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Comrade William Ferrol Black was born near Waverly, Tenn., on June 6, 1846. His parents William and Jane Teas Black, moved to the Solomon Mill neighborhood, Fayette County, in 1851, and from there to Bellemont and finally to Stanton Haywood County, in 1860. In June, 1862, he joined Company B, 7th Tennessee Cavalry, then encamped near Holly Springs. J. P. Russell was captain; H. P. Sales, first lieutenant; and his brother, R. J. Black, second lieutenant. This regiment became part of Gen. N. B. Forrest's command when he was transferred to the command of West Tennessee, North Mississippi, and Alabama.

Comrade Black served under General Forrest the rest of the war, being in all of his raids, skirmishes, and battles, and was paroled at Gainesville, Ala., with General Forrest on May 11, 1865. He was married by Rev. A. R. Wilson on April 17, 1872, to Miss Sallie I. Coppedge, of Dancyville, Tenn. Their children were: Henrietta, W. F., and R. E. Black. He died in Memphis on January 14, 1920.

As a man he was quiet, modest, amiable, and just; as a soldier, without fear or reproach; as a husband and father, faithful and devoted; as a friend, true and steadfast. His memory is cherished by all and most by those who knew him best.

A beautiful set of resolutions were adopted by the Confederate Historical Association, Camp 28, which were ordered spread upon the minutes and a copy sent to his family.