County on South Carolina Highway 340
Martha C. Mattie Stewart b. April 18, 1841 d. August 24, 1929 at age 88 Darlington County, South Carolina
m. James Presley Mozingo, Sr. b. About 1847 d. About 1925 at
around age 78, Burial: Hebron UMC, Lee County, South Carolina.
Mr. Mozingo was buried next to his first wife.
Sylvia Stewart b. About 1842
Mary Elizabeth Lizzie Stewart b. About 1846 m. Washington Wash
Reddick b. About 1846
Charles Willoby Stewart b. March 8, 1848 Darlington District
d. August 3, 1929 m. Margaret Ellen Beasley b. September 7, 1853
South Carolina d. July 16, 1911 at age 57, burial at Wesley Chapel
UMC, Lydia, Darlington County
Israel Pinckney Pink/Pinck Stewart b. April 5, 1849 d. March 17,
1897 at age 47 m. Jane (nee?) b. April 11, 1846 d. September 17,
1910 at age 64
Lucius Noel Lushe Stewart b. April 5, 1849 m1. Mary Susan Oates b.
About 1854 d. After June 9, 1880 m2. Amanda Argent Alexander b.
May 11, 1871 South Carolina d. September 1, 1895 at age 24
Mary Jane Stewart b. June 19, 18?? d. September 13, 1913 at age
64 m. George C. Kelley b. November 30, 1835 d. November 21, 1897 at age 67, Burial: Both at Wesley Chapel
UMC
Pernice Neesie Stewart b. about 1859 Darlington District, South Carolina m. About 1877 Darlington County
to Ira Pinckney Pink/Pinck Register when he was 27 b. About 1850 Darlington District. Pinckney was a son of
Calvin Register and the former Elizabeth Oates.
OBITUARY – Written by J.W. Murray Southern Christian Advocate 1888

STEWART - Abel Stewart was born in Darlington County March 7, 1799, and died October 19, 1888. He perhaps
was among the oldest men in this section. Brother Stewart belonged to the Methodists of the early day. He was a
consistent member of the Church for fifty-two years, and during those years enjoyed the life and power of a well-defined
religious experience. He served as class leader of Philadelphia Church for forty-two years, and his devotion to the cause
of Christ was such that no one, saint or sinner, ever doubted his piety. It is wonderful to record that he never was
seriously sick a day in his long life, and never took a dose of medicine from a physician until two days before his death,
when one dose was given to quiet his nerves. He was entirely free from pain in his last illness, although conscious to
the end. Our dear old brother was the father of fourteen children, ten of which survive him and are members of the
Church. The veteran of this obituary notice lived to see seventy-five grandchildren and thirteen great
grandchildren. May his children who are still alive remember his long and faithful life, his sweet and peaceful death, and
strive by God's grace to meeting him where parting is unknown.
OBITUARY - 1878 unknown publication, yet likely the Southern Christian Advocate
LYDIA KIRKLEY STEWART - Born in * Kershaw County, 1811 and was married to Abel Stewart 24th December,
1833, and soon after moved to Darlington County, where she lived until her death 24th November, 1878. She was the
mother of eleven children, and lived to see them all grown. She joined the Methodist Church, in Darlington County, in
1842, and was a consistent and faithful member. She was rather feeble for the two last years of her life, but testified
that Divine grace was sufficient to enable her to submit patiently to the will of God. A short time before her departure
she told those around her bedside that the Master had come and called for her. Her Christian example will be
remembered by those among whom she lived. She died in peace.
United States Federal Census Reference:
1860 - July 10th. Darlington Post Office, Darlington District, South Carolina. For whatever reason, Sallie is not
listed in this enumeration, but didn't marry John W. Alexander until 1866. She would have been 20 years old at the
time. Maybe off to higher education?
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Abel Stewart, age 61 (head)
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Lydia Stewart, age 45 (wife)
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Sylvia Stewart, age 18 (daughter)
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Martha Stewart, age 17 (daughter)
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Mary Stewart, age 14 (daughter)
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N P Stewart, age 7 (daughter)
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Saml Stewart, age 15 (son)
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C Stewart, age 12 (son)
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J P Stewart, age 7 (son-twin)
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N L Stewart, age 7 (son-twin)
1880 - June 9th. Lydia, Darlington County, South Carolina. Lydia Stewart had died about a year and a half
previous to this enumeration. Abel was still listed as a farmer. All inhabitants born in South Carolina.

Abel Stewart, age 81 (head)
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Martha Stewart, age 39 (daughter)
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Charles W Stewart, age 32 (son)
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Ellen Stewart, age 26 (daughter-in-law)
Footnote: * Kershaw was not a county at the time the obituary was written, it was Kershaw District. That part of South
Carolina did not have counties until after the Civil War, but did have a few small counties within districts around the late 1700s and
early 1800s. Most of those districts turned into counties around 1868.
Photos: Lydia’s marker at Wesley Chapel United Methodist Church, and a faux marker for Abel Stewart from
www.tombstonebuilder.com, an interesting and unique addition to my Find-A-Grave Memorial page for Mr. Stewart by Bill Rushing. I
decided to add it here, a little for novelty, and maybe wishing that maybe a real one could be added next to Lydia at Wesley Chapel’s
cemetery. I’m surprised that with as many children as he and Lydia had, the children couldn’t have pooled together the resources to
buy him one over the years.
A COMPOSITE OF COMPANY A, 14TH INFANTRY REGIMENT, SC VOLUNTEERS, CSA
This is a Civil War composite of a Confederate infantry battle unit out of what is now a sleepy crossroads of the unincorporated
community of Cartersville, South Carolina just a short distance west of Timmonsville on U.S. Highway 76.
Those communities are in Florence County now, but were active towns in the older version of Darlington County, and before that
Darlington District. The area switched from Darlington District to Darlington County not long after the Civil War ended, and in 1902 the
boundaries were finalized with both becoming located in Florence County.
Although hard to tell today, Cartersville was once a thriving town, which unfortunately burned decades ago. It’s now one of those if
you sneeze, you'll miss it sort of places. Not even the railroad that took the recruits off to their boot camp and to the war, is still
there. The once thriving main part of Cartersville was situated on both sides of where the railroad tracks used to be. All that burned,
was removed, and many years later the tracks were dismantled. The small town served not only as a recruiting station for
Confederates, but as a boot camp for a few after the war commenced.
An actual banner of the Lynches Creek Guards
Company A seems to have been born out of a Cartersville militia group known as the Lynches Creek Guards, primarily run by the
sons of once-prominent Charles Powell Carter II (hence the name Cartersville). Mr. Carter’s sons included Giles Carter, Col. William
Ingram Bill Carter, John Carter, Lt. Sidney Carter, James Morgan Carter, and Dick Carter. The sons later became the nucleus of the
Confederate unit, with then Captain William I. Bill Carter commanding (Carter later became a Colonel).
The unit was made up of approximately one hundred and twenty men, two of whom were known to be Alexanders. They were first
cousins who felt the call of the War Between the States. They were Benjamin M. Alexander, son of Rev. Abner M. Alexander, and John
Wesley Alexander, son of Rev. John William Reese Alexander. This composite is mostly based on muster rolls, cards that were
completed from time to time as a way of keeping up with the soldiers. Some of the information has been offered from families.
