John H. Freeling, farmer, was born in Madison County, Tenn., October 10, 1826. His father, J. H. Freeling, was born in New Jersey, but was reared in North Carolina. He was married in the latter State to Lucy Holmes, and by her became the father of five sons and five daughters - our subject being the seventh member of the family. The father was a prominent and wealthy citizen, and for some time was sheriff of Rowan County, N.C. He came to Tennessee in 1825, and settled in Madison County. He was a farmer, and died in 1843. His wife died in Hardeman County in 1880. Their son, John H., received a common school education, and has followed farming through life. He served a short time in the Confederate Army as a member of Col. Wilson's cavalry, but was discharged for disability. He was married in Madison County, February 3, 1847, to Miss Nancy Carrington, and by her became the father of two sons, John W. and Joseph S., who are practicing physicians: the former at McNairy Station, and the latter at Benton, Mo. Mrs. Freeling was born near Nashville, in 1827, and died at the homestead in Madison County November 4, 1870. Mrs. Julia Exum became Mr. Freeling's second wife. She was born in Arkansas, January 3, 1844, and is a daughter of John F. Wilson, and by Mr. Freeling became the mother of one son, Charles Henry. One son was born to her marriage with Mr. Exum, John R., who is attending college at Jackson. Mr. Freeling is a Mason, and he and wife are members of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. He owns 450 acres of land, 320 being in the home place.

Goodspeeds History of Madison Co / Tennessee