My Genealogy Hound

MILES C. MAYS, one of the proprietors of the Bethel House, of Columbia, Tenn., was born in Maury County January 11, 1846, son of Miles H. and Elizabeth P. Mays, who were born in Virginia and Tennessee, respectively. The father was a successful farmer before the war, but was financially ruined during that conflict. During the close of the war he followed merchandising until the latter part of 1865, when he removed to Nashville, and from there to Dickson, Tenn., where he owned and operated a hotel until his death September 10, 1885. Miles C. Mays acquired a good education in Jackson College, being a student at the breaking out of the war. He (in 1864) enlisted as a private in Company E, First Tennessee Cavalry, serving until the conflict closed. Shortly after he engaged in the livery business, with which he has been connected ever since, R. P. Dodson being his partner. From 1872 to 1880 Mr. Mays conducted the Nelson Hotel of this city. In 1883 he managed the Bethel House, and two years later he and Mr. Dodson purchased the hotel, which they have operated very successfully since April, 1886. January 20, 1885, he married Maggie Lee Shaffer, of Terre Bonne, La. Mr. Mays is a Democrat, and is an enterprising citizen of Maury County.