R. R. Harriss: Among the early settlers of Hardeman County was James B. Harriss, a native of Kentucky, born in 1810. His educational advantages were very meager, but by coming in contact with the business world he became well informed in all practical affairs. When young, he came to this county and here met and married Mary Robb, also a native of Kentucky, born in 1819. They had eleven children, seven of whom are now living. He was a Democrat in politics, and had the honor of holding several county offices. For six years he was sheriff, was also county court clerk, and magistrate. His chief calling in life was farming, though for about ten years he was interested in merchandising. Although he started in life on a small beginning; he was successful and at the time of his death, which occurred in 1877, was the owner of 2,400 acres of land. Six years afterward the mother followed him. Of the seven surviving children, two sons are in Arkansas, one son in Texas and two sons and two daughters in this county. One of the daughters, Ann. C., is the wife of William R. Kearney, the other daughter, Ophelia, is the wife of William A. Franklin. The two sons living in this county are Robert R. and Charles H., both born and reared in this county, and are among its rising young farmers. Both are Democrats in politics. Few families have lived in Hardeman County longer then the Harrisses and few deserve a more honorable mention in the pages of its history.
Source: “The Goodspeed Publishing Co., History of Tennessee, 1886”