Biography of James A. Anderson

James A. Anderson, Lawyer, was born January 19, 1832 in Garrard County, Ky. His father, James Anderson was a Virginian, came to this State in 1798 with his parents, and was a farmer. His mother, Sallie Edmondson was a native of Garrard County and daughter of John Edmondson, one of the pioneers from Virginia. James A. Anderson was educated chiefly at Lancaster Academy. In 1853, he began to write in the offices of the Clerk of the Garrard County and Circuit Courts; was so engaged for two years, passing his leisure in reading law; in 1855 went to Richmond and continued his law study under Major S. Turner; in the following year was admitted to the bar; in 1857 began the practice of his profession at Lancaster, associated with Mr. Turner, his preceptor; continued that connection until 1861; in 1863 was first appointed and thereafter elected County Attorney; was re-elected in 1867, holding that office nine years. At the Presidential election preceding the war he voted for Bell and Everett, and was county elector on that ticket. He is now identified with the Democrat party. He is prominently connected with the Masonic fraternity; stands high in his profession and is noted for his integrity of character; is strictly a self-made man, and an example of what can be accomplished by industry and a fixed purpose of mind. Mr. Anderson was married November 20, 1860 to Sophia L. Dunlap, native of Shelby County, Kentucky and daughter of Thomas G. and Catharine Dunlap.

Biographical Encyclopedia of Kentucky J. M. Armstrong and Company, 1878, Cincinnati, Ohio.