Portland, Oregon - History (part 14 of 18)

Judge Bellinger, during his occupancy of the bench was noted for his courtesy, industry and acuteness, as well as for his learning and firmness. Polic}' had little, if anything, to do with his decisions, his conclusions being reached by critical analysis presented with legal and logical force. His experience as a judge served to increase his powers of advocacy, and largely adds to his equipment as a lawyer. Painstaking in his investigations, acute in mind, familiar with practice and an adept in pleading, he was quickly noted, on his retirement from the bench as a member of the bar who had no superior in the difficult task of "tr3-ing a case after verdict," thereby snatching victory from the jaws of defeat. In advocacy before the Court he is nearly always severely logical, though when his case demands it no one is better able than himself to substitute plausibility for logic and make the "worse appear the better reason." In his jury appeals his owu intellectuality causes him to address the head rather than the heart and hence his success in jury trials is greater with an intelligent than an ignorant panel. His wit is well known and often has his antagonists at the bar winced under his incisiveness. lu the social circle, however, it is used only to please and not to wound, making him a genial companion, whose absence is regretted and presence always prized. His merits as a lawyer have become so well known as to secure him a lucrative practice in the conduct of causes for railway, banking and insurance corporations. His mind is noted for aleitness; in all his actions moral sense is predominant; he is a reader, student and thinker; possesses unusual powers as a writer, and has talents in general that would make him conspicuous and bring him success in any station.

UAILING, Henry, banker, and one of the leading business men of the Northwest, was born in the city of New York, Januarj' 17, 1834. His father, Josiah Failing, for man}' j-ears an honored citizen of Portland, was born in Montgomer}- count}'. New York. Early in life he went to Albany, to learn the trade of paper stainer, and in 1824, accompanied his employer upon his removal to New York City. He served his apprenticeship and followed his trade until forced to abandon it on account of ill health. He then engaged in the trucking business, following this line of work for many years. During this period he served for several years as superintendent of public vehicles of the city. In 1851, he came to Portland and established the mercantile firm of J. Failing & Co., with which he was connected until 1864, when, having acquired a modest competency, he retired from active business.

Arriving in Portland at a period of rapid changes and growth, he in many waj'S became thoroughly identified with its progress and was soon called upon to take a prominent part in the management of public affairs. In 1853, he was eledled mayor of the city and did much to give a proper start to the destiny of the place. He took a warm interest in educational matters, and as one of the trustees of the public schools, devoted much of his time to their establishment and management. Their success in early days and present excellence are largely due to his efforts. He was an enthusiastic republican in political faith and was a delegate to the National Convention which nominated Lincoln for a second term, aud of the convention which first nominated Gen. Grant. From the time he retired from business until his death, which occurred iu 1877, his time and energies were largely devoted to religious and philanthropic work, and his aid and encouragement were freely given to all proje6ts which had for their aim the moral and temporal good of his fellow men. He was ever the most modest and unassuming of men, but a man of strong charadler, abounding iu good counsel and always read\' to serve his friends and neighbors, but rather in a quiet than a public way. He was in many respecfls an ideal citizen, and has left behind him the record of a symmetrical, wholesome aud worthy life.

Henry Failing was educated at a public school iu New York, but began his business career at the early age of twelve in a French importing and shipping house. Two years later he entered the employ of Eno, Mahoney & Co., one of the largest wholesale drj' goods houses in the city. Here he remained in the capacity of assistant book-keeper, also having charge of their foreign business, until 1851, when, with a }'ounger brother, he accompanied his father to Portland. At this time the city was but a mere hamlet in size; containing not more than four or five hundred inhabitants. Father and son at once established the firm of J. Failing & Co., and began a general merchandising business. They built a store on a portion of the ground where Failing & Co.'s building now stands. Their business rapidly grew, and in a few }-ears reached large proportions. Mr. Failing, senior, as previously stated, retired from the firm in 1864-, and from that time until 1871, Henry Failing conducted it alone. In 1868, he began to restrict his business exclusivelv to hardware and iron supplies. Henry W. Corbett became associated with Mr. Failing in the hardware business, in 1871, under the present firm name of Corbett, Failing & Co., which, besides the principals named, now consists of Edward and James F. Failing, vounger brothers of Henr\- Failing. This mercantile house does a wholesale business golely and is the largest establishment iu its line in the Northwest.

In 1869, Mr. Failing and Mr. Corbett purchased nearh' all of the stock of the First National Bank, the first bank established iu Oregon under the national banking adt, and for a number of j'ears the only one west of the Rock}- INIountains. Under their joint management, with Mr. Failing as president, this financial institution has been remarkably prosperous, aud is now at the ver}' head of the banking houses of the Northwest. Its capital stock in 1869, was |100,000, but was shortly increased to 1250,000, and is now |500,000, while its present surplus is |650,000. Since his conne<ftion with this bank, Mr. Failing's time and energies have been principally devoted to financial affairs, in which he has shown himself to possess the highest order of ability. He is largely interested iu other business enterprises and owns valuable real estate in and near the city of Portland, but it is as a banker that he is best and most favorably known.

Although never an aspirant for political honors Mr. Failing was elected Maj-or of the city in 1864 as a citizens' candidate. He is a republican in political faith, and on State and national issues may be termed a party man, but in the management of local affairs he believes party lines should be ignored aud that all good citizens should unite to secure the selection of those best qualified to administer the duties of public office without regard to their party affiliation. It was this well known position of Mr. Failing which induced the citizens of Portland to urge him to become a candidate for Mayor in 1864, when the}' desired to emancipate the city from the rule of politicians. At the urgent solicitation of many friends he consented to become a candidate, and was elected. His administration was conducted on a purely business basis such as a good business man would employ in the transaction of his own business affairs. During his term a new city charter was obtained from the Legislature, aud a system pf street improvement and sewerage was inaugurated. So satisfactorj- to the people was his conduct of affairs tliat, in 1865, he was almost unanimously re-elected for a term of two years. He was again elected Mayor in 1875 and for another term most acceptably ser\'ed the people. He has since taken no active part in local political affairs beyond that required of a private citizen who is deeply interested in the welfare of the cit}'. He was appointed a member of the water committee of the city of Portland under the Legislative act of 1886, aud has since served as chairman of the committee. This committee purchased and enlarged the old water works, but is empowered to build and now has plans under way for the construction of a new system of water .supply.

For several years Mr. Failing was a regent of the State University-; first having been appointed bj- Gov. Thayer and re-appointed by Gov. Moody. He is also a trustee of the Deaf Mute School at Salem; trustee and treasurer of the Children's Home, aud of the Portland Library Association.

During nearly forty years Mr. Failing has been in active business life in Portland and has built up a large and rapidly growing fortune. It is needless to say that he has been a tireless worker. Such results as have crowned his life come to no dreamer of dreams and to no mere luxurious dilettante. He scarcely had a boyhood. At twelve he was at work and at seventeen carried upon his shoulders responsibilities fit to test the power of a mature man. His time from this period to the present has been almost completely engrossed in business, and although he has always lavished his energy upon his work he presents the appearance of one much ^-ounger than his years. This comes from an inherited robust constitution, an evenly balanced mental organization and a life free from excesses of any kiud. He is keen and sagacious in business and possesses the highest order of financial ability, united to the power of apparently unlimited application of mind and body upon any project he undertakes. He has achieved a position in the financial affairs of the Northwest second to none in power and influence, but his naturally restless activity, buoyant spirit and physical vigor still urge him onward with all the force and energy associated with men many years his juniors.

Mr. Failing was married on October 21, 1858 to Miss Emily Phelps Corbett, sister of Hon. H. \V. Corbett, who died in July, 1870. They had three daughters all of whom are living at home with their father.

Henry Failing is one of the strong and able men whose lives have been wrought into the historj- of Portland from the beginning of the city to the present day. He is a prominent man among those whose careers furnish the explanation of the growth, success and commanding position that Portland has achieved and so strongly maintains.

