From the History of Hocking Valley Ohio, pub. 1883

G. E. ATKINSON was born in Southampton County, Va., July 9, 1842. He is a son of James and Margaret (Scharbrough) Atkinson, now living in Putman County, W. Va. Mr. Atkinson moved from Virginia to Belmont County, Ohio, when he was four years old, and from there to West Virginia in 1850. In 1852 he moved back to Ohio, Athens County, and in 1856 came to Vinton County, where he has since lived. He enlisted Sept. 30, 1864, and served one year. He was in Sherman's raid through Georgia and was discharged June 30, 1865, at Louisville, Ky. Jan. 26, 1864, he was married to Sarah M. Keller, who died April 1, 1872. They had five children, of whom four are yet living - Charles E., Calvin
E., Lydia E. and George. Nora died at the age of three years and eight months. Aug. 22, 1873, Mr. Atkinson was married to Acha A. Reynolds. They have four children - Helas L., Estella, Homer V. and Jennie V. Mr. Atkinson joined the Masonic order some time ago and soon afterward became a Master Mason. He is also a member of the Grand Army of the Republic, No. 223, and is Quartermaster of the same. He belongs to the Methodist Episcopal church. pp. 1291-1292