1837 - 1900
Auburn Lorenzo (A.L.) Pridemore was born on June
27, 1837 near Purchase (Duffield) in Scott County. By his own
efforts, alternately working and going to school, he received
a limited, but usable education. During the Civil War, Pridemore
raised a company of volunteer infantry for the Confederate Army
and served as its Captain until June 1862.
Military leadership came naturally
to Pridemore. He received several promotions, eventually rising
to Colonel of the 64th Virginia Calvary. In 1865, he was elected
a member of the Virginia House of Delegates. However, the war
prevented him from taking his seat. After the war, he studied
law and was admitted to the bar in 1867. He began practicing
law in Jonesville in Lee County. From 1871-1875, Pridemore served
in the State Senate. Two years later, he was elected as a Democrat
to the 45th Congress from 1877-1879. After public life, he returned
to law practice in Jonesville.