DOLPH, Cyrus A, of Portland, one of the most snccessful lawj'ers of Oregon, was born in Chemung, (now Schuyler) County, New York, on September 27, 184-0. Leaving school at the early age of eighteen he took up the occupation of teacher, and taught in the schools of his native count}- during the years 1859, 1860 and 1861. In the spring of 1862 he enlisted in the Government service from which he was discharged at Fort Walla Walla, Washington, in OAober, 1862, and came to Portland, where lie has ever since resided.

While engaged in ttaching,' Mr. Dolph began the study of law as an accomplishment rather than with a view of adopting it as a profession, but he soon became so much interested in it that what had been taken up as a pastime he resolved to make his life work. With this end in view he began a systematic course of study and was admitted to the bar in 1866, immediately thereafter beginning the active practice of his profession.

In June, 1869, without solicitation on his part, he was nominated on the Republican ticket for the office of City Attorne)' for the City of Portland, and was elected by a large majority over Judge W. F. Trimble, now deceased. He served for the full term of two years, and his administration of the duties of the office was eminently satisfactory to the people. In 1871-, during his temporary' absence from the cit}', he was nominated by the Republican Convention for the Lower House of the Legislature, but he declined to become a candidate. Two j'ears later he was tendered the nomination for State Senator, which he also declined.

Since his residence in Portland Mr. Dolph has been identified with most of the principal corporations which have been organized for the development of the city and State, and is now vice-president of the Northern Pacific Terminal Company of Oregon, and the Oregon Improvement Company. He was one of the founders of the Portland Savings Bank and the Commercial National Bank of Portland, for several years being a director in, and the attorney for both of these banks. For a number of years he was a director in the Oregon and California Railroad Company and during the years 1883 and 1884, was the general attoruej- of that company. He was also director in the Oregon Railway and Navigation Company from 1883 to 1889.

In 1883, Mr. Dolph was selected by Mr. Henry Villard, then president of the Oregon Railway and Navigation Company, and the Northern Pacific Railroad Company, as the general attorne}- of the first named corporation, and the consulting attorney in Oregon far the latter compau}-. Notwithstanding the various changes in the management of these companies, which have occurred since that time, he has continuously held the positions named, meeting the many intricate and complicated legal questions which have arisen in relation to these two great companies with promptness and decision, and disposing of them to the entire satisfaction of both management and stockholders.

Mr. Dolph's attainments as a lawyer early gave him prominence in his profession, and not only has he enjo3-ed a lucrative practice for many years, but has already realized a handsome competencj- from his professional labors. Since 1883 he has been the senior member of the firm of Dolph, Bellinger, Mallor>- & Simon, - an association of legal talent of exceptional strength, character and ability.

Mr. Dolph has always been a zealous Republican in politics. He has, however, no political aspirations, and, with the exception mentioned, has consistently refused to become a candidate for office. The large interests with which he is identified, and his business habits leave him with neither time nor inclination for the pursuit of office. Every part of the large and complicated business of his firm has his personal attention and supervision. He is a hard and conscientious worker. The law is said to be a jealous mistress, yet, Mr. Dolph's devotion to his profession entitles him to the place which he has in it. He is cautious without being timid, and is exceptional for the soundness of his judgment. Having a retentive and discriminating mind, he never forgets nor misapplies a case. He has in an unusual degree those qualities which distinguish the safe lawyer from a showy one. Steadfast in his friendship; conservative in his judgment, w^hen the conduct of others exposes them to censure; considerate of the feelings of his fellows; scrupulously careful of the rights of those with whom he is brought into business relations, and conscientious in all he does, he - is deservedly held in high esteem bj' all who know him.

T OWNSDALE, J. P. O. There are few business men more favorably known in the ^ metropolis of the Northwest than the gentleman of whom we write. His operations in real estate have been of the most reliable character, and the services that he has rendered the city in calling attention to her advantages have been very great. In his personal charadter he has maintained an integrity worthy, not only of the highest commendation, but of the imitation of young men.

He was born in Princeton, Gibson count}-, Indiana. January 1st, 1830, the sou of Daniel H. Lownsdale, the early owner of the central part of Portland. At the age of sixteen he entered the dr^' goods store of an uncle, of his native place, in whose employ he remained until at the age of twenty-one (1851) he came, at the request of his father, via the Isthmus of Panama, to Portland. He was here engaged in merchandising, until in 1853 he embraced the opportunity to return East, via the plains route, on horseback, with Captain Hiram Smith. He entered into partnership with his uncle in Indiana - the business proving ver_v successful to all parties concerned. He was married in 1854 to Miss Sarah R. Milburn, a daughter of Robert Milburn, Esq., one of the leading citizens of Princeton. During his residence at his old home, he was honored with various public trusts and offices in the town and count)-. In the spring of 1862, however, learning of the failure of his father's health and desiring to see him, he undertook once more the journey to our State, by the Isthmus route, but reaching San Francisco the news was received of the father's death, which occurred at about the time the journey began. The duties of administrator now devolved upon him, and made necessary a protracted stay at Portland.

But in due course of administration, notwithstanding many complications, settlement of the estate was made to the full satisfaiftion of all interested.

In the meantime, Mr. Lownsdale had become a citizen of Portland, and, in 1863, was elected to fill a vacancy in the city council, and was afterwards elected for a three-years term. At the close of this he was narrowly defeated, by Thos. J. Holmes, for mayor. The city was then democratic, while Mr. Lownsdale ran on the republican ticket. This eledtion will be memorable for the sudden death of Mr. Holmes, who died on the day succeeding the election - a demise due to the excitement of the campaign. Mr. Lownsdale was appointed upon the Board of County Commissioners to fill the position left vacant by the election to the United States Senate of the incumbent, Hon. H. \V. Corbett, and be beld the office a second term by election, declining further preferment. He continues his business with unabated interest and success.

His famil)' consists of wife and four grown children. The eldest, a daughter, is the wife of Mr. E. M. Hall, who is operating quite extensively upon claims in the Coeur d'Aleue mines. The two older sous are in successful business of their own.

In Mr. Lownsdale we fiud exemplified that sturdy devotion to business and progress, which have not ouh- realized all that the State is at present, but which contains the promise of a flourishiug future.

REED, S. G., of Portland, one of the city's most useful and progressive citizens, was born at East Abington, Massachusetts, April 23d, 1830. His early education was received in the public school of his native town, but he afterwards attended a private school and academy. He came to San Francisco, by way of the Isthmus of Panama, in the spring of 1852, and in the following autumn came to Oregon, where he has ever since resided. He was a clerk in the mercantile house of W. S. Ladd & Co., from the fall of 1855 until the 2d day of April, 1859, when he became a partner in the business, under the firm name of L,add, Reed & Co.

In 1858, he purchased \V. B. Wells' interest in the steamers Senorita, Belle and Multnomah and for many ^-ears from this time was one of the leading spirits in the development of the steamboat interest on the North Pacific coast. The steamers named were subsequently merged in the Oregon Steam Navigation Company's line. This company was first organized under the laws of Washington Territory, December 27, 1860, at which time its entire assets amounted to only $172,500. It was re-organized with a capital stock of $2,000,000, under the laws of Oregon, on Otflober 18, 1862, with J. C. Ainsworth, D. F. Bradford, R. R. Thompson, and S. G. Reed as incorporators. Mr. Reed was a director in the company from the date of its organization, and on July 27, 1864., was eleAed vice-president, remaining in that position until the final transfer of the property to the Villard Syndicate for $5,000,000, in Juh-, 1879, at which time it was merged in the Oregon Railway and Navigation Company. During the period of its existence the Oregon Steam Navigation Co. had a most important bearing on the commercial development of Oregon. In 1867, it had grown to be such a powerful and wealth)- corporation that it paid taxes on a valuation of $357,100, while the total assessed valuation of Multnomah county was only $5,4.00,800.

