Benjamin F. Earnest, farmer and stock raiser, was born where he now lives on Nollichucky River, Greene County, August 3, 1821, the son of Peter and Ruth (Fain) Earnest. The father was born near Guilford Courthouse, N. C., February 27, 1777, and died February 17, 1862. Henry Earnest, the grandfather, came from North Carolina to where our subject now lives, in April, 1777. The mother was born in Washington County, January 23, 1784, and died July 23, 1853. Of her five sons and seven daughters two of the latter and one of the former still live. Our subject was reared on the farm and educated at the, Tusculum College, and when his father died took charge of the farm, and has so continued ever since, also engaged in milling. He has been successful in both. In December, 1868, he married Mary M. Rhea, of Blountville, Sullivan County. Samuel R., Nicholas P. and Ellen L. are their only children. He is a Master Mason, and a man who has preferred private life.
