My Genealogy Hound

J. M. Ridgway, mayor and magistrate of Martin, Tenn., was born in Weakley County, in 1828, on November 15. He is one of four surviving members of a family of six children, born to John and Rebecca Ridgway. The father was born in Virginia, in1791, and came to Weakley County, Tenn., in 1823, and there resided at the time of his death, which occurred in 1874. The mother was born in Christian County, Ky., in 1802, and is now residing on the old home place, with her son, J. G. Our subject was educated in the district schools, and in 1851 married Miss S. A. McWhirter, daughter of James McWhirter. Mrs. Ridgway was born in Weakley County, in 1829, and departed this life September 20, 1873, leaving five children: Julia A. (Mrs. Thomas Adkins), Cordelia (Mrs. W. J. Burnett), Arminta (Mrs. J. W. Killebrew), Eugenia P. and Loranda. After his marriage Mr. Ridgway began farming and manufacturing boots and shoes. He also followed mercantile pursuits in Palmersville, and continued these occupations until 1878, when he disposed of his business at that place, and moved to Martin, and has continued his boot and shoe manufacture. In 1852 he was elected magistrate of his district, and served by re-election up to 1878, when he resigned the position. Since 1880 he has held the position of mayor, and in 1885 was chosen magistrate of the Second District. Up to the time of the war, Mr. Ridgway was a successful tobacco dealer, but since that time he has met with heavy losses. He is a Democrat, and a member of the Masonic and I. O. O. F. fraternities, and belongs to the Missionary Baptist Church.