James Ainsworth, a farmer by occupation, is a Mississippian by birth, and has inculcated in him the sterling qualities of the better class of citizens of that State. He was born in Monroe County in 1831, and is the eldest of ten children born to Harrison and Susan (Spencer) Ainsworth, a brief history of whom is given in the sketch of William Ainsworth, treasurer of Poinsett County. James became familiar with farm life through his father, who was a successful agriculturist, and his early scholastic advantages were only such as could be obtained in the common schools. After remaining under the parents' roof until thirty years of age, assisting in clearing the old home farm, he concluded it was time for him to start out in life for himself, and after purchasing and selling several farms, he bought his present place, consisting of 138 acres, of which fifty are under cultivation. In addition to what he raises he is engaged in buying and selling stock, and finds this a profitable way in which to invest his money. He has taken quite an interest in local politics, and in his views is a Democrat. Socially he is a member of Lodge No. 184, A. F. & A. M., of which he has been treasurer for the past fifteen years, and he also belongs to Chapter No. 74, R. A. M., in which he holds the position of scribe. He was married in Poinsett County, in 1868, to Emily Hale, but her death occurred ten years later, and he was married, in 1879, to Sarah Stevens, by whom he has three children: James Thomas, Katie Bell and Ollie Lou, Mrs. Ainsworth is an intelligent lady, a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, South, and is a daughter of Moses and Marion Stevens, who were born in Georgia and emigrated to Arkansas at an early day, and both died in Craighead County, Ark.