archie evans
1871-1942
Life Story
Laid to Rest at Evans Cemetery – Newton County, Mississippi
Archie Evans was born on May 5, 1871, in Newton County, Mississippi to Agustus (Gus) Evans (1847-1926) and Amanda Brantley.
Marriage and Family Life
Around 1895, Archie married Cora Walker (1875–1929). Their union became the foundation of a large and close-knit family. Together they raised the following children:
- Shelby Evans (1893–1976)
- Dudley Evans (1897–1988)
- Riley Evans (1901–1973)
- Ida Mae Evans (1905–1990)
- Leavy Evans (1909–1983)
- Elbert Evans (1907–1999)
After the passing of Cora in 1929, Archie continued to support his family while remaining rooted in the local community.
In addition to his children with Cora, Archie was also the father of:
- Iley Jane Evans (1923–2004), born to Lilla Mitchell (1883–1923).
Work and Education
Archie spent his life working as a farmer, a vital role in rural Newton County during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Farming provided stability and livelihood for his household and anchored him within the agricultural life shared by many African American families of the region.
According to the 1940 U.S. Census, Archie reported that he had completed the 6th grade of elementary school, a notable level of education for a Black man born in 1871 in rural Mississippi.
Later Years and Passing
Archie remained in Newton County throughout his lifetime, surrounded by children, grandchildren, and extended kin who continued the Evans legacy for generations. He passed away on December 30, 1942, at the age of 71 from heart disease, and was laid to rest at the Evans Cemetery.
Though many details of his early life remain unknown, Archie’s legacy is preserved through the lives of his descendants and the deep roots he planted in the Altare and Mt. Moriah communities. His story represents the resilience, dignity, and perseverance of African American families who shaped the history of Newton County.
Resting Place
Photos/Albums
Sources
- 1900 Federal Census
- 1910 Federal Census
- 1920 Federal Census
- 1930 Federal Census
- 1940 Federal Census
- Mississippi, U.S., Index to Deaths, 1912-1943
- U.S., Find A Grave Index, 1600s-Current
- Scott County Times, Shelby Evans Obituary, Wed, May 19, 1976 ·Page 12
- U.S., Social Security Applications and Claims Index, 1936-2007
- U.S., World War II Draft Cards Young Men, 1940-1947
Leave a Reply