By: Jonesborough Genealogical Society
Tipton, James Ireland, son of Samuel Tipton and Susannah Reneau Tipton, born October 14, 1792, Carter County, Tennessee. He was a life-long resident of Elizabethton. His grandfather was John Tipton, who home was restored on the CatBird Branch of Sinking Creek. James Tipton was named for an old Baptist preacher, James Ireland of Shenandoah County, Virginia.
James I. Tipton is given the honor or organizing the Buffalo Creek Church.
As early Treasurer’s book, 1834-35, kept by Michael Hyder, lists his contributions. He was a circuit rider, travelling different places to conduct services. He was baptized by Thomas J. Wright in 1841. He was a Christian Church preacher who baptized 414 people.
His first wife was Nancy Patterson, whom he married in 1812. They had five children. His second wife was Joanna Gourley, daughter of James Gourley and Mary Patton Gourley. They had several children.
The inscription on his tombstone says, “I am now ready to be offered.”