Deatherage, Nathan B. (1843-1932) | Eastern Kentucky University - Special Collections and Archives

NATHAN B. DEATHERAGE was born on the 17th of December, 1843, in Madison County, Ky., and is a son of Amos and Susan G. (Lipscomb) Deatherage to whom five sons and three daughters were born, of whom Nathan B. is the eldest now living. Nathan B. Deatherage was reared on a farm and received a common English education.

In September, 1862, he enlisted in Company B, Ninth Kentucky Confederate Cavalry Regiment, and was in all the engagements of the regiment until captured in Ohio. He was a prisoner one month at Camp Chase, and nearly nineteen months at Camp Douglas. When exchanged he was sent to Richmond, Va., but was one day late in reaching that point for the exchange and was sworn not to take up arms; before another exchange was made, Gen. Lee has surrendered, after which Mr. Deatherage walked from Virginia to Mt. Sterling, KY., returning to his home in Madison County, where he resumed his occupation of farming.

In 1876 he was elected sheriff of Madison County; commenced the duties of his office in January, 1877, and was re-elected in 1878. After the expiration of his second term he returned to his farm. in 1884, he made the race again and was elected and re-elected in 1886.

He was united in marriage November 10, 1865, to Mary A. Oldham, daughter of O. and Sydonia (Noland) Oldham. His wife died in July, 1869, a member of the Christian Church. He married his second wife, Mary E. Noland, September 24, 1872. She is a daughter of Nathan and Margaret (Broaddus) Noland, who were both natives of Madison County. Mr. Deatherage and wife are members of the Christian Church, and in politics he is an active Democrat.

Adapted from Kentucky: A History of the State, Perrin, Battle, Kniffin, 4th ed., 1887, Madison County.