CHAPTER 1

Page 3-5

Early Settlers of Hopewell Congregation

There is no more historic place in America than Mecklenburg County, and in the county no spot so conspicuous for men of daring and chivalric deeds in Revolutionary times as the Hopewell settlement. This section was settled by that sturdy Scotch-Irish clement who appear to have been born in the Presbyterian faith, strongly imbued with a love of liberty, religious freedom, and fair play. The majority of the pioneers came from Maryland and Pennsylvania. The section of which we write is bounded the west by the Catawba river, taking its name from the tribe of Indians who roamed over this portion of North Carolina long after the white people established homes on its borders; bounded on the cast by a high ridge without a single water course running across it for "twenty miles. The rain falling on the west side flows into the Catawba, and 011 on the cast side to Rocky River. In the early days of the settlement the southern and northern boundaries extended respectively for a few miles north of Charlotte, to Beattie's Ford, twelve miles northwest of Hopewell church. The lands were well watered, somewhat rolling, much of it prairie in fine grass and wild pea-vines, very fertile, and all capable of easy cultivation, except a small area covered with "nigger-head rock." It was once believed that only a wild and rugged climate and scant soil could produce the highest type of manhood, but the heroes of the Revolution, and their descendants in the last great struggle between the States, prove that it is more in the race than in the locality. It would have been a surprise to us if those pioneers who braved the wilds of the unknown wilderness and the. blood-thirsty savages had not made themselves a name for posterity to be proud of when they settled in this locality, on the extreme limits of western civilization - Mecklenburg having no western limit.

Hopewell church was organized in 1765, cotemporary with Rocky River and Sugar Creek. It was here that the spirit of civil and religious liberty first became manifest, taking deep root in the hearts of the people, and culminated in the world-renowned Declaration of Independence ill the town of Charlotte on the 20th of May, 1775.

Most of the signers of the Declaration, absolving their country from the crown of England, were members of the Presbyterian church, nine were ruling elders, and one a minister of the gospel. They lived to a ripe old age, and transmitted to their posterity a full account of the transactions of the ever-memorable 20th of May as the most important act in the wonderful drama that gave birth to American liberty. So that if no other proof but tradition of such a character, it should be sufficient to establish its validity in the minds of all unprejudiced persons.

Hopewell church being a central point of this interesting locality, and having suffered the irreparable loss by fire of all the church records for seventy-five years of her existence, it is now impossible to replace them, and as anything pertaining to the church's early history will be of interest, I take pleasure in appending a manuscript written by John McKnitt Alexander, an elder of Hopewell. Mr. Alexander having held many positions of honor and trust, adds interest to all subjects with which his name is connected, Without apology or further explanation his paper is subjoined.

"The people of Hopewell having in the autumn of the year 1791 obtained part of the ministerial labors of the Rev. Samuel C. Caldwell, the majority of them of themselves happy in" him as their teacher, and viewed themselves as being highly favored of their Creator in sending them such an earnest and zealous well-wisher of souls, to break the bread of life unto them. But there was a certain few, whom, though they appeared to be very willing to have the doctrines of the Gospel explained to them, yet to have the necessity of inward, practical and experimental religion pressed upon them, and to be warned of the fatal consequences of a neglect thereof, in so warm and pathetic a manner as was customary for the Rev. S. C. Caldwell to do; this to them was very disagreeable; however, it was borne with some degree of quiet until May, 1802, when the late and glorious revival made its first public appearance in Hopewell. The loud cries of penitents, who were' convinced of their guilt and danger, pleading for mercy, roused all their slumbering prejudices into wakeful activity, Little else but murmurs and reproaches could now he heard from them. Those loud cries continuing occasionally to be heard, and frequently taking place under warm addresses, their worthy pastor bore equal, if not superior blame, consequently their murmur against both the preacher and the penitents became incessant, accompanied with insidious and bitter opposition. Yet this ill treatment, the reverend and worthy Samuel C. Caldwell bore with much patience for several years; but at length, being grieved at heart with their continued and increasing murmurs, at the close of the year 1806, he withdrew from those sons of strife, left them to enjoy their silent Sabbaths, and betook himself to a more peaceful habitation.

