HUGH M. COLEMAN, an enterprising business man of Mineral Wells, who has made a creditable record in official as well as mercantile circle, is now at the head of the firm of H. M. Coleman & Company. He was born at Halletsville, Lavaca county, Texas, November 16, 1874, his parents being William H. and Catherine (Hemphill) Coleman. The father, a native of Mississippi, became a school teacher, following the profession for some years. Taking up his abode in Lavaca county, Texas, he served as sheriff for eight years, proving an able official and fearless officer. He also served in the Confederate army with distinction during the four years of the Civil war and was once wounded. He speculated in lands to considerable extent, making judicious investments which brought him a good financial return. He was married in Mississippi in 1870 and came to this state, where, throughout his remaining days he was recognized as a man of affairs, his opinions carrying weight and influence in regard to many public measures so that he became recognized as a leader of public thought and opinion. He died at Mineral Wells in 1887, while his wife survived until 1889. In their family were five children: James H.; William, who died in infancy; Hugh M., of this review; Henry L.; and Pearl L.
Hugh M. Coleman was a youth of nine years when brought to Mineral Wells, where he has since resided. He attend the public schools and completed his education in the Mineral Wells College. The first business undertaking to which he gave his attention after putting aside his textbooks was that of agent of the Wells Fargo Express Company, in which capacity he served at Mineral Wells for five years. He was then called to public office and from 1900 until 1905 was city assessor and collector. On the fist of January of the latter year he engaged in the clothing and men’s furnishing goods business under the firm name of H. M. Coleman & Company. This is now the leading establishment of its kind in Palo Pinto county and Mr. Coleman is a most active and energetic business man, thoroughly in touch with the spirit of progressive commercialism, his labors being along modern lines of activity that have resulted in the establishment of a business that is constantly growing in volume and importance.
Mr. Coleman was married to Miss Nannie Hanrick, a native of Waco, Texas, and a daughter of Captain E. G. Hanrick. Mr. Coleman is active in the work of the Democratic party, his opinions carrying weight in its councils, and he is a member of the Masonic, Elks and Knights of Pythias fraternities. He is a typical American citizen, watchful of opportunities, prompt in their utilization and through indefatigable energy is steadily advancing toward the goal of prosperity.
Source: B. B. Paddock, History and Biographical Record of North and West Texas (Chicago: Lewis Publishing Co., 1906), Vol. II, p. 450.