The Company saw action in many of the most famous battles of the Civil War, and served under some of the most famous
Confederate high-ranking officers. It’s a listing of men who fought at the Battle of Gettysburg, Battle of Bull Run (Virginia), Battle of the
Wilderness, and many more.
John Wesley Alexander survived the war, but Benjamin was sent back home after being wounded, and died, leaving a wife, the
former Louisa Reynolds and two young boys, Charles Mitchell and James Benjamin. She later married a Mr. McCaskill.
Although it doesn't seem to have a lot of Carter family members in it, Cartersville Cemetery is near the Carterville Crossroads on U.S.
Highway 76 just outside of Timmonsville. It’s a fenced graveyard in a field where at least three of the Carter family members were
buried, including Company A’s former Captain, Col. William Ingram Bill Carter, his wife Caroline Minkie, and brother Giles Carter.
Master Mason Roscoe B. Fountain of Timmonsville told me that Giles was the first Worshipful Master of Timmonsville’s Benton
Masonic Lodge #26, Free and Accepted Masons. He also said that Giles' signature is on the original Masonic Lodge Charter, configured
around 1855, previous to the Civil War. Benton Lodge is one of the oldest in the state, the 26th one established.
This is a compilation, and information in it has come from several sources, some not so informative. For an example of duplicate
name possibilities, a J.A. Hamby may be listed, and may be the same person as, say a James Henry Hamby, or a Joseph Allen
Hamby. Many times it’s all about an individual’s perception of the handwriting, and ultimately its transcription. The notation of No
information beside any name indicates that this research has no information on that individual other than what is already stated.
If abbreviations are present, this guide/legend should help most of the time:
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Cartersville: A small once-bustling town in old Darlington District, South Carolina, and recruiting center for Company
A. Its downtown burned to the ground decades ago, and the railroad tracks are no longer there. Now Cartersville is
in Florence County, just down the road from Timmonsville.
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Darlington District: Predecessor to Darlington County
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Boot Camp: Where recruits were trained
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Camp Johnson: The primary boot camp of Company A recruits. Located in what is now technically Dentsville,
adjacent to Columbia, South Carolina in Richland County. It was referred to by the soldiers as Lightwood Knot
Springs. There is a historic marker for the site on Parklane Road, near Two-Notch Road, a busy retail and business.
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Camp Gregg: A boot camp near Aiken, South Carolina
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Camp Winder: Located in or near Richmond, Virginia
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Pocotaligo: Camp Pocotaligo, located in the coastal area of South Carolina, not far from Beaufort. It was one of unit’s
first camps in Company A’s campaign before heading north. Usually in that area, the Confederates were on land, and
the northern troops were on Union warships. Relatively few lives were lost there by the troops of Company A.
Muster roll: An occasional and varied method of recording current information on soldiers’ illnesses, hospitalizations,
death, location, etc. by various officials as they traveled. Many times muster rolls were recorded few and far
between.
Disease: An across-the-board indication of sickness, and many times death on a muster roll card. Men would be
injured by gunfire, yet die of disease later on.
A composite of the known men in Company A, alphabetized by surname:
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ALEXANDER, Pvt. Benjamin M. - A son of Rev. Abner M. Alexander and Massey Belk b. Sumter District, South Carolina April
13, 1838 d. May 17, 1864 Darlington District at age 26. He was a first cousin of Company A’s Pvt. John Wesley Alexander,
also in the same unit. - Enlisted on March 12, 1862 Cartersville – Boot Camp: Cartersville - Commanding Officer: Captain
William Ingram Bill Carter – Wounded in Virginia, was sent home, where he died of disease. - Buried at New Hope Cemetery,
Carter's Crossing, near Lamar, Darlington County (not to be confused with Carter’s Crossroads).
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ALEXANDER, Pvt. John Wesley - A son of Rev. John William Reese Alexander and Delilah Alexandra Liley Kea who lived in
Darlington District, South Carolina, and moved after 1840 to Henry County, Alabama where Pvt. Alexander was born August
26, 1846. The family moved back to Darlington District before 1850. – Enlisted on August 10, 1861 Cartersville, telling
officials that he was older, but he had not quite reached his 15th birthday. He was 14 when he went to boot camp. One
muster role had him listed as 23 years old, yet he was actually about 18 when the war ended - Boot Camp: Camp Johnson Commanding Officer: Captain William Ingram Bill Carter – Wounded: Malvern Hill, Henrico County, Virginia - On August 31,
1864 he was found to be In the hands of the enemy – Imprisoned at Elmira Prison, Elmira, New York, the Death Camp of the
North. In 1932 John stated in his Reminiscence that he was the only living member of Company A out of about 120 men,
then died in 1934. He also said that he had never been seriously wounded during the war, but had almost died at least three
times, once taking a bullet to the chest which didn’t prove fatal because it hit him in his pocket Testament.
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AMERSON, Pvt. J.A. - Enlisted October 24, 1861 Cartersville – Boot Camp: Cartersville
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AMERSON, Pvt. James - Enlisted August 10, 1861 Cartersville - Boot Camp: Camp Johnson - Commanding Officer: Captain
William Ingram Bill Carter - Died at Gaines Mill, Hanover County, Virginia - The battle was known both as First Battle of Cold
Harbor and Battle of the Chickahominy River, fought June 27, 1862
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AMERSON, Pvt. John D. - Enlisted August 10, 1861 Cartersville - Boot Camp: Camp Gregg near Aiken, South Carolina Commanding Officer: E.H. Seabrook - Was found to be hospitalized at Richmond, Virginia on August 31, 1864 – Died of
