My Genealogy Hound

Hon. Gibson Witt. The profession of law has attracted the best talent of this county, and a striking instance of this is seen in the gentlemen composing the firm of Watkins & Witt, for they stand at the very top of the bar in the State of Arkansas. Mr. Witt was born in Hamilton County, Tenn., May 2, 1858, to J. C. and Martha (Watkins) Witt, both of whom were born in Tennessee, the former being a native of Hamilton County. He grew to manhood there, followed the occupation of farming, but after the death of his wife, in 1859, he went to Texas, where he remained until the close of the war, at which time he went to Missouri. He resided in different portions of that State until 1875, when he moved to Van Buren County, Ark., and in 1877 settled in Conway, Faulkner County, and about 1880 came to Montgomery County, but is now a resident of Nashville, Ark. He held the position of city marshal of Conway, and is now filling that position in Nashville. His wife, whose maiden name was Rogers, the widow of William Watkins at the time he married her, died when the subject of this sketch was thirteen months old. He was reared to the age of five years by his Grandmother Witt, with whom he resided in Texas for some time. He later rejoined his father, and made his home with him until he attained man’s estate. He was given a fair education in the schools of Glasgow, Mo., and completed his knowledge of books in Quitman College and the State University at Fayetteville. In 1881 he turned his attention to the study of law, under his half-brother, John A. Watkins, at Mount Ida, and in August, 1883, was admitted to practice by Judge H. B. Stewart. After practicing his profession alone for some time, he, in April, 1886, formed a co-partnership with his half-brother, Mr. Watkins, which connection has since existed. In February, 1888, he was licensed to practice in the Supreme Court of the State. Soon after leaving school he became county examiner of schools, and held that position continuously for four years. He was elected a representative to the State Legislature in 1888, and again in 1890, both times by large majorities, and is now discharging the duties of the last-named office. He served on the judiciary committee and memorials, and was active in supporting a number of important measures. December 26, 1883, his marriage with Miss V. A. Owen, of this county, was celebrated, she being a daughter of James P. Owen. To them three children have been born: Jerry, Earl and Lessie. Mr. Witt is a Mason, and in his political views is a stanch Democrat.