My Genealogy Hound

J. G. Bryant, a leading merchant at Ridge, Craighead County, was born in Madison County, Ga., September 20, 1843, and is the son of Jason and Elizabeth (Berryman) Bryant, both natives of the same State. They came to Craighead County December 25, 1857, locating in Big Bay Bottom, where they remained until their deaths. The father died September 6, 1858, the mother December 22, 1868. They were the parents of three children, the two surviving being residents of this county: John G., the subject of this sketch, and Elizabeth, wife of J. T. Dudley. The father was a quiet, industrious man, and the mother a devoted Christian and member of the Missionary Baptist Church. John G. was reared on a farm in Big Bay Bottom, and has been a farmer all his life. In 1885 he bought of Burst & Stills a stock of goods, at Big Bay Siding, and carried on a mercantile business at that point until January 5, 1889, when he removed his stock of goods to Ridge. By industry and integrity he has established a good and successful business in general merchandise. He has two farms in Greenfield Township, one of eighty acres, thirty-three under cultivation, and the other of 160 acres, with seventy-six under cultivation. He was married November 29, 1868, to Mary H. McGown, daughter of Sam and Sarah (Tannehill) McGown, early settlers of this county. Mr. and Mrs. Bryant are the parents of eight children, three deceased: John D. and two infants. Those surviving are Sarah E., wife of J. R. Fuller; Nancy O., Charlie W. and Thomas A. Mrs. Bryant possesses many true womanly virtues, and is a consistent member of the Missionary Baptist Church. During the Civil War Mr. Bryant was a member of Company I, in McNiel’s battalion, serving under Price. He was in active service from June, 1862, until the surrender, participating in several engagements in both Louisiana and Arkansas. He has never sought office, but is a strong Democrat and an influential citizen.