From vear to year, the company not only added to and perfected its line of elegant steamers, but, in 1862, built the portage railroads at the Cascades and Dalles; in 1868, built a telegraph line from Portland to The Dalles, and in 1878, purcha.sed the Walla Walla and Columbia River railroad, running from Wallula to Walla Walla. So successful was the management of the company that these improvements and additions to its property were made out of the earuiug= of the company without a single assessment upon the stockholders, and from 1867 to 1879, inclusive, the company paid dividends to the amount of $2,702,500, while the amount paid out for purchase and construction during this period was nearly $2,000,000. These figures give an idea of the immense business done by the company and is a record seldom, if ever, surpassed bj' auj* similar corporation. In achieving this remarkable success. Jlr. Reed bore a conspicuous part, and it furnishes the best evidence of his business sagacity.

^\^lile his time was largely devoted to the direction and control of this company, he, in 1S71, in connedlion with W. S. Ladd, made large investments in farming lands in the Willamette Valley, which have since been brought to a high state of cviltivation. He also imported fine grades of horses, cattle and sheep and has done much to improve the breeding of stock in Oregon.

In 1879, Mr. Reed was interested with Mr. A. Onderdonk and D. O. Mills in the coutraft for building the first secflion of the Canadian Pacific railway, from Port ISIoody to Kamloops, British Columbia.

He has been president of the Oregon Iron and Steel company since its organization, .\pril 22, 1882, at which time it was incorporated with a capital stock of |1, 500,000, and at the same time bought out the Oswego Iron Company. The present company erected a modern blast furnace and pipe plant and improved its water power, and is now turning out pig iron and cast iron pipe, being the only concern manufacturing iron pipe on the Pacific Coast, the nearest plant being at Pueblo, Colorado.

Mr. Reed is largely interested in mining and is president of the well known "Connor Creek Jlining and Milling Company, " which is operating a valuable gold mine in Baker county, Oregon. This property is rich in ore and has been worked continuously for the past sixteen j-ears. .\ new vein is now being tapped at a depth of four hundred feet. The ore is free milling and the present capacity of the mine is thirty-five stamps, w'hich are run by water power. Mr. Reed is also owner of the Bunker Hill and Sullivan Mines in the Coeur d' Alene district, Idaho, which he purchased in 1SS7. These mines are large producers of silver and lead ore.

In all of his business operations, Jlr. Reed has been bold and enterprising. He possesses that rare courage which, when added to good judgment, is so necessary to success in new and novel enterprises of great magnitude. His plans are carefully laid and he is not easily turned aside from anj- project he undertakes, however serious the obstacles may appear that oppose his way. Temporary disarrangements of his plans by unforseeu mishaps, disturb him but little; he simply commences anew, tries other expedients and is very apt to succeed where a majority of men would have succumbed at the first failure. He is naturally hopeful, is full of resources and is strongly self-reliant; and when his judgment approves a course, is not afraid to stand alone. More than once in his career have these elements in his charadter been conspicuously shown and almost uniforml)- have results vindicated the correctness of his judgment.

The city of Portland has been benefited in many ways by his efforts. No one has more confidence in the city's destiny as a great center of trade, commerce and mechanical industries, nor more freely contributes to all objects which seem likely to advance the city's prosperity. He has erected several buildings which have added to the city's architedtural appearance, notably the Abington building, the largest and finest office building in the city. He is a republican in politics, and although he has positive views as to the conduct of public affairs and is a strong believer in the principles of his party, he has no taste nor inclination for political life. The management of extensive business interests, for which he is mentalh- and ph3-sicall3' so ably adapted, offers to one of his temperament by far a more congenial and useful field.

Mr. Reed was married in October, 1850 to Amanda Wood, of Quincy, Massachusetts. Their home on First street is one of the finest residences in the city, where he delights to entertain his friends and where his chief comforts and happiness are to be found.

KELLY, J.\MES K. For many years James K. Kelly has Ijeen a prominent man in the legal and political history of Oregon, and has left upon the annals of this section of the Union the impress of his personality. In positions of honor and trust he has maintained an exalted standard of excellence and according to the dictates of his conscience and judgment his influence has been cast for the agencies he believed to be conducive to the true interests of the people. A fitting record of the part he has borne in many important events during his long residence in Oregon, verj' properly belongs to anv history pertaining to this portion of the State.

He was born in Center County, Pennsylvania, in 1819. Until he attained the age of sixteen years his life was spent upon a farm. He was prepared for a collegiate course at Milton and Lewisljurg .\cademies, and became so far advanced in classical and mathematical learning that in 1837 he entered the junior class at Princeton College, New Jersey, from which institution he graduated in 1S39. In the fall of 1839 he went to Carlisle, Pennsylvania, and commenced the study of law in the lawdepartment of Dickinson College, then under the professorship of John Reed, L. L. D. He graduated in the fall of 18-H and shortly thereafter began the practice of his profession at Lewistown, Pennsylvania. He had been in practice but a short time when he was appointed Deputy Attorney General for Juniata County, by Ovid F. Johnson. .Attorney General of Pennsylvania, and was re-appointed by Mr. Johnson's successor, John K. Kane, .Attorney General under Hon. Francis R. .Shunk, Democratic Governor of the State. He held the position until the death of Gov. Shunk, when he was removed by the succeeding Whig governor.

He continued the practice of law at Lewistown, until March, 1849, when, in company with thirteen others he started for California, arriving in San Francisco in July, 1849. The gold excitement was then at its height and Mr. Kelly tried his fortune at mining, working in the Southern mine in Calavaras County, and at Jamestown and Murphy's diggings. He was thus engaged until the early part of the winter of 1849, having been moderately successful, realizing some $2,000. He then went to San Francisco and resumed the practice of his profession. Here he remained until May, 1851, when he came to Oregon and linked his destiny with the tlien new territorj-.

His first sunmier in Oregon was passed at a place then known as Pacific City, near where Ilwaco now is. In the fall of 1851 he settled in Oregon City, where he opened a law office in partnership with the late \. L. Lovejoy. Mr. Lovejoy was at that time a member of the Oregon Legislature and during the session of 1852-3 he was instrumental in having Mr. Kelly appointed one of the Code Commissioners to prepare a code of laws for Oregon Territory. Mr. Lovejoy at the same time was appointed Postal .\gent, which caused their partnership relation to be discontinued.

In the summer of 1853 the Code Commissioners, consisting of Mr. Kelly, as chairman, and Judge R. P. Boise and D. R. Bigelow, prepared the first code of laws for the

In 1853 Mr. Kelh- was elected a member of the territorial council from Clackamas County to fill the vacancy caused by the resignation of Mr. Lovejoy, and at the end of the year was elected for a full term of three years, during this period serving for two years as president of the council.

WTien Governor Currj- called for volunteers to defend the settlers in the Indian war of 1855, Mr. Kelly volunteered; raised a company at Oregon City and was elected its captain. With his command he crossed the Cascade Mountains over the Barlow road and joined other companies which had arrived at The Dalles. Here, in accordance with instructions from Governor Curry, an election for line officers was held, resulting in the choice of J. W. Nesmith as Colonel and Mr. Kelly as Lieutenant Colonel. Soon after the selection of regimental officers, Colonel Nesmith took five companies of the regiment and went into the Yakima country to pursue the hostile Indians, leaving Lieutenant Colonel Kelly with the left wing of the regiment at The Dalles. Lieutenant Colonel Kelly was subsequently ordered to proceed with his command to Fort Henrietta on the Umatilla River; where he arrived on the 29th of November, 1855. Learning soon after that the Indians were in force in the vicinity of Fort Walla Walla he determined to march upon them without delay. His command moved at night on the 2d of December, across the hills from the Umatilla River and on the 30th arrived at old Fort Walla Walla, now Wallula. On the 7th, while the troops were leaving the mouth of the Touchet, an engagement with the hostile Walla Wallas, Cayuses, Umatillas, Palouses and some of the Snake tribes, took place. The Indians were pursued a distance of seven miles from the mouth of the Touchet up the Walla Walla River in a running fight, until they made a temporary stand on Dry Creek, from which point they again fled a short distance beyond Dry Creek where they made a determined stand. Here a desperate battle occurred which lasted four days, resulting in the Indians being driven with great loss north of the Snake River, leaving the volunteers in full possession of the Columbia Valley north of Snake River. Lieutenant Colonel Kelly was highly complimented for the admirable way he handled his men. "The bravery of the volunteer and their gallant conduct in charging and dispersing the enemy time after time," says one historian, " is worthy of the highest praise. Veteran troops could not have done better service."

