James Hampton was born a slave in Colbert County, Alabama. He was the son of Agnes Madden. He worked as a house boy. He married Alabama Vinson, and later Olie Mae (his wife at his death). He was educated in the Colbert County public schools and received religious training at Roger Williams University in Nashville, Tennessee. He was baptized into the Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church in September 1869 by Rev. Henry Bynum, and on June 18, 1882 he was ordained. He was one of the leading men of the Muscle Shoals Baptist Association. He was barred for a while because of rumors about him and women. He was a builder, an organizer, a pastor and a businessman. He was one of the founders of the following churches: Bethel (Colvert) of Leighton, Cave Springs of Tuscumbia, Zion No. One of Barton, First Baptist of Russellville, Carbon Hill Baptist of Carbon Hill, First Baptist of Sheffield, First Baptist of Huntsville, Red Bank of Town Creek, Hollywood Baptist of Hollywood, and First Baptist of Stevenson. He served as editor of the American Star, and was the composer of several songs. He was also a member of the Masonic Order of the State of Alabama. He was tall, handsome, carried a cane, loved cars, purchased a new Dodge, but didn't know how to drive and backed it into his neighbor's porch. He carried peppermint candy in his pockets. The grandchildren had to kiss him to get one. When he died, ministers had to vote on who would preach his funeral, which was extremely long.
James and Alabama Hampton's children were: Percy Hampton, Minnie Hampton, Sadelle Hampton, John T. Hampton, Annie Lee Hampton, Elzer Hampton, and Carrie Hampton.
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