James William Hardy Lance

      Hardy was born March 7, 1868 in the Davis District of Lumpkin Co., Ga.   His parents were George M. Dallas and Sarah E. (Jefferson) Lance.   He married Sarah Elizabeth Rider, October 15, 1885.   She was born September 15, 1872.   Her parents were James H. and Evaline (Freeland) Rider.   Records state that Sarah Elizabeth Rider was adopted by William and Nancy Watkins.   Sarah Elizabeth Lance died July 23, 1954.
      Hardy was what was called a country doctor at that time.   He was called on when neighbors got sick or needed teeth extracted.   He used herbs, roots, bark and resin which he kept a supply for such needs.   At times he would stay gone for days or weeks or until the patient recovered or died.   Hardy was often called on to call dances and it was during such an occassion he fell through a broken porch and broke several ribs.   He died about ten days later from pneumonia on March 1, 1925.   Hardy was a carpenter by trade and he also made caskets.   Hardy and Elizabeth are buried in Hightower Baptist Church Cemetery in Lumpkin Co., Ga.