A few days after this encounter Lieut. Col. Kelly left his command and went to Salem in order to attend a session of the legislature of which he was a member. Before going, however, he had ordered an election to be held to fill the vacancy caused b}- the resignation of Col. Nesmith, which resulted in the selection of T. R. Cornelius, as Colonel. In March, 1856. following the close of the legislative session of that year, Lieut. Col. Kelly returned to Camp Curry where the troops were stationed and rejoined the regiment then under command of Col. Cornelius. He proceeded with the regiment a few days later into the Palouse country in pursuit of hostile Indians, enduring all the hardships and privations of this memorable campaign. After the return of the regiment. Col. Kelly was left in charge of the few troops in Walla Walla Valley, Col. Cornelius having gone into the Yakima country. Here he remained until May, 1856, when the regiment was mustered out of service. Thus ended the campaign, and the volunteers who had so valiantly fought in the field and endured uncomplainingly so many hardships, returned to their homes.

Colonel Kellv resumed the practice of law in Oregon City after his return from militarv dut\', and in 1857 was elected a member of the State Constitutional Convention, and three ^-ears later was elected State Senator to represent the counties of Clackamas and Wasco, for a term of four years. Soon after his election he was tendered the appointment of United States District Attorney by President Buchanan, but he declined the proffered honor, prefering to hold the ofRce of Senator.

Colonel Kelly's proficiency as a lawyer was soon recognized, and early in his residence at Oregon Cit\', he acquired a lucrative practice. The money he thus gained from his professional work he invested in extensive warehouses on the west side of the AVillamette Falls, but they were swept away by the great freshet of 1861, and he was left as poor as when he came to Oregon. He was undismayed by this misfortune and it simply had the effect to spur him on to greater exertion in his profession. In December, 1862, he removed to The Dalles, where he continued the practice of law until 1869. He was the democratic candidate for Congress in 1864, but the State was strongly republican and he was defeated.

In 1866, Col. Kelly was nominated for Governor by the democratic convention, his republican competitor being George Iv. Woods. It was a hotly contested election and the returns showed a majority of only a few votes over 300 for the republican candidate. This majority, a large body of the citizens of the State believed and insisted was caused bj- the fraudulent rejection of many democratic votes in Grant county. Ground for this belief was furnished by the fact that all the republican candidates in that county who assumed office upon the return of the votes primarily made at this election, were, after a full investigation of the frauds charged, declared not elected, and compelled to vacate their ofRces. The gubernatorial election was not contested in the State legislature, but upon a count of the votes returned. Governor Woods was declared to be elected by the then legislature. Two years later when the democrats had a majority in the legislature, many of the democratic members were disposed to recount the vote cast two years before, even against Col. Kelly's objection to such action. To avert this, most of the republican members resigned, leaving no quorum to transact business, taking this aiflion before any appropriations had been made for State or other purpose, and in consequence none were made until 1870.

In 1870, the democrats having control of the legislature, Col. Kelly was elected United States Senator. In this position he served the State with his accustomed efBcieucy. He was one of the attorneys who argued the Oregon eledlion case before the electoral commission of 1876, and in a long speech ably defended the position and actions of his party. After the expiration of his senatorial term he returned to Portland where he had located in 1869, and where he has since continued to reside.

Upon the re-organization of the judiciary of the State in 1878, and the formation of a separate Supreme Court, he was appointed Chief Justice, which position he held until July 1, 1880, since which he has pursued the practice of his profession, taking that place among his professional brethren which his long experience and high abilities as a lawyer and sterling qualities as a man, have ju.stl)' won.

Possessed of a strong taste for politics, Col. Kell}-, soon after his settlement in Oregon, was led to take an active part in the stirring political events which preceded the transition from territorial to State government. From that period, nntil his retirement from political life some j-ears ago, he wielded a power and influence which had an important bearing on many important measures. He has alwaj'S been a democrat and his unflinching adherence to and able defense of party principles endeared him to party associates, while his keen practical sense, honesty and integritjand strong personalitj-, uaturall)- made him a leader. As a lawyer Col. Kelly is earnest and honest in the assertion of the rights of his clients, careful in the preparation of cases, well versed in the principles of his profession, discriminating in the application of precedents and in the citation of authorities and skillful in the conduct of his causes. To these elements are combined those mental and moral qualifications requisite for an accomplished and successful advocate and counsellor. As Chief Justice of the highest court in the State, his opinions bore indubitable e\-idence of careful and extended research and showed the possession of an honest, clear, logical mind; the grasp of legal principles, the unfailing purpose and independent courage which surely led him to right conclusions. Indeed, it is but simple justice to say that during the two years he occupied this high judicial position he fully justified the confidence of his friends and firmly established an enviable reputation as a jurist.

Col. Kell}- was married in 1863 to Miss Mary Millar, daughter of Rev. James P. Millar, deceased. They have had two children, a son and a daughter.

MACLEAY, D0N.\LD, was born at Leckmelm, Ross Shire, Scotland, in August, 1834, and comes from an honorable ancestry. He was educated under a private tutor and at the academy in his native town. At the age of sixteen he accompanied his parents to Canada, settling on a farm near the village of Melbourne in the province of Quebec.

At the age of twenty Mr. Macleaj' began his business career in partnership with George K. Foster, a merchant at Richmond. Mr. Foster was a man of large means and of excellent business capacity and had much to do in moulding the character and forming the business methods of his young partner.

In 1866 Mr. Macleay became a partner with William Corbitt in the wholesale grocery, shipping and commission business in Portland, establishing the now widely known firm of Corbitt & Maclea)-. Their efforts were rewarded by almost immediate success and so rapid was the growth of their business that by the year 1870 they had acquired a high place among the leading merchants of the Northwest. With one exception they were the first to send wheat from Oregon to England, sending the vessel Adeline Ehvood in 1870. In the following year several vessels were consigned to them from Europe loaded with railroad iron and returned with cargoes of wheat. They were also among the first to perceive the future of the salmon trade ami earl)- engaged in canning salmon on the Columbia, exporting the first goods of this kind from Oregon.

The firm began trade with China, Australia and the Sandwich Islands in 1872-4, purchasing several vessels for their use in carrying on their business. Well deserved success awarded their efforts in this direction as had been their fortune in other business enterprises. A certain amount of their profits the partners agreed to invest in real estate. Mr. Maclea}- accordingly purchased real estate in Portland which during recent 3-ears has increased enormoush- in value, which with his prosperous business ventures in other directions has made him one of the wealthiest men of the city.

Mr. Macleay has always been a progressive, public spirited citizen and if great success has come to him he has also been generous with his time and means in aiding all enterprises which promised to add to the prosperity of his adopted citv and State. Through his exertions a large amount of foreign capital has been invested in Oregon. For many years he was local president of the Oregon and Washington Mortgage Savings Bank, of Dundee, Scotland. During late years he has been a director and chairman of the local board of the Dundee Mortgage and Trust Investment Company, of Scotland, through which corporation loans amounting to millions of dollars have been poured into the Northwest.

The work incident to the developement and continuance of the business which the firm of Corbitt & Macleay represent comprises but a part of the interests which Jlr. Macleay's activity and business management have largely created and placed upon a permanent and prosperous basis. He is a director in the Oregon and California Railway Company; in the Portland and Coast Steamship Company; in the Portland Telephone and Electric Light Company; in the Anglo-American Packing Company; in the Portland Cordage Company; in the North Pacific Industrial Association; the Portland Mariner's Home, and the Salem Flouring Mills Company. He has also been a director in the Portland Flouring Mills Company, the Oregon City Flouring Mills Company, the Ocean Ship Company, the Oregon Southern Improvement Company and vicepresident of the Oregon and California Railroad Company. In all of these corporations Mr. Macleay has been a stockholder and all of them have received the benefit of his business acumen, and practical experience.

