My Genealogy Hound

W. A. Baird is a farmer and stock raiser near Gordonsville, District No. 15. He was born in Smith County in 1845. He is the eldest of eight children of Jesse H. and Jane (Cochrum) Baird. Both parents are natives of Smith County, born in 1824 and 1829 respectively. The father was for several years justice of the peace; he is now living on his farm. Our subject was educated in the common schools of his native county. At the age of nineteen he began farming on his own responsibility. Ten years later he engaged in merchandising at Hickman Mills; he remained there four years, then sold out and came to Gordonsville. He entered into partnership with B. A. James, in the same line of business. After two years he sold his interest in the house to Mr. James, and purchased a farm, upon which he now resides. In 1864 he was married to Miss M. J., the daughter of Hon. J. B. and Martha James. Mrs. Baird was born in Smith County, in 1843. She was a consistent member of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. Her death occurred in 1883, leaving two children: Callie C., wife of W. A. Davis and Robert J. In 1884 Mr. Baird was united to Miss Lucy, daughter of John and Martha Gwaltney, who was born in Smith County in 1855. Our subject is a stanch Democrat and an active member of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. He owns 100 acres of valuable land on the Cumberland River, with a comfortable and commodious residence and all out buildings. The farm is well stocked and improved. Mr. Baird is a highly respected and worthy citizen.