disease at Camp Winder, Richmond, Virginia – Winder also became a hospital
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AMERSON, Pvt. W. Cooper - Enlisted August 10, 1861 Cartersville – Boot Camp: Camp Johnson - Commanding Officer:
Captain William Ingram Bill Carter
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ANDERSON, Pvt. James - Enlisted August 10, 1861 Cartersville - Boot Camp: Camp Johnson - Commanding Officer: Captain
William Ingram Bill Carter
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ANDREWS, Cpl. Charles J. - No information
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ANDREWS, 1st Lt. John E. - Enlisted August 10, 1861 at Cartersville - Boot Camp: Camp Johnson - Commanding Officer:
Captain William Ingram Bill Carter - Found hospitalized in Columbia, South Carolina on Aug 31, 1864
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ANDREWS, 2nd Lt. J. Henry - No information
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ANDREWS, Pvt. R.E. - Enlisted March 12, 1862 Cartersville – Boot Camp: Cartersville – Commanding Officer: Captain William
Ingram Bill Carter
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ANDREWS, Reddin - Died in Columbia, South Carolina of disease
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ANDREWS, Sgt. William J. - Died of disease at home
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ATKINSON, Pvt. James W. - Enlisted August 10, 1861 Cartersville - Boot Camp: Camp Johnson - Commanding Officer: Captain
William Ingram Bill Carter
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BAKER, Pvt. Christopher C. - Enlisted October 31, 1861 – Boot Camp: Camp Gregg near Aiken, South Carolina - Commanding
Officer: Captain E.H. Seabrook - Died of disease near Culpepper, Virginia
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BAKER, Pvt. Evander F. - Enlisted March 12, 1862 Cartersville - Boot Camp: Cartersville - Commanding Officer: Captain
William Ingram Bill Carter - Died at the Battle of Gettysburg, Adams County, Pennsylvania
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BAKER, Pvt. Ellis J. - Enlisted August 10, 1861 Cartersville - Boot Camp: Camp Johnson - Commanding Officer: Captain
William Ingram Bill Carter - Wounded at the Battle of Gettysburg, Adams County, Pennsylvania
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BASS, Pvt. Jesse - Enlisted March 12, 1862 Cartersville - Boot Camp: Cartersville - Commanding Officer: Captain William
Ingram Bill Carter - Wounded at the Battle of Gettysburg, Adams County, Pennsylvania
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BEASLEY, Pvt. Joseph F. - Enlisted August 10, 1861 Cartersville - Boot Camp: Camp Johnson - Commanding Officer: Captain
William Ingram Bill Carter - Died at Chancellorsville, Virginia
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BELL, Pvt. Ephraim - Enlisted August 10, 1861 Cartersville - Boot Camp: Camp Johnson - Commanding Officer: Captain
William Ingram Bill Carter - Died of disease near Culpepper, Virginia
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BELL, Cpl. John S. - Enlisted August 10, 1861 Cartersville - Boot Camp: Camp Johnson - Commanding Officer: Captain William
Ingram Bill Carter
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BELL, Pvt. R.W. - Enlisted March 12, 1862 Cartersville – Boot Camp: Cartersville - Commanding Officer: Captain William
Ingram Bill Carter
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BELL, Pvt. W. Nipper - Enlisted August 10, 1861 Cartersville - Boot Camp: Camp Johnson - Commanding Officer: Captain
William Ingram Bill Carter
BLUME, John H. - No information
BOARD, Pvt. William H. - Enlisted August 10, 1861 Cartersville - Boot Camp: Camp Johnson - Commanding Officer: Captain
William Ingram Bill Carter - Died of disease at Camp Gregg
BOARD, Stephen S. - No information
CARTER, Pvt. Giles - Enlisted March 17, 1862 Cartersville - Boot Camp: Cartersville - Commanding Officer was J.D. Young Giles’ brother was Co. A's original Commanding Officer, Capt. William Ingram Bill Carter - All of the Carters in the unit were
sons of Charles Powell Carter of Cartersville, a former town that is believed to have been named after him, in old Darlington
District, now Florence County - Wounded at the Battle of Gettysburg, Adams County, Pennsylvania - Found hospitalized at
Lynchburg, Virginia on August 31, 1864 - Giles is buried next to his brother Bill at Cartersville Cemetery, Florence County,
South Carolina. He was a Mason, and the first Worshipful Master at Benton Masonic Lodge in Timmonsville, still in operation.
CARTER, Sgt. John Morgan - A brother of his Commanding Officer, Captain William Ingram Bill Carter - Died at
Chancellorsville, Virginia on May 3, 1863
CARTER, Cpl. Richard Daniel - No information
CARTER, Lt. Sidney Sid - Born about 1832, Sid unknowingly chronicled a sample of what it was like to serve in Company A.
He sent several letters back home to wife Ellen Bet Timmons Carter - The letters survived, passed down in the family, and
used as a base of information for the book Dear Bet - The Carter Letters: 1861-1863 by John D. Lane - Sid was Company A’s
clerk, and a brother of the first Company's Commanding Officer, Captain William Ingram Bill Carter - Sid died July 8, 1863
from wounds received at the Battle of Gettysburg, Adams County, Pennsylvania a week earlier on July 1st.
CARTER, Cpl. Theodoric L. Theo - Wounded at Spotsylvania, Virginia - Promoted at some point for Meritorious Conduct
CARTER, Col. William Ingram Bill – When the War Between the States began, Colonel Carter was a Captain and former
Commander of the Lynches Creek Guards, a militia group - Wounded at Gaines Mill June 27, 1862 - After becoming Major, he
resigned February 20, 1863 under a surgeon’s certificate, then re-enlisted six months later, August 13, 1863 as Private Carter
in Company E, 3rd Palmetto Battalion Light Artillery (Quartermaster Corps) by order of General Beauregard Jan 1, 1863 - Feb
28, 1865 he was promoted to Major, then Colonel in charge of the 7th Regiment, Calvary, South Carolina Militia. He was
married to S. Caroline Minkie Timmons, a daughter of William Timmons - Col. Carter is buried next to his wife and brother
Giles at Cartersville Cemetery, a fenced cemetery in a field near the main crossroads in Cartersville, (now) Florence County,
just off of U.S. Highway 76, near Timmonsville
CHRISTMAS, Cpl. W. Caleb - Died at Chimborazo Hospital, Richmond, Virginia
COMMANDER, James E. - Died of disease Petersburg, Virginia
