John Sharpe (1780-1856). A veteran of the War of 1812, John Sharpe came to this area, then Knox Co., ca. 1817. After service on first Whitley Co. Court, he became first state representative in 1820. Great-grandson, Clifford M. Sharpe, served as state rep. from this district, 1970-1976. This land has been in family since 1822, when John Sharpe obtained a land grant. Presented by Descendants of John Sharpe.