Pages 679-680
Jesse S. Jones, well and popularly known as a farmer and stock raiser of Petit Jean Township, was born in Hardeman County Tenn, on December 21, 1836. His parents were William Jones and Isabella Cain, both natives of the same State, the former being a brother of the famous Col. Jones, who took part in the Mexican War. Ten children were born to this couple, of whom five are still living, four sons and one daughter: James T. (a highly respected farmer in Yell County), Winfield S. (also a farmer and residing in Perry County), Andy (residing in Yell County), Nancy (wife of Alex. Leach, who resides in Yell County) and James S. (the latter being the eldest). Jesse remained with his father on the farm until almost sixteen years old, when he was engaged to carry the mail between Little Rock and Danville. He filled this position for two years and then had charge of the mail route between Little Rock and Fort Smith for one year, after which he was employed by a man named J.B. Howell, with whom he remained for a year, and then went to California. He worked in the mines of that State for two years, delving for the precious metal that had brought so many thousands to the coast, but like the majority he had to return with his hopes almost shattered. On his return he went to his old employer, Mr. Howell, and remained with him until 1862 and in that year was marred to Catherine Howell, by whom he has had thirteen children of whom only five are living: Martha B. (wife of Fate McGee), Mary E. (wife of Wade Jones), Catherine L., James W., Florence O. In November 1863 Mr Jones enlisted in Company C, Third Arkansas Cavalry and served until May 1865 when he was mustered out, performing his duties in a soldierly manner during that time. In point of wealth, he owns 320 acres of land on Rocky Cypress Creek of which 110 acres are under cultivation with a good dwelling, stables and a fine peach orchard. In politics Mr. Jones votes the Republican ticket and in 1877 represented Perry County in the legislature. Previous to that he served two terms as county treasurer and filled the office with the greatest credit to himself and party. He is also a member of the G.A.R. and one of the foremost men in Perry County.