Although Turniptown was always home to the early Lanning families, the families moved into and out of mill towns to support their families. In 1900, Andrew's family was living in Rome, Floyd County, Georgia when the census was taken in June. In 1910 Andrew was in Canton, Cherokee County, Georgia with his family when the census was taken.

When WWII came along in the early 1900's, all young men were required to register. On June 5, 1917, Andrew registered with the following information:

Age: 26 - Address: Gatlin, GA – Farmer - Born: May 25, 1891 –Single - Born: Natural born – Caucasion - Born: Gatlin, GA, USA - Eyes: Blue - Hair: L. Brown

In 1918, Andrew married Minnie COCHRAN, the daughter of William (Bill) COCHRAN and Mary ORTON. They were married by Rev. Henry Cantrell on August 9, 1918 in Gilmer County, GA. Minnie was born May 15, 1889 and died in Gilmer County, GA on January 12, 1938.

When the 1920 census was taken, Andrew and his new family were nowhere to be found. According to older members of the family, Andrew had been drafted, went to the Army but deserted and returned to the hills of Turniptown where he hid out for a long time.

Andrew continued to move in and out of the Turniptown area, following the footsteps of his Father as well as his brothers and sisters. He owned property in Turniptown and until much later in life, he held on to it. In 1922 Francis Lanning sold to Minnie Lanning portions of # 321 7th District and in 1927 Minnie Lanning sold to R.C. Stover # 48 & # 49 11th Dist. 2nd Sec.

On January 22, 1956, Andrew faced the death no parent wants to face – that of a child. Homer Andrew LANNING died at the VA Hospital in Decatur, Georgia. He was returned to Gilmer County and buried in the Turniptown Baptist Church Cemetery.

By July 31, 1975, at the age of 84, Andrew had faced his share of death and trials. He outlived his parents but he watched as death claimed his children and grandchildren. Late in life, he was afflicted with diabetes and lost both legs. Now on this date, his turn with fate and the death angel has come. Andrew LANNING was buried in the Turniptown Baptist Church Cemetery in Gilmer County, GA next to his beloved Minnie.

Sources: Bill Griffin
"The Lannings of Turniptown Road"