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George Washington and Caroline (Faggert)
Coats came to Keechi in the 1800's from Louisiana. George and Caroline
were hard workers who tended their land vigorously. They were up
before dawn and kept\pt at it until dark. I am told that Caroline kept
her house in running order and every meal was served with homemade breads,
two to three meats, a variety of vegetables, fruits, syrups and honey.
Desserts were served on Sunday's. George was the Postmaster and owner
operator of a mercantile store. He and Caroline brought an economic
wealth to Keechi. They also earned the respect of the local residents.
George's store was the place to go and visit, catch up on the
latest news and solve the world's problems. Caroline being a dedicated
servant of God and a lifetime member of the Mt. Zion church helped with many
a program. George and Caroline were also the proud parents of George,
Mary Ann, John, and Elijah.
George and Caroline are also responsible for establishing the
Keechi Cemetery were they lay in rest today.
Elijah (Lige) and his wives, first he was married to Nancy
(Heatly) Coats and had two daughters Nancy and Lizzie. His second wife
was Mary (Williamson) Coats along with her husband are considered a legend
due to their service at Mt. Zion Baptist church. They served many
positions in the church. Lige was a Deacon and Mary was the Sunday
school teacher and the leader of the children programs. Mary and Lige
were the caretakers of the Church and property, Lige was a Mason and helped
establish the Keechi Lodge he also was a member of the Woodmen of the World.
Mary was an active member of the Eastern Star. They both were actively
involved in the education advancement of the Keechi settlement.
Lige was successful in the cattle, hog, and farm business.
He shipped his cattle and hogs by rail to Ft. Worth. This brought
recognition of the stock farmer to Keechi.
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