[1] He presented credentials as a Democratic member-elect to the 25th United States Congress and served from July 18, 1837, until February 5, 1838, when the seat was declared vacant.

[2] He was confirmed by the United States Senate on February 13, 1839, and received his commission the same day.

[1] Concurrent with his federal judicial service, Gholson served in the Mississippi State Militia as a lieutenant in 1846.

[1] Gholson initially enlisted as a private, taking part in the battles of Fort Donelson, Iuka, and Corinth in 1862.

Gholson was severely wounded in the December 1864 Battle of Egypt Station, and lost his right arm.