William Henry ("Buck") Johnson (1808–1889): A Life Rooted in Southern Traditions

William Henry Johnson, affectionately known as "Buck," was born on June 3, 1808, in Jasper County, Georgia, into a family steeped in the legacy of the early American South. The son of Nicholas Johnson and Nancy Tyler, Buck grew up in a household that reflected the pioneering spirit of his time. His family moved frequently, contributing to the development of frontier communities in the expanding United States.

In 1832, Buck married Mary Polly Wise in Jasper, Georgia. Their union marked the beginning of a robust family, with Buck and Mary raising numerous children who carried forward their parents’ values of resilience and community. Among their children were William David Johnson, Anne June Johnson, and Andrew Jackson Johnson, all of whom contributed to the rich history of the Johnson lineage.

Buck’s life was deeply intertwined with the agricultural and economic growth of the South. By the 1840s, his family had relocated to Alabama, where Buck continued his work as a farmer and community leader. The Johnson household played a pivotal role in the fabric of Southern society during a time of significant change and challenge.

By the late 19th century, Buck and his family had settled in Damascus, Scott County, Mississippi, reflecting the migration patterns of many Southern families seeking new opportunities. Buck’s later years were marked by the legacy of his children, many of whom pursued paths that exemplified the Johnson family’s commitment to hard work and dedication.

William Henry Johnson passed away on August 23, 1889, in Damascus, Mississippi, at the age of 81. He was laid to rest in Damascus, leaving behind a legacy of perseverance and family dedication. Buck’s life serves as a testament to the strength and determination of those who shaped the American South during its formative years.

Burial at Damascus Cemetery

Coordinates: 32.55170, -89.38860