The Calhoun
Family Legacy
150+ years of achievement, education, and family connection
Welcome to the digital home of the Calhoun family
From pioneering land ownership in 1870s Georgia to today’s accomplished professionals, educators, and community leaders across the country, our family’s story continues to grow with each generation.
Our Family’s Journey
At the heart of our family story are Missouri McElmurray and Joshua Calhoun, who married in 1885 and made decisions that shaped generations. Missouri inherited land through her father, Laverne “Fox” McElmurray. Joshua, son of Noah and Sophia Calhoun, expanded the family holdings from 50 acres to over 250 acres by 1909.
Together, they raised nine children who became teachers, dentists, ministers, business owners, and dedicated community members. Their commitment to education and smart land management created opportunities that rippled through every generation that followed.
Legacy Highlights
Land and Leadership
Our family’s 150+ year connection to Georgia land remains strong, with descendants still stewarding portions of the original property.
Education Excellence
From the beginning, education has been our family priority. Joshua and Missouri’s nine children all received excellent educations, setting a standard that continues today.
Community Impact
Whether through medical practice, education, business innovation, or community service, family members have always contributed to the places they call home.
Lasting Recognition
Five streets in Lizella are named for our family on what was once family land: Missouri Road, Missouri McElmurray Drive, Lilla Calhoun Drive, Josh Calhoun Drive, and Fox McElmurry Drive.
Our Story
Our story begins in Bibb County, Georgia, with two families and a piece of land. Fox McElmurray, born in Virginia, went from farm laborer to landowner when he acquired 50 acres in the 1870s. When he lost that land to foreclosure in 1890, his son-in-law Joshua Calhoun bought it for $191 and kept it in the family. Joshua was the son of Noah and Sophia Calhoun, who were born into slavery, and he had learned to read and write by age 17. On February 3, 1885, Joshua married Missouri McElmurray, and together they expanded the family’s holdings with a 250-acre purchase in 1909.
Joshua and Missouri raised nine children, and every one of them was given an education. They grew up to be teachers, ministers, professionals, and business owners. Today, five streets in Lizella carry our family’s names, and descendants still care for part of the original land.
Have a family story to share? Planning to attend our next reunion? Want to connect with cousins you haven’t met yet?
This website is for all of us. Whether you’re researching your connection to the family tree or have photos and memories to contribute, we want to hear from you.