| Carter Stamper |
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Reprinted from 1948
Renfro Revelation by S L Renfro CARTER STAMPER: He was a young man and was an unusually smart fellow. He knew something about every issue of the hour. He was bookkeeper for the Taylor & Crate Lumber Co and he likewise listened and entered into these discussions. He left Williamsburg and located in Eastern Kentucky County and studied law, published local newspaper, was elected to county office, and in a very short time ws prominent in local and state politics. His stay in Williamsburg won for him the heart of a 'Williamsburg girl' whom he married and they made their home in the above mentioned Eastern Kentucky County Seat town. The one thing I remember and the thing that stands out was the stinging rebuke of one of our group when Mr Stamper was asked a question. While he was pondering the answer, the youngster remarked if you don't know, I can tell you. Mr Stamper replied, 'I never ask questions on matters I know.' It was not the words that cut, it was the way it was said. I venture this young man never again asked a question just to get the answer himself. Carter Stamper came up quick in life. His unusual ability with his agressiveness made his rise fast, but providence stepped into the scene and he was no more. No one could predict what his future might have been. He was the type of young man who had what it took to go places. It is altogether possible had he lived he would have been a State or National leader ... My knowledge of these three men was brief only for just a few months as I left for the country where I took over a country store which I ran for more than ten years, I knew very little of their lives after I left. It all ended with the drug store discussions .... When I returned to Williamsburg several years later they were gone and forgotten by larger part of our citizens; but not by me. The things I heard and saw in those brief months have been part of my life, I shall never forget .... THE THREE WISE MEN. Note: The other two men written about in the article were Colonel P Watt Hardin and W T (William) Underwood.) If anyone would like the remainder of the article, let me know and I can scan it for you...GF |