Chapter 2

Page 10-23

Descendants of John McKnitt Alexander

Among the early settlers of this particular part of Mecklenburg county, no, name is more prominent, or descendants more numerous than the Alexanders. James Alexander was of Scotch- Irish parentage and lived in Maryland. His first wife was Margaret McKnitt. Their children were, Theophilus, born November 10, 1716; Edith, born January 10, 1718; Keziah, born May 9, 1720; Hezekiah, born January 13, 1722; Ezekiel, born June 17, 1724; Jemima, born January 9th, 1726; Amos, born January 13,1728; John McKnitt, born June 6, 1733; Margaret, born June 6, 1736.

The children of James and Abigail Alexander (second wife) were, Elizabeth, born November 17, 1746; Abigail, born May 4, 1748; Margaret, born April 30, 1750; Josiah born August 3, 1752; Ezekial, born October 21, 1754.

Of this large and interesting family, all of whom no doubt, were patriots, but one lived in the boundary of which we write-viz: John McKnitt Alexander. His name is so conspicuous in the history of his country, that it is necessary to speak more at length of him and his family than many others of equal virtue, but who did not appear at the front so prominently in the stirring times of the last quarter of the Eighteenth Century. John McKnitt Alexander was born and reared in Pennsylvania, dating his birth in 1733; he was 21 years old when he came to Mecklenburg in 1754. He had learned the tailor's trade while a minor, and followed this avocation for a number of years, taking cattle and hides in exchange for work, which he would carry to Philadelphia to find a market. There he would purchase broadcloth and other fine material to make into suits for the more wealthy class of his customers. He was also a surveyor, and it is more than probable that he surveyed the greater part of all the lands taken up by the early settlers. The writer remembers an old road, or rather tile signs of it left by washing rains, surveyed from Alexandriana (the post office and name of his residence) to Mill Grove in Cabarrus county. The roads were made as straight as the nature of the ground would admit. During one of his trips to Pennsylvania, in 1759, he married Jane Bain. He had built a home on what was afterwards known as the Statesville road, nine miles northwest of Charlotte. His house was the general rendezvous for the intelligent and patriotic for many miles in all directions. It was here the patriots were accustomed to meet and consider the condition of the country for months before the political climax was reached. After much deliberate thought these patriotic pioneers agreed to meet in Charlotte as the most central point and give expression to their deliberations, where, on the 20th of May, 1775, the just celebrated Declaration of Independence was promulgated amid the shouts and huzzas of a populace fully prepared to indorse it with their lives, their fortunes and their sacred honor. Mr. Alexander being the Secretary of the Convention, was the custodian of all the documents and papers, including the ever memorable original draft of the Mecklenburg declaration, which was destroyed by the burning of his house in the year 1800. He was one of the most pronounced and active patriots in the State; not only a member of the Colonial Congress, having in charge the welfare of the public, but as a local officer, looking after the interest of the county-he must have been a very busy man. Notwithstanding so much of his time was occupied with public affairs, he did not fail to exercise a healthful influence in organizing Hopewell church, of which he was a Ruling Elder, and for many years was a pillar in the church. After having faithfully served his country for many years, and attaining a ripe old age. He passed away to receive his reward in the year 1817. He was buried in Hopewell graveyard by the side of his wife who had preceded him several years, They raised five children, William Bain, Joseph McKnight, Abigail Bain, Jane Bain and Margaret, all of whom raised families.

William Bain Alexander married Violet, a daughter of Major John Davidson. They lived at the old homestead, where they were very prosperous. He owned 6,000 acres of land, had large herds of cattle, horses, sheep and hogs. The pasturage of this time was almost limitless, where the finest of beef and pork was raised almost without cost. Wool was a prime article of produce, occupying a similar place then to what cotton attained after Whitney's invention of the cotton gin. He was a successful farmer and business man. He was Recorder of Deeds for many years, and did as other officers of the time, carry the papers to his home and do the work there-meeting the people at the court house on Saturdays. His handwriting is well known to-day by the county officers, who handle old papers every day. He was an active member of the Hopewell church, and for many years an Elder. He was Postmaster at Alexandriana for more than half a century; and for the convenience of his neighbors who Jived several miles away, he would carry their mail to church and empty the pouch on n table where it was distributed to the proper owners. At this time comparatively few newspapers were taken, the mail consisting chiefly of letters. The price of letter postage was 25 cents, consequently not many letters were sent through the mails. Envelopes were unknown.

