Castro County Texas - Family Story, copyright 1981, Page 285
Note: Where necessary, minor corrections have been made in this posting.

J. A. (Arch) Johnson

In 1898, Arch Johnson moved with his wife, May Slover Johnson, to Nazareth in Castro County. They were the parents of nine children: Claude, Minnie, Vera, Myrtle, Willie, Helen, J.A., Jr; Wilbert, and Mary Wanda.

Arch Johnson was an early day land buyer. He bought and sold land in different parts of the county, and prospered as a good business man. He also helped organize the First State Bank.

In 1926, when the C. T. Herring Estates opened up the original Flagg Ranch to be sold in small farms, Arch was the exclusive agent for the sale. He sold it to real good people and some of the original families still live on these farms. These sales caused the population of Castro County to multiply rapidly and has given the county some of the most prosperous farmers in this area.

Arch was known as one of the kindest, most generous men of his time. It is a known fact that he would pull off his shirt and give it to someone less fortunate than himself. He was a good father, neighbor, and a real friend.

Mrs. Johnson was a kind neighbor, a refined and religious woman. She instilled into her children the better things in life. All who knew her had high respect for her.

In 1918, Arch was elected Sheriff of Castro County, serving two terms. He then served as Deputy Sheriff under John Flanagin. Arch and his family lived in Castro County most of their lives. Mrs. Johnson lived in Lubbock a few years in order to send the younger children to college. She passed away January 3, 1966. Arch lived the rest of his life in Castro County. He passed away September 22, 1945. They are buried in Castro Memorial Gardens Cemetery. By: Velma Woodburn