COMMANDER, Pvt. J.T. - Enlisted March 12, 1862 Cartersville - Boot Camp: Cartersville - Commanding Officer: Captain
William Ingram Bill Carter
COMMANDER, Pvt. Joseph G. - Enlisted August 10, 1861 Cartersville - Boot Camp: Camp Johnson - Commanding Officer:
Captain William Ingram Bill Carter - Died of wounds at the Battle of Gettysburg, Adams County, Pennsylvania
COMMANDER, 1st Lt. Robert - No information
DARITY, J. - No information
DEESE, Pvt. John - Enlisted August 10, 1861 Cartersville - Boot Camp: Camp Johnson - Commanding Officer: Captain William
Ingram Bill Carter - Died of disease near Winchester, Virginia
DuBOSE, Pvt. A.S. - Enlisted August 10, 1861 Cartersville - Boot Camp: Camp Johnson - Commanding Officer: Captain William
Ingram Bill Carter
DuBOSE, Pvt. Andrew E. - Enlisted May 16, 1862 - Boot Camp: Richmond, Virginia - Commanding Officer: W.R. Joye –
Transferred to Company H, 21st South Carolina Volunteers on June 28, 1864
DuBOSE, E.M. - Aug 31, 1864's muster roll found him hospitalized at Chimborazo Hospital in Richmond, Virginia
DuBOSE, Edward P. - No information
DuBOSE, Pvt. Emory W. (a doctor) - Enlisted August 10, 1861 Cartersville - Boot Camp: Camp Johnson - Commanding Officer:
Captain William Ingram Bill Carter
DuBOSE, Cpl. John Wesley - A close friend of Pvt. John Wesley Alexander, and a major influence into Pvt. Alexander’s joining
the Confederate cause - Corporal DuBose survived the war, and is buried at Cypress Cemetery, Lee County, South Carolina
DuBOSE, Pvt. Julius J. - Enlisted August 10, 1861 Cartersville - Boot Camp: Camp Johnson - Commanding Officer: Captain
William Ingram Bill Carter - Died of disease at Camp Butler
DuBOSE, Sgt. Samuel C. - No information
DORITY, Pvt. James - Enlisted August 10, 1861 Cartersville - Boot Camp: Camp Johnson - Commanding Officer: Captain
William Ingram Bill Carter
EMERSON, J. - No information
FIELDS, Pvt. Augustus A. Art - Enlisted March 12, 1862 at Cartersville – Boot Camp: Cartersville – Commanding Officer:
Captain William Ingram Bill Carter – Found hospitalized at Chimborazo Hospital in Richmond, Virginia on August 31, 1864
FIELDS, Eng. Calvin - Enlisted August 10, 1861 Cartersville - Boot Camp: Camp Johnson - Commanding Officer: Captain
William Ingram Bill Carter
FIELDS, P. Columbus - Died of wounds at the Battle of Gettysburg, Adams County, Pennsylvania
FIELDS, Pvt. Ransom J. - Enlisted August 10, 1861 at Cartersville - Boot Camp: Camp Johnson - Commanding Officer: Captain
William Ingram Bill Carter
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GARNER, Pvt. Wesley S. - Enlisted September 25, 1861 – Boot Camp: Camp Gregg near Aiken, South Carolina - Commanding
Officer: Captain E.H. Seabrook
GARNER, Pvt. William - Enlisted June 19, 1862 Cartersville – Boot Camp: Cartersville - Commanding Officer: Captain William
Ingram Bill Carter - Died at Oxford Mill, Richmond, Virginia
GOWDY, Cpl. William A. - No information
HAGUEWOOD, (known now as Hagood to many in the family), Pvt. W. Henry - Enlisted August 10, 1861 Cartersville - Boot
Camp: Camp Johnson - Commanding Officer: Captain William Ingram Bill Carter
HAGUEWOOD, Pvt. Winfield Scott a.k.a. Winfield Scott Hagood - Enlisted March 12, 1862 - b. about 1832 d. April 25, 1867 Boot Camp: Cartersville - Commanding Officer: Captain William Ingram "Bill" Carter - found hospitalized Columbia, South
Carolina August 31, 1864 - Marriage: Margarete E. Frassie Northcutt, Born Aug 4, 1833, died September 19, 1917 - Mr. and
Mrs. Hagood are buried at Cypress Cemetery, Lee County, South Carolina - Mr. Hagood's military marker was erected
December 2011
HAIGLER, Joshua - No information
HAM, Cpl. Edgar M. - Enlisted August 10, 1861 Cartersville - Boot Camp: Camp Johnson - Commanding Officer: Captain
William Ingram Bill Carter
HAM, Pvt. James A. - Enlisted August 10, 1861 Cartersville - Boot Camp: Camp Johnson - Commanding Officer: Captain
William Ingram Bill Carter – Died early on in Company A’s journey of disease at Pocotaligo, near Beaufort, South Carolina
HANCOCK, Pvt. John - Enlisted August 10, 1861 Cartersville - Boot Camp: Camp Johnson - Commanding Officer: Captain
William Ingram Bill Carter - Died at Gaines Mill, Hanover County, Virginia - The battle was June 27, 1862, known both as the
First Battle of Cold Harbor and the Battle of the Chickahominy River
HARRELL, Lt. John W. - No information
HARRIS, Pvt. J.C.G. - Enlisted April 23, 1864 Cartersville – Boot Camp: Cartersville - Commanding Officer: T.W. Carwile
HARRIS, Theodore J. - No information
HOOTEN, Pvt. Samuel C. Sam - Enlisted August 10, 1861 Cartersville - Boot Camp: Camp Johnson - Commanding Officer:
Captain William Ingram Bill Carter - Died of disease Pocotaligo, South Carolina
HOWELL, Sgt. William B. - Wounded at Gaines Mill, Hanover County, Virginia - The battle was June 27, 1862, known as both
the First Battle of Cold Harbor and the Battle of the Chickahominy River
HOWELL, Cpl. James A. - No information
HUDSON, Pvt. Evan - Enlisted March 3, 1862 Cartersville – Boot Camp: Cartersville - Commanding Officer: Captain William
Ingram Bill Carter - August 31, 1864 In the hands of the enemy
HUDSON, Thomas G. - No information
HUGGINS, Pvt. Hillary L. - Enlisted August 10, 1861 Cartersville - Boot Camp: Camp Johnson - Commanding Officer: Captain
William Ingram Bill Carter - August 31, 1864's muster roll found him In the hands of the enemy
HUGGINS, H.M. - On August 31, 1864 was In the hands of the enemy
HUGGINS, Sgt. S. Mack - No information
HUGGINS, Pvt. Sam S. - Enlisted August 10, 1861 Cartersville - Boot Camp: Camp Johnson - Commanding Officer: Captain
William Ingram Bill Carter
HUGGINS, Pvt. J.E. - Enlisted August 10, 1861 - Boot Camp: Camp Johnson - Commanding Officer: Captain William Ingram
Bill Carter
HURSE, J. Edmond - No information
HURSE, Simeon - No information
IVEY, Pvt. Joel - Enlisted March 12, 1862 at Cartersville - Boot Camp: Cartersville - Commanding Officer: Captain William
Ingram Bill Carter - Died of disease at home
JONES, James W. - Died at the Battle of Gettysburg, Adams County, Pennsylvania
JONES, Sgt. Joshua W. - On a muster roll (no date): In the hands of the enemy
JORDAN, Pvt. Noah - Enlisted August 10, 1861 Cartersville - Boot Camp: Camp Johnson - Commanding Officer: Captain
William Ingram Bill Carter – Died of disease at home
KILPATRICK, Elias F. - Enlisted March 12, 1862 at Cartersville - Boot Camp: Cartersville - Commanding Officer: Captain
William Ingram Bill Carter
KNOTTS, Pvt. Elisha - Enlisted August 10, 1861 Cartersville - Boot Camp: Camp Johnson - Commanding Officer: Captain