The City of Portland has been enriched in many ways by his exertions in its behalf, ^\^latever has tended to the unbuilding of its commercial affairs has always found in him ready support and encouragement. The business community readily concedes the great value of hi? ser\-ices and as a mark of approval he was elected, in 1881, president of the Board of Trade, a position which he has ever since held, having thus been the recognized head of the mercantile comnmnit^- during the most prosperous years in the city's history. In all the measures the board has advocated, which have been acknowledged to have been wise and beneficial to the city, he has been foremost, never begrudging his time or means, if they promoted the general good.

The career of this practical, progressive business man has in every wav been most commendable. He is naturally a man of positive, well grounded convictions, and is open and candid in his avowal of them. His position on any questions of public policy is never one of doubt or hesitancy. His business career, his private and public life, are above reproach, and his honesty is of the character that needs no profession but makes itself felt upon all with whom he comes in contact. While absorbed in business, he has a social side, which leads him to seek and take delight in human association. For several years he was president of the British Benevolent and St. .Andrew's Societies of Portland, and is still a liberal member of botli organizations. He was one of the charter members, and at one time president of the .\rlingtou Club, the leading social organization of Portland. He has traveled extensively in Europe and America, and in 1878-9, made a tour of the world, the trip being of thirteen :nouths duration; but in most of his travels business is combined with pleasure, for his exteusive business interests in several European cities ofleu require his presence.

In personal appearance Mr. Macleay is spare in figure and of medium stature, while in features he unmistakably shows the true Scottish characteristics. He is a quiet, thoughtful, determined man, whom no success would undulv elate or no difficulties discourage. .\11 his life he has made haste slowly, but his mental processes are quick and he readily grasps and comprehends everything to which his attention is directed. He is thorough master of himself and always plans wisely and executes promptly. He is still in the full vigor of manhood, and his elastic constitution gives promise of many years of active usefulness.

Mr. Macleay was married in March, 1869, to Miss Martha MaccuUoch, daughter of Mr. John MaccuUoch, of Couiptou, Canada. Although a native of the Dominion she was of Scotch descent. She died on the 22d day of November, 1876. She was a devout Christian, a woman of cultivated mind, and her kiuduess of heart and many acts of charit}- and benevolence endeared her to all who knew her.

Of their four children, the two eldest daughters, Barbara Martha and Edith MaccuUoch are completing their education in England and the remaining daughter, Mabel Isabel, and the only son, Roderick Lachlan, are attending school in Portland.

T^eLASHMUTT, Van B., the present Mayor of Portland, was born iu Burlington, ^ Iowa, July 27, 1842. Ten years later the family came to the infant territory of Oregon, and settled on a farm in Polk county, in the Willamette Valle}-.

The monotonous life of a farmer's boy illy suited the naturally adventuresome disposition of young DeLashmutt, and at the age of fifteen he went to Salem, where he secured emplo3'nient iu the office of the Salem Statesman, as an apprentice to learn the printers' trade. With characteristic earuestness and energy the apprentice served three years, and at the end of that time came out a finished printer. Work in other offices occupied his time for the next year or more.

When the news that Fort Sumpter had been fired upon, in April 1861, and that President Lincoln had called for 100,000 troops, reached Oregon, young DeLashmutt determined to join the forces of the loyal North to suppress the rebellion. At that time the means of quick communication between the east and the Pacific coast were not very good, and iu order niore promptly to enlist in the cause, he went to Sau Francisco. Here, on the 2Sth of September, 1861, he became a member of Company G, Third Infantry California volunteers, commanded by Col. D. Edward Conner, afterwards promoted to General for gallant service at the battle of Bear River. The regiment was organized for ser\'ice in the south, but to the great disappointment of the enthusiastic and patriotic volunteers, they were sent to Utah to guard the overland route from the Nevada line to Julesburg. During its term of service, the regiment had mauy conflicts with the Indians and endured as much hardship and privation as most regiments at the front.

While stationed at Salt Lake City during the latter part of his enlistment, Mr. DeLashmutt and others of the command, began the publication of the Union Vidette, the first daily issued in the Mormon capital. It was issued for some years, and did good work in throwing hot shot into the camp of mormonism.

Some months after his discharge, Mr. DeLashmutt went to Nevada, lured there by the tales of sudden fortunes made in the recently discovered silver mines. He settled down in Washoe City and for a time was engaged in publishing the Washoe Times. In the winter of 1865-6 he returned to Oregon, and for two years held a printers' case on the Oregonian. With the money he saved during this period, he embarked in the grocery business at the corner of First and Tajdor streets. In 1869 he received H. B. Oatman as partner. The relation.ship continued for one year, when the business was sold, and Mr. DeLashmutt, for one 3-ear thereafter, engaged in the real estate business with G. C. Rider. In 1871, he opened a brokerage office with H. B. Oatman, his former partner. At this time, Mr. DeLashmutt, by prudent management, had gained a good foothold on the ladder of business success and was well prepared to take advantage of tlie general prosperity the inauguration of the railroad system in Oregon created, and from that time to the present he has been a positive force in the business community of Portland.

In September, 1882, with H. W. Scott, Judge W. W. Thayer and others, he incorporated the Metropolitan Savings Bank, with a capital of f 150,000. The inception of this institution was beset with many difficulties, but Mr. DeLashmutt soou showed that he had a positive genius for financiering and he so managed the affairs of the bank that it became a prosperous institution. His success was indeed phenomenal, and established on a high plane his reputation as an able and shrewd financier.

On the foundation laid by the success of the Metropolitan Savings Bank, was organized, on June 7, 1886, the Oregon National Bank of Portland, with a capital of $100,000, which was later on iucrea.sed to |200,000. Mr. DeLashmutt has been its president ever since its incorporation under whom its affairs have been so ably conducted, that an enormous business is being transacted, and a high standing in financial circles has been secured.

Perhaps Mr. DeLashmutt is best known outside of the city for his extensive mining enterjirises. He was among the first to recognize the richness and value of the mines of the Cceur d".\lene region. Here he early made large investments and he now owns a controlling interest in five of the largest mines in that wonderfullv rich quartz district, the Sierra Nevada, Stemwinder, Granite, California and the Inez. At their present value these mines are worth |2, 000, 000, and two of them ha\e declared dividends amounting to f 100,000. These mines will be a source of wealth for nian\- years to come, and their productive capacity will be largely increased b}- their further development.

It was in connection witli his mining enterprises that Mr. DeLashmutt rendered almost invaluable service to the citj- of Portland and the people of Oregon and Washington. With his usual sagacious foresight he saw that the joint lease of the Oregon Railway and Navigation Company to the Union Pacific and Northern Pacific was especiall}- inimical to the best interest of Portland as well as of the whole Northwest, and that the interest of this entire region was threatened with the stoppage of competitive transportation and the cessation of construction of much needed lines of railway. The danger was seen by many others but no one had the courage to tr}^ conclusions three of the most powerful corporations in the United .States. It was found that an iujimction suit was the only means of preventing the proposed consummation While others indulged in protestation and argument Mr. DeLashmutt was the only man of means who had the courage to enter the lists against the corporations. He bravely brought the injunction suit. This alarmed the railroad magnates and they sent for some of Portland's leading business men to come to New York to join them in a conference. Fair promises were made bj' the promoters of the joint lease scheme and every honorable means was employed to induce Mr. DeLashmutt to change his position and permit the consummation of the lease, but he stood firm and gave his final answer while en-route home when he wired from Chicago to Mr. Villard in New York City: "Whatever others may do I will not voluntarily dismiss the injunction suit." This courageous stand had the effect of defeating the proposed action and for it Mr. DeLashmutt is entitled to the thanks of the people of Portland and the State of Oregon. With the O. R. & N. Co., unincumbered Portland can hold her own against all competitors. Already the good effects of Mr. DeLashmutt's stand are apparent in the renewed activity of the O. R. cS: N. Co. to secure new territory and push its lines to Spokane Falls and the Coeur d'Alene mines.

