My Genealogy Hound

WILLIAM R. POLK is a grandson of Charles Polk, one of the earliest settlers of Perry County, who entered a large tract of land in what is now known as Polk’s bottom. James Polk, the father of William R., married Charlotte Humphrey, and located on the old homestead, of which he fell heir to 100 acres. He reared a family of three sons and five daughters, of whom the subject of this sketch is the eldest son. William R. received a common school education in youth, and remained at home working on the farm until the opening of the Rebellion, when, October 12, 1861, he enlisted in Company L, Third Kentucky Cavalry. He served his country faithfully until receiving his discharge, January 14, 1865. After his return home he rented his father’s farm for upwards of ten years, and at the latter’s death he located upon the portion which he inherited. He continued farming until 1880, when he turned his attention to the nursery business, and the following year formed a partnership with his brother Edwin, the firm being known as Polk Bros. October 1, 1868, he married Eliza Gilbert, who died October 1, 1875, leaving a family of five children: Bertha, Anna, Mary, Eliza and Jacie. Politically Mr. Polk is a Republican, and is the present assessor of the township. He is a member of the G. A. R. and of the Baptist Church. He was born in Tobin Township, July 14, 1839.