Robert & Josephine's daughter Lola *An Update w/Photos

     I am so excited that I finally have some photographs of Lola J. Fleming. Thanks to Lola's Great Granddaughter, Marcia Henshaw. It was a few weeks back that I got a lead one day while searching on Ancestry.com.  I found a link to a few photos that I couldn't see but would need permission to have access. I sent a message to the owner of this profile and before too long I received a message back. Since that time we've sent several emails back and forth. Marcia was so gracious and kind to not only send me some fantastic photos, but sent along some very useful family history. I guess now that I have gushed over them long enough, it's time to share them with my readers. 

     In case you've forgotten who Lola is or if this is your first time viewing my blog, I'll give you a quick refresher. You can also go back to the original blog about Lola, entitled "What ever happened to Lola?"

     Lola Josephine Fleming is the only child to Robert and Josephine Fleming. Dr. Robert Fleming, known for having built The Josephine Hotel and named it in honor of and as a tribute to his virtuous and accomplished wife. The Josephine Hotel is located in on Prairie Street in downtown Union Springs, Alabama. It was erected in 1880 and opened in October of that same year. It was a beautiful hotel and one of the finest in Alabama. The food served in its dining room provided the best meal you could get in the area. People came from all around to eat there. The hotel was not run by the Fleming's, but instead was managed by a Mr. T. W. Brown. He was regarded as one of the best hotel managers in the country. Dr. Fleming wanted nothing but the best and he got it. 

     The hotel continued to operate for nearly 11 years under the ownership of Dr. Fleming. At some point Dr. Fleming became ill and died on September 27, 1891. For the next 11 months his grieving widow, Josephine, could not bare to be without her beloved husband. She too passed away on August 20, 1892.

     The responsibility of the Josephine Hotel would now fall upon Robert and Josephine's 29 year old daughter, Lola. She was set to marry James D. Williford later that year. But first she would have to bury her Mother and figure out what next to do. 

     Lola turned 30 years old on December 6th, just before her marriage to James on December 15th 1892.  I can't imagine it was a large wedding at all. With her Father passing away just four months earlier, her mother's passing, probably put a damper on any formal wedding. Lola would have opted for a justice of the peace type wedding. 

Below here's your first look at Lola:

Below is James David Williford, Lola's husband.

     After Lola and James were married, at some point they move to Tuscaloosa, Alabama. James was a druggist. I believe we call them Pharmacists today. It seems that during this time Lola put The Josephine Hotel up for sale sometime during the following year. Lola and James began starting a family and settled into the community where they lived in Tuscaloosa. Before long, Lola gave birth to her first child, whom she named after her Father.  Robert Fleming Williford born in 1894. 

     Then in January, 1895 the Josephine Hotel was sold to a person whose name I can't read on the promissory note. The fancy writing back in those days is sometimes a little hard to read. Both James and Lola would have had to come back to Union Springs to take care of this business. The promissory note states that the person buying the building will be making payments of $389.00 per month to her for a period of time that I cannot read. It includes the Hotel and the three spaces on the ground floor which had three different businesses inside. Both James and Lola sign this document.

Below is the Promissory note. Sorry for the quality, they are scans of copies and quality gets lost in the process.

 

     Later in the year of 1895, after the business of the Hotel is complete, Lola gives birth to a second child, James David Williford Jr., born on Nov. 1st, 1896 and named after his Father. 

     Here's a look at this beautiful family portrait of the Williford family. From left to right: James Williford, , Robert, the baby is James David Jr. and then Lola.

     It was in 1897 when James and Lola had a third child, a girl, whom they named Lola. Sorry, I don't have a photograph of little Lola. Though a photo may turn up one of these days. 

      In December of 1899, tragedy struck the Williford family. James, Lola's husband, suddenly passed away. He was 46 years old when he left behind his beloved Lola, who at 37 was now a widow with three small children under the age of 6.  I believe Lola returned with her children to Union Springs for a time. I don't know for how long, but I suppose it was to be nearer to some of her family. Then tragedy struck again and Lola's daughter, six year old Lola died on the 6th of November 1902. This was an unimaginable loss to Lola as it would be expected when a woman loses a child. Lola never remarried.

Below: I am told this school was in Union Springs. Both of Lola's boys Robert and James attended here. They are in this photo somewhere. 

Below: Here is another of both boys in front of a house somewhere in Union Springs. The oldest, Robert is on the right. He's wearing a baseball glove.  On the left is James David.  He is holding a cat.

I would only be speculating when I say, this could have been the home of Robert and Josephine Fleming, when they were alive.  I say that because I know that the home and the property were not sold until 1912.  So this could be Lola's childhood home. I also know that where the house is believed to have been located was where the Telephone Company is now, which sits across from the Presbyterian Church, of which Robert, Josephine, and Lola attended. Also many of the Cowans' attended the same church.

          After the house was sold, Lola and her boys moved to Akron, Ohio. I believe either before moving to Ohio, I learned that Robert did attend Alabama Polytechnical Institute for about 2 years but dropped out. Robert did serve in WWI. James David also served in military in WWI also. Prior to serving, James David was working for The Goodyear Tire plant.  His draft registration says that he was 20 years old and single.  It also said that he has a dependent and lists his Mother, Lola as his dependent. It's dated May 31st, 1917.

