Thomas E. Riddle (1838-1934) came to Texas from Tennessee as a young man and was engaged in farming and ranching while studying medicine. Long hard work prepared him to take and successfully pass the medical examinations. He proudly "hung out his shingle" and framed his certificate for his office in Milam County. His treatment included medicinal aids and prayer. He prepared many of his medicines from plants, herbs and roots and carried these with him in his saddle bag as his familiar figure moved among early day residents. Long vigils faithfully fulfilled the Hippocratic oath he took. Dr. Riddle served in the Confederate Army with McCord's Texas Cavalry, Company F. He was a life-long member of the Baptist Church and he was a Mason. Dr. Riddle probably served Rockdale and its surrounding territory longer than any other doctor in the history of the town. His death occurred in 1934 and he was buried in the Riddle Cemetery which is located in the southeastern part of Rockdale, Texas.

Bibliography: Rockdale: From Apaches to Aluminum, A Centennial publication 1874-1974.