___________
APPENDIX
C
___________
The Bird S.
Jones Papers
University of
Texas at Austin
Center for
American History
Barker
Library
Gift of Damages
Petty, Ida,
Louisiana, June 7, 1936
Letter 1: 1825,
March 23. Agreement between Thos.
I. Smith and H.L. Gray to establish and keep a
house of
entertainment in Brownsville, Haywood County, Tennessee.
Letter 2: 1832,
April 15. A. T. Smith,
Pope County, A. T. to Guy or Thomas I. Smith, Durhamville
(Lauderdale Co.), Tennessee. Urges them to come out where he is to
settle.
Letter 3: 1833,
April 13. Henry Jones,
New Orleans, to Bird S. Jones, Poplar Corner, Madison
County,
Tennessee. Offers him employment as a log buyer.
Letter 4: 1835,
June 7.
Thomas I. Smith, Cole Creek, to Bird S. Jones, Poplar Corner,
Tennessee.
About going on a land prospecting trip to Red
River.
Letter 5: 1835,
July 14.
Thomas I. Smith, Cole Creek, Tennessee to same. Trip to Red River
delayed.
Letter 6: 1838,
Nov. 15. Thomas
Crutcher, Red River County, (Texas) to Bird Jones, Cherryville,
Tennessee. Describes
the land, land prices, advantages and drawbacks—
very pleased with his location.
Letter 7: 1839,
Aug. 26. Thomas
I. Smith, Lauderdale County (Tennessee) to Bird S. or Guy S.
Jones, Cherryville, Tennessee. Has just returned from Texas. Will tell
them
about Texas when they come to see him.
Letter 8: 1841,
Nov. 28.
Jones S. Jones, Gay Hill, Washington County (Texas) to Bird S. Jones,
Cherryville, Tennessee. Death of his brother Henry, and of his uncle
Abram, who was killed by Indians three months ago. Prospect good
for
farmers. Guy has just arrived.
Letter 9: 1845,
Nov. 28.
Thomas I. Smith, Chambers Creek, Robinson (Robertson) County,
(Texas) to Bird S. Jones, Cherryville, Tennessee. Urges him to
come
to Texas. John is here and is pleased.
Letter 10: 1847,
July 1.
Jones S. Jones, Washington County, Texas to Bird S. Jones, Cherryville,
Tennessee. Reports death of Thomas Webb. Tells how his wife
became
cripple. Crop prospects are fine. John McClellan visited him; he lives
near
Thomas I. Smith, who has just returned from the Mexican War. News
of
relatives and acquaintances who live in Texas: Bird Pullen, Guy
Stokes,
Uncle McClellan, Bob Parks, Homer Thrall, Alfred B. F.
Kerr.
Letter 11: 1847,
Sept. 21. B. B.
Smith, Ripley, Mississippi to Bird S. Jones, Cherryville,
Tennessee.
His eyesight is poor. General Bradford has returned from the
Mexican
War. Saw Tom at Comargo. (Thomas I. Smith is a brother of B. B.
Smith). Social news.
Letter 12: 1848,
May 2.
B. B. Smith, Ripley, Mississippi to Bird S. Jones, Cherryville,
Tennessee.
Reports the death of his brother Thomas I. Smith at Austin, Texas,
March 30, 1848. Gives news of family and
connections.
Letter 13: 1848,
June 12. B.
B. Smith, Ripley, Mississippi to Bird S. Jones, Cherryville,
Tennessee.
Personal and local news. P.S. says Thos. I. Smith died at
Houston.
Letter 14: 1848,
Aug. 5. John
S. Jones, Montville, Washington County, Texas to his brother Bird
S. Jones, Cherryville, Haywood County, Tennessee. Uncle Thomas
Smith died March 30, at Austin. Cousin Jane Mitchel died June 14.
Bird
Pullen lives near Houston; his brother Thomas is dead. Family
news.
Letter 15: 1857,
May 25.
John S. Jones, Washington County, Texas to Bird S. Jones,
Cherry-
ville, Tennessee. Crop prospects are poor. His health is poor. Has
not
heard from relatives. News of McClellan, Jeff Wilson, Bird Pullen,
Texas Democrats, Nat Terry, Sam Houston.
Letter 16: 1862,
Feb 3.
John S. and Mary Jones, Washington County, Texas to Bird S.
Jones.
Tells after affect of the war, gives family news,
etc.
Letter
1
Outside:
Agreement
Betweeb Thos. I.
Smith and H. L. Gray
Thomas I. Smith
and
Henry L. Gray Covenant and
agree each with the other to establish and Keep up a house of entertainment in
the town of Brownsville, County of Haywood (Tennessee) on the following
conditions, Viz, the said Smith and Gray will put or build on No. 19 and 35 such
buildings as shall be suitable at the present time for such an establishment and
will each bear and pay an equal part for the building and improving of said lots
and all things necessary for the maintaining and Keeping a good and respectable
house of public entertainment in said town of Brownsville. In testimory whereof
we have hereunto set our hands and seals this 23rd March
1825.
Thos. I. Smith
H. L. Gray
========================================================================
Letter
2
Outside:
Scott?(Smith?) A.T.
25
Apr 17th
Mesr.(?) Guy or Thomas I. Smith
Durhamville
Tipton County
Tennessee
_________________________________________________________________________________
Other outside:
Dr. E. D. Tienner(?)
Upside down:
Tipton County
_________________________________________________________________________________
Pope county
A.T.
April 15th 1832
Dear Guy I once more take my pen to rite you. I
think it the third time I have rote you and Tom and has never recieved a word
from any of my connections except Bird. The cause is unnown (unknown) to me
without (unless) you think your selves above me. Stokes (Jordan Strokes, his
brother-in-law) has rote to Bill Parks (husband of
Jordan Stokes’ daughter Hannah) 2 or 3 times and never mentioned me till the
last time he rote and the last line of his leter (letter) mearly (merely) said
give his respects to me after naming every person else hear (here) of his
acquaintance first then mentioning me for which I dont thank him for
because
if I cant be first
with the except of his daughter (Hannah Stokes Parks and niece of the writer) I wood (would) thank him to forget me.