In May, 1888, Mr. De Lashmutt was elected Mayor of Portland by the City Council to fill the unexpired term of Mayor Gates, deceased, and two months later was re-ele(fted by the people by the largest majority ever received by any Mayor. In this position he has now served for two years, and he has given the city an able administration of its affairs which has met the heartj' approval of the people. He has the administrative and executive ability which admirablj- fits him for public life. He has vigilantly ,'guarded the interests of Portland, and within the sphere of his ofScial authority has exercised the same care and good judgment which he has ever exhibited iu his private business affairs.

Progressive and public spirited, Mr. De Lashmutt has Ijorne a leading part in all the enterprises which for many years past have aided the general prosperit}' of Portland. He is a large propert}- holder here and all his interests are linked with the city's welfare. As a business man he is especialh- noted for the quickness with which he grasps the most complicated details and the steadfastness which plans once determined upon are pursued. He possesses a certain boldness in his business methods which conies only to those who are complete masters of the work they intend to do and who have confidence in their own judgment. No one is more careful and conservative than he, but when he fidly determines on a course of adlion he is as firm as a rock and has no lack of courage to face ever}' consequence which may arise. He is now in the very prime and vigor of manhood, full of life, energy and enterprise, and, with abundant means to carr}' on his rapidly increasing enterprises and support his financial responsibilities, it is safe to presage that still greater emoluments and honors await him in the years to come.

He was married in Portland in 1869, to a daughter of Rev. Albert Kelh', who came to Oregon in 1S50. The children of Mr. and Mrs. De Lashmutt are two sons and a daughter. The family home, situated at the corner of Twelfth and Columbia streets, is a beautiful one. and Mrs. De Lashmutt is well known among the de.serving poor for charity and kindness.

GREEN, Henry D., for many years a prominent figure in the commercial affairs of Portland, was bom in Tompkins county, New York, Odlober 16, 1825. Shortly after attaining his majority, in 1853, he came to Oregon and established himself at Astoria, in partnership with W. Irving Leonard. This firm purchased the mercantile business house of Leonard & Green, which was established at that point in 1850, by John Green and H. C. Leonard, at that date the onh- mercantile house, except the Hudson Bay Compan\-'s trading post, at the mouth of the Columbia river.

He remained at Astoria until 1856, when he closed out his business and removed to Portland. The city was then just beginning to be a place of commercial importance and his natural business abilities found a congenial field. In 1858, he procured from the legislature of the State and the cit\- council of Portland the franchise for the present gas works of the city, and in connedtion with his brother, John Green, H. C. Leonard and Captain Wm. L. Dall, of the Pacific Mail Steamship Company, completed, in 1859, the erection of the first gas works in Oregon, and third upon the Pacific Coast, those of San Francisco and Sacramento City being the only ones at that date in operation. He was the superintendent and general manager of the Portland works from their inauguration until his death and the prosperous financial history of this corporation was largely due to his sagacious generalship.

In 1861, Mr. Green, in connection with his brother and H. C. Leonard, purchased the Portland water works from the original grantee, Robert Pentland. .\t that time the whole plant consisted of less than one mile of small wooden pipe, and the source of water supplv was the small stream in Caruther's canyon, where a pump was located in the saw mill at the foot of Mill street. Mr. Green at once commenced the foundations of the present water system of the city. He was president of the company and at the date of his death, the corporation had gro^vn to be one of the strongest in the cit}-. The plant had been yearly increased to keep pace with the growth of the city until over thirty miles of iron mains, from three to thirt\' inches, had been laid within and without the citj-. The three reservoirs now in use and the substantial pumping works, with a daily capacity of 12,000,000 gallons were constructed under his personal supervision. Besides these two corporations, he was one of the principal promoters of and a dire(5tor in the original Oregon Iron Works Company, at Oswego, which company ereAed the first works for smelting iron ores and the manufacture of pig iron on the Pacific Coast, and which is now merged into the extensive Oregon Iron and Steel Company.

In all of the various public enterprises to which Mr. Green devoted the prime of his life, he exerted a powerful influence, and was one of the most public spirited citizens of Portland. He was a man of excellent business judgment and far-seeing sagacity, and one to whom the management of large enterprises furnished a fitting scope for his wonderful physical and mental energies.

The death of this successful and popular citizen was most sudden and unexpected, lu the month of February, 1885, while apparently in his usual robust health, he made a trip to the Atlantic States. In March, while in New York, attending to some business engagement and expecting soon to start for his home, he was stricken down and died before any of his family knew he was ill. The news of his death was a shock to the entire comnmnity where for nearh' thirty years he had been such a well known and prominent character. Thus suddenly ended the career of this genial hearted pioneer of Portland. Nature had dealt kindly with him, indeed. He was a man of commanding figure and unusually graceful person. He was a self poised character, a man who rose to wealth without resorting to oppression and one whose courage was onlj- equalled b\- his modesty. Faults he had, as men have had before him, but they were those common only to men of generous natures. Kindly will he be remembered by all who ever knew the sterling worth of his character ; by all who came within the infltience of a nature as frank as a bo3''s and of a heart as warm and tender as a woman's.

For j'ears Mr. Green resided with his famil}- in the lower part of the cit)-, but, in 1873, he purchased at the head of B street one of the most picturesque of the man)' sunny slopes which girt the western limits of the city, known as "Cedar Hill." Here with spacious grounds beautifully laid out, he erected a house, which for the majestic panorama of river, mountain and forest it commands is not excelled on the Pacific Coast. The adornment of this delightful site was an unfailing source of pleasure to him and the superb taste he displayed is evinced on every hand. It was, indeed, the fitting abode of a man whose chief delight was in his home and whose friends were a loyal legion.

Mr. Green was united in marriage in Portland, in 1863, to Miss Charlotte Jones, who, with four children - two sons and two daughters - survive him, and reside in the lovely home his artistic eye had designed, and which is hallowed h\ so nianv pleasant memories.

MITCHELL, John H. For a quarter of a century- the subject of this sketch has been one of the most prominent figures in the political history of Oregon. Becoming a citizen of the State soon after it was invested with the sovereign dignit}' of statehood, he at once became an active man in the political arena, and so rapid was the growth of his influence that within six j-ears he had served a term with distinguished credit in the State Senate, and was the choice of a large body of his party associates for the highest office the State had to bestow. This distinction, that his friends thus earl}' in his career desired to confer upon him, was deferred but a few years later, when he was elected to the position of United States Senator, and is now serving a second term. His career in the highest Legistative body in the United States has been an aflive one and covers a period the most prolific in grand results in the historj' of the Pacific Northwest.

He was born in Washington County, Pennsylvania, on the 22d day of June, 1835. During his infancy his parents moved to Butler County, Penns)-lvania, where he was reared on a farm and acquired the rudiments of an English education at the district school. At the age of seventeen years he began teaching in a country school and after spending several winters in this way he realized sufficient money to pay his tuition at Butler Academy, in Butler County, and subsequently at Witherspoon Institute. After completing the full course at both of these institutions he conmienced the studv of law in the office of Hon. Samuel A. Purviance, formerh- member of Congress irom that district, and later Attornej-General of the State under Governor Curtain. After two years studj- he was admitted to the Bar in Butler County, by Hon. Daniel Agnew - lately Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of the State of Pennsvlvania, and then presiding Judge of that district - in the spring of 1857. He then began the practice of his profession at Butler, in partnership with Hon. John M. Thompson - since a member of the National House of Representative from that distridt - and was thus engaged until April, 1860, when he came to California. For a short time thereafter he practiced law at San Luis Obispo, and later for a brief time in San Francisco. The fame of Oregon, as a young and growing commonwealth, had.

in the meantime attracted his attention, and he determined to link his fortunes with the new State. With this end in view he arrived in Portland, July 4, 1860, where he has ever since resided.