William Ingram Bill Carter – Discharged August 10, 1864 at Chaffin's Farm, Henrico County, Virginia
LAND, Cpl. John H. - No information
LARGE, Pvt. Francis Marion - Enlisted August 10, 1861 Cartersville - Boot Camp: Camp Johnson - Commanding Officer:
Captain William Ingram Bill Carter - Marion survived the war, and is buried at Cypress Cemetery, Lee County, South Carolina
LAYTON, Pvt. James - Enlisted August 10, 1861 Cartersville - Boot Camp: Camp Johnson - Commanding Officer: Captain
William Ingram Bill Carter
LUCAS, Pvt. Joseph Joe - Enlisted August 10, 1861 Cartersville - Boot Camp: Camp Johnson - Commanding Officer: Captain
William Ingram Bill Carter - Died March 22, 1925 - Marriage: Jane Hicks, who died just eight days later, although they
suffered separate maladies - He was a son of Sherrod Lucas and Elizabeth Cooper - Burial was Grove Hill Cemetery,
Darlington County, South Carolina - According to a great grandson, Stephen Alexander Jones, Mr. Lucas' grave went
unmarked for years until an Iron Cross marker was place there by the Daughters of the Confederacy years ago, and after that
a marker was put there by the Sons of the Confederacy - Joe and Jane had at least one daughter, Annie Lucas who married
Alexander Calvin Jones
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McCOY, Robert - No information
McKAY, Pvt. Robert - Enlisted August 10, 1861 at Cartersville - Boot Camp: Camp Johnson - Commanding Officer: Captain
William Ingram Bill Carter - Died of disease at Camp Gregg near Aiken, South Carolina
McLENDON, Simeon A. - Enlisted August 10, 1861 Cartersville - Boot Camp: Cartersville - Commanding Officer: Captain
William Ingram Bill Carter - Transferred to McIntosh’s Battery
MARX, Pvt. Jacob - Enlisted August 10, 1861 at Cartersville - Boot Camp: Cartersville - Commanding Officer: Captain William
Ingram Bill Carter - On August 31, 1864 he was in the hands of the enemy
MIMS, Pvt. David J. - Enlisted August 10, 1861 Cartersville - Boot Camp: Camp Johnson - Commanding Officer: Captain
William Ingram Bill Carter
MIMS, Pvt. James P. - Enlisted August 10, 1861 Cartersville - Boot Camp: Camp Johnson - Commanding Officer: Captain
William Ingram Bill Carter
MIMS, Pvt. J.W. - Enlisted March 12, 1862 Cartersville - Boot Camp: Cartersville - Commanding Officer: Captain William
Ingram Bill Carter
MIMS, 1st Lt. Nathan - No information
MIMS, Pvt. Robert M. - Enlisted March 12, 1862 Cartersville – Boot Camp: Cartersville - Commanding Officer: Captain William
Ingram Bill Carter
MIMS, Pvt. William W. - Enlisted August 10, 1861 at Cartersville - Boot Camp: Camp Johnson - Wounded at the Battle
of Gettysburg, Adams County, Pennsylvania
MOORE, Pvt. William J. - Enlisted August 10, 1861 Cartersville - Boot Camp: Camp Johnson - Commanding Officer: Captain
William Ingram Bill Carter
MOX, G. - No information
NORRIS, Pvt. James R. - Enlisted August 10, 1861 Cartersville - Boot Camp: Camp Johnson - Commanding Officer: Captain
William Ingram Bill Carter - Died of disease near Lynchburg, Virginia January 2, 1863
OXENDYNE, Pvt. Warren (possibly Warner) - Enlisted August 10, 1861 Cartersville - Boot Camp: Camp Johnson Commanding Officer: Captain William Ingram Bill Carter - Wounded at Spotsylvania Court House, Virginia - Died May 23, 1864
- Battle dates were May 8-21, 1864
PARNELL, Pvt. George W. - Enlisted March 12, 1862 Cartersville – Boot Camp: Cartersville - Commanding Officer: Captain
William Ingram Bill Carter
PARNELL, Pvt. Harman G. - Enlisted August 10, 1861 Cartersville - Boot Camp: Camp Johnson - Commanding Officer: Captain
William Ingram Bill Carter - Wounded at the Battle of Gettysburg, Adams County, Pennsylvania
PARNELL, Pvt. J. Ellis - Enlisted August 10, 1861 Cartersville - Boot Camp: Camp Johnson - Commanding Officer: Captain
William Ingram Bill Carter - Found hospitalized at Chimborazo Hospital on August 31, 1864 in Richmond, Virginia.
PARNELL, Pvt. James H. - Enlisted August 10, 1861 Cartersville - Boot Camp: Cartersville - Commanding Officer: Captain
William Ingram Bill Carter
PARNELL, Pvt. J. Robert - Enlisted August 10, 1861 Cartersville - Boot Camp: Camp Johnson - Commanding Officer: Captain
William Ingram Bill Carter - On August 31, 1864's muster roll he was found hospitalized in Columbia, South Carolina
PARNELL, Pvt. W. Capers - Enlisted March 12, 1862 Cartersville – Boot Camp: Cartersville - Commanding Officer: Captain
William Ingram Bill Carter
RAINES, Cpl. Thaddeus Patrick - Enlisted August 10, 1861 Cartersville - Boot Camp: Camp Johnson - Commanding Officer:
Captain William Ingram Bill Carter
RANDOLPH, Pvt. Addison - Enlisted August 10, 1861 Cartersville – Boot Camp: Cartersville - Commanding Officer: Captain
William Ingram Bill Carter
REYNOLDS, Pvt. A. - Enlisted: Jul 15, 1862 Cartersville - Boot Camp: Cartersville - Commanding Officer: Captain Charles M.
Charlie Stuckey
REYNOLDS, Elijah - Close of Service was at Gaines Station
REYNOLDS, William Chappell – Died at the Battle of Gettysburg, Adams County, Pennsylvania
REYNOLDS, Cpl. Samuel - Discharged August 10, 1864 Chaffin’s Farm, Henrico County, Pennsylvania - The battle was
September 29th and 30th, 1864
ROSE, Pvt. John - Enlisted August 10, 1861 Cartersville - Boot Camp: Camp Johnson - Commanding Officer: Captain William
Ingram Bill Carter
SANDERS, Pvt. William - Enlisted March 12, 1862 Cartersville - Boot Camp: Cartersville – Commanding Officer: Captain
William Ingram Bill Carter - Died of disease Chimborazo Hospital, Richmond, Virginia
SAVERANCE, Pvt. Elias J. - Enlisted August 10, 1861 Cartersville - Boot Camp: Camp Johnson - Commanding Officer: Captain
William Ingram Bill Carter
SAVERANCE, Pvt. George W. - Enlisted March 12, 1862 Cartersville – Boot Camp: Cartersville - Commanding Officer: Captain
William Ingram Bill Carter - Died August 16, 1864 at Fusel’s Mill, Virginia
SAVERANCE, Pvt. Joshua J.W. - Enlisted March 12, 1862 Cartersville - Boot: Cartersville - Commanding Officer: Captain
William Ingram Bill Carter - Died near Petersburg, Virginia
SAVERANCE, Pvt. Paul A. - No information
SCAFF, Pvt. James J. - Enlisted August 10, 1861 Cartersville - Boot Camp: Cartersville - Commanding Officer: Captain William
Ingram Bill Carter
SCAFF, Pvt. Riley - Enlisted August 10, 1861 Cartersville - Boot Camp: Cartersville - Commanding Officer: Captain William
Ingram Bill Carter - Died of disease near Petersburg, Virginia
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SCARBOROUGH, Lt. Addison M. - Died May 12, 1864 Spotsylvania Court House, Spotsylvania County, Virginia - The battle
lasted from May 8 through 12.