I rote you and Thomas to find out where you had got to. I directed my leters
(letters) to Randolph and have since understood by Bird that you had moved to
Hogshead old place where you will all be sure to
dye (die?). Tom rote me last spring he wood (would) be hear (here) this fall
past but has failed and he wood (would) for Sam Hays and Hilary Herring
(?) telling me that he is in new business and
I now (know) Guy you will come. If you will come you will never rue the trip
for I will show you the best country you ever saw and the verry country you
and Thomas must come to for if you will come and get a start of stalk you will
never work a day and the like of health I have never seen since I left White
county and this is as good as that and it is astonishing that men of sense will
live in that dammed hole that you and Thomas does. I am sorry to think that
you will be so much oversited (oversighted?)
in you oppinion (opinion). Give my most dearest love to Sister Polly (their
sister Polly Smith Hogshead) and Rhoda (their sister Rhoda Smith Pullen?)
and children and tell them that may God help them forever. We had a daughter
born on the 4th of March. My family and John’s (their brother John Ingles Smith)
is all well. My children is the best look(ing) children you ever saw. Look like
the blood will burst out of the faces and tell Polly that my little Rhoda is the liveliest child in one thousand
miles of this place. Bird is the best gram (grand?) child in the Territory and
is ruining for the want of schooling and I have no chance to give it to him.
We have plenty schools but I cant git him to
——(?) without I had money.
I have plenty of property but I have nary money and in consequence of that I
cant school him. Give my love to all of my connections there and reserve for
you self my best love and respect.
A.T. Smith
Direct you leter
(letter) to Spodra(?) Bluff Pope
county and rite quick
and come quick.
A.T.
========================================================================Letter
3
Outside:
Henry Jones
April
Paid
To
Mr. Bird S. Jones
Poplar Corner
Madison County
Tennessee
_________________________________________________________________________________
New Orleans April 15th 1833
My Dear
Friend–
This makes the third time I have written to you on the subject of Cypress
timber and Capt. John D. Orr has also written
to you in reply to your inquries of the 7th of Oct 1832, but neither of us have
received an answer from you.
Mr. Reynis the owner of the
saw mill three or four miles below this City called on me to day and requested
me most particularly to write to you immediately & tell you that he will
employ you by the year and give you $50 per month to remain there & purchase
timber and $25 for every good raft of Cypress timber that you may have delivered
him at this place. He will moreover furnish you with funds to purchase timber
when he finds by your conduct that confidence can be placed in you as an upright
& industrious man.
I should suppose that you & William might between you attend to this
offer and make money by it. Mr. Reynis is so well please with Capt. John D.
Orr’s conduct & talents as I had some hand in getting him in his employment
he has great faith in my judgement of honest men.
Give brother William and all his family my best love & respects. I
hope you may make money by this proposition of Mr. Reynas (sic). your answer to
it is required immediately. Yours most respectfully
Henry Jones
========================================================================
Letter
4
Outside:
Durhamville Ten.
June
17
T.I. Smith
_________________________________________________________________________________
Cole Creek
7th June 1835
Dear Bird
I arived (arrived) home on third day last
after a hard and laborious trip. On my return I met with John C. McLemore
at
Memphis. He has imployed (employed) me to gow (go) on the head waters of Red
River to examin (examine) land for him. He told me to look out for a
confidential friend to gow (go) with me. He will find a ——(?) and out fit pay
all expences ———(?) 25 dollars per month. He is to give me 60 dollar and do
proportion of the land. If you can gow (go) you shal (shall) share a part of my
land profits. That country is in high respects than any other at this time.
McLemore wished as little said about it as posible (possible). He will also
furnish me with money to buy settlements on vacant land. If you gow (go) and we
should like we would have (?) a home (?) to gow (go) to. I am meeting (?) him on
the 3rd or 4th of July at Memphis to receive (?) my outfit. I expect to start
the last of July if you have an opertunity (opportunity) by private conveyance
write to me. If not write me at Memphis by the 3rd of July. Let Bird Smith know
that McLemore will call on him in September and they will come on to Red River
on their way to Texas. All is well. My love to Patsey and the cubs.
Yours affectionately
Thos. I. Smith
========================================================================
Letter
5
Outside:
Mr. Bird S. Jones
Poplar
corners
Madison county
Tennessee (?)
(Also written:
T.I. Smith)
_________________________________________________________________________________
Cole Creek
14th July 1835
Dear Bird I have just returned
Memphis where I parted with McLemore. he is unable to start me as soon as he
would wish for the want of funds. he has gone on to Pontatock where he thinks he
will get what he wants. if he is disappointed then he will (be) compelled to gow
to Nashville. he is anzious for us to be off but cannot gow with less than two
or three Thousand Dolla(s). what lots he sold amounts to 18030 dollars on a
credit. You will (hole in letter) find inclosed (sic) a letter to Genl Bradford
which I wish you
to deliver as you (fold in letter) and is he pays you the money I wish you to
pay Joseph Cock the amount he is bound for on my account
for a proven account Jas. Clark left a gainst me
$15.50 and cost. pay your father
and after retaining any you need if there is any left (fold in letter) you will
have to apply to McIvers to get the time interest is comeing from. if Bradford cannot tell Judgement was
got in 1826 for $83 and some cts.
Yours affectionately
Thos. I. Smith
========================================================================
Letter
6
Outside:
H. Crutchson
Texas
Mr. Bird Jones
Cherryville
Tennessee
_________________________________________________________________________________
Dear Sir
Red River County
Texas 15 Nov
1838
I have seen your
letter to William Crutcher in which you request him to give you such
information of this County as he may possess. William having been called out to
defind (defend) our Frontier against some Indians that are Emboding (embodying) and occasionlly
(occasionally) stealing & Killing where they can Slyly do so. he requested
me to Answer your letter. as to the
Lands in Texas there is the finest Bodies of Good farming Land that I ever have
seen. particularly the Soil is well
Adapted to the Growth of Cotton.
