My Genealogy Hound

T. J. TEDDER. On section 12, township 47, range 24, lies a pleasant, finely tilled and well improved farm, which is the property of our subject. He has been a resident of this estate for about thirty-five years, and has thus aided very materially in the pioneer labors which have brought Johnson County to its present high position among those in the state.

Mr. Tedder is a native of Tennessee, having been born in Roane County, February 18, 1822. He is the eldest in the family of James and Elizabeth (Todd) Tedder, both of whom were born in North Carolina. Their removal to Tennessee was accomplished in a very early day, and there they continued to live until their decease. The father was advanced in years at the time of his death, being at that time fifty-six years of age. He fought as a soldier in the War of 1812. His good wife preceded him to the grave, dying when T. J. was fourteen years old. They were farmers by occupation, and accumulated a good property by downright hard labor, by that wise economy that knows how to spend as well as save, and by the exercise of sound judgment in all that they did. They were classed among the most respected citizens of Roane County.

During the boyhood of our subject he was not permitted to attend school regularly on account of his services being required in farm work. After attaining his majority, however, he went to school, and thus attained a fair knowledge of the common branches taught at that time. He was thoroughly trained to the occupation of a farmer and as his father became quite prosperous he decided to make this his life work also.

Mr. Tedder remained at home until twenty-eight years old and in 1858 came to Missouri. He lived for the following two years near Knobnoster and then, being able to become the owner of land, bought the estate on which he is now living. This includes one hundred and fifty acres of nice land, which he has placed under admirable tillage. As we have shown, he is entirely self-made, both in the matter of education and finances, and although he has met with reverses and discouragements, is well-to-do.

The lady who has the oversight of the home and household affairs was formerly Miss Mary E. Wilson, the daughter of John and Martha (Robinson) Wilson. Their marriage was celebrated in Tennessee, December 16, 1847. John Wilson was a native of North Carolina, while his wife was born in Grainger County, Tenn. To Mr. and Mrs. Tedder were born nine children, five of whom are deceased. Those living are John W., at home; George W., a citizen of Warrensburg; and Wilham L. and Louis J., at home. Mrs. Tedder is a sincere Christian and a member of the Baptist Church.

Mr. Tedder has never taken a very active part in politics other than to deposit a Democratic ballot upon election days. He evinces no desire for public office, but has served satisfactorily as District Clerk and Highway Commissioner. He is a man of solid virtues, sensible and thoughtful in his views, and with his good wife is regarded as one of the best residents of the township.