Ezra R. Patterson is one of five children of William and Sarah M. (Branch) Patterson. He is of Irish lineage and was born in Perry County, Tenn., February 8, 1846. His early days were spent on a farm and in attending the common schools. During the late war he served about nine months in the Ninth Tennessee Cavalry Confederate States Army, under Col. Biffie, and was paroled at Selma, Ala. October 24, 1867, he wedded Martha M. Horner, daughter of John V. Horner, and to their union were born the following children: Emma Elnora, Viola Josephine, Laura Lee, William V., Cora Elizabeth, Robert E., Jesse Harvey and Elbert Foster. Mrs. Patterson was born in Perry County, Tenn., December 7, 1845. Mr. Patterson is a Democrat in his political views, and is the owner of 200 acres of excellent land about thirteen miles from Linden. His farm is devoted chiefly to the production of peanuts, but he also raises the cereals to some extent. His father was born in Perry County, May 25, 1818, and was twice married, our subject being born to his first marriage. He died at his home near Tom Creek, June 15, 1865. His second wife was Sallie Nix, by whom he had six children. Our subject's mother was born on the 15th of December, 1819, and died June 28, 1852.