Below: Registration for the draft card for James David Williford.

Below: James David Williford, (Far Left), at the Georgia Military Institute. I am guessing this is where some basic training took place. 

Here's another nice portrait of Lola in later years. 

And here's one more photograph of Lola J. Fleming Williford in her later years.

Lola's oldest Son, Robert married a lovely lady named Nellie Freck. She was born in England. James, her other son married a lady by the name of Minnie Arvella, nicknamed, Abba. Lola lived with James and Minnie until her death in 1933.  She was 71 at the time of her passing. 

Below: A photograph of James and Minnie.

You know, we can sit back and read about someone's life and say, "Awwwhh, that is so sad." At first glance we see on the surface that Lola had profound loss in her life and we think, "Gosh, I don't think I could go on living." While that is true for some, I think there are people who possess tremendous inner strength and courage that while they do hurt, their pain is mitigated by turning to their faith. Lola must have had this kind of faith to help her go on and have a life that she could bare and still find some joy and happiness. She had two wonderful boys, whom she adored and they must have thought the world of her.  It's nice to see that they cared for her to the end. Very nice. We can all take a lesson from Lola's courage and strength. We can let life's trials set us back or we can look to our faith for the will to go on and have a great life in spite of our pain and set backs. Good for you Lola, good for you. 

I'd like to say thank you to Marcia Henshaw for these wonderful photos and allowing me to write and share a little piece of her Great Grandmothers life with all of my readers.  

 **The years listed for births and deaths may not exactly match those of others who have also done research. I get my dates from the Census, and other databases that I use. My apologies if they may not reflect the same. I try so hard to see to it that my information is as accurate as possible. I also would never purposely disrespect or question the integrity of anyone's research. My intentions are genuine and I consider it a privilege to research this fine family and it is my sincerest hope that the information presented in my blog will reflect their stories through my hard work and joy that goes into each post and that every word is as truthful as I know it to be. **

Be sure to check back and see the latest right here on this blog...

Oh, that Josephine

Josephine Fleming's oldest sister, Maldie.

     All of the siblings of Josephine Fleming have now been accounted for.  Including their spouses and children. Now we've made it to the oldest of the siblings. Maldonetta Cowan Buford, also known by her nickname, Maldie. She was born in 1836.  She is the only one of the Cowan children who was born in Blount County, Tennessee, in the town of Maryville before they moved to Eufaula, Alabama.

     Below is a portrait of Maldonetta Cowan.

     On March 22, 1854 Maldonetta married Samuel Wallace, (Born 1831). He was the youngest son of General William Wallace and Margaret Chamberlain. 

Below marriage recorded in Eufaula, Alabama:

     General Wallace was commissioned in the War of 1812.  After the war, General Wallace was elected Sheriff of Blount County, Tennessee. He served as Sheriff from 1820 - 1842.

     Below is a portrait of General William Wallace. He and his wife had 7 children, one of which was their youngest, Samuel, who later marries Maldonetta Cowan.

     Here's a notice that "Sheriff Wallace" puts in the newspaper regarding the sale of land that will take place at the courthouse.

     Below: Gen. William Wallace announces his candidacy for Presidential Elector.

     Below: General William Wallace wrote a letter to his friend and soon-to-take-office, President James Polk. Sends his regrets for being unable to be more active in the election.  Explains illness and the death of his wife soon after the election.

     Then later, more sad news is received that after only 13 months of marriage, Maldonetta's husband, Samuel died. He died on April 19, 1855. The cause is not know to me. I've looked everywhere possible and can find no cause of death. Then after the passing of some five years, Maldie marries her second husband, James Buford on June 14, 1859.  James Buford was half brother to Jefferson Buford. 

     Below Portrait of Jefferson Buford.

     Yes, there is a story when it comes to Jefferson Buford.  There are many connections to the Cowan family and beyond. Let's start with Jefferson Buford though, He served in the Creek Indian War of 1836 (This is when they ran most of the Creek Indians out of this area of Alabama). But he is more famed for the "Buford Expedition To Kansas". He was a Barbour County lawyer best known for attempting to move pro-slavery settlers into Kansas territory during the mid-1850's to ensure slavery wouldn't be outlawed in the state as it entered the Union. He was also owned a plantation with slaves of his very own and it was located on the Chattahoochee River. This is the same river that the town of Eufaula is situated on. 

     Jefferson Buford was a partner in one of the most successful law firms in Alabama, located in Clayton. (Barbour County) He was partners with, Senator James L. Pugh, and Edward C. Bullock. If you recognize those names it's because I've already mentioned that James Pugh is the brother to Anna S. Pugh Cowan, Josephine and Maldonetta's Mother.  As for Edward C. Bullock, he was a brilliant and successful attorney leading up to the Civil War. He served as a Colonel during the war. Our county is named after him. Bullock County was carved out and created for the purpose of honoring him Edward Bullock. Parts of Macon, Pike, Montgomery, and Barbour counties were given up in order to form a new county and named in his honor. 