Mr. Alexander and wife were remarkably fortunate in their family. They had fourteen children-seven boys and seven girls - none of whom died until the youngest was twenty-nine years old. But at this writing – 1895 - all have passed away except one, and she is in her ninety-third year. As they were amongst the leading citizens of the Hopewell section and also of the county. a short notice of each is given, to bring this historical sketch within the memory of people now living.

Joseph McKnitt Alexander, the oldest of the children, was born in 1792. He built a home one and a hall miles cast of Hopewell Church, where he operated a farm with success. On this farm he made the brick for Hopewell church-probably the second building that was erected there. The first was built of logs, and was shaded on all sides as to accommodate the large crowds who were in the habit of assembling there during revivals and camp meetings. He married Nancy Cathey, a daughter of Colonel Cathey, near Beattie's Ford. They had but three children, viz: DeWitt Clinton, John Davidson and Violet. The family moved to Maringo county, Alabama in the year 1835. Here the children married, all engaged in farming and became very wealthy. John Davidson is the only one now living. Their offspring are scattered over the South.

Jane Bain Alexander - the eldest daughter - married Captain John Sharp, and moved to Tennessee. They were prosperous, had several children, who were well educated. The family were short lived; and owing to difficulty of traveling and communication at this period we know but little of the family history. A son, William Sharp, was a highly educated physician and accomplished gentleman. He died at an early period. Two sisters, Margaret and Jane, both married men by the name of Hall, raised families of whom we know nothing.

Robert Davidson Alexander, the third child, was born August 9th, 1796. He built a home on the Salisbury road, one mile east of Alexandria, was a successful farmer, a Justice of the Peace, and a Member of the County Court for many years; was a devoted Christian, an Elder in Hopewell church, and was frequently a representative in the Church courts. He married Abigail Bain, a daughter of Rev. Samuel. C. Caldwell, in 1829. They raised five children, three died in infancy, one, Lottie, an accomplished young woman, passed away at the age of 22, in 1878, Four are now living, viz: Rev. S. C. Alexander, D. D., pastor of the Presbyterian Church in Monticello, Ark.; Agnes married Dr. W. B. Fewell, and lives near Rock Hill, S. C., where they enjoy the shady side of life surrounded by a large family; Dr. J, Brevard Alexander built au elegant home six miles north of Hopewell, where he operated a farm and practiced medicine for thirty-five years, except four years from '61 to '65 spent in Confederate States Army. In 1858 he married Miss Annie Lowrie, a daughter of Samuel Lowrie, who lived on the Beattie's Ford road, sixteen miles from Charlotte. They raised six children - Robert is on the farm; Samuel died at the age of 19, while preparing for the ministry. The family moved to Charlotte in 1890, that is, James, Dixie and Annie Lowrie; Lucy married J. H. Halliburton and lives in Durham. Mrs. Alexander died February 21, 1893, and was buried at Gilead by the side of her maternal kindred the Johnston family," She was woman of positive character, and fine mental attainments. She was much esteemed by all her neighbors, His daughter, Dr. Annie Lowrie Alexander, who is now in practice, was amongst the first women physicians of the South. having graduated in Philadelphia in 1884. William Davidson Alexander lives at the old homestead, a successful farmer and influential citizen. He married a daughter of Dr. J. G. M, Ramsey, of Tennessee, and has three sons and one daughter living.

Margaret Davidson Alexander married David Henderson, of Sugar Creek. . They have long since passed away. Three sons and one daughter remain. Dr.]. McKnitt Henderson died twenty years ago. Andrew R. Henderson lives in Gaston county, two miles west of Hopewell church, at which place he holds his membership. Dr. William Bain Henderson moved to Alabama many years ago, where he now resides. Jane married E. C. Davidson, She is now a widow, lives fourteen miles northwest of Charlotte, on the Beattie's Ford road; has five children living, with whom she is spending the evening of her day.

