MALACHI HARPER

Pioneers of Wiregrass Georgia
Malachi Harper was a son of James and Mary (Strickland) Harper, and was born in Wayne County, December 10, 1817. He lived his entire life in Wayne County and died January 11, 1900. He was married twice. His first wife was Mary Elizabeth Knight, born 1820 in Wayne County, a daughter of Abraham Knight. She died of childbirth in 1855 and Mr. Harper then married Mrs. Mary Jane (Sykes) Lane, July 13, 1855. There were eight children by the first wife and eight by the second wife.
Mr. Harper was a faithful member of Little Creek Baptist Church, and served as a deacon in it until his death. He is remembered as a very godly man, and his home was one of open hospitality. He and his wives are buried at Little Creek Church near the old home place.
Mr. Harper served in the state militia during the latter part of the Civil War, being too old for the regular army service.