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The Poor Arkansas Farmer Who Became Rich After Finding Diamonds In His Fields
In 1906, a modest landowner made a shocking discovery that changed his and his family’s life forever
Farming, especially on a smaller scale, has never been an easy way to make a living. Particularly in the past, such a lifestyle often meant living in poverty or teetering right on the edge. Such was the case of John Wesley Huddleston, an Arkansas farmer barely eking by when he found diamonds in his fields in 1906, which brought him both money and widespread fame.
Huddleston was born in Pike County, Arkansas in 1862 as one of eight children (he later had an additional three step-sisters). He married Sarah Keys in 1886, who had a young son from a previous relationship. The couple went on to have six daughters of their own.
His family had a long history in the area, and it was of little surprise when he struck out on his own as an adult to operate a farm that he worked to add to to bit by bit, until it was 243 acres when his fortune changed forever.
Huddleston’s farm was originally a 49-acre tract he purchased in 1889 for $100. Over the ensuing years he added small parcels as he was able (occasionally selling some as well to help make ends meet). The largest portion of their…