you can have Cotton Rows from One to
three miles Long and in some parts particularly in the Prairies you can have
them ten miles Long. it would be
quite common to get from 500 to 100 Acres in a field if necessary. lying as well as you could desire the
County in General is not level yet this is gradually undulating and is
Sufficiently Broken to carry off the water. in some parts it is the best
mountains. there is a proportion of
the County that have clear runing (sic) Branches at sll Seasons of the year
Supported by never fading springs that Boil up through white sand and is as
clear as Crystal. Since the Land
office was opened I have seen Certificates sold as low as ten cents per
acre. indeed the Common price has
been twenty five Cents. I have been
Employed in the Office by the Clerk for several months last spring and while
there I purchased a third of a League for $300–and paid most of it in
property. You can get Land here On
the best terms and in some Cases put in property such as Homes, Waggons
etc. I arrived in this County in
September 1837. Just time Enough to
Entitle me to 1280 Acres of Land for my headright. Nancy Hale 1280
Acres–McWhorter 1280–Wm. H. Moore
1280. Wm. Crutcher was here at the Declaration of
Independance and he has one third of a League. I have given you the out lines of some
of the good properties here. I will
now turn over and State some of the difficulties. in the first place there are fragments
of tribes of Indians on our Frontiers that deters persons from Settling and our
Congress stoped (stopped) the Donation law which has prevented thousands from
coming. Aliens cannot hold Land
here. Government Recieves nothing
for fees on their Land but Gold
and Silver or
Texas money. When I mentioned
having claims ——(?) recollect Government have three fees which will amount to
Something like $150 on a League and so in proportion for a less quantity. as to health Keep off the Main River and
I have no doubt in saying it is healtier then the District (Western District of
Tennessee). my children have been
healthier here than they have been for ten years. all but Wm. and he has had so many hard
spells of sickness that I fear he never will be stout. again my health is unusually Good. Our Congress is now in Session. it is believed they will pass a Donation
Law which if they do and our Country is delivered from the Encroachment of
Indians etc (?) we shall have more agreeable times. there is nothing necessary here but a
Dince (dense) population of Good Farmers to make it one of the most desirable
places known. it is the only
retreat left for weathly farmers to work their hands to advantage. mean time poor people that have acquired
fine Bodies of Land will Sell their Lands for something Else that they may
want. I would advise you to come
and see this County before you think of moving. I have given you as candid (?) account
of things as I can. I acted as
Assessor in this County which is about 150 miles in length in the months of July
August and September. my living
naturally called me through every part of it and I can assure you I never ha(ve)
see(n) such a prospect for Land and Range of Every Kind. I am Still on the Stage of action can go
about and do business according to my chance. I have done well here. I have Saved 2756 Acres of Land–have
made about $500, in Cash which has enabled me to move my children out and
Support my widow Daughter Since we came and not withstanding corn has been 75
cents & a Dollar per
Bushel. Beef four Dollars & ct
(?). Pork from 8.1.10 dollars as yet we have not Suffered from
Something to Eat one hour. Give my respects to all the friends and your Father
& family.
Yours with respect
Thomas Crutcher*
*A Thomas
Crutcher was involved in a land transaction in White Co., Tennessee in 1816
which was witnessed by John (Ingles?) Smith among others.
========================================================================Letter
7
Outside:
Ripley Tn
August 27
Bird S. or Guy S. Jones
Cherryville
Haywood County
Tenn
_________________________________________________________________________________
Outside (on
other side of folded sheet)
Uncle thomas
Smith im thesces (?) at home. Martha Jones at hom on the
eleventh of July. Peine (?) S. Arnold Mary Mander (?) Martha Hening (?)
Abram S.(?) William Jones wish William(?) Bob it(?) S. Jones B R (writing very
poor and childlike.)
_________________________________________________________________________________
Cole Creek August 26th
1839
Dear boyes
(boys)
I returned from Texas on Thursday last. I lef(t) John well and well pleased with
Texas. He owns one section of land
and got 75 dollars for joining a volunteer company for three months and his
Capt. stationed him at my house. he
was not one day from home only when we would gow a buffalow hunting. I will say nothing to you a bout Texas
till I see you. come and see me as
horse and self is both broke down.
sent word to distiller Arnold I want to see hom. My respects to
All.
Yours affectionately,
Thos. I. Smith
========================================================================
Letter
8:
Outside: Mr.
Bird S. Jones
Cherryville Post Office
Haywood,
Ten.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Washington
Co. Nov.
28th–1841
Mr. B. S.
Jones.
Dear Brother although it has been some
time since I recieved (sic) a letter from you and although I answered the only
one that I have recieved (sic) from you soon after the reception of it yet
fearing you may not have received it and as I have an opportunity of sending a
letter by a Gentleman going to the States I avail my self of the pleasing task
of once more communicating with you by letter in complyance (sic) with your
request. it affords me much
pleasure to converse with you by letter as we are deprived of the pleasure of
going so personally. I should be
very glad to see you and Sister Patsy but circumstances will not admit of it at
present. we must therefore content
ourselves with a social intercourse by letter. what a source of pleasure it is to be
able to hold converse with each other in this way though separated by so great a
distance. it afforded me much
pleasure my Dear Brother to hear from you.
the letter which I reieved (sic) was dated Nov. 14th 1840. I am much obliged to you for your advice
and I hope that my future conduct will prove to you the estimate I place uppon
(sic) it.
I was truly sorry to hear of the death of our poor Brother Henry (Henry
Jones?) but we must submit to the dispensations
of providence and endeavour (sic) to profit by them. I was also sorry to hear of Father
looseing (sic) the sight of one of his eyes. I am much obliged to you for the
information about our connexions (sic) generally. I presume you have probably heard of the
untimely death of Uncle Abram Smith (Abraham Trigg Smith) who was killed
about three months ago on an Indian expedition while in the act of charging on
some Indians who were conceled (sic) amongst some rocks about two hundred miles
from home. Aunt Alcy (Elsie/Alcy W. Parks Smith) took it very
hard. She is now living with Uncle Thomas Smith. She is well. Sister Rhody Ann*
is going to school. She professed religion at a camp meeting about a year ago
and joined the Methodist Church. the conversion were all usually well about a
month ago. I have not heard from them since. I presume you have heard that Ann Stokes
(youngest daughter of Jordan and Ann H. Smith Stokes) is married. She married Wm. Wilkinson
from Obion Co.,
Tennessee. they live near Uncle
Thomas Smith. Ross How (William Ross
Howe?) lives there
two (sic). he has a fine Son about
three months old. Guy
Stokes (son of Jordan and Ann H. Smith Stokes)
is living on the Frontier. he has
no stationary home. he was with
Uncle Abram when he was killed. I
made a verry (sic) good crop this year.