     Maldonetta's soon-to-be husband, James Buford, graduated college at Columbia, South Carolina. He returned to Eufaula after graduation and spent some time studying law, and learning before he subsequently attended a law school in New Orleans. James graduated law school in 1852 and was admitted to the Alabama Bar in the same year.  James then returns again to Eufaula and becomes the editor of "The Spirit of the South" newspaper, prior to and during the Civil War.  

      Then on a sunny day in June of 1859, (The same year her Father passed away.), a Barbour County Justice of the Peace joined James McClure Buford and Maldonetta Cowan Wallace in holy matrimony.  By this time, James was 35 years old and Maldie, just 23 years old was about 12 years younger than him. 

     The Bufords didn't waste any time starting their large family. Maldie was a baby making machine, giving birth to 8 healthy children. Here are their names:
William Cowan Buford - (Names after her recently deceased father)
Carrie Elise Buford
Jefferson Pugh Buford
Annie Ester Buford
Rosa Theresa Buford- (Named after 2nd youngest sister)
LeRoy Eaves Buford
Mary Melton Buford- (Named after a sister that died as a baby.)
Emily Alexander Buford-(Also named after a sister who died,)

     Now, back to James. When the war was over the paper he'd been editor of had now changed it's name to "The Eufaula News". James remained the editor of that paper until 1874. I guess he was still practicing law while being the editor. He may have practiced at his brother's law firm at least until November of 1883, when he moved himself and his family to Atlanta where he practiced law at a firm there for about five years.  At some point around May of 1887, it appears that Alabama must have been calling him home for an opportunity, this time in Decatur, Alabama.  So, once again, the family uprooted from Atlanta and moved to Decatur.

     This is where I lose the family's whereabouts. There is a period of time that I can't completely account for. Some how the Bufords wind up in Portland, Oregon. Why? That's a good question. I don't know when they went, what they were doing there or how long they stayed. Well, maybe I know how long she stayed. Maldie passed away in 1899 at the age of 63. She is buried at River View Cemetery, there in Portland. 
Here's her grave marker below:

     Maldie's husband, James died just a few short years later on May 10, 1904. He was laid to rest in Evergreen Cemetery in Los Angeles, California. Maldie and James were married for 40 years. Though they may be buried so far apart, I have a feeling their still together. 

     I wish I had more information about Maldonetta, but like most of the Cowan sisters, they must have been contented in staying out of the limelight. They each married successful men who went to work and provided for the family. But the Cowan women were strong and smart at running the home and caring for the children, seeing to their education, teaching manners, teaching them to respect authority and elders, and teaching them to pray and to always be thankful. It was a full time job that required strength, self discipline, and faith. The Cowan sisters were raised with good values, lived virtuously, were deeply committed to their faith, served in their churches, and honored their husbands. They were role models to their children in hopes they would also grow up to be good adults. I think that's a great way to be. 

     Well that's all for this post. Coming up in the next post is very exciting. I will be updating what new and wonderful information I now have about Lola J. Fleming. (The only child to Robert and Josephine Fleming, of the Josephine Hotel.) I have several photos I have received from the Great Grandaughter of Lola.  She graciously shared them with me so I could share them with you, my readers. So stay tuned. You're gonna love them.

Josephine Fleming's only brother, James G. Cowan.

     By now, you've been introduced to a couple of Josephine's siblings. There are still two more to go, One is the oldest sister Maldonetta, who we will get to in a later post. The other is the only male sibling Josephine and her sisters had.  James G. Cowan was his name, also named after an uncle. I have found him to be a very remarkable man for a few reasons.  His service to his family, country, and his community to name a few.  

     James G. Cowan was born in 1840 in Eufaula, Alabama. His Father, Dr. William Cowan was one of the founders of Eufaula only it was known as Irwinton at the time. His mother, Anna Silva Pugh Cowan, was the sister to Senator James L. Pugh. James is the third child born to the Cowans. He had two older sisters, Maldonetta and Josephine. He also had two younger sisters, Rosa and Willie. There were also three other sisters born between he and sister Rosa. They were Mary, Ann, and Emily, but they all died either as young children or as babies or even at birth. So, James was not only the middle child, he was the only son to Dr. Cowan. 

     James was extraordinarily smart and brave. He must have possessed a passion for leadership and service. So, when it was time to go off to college there was only place he had in mind. The United States Military Academy at West Point, New York.

 Below: This is what his West Point Cadet Uniform would have looked like his day.

     Did you know that the United States Military Academy was founded in 1802?  Guess who it was founded by? Thomas Jefferson and George Washington.

Below: A senic view of it's earliest days around the time it was founded.

Below: This is what a drill looks like for a cadet around the time when James attended West Point.

 Below: If you were graduating from West Point around the time James G. Cowan did, this is what your class photo would have looked like.

     After James graduated from West Point, he join the Confederate Army. He served and fought in the Civil War as an officer until it ended. After the war he returned to Eufaula long enough to say hello, pack, and leave for law school. When James completed law school he moved to Abbeville, Alabama to begin practicing law. 

