Warren A. Thompson facts for kids
Warren A. Thompson (born May 10, 1802 – died July 14, 1891) was an important explorer and one of the first people to settle in Butler County, Alabama. He helped discover new areas and make them home for others.
Exploring Butler County
Warren Thompson joined Captain John H. Watts and Thomas Hill on many trips to explore Butler County, Alabama. He had the special job of naming the many small rivers, called creeks, that they found in the area.
In 1818, he was at Fort Bibb. He also knew Captain William Butler personally. Warren Thompson even saw them off when they left for Fort Dale.
Warren's Early Life
Warren Thompson was born in Clarke County, Georgia. His early life was quite unusual. In 1807, his father passed away unexpectedly. This left the family without money or support. Because of this, Warren and all his brothers and sisters were taken in by different families in the community.
Thomas Hill adopted Warren and raised him. When Thomas Hill moved to the Alabama Territory in 1816, he brought young Warren with him. Warren spent his younger years working hard, driving cattle for his adoptive father.
Growing Up and New Beginnings
Warren stayed with his adoptive mother after Thomas Hill passed away in 1821. He remained with her until she also passed away in 1822. By then, Warren was an adult. Even though he only weighed 98 pounds, he was very strong and tough for his size. He was even able to wrestle down Betsy Donaldson, who was known for her strength at that time!
Afterward, he worked for Dave Elder as an overseer, which meant he managed workers on a farm. He stayed in this job for six years.
Family Life
On December 19, 1829, Warren Thompson married Mary Danvis. Mary's father, Thomas Hayes, did not approve of the marriage. So, Warren had to secretly take Mary from her home at night to marry her!
Warren and Mary had nine children together: Albert, Mary, James, Arvilla, Franklin, David, Calvin, John, and Pinkney. Supporting such a large family was a big challenge. Warren later stopped farming so his family could live in a healthier place. He then became a captain of a company in the county. In 1840, he joined the Primitive Baptists, a type of church.