I have lately moved on a piece of Land of my own near my Mother in Law
(Lucy Thomson Kerr) which I have commenced improving. I have verry (sic) good Land and iff
(sic) I have good luck I have no fear of making a good Living for we certainly
have one of the finest cotton countries in the world. my Brother in Law Wm. P.
Kerr who lives near me made verry (sic) fair
Cotton this year (not with standing the drouth (sic) which we had) by just planting betwen (sic) the corn
in laying by the crop and never even thined (sic) it. Crops are a good all (?) shortened by
the drouth (sic) but I think there will be corn enough for the consumption of the country
besides a good deal (?) of
cotton of the finest quality. it has been one of the finest falls for
Saveng (?) Cotton I have ever seen.
we have a fine daughter now. Seven months old. we call her Amanda
Jane. I wish you to inform me if you have heard
from Uncle Henry Jones. how he is doing and of our
connexions (sic) generally. I wish
you to come to this country and look at it and I have no doubt you will like it
well enough to move to it. tell
Jack Arnold that Helen
Rebecca is well and growing finely.
I have no verry (sic) important news. our congress is now in session but it
has not passed any acts of importance as yet that I have heard of. I have been informed that they were
waiting for the arrival of General Sam Houston who is ReElected President of the
Republic and will be Inaugurated into ofice (sic) on the first Monday in
December. the People generally are
looking forward to his administration for better times which are at present in a
depressed condition. the many man Ret (?) particularly Gen. Burleston
(Burleson) is our vice President. the aspect of our affairs with the
Mexican Gov. is yet dubious. it is
reported that San Ana (Santa Anna) is at the head of affairs and has
promised to recognize our Independence which will make this one of the finest
countries in the world for once we get a trade opened with that country we will
have plenty of specie. with the
exception of an occasional visit to the Frontiers by small parties of Indians on
Stealing excursions we have genial peace and quiet. I must come to an end by requesting you
to write to me often. Mary requests
me to give her love to you and all our relations. Remember me to Father Brother
Guy Brother Abram and all our dear
relations and accept for yourself
and Sister Patsey renewed assurances of my warmest esteem and
Affection. I Remain your
Affectionate Broter (sic) untill (sic) death.
John S. Jones
P.S. You will
please write to me soon and direct your letters thus:
Mr. J. S. Jones
Washington Co: Texas
Gay Hill Post Office
P S Dear Brother
I resume the pleasing task again to inform you that Brother Guy (Guy
Jones?) just arrived
at my house before I had an opportunity of sending this letter and requests me
to inform you that he has arrived safe and in good health. he was twenty three days on the road
besides a few days that layed (sic) by on the road. he wishes me to say that he will write
to you in a few days. Yours
John S. Jones
*Rhody
Ann may be the author’s sister; there was also a Rhoda, daughter of
Abram and Alcy Smith and a Rhoda, daughter of Jordan and Ann (Smith)
Stokes
========================================================================
Letter
9
Outside:
Mr. Bird S. Jones
Cherryville
Haywood
County
Tennessee
(other writing
on outside of sheet added later: “Col. T. I. Smith”)
_________________________________________________________________________________
Chambers Creek
Robertson County
28th
Nov 1845
Dear
Bird
I have not wrote you
for a long time believing from
every information that you would of been here long before this. I have dispared of your coming . John (John Smith Jones?) is now with me. he sayes you will come. he is hear for the purpose of selecting
a place to move to which he had done a bout six miles from me. Though you have let the golden hour pass
I think you had better come to Texas.
our Buffalow has to give way to the overflowing
imigration that is pooring in since anexation is certain. when I first setted this place two years
a go the nearest settler was seventy miles below. now there (?) is a strong settlement for
thirty miles a bove and one of the most public roads in Texas runs by me. we have weekly mail and a post office at
my house. the people is generally
poor but indepentent (sic). plenty
to live on out of debt neither fears man or devil. John sayes you must come to this
place. you can have any land I
have, cross red (?) River as high up as you will can inquire for Dallas on
Trinity. I live thirty five miles
south of Dallas. write me as soon
as you receive this. I am cooking
dayly (daily) for Jack Arnold. Burel Hunter is in forty miles of me and is doing
well. direct your letters to the a
bove address. all is well at this
time. Louisa (Thomas’ second wife) joins in love to Patsey and the
children.
Yours affectionately
Thos. I.
Smith
*Mary Stokes,
eldest child of Jordan and Ann H. (Smith) Stokes married an
Arnold.
========================================================================
Letter
10
Outside: Mr. Bird S. Jones
Cherry ville
PO.
Haywood CO
Tennessee
_________________________________________________________________________________
Washington Co., Texas. (sic) July 1st,
1847
Mr. Bird S.
Jones
My Beloved
Brother.
I received your kind letter dated the 2d of May. for which I return you
my thanks. I was very anxious to hear from you. it is my painful duty to announce to you
the death of Thomas Webb* which took place
on the 11th of June. he lived and
died a christian. he praised the Lord with his latest breath. was perfectly in his sences. he has left
a bright testimony to the triumphs of Redeeming Grace and dying Love. O I wish
you could have witnessed the tranquility (sic) of his mind. altho he suffered great pain owing to
inflamation (sic) of the lungs and spleen.
he was sick only a few days. but his mind was calmn (calm) and
happy. he spoke of death with the
utmost composure and was anxious to depart and enter into that rest that remans
for the people of God. a few
minutes before he died he was asked if he felt happy to raise his hand. he immediately held up both his hands
for some time. he made his will and
left all he had to his two children. he left me his execution and their guardian
and requested that I should raise them. I have wrote several letters to
you. and mentioned the affliction
of my wife (Mary Ann). but I suppose you have not received
them. I will state to you the cause
of her being a cipple (cripple). it
was the fifth day after our youngest child was born. that she was taken with a severe atack
(attack) of phlegmasha (phlegmatic) doloris or milk leg. So termed by
the doctors. it settled in her left
leg and caused a contraction of the sinews. and has become a confirmed cripple for
life I think. she has to walk on
crutches and can only get one foot to the ground. We have a helpless family but with the
blessing of God we are getting a long very well. I have a splendid crop of corn and
cotton. this has been a fine season
for growing. there is as good
prospect for an abundance as I ever saw.
