The Kemp family was highly respected in Huntsville, Alabama. John Kemp was very involved in the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church. His headstone calls him Rev. John Kemp. He was also a farmer. Julia was a highly skilled domestic servant who traveled extensively to take care of family members when they were ill. J.J. became a prominent attorney in Huntsville.

Julia A. Kemp

Julia A. Kemp, born around 1832 in Alabama, lived a life marked by hard work, devotion to her family, and community service. She passed away sometime after 1906. Mrs. Kemp was a skilled domestic servant, known for her excellent references and versatile talents. She specialized in laundering and dyeing wool goods and curtains and was sought after for her baking, preparing cakes, creams, and breads for friends and patrons.

Mrs. Kemp frequently traveled to care for family members in times of illness, visiting cities such as Memphis, St. Paul, and Minneapolis. She and her husband, John Kemp, had at least seven children: six sons—Samuel, John (J. J.), Frank, Edward, Turner, and Daniel—and a daughter, Caroline. Caroline (Carrie) married a Mr. Jordon and lived in Memphis. In 1900, Mrs. Kemp was present to care for her son Edward during his final days in Memphis.

John Kemp (1830–1895)

John Kemp was a farmer and a deeply respected member of the Huntsville community. Known for his exemplary life, he was a faithful member of the C.M.E. Church for 40 years. Mr. Kemp passed away at the age of 65 in his home on Pump Street. His dedication to his faith and community left a lasting impression on those who knew him.

J. J. Kemp (1854–1919)

J. J. Kemp, one of Julia and John Kemp’s sons, was a prominent attorney in Huntsville, Alabama. He maintained his office in the White Building and was frequently recognized for his growing caseload and success in Chancery Court. Regarded as one of Huntsville’s leading attorneys, Mr. Kemp earned the trust and respect of the community.

In addition to his legal career, J. J. Kemp had a background in education and farming. In the 1870s, he founded a school at Bradford’s Grove. He was also a dedicated Freemason, serving as Worshipful Master of North Star Lodge No. 92, A.F. & A.M., and as an alternate delegate to the State Convention in 1900.

By the time of the 1900 U.S. Census, Mr. Kemp was recorded as widowed and living with his mother, Julia Kemp. His life of service, both professionally and personally, left a legacy of leadership and dedication to his community.

1870 United States Federal Census; Ancestry.com

1880 United States Federal Census; Ancestry.com

Huntsville Weekly Democrat (Huntsville, Alabama) Wed, Mar 16, 1892, Page 3

Huntsville Weekly Democrat (Huntsville, Alabama) Wed, Nov 15, 1899, Page 3

1910 United States Federal Census; Ancestry.com

The Journal (Huntsville, Alabama) Fri. May 24, 1895, Page 3

The Journal (Huntsville, Alabama) Fri. Dec 4, 1896, Page 3

The Journal (Huntsville, Alabama) Fri. Feb 16, 1900, Page 3

The Journal (Huntsville, Alabama) Thu. Sep25, 1902, Page 3

The Journal (Huntsville, Alabama) Thu. Sep 13, 1906, Page 5

Alabama, U.S. Death Index, 1908-1959; Ancestry.com