J. Harvey Henderson, the youngest of the family, now resides in Charlotte, pleasantly situated with his daughter and three sons.

Sarah Davidson Alexander never married. She spent her life visiting among her large connection, where she was always a welcome guest. She made several visits to her kindred in Alabama and Tennessee, always on horseback. With a pair of saddle-bags and "poke" hung from the horn of her saddle to carry her clothes, she did not hesitate to take a trip of 500 miles. At the period of which I write the only mode of travel was on horseback. She passed away in 1863.

William Bain Alexander built a home on the headwaters of Long Creek, four miles east of Hopewell. He married Theresa Alexander, a daughter of "Blind" Billy Alexander. They were of the same name, hut were not related. They died many years ago, leaving three children, who are now living within the hounds of Hopewell, with a numerous posterity. Mrs. Alexander inherited from her father an ophthalmic disease which has proved a sore affliction to the fourth generation.

Rebecca married Marshall McCoy and located one mile cast of the church. He was a successful farmer, very popular in his neighborhood, entertained lavishly, and was a deacon in Hopewell. They raised a large and interesting family. But three out of nine children have deceased. The eldest son, John F. McCoy, was missing in the battle of Gettysburg, supposed to have been killed. The other members of the family reside within the boundary of which we write. Mr. McCoy was killed by the explosion of blasting powder at a copper mine, near his house, in 1855. Mrs. McCoy is still living, in her ninety-third year; her physical condition is feeble, but her mind is perfectly clear, and she relates incidents of her past life with wonderful correctness. She is cheerful and happy, awaiting her change.

John Ramsey Alexander learned the wagon-making trade, which he followed for many years, and was also a successful farmer. He married Harriet Henderson, a woman of deep piety, and greatly beloved by her neighbors. They had a beautiful home ten miles north of Charlotte, on the Statesville road. They raised seven children, who were an honor to their parents. The oldest, Amanda, married Rev. '"AI. W. Pharr, D. D., a Presbyterian minister, who was very popular with the people. "Bettie" married Dr. Watson Rankin, of Cabarrus, a fine physician. They raised an interesting family. Nancy moved to Florida and married Capt. Stewart. She is now a widow, in the orange business. Sophia married John Sample and moved to Tennessee, where both deceased without children. Andrew H. married Miss Jennie McLean and moved to Florida. They have two sons and one daughter. Thomas Lafayette began as a clerk in a store in Charlotte in 1852. Married Mary Connon, of Missouri. By close attention to business, he is one of our largest merchants, and possessed of a handsome fortune: His wife died in 1893. Three children survive to cheer him in his declining years. Francis Ramsey, a handsome youth, was captain of a company in the Fifty-sixth Regiment, North Carolina troops. He led his men in many battles for the Confederate cause. On 17th of June, 1864, while leading a charge he was killed, near Petersburg, Va. The old veterans speak of him with profound respect, and say he was the bravest of the brave. His body was brought home and interred in Hopewell graveyard, close by the side of his ancestors, who won imperishable renown nearly a century before in the Revolutionary War. Capt. Frank Alexander was a worthy descendant of such a heroic ancestry. The parents have passed away; and their home is in the hands of strangers.

Elizabeth married Dr. Isaac Wilson, who settled on or near the dividing range that runs north and south, between the Catawba and Rocky river, four miles east of Hopewell. He cultivated a farm and did a large practice, extending over probably one-fourth of the county. He was a member of Hopewell for many years, a very prominent physician, and influential citizen. They had six children. The two youngest - Thomas and Gilbreth, both gave their lives in the cause of the Confederacy. Joseph is a successful farmer near Beattie's Ford. Dr. J. McCamie Wilson has been in constant practice near Davidson College for forty years. James Wilson is a farmer two miles northeast of Hopewell, Isabella, a very bright and intelligent woman, married Andrew Parks, and moved to Statesville, where she recently died. They all reared families and are amongst our best citizens. Mrs. Wilson died of erysipelas during the terrible epidemic in '1845. The doctor passed off in 1886; much esteemed and beloved by his neighbors.

