My Genealogy Hound

W. J. O’Shields. In the township in which the subject of this sketch lives there is not to be found a more attractive farm than his, and which calls forth the admiration of all who see it. His residence, barns, outbuildings, and, in fact, all necessary conveniences, bespeak of prosperity and show that he is a thrifty farmer, and of the 500 acres of excellent farming land which he possesses there are about 225 under cultivation. This he devotes to the raising of cotton and corn, and he also raises the necessary stock for the successful conducting of his farm. He was born in Jackson County, Ga., July 23, 1833, and is a son of Jethro and Polly (Boyce) O’Shields, the father a native of South Carolina and the mother of Georgia. They were married in the latter State, and at the time of the late conflict resided at Resaca. In 1867 he and his family came to Woodruff County, Ark., and here he departed this life during the following year, his wife’s death having occurred in Georgia prior to his coming to Arkansas. W. J. O’Shields is one of the three surviving members of a family of seven children, and was reared and educated in the State of Georgia. In 1862 he enlisted in Capt. Keith’s Company and was on active duty during the entire war, coming out of the army with no wound or mishap of any sort. He came with his father overland to Arkansas and in December, 1869, he purchased the farm where he is now living. He was married Jauuary 1, 1876, to Paralie Amelia Thompson.