Thomas B. Reed

Thomas Black Reed was a State Senator who practiced law in Huntsville for many years, and for a few years taught school. One of his students was "Bloody Bill" Anderson. Reed was born in Guilford County, North Carolina July 20, 1819 to John Denny Reed and Elizabeth (nee Jenkins) Reed who brought him to Howard County as a baby. His grandfather Henry was immigrant from Ireland who served in the Revolutionary War. His father, John served in the war of 1812. The family moved to what would become Randolph County in 1822. He married Rachel Eliza Denny on Dec 14, 1855, and they had the following children, John Henry Reed, James Denny Reed, Elizabeth (Betty) Reed, Rachel Eliza (Lida) Reed, and Anna Maud Reed. He attended school in Randolph County, and graduated from the University of Missouri in 1847 where he was the valedictorian of his class. He taught school for two years after graduating, and studied law in Huntsville, first with Robert Wilson, and then with Judge Burkhartt. He was admitted to the bar in 1851. He went on to practice law in Huntsville becoming a partner with Alexander Denny until the outbreak of the Civil War. He enlisted in the 9th Cavalry Missouri State Militia in 1862. While in service he became Captain of Company G, and served three years. He served as Provost Marshall of the District of North Missouri, then as Provost Marshall of the District of Rolla. Finally, he served as judge advocate of the military court at Macon, Missouri. After the war, he was elected to the State Senate in 1865, and reelected in 1868 serving until 1872. Upon finishing his term in the State Senate, Reed returned to Huntsville to practice law. He also went into coal mining with W.T. Rutherford, and was active socially serving on the Board of Directors for the Huntsville Fair for many years. During his time practicing law he was partners with Alexander Denny, Arthur Terrell, and William A. Hall. Thomas Reed died October 5, 1899 and is buried in the Huntsville City Cemetery.