JAMES HORTON, deceased, was one of the prominent pioneers of Dallas county, Texas. He was a native of Virginia, and a son of Enoch Horton. In 1845 he came to Dallas county and settled on a tract of 320 acres of wild land, which has since been known as the James Horton headright. He at once began the work of improving it, and making a home. From time to time he acquired other property, and at his death was the owner of an estate consisting of 4,000 acres of land.
Mr. Horton was married in 1851 to Miss Jane Phillips, a daughter of Nimrod Phillips, and after his marriage settled on the homestead, where he followed farming. Previous to his marriage, he made the overland journey to California, going on horseback in 1849. He was successfully engaged in mining there for a time, returning to Texas in 1851. Until 1857 he followed farming exclusively. At that time he built the Eagle Ford gristmill, in which he was interested the rest of his life. He and his wife were the parents of eight children, three of whom are still living: James, Nuck, and Fanny, wife of R.M. Scripture of this county. He was bereaved by the loss of his wife in 1869. Subsequently he was united in marriage with Mrs. King, whose maiden name was Morton. By her he had two children, and of these, one (Frank) is still living. Mr. Horton departed this life in 1875.
James Horton, son of the above named gentleman, was born in Dallas county, Texas, August 13, 1856. He was reared on his father's farm, remaining on the old homestead until his marriage, which event occurred in 1879, the lady of his choice being Miss Laura Carter. She is a native of Texas, and a daughter of Milton and Sarah (Davis) Carter, who were among the pioneers of Dallas county. After his marriage Mr. Horton settled on his present farm, which comprises 250 acres. Besides this he has other property, having a landed estate consisting of 800 acres. His post office address is Eagle Ford.
Mr. and Mrs. Horton are the parents of seven children, namely: Nuckie, Willis (deceased), Ridge, C.B., James, Grant and Lizzie. Mrs. Horton is a member of the Baptist Church. Politically, Mr. Horton affiliates with the Democratic party.