SCARBOROUGH, Pvt. George P. - Enlisted May 1, 1862 - Boot Camp: Georgetown, Winyah County, South Carolina Commanding Officer: J.A.F. Elliott - Wounded at Petersburg, Virginia
SCOFFIELD, Pvt. J.I. - Enlisted August 10, 1861 Cartersville - Boot Camp: Camp Johnson - Commanding Officer: Captain
William Ingram Bill Carter
SKINNER, Pvt. James R. - Enlisted August 10, 1861 Cartersville - Boot Camp: Camp Johnson - Commanding Officer: Captain
William Ingram Bill Carter - Died of disease at Chimborazo Hospital, Richmond, Virginia, one of the largest military hospitals of
its time
SMITH, Pvt. Reddick K. - Enlisted October 15, 1861 - Boot Camp: Camp Gregg near Aiken, South Carolina - Commanding
Officer: Captain E.H. Seabrook
SMITH, Pvt. Richard - Enlisted March 12, 1862 at Cartersville - Boot Camp: Cartersville - Died of disease at home
STEDHAM, L.D. - No information
STEDHAM, S.D. - No information
STUCKEY, Sgt. Alexander Fairchild Alex - Wounded three times: (1) 2nd Battle of Manassas, Virginia; (2) Battle of Gettysburg,
Adams County, Pennsylvania; and the (3) Battle of the Wilderness, Virginia
STUCKEY, Capt. Charles M. Charlie - Found incapacitated at Chancellorsville, Virginia May 3, 1863 - He was a person whom
Pvt. John Wesley Alexander spoke of in his 1932 Reminiscence - Buried at Cypress Cemetery, Lee County, South Carolina
STUCKEY, Pvt. John W. - Enlisted August 10, 1861 Cartersville - Boot Camp: Camp Johnson - Commanding Officer: Captain
William Ingram Bill Carter - Wounded at the Battle of Gettysburg, Adams County, Pennsylvania
THOMAS, Pvt. Robert E. - Boot Camp: Camp Johnson - Commanding Officer: Captain William Ingram Bill Carter - Transferred
to Company F, 8th Infantry (Darlington District)
TRUETT, Pvt. James A.F. - Enlisted August 10, 1861 Cartersville - Boot Camp: Camp Johnson - Commanding Officer: Captain
William Ingram Bill Carter - Wounded at the Battle of Gettysburg, Adams County, Pennsylvania
TRUETT, Pvt. John D. - Enlisted August 10, 1861 Cartersville - Boot: Johnson - Commanding Officer: Captain William Ingram
Bill Carter - Died at the Battle of Gettysburg, Adams County, Pennsylvania
WALKER, F.M. - No information
WALKER, J.T. - No information
WALKER, Marion - Died at Oxford Mill, Richmond, Virginia
WATFORD, Pvt. A.M. - Enlisted August 10, 1861 Cartersville - Boot Camp: Camp Johnson - Commanding Officer: Captain
William Ingram Bill Carter
WATFORD, Pvt. J. Nelson - Enlisted August 10, 1861 Cartersville - Boot Camp: Camp Johnson - Commanding Officer: Captain
William Ingram Bill Carter - Wounded at Richmond, Virginia in 1862 - Close of service at Camp Gregg
WATFORD, Pvt. John R. - Enlisted August 10, 1861 Cartersville - Boot Camp: Camp Johnson - Commanding Officer: Captain
William Ingram Bill Carter
WATFORD, Mitchell – Wounded at the Battle of the Wilderness (Virginia)
WATFORD, Pvt. Moses - Enlisted April 23, 1862 Cartersville - Boot Camp: Cartersville
WELCH, Pvt. Richard - Enlisted August 10, 1861 Cartersville - Boot Camp: Camp Johnson - Commanding Officer: Captain
William Ingram Bill Carter - On August 31, 1864 his muster roll found him wounded at the Battle of Gettysburg, Adams
County, Pennsylvania, In the hands of the enemy
WILDER, Pvt. James T. - Enlisted August 10, 1861 Cartersville - Boot Camp: Camp Johnson - Commanding Officer: Captain
William Ingram Bill Carter - Wounded at one of the two Manassas battles in Virginia
WILKINS, John - No information
WILSON, Pvt. R.K. - Enlisted October 25, 1863 Cartersville - Boot Camp: Cartersville - Commanding Officer: L.B. (?) - On
August 31, 1864, hospitalized at Chimborazo Hospital, a gigantic military hospital in then downtown Richmond, Virginia. The
campus had approximately 250 buildings, and was the largest hospital of the Civil War.
WILSON, Robert L. - No information
WINDHAM, Pvt. C. McKibben - Enlisted August 10, 1861 Cartersville – Boot Camp: Camp Johnson - Commanding Officer:
Captain William Ingram Bill Carter
WINDHAM, E. - No information
WINDHAM, Pvt. Harry L. (possibly J.) - Enlisted August 10, 1861 Cartersville - Boot Camp: Camp Johnson – Commanding
Officer: Captain William Ingram Bill Carter - Transferred to Company F, 8th Infantry (Darlington District)
WINDHAM, Cpl. Gabriel - No information
WINDHAM, Pvt. John P. - Enlisted August 10, 1861 Cartersville - Boot Camp: Camp Johnson - Commanding Officer: Captain
William Ingram Bill Carter - Transferred to Company F, 8th Infantry (Darlington District)
WINDHAM, John W. - No information
WINDHAM, Moses G. - Died April 17, 1863 at Camp Gregg
WRIGHT, Pvt. Elias - Enlisted October 21, 1861 Cartersville - Boot Camp: Camp Gregg near Aiken, South Carolina Commanding Officer: Captain E.H. Seabrook
WRIGHT, Pvt. John - Enlisted August 10, 1861 Cartersville - Boot Camp: Camp Johnson - Commanding Officer: Captain
William Ingram Bill Carter - August 31, 1864's muster roll listed him as in the hands of the enemy, after he was wounded at
the Battle of Gettysburg, Adams County, Pennsylvania
WRIGHT, Pvt. Pinckney - Died of disease at Camp Gregg
PERIODICALS OF THE LINEAGE REGION
Darlington District/County area:
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The Darlington Flag 1851-1861
The Family Friend (Darlington) 1857-1857
The Darlington Southerner 1859-1883
The Confederation (weekly) 1860-1861
The New Era (Darlington) 1865-1866
The Darlington Democrat 1868-1871
The Darlington Index 1871-187?
The Darlington News 1875-1909
The Pee Dee Watchman (Darlington) 1877-1879
The Darlington Vindicator 1884-1886
Gossip (Darlington weekly) 1887
The Darlington Herald 1890-1895
Lamar Bulletin (weekly) 1891-1892
The Hartsville Messenger 1893-1898
The Reform Sentinel (Darlington) 1893-1895
The Darlingtonian 1895-1902
Carolina Planter (monthly) 1895-1898 (originally a
Florence publication that moved to Darlington in
1897)
The Daily Index (Darlington) 1896-1896
The Daily Record (Darlington) 1896-1896 (begun by
the owners of the Darlingtonian)
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Kapsack (Darlington weekly) 1897 in association
with the Darlington Guards, a local military unit.
X Rava, (Lamar weekly) published 1897-1898
Lamar Leader (weekly) 1898 (no additional
information)
The County Messenger (Darlington) 1898-1907
The Courier (Darlington weekly) 1899
Hartsville Herald (weekly) 1899-1900
Present Truth, (Lamar weekly) 1900-1904 (Seventh
Day Advent 1st Church)
The New Era (Darlington) 1903-1906
The Darlington Press 1906-1909
Hartsville Messenger 1908-current
The News and Press (Darlington) 1909-current
The Society Hill News 1910-1911
The Daily Observer (Darlington) 1912-1912
The Builder (Darlington) 1924-1926
The Hartsville News 1938-1938
The Darlington County Tribune (Hartsville) 19721979
Florence County:
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The Florence Pioneer 1872-1876
The Timmonsville News 1875-187?
