McDougal was "Rag Town" in bygone days

Spencer and Hattie Parrish were some of the pioneer residents of McDougal. They were married in 1904 and built their home on what was then the main road from McDougal to Piggott about one or two miles east of McDougal. It was on the gravel road down by the big ditch.

Spencer's parents were James Madison "Mad" and Sarah Parish, who are buried at Mars Hill Cemetery at Crockett. Hattie's parents were John and Mary O'Guin.

Spencer and Hattie were the parents of Vernie and Edith. Edith Parrish later married Jude Robinson. Spencer was the brother of Marlie Parrish who lived in a house similar to his across the ditch. The home of Spencer and Hattie burned in 1950s.

In those days, they sometimes referred to McDougal as "Rag Town." This was because there were so many businesses that were set up in tents.

The two-story house where Vernie Parrish and his wife, Verna, lived behind the cotton gin was built about 1917. It still stands and is thought to be one of the oldest houses in the area.

In the photograph, Spencer is holding their granddaughter, Zelda Robinson and Hattie is holding granddaughter Tullin Parrish. Zelda Robinson is the present Mrs. Doyle Hicks of Corning, and Tullin became the wife of Don Melton of McDougal.

Spencer and Hattie Parrish are buried in Post Oak Cemetery.