     Through my research I've learned that in addition to his law practice in Abbeville, James was the editor of the local newspaper from 1869 to sometime in the 1870's.  James never did marry. He served his community with humility and grace until he died. 

     James died on March 4, 1906 in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.

Below: I found this obituary written about him in the Montgomery Advertiser:

     James G. Cowan, who practiced law at Abbeville, in Henry County, many years, died at Tuscaloosa a few days ago.   He was over sixty years old and served in the Confederate Army.  Among lawyers he ranked high, but was of such shrinking modesty that he never made the reputation a man of his intellect could have easily made by any sort of energy.  He was a nephew of Senator James L. Pugh and has many relatives in the state.  He never married.

     James was 66 years old at the time of his passing. Still young by today's standards. I can't help but like this guy.  Who wouldn't? Here is a man so intelligent, graduates from the prestigious West Point Academy, serves and fights in the Civil War, goes to law school, becomes a lawyer, who is bright, intelligent, and far above average and yet, is so humble, modest, and gentle that he is perfectly contented to settle into a small community where he quietly goes about his life.  This is conducive to his upbringing.  As I've pointed out in previous posts on this blog, the children of Dr. William and Anna Cowan were all remarkable individuals. Yes, they had money, but were not ridiculously wealthy and they put more value into the practice of their faith, family, and community.  The place of his burial is unknown to me at this time. I plan to check into some cemeteries in and around Abbeville to see if he's buried there.

     Now comes the part where I have to admit that I almost made a mistake of confusing two cousins with the same name. The headstone below is that of James G. Cowan. I know this had to be the source of much confusion for any genealogists eager to fill in the empty slot of their ancestor. The headstone below is not the same James G. Cowan I am writing this blog about. This James was HIS cousin.  The one below was the son of Dr. Daniel Cowan, who was the brother to Dr. William Cowan, James' Father. Remember, this James, who this blog is about, was born in 1840 and the one below was born in 1846. Still strange to me, they both served in during in the Civil War. This means that the one below was only 15 years old at the start of the war. As you can see below, this head stone says he is a Confederate Veteran. While searching for more information, I stumbled upon yet another James G. Cowan. Yes, related to the same family. Another brother of Dr. William Cowan thought it would be a dandy idea to name his last son, James G. The "G" is for Good Lord... Now I have a headache.  

     Well, I would feel terrible if I didn't mention what I did learn about the James G. Cowan who lies beneath this headstone. I learned he was Editor the Union Springs Herald for years and years. He also was a publisher of several smaller periodicals and specialty publications too. He was the recipient of what you see in the photo above.  That is the distinguished Southern Cross of Honor.

This is how Wikipedia defines the Southern Cross.

The Southern Cross of Honor was a military decoration meant to honor the officers, noncommissioned officers, and privates for their valor in the armed forces of the Confederate States of America during the American Civil War. It was formally approved by the Congress of the Confederate States on October 13, 1862, and was originally intended to be on par with the Union Army's Medal of Honor.

The design for the face of the medal consists of a cross with a Confederate battle flag surrounded with a laurel wreath, with the inscription "The Southern Cross of Honor." On the back of the medal is the motto of the Confederate States of America, "Deo Vindice" ([With] God [As Our] Vindicator), and the dates 1861 1865.

      Well now that you're good and confused, I will conclude this post about James Cowan, the brother to Josephine Fleming. He was a humble servant to his community, a brother, cousin, son, and probably someone everyone could call a good friend. 

     As I have said before in previous posts, you may never know what impact you've made on this world. But after you're gone many may know you for more than what your money could buy.  It is what is in the heart and the good it did as well as the impression left on the people you were surrounded by. Integrity, humility, and goodness cannot be bought.  They are a product of a life lived that puts others before themselves, a giving and open heart, and living in grace through faith in God.

     My next post will be about the last of Josephine's siblings, Maldonetta Cowan Buford. 

Josephine's Sister, Rosa Cowan Denson

     As I've mentioned is previous posts, Josephine Cowan Fleming had four sisters, all of whom married quite well.  She has one brother, James, who was also accomplished and extremely humble. We'll get to more about James in a later post. 

Rosa Elizabeth Cowan Denson, the second youngest daughter to Dr. William L. Cowan and sister to Josephine. She was born in 1847. She was exactly ten years older than the youngest sister, and last child, Willie, to Dr. Cowan and wife Anna.

Like all the Cowan daughters, they were raised to be ladies. All were accomplished in their talents and were educated. Like a lot of women in this time, they meet a gentleman through friends or family, they attend dances, church socials, and society parties. This is courtship 101 back in the 1860's. Nevertheless,  Rosa meets William Henry Denson and the courtship begins. William is a bright, intelligent, and brave young man who is going places. 

When William was just a teen the Civil War broke out. He wasn't even 18 years old when he enlisted to serve in the Confederacy. He served under Major James F. Waddell. Waddell's  Battalion of Artillery was in every battle from Dalton to Atlanta. 1864 he was furloughed on account of his sickness, but later rejoined his command at Macon, Georgia and remained to the close of war.  He also served in the same Battalion as his older brother, John, who lost his life in the battle of Resaca in May of 1864. 