Florence Times 1876-1896
The Farmers' Friend (Timmonsville) 1887-1889
The Florence Messenger 1889-1896
The Reform Advocate (Florence) 1893-1914
The Florence Daily Times 1894-1925
The Timmonsville Enterprise 1895-1925
The Times-Messenger (Florence) 1896-1919
The Banner Messenger (Florence) 1896-1896
The Dewey Eagle (Lake City) 1898-1901
The Evening Herald (Florence) 1903-1904
The Rutledge County News (Lake City) 1908-1910
Lake City News 1910-1972
The Olanta Observer 1915-1920
The Watchman and Defender (Timmonsville) 1920-
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The Weekly News Review (Florence) 1922-1923
The Morning News Review (Florence) 1923-1929
Florence County Journal (Timmonsville) 1925-1929
The Timmonsville News 1925-1933
1931
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Morning News (Florence) 1929-1945
The Florence Advertiser 1932-1932
The Advertiser (Timmonsville) 1934-1934
Timmonsville News-Argus 1937-1937
The Florence Evening Star 1939-1941
The Florence Star 1941-1941
Florence Morning News (now, again Morning News)
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The Timmonsville Times 1946-1958
The Times-Herald (Lake City) 1949-1967
The Florentine (Florence) 1957-1958
The Timmonsville News 1964-1972
Florence Times 1965-1970
The Lake City Post 1968-1972
Lake City News and Post 1972-current
The Examiner (Florence) 1977-1978
The Florence Journal 1978-1983
Pee Dee Times (Florence) 1987-1992
The Times (Florence) 1992-current
1945-current
Bishopville area (Lee County, Sumter County, old Sumter District):
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Sumter Gazette and Constitutional Advocate 1830-
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The Southern Whig 1832-1834
The Sumter Gazette 1845-1845
The Sumter Banner 1846-1855
The Black River Watchman 1850-1855
Tri-Weekly Watchman 1850-1863
The Sumter Watchmen 1855-1881
1833
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The Sumter Dispatch 1860-1861
Semi-Weekly Watchman 1863-1863
The Sumter News 1866-1873
The True Southron 1873-1881
The Spirit of the Times 1881-1884
The Sumter Advance 1881-1892
The Watchman and Southron 1881-1930
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Bishopville Enterprise 1888-1888 (Bishopville’s
incorporation year)
Bishopville Eagle 1888–1893
The Freeman 1891-1906
The Sumter Herald 1892-1952
The Sumter Daily Item 1894-1987
Evening News 1895-1896
The Mirror 1896-1897
The Banner of Freedom 18??-18??
The Item 1987-current
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The Defender 1902-1913
The Leader and Vindicator 1902-1923
The Samaritan Herald 1909-1942
Lee County Messenger 1923-1982
The People’s Informer 1936-1941
The Recon Record 1957-195?
The Sumter News 1967-1981
Lee County Observer 1977-current
Also worth mentioning is the family researcher’s friend, as I call it, Southern Christian Advocate. It started publication in 1837,
and ceased in 1948 to provide involved states a more single-state approach as opposed to the three states it served. It has been a
tremendous source of information for genealogists, but was not what one would call the news. It was actually not very timely. When
placed in subscriber’s mailboxes, especially for items like obituaries, it had become old news, but nevertheless quite informative. The
earlier paper was written and put together by Methodist clergy in South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida, and did have importance to its
subscribers because many people didn’t have a newspaper or other periodical in their area to get their information, only word of mouth.
It was very church-oriented, and many articles were written by Methodist ministers who were familiar with certain churches and their
parishioners, and some who were not.
Copies of Southern Christian Advocate are archived at Sandor Teszler Library, located on the grounds of Wofford College in
Spartanburg, South Carolina. They’re available in print or microfilm. The Advocate was later replaced by South Carolina Methodist
Advocate which started in 1948 and lasted until the change in 1968 when the United Methodist Church philosophy was adapted for
most of its churches and congregations. It then became South Carolina United Methodist Advocate, beginning in 1968 and it’s still
being published. For more information, visit Sandor Teszler, or google the library’s website.
UNCLE LEE’S STORYTELLING
Uncle Lee, a son of Joe and Fannie Alexander, was Lee Alexander, a wise well-respected Christian man who told
funny stories with his own unique brand of humor. I almost believe that if I ever looked up the word wisdom in the
dictionary, Uncle Lee’s photo would be there. Years ago, he told stories to his grandson Michael Jensen, while a cassette
tape recorded it. I like to think these stories as sort of a time capsule into what it was like in the earlier part of the
1900s, especially where he lived in South Carolina.
˃ ˃ “I ain't never seen anybody so scared in my life. His eyes was shining like two little moons. The way it started
was Silas said he was not scared of haints, because haints won't bother a child of God. I asked him if he had ever see a
haint. He said, ‘No sir, Mr. Lee, a child of God don't see haints.’ So I said, ‘Silas, I'll tell you what I'll do. Since you are
a child of God, and not scared of haints, tonight I'll take a dollar bill and put it on one of those new tombstones out
there behind Howard Chapel Church and let you go with me to see me put the dollar on the grave. If you will go back
and get it, you can have it.’
‘Yes sir, I'll do it. You won't have that dollar when I come back. It will be mine sho' as the world.’
So I said, ‘What if you get out there and see a haint?’
‘No haint ain't gonna bother me. I'm a child of God.’
John Carraway wasn't saying anything, but he was over there in the yard listening and laughing. He was so tickled…
he was eating it up.
So, I said, ‘Okay, you come over here tonight, and I'll let you see me put the dollar on the grave and we'll go
back to the road in front of the church. I'll stay at the road, and let you go back and get the dollar, and if you don't see
a haint and don't nothing bother you, that's your dollar bill.’
I knew * Belvin would get a sheet and go to the graveyard and we would have some fun. From Silas’ house,
straight across the woods there was a footpath that led straight to the cemetery and on to the church. John came over
there before night and I said, ‘No, we can't do it yet. It has to be dark.’ I had talked with Belvin and he was gonna get
the sheet and take the footpath, and me and John were gonna take Silas and go around the road and come to the front
of the church. Belvin was going to come in behind it. At night you couldn't see no-how. The moon wasn't shining but
just a little bit. So we went around the road and we kinda took it slow to give Belvin time to come in from the back. I
said, ‘First we need to make sure this place is clear of haints. Silas, you go around one side of this church, and I'll go
around the other and we will meet at the back.’ I was trying to see where Belvin was. I saw something white kinda
piled up at a grave, so I said, ‘Right yonder at that new grave is where I want to put this dollar bill.’ I showed him the
dollar bill. We got over there and Belvin jumped up. Silas started hollering and running backwards and fell back over a
brush pile and was scramblin' trying to get up. His feet was spinning out from under him… he was just spinnin' and
hollerin'. Finally, he got up and ran to the road. And ol' John, he got tickled. ** Lilly Bell and *** Edith heard us
laughing from the house.