James McKnitt Alexander located and established an excellent farm with all the appurtenances for comfort and a prosperous living, six miles cast of Hopewell. He was an excellent farmer and fond of the chase. He kept good horses and a fine pack of hounds, and frequently indulged in fox hunting, but not to the neglect of his farm. Like all of his brothers and sisters, he was a consistent member of Hopewell church. He married Mary Wilson. They raised a family of six children -only three are now living. He died of typhoid fever in 1855. A few years afterwards his widow married Dixon Kerns, a worthy gentleman of the neighborhood; he also proved a good farmer. They raised four children, but one of whom survives, Mr. and Mrs. Kerns now reside in Iredell county, north of Davidson.

Abigail married Henderson Robinson; prepared a home and farm three miles east of Hopewell; had scarcely begun the race of life when they both fell victims to the terrible scourge of erysipelas that visited the Hopewell section in 1845. This epidemic was fearful in its ravages. The people were almost panic stricken. Deaths were so numerous it was difficult to have the dead decently buried. Isabella married Dr. Calvin Wier. They built a home on the Statesville road five miles east of Hopewell, Her health was always delicate, and soon succumbed to that dread disease, consumption. After her decease Dr. Wier moved to Mississippi, and in a short time passed to the great beyond. No representative succeeding Benj. W. Alexander established a home in sight of the old homestead, six miles east of Hopewell; was a successful farmer and business man for many years a civil officer, member of the county court and colonial of militia. He married Elvira McCoy. They raised four daughters and one son to adult age. The oldest daughter, Jane, married Theophilus Cannon of Cabarrus, and died while young. They left four children. Antoinette married Martin Barringer, and died without issue. Melvina married Rev. Watts. She is now a widow, living with her son in Statesville. Alice, the youngest, married Chalmers Rankin, of Mooresville, where they are happily situated with several children. John McCoy was a brilliant young man, had just finished his junior course in Davidson College, when he was cut off in the bloom of youth. Colonel Alexander and wife continued with us until the clouds of Civil War had passed over, and they quietly and peacefully fell asleep in a full hope of immortal life.

George Washington, the youngest, was married three times, his last wife, Sally Jetton, only left children. They are all living and prove a comfort to an invalid mother. Bain, the oldest son, married Jane Gillespie. They live on the Statesville road near his mother. Joseph and Jetton have not married, and live with their widowed mother, taking care of her. The only daughter – Minnie --married MacCannon, and live in Cabarrus county. Mr. George W. Alexander was an excellent farmer, also a surveyor. Their home is situated on the Tuckesege road, four miles east of Hopewell. Mr. Alexander passed away several years ago. His widow survivors, an invalid - fortunately well cared for by her sons.

Dr. Joseph McKnitt Alexander, second son of John McKnitt Alexander, was born ---- 1774. He was surrounded with the best advantages possible in early life. Every advantage was given to acquire an education; he graduated at Princeton; studied medicine and graduated from the University of Pennsylvania. Nature was prodigal in bestowing her gifts, his mind was not only quick to perceive, but was logical and well trained. He married Dovy Winslow, a daughter of Moses Winslow, a wealthy and educated gentleman of English parentage. A story of those early days is told that Robert Davidson, a son of Major John Davidson, was a favored suitor for the hand of the fair Miss Dovy; that he was so enamored and worshipped so devoutly at her shrine, he wanted others to know of his good fortune in the prospective, and he invited his friend Dr. Joe to visit her with him; but alas for the course of true love, his friend knocked him out the first round and carried off the prize. Dr. Joe met with a sad affliction in the loss of his estimable wife soon after the birth of their only child, which he called for his wife's father Moses Winslow. He and the little son made their home with his brother, William Bain Alexander, for many years, in fact, until Dr. Winslow was married. Dr. Joe's practice was very extensive, covering a large territory. He had certain points or stopping places for the public to know where he could be intercepted. His life was a laborious one, but he had the satisfaction of doing much good to the suffering. As might be expected, he was a member of Hopewell, and after having spent a long life in the service of his fellowmen, he was quietly gathered to his fathers, in the year 1841, in the 67th year of his age.

