Benjamin F. Howard was born in Henderson County, Tenn., February 5, 1826, son of William and Ursula (Hinson) Howard, both natives of Anson County, N.C. The father removed to Tennessee in 1825, where he died in 1858. Benjamin F. was reared on a farm in his native county, and secured a fair English education. After he attained his majority he farmed for himself, and in 1874 came to Jackson and engaged in the livery business, and has continued to the present time. He has a large transfer and drayage business. July 29, 1853, he married Julia F. Timberlake, of Henderson County, and nine living children are the result of their union. Mr. Howard was a Democrat in politics, although he was formerly an old line Whig, In August, 1881, he was elected magistrate of the Fifteenth District, filling the office faithfully to the present. Mr. Howard is one of Jackson's best known and most highly respected citizens, and it is his chief delight in his declining years to entertain his friends by many interesting reminiscences of "ye olden time." Benjamin J. Howard, his son, was born in Henderson County, December 31, 1859, and was reared on a farm. When about twelve years old he was brought to Jackson and was here educated. He was in the livery business with his father until August, 1886, when he was elected to the circuit clerk's office, and has filled the same very efficiently. November 10, 1881, he married Nina E., daughter of Maj. W. D. Robinson. They have three children, Sadie, John W. and Henry. Mr. Howard is one of the representatives of the young Democracy in Madison County, and is a reliable citizen and popular official.

Goodspeeds History of Tennessee