James W. Kirkham was born near Carrollton, Carroll Co., Ark., in November, 1861, and is a son of W. P. Kirkham and Nancy Harvey, natives of Georgia. The parents were reared and married in their native State, and removed to Arkansas about 1850, locating in Carroll County, where they still reside. James W. Kirkham grew to manhood on his father's farm, and when sixteen years of age was employed as clerk in Mr. Nunnally's store. He continued clerking until 1881, when he became a partner in the store. They have since conducted the business under the firm name of Nunnally & Kirkham. This firm built the Carroll Flouring Mill, which they operate in connection with their mercantile business. They also own three farms in the county, which they have cultivated by renters. Mr. Kirkham's marriage with Lizzie Nunnally was celebrated in this county, November 17, 1880, and to them have been born two children: Leslie and Ethel. Mrs. Kirkham is a native of Missouri, and a sister of Mr. Kirkham's partner. Mr. Kirkham is a young man of good business qualities, who is highly respected.