Uncover Craighead County, Arkansas Captivating History

Question

Prepare to be spellbound by the abundance of notable figures that have graced this remarkable county. Although the list is extensive, allow me to tantalize your curiosity by highlighting just a few remarkable personalities that will ignite your interest. Delve into the captivating world of Carolina Cotton, the yodeling sensation hailing from Arkansas, whose talent once graced the screens of black and white televisions. Immerse yourself in the diverse musical tapestry that spans jazz to rockabilly, as gifted musicians from the county bewitch audiences with their harmonious melodies. And for those with an insatiable passion for sports, look no further – this is the ultimate destination to indulge in your athletic aspirations.

Regardless of your specific interests, rest assured Craighead County has an abundance of riveting tales and captivating discoveries waiting for your arrival. So, seize the opportunity to gaze upon the vibrant past of this extraordinary region and uncover the long-lost treasures you've been tirelessly seeking.

Comments

Did you know that Craighead County was originally part of Mississippi County??

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Yes, a few other counties. Interesting story about how it almost became Crowley County, but was named after someone who opposed it.

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This is the county where my surprise paternal line comes from. I'd love to learn more about its history.

It is especially my hope that someone involved with this county, most especially the city of Jonesboro, has pictures of my paternal grandparents Morris and Mildred (Gilley) McDaniel.

Have a blessed day, everyone!

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If this isn’t the right place to post this question please let me know. I don’t see Craighead County mentioned very often so I’m placing this here.

My paternal GGF John Hamilton was adopted at a very young age. That must be where my Hamilton surname came from because I have no dna connection with any ancestral Hamiltons beyond John. Family stories suggest he was the only survivor of a raid on his family or that a migrating family dropped him off because they couldn’t support everyone in their group. We don’t know anything about his biological or adoptive parents but one theory is that he grew up in Texas Township, Craighead County, Arkansas in the household of Charles Hamilton and wife Jane (1880 census). Here is a more complete summary along with yDNA analysis by Leah Larkin https://thednageek.com/the-gilliland-mystery/.

Thoughts or information are certainly welcome.

Regards, Gary Hamilton

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I see from the link there are a few leads or possibilities. My suggestion is to track those family histories. If you can track them, you could rule them out as a possibility if the John in that family tree can be found and doesn't match. My second suggestion is a leap, but you mentioned a family story about a raid or being dropped off by the group. There was a wagon train that left Arkansas for the west, where many families were killed and the children taken in the Mountain Meadow Massacres. (Baker–Fancher party - Wikipedia). Hamilton family was with the group, but they left before the massacre. It is possible they left him behind with intent to send him later, but were never re-united. Just a thought.