Branch, R. W.

Born near Nashville, TN; not clear if deafness was congenital or acquired. Orphaned at age 9; attended the state school for the deaf at Raleigh, NC, and went to Gallaudet College 1866-1868. After leaving Gallaudet, worked as a farm hand in summers and a clerk in winters. To Nashville in 1872 as a full-time court clerk. In 1880, successfully ran for office as register of deeds, being re-elected in 1882. As of 1898, was serving as deputy register of deeds.