my cotton is the best I ever saw.
the rows are six feet apart and it looks it is from six to eight feet
high. I have ten acres of it. John McClellan (son of William B. and
Rhoda Smith McClellan, and writer’s first cousin) has just been
down on a visit from the Trinity where he lives near Uncle Tom Smith’s. he states that Uncle Thom (Thomas Ingles
Smith) has just returned from an expedition to
mexico. he is Major of all the Ranging
companies. he and all the our
connections are well. he owns a
world of Land. Rhody Smith aunt Elsey’s
daughter (Rhoda Smith, daughter of Abram and Alcy Smith) is married to a man by
the name of patrick. (Callaway Patrick). the(y) are all doing well. Charles Severe (?) is
dead. he died on the Rio
grande. Bird Pullen (son of Josiah
and Rhoda Smith Pullen and writer’s first cousin) lives in the lower part of
this county. I heard from him about a month agoe. he joined a company and was going west.
Guy Stokes (son of Jordan
and Ann Stokes) is in this county and is horse racing for a living. he and his partners has won bewetwen (between) 3 and 4
thousand dollars this summer. my
hopes are almost blasted about your coming to Texas. but I am convinced if you come to see
us, you will like this country. When Guy came here it was an unfavorable time as
it was in the winter and he did not see much of the country. I know your country and this both and do
sincerely think this much superior to that. if you could see this country I would be
good for you. I am sorry to hear of sister patsy’s bad health. Uncle McClellans
(William B. McClellan and family) are well. he is doing well and has a fine
crop. he has a mill and doing very
well. he has a good stock of cattle
and is in better circumstances now than I ever saw him. he says he intends writing to
you.
Bob Parks
(Robert Parks,
brother of Alcy Parks Smith?) is dead and his family have gone back to arcansaw
(Arkansas). I am glad to hear that
you have bought gabe. If you were
here you could make more in one year than you can there in 3. one of my neighbors paid for a negro
fellow with cotton in one year. my
Mother in laws family are well. her
youngest daughter Amanda Kerr was Married a few days agoe to the Rev.
H. L. Thrall** of the Texas conference. Alfred B. F.
Kerr is now a traveling preacher. please give our love to Sister
patsy. and my step mothers family
and all inquiring friends. I want
you to write as soon as you receive this and I will gladly pay the postage on
your letters. I remane your most affectionate Brother.
J.
S. Jones
PS Mary sends
her love to you all. please excuse
bad writing.
*Husband of Rhoda Ann Smith Jones, probably sister
of John S. Jones
**H. L. Thrall
married Susan McClellan and Abram McCain as well as Mattie A. McClellan and
Charles H. Dunn.
========================================================================
Letter
11
Outside: (Postal
mark: Ripley, Mi Sep 21)
Bird S. Jones
Cherryville
Haywood
County,
Tenn.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Ripley Miss* 21st Septr.
1847
Dear
Bird
Your letter of the 10th of august came safe to hand and owing to my eye
sight being so bad I have put off righting to you until now. you can readily judge of my fix. you can see I right bad & cannot
keep the lines. I do all by guess
work. your letter gives us much
information & great satisfaction.
you must right me often. I
saw Genl. Bradford who was in the Mexican war. he returned home about the 4th of
July & said he saw Tom at a place
called Carmmargo (Camargo, Mexico) & that he commanded a Battallion of Texas
dragoons. he thought his time there
was not quite expired. I was glad
to learn from your letter that he had got home safe. he has quit righting to me. I have rote him three letters and
received no answer to either which I think very hard. he will not right me as we
are the only two brothers left out of six for what cause he does not right I am
unappraised. Bird I feel lonesome
& dejected at this time. Margarette (the writer’s daughter)
is
married & left us. she married
a Mr. Griffin of this county. the
other children at school in this place & we have no one with us at home but
our two selves which ——(?) enough I can assure you. Margaine (Margaret, his
daughter?) was to see us in august.
she made but a short stay. I
got a letter from them on satyrday (Saturday) informing me of their safe arrival
at home and the particulars of a great many things that I was or felt some
interest in. he says he met with
Mr. Bard from Acola who stayed at his house all
night and give him full history of the times on the river. he says your man Dickison never pretended to doe any thing towards
saving my old place. let the time
——(?) that would bar the private
——(?) right to enter. Mr.
Bill Beason went on ——(?) with a view that he could
then hold it under the new presumption law. Col Fletcher pushed off to Helena fully
elated that he would enter it & have it safe & snug to him self but low
& behold when he made his application at the office door there had just left
one certain William Strong who I know you
have heard spoken of by the common name he have was old Bill Strong. he had just entered my old place &
Buford’s which was forfeited also & all the county assessed. I want you to tell your friend Dickison
that he could of made more by selling to me. I have a prospect of selling my
place here & probably will for $2600 for a half section. if so it is unknown where I may locate
again. Mr. Eastwood rights me that
some scamp has lately passed through there country while he was out here
claiming him self to be my Brother bearing the name of John I. Smith going to
marry my acquaintances for half (?).
this is not the first rascall that has attempted to impose in that
way. right me often & give me
the news generally. I expect friend
Alford (Alfred?) has by this time met with his old associate Blount Corwell
(?). he left here for Tennessee or
Arkansas. Eastwood met him near the
widow Lias (?) packing his child.
alls well here. crops are
fine. tell old Whig Whitaker not to
take on so. his nominee Mr. Harris
could not court (?) Col Embry’s (?) oldest
daughter. Mrs.
Callicuter is dead. She died in Alabama & was brought to
his house to be buried. give my
love to your family and believe me to be as usual Your ever aft
uncle
B B Smith
PS right where
Bill Patton is
*Ripley is in
Tippah County, Mississippi on the Tennessee border; it is almost due south of
Brownsville, county seat of Haywood County, Tennessee.
========================================================================
Letter
12
Outside: (Postal
stamp: Ripley Mi* May 2)
(Postal stamp: 5)
Mr. Bird S. Jones
Cherryville
Haywood County
Tennessee
_________________________________________________________________________________
Ripley Miss. 2d of May
1848
Dear
Bird
I again sit down to right you the second time since your last letter to
me but alas It is sorrowful tidings I have to impart to you. grieved and distressed I am for the loss
of my Brothers & Sisters that seems allmost (sic) constantly to appear leave
me in a much depressed state of mind.
