These two photos were found in Dr. E. Russ Williams’ collection. They are Phinetta Wooten Newman Hasley and her second husband, David Hasley. You are probably familiar with Hasley Cemetery, which was named for them. It is where both of them are buried. Some of you may not know that Phinetta was a philanthropist on the scale of Mary Goss and Kitty Degree!
Phinetta donated money to help establish the churches of First Baptist of Monroe and Olive Branch Baptist and Trenton Baptist in West Monroe. Many others owe their starts to her generous gifts. She also gave the land for Hasley cemetery to West Monroe.
It is believed that it was Phinetta and David who built Traveler’s Rest before the McGuires bought the plantation from them!
Phinetta, David, and Phinetta’s first husband Lemuel Newman all lie buried in an above ground crypt at Hasley Cemetery.
Ouachita Parish History Tidbits 