James N. Greer is a native of Lincoln County, this State, his birth occurring December 15, 1818. His father was a North Carolinian and came to Tennessee when a young man, locating in Lincoln County. Here he married Delia McElroy, daughter of Thomas McElroy, a farmer, and to this marriage were born seven sons and four daughters, James N. being the third child. In 1822 the father moved to West Tennessee, which was then very sparsely inhabited, and settled in Madison County. He had previously explored and surveyed much of the surrounding country on a former visit. He followed farming for a livelihood, and died in 1845. The mother was a North Carolinian, and was an exemplary woman. Her death occurred in 1868. James N. is also a farmer, and has been quite successful. September 15, 1858, he was united in marriage with Miss Henrietta, daughter of Augustus Askew, and to this union the following children have been born: Delia E., Robert L., Henrietta E., Virginia C. and Neophlet A. and two that died. The mother was born November 27, 1834, and died December 18, 1880. Mr. Greer is a Democrat, and voted for Henry Clay for President. He opposed secession, but finally went with his State. He owns over 600 acres of land at Oakfield Station, seven miles from Jackson. He is comfortably located, and is a good citizen.

Goodspeeds History of Tennessee