David McMichen Lees (1807-1872) was the son of William and Jane Lees of Mecklenburg County, NC, the second oldest child in a large family. His siblings included Hugh, a younger brother; William, the oldest brother; Caroline, probably Elizabeth C., a sister attending school in Hillsborough, NC and who married Moses Hart; Margaret, who married Stephen D. Manson; Jane, who married Capt. James H. Davis; and Dorcas, who married Washington Miller. After receiving his preparatory education at Ebenezer Academy, he entered the University in 1827 and graduated in 1829. A member of the Dialectic Society, Lees served as secretary from November 7 to 28, 1827, and was president from September 25 to October 18, 1828. He eventually became an attorney.