WILLIAM  H "WILL" PURSLEY

WORSHIPFUL MASTER

SPRING HILL MASONIC LODGE

1873

 

William H Pursley was the son of David & Elizabeth Harriett Pursley of the Abbeville District of South Carolina.  His parents migrated to Tennessee in the early 1830s and to Hempstead Co Arkansas by 1841.   Seventeen years later Will Pursley arrived in Navarro Co. Texas where he initially purchased 1800 acres and added more from time to time.  

 

The 1870 Census listed William Pursley, born 1827 Arkansas.   His wife was “A M” born 1839 Arkansas.    Children were:  Dau “S” -1860..George 1861..Dau “E” 1863..son “J” 1865..dau “A” 1869.     His wealth was well above average in the county.

 

Will Pursley served his community well as county commissioner, postmaster, and owner of a general store.  It was Will Pursley who donated land for two Pursely School sites and  the Cemetery.

 

His two brothers, James and George Pursley, and a sister, Sarah, who married Samuel L Coker, arrived in Navarro Co. 1858-1866.    All three brothers served in the CSA Army.

 

Will Pursley had, at least, two daughters.    Sarah Pursley married George W. Ross.  Janie Pursley married Samuel A Ross.   George and Samuel Ross were sons of Dr. Samuel A &  Thankful Jane Anderson Ross