With that same energy which has been so conspicuous in his career, he not only at once turned his attention to building up a legal practice, but took an adlive part in local politics. So quickly did he make his influence felt that in 1861, he was eledted corporation counsel of Portland. The succeeding year he was nominated and elected by the Republican party to the Oregon State Senate, in which body he served four vears. During the first two years of his term he was Chairman of the Judiciary Committee, and the last two years he held the position of President of the Senate. At the close of his Senatorial term he received every mark of approval from his immediate constituents, and in 1866, strenuous efforts were made by his political friends to secure him a seat in the United States Senate. They only failed to elevate him to this exalted position through the lack of oue vote in the caucus, his competitor for the nomination being Governor Gibbs, who received twentj'-one votes and Mr. Mitchell twenty-. In 1865, he was commissioned Lieutenant Colonel of the State militia by Governor Gibbs, and two years later was chosen Professor of Medical Jurisprudence in Willamette LTuiygrsity at Salem, Oregon, and served in that position for nearly four years. During all of this time he was engaged in the adlive pradlice of his profession in Portland. In Odlober, 1862, he formed a law partnership with Hon. J. N. Dolph, now his colleague in the United States Senate, which continued until January-, 1873, wheu he resigned all other engagements to enter upon his duties as United States Senator. During this period he had acquired a reputation as a lawyer second to none in Oregon, and was constantly emplo^-ed in important litigation. For several years he was the attorney of the Oregon and California Railroad Company and the North Pacific Steamship Transportation Company-, while his practice extended to all the Courts, Federal, State and Territorial of Oregon, Washington and Idaho.

In September, 1872, Mr. Mitchell was nominated, in caucus, b}- the Republican members of the State Legislature for United States Senator, receiving the votes of over two-thirds of all the republicans in the Legislature on the first ballot. On September 28, 1872, he was elected by the Legislature in joint session as United States Senator for the term of six years commencing March -1, 1873. In this body he soon took a prominent position. He was assigned to duty on the following committees: Privileges and Election, Commerce, Claims, Transportation Routes to the Seaboard, and Railroads. At the end of two years he was made chairman of the Committee on Railroads and served as such until the end of his term. When the Electoral Commission was organized. Senator Oliver P. M'jrton was chairman of the Senate Committee on Privileges and Election, but having been chosen a member of the Electoral Commission, Senator Mitchell was made acting chairman of the Committee on Privileges and Election, which committee, for the purpose of taking charge of the great controversy involved in the presidential contest of 1876, in the States of Oregon, Louisiana, South Carolina and Florida, was then increased from nine, the ordinar3' number, to fifteen Senators. As acting chairman. Senator Mitchell presided over the committee during all the investigations which followed and which at the time attracted so much interest all over the country. He was also selected by the unanimous vote of the republicans in the senate as the senator to appear before the

Electoral Commission and argue the Oregon case. This duty lie performed and in a long speech ably presented the legal questions involved, and to the perfect satisfaction of his party friends defended the position taken by the republicans of Oregon. During his first term he was on several occasions selected by^ the republican majoritjas chairman of sub committees to visit South Carolina, Lousiana and Florida for the purposes of investigating contested elections.

In April, 1S73, Senator Mitchell, and Senator Casserly, of Caliifornia, were appointed a sub-committee of the committee on Transportation Routes to the Sea-boards, to visit the Pacific coast and investigate and report upon the best means of opening the Columbia River to free navigation. It was in this position that he had opportunity to do a great service for Oregon. .Soon after his appointment on the committee, .Senator Casserly resigned his seat in the Senate, and Senator Mitchell was authorized to proceed alone. He thereupon, during the summer of 1873, made a most careful investigation as to improvements necessarv to increase the navigation facilities of the Columbia River, and at the next session of Congress submitted an elaborate report to the committee on Transportation Routes - Senator Windom, of Minnesota being chairman - in which he recommended, among other things, large appropriations for the mouth of the Columbia River, and also an appropriation for a sur\-ey at the Cascades, with the view of ascertaining the cost and advisability of constructing canal and locks. This report, as written bv .Senator Mitchell, was incorporated into the report of the committee without alteration, and submitted to the Senate, and based on this report, Congress at its ne.xt session, made an appropriation for a survey for canal and locks at the Cascades, which paved the wav for their subsequent construction.

At the expiration of his senatorial term, March +, 1S79, the legislature of Oregon was democratic, and Hon. James H. Slater, a democrat, was elected as his successor, whereupon Mr. Mitchell resumed the practice of his profession at Portland. In the fall of 1882, he was urged by party friends to again submit his name as a candidate for United States Senator, the legislature at that time being republican. Aflermuch hesitation he consented to do so, and in the legislative caucus received on the first ballot the votes of two-thirds of all the republicans in the legislature, and thus became the nominee of the part}- again for United States vSenator. .\ l>olt, however, was organized and he was not elected. The contest, however, was continued from day to dav, until the last day and the last hour of the forty- days' session. During the most of this time he was within a few votes of an election. It required forty-six votes to elect, and during the session he received the votes of forty-five difi^erent members. Finding an election impossible, although urged by his supporters to continue in the fight to the end, and, if not elected himself, thus prevent the election of any one else, he withdrew from the contest during the last hours of the session, and all of his supporters, except one, who had so earnestly stood b}' him during fortv days, gave their votes for Hon. J. N. Dolph, who was elected. Throughout this long contest, without parallel in the political history of the State, for the bitter personal character of the fight. Senator Mitchell apparently lo.st none of his personal popularity, and after the adjournment of the legislature upon his return from Salem to Portland, was tendered a receptiou whicli iu warmth and cordiality partook more of an ovation to a successful than to a defeated candidate.

After his defeat Mr. Mitchell resumed the pradlice of his profession, and although earnestly urged by party friends again to permit the use of his name as a candidate for the United States Senate, at the regular .session of the Legislature, in January, 1885, he peiemptorilj- declined to do so. The Legislature, however, after balloting through the whole session adjourned without making an election. The Governor of the State thereupon called a special session of the Legislature to meet in November, 1885. Senator Mitchell at that time was in Portland, and although not personally desirous to be a candidate, and steadily refusing to permit the use of his name until within three or four days before the eledlion, he was on the 19th of November again eledted to the United States Senate, receiving on the second ballot in joint convention the votes of three-fourths of all the Republicans and one half of all the Democrats of the Legislature, having on this ballot a majority of twenty-one votes. He was at this time elected to succeed Hon. James H. Slater, and took his seat December 17, 1885, when he was assigned to dutj- on the following committees: Railroads, Transportation Routes to the ,Sea-boards. Claims, Mines and Mining. Post-offices and Post-roads, and special committee to superintend tlie construction of a national library. After a year's service he was made chairman of the committee on Transportation Routes to the Seaboards, and in March, 1889, was made chairman of the committee on Railroads. He is still representing Oregon at the National Capital, his term of service in the Senate not expiring until March 3, 1891.

Mr. Mitchell is a man of remarkable euergv and untiring industry, and throughout his public career has been distinguished for keen discrimination and quick grasp of great and intricate questions. Without intending to make comparison with the able senators who have represented Oregon, at Washington, it is not too much to say that none have more full)' met all the demands made upon their time and energies than Senator Mitchell. The request of the humblest of his constituents has alwa3's received at his hands his careful, considerate personal attention, while no labor or sacrifice however great, has for a moment deterred him from undertaking whatever was in his power to do for the best interests of the State. He is well equipped b\- nature, training and experience for high public station. He is a successful lawyer of acknowledged ability in every branch of a most difficult profession; is a forcible speaker, and possesses the tact, sound judgment and eminently practical views, without which the most brilliantly endowed men often prove such lamentable failures. Wliole-souled, generous and S3-mpathetic in nature and true as steel in his friendship lie has surrounded himself with a host of friends whose loyalty he as w-armly reciprocates. Indeed it can be said that no man in public or private life in Oregon ever had a more devoted personal following than Senator Mitchell. His'unswer\'ing adherence to the principles of the republican party and his fidelity to his friends are distinguishing traits in his character.

