Sampson Williams

Sampson Williams is regarded as the founding father of Jackson County and its first citizen. In a 1789 engagement with Indians in the Cumberland settlement, Andrew Jackson served under Captain Williams' command, and the two later became close friends. Williams was appointed sheriff of Davidson County on December 15, 1790, operated a ferry at the crossing of the Cumberland, commanded Fort Blount in late 1793, served as a state senator, built early roads, and established at least two schools.

Tennessee · United States