My Genealogy Hound

Z. T. Matthews, of the firm of Matthews, Peterson & Pace, merchants of Jonesboro, is a native of Paulding County, Ga., born February 2, 1848. His parents, L. M. and Mary Ann Matthews, were natives of Virginia and Georgia, respectively, and were the parents of ten children; Z. T. and a sister, Louisa, in Paulding County, Ga., being the only survivors. The mother died in Georgia, and, by his second marriage, Mr. Matthews became the father of three children, all deceased. He was by occupation an agriculturist, and in the winter of 1857 came to what is now Craighead County, Ark., and located about one and one-half miles from the present site of Jonesboro. When, two years later, the town of Jonesboro was laid out, he was living on the present town site, and had his field planted with cotton. Some years later he moved to Poinsett County, where he died during the war. Z. T. Matthews was but eight years of age when he came with his parents to Arkansas, and here grew to manhood, receiving such education as the schools of that day afforded. He went to the first log schoolhouse built in the town, attended private schools and also the old academy. He was reared mainly on a farm, but, in 1868, began clerking at $12.50 per month, and retained that position for two years, and then entered into partnership with W. J. Witt, continuing but a short time. He then entered into a partnership with William Puryear, which lasted for about four years. Selling out to Mr. Puryear, he formed a partnership with J. C. Knight, with whom he continued eleven years, and then formed his present partnership. The firm has a large stock of dry goods, clothing, gent’s furnishing goods, boots and shoes, etc., and, by strictly fair and honest business principles, have established a splendid custom. Mr. Matthews is also a partner of Johnson, Berger & Co., dealers in groceries, furniture and hardware, owning both store buildings, which are large two-story bricks. In 1864 he was married to Miss C. J. Witt, and of this union four children have been the issue: Waughlie, Gordon, Eva, and Willie, who died when seven months old. Mr. and Mrs. Matthews are members of the Baptist Church. Mr. Matthews’ business career has been one of unusual success; starting as a clerk on a small salary, he soon engaged in business for himself; was during Grant’s administration appointed postmaster of Jonesboro, which position he held for about seven years, resigning in favor of J. D. C. Cobb, and now is a leading and successful citizen.