After William Denson's military service ended he returned home in Uchee in Russell County to raise crops. With the proceeds he went to Columbus, Georgia and began the study of law. He was admitted to the Alabama Bar in 1867. Some accounts say that he briefly practiced law in Union Springs, Alabama and other accounts say that he didn't begin practice until he moved to Lafayette, Alabama. However, he had to have spent some time in Union Springs because that is where he married his lovely bride, Rosa E. Cowan. 

It was 1868 when William and Rosa married. He was fresh out of law school and just 22 years old. Rosa, just 21 years old and both ready to set out and make a life together.  Remember, Rosa is the niece of Senator James L. Pugh. I am sure Uncle James was able to offer great advice to the up and coming, energetic and impassioned young lawyer. He must have listened because this guy really made a name for himself. Really.

When the young couple put down roots in Lafayette, Alabama, in 1870, young William put out his shingle and began his law practice. At this time Rosa is setting up the couples new home and getting ready for the arrival of their first child.

William and Rosa had five children and they are:

1. Annie L. Denson (1870 - 1943) Married Robert D. Hudson
2. Hugh C. Denson ( DOB ?)
3. William Augustus Denson (1877 - 1957) Married Ann Love Dowdell
4. John Barney Denson (1879 - 1947)
5. Lola Eloise Denson (1881 - 1967) Married Dr. John Percy Reid

Note the last child named Lola? Named after her sister, Josephine's daughter, Lola, who would have been around 18 years old at the time of her cousins birth. This was a pretty common practice to name children after family members. Also I looked it up and the name Lola was a common name from the 1860's through the 1890's. 

So, now we know what was keeping Rosa busy for several years. Running the household and keeping up with five children is not for the faint of heart. But that was only part of it. While Rosa kept plenty busy, her husband, William contiuned to build is law practice and then was elected and served as Mayor of Lafayette in 1874. He later ran for the House of Representatives in 1876. In 1877 he moved to Gadsden, Alabama, Etowah County and continued his law practice.  Later he was appointed by President Cleveland as United States District Attorney for the Northern and Middle districts of Alabama and served from June 30, 1885 to June 3, 1889. He served as chairman of the Democratic State Convention in 1890. Denson was also elected as a Democrat to the Fifty-third Congress (March 4, 1893 to March 3, 1895) After he lost renomination in 1894 he moved to Birmingham, Alabama and resumed the practice of law.  

See, I told you he made a name for himself. I would be remiss if I didn't mention a few more interesting things about William Denson.
He was a Royal Arch Mason and a Knight of Pythias. He was an active business man and very energetic. He was described as a broad shouldered, heavy-set, rotund sort of man; florid complexion, hair and beard slightly tinged with gray. Before the jury he is a powerful advocate; on the stump he is a forcible, logical and eloquent speaker; in conversation he is pleasing, cordial and entertaining. He was an uncompromising Democrat and served his party with much zeal and distinguished effect. He was a man of faith and integrity. 

There can be no doubt that being the wife of such a larger-than-life character like William had to be a full time job. Being raised the way she was, I have to believe that Rosa had to be content with not being in the limelight and doing the important job of raising the children and running the home.  

I wish I had more on Rosa, but something tells me her life was busy, sometimes hectic, but mostly satisfying and complete. 

Both William and Rosa died in Birmingham, Alabama. They are buried at Elmwood Cemetery.

That's all for this post. Coming up in the next post will be about the only brother of Rosa and Josephine, James G. Cowan.

Josephine's Youngest Sister, The Lovely Willie Cowan Jelks

     If ever a young lady had a bright future it was the lovely Willie Cowan Jelks.  She was the youngest child of Dr. William Cowan and Anna Pugh Cowan.  Her sister, Josephine was already 19 years old when she was born in 1857. Josephine would have taken on the role in aiding her mother, Anna, with child rearing.  Maldonetta, the oldest, was already married by this time and no longer living in the Cowan home. This left Josephine as the oldest and would bare a lot more responsibilities, at least for a while.  The following year, in 1858, Josephine would marry Dr. Robert Fleming, her Father's intern, who was working under Dr. Cowan.  Soon, Robert would also move into the Cowan family home and live there for a few years. Then in 1859, Dr. Cowan passed away at the age of 52.  This would leave a young 2-year-old Willie without her Father.  

     Robert and Josephine continued to live in the Cowan family home in Eufaula.  Josephine would also help out with the other Cowan siblings and assist her with other duties of the home. Sometime in the spring of 1862 Josephine would learn she was pregnant and this would have been a jubilant time in the home, but for the fact that the Civil War that was raging all around Eufaula.  The town was fortified with many soldiers from the Confederate Army.  There was a Confederate hospital located inside the borders of this occupied town. Eufaula was built along the Chattahoochee River so it would have been an excellent place to transport injured soldiers and bring in much-needed supplies.  There is no evidence that Dr. Fleming would have assisted with the wounded soldiers or not.  The Confederacy had its own doctors, so it's unlikely he would have been involved with that.  