Dr. Moses Winslow Alexander, a son of Dr. Jos. McKnitt Alexander was born at Alexandriana, the homestead of his grand father, in 1798, May 3d. His mother having died while he was an infant, he was nursed and cared for by his uncle's family, and was one of the family. After he was grown up and educated he studied medicine, adopting the profession of his father, and practiced with him. He married Violet, a daughter of General Joseph Graham. They built a home a short distance west of Alexandriana. He engaged very extensively in farming; also owned and operated a farm in Alabama. They had a large family of children, several of whom died before reaching maturity. Graham and Wistar, with Emily and Eliza, passed away in the bloom of youth. Junius, a very popular young man, fell a victim in the first epidemic of dysentery ever experienced in this section, in 1855. This epidemic continued for two years, partially abating in winter, It is estimated that at least 1,000 persons died with this disease in Mecklenburg county during the warm months of '54 and '55. A peculiarity of the disease was, it was much more fatal in the white race than in the colored.

Hamilton LaFayette was a highly educated gentleman, graduated in Princeton, studied law, and volunteered as a private soldier in cavalry service in the Confederate army. He lived but a short time after the termination of hostilities. Dovy married Rev. H. B. Cunningham, D. D. They lived at Alexandriana, built an elegant house and tilled a small farm. Dr. Cunningham was pastor of Hopewell from 1844 to 1855. They left no children. Isabella married Dr. W. J. Hays, of Lincoln county, an educated and courteous gentleman. He was an elder in Unity church, an earnest friend and advocate of the truth of religion without ostentation. About 1860 they moved to Mecklenburg, and for a few years resided at the homestead of his wife's father. For the last twenty-five years they have resided in Charlotte. They have but one son living, Junius, who is married and lives in Fort Mills, The doctor and his good wife are still with us, enjoying life, surrounded with hosts of friends.

Sophia and her sister, Mrs. Julia Smith (whose husband , died in the service of the Confederacy) live together, in an elegant home on one of the thoroughfares of the city, where they dispense a Christian charity that is appreciated by all good people. They are very popular with both old and young, as evidenced by the hundreds of friends who visit at their home. Alice, one of the most estimable ladies of this large connection, married Dr. G. \V. Graham, one of the most popular gentleman in the city. He does a lucrative practice in his specialty, as an oculist and aurist, They have an elegant home, where they delight to welcome and entertain their friends.

Captain Sydenham B. Alexander, the youngest son, has been more prominently before the public than any other of the family. He graduated in Chapel Hill, and entered the Confederate army as captain of an infantry company, in which he did good service. After the war he was a successful farmer. He purchased a farm three miles west of Charlotte, where he became noted for raising fine stock, especially horses and cattle. He mingled much with the people and was very popular. He was elected several times to the State Senate, where he contributed greatly to the building of a system of good roads, with which his name will always be associated. He was a pronounced Alliance man, and in favor of all Alliance demands, including the restoration of silver as a money metal. He was twice elected to Congress, serving in the House of Representatives four years. He married a Miss Nicholson from the eastern part of the State. His wife died several years ago, leaving six children. His father, Dr. Winslow Alexander, died in 1845, February 27th, being the first victim of the fearful epidemic of erysipelas that was so fatal in the Hopewell section. His mother survived her husband many years, lived to train her children till all had established characters of virtue and usefulness.

Abigail Bain, daughter of John McKnitt Alexander, married Rev. Samuel C. Caldwell, in the year 1792. They lived for a short time on what is known as the Albert Wilson place, seven miles northwest of Charlotte. Mr. Camwell preached at Hopewell and Sugar Creek. Later on he built the brick house one and a half miles northwest of Sugar Creek church. He discontinued his services at Hopewell in the year 1806, a full account of which is given on a former page. They had two children, Thomas and Jane. Soon after, while the children were helpless, their mother was called away. In a few years Mr. Caldwell married Elizabeth Lindsay, of Greensboro. They had seven sons and one daughter.

