HISTORY OF THE WHEEL. 79 



Public Wells. J. R. Miles was elected president and G. 

 W. Miles, secretary. J. R. Miles was the first to go out 

 and organize Wheels at other places, and by him, and 

 through his influence, five new Wheels were organized 

 during the month of March, 1884. Then came the usual 

 opposition to all reform movements. The Order was 

 ridiculed by good men who did not understand its objects 

 and aims. This, to a great extent, prevented many from 

 joining who at first were favorably impressed with its 

 objects. It was not until in April, 1885, that any other 

 organizations were effected. But the iron will, indomitable 

 courage and persevering industry of Mr. Miles, who had 

 been diligently at work for more than twelve months, 

 began to inspire his community with confidence in the 

 Order, and work progressd more rapidly. From April 

 25th, 1885, to April 3Oth, 1886, one hundred and thirteen 

 Wheels were organized. These were confined to the 

 counties of Weakly, Henry, Obion, Carroll and Gibson. 

 In July, 1885, at a County Wheel meeting at Adams' 

 school house, in Weakly county, the State Wheel of 

 Tennessee was organized. J. R. Miles was unanimously 

 elected president, and J. M. Adams, secretary. The 

 records of this meeting were not all preserved, and it is 

 impossible to give a full account of its transactions. 

 The Constitution and By-laws of the State Wheel of 

 Arkansas were examined and adopted with but slight 

 change. The proper steps were taken to procure a 

 charter and seal. At this time, July 5th, 1885, there 

 were one hundred and fifty -four Subordinate, and 

 five County Wheels in the State. During the next 

 year the Order increased with wonderful rapidity, and 

 at the State Wheel meeting, which was held at Public 

 Wells, January yth and 8th, 1886, a larger representation 

 was present than had ever before assembled. At this 

 meeting much important business was transacted. A 