     Later that summer Dr. Fleming, while sleepwalking, fell from the second-floor balcony to the porch below.  The accident left him paralyzed and confined to a wheelchair for the rest of his life.  He and Josephine would later move to Union Springs.  Dr. Fleming took a position in county government as a Register in Chancery and was a well-respected businessman. 

     Around 1868, Josephine's Mother, and youngest sister, Willie, who was about 11 years old, would come to live with Robert and Josephine.  This would be wonderful news to Robert and Josephine's only child, Lola who was 5 years younger than her Aunt Willie.  These two would become more like sisters than aunt and niece.

     Josephine would care for her ailing Mother, Anna until she passed away in 1869. Now, the 12-year-old Willie was orphaned. Naturally, Robert and Josephine would continue raising her as their own.  Willie and Lola were very close and almost inseparable.   

     From my research, I believe that Josephine played piano and that she taught both Willie and Lola to play.  It is also believed that both girls were educated beyond high school.  Willie may have been a very gifted pianist as well as accomplished vocalist.  She was also quite beautiful and as I have read in my research, there are many descriptions of her loveliness. Willie continued to live with Robert and Josephine Fleming until she was 26 years old.  She had caught the eye of a young man from Union Springs by the name of Robert C. Jelks.  

     Robert Jelks, born in 1851, was 6 years older than Willie.  He was established and had much to offer the young Willie Cowan.  The Cowan sisters were never much on big weddings. So far, as I have learned, all the Cowan daughters had very small ceremonies. They were humble and meek women and saw no reason to turn their weddings into an exhibition for flaunting their style or wealth. Each of the young Cowan daughters did not seek attention or to be written up in the social columns either. Therefore, in a small ceremony at the Fleming home, 26-year-old Willie Cowan married the 32-year-old Attorney, Robert Jelks on January 18th, 1883.  The newly wedded couple would soon move into a posh home at 311 Peachtree Street, Atlanta, Georgia.

In the graphic below I Googled that address and found it. Today, the house is gone and has been replaced with swanky apartments. Today, this area is known as Midtown, just a little south of Buckhead, but still, a very nice area to live in. Around 1883 this area was the Buckhead of its time and you could say it was the preferred subdivision on the edge of town where anybody who was anybody lived

Now, here's what Peachtree Street looked like around 1883 when Robert and Willie lived there. 

Here's another view around 1885:

Below:

This is a home that would have been similar the one Robert and Willie lived in on Peachtree Street in 1883.

     Robert Jelks was already a partner at a prestigious law firm in Atlanta, Georgia. England, Jelks, & Tappin was the name of the firm.  So, when Robert would head off to work this was the scene on Peachtree Street, where the firm was also located in downtown, Atlanta. 

Below: Peachtree Street in Downtown Atlanta around 1885.

Note the horse-drawn trolley. 

     If you're from Alabama and are somewhat a history buff, You may have noticed that the name Jelks sounds awfully familiar.  You'd be right.  That's because Robert Jelks had a younger brother, by the name of William Dorsey Jelks who would later, in 1901 be elected Governor of Alabama. He lived in Union Spring off and on at different times in his life. He received his early education in Union Springs or somewhere in Bullock County.

Below: We know that the Jelks brothers were certainly living in Union Springs around the time the Josephine Hotel was completed. The hotel officially opened in September of 1880. This is a copy of the 1880 census showing both Robert Jelks and brother William Jelks were there.

     After Governor Jelks had successfully served two terms in office, he moved to Birmingham and founded Protective Life Insurance Company. When he decided to retire from Protective Life, he acquired a substantial interest in The Union Springs Herald and moved to Eufaula where he bought the Eufaula Times from his family who had owned it for years. He remained Editor of the paper until his death at age 76 in 1933.  He is buried in Eufaula, Alabama.

     After just two years of marriage, Robert and Willie had a large circle of friends. One can only imagine the lovely parties given by Willie at her home on Peachtree Street.  After a sumptuous dinner with friends in the glorious dining room, you could just see her in a lovely gown like the one below that would have been popular to wear while entertaining at a social gathering in 1885.  

Now imagine, if you will, Robert and Willie's friends urging her to play the beautiful music she was known to play on the piano.  "Come on, Willie. Please play something for us.  We'd love to hear you play."  Of course, the humbleness of this young woman would show and she graciously says, "No, you don't want to be bored with that."  But after some encouragement from her husband Robert, she was compelled to sit down at the piano and begins to play so beautifully that the music fills the room to the top of its 14-foot ceiling while its sweeping sound softly echoes throughout the home. With each key being played so delicately, each enchanting note casting a near hypnotic spell over its listeners. The gifted pianist completes the entire piece, leaving nearly everyone in the room in a virtual trance. It is no wonder she was loved and adored by so many.

     Sadly, it was on Christmas day that the lovely young, 28 years old,  Willie, died after a very short illness.  The news traveled fast throughout her social circle of close friends. The next day it was in the newspaper in Atlanta, Georgia. 

Here is what the Atlanta Constitution wrote on December 26, 1885:

Mrs. R. C. Jelks died after a brief illness yesterday morning at her home on Peachtree Street.  The body was sent to Eufaula, Alabama last night for interment. Mrs. Jelks was a popular lady and greatly liked in Atlanta.  Her death will cause a feeling of deep regret throughout her circle of friends.

