Born on September 28, 1828, in Lawrence County, Alabama. He attended the "celebrated school" of Professor Tutwiller in La Grange, Georgia, graduated in 1847, and then taught mathematics and languages at the school. In 1851 he started his study of law in the office of a Judge Townes in Tuscumbia, Alabama. The next year he moved to Texas and settled in Fairfield.
After the first battle of Manassas (or Bull Run) in July 1861,he organize the Seventh Texas Infantry, of which he was made colonel.
Killed in action during the battle of New Market Road, near Richmond on October 7, 1864.