Richard (Dick) King (July 4, 1849 -- September 28, 1948) and Rachel Ellis (March 20, 1849 -- February 1, 1930), both born into slavery in Alabama, were brought to this area prior to the Civil War. Married in 1869, they were the parents of 10 children, 9 of whom lived to adulthood. Respected members of the Hopewell Community, the Kings operated a grist mill, a syrup mill, and a commissary. Am early pastor of Hopewell Missionary Baptist Church, Mr. King also served on the school board.