One of the first wife's children, Dr. D. T. Caldwell, located in Charlotte to practice medicine. He was a good man in every sense of the word, an excellent physician and courteous gentleman, an elder in Sugar Creek. He married Harriet Davidson, daughter of Hon, William Davidson, of Charlotte. They had eight children, but four of whom are now living. Baxter and Alice live together in the old homestead neither married. Sarah Jane married George Donald and lives in Greensboro. Minnie married John Springs Davidson. They live at the old Davidson homestead near Hopewell. Jane, the only daughter of the first wife married Rev. W. S. Pharr. They lived near Ramah Church, where he preached (also at Mallard Creek) for a half a century. They had but one son, the Rev. S. C. Pharr, D. D., a most eloquent preacher. Mrs. Pharr died of consumption when her son was but a small boy. Rev. W. S. Pharr continued until after the close of the Civil War, when he too passed into rest. Rev. Dr. Pharr married Margaret Springs. She is now a widow living with one of her sons. Of Rev. S. C. Caldwell's second wife's eight children five were preachers of the Gospel, two lawyers and one a merchant. As they did not live in the Hopewell boundary, we pass them by.

Jane Bain, daughter of John McKnitt Alexander, married Rev. James Wallace. He preached at Providence church for many years. They had several children, who moved to Alabama in the early part of the present century. Mrs. Wallace when called home was buried in Providence graveyard. Their son James while attending the classical school at Sugar Creek church, taught by Rev. S. C. Caldwell, in 1809, delivered an original speech at the closing of the school, the subject of which was, "The Mecklenburg Declaration of Independence, May 20, 1775." Many of the audience there assembled had been spectators, and some had been signers of the famous document, when it was promulgated in Charlotte. At this time no one would have thought of denying the truth of the transaction when so many living witnesses of the fact were present. Mr. Caldwell, the teacher, was a ripe scholar, had at this time been in the ministry eighteen years, being surrounded by these witnesses, and coming in almost daily contact with some of the signers, and having married a daughter of the venerable secretary of t he convention, it is unreasonable to suppose that he would have sanctioned a speech by his pupil (and nephew) unless he treated his subject fairly and truthfully. The late D. A. Caldwell, a gentleman of fine attainments and much esteemed for his integrity, testified that he was present at the school closing, heard the speech, and that it was approved and endorsed by all present.

Margaret, a daughter of John McKnitt Alexander, married Colonel Alexander Ramsay, of East Tennessee. They lived at the junction of the Holston and French Broad; built an elegant .home and lived in affluence. His home and post office he named Mecklenburg, In honor of his wife's nativity. They raised four children. .His two sons occupied high positions in social and literary life. Dr. James G. M. Ramsay wrote the Annals of Tennessee, which is the standard history of the State. The doctor was an ardent Confederate, and for his patriotism he suffered great loss, by the enemy burning his house and a valuable library.

ALEXANDER, Evan Shelby

(ca.1767-1809)

ALEXANDER, Evan Shelby, (cousin of Nathaniel Alexander), a Representative from North Carolina; born in Mecklenburg County, N.C., about 1767; attended the common schools; was graduated from Princeton College in 1787; studied law; was admitted to the bar and commenced practice in Salisbury, Rowan County, N.C.; member of the State house of commons 1796-1803; trustee of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill 1799-1809; elected as a Republican to the Ninth Congress to fill the vacancy caused by the resignation of Nathaniel Alexander; reelected to the Tenth Congress and served from February 24, 1806, to March 3, 1809; died October 28, 1809.

Source: Biographical Directory of the United States Congress, 1771-Present

Contributed by: Anna Newell

ALEXANDER, Nathaniel

(1756-1808)

ALEXANDER, Nathaniel, (cousin of Evan Shelby Alexander), a Representative from North Carolina; born near Concord, Mecklenburg County, N.C., March 5, 1756; attended the common schools; was graduated from Princeton College in 1776; studied medicine and surgery; served in the Revolutionary War as a surgeon 1778-1782; after independence was established, practiced his profession at the High Hills of Santee in South Carolina; subsequently returned to Charlotte, N.C., and continued practice; member of the State house of commons in 1797; served in the State senate in 1801 and 1802; elected as a Republican to the Eighth and Ninth Congresses and served from March 4, 1803, until November 1805, when he resigned to become Governor; Governor of North Carolina 1805-1807; died in Salisbury, Rowan County, N.C., March 7, 1808; interment in Old Cemetery, Charlotte, N.C.

Source: Biographical Directory of the United States Congress, 1771-Present