I am trying to find information on my great great grandfather, William L. Montgomery, and his wife Mary Creath. He lived in Shelby County in 1850 and owned four slaves. I am trying to find dates and places of birth for each, and any other available information about their lives and that which would enable me to trace back my Montgomery ancestors as far as possible.I have been referred to the Shelby County Public Library History Department for further research, but was wondering if anyone on this board could assist me, as time and funds prevent me from traveling to Memphis at the present time. Any suggestions to expedite research once I am able to travel would be very much appreciated as well.

I live in Memphis and I'd be glad to try to find something for you, but I would need a little more information to start with. How do you know they were in Shelby County in 1850? From the census?

Shari

Many thanks for your response to my message. According to my source, Timothy D. Hudson of Union Parish, La., the 1850 census does indicate that William L. Montgomery and Mary Creath lived in Shelby County in 1850s and owned four slaves 'and a rather valuable plantation.' I'd be curious to know where the plantation was and any information that would enable me to trace William and Mary back further. Many thanks for your help!

I believe you are looking for William L. Montgomery who married Mary A. Jones in 1845 in Shelby County. The mother of Mary A. Jones was Mary A. (Waller) Creath. I am related through the Creath line. There is a property transfer in 1853 from Henry T. Jones (the father of Mary A.) to William L. Montgomery of 104 acres along the Wolf River in what was then known as Cordova, TN.

Check out www.register.shelby.tn.us

Thanks for this info. Could I contact you directly? I would like to get more information on the Creath line - I have none. Also, do you have a copy of the Wolf River land transfer? I'd like to see it. Thanks, Shep