Thompson went with Captain John H. Watts and Thomas Hill on their many explorations throughout Butler County, and had the particular honor of naming the many creeks found in the area.
Born in Clarke County, Georgia, Thompson began life under the unusual circumstance of having all of his brothers and sisters taken in by different members of the community in 1807, when his father's unexpected death left the family with no means of support.
He was then grown, though only weighing 98 pounds, but was very strong and tough for his size, able to even throw down Betsy Donaldson, who was quite a noted character for strength at that time.
He was married on December 19, 1829, to Mary Danvis, whose father Thomas Hayes was so opposed to the marriage that Warren had to steal his bride from the paternal roof at night.
The marriage produced nine children, Albert, Mary, James, Arvilla, Franklin, David, Calvin, John, and Pinkney.