Pylant Geneology

WILLIAM H. ASHBY, farmer, is a son of Halifax and Eliza Jane (Hall) Ashby and was born in Lincoln County, May 28, 1830. He was one of a family of eleven children, ten of whom are living. The grandfather, also named Halifax, was born in England, immigrated to North Carolina. where he reared his family. Our subject's father was born in North Carolina, in March, 1807, and received his education in the schools in the vicinity. He was married in 1829, and followed agricultural pursuits, owning at the time of his death, which occurred in October, 1873, 250 acres of good productive land. The mother of our subject was born in North Carolina in May, 1808, and died in March, 1876. William, our subject, received his education in the common schools, and, November 2, 1862, was united in marriage to Mary Elizabeth Ramsey. This union resulted in the birth of nine children, seven of whom are living: Benjamin A., Sallie J. (wife of L. H. Wiley), James H.. Felix B., Tinnie, Mary E. (wife of William Pylant) and Willie E. Mr. Ashby now owns 300 acres of valuable land and is in good circumstances. June 80, 1866, Mrs. Ashby died, and in August. 1868, Mr. Ashby wedded Ellen E. Wadley, a native of Tennessee, born March 9, 1840, and a daughter of J. B. and Matilda Wadley. To Mr. and Mrs. Ashby were born five children: John M., David W.. Susan C., Eliza D., and Ida May. Mr. Ashby is a life-long Democrat and was formerly a member of the I. O. O. F. He and wife are leading members of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church.