My Genealogy Hound

Aris R. Lunsford, though but recently a resident of Buffalo Island, has already attained a position among its leading farmers. He was born in Lauderdale County, Tenn., January 23, 1844, and is the fifth of a family of eight children, five of whom are still living. His father, William Lunsford, a native of North Carolina, was married in that State, and later moved to Tennessee. There his first wife died, and he married Marcie Norris, the mother of A. R. The father was a prominent farmer and trustee of the county for several years, and remained in Tennessee until his death, April 27, 1884, aged seventy-seven years. The mother is still living. Aris R. Lunsford was reared in Tennessee, receiving such education as the county schools of the time afforded. He enlisted in the Confederate army, in October, 1861, participating in several engagements, and saw much active service. He was corporal of his company, and was several times captured, paroled and exchanged, being last taken at Ripley, Tenn., where he was held until the close of the war. He then returned to his home, where he remained until 1886. January 15, 1863, he was united in marriage with Margaret Brimm, a native of Tennessee, and daughter of Thomas Brimm. Eight children have been the fruits of this union: William G., Sarah M. (wife of William Markham), James R., Sophronia (wife of N. S. Tucker), John S., Mary A., Jason H. and Maggie L. In 1886 Mr. Lunsford sold out in Tennessee and came to Arkansas, locating where he now lives. He has cleared seventy acres of land, and has a good residence, stables and orchard, all bearing evidence of thrift and success. In 1876 he was elected justice of the peace in Tennessee, and held that office until he removed to Arkansas, where he has been elected justice of the peace of Buffalo Township. He is president of the district and local Agricultural Wheel. Both he and wife are members of the Methodist Church.