Franklin Columbus Woodard

(April 1, 1847 -- January 31, 1911) Alabama native Franklin Columbus Woodard settled in this area with his parents about 1850. After being educated as a teacher, Woodard graduated from medical school in 1887 and later moved his family to Grapeland to start his medical practice. In 1898 Woodard was ordained a Baptist minister. A prominent civic leader and mason, he served terms as mayor and school board president. Twice married, he was the father of fifteen children.