The J. L. Douglas Family

By Annella Douglas Park

Near the middle of the 18th century, Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Pickens Douglas and baby, James, migrated from Selma, Alabama, to the present site of Bullard, Texas. They brought a number of slaves with them and purchased several hundred acres of land. They built a large two-story home, which was called "Douglas Mansion," and were the parents of ten children.

James Loftin Douglas came to Jacksonville in 1873, and started his mercantile business. He was married first to Janie Holt of Overton. They had one child, Janie, who in later years, married Everett Gragard, Sr.

After his first wife's death, J. L. married Belle Trible of Rusk in 1881. They had seven children, including Annella (Mrs. E. S. Park), Pauline (Mrs. W. Downes Bolton), Mae Belle (Adams), Joe P., James L., Haden and H. A. (Jack). All have been lifetime residents of Jacksonville, except Dr. James (Jim), who was a dentist in Kemp for over 50 years. He died recently.

J. L. Douglas was, in all probability, the first postmaster of Jacksonville, the mail being handled in one corner of his store. He was an alderman (now called a councilman) when the Jacksonville charter was drawn up and served for many years. He also was on the three-man school board in 1890.

His mercantile business was located first on Main Street. Later, it was moved to the building where Lynell's now is located (see picture). There he labored more than 50 years, retiring in 1931, when his business was sold to 3 Beall Brothers 3.

J. L. Douglas passed away in 1933 at the age of 81. He was a loyal pioneer member of the Presbyterian Church and a long-time Mason.

Mrs. E. S. Park, Mrs. Downes Bolton, Mrs. Mae Belle Adams and H. A. (Jack) Douglas all continue to reside in Jacksonville, as do several other descendants.

J. L. Douglas store about 1890.

J. L. Douglas with his children and grandchildren.