My Genealogy Hound

Rev. Oliver P. Parker, a prominent Methodist Episcopal divine of Gibson County, Tenn., is a son of William and Jemima (Sanders) Parker, who were born, reared and married in Virginia. In 1812 they moved to Williamson County, Tenn., thence to Gibson County, in 1838. The father was a farmer and Whig, and was a Primitive Baptist in faith. He was of Scotch-Irish descent, and died in 1840. His wife, who was a Cumberland Presbyterian, resided on the old homestead until 1844, when her death occurred. She was of English lineage. Our subject is a Williamson County Tennessean, and was born on the 27th of May, 1824. His early educational advantages were limited, but on reaching manhood he attended school and acquired a good English education. In 1843 he wedded Elizabeth James, who was born on the 3d of April, 1825. To them were born eleven children, of whom seven are living. Mrs. Parker and six of the children belong to the Methodist Episcopal Church. During the days of militia, Mr. Parker held the position of captain two years, and that of colonel six years. He was revenue collector four terms, and filled the position of deputy sheriff. After his marriage he was for many years engaged in the saddle-tree, tan-yard, boot and shoe and harness business, and at the same time managed a farm. He was engaged in the mercantile business about four years, and as a business man has been very successful, notwithstanding the loss of about $30,000 in bad debts. He has been a minister since about thirty years of age, and is well known as a spicy public lecturer, some of his most practical addresses being “Road to Success,” “Hard Times,” “The Force of Habit,” and other common sense topics, which have been very favorably received by the public. Although he makes no pretense to classical scholarship, he is a vivid, forcible speaker, and one whom, when heard, will not be forgotten.