Then this is what the Atlanta Constitution wrote the next day on December 27, 1885:

          DEATH OF MRS. JELKS

Her death occurs in Atlanta and her remains are interred in Eufaula. 

In the death of Mrs. Willie C. Jelks, a most estimable woman was called away from a large circle of warm friends, who had become attached to her because of her lovely character and many virtues.  The sad event occurred at 311 Peachtree Street, December 25th, at 4:30 am. This most estimable lady was Miss Cowan of Eufaula, Alabama.  January 18th, 1883 she married Mr. R. C. Jelks, of Atlanta, at her home.  She was buried in the family burying ground in Eufaula.  The deceased leaves three sisters and one brother to mourn her untimely death.  Her sisters are Mrs. R.A. Fleming of Union Springs. W.H. Denson, of Gadsden, and Mrs. J.M. Buford of Atlanta, and her brother, Mr. J.G. Cowan, of Abbyville, Alabama.  The deceased passed away at the age of 28.  She was also the Niece of Senator James L. Pugh, also of Alabama.

On January 6, 1886 The Union Springs Herald wrote this:

          Another white soul has gone to join the radiant hand above.  Mrs. Robert C. Jelks, formerly Miss Willie Cowan, of Union Springs, died at her home. Her remains where carried to Eufaula, Alabama and interred by the side of her honored Father, the late Dr. William Cowan.  There are many friends who knew this gifted and lovable lady and mourn her untimely death.  The tenderest sympathy is felt for her stricken husband.

     Such a sad ending for a young woman filled with so much talent, but more for the enormous void left in the lives of her friends and family, who by just being in her presence, knew they were all made to feel special and loved by this delightful lady.

     I cannot begin to imagine how the news of Willie's death must have impacted the Fleming family. To start with, there's Dr. Robert Fleming, who was not just Willie's brother-in-law but was more like a father throughout most of her life. Josephine Fleming would have been more like a mother than a sister. The impact of losing Willie most likely caused Josephine to grieve as if she had lost her own child. Lastly, there was Lola.  Only five years separated their ages and their bond was that of a close sister. Lola was an only child and to her, Willie was an aunt, sister, best friend, confidant, and someone she looked up to.  All gone. Just like that. 

     Willie's grief-stricken husband never re-married. I couldn't find any evidence that he did.  Nor did he have any children. At some point, he moved to Birmingham, Alabama and lived there until his death in 1922.  He was 71 years old at the time of his death. 

    

     As I conclude writing this post, I decided as I was finishing up that I didn't want to leave this on a sad note at all. I mean, this was tragic and sad. I know in life we all, at some time are going to die. It seems there could be a moral to this story, right?  Well, there is, but it may not be what you think. Some folks may say, "Hey life is short, live it up." or "Live your life to the fullest." But living life up or to the fullest, what does that mean, really? Do everything you can? Live without rules? Just have fun, nothing else matters? I don't think there is anything wrong with fun or following your dreams.  But the lesson here comes from Willie, Josephine, Lola, or for that matter, Dr. Robert Fleming. They had money and things, but they don't have it now. They could buy things, but they don't have them now. What they all have now and can't ever be taken away is their good name. People won't remember what kind of cars you drove throughout your life, but they will remember you, your character, and your heart. 

It reminds me of a fitting verse from Proverbs 22: A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches and loving favor rather than silver and gold.  

I believe I want to be remembered most for what was good in me. How I treated people and how I made them feel. I want to be the friend you count on and the shoulder you'll cry on. I want people to see me, not for what I have, but for who I have in me.  As a Christian, that's what I am supposed to do.  Can you imagine if everyone did this? How great would the world be?  If only we tried a little harder to make our little piece of the world a little better, it can be better for all.

Thank you, Willie, for helping me see things just a little more clearly.

The Historic Josephine Hotel... For Sale

          Yes, you read that title correctly.  The historic Josephine Hotel that I've been blogging about is actually up for sale now.  The owners are ready to slow down and take it easy.  I was surprised when I heard the news, but I completely understand.  They've put their heart and soul into renovating the building to the best of their abilities.  They have done most of the work themselves, with the exception of contracting the help of the electricians, plumbers, and roofers who put in a fantastic roof that will probably be there for another 100 years. The owners have simply run out of time.   Sooner or later, age catches up to all of us. What we envision doing or getting accomplished is driven by our heart but the age of our bodies simply says, "No, I don't think so." 

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       The owners didn't get to reach the goals they had hoped for, but they gained a whole lot more.  They learned so much about the long 136 year history of this fantastic building. The businesses that have occupied the ground floor over the years.  Even the 2nd and 3rd floors remained a hotel from day one of 1880 until sometime in the mid 1980's.  

From what I know, the bones of this grand building are structurally sound.  I've personally been in almost every nook and cranny of this building, it has tremendous potential.  Even as I walked up the grand staircase, there is not as much as a squeak or a cracking sound. 
If you go back through my previous posts about the building, I have thoroughly documented, floor by floor, all this building has to offer. *Check out my 7 part series I did on the building. There are lots of photos and info too.