It was but a short time since I relieved a letter from poor
Thomas. his letter was dated at Austin the
10th of March last. the first I had
from him in 4 years. he rote to me
in such a lively strain that he was in perfect good health & his wife had a
fine Boy and called Its name Tom. but oh Bird what was my distress when It
was pointed out to me by Genl. Bradford last week here
at court an extract from the Houston Telegraph published in the Memphis Eagle
where It says died in austin on the 30th of
March last Thomas I. Smith a revolutionary soldier of Texas and frontier
citizen. that is all It says. the circumstances of his righting to me
from there on the 10th seems to me to be conclusive evidence of the facts. he said in his letter that he was
resolved to come & see me this summer as he had dispared (despaired) of my
ever coming to Texas. poor fellow
he was called off when a broad. he
was denighed (denied) the satisfaction of dying at home. all you know of the mail part of my
family but my self I have nothing more of great interest to right you. I got a letter from Susy a short time
since. alls well. I also got one from Uncle Coutcher. he speaks of several deaths in his
family. Moors & his wife and
some children. William had just
left for Texas the day before he rote me which was a bout the 10th of last
month. he the old man resides in
Carrolton in this state and is now in his 79th year and is quite active. he is doing business for Wm
Saunders. right me soon again
(?). give me all the news. let me hear all the river news &
else where. let Jack Arnold
(husband? of
Mary Stokes, daughter of Jordan and Ann) know in relation to poor Tom. I rote you in my last on several
particulars & ——(?) your French Grays note for a $11.00. he bound him self
to me in honor to pay It. tell him
I am kind verry (?) kindy (?) in deed.
nothing has occured (sic) with us of any importance since my last. only the country seems to be in a state
of improvement. the Telegraph wire
runs right by my door from Memphia to tuscumbia. the news can be
conveyed in a few minutes from one point to the other. Edwin had returned from the east and is
now operating in this place with a beautiful stock of goods though there is
large quantity of goods brt (brought?) to this market & the late revolution
in France & throughout all Europe seems to put a check to business. Margarett (writer’s daughter) was to see
us last week. She lives about 170
miles from here. she was well. William is sick to day. the rest is all well and Join me in
sending there lest love to you and the family while I remain as usual your ever
aft. uncle.
B B Smith
*Ripley is in
Tippah County, Mississippi on the Tennessee border; it is almost due south of
Brownsville, county seat of Haywood County, Tennessee.
========================================================================
Letter
13
Outside:
Bird S. Jones
Haywood
County
Tenn.
Written on
opposite outside:
I was in Ripley
this morning and B. B. Smith recd a Letter from Wm. McClelland of Texas stating
that Thomas I. Smith was dead. He died at Houston (Texas) June 14th 1848.
Jesse Crutrey (?)
_________________________________________________________________________________
Ripley Miss. 12th of June
1848
Dear
Bird
Your letter of the 19th of May came directly to hand and I am glad to
find you yet prompt and punctual in righting to me which is the greatest
consolation. I hear/ have l—(?)
James Embry leaves for Haywood tomorrow &
promises to be the bearer of this to you all though I have nothing of a churning
or consoling nature to impart to you.
my mind is yet in great trouble and confusion you say I must give you my notions from
time to time this is one of the
times that I am entirely at a loss what to write you on that subject Francis
Says if I will stay here a while till her children can get schooled she is
willing then to go any where I will say I want to go there is but one tavern in
this place kept by C. Miller & he is now
trying to swap his houses & lots to me for my farm and the lots I own here
but I am opposed to it yet Edwin
and Mr. Spight is urging the trade I have no Idea that I will make it at
the present time. my old place is
rented to a Doctor Briscoe. It is in a
high state of cultivation has a
beautiful grown crop on It 100
acres in corn 90 acres in cotton 10 do (ditto) in
oats and a great deal
of fornight (?) apples peaches plumbs (plums) and grapes Crops are generally likely here &
bids fare (fair) to be a bundant
our friends here are all well and generally doing well Edwin has a very neat stock of goods
well selected by him self in Philadelphia and is selling a h—(?) if he ever gets
pay times is hard here on act
(account) of the fall in cotton for there is yet at least 1000 Bales yet in
Tippah Spight has over 100 bales
yet unsold Margaret (writer’s
daughter) and her husband Mr. Griffin left here on satyrday last she is well and in fine health my other children is all at school we got a letter from Wm Kiveate (?) on
satyrday stating that old Mr. Wilder was dead he made a will and from what we can
learn he made a partial one I met
with an old friend of mine a wk (week) a go Genl. William Taylor on his way to Texas he resides a bout 65 or 70 miles from
Chambers Creek I rote to Wm. L.
Mitchel for information and all the particulars
concerning poor Tom (Thomas Ingles Smith) the Genl. promises me to give my
letter a speedy convey once and I shall expect to here all about It in a short
time if you have heard any
thing more since you rote me last doe not fail & hasten to communicate It to
me right me all the knews (news) as
It interest me you mention several
deaths but no marriages one of the
young Hopsons on Thursday night last stole one of old Gabe Mays daughters and ran away with her you say you have got there two smart men
Bill Bowin (Bowen?) & Alfred Brigance for
neighbors if you have any thing
they can steal you may lookout
right me how that man came out with Cherry as I am told by James Embry
the (man?) got in and brought (bought?) him back I would like to know what Ned Reed
wanted to see
Pattons old book for Mr.
Patton had no knowledge
of the transaction It was entirely
a private matter with me and Mr. Reed
It was my own private money (?) I loaned him and not the money of A.
Patton at all It is not on his
books nor never will be for he has nor never had any knowledge of the afair
(sic) in regard to them other notes
hold on to them and if ever Mr. Preacher Mahon comes in your bounds take a bale (bail)
warrant for him get a Judgment
& levy on his hair (?) if Gray
has
any honor in the world he will pay me
I have no more to right at present
James can tell you all the particulars Right me often and where to send my
letters as yours is generally dated at Cherryville & Postmarked at Jackson
if you see any of Rufus Worthams people tell them he is well & thinks hard
of them for not writing to him give
my respect to Washington Wortham and Jess Wilson and all the inquiring family
while I remain you ever aft (affectionate) uncle
B B Smith
P S I head that Wm Patton you deranged is It so
========================================================================
Letter
14
Outside:
Mr. Bird S. Jones
Haywood County
Tennessee
Cherryville P.O.
