Week 13 The Old Home Stead
In the 1850 census we find a R. Walker working as a farmer Southern Division Marshall Mississippi. He was about 20 years old and listed along with a William J Pea, who was also farming. Helton Rutherford Walker was my 3rd great grandfather and he may have also been teaching during this time.
On April 26, 1854 he marries Esther Elizabeth Thornton (1837-1908) Esther was born in Lawrence Co Alabama but had been living in Hickman County Tennessee. After they married they settled and are found in the 1860 census in Dickson County, TN. Rutherford was a school teacher and Esther was a homemaker.
Helton Rutherford Walker served in the War Between the States. Enlisting on December 17, 1861. He was part of the 48th “Voorhies” Reg (B&G), Tennessee Volunteers and on February 16, 1862 he was taken captive at Ft Donelson. Granted early release he served the CSA for the duration of the war until on February 20, 1865 he mustered out. Known for his “Come on boys!” cry when he would lead a charge.
By 1870 we find Helton and his family living in Pinewood Ward 6, Hickman Tennessee. The Older children worked in the Cotton Mill and he was farming. Between the year 1871 and August 1872 they moved southern Missouri taking advantage of the Homestead Act. They would have traveled by wagon crossing the Mississippi on their way. The move proved to be a good one for the Walker family.
Staying true to the profession of faith he made in 1853 Helton Rutherford established Walkers Chapel Church in 1873 on his land and was the first minister. Helton Rutherford and Esther Elizabeth donated land across the street from the church for a cemetery. They and many Walker descendants are buried in Walker’s Chapel Cemetery.
I have not visited the Chapel yet I feel a connection to this place. I even have the directions for when we make the trip to the ol homestead of my 3rd Great Grandparents and to Walker’s Chapel.
From Willow Springs, Missouri, take Hwy. 60 east from interchange go about 7 miles to Hwy. V turn right (south), from Mountain View go west on Hwy 60 about 5 miles to V and turn left (south) go 2 mile turn left (east) on County road 2980, go .1 mile cemetery will be on the left. Cemetery is active with 211 graves.