Just about anything you want to know about the Josephine, I have probably written about it and will continue to for as long as I can find new information. 

       Oh yes, and there is that book I've already begun writing. That's right.  The builder of the Hotel, Dr. Robert Fleming named this building in honor of his beloved wife, Josephine.  I have spent the last 2 years and 4 months researching these two people and their families. There is a beautiful love story that surrounds Robert and Josephine.  Their lovely story has to be told and it will as soon as the book is released.  This will hopefully drive interested people to Union Springs to see the town, it's historic sites, and of course the Josephine Hotel.  I'm personally hoping someone does buy the building and restores it back to a fully functioning hotel.  The story and the history that swirls about the building will breathe new life into this wonderful historic place. 

Here's a link for details on the building and how to buy it:

http://www.promiselandusa.net/listings-/126-n-prairie-st.html

On that site you'll find the historic home that the owners are selling as well. They will be moving from Union Springs. Just check it out while you're there.

On that note I'll just say that I will continue to blog about the building, it's history, and the people it's affiliated with. There is still so much to tell and I have plenty of information to keep me busy for quite sometime.  So, stay tuned. 

What Ever Happened To Lola?

     Did you know that Dr. Robert Fleming and his wife, Josephine had a daughter?  That's right, they only had one child and her name was Lola Josephine Fleming.  Born December 6th, 1862.  She was actually born in Eufaula, Alabama.  

She may have been born right inside the Cowan family home and delivered by a mid-wife, which was very common in those days. She was not delivered by her father, Dr. Robert Fleming as he had suffered a terrible fall from the balcony that left him paralyzed for life.  

After Robert's recovery and rehabilitation he moved his family to Union Springs, Alabama, when he had began his new career in county government as a Register in Chancery.  Today we call that position a County Clerk.  Dr. Fleming may have still practiced medicine but it wouldn't have been his primary profession.  He was a business man, and of course, we know he built the magnificent, Josephine Hotel. 

Lola was also raised with her Mother's youngest sister, Willie. This came to pass when Josephine's Mother became to ill and could not care for herself and her youngest child, Dr. Fleming had them move in with them so that Josephine could care for her ailing Mother, Anna.  When Anna passed away in 1869, her youngest daughter, Willie was just 12 years old.  This is why Josephine and Robert would then raise Willie as their own, along with Lola who was just 5 years younger.

I later found an 1880 Census report that confirms my findings.  It shows both Robert and Josephine in the home as well as daughter, Lola, who is at the time of the gathering of information, just 17 years old.  It lists her as a student. Willie Cowan is also listed as living in the same home.  She is 22 years old.  It's is believe she may have attended college.  But in other instances I have found that she lived in the Fleming home until she was married to Robert C. Jelks. I have much to tell about Willie and her husband Robert.  I will save that for another post.  

1880 is also the year of opening The Josephine Hotel in Union Spring, Alabama.

In September 1891, Lola's Father, Dr. Robert Fleming died.  I can't find how or what he died of but I am still on the hunt. Lola was still living at home at age 28.  I can only guess that Lola's only job for the coming months was to console her grieving Mother.  

Just 11 months after losing her Father, Lola's Mother now passes away in August, 1892.  Again, I do not have a cause of death and am still looking for that information. After Lola has buried both her Father and Mother, Lola marries James David Williford just 4 months later.  The date of their marriage was December 15th, 1892. James Williford was 9 years older than her.  He was 39. She turned 30 just before her wedding. 

My sources tell me that James had never been married before nor did he have any previous children. I also learned that he was an Attorney and that he was living in Union Springs at the time of their marriage.  I don't know if he was practicing law there or somewhere else outside of Union Springs. I do know that after they married they left Union Springs.  At first, it looks like they went to Tuscaloosa, Alabama, but that was for a short time. 

Lola and James had three children together:

Robert F. Williford - Born 1894  (Named after Lola's Father)
James D. Williford Jr. - Born 1895 (Named after Lola's Husband)
Lola Williford - Born 1897 (Named after herself)

I have a copy of a document that is a promissory note that shows a time when James and Lola returned to Union Springs to sign papers selling some property along with the Josephine Hotel building in 1894.  (See document below)

They later moved to Akron, Ohio.  He set up his law practice there and that is when sadly, in 1899, Lola's husband suddenly passed away at the age of 46.  All three of her children were ages 6 and under. 

I have a copy of another document which shows that Lola once again returned to Union Springs, perhaps one final time in 1912. The document refers to Lola J. Williford as a widow.  The document, while hard to understand, is a legal document that uses land survey markers in describing the property that is being sold. It's difficult to tell if it is just land, a home, or both.  She is selling to a Mr. J. T. Shirley for the sum of $2000.00. 
(See document below)

Lola returns to Akron, Ohio where she continued to raise her children.  I have no evidence that she ever married again as everything I came across showed that she was a widow and remain that way until her death in 1933.  She was 71 when she died. 

I wish there had been a happier ending for Lola.  I'm sure she found joy in raising her children and perhaps surrounded by grandchildren.  I am still searching for info on her and her family.  I will post as soon as I know.