(Written on
side: Montville, Aug, Texas, John Jones)
(Written on
other outside: John Jones 1848)
_________________________________________________________________________________
Washington Co., Aug 5th, 1848
Mr. Bird S.
Jones.
My Dear
Brother
Your affectionate letter of the 31st of May came safe to hand we were
glad to hear that your family were well through the kindness of our Heavenly
Father. We are in the enjoyment of that greatest of earthly blessings, health,
but as you fear Uncle Thomas Smith is dead. He died on the 30th of March
last at Austin with winter fever. Also cousin Jane Mitchel (Rhoda Jane
Stokes Howe Mitchell, daughter of Jordan and Ann H. Smith Stokes) died on the
14th of June. She was sick only four days. Truly we have daily admonition to be
always ready. For we know not how soon we may be snatched from time to Eternity.
I received a letter from Bird Pullen (son of Josiah
and Rhoda Smith Pullen) a few days ago which informed me of the death of his
brother Thomas. Bird is living
near Houston. But he thinks he doing poor business and intends leaving and going
up the country. His health is no good. I was informed that Billy Mitchel
was
Uncle Tom’s administrator and wrote him concerning that land of yours. But he
wrote me that he is not the administrator that it was another Mitchel. I went
twice to see Uncle Tom about that land of yours but he said he wished you to
come and chose it yourself as he intended to give you some land also. I received
a letter from Kinchen Webb which informed me that he had writen
(written) to Alden (?) Hicks concerning that part of the estate that
was comeing (coming) to Webb. He states the money is ready and will pay it at
any time when applied to by propper (proper) authority. The amount that is
comeing (coming) is so small that I think it is not worth while to go after it
until I can get his part from his mother’s estate. I have exchanged my land that
I traded for and have got my old place back again tho you may think strange of
it. I had my reasons. First I was fearful of the title and I found the prairie
did not suit me as well as the other on many accounts. It seems strange that I
can not get a letter from Brother Guy (Guy Jones). I wish you would give me all the
information you can respecting him and his. I would like to know how many
children he has and what are there (their) names and how he is doing. When you
write to him let him know what I have writen (written) to you. It would be a
great pleasure to me to embrace you both once more in this world but if we never
meet in this world I will once more entreat you to meet me in Heaven when we
shall meet to part no more and be with all those who have been redeemed and be
forever blest. Uncle McClellan family are well and doing very well.
Susan was married a
few days agoe (ago) to Mr. McCane (Abram McCain) of this county. Mc he has three children
married. We have good crops generally in this part of the country. My crop is
short on the account of its being new prairies. You know all the political news
that relates to our country I presume. I intended to write to Mr. Mitchel to day
concerning that land of yours and Mr. Webbs. Times are pretty fair here now and
as we are going to have a Pennitentiary (penitentiary) I think they will be
better. The bones of the 16 men that were decimated in Mexico have been brought
to LaGrange (Fayette County, Texas) the adjoining county to us and they are to
be buried on the 15th of this month and they are going to erect a monument over
them. One of them was my cousin, J. M. Thomson (Jasper Newton McDonald Thomson,
son of Alexander “Sandy” and Elizabeth Maury “Betsy” Dowsing
Thomson). I received a
letter from Kinchin Webb some time agoe (ago) in which he stated that there
would be but little comeing (coming) to these children of Wells (Webbs?) from
his mother’s estate but I think differently from what Webb told me in his life
time and when the issue comes I wish you to attend to it and see that justice is
done. We must come to close. Please to give our love to Zilpha’s family. And
accept the same for your self and Sister Patsy and all the children and my
friends generally and believe me my dear Brother I am yours
affectionately.
J.S. Jones
please excuse this
bad writing
P.S. I heard
from Aunt Laura Smith short time agoe (ago). She had a son
called Thomas. She is keeping house with William Smith and one of her Brothers. The connexion
(connection) were well generally. Please write to me as soon as you get this and
let me know about Uncle Henry Jones. I have not
heard from him since I left Ten (Tennessee). Let me know where to write to
Brother Guy for I want to
hear from him.
J.S.J.
========================================================================
Letter
15
Outside:
Mr. Bird S. Jones
Cherryville.
Haywood Co.
Tenness.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Washington Co. Texas, May 25th 1857
My Very Dear
Brother
I received (sic) your kind favor of the 18th April. for which I return you thanks. this leaves us all in good health. except my self I have not been well for
over a year. I was taken with cold
and chill. and it has terminated in
a spinal and Liver affection. I have been taking medicine but am
no better yet. we have had the most
unusual weather this spring that we have ever had since we have lived here. the corn has been planted 3 times
over. we have had to plant cotton 3
and 4 times. Some of us. the
prospect is yet very unpromising.
we have had no rain of consequence for twelve months. we have not heard any thing from our
relations on the trinity since I wrote last. the McClellans are doing about like they were when I
wrote before. they and the rest of
your friends have promised to write to you. Jef Willson was here a few days
agoe. I showed him your
letter. he has got a splended
(splendid) place about 9 miles from here on the Austin road and is doing very
well. Bird Pullen have moved to
the railroad Depot in Austin Co. about 35 miles from here. he is running four waggons at present
and is doing pretty well, if he will continue. I was there a few days agoe. he spoke of puting (sic) up a tavern
which I am affraid (sic) he will not make it profitable, as he tryed (sic) that
business once before. he is
considerably in debt. he is a kind
hearted fellow. I am sorry that he is in that fix, but he will not be otherwise
it seems. I heard from him the
other day. his family had the
measles. as for the Land give your self no uneasiness about it. my reason for
writing to you about it before was I thought that you wanted the Deed sent to
you to make some disposion (disposition?) of it. we can pay Taxes for Lands any where in
the state in the county in which we live.