We got back out to the road and Silas was so nervous he couldn't hardly stand it. I said, ‘Silas, you said you are
a child of God, and a child of God ain't scared. He said, ‘Yes sir, Mr. Lee, I am a child of God, but the devil would run
from that thing.’ He said he hadn't ever seen anything like that before. It looked like a big gray horse jumped up and
reared up on him. I said, ‘It shore did look that-a-way. That was the biggest haint... that was a grown haint!’ Silas
said, ‘Yeah, he sho' was.’
I said, ‘You know, somehow or other, I believe we imagined all that. Let's go back out there again.’ So, he went
'round one side of the church and I went around the other, and he was scared and going faster because he wanted to
meet me at the back. Belvin ran right into him. Silas nearly died. He fell down and rolled and was cuttin' summersets,
and tried to get away and see where it was. He was squatted down and saw it again and he made a lunge and went
between John Carraway's legs and threw him in the bottom of that deep ditch there beside the road. We did have a
laugh then. I said, ‘Silas, I'm gonna take a little walk and see if I can find it. About that time old Barry and his wife who
live right there near the church came out to see what was going on.’ They had heard the commotion. Barry said, ‘It's a
graveyard haint. That's what it is.’ I told them that Belvin and I would get the dogs and try to track him down. I said,
‘They will hem him up and bay him somewhere. I want to see how big he is.’ Silas said, ‘He'll hurt them dogs. It's a big
un!’ I said that I didn't think so. We was walking back to the house and I was talking to Silas. Belvin, still in the sheet
moved back to the road end of the avenue up to Silas’ house. When we got to Silas’ mailbox, Belvin made a dive at
Silas, and he started hollering and trying to run and his feet kept slipping in the sand. He ran up the avenue hollering,
‘Open the door...open the door!’ That broke up the plans to hunt him with the dogs.
Belvin and I went home. In a few minutes ol' Snoops and Barry came to the house and asked if we had seen
something. We said, ‘Yes… we had seen something.’ Ol’ Snoops said, ‘Thank God, I believe!’ I told him John Carraway
saw it too. He said, ‘If you and Mr. Carraway seen it, it's as good as if I seen it myself.’ Snoops said that from what
Silas said, it had to be a haint. I said, ‘It sure was something.’ They left.
At break of day they was all in the broom sage field looking for tracks or evidence that haint left. They found a
half-eat rabbit and knew it was that haint that ate him. ‘Thank God. I believe! I believe!’ is what he was saying.
We never told Silas it was us. I saw him several years ago at that store that Wilbur Hicks was running. He was
living over there. When he saw me, he started grinning. I said, ‘Silas, what are you grinning about? I was thinking
about that night the haint got in behind us.’ I said, ‘He shore did. Yep, he liked to got us.’
John and I have laughed about that many a time. But Silas never wanted to get a dollar off a grave again.”
Footnotes: * Belvin was Lee’s brother. ** Lilly Bell was John Carraway’s wife. *** Edith was Lee’s wife.
˃ ˃ “Willie Ward was driving his motorcycle with the side car. It happened up there at Mr. Jasper Hill's. I was in the
side car. That rascal tried to get in the side car with me.
Every time Mr. Jasper's big bulldog heard the motorcycle coming he would run after it. He heard Willie and me
coming and he ran out the yard and down that dirt road after us. He caught us and was trying to get in the side car
with me. He looked like he meant business. I reached around and grabbed his long tail with both hands and hollered,
Willie, give her the gas! We drug that big heavy dog way up the road with him hollering. Finally, my hands gave out
and I turned him loose. He went hopping back to the house. When we came back from town, we didn't see him. It
was a long time before I ever saw that bulldog again and we were not on the motorcycle. When he heard a motorcycle
coming, he went around behind the house.”
˃ ˃ “Jim Ward was going to town one day. He had a new Ranger bicycle. Old Herbert Jackson, a colored feller who
lived on Mr. Bill Reddick’s place, had a black-spotted dog that was mean. The dog ran out there and tried to bite him.
Jim said to himself, ‘That's all right, I'll fix you when I come back.’ So, he bought a water gun and a bottle of Sloan's
Liniment. Before he got there he poured that water gun full of Sloan's Liniment. He was ready for him. Going home,
that dog ran out and Jim stuck the gun down at him and pulled the trigger. The liniment went in his eyes. Jim said the
dog jumped about four feet in the air. He was hollering and clawing and running. He ran into the corner of the house.
After that, he never chased a bicycle again, in fact, he hid from bicycles.”
˃ ˃ “Pa come in one day. He was late coming in. He had been fishing. All the rest of us had eat dinner. He eat his
dinner come out on the porch where we was and said, ‘You all like strawberries?’ We said, ‘Yes.’ He said, ‘There's some
in a bowl yonder.’ We took off to the kitchen and there was a bowl with strawberries painted in it. He didn't tell a story.
There was strawberries. He laughed at that.”
˃ ˃ “One time Pa was laying down on the porch right over a knothole. I got me a pin and put it in a straw and
crawled under the house. * Clifton was watching, and knew what I was going to do. He was laying over a knothole too.
He was laying there waiting to see Pa jump… and I stuck him (Clifton).”
Footnote: * Lee’s older brother
˃ ˃ “Something happened when we lived at * John's that I never understood. Dreams! Yes, I believe in them
sometimes, but this was unusual. There was a path... this same path that Belvin took through the woods with his sheet.
There was a tobacco bed on the right side of it. I had not been through there in a long, long time. I couldn't remember
when I had been through there, but I dreamed one night that there was a teaspoon stuck up into the top of the ground
on that tobacco bed. It wasn't laying down. Somebody was pulling plants, and I went there and looked at it, and it was
a Rogers silverware spoon. In the dream, I stuck it back down, and said to myself, ‘Whosever it is, they will get it.’
Several days later I was still thinking about the dream, so I said to myself, ‘I'm just going to look.’ I went and there was
a teaspoon sticking up out of the ground just like I had dreamed. I picked it up and looked. It was a Rogers spoon.”
Footnote: * John Carraway
˃ ˃ Lee’s grandson, Michael Jensen asked Lee about a trick he once played on his father, Joe Alexander, involving
liniment. Lee replied, “Oooohhh… that was a dirty trick. I shouldn't have done that. There was Ma, Clifton, and
Kenneth there, but it was always me he wanted to rub his back. I would get that liniment on my hands and wash and
wash and wash and the scent wouldn't come off. I could wash all I pleased and couldn't get that odor off. So that night
I come in and Pa was getting ready to go to bed and he said, ‘Son, get your liniment and rub my back.’ So I said,
‘Okay.’ I got the liniment. He pulled off his shirt and turned his back to the fire. I held my hand between his shoulder
blades, and poured the liniment in my hands. You know that little sink in your back? I turned the liniment loose, and let
it hit the canal. Pa started jumping around and said, ‘My Lord have mercy, you have burnt me up!’ He took off running.
He ran out to the sink, pumped water hard as he could and jumped up and down in the water. Ma was about to die
laughing. I was soooo sorry. Ooooh, I wouldn't have had nothing like that happen for anything in the world. Pa said,
‘Boy, I believe you meant to do it.’ We all had a good laugh. If he ever asked me to rub his back again, I don't
remember it.”