as for the amount of trouble or expence (sic) I cheerfully do it. as I
consider you to me a Father as well a dearly beloved Brother. whenever Lands
come into market I would advise you to dispose of it as the timber is scarce in
that portion, and it is liable to be stolen. never the less whatever you want done
with it in the future, let me know and I will attend to it cherfully (sic). I saw a Gentleman from the State modern
Democrat convention at Waco on the Brazsos (sic). he saw Nat Ferry (Terry?) there. Nat was a delegate. there is a considerable stir between the
Antient (Ancient?) and moddern (modern) Democrats about a Bank in Texas. the modern Democrats have nominated the
Hon. Mr. Runnels for Governor. Gen. Sam Houston is a candidate for Governor. he is a Jacson (Jackson) & Jefferson
democrat, and has always been, and so am I. we shall see nex (next) August how the
Governors Election will work. I am opposed to the Banking System, and so you see
I am a Jackson Democrat and nothing else.
our Rail road from Houston is graded 50 miles and the cars are running 35
miles of that, altho the prospect for crops is gloomy, our country is improving
rappidly (sic). I had forgot to
state that there is a branch road leading from the mane road to Brenham, our
county site (seat), and they are working on it, and also there is one which will
soon be finished from Houston to Galveston, and also one from New Orleans to
Berwicks bay, and so you see, you can come within 15 miles of my house, with the
exception of 6 hours Sail, on a rail road, no excuse now. I hope to hear from
Brother Guy (Guy Jones) soon as you have sent my letter to
him. I am sorry to hear of the
condition of our step mother, give our love to her and tell her to write to
me. Say to Arnold (Jack Arnold?)
that he promised to write to me but has failed to do so. I should like to hear from him
ocasionaly (occasionally). and am
glad to hear of his making money so fast their (there) as he is getting good
wages for that country. enclosed
you will find a communication from an old Texian in behalf of Gen. Houston. I feel sorry to hear Aunt Susan and
Amanda’s great misfortune in loosing their eyesight, as that is a great
affliction. I think as we are the
only two Brothers that correspond of the remaneing ones that are left we ought
to write often to each other. as I
can not hear from Brother Guy only through you please get all the information
from him respecting himself and family and let me heare from him that way. let me know his address and P.O. in your
next. and give me all the
particulars as far as you know of our connection whenever you write and let it
be often as it is a great pleasure to me to heare from you all. tell your children to write often
to. I never wanted to see you worse
than I now do. I have nothing more
of interest to communicate and herefore must close. please give our united love to your
family and also to all our connection there in your country, and write as soon
as your receive (sic) this. I remane your ever affectionate
Brother.
J. S. Jones
========================================================================
Letter
16:
Washington Co, Texas Feb 3d
1862
Mr. Bird S.
Jones
My very Dear Brother. After
waiting for a very long time for an answer to my last letter I was very glad to
hear from you through Arnold (Jack Arnold?). I received a letter from him on
yesterday, writen (sic) on the 5 of Jan, he said you were all well when he last
heard from you, and that he heard from you once or twice a week, and wished me
to write to you so he could hear from us.
I also recived (sic) a letter from him writen (sic) on the 27th of June
1861. he was at Union Cty, Camp
Brown, when he wrote. he seems very
well please with his situation.
this leaves us all tolenally (tolerably?) well at this time except Laura
(John’s daughter) she has been
quite sick but is recovering. our Daughter Amanda who was maried
(sic) (married) to Travis Burton was delivered of a son on the 8th of Jan
and was very ill. she came
very near dying. she had child bed
fever and milk leg, also and suffered exerciateing (execrating) paine (pain),
but by the most unremiting (sic) attensions (sic) of two physicians she is
slowly recovering. altho she can
not sit up yet, and needs constant attention. she has a fine sprightly child. very healthy and very forward he laughed before he was a week
old. my own health has been very
bad all the summer and fall and now I am very much afflicted with wrzings
(wrings). I have had one on my neck a very painfull
(sic) one, and it is not well and another one coming on the back of my
neck. if my health had permited
(sic) I have doubt but what I would have been in Ten, now helping to fight for
my native Land. it makes my blood
boil to think the abominable Yankies are invading and trampling on our rites
(sic) . We are expecting an attack
daly (sic) on Galveston Cty, but we defy them to land, as we have a large force
about 4 or 5 thousand brave men and well fortified. William Stokes (son of Jordan
and Ann Stokes) has a company in parson’s regent. there has been a rise of 12 hundred men
gone from this county to the scene of war.
our vote is betwen (sic)15 or 16 hundred and so you see we are waltzing
up to this music. John Stokes (son of Thomas B. Stokes, grandson of Jordan and
Ann (Smith) Stokes) was here a few weeks agoe. he had been in the army, and had the
sore eyes very bad and was furlowed to go home and lost one of his eyes, but he
is well and gone back to the army.
he is a fine robust looking fellow.
he weights the rise (?) of 2 hundred lbs. his mother and all of her
children have lost an eye apiece. Col Winkler (third husband
of Thomas Ingles Smith’s widowed second wife) is in Virginia with a company, and
his wife (Louisa R. Barlett Neil Smith Winkler) died after he
left home. our connection are well
as far as I know. I saw Jef
Willson yesterday. his family are well and requested me
when I wrote to you to give his love and best respects to you and family. all your acquaintances here are well as
far as I know. Mary
Pullen (widow of Bird Pullen) is still living in
round top and doing very well.
times are dull here. there
is no good to be had here and the ladies have gone to making homespun. there is but little cotton setting here.
I have sold mine at 8 1/2 cents. I
made the finest crop of corn and cotton both that I ever made. please write soon and let me know all
you know about Brother Guys family, and our connection generally. I would like
to know what pleasan (Pleasant?) Stanly (Stanley) political sentiments are. Uncle Billy McClellans family are all
well. he has quit merchandizeing
(sic) for the present, and had made a fortune. B. T. McClellan is dead and his family have moved back
here. we have had a remarkably warm
and dry winter here. please give
our love to all your family and say to Arnold I highly appreciate his kindness
in writing to me and would be glad to heare (sic) from him often and tell the
girls to write. our children have
writen (sic) but have not received (sic) a letter for a long time. I want to see you very much and if I can
I intend to go and see you again.
please write as soon as you get this. Your affectionate Brother and
Sister.
J. S. and Mary Jones