Personally Senator Mitchell is a man of striking presence and one who would arrest attention in anj- gathering of men. He is an interesting conversationalist; has a diredl, forceful way of talking, while his ready grasp of any subject discussed would mark him as a man of no common mold of mind. He is a man of polished address and of naturally courteous manner - one who would win respe(5tful recognition any where and easily gain the good will and confidence of his fellows. O. F. V.

THAYER, William Wallace. The typical Western man- is popularly conceived as a man of liberal ideas, of generous and hospitable instindts, imbued with a spirit of adventurous enterprise, and withal hardy and courageous. He is not punctilious in minor questions of etiquette or inclined to make much of mere forms and ceremonies. He is a friend to his friends, a man of sterling integrity and of firmness of character developed by habits of self-reliance. Such men are the State builders whose names and deeds are a part of the history of the newer States of the .\merican Commonwealth. Every western community contains indi\-iduals approaching more or less near this ideal type.

Throughout Oregon, genial and democratic "Governor" Thayer, as he is familiarly called, is recognized as an example of the typical western man. Personallv known as he is in every section of the State, his friends are almost as numerous as his acquaintances. Although it has frequently become his duty during the course of his public career to oppose men and measures which seemed to him not in accord with the best interests of the State, and when such occasions have transpired his firm and decisive course show him a man earnest of purpose and unwavering in matters of judgment, he has nevertheless maintained the respect, nay, the affeiftions of the citizens, so that even those who have experienced his opposition have recognized his purity and unselfishness of motive.

William Wallace Thayer is a native of the Empire State, having been born at Lima, Li\'ingstou county, New York, on the 15th day of July, 1827. His father was a man of influence in Western New York, and is well remembered in the vicinity of his home, for his vigor and uprightness of character and as having taken an active part in local political affairs. Besides the subject of this sketch, he had several other sons, the eldest of whom. Judge A. J. Thayer, came to Oregon at an early da^- and died in July, 1873, while Judge of the Supreme Court of this State. The children received the usual education of the times and circumstances of Western New York at that period, consisting chiefly of spelling book and "Rule of Three" exercises in the winter at the neighborhood school. .\s the community increased in population, and farm products could be converted into money with greater facility, the family became prosperous and acquired some little property, and were enabled to live in comfort. The eldest son, .\ndrew J. Tha3-er, above mentioned, studied law and was admitted to practice, and his example was emulated by his young brother, William or "Wall," as he was usually called. The latter evinced at an early age an aptitude for his books and indulged in an extensive course of reading, particularly in works of histon,-, biography and travel.

Devoting himself to his preparation for his adopted professiou, he shaped his reading accordingly, and especially in constitutional history and the elementary principles of the common law, his study laid the foundation for the broad knowledge of the law that distinguished him in later years. He attended a few lectures at Rochester. New York, in the winter of 1851, although nio.st of his legal study was done in the office of a local practitioner at Tonawanda, New York. He was admitted to the bar of the Supreme Court, in March, 1851, at Rochester, and at once began to practice at Tonawanda. He was married there November 11, 1852, to Miss Samantha C. Vincent, having already gained a foothold in his profession, and to the congenial union thus formed no doubt his success in after vears has been largely due. One son has been born to them, Charles Thayer, at present a lawyer and banker at Tillamook, Oregon.

Desiring a wider field for his energies, young Thaj'er determined to remove from Touawauda, and at first went to Buffalo, N. Y., where he practiced his profession for a short time, but probably owing to the example and invitation of his elder brother, he sold out his possessions in the sprin.s; of 1862, and as many a man of enterprise had done before, pushed out overland to Oregon. He joined his brother at Corvallis, Oregon, and for a time they were in partnership, but later he removed to Lewiston, Idaho. Here he was elected a memljer of the Territorial Legislature and ser\'ed one term. Again in 1S66, he was eletted District Attorney of the Third Judicial District of the Territory. He did not complete his term in the latter office, for in 1867, he resigned and removed to Portland, where he has since made his home.

On returning to Oregon he was in the prime of life and the full maturity of his powers. He was just forty years of age, and his varied experience, together with his habit of constant and unremitting study of his cases, thoroughly prepared him to compete with the best legal talent of the State. His abilities were at once recognized and his pradtice speedily assumed large proportions. He was always a staunch supporter of the Democratic party, though tolerant and little inclined to carry partisanship to excess in local affairs.

In 1878, he was nominated by his party for the office of Governor of the State, and such was his popularity that he was elected over his opponent, although the remainder of his ticket was defeated. He was inaugurated September 11, 1878, and served the full term of four 3'ears.

During this period the abilities of Governor Thayer had ample scope for their exercise, and he did not rest until the public service had been thoroughly reorganized, abuses corrected, reforms instituted and improvements effected in all of the State institutions. The penitentiary system was changed, so that instead of a source of heavy expense to the State, and an aid to the utter demoralization of the convicts therein, it was made self-supporting, and a credit to the State in a humanitarian as well as in a financial sense. Through his influence the asj-lum for the insane, the asj'lum for the blind and the school funds were put on a more satisfactory basis. It was during his term that the judiciary system was altered and a statute enacted, providing for the electing of the judges of the Supreme and Circuit Courts in separate classes, instead of the original arrangement by which the Circuit Judges sat as Judges of the Supreme Court, and in appointing the new Judges to serve until their successors were elected and qualified. In making appointments to office his fairness and liberality were illustrated by his appointment of men irrespective of their political affiliations and wliollj- upon their merits and with a view to the public weal. Important legislation regarding the State swamp lands and tide lands was had during his administration, and as a member of the Board of Commissioners for the sale of school lands. Governor Tha3-er had occasion to construe and apply these statutes. In this as well as in all other matters his aim was to deal justly by both State and people and while he endeavored to act in all cases for the best interests of the State he allowed no shallow desire for popularity to influence him in his decisions. The peculiar characteristics of his administration was its economy. He applied to the public service true business principles and he made use of the same unostentatious and upright methods that mark his private life.

He resumed his practice at Portland at the close of his term, 1)Ut he was the unanimous choice of the delegates to the State convention of his party in lS8-t for the office of Judge of the Supreme Court, and was again triumphantlj' elected when few of the candidates of that party succeeded. He assumed the duties of that office July 1, 1884, and his term expires July 1, 1890. Since 1888, by virtue of the Constitution, he has been Chief Justice of the Court.

A history of his life would be incomplete without a survey of the more important cases which have come before him for decision and a discussion of his opinions rendered therein. It is not possible here to do more than to state, in general, that while his term has covered the most important period of the legal growth of the State, and as new questions of prime importance become more numerous from term to term as the volume of business in the State increases, the high estimation which has heretofore been accorded to his legal abilities has not been diminished by his decisions on the bench. His untiring industry, coupled with his broad knowledge of principles and cases is manifest, while a certain equity of character and an innate love of justice temper his views of the law in the abstract and often interv-enes to soften its asperities in its application to cases. He is little inclined to deny a remedy in a just cause on account of trivial mistakes in procedure, but laying aside niceties of practice so far as can properly be done, his aim is to seek the real point in controversy and do justice between man and man.

Of his private character, his charity, his democratic tastes, his affability and sense of honor little need be said. His success at the bar. in so far as it may be ascribed to any one characteristic more than to his general ability and learning, m^}- perhaps be said to lie in the singular clearness with which he discusses the proper legal remedy to the facts of his case, and as a Judge he is especially marked for his full and fair statement of the case before enunciating the principles of law to be applied thereto.

MONTGOMERY, J. B. This well known citizen, though not among those who came to Portland at the earliest day of the city's history to lay here the foundations of municipal and commercial greatness, is a prominent and representative man of the reinforcement that came when Portland was just beginning her larger growth; and to this reinforcement much of the credit of the city's remarkable progress is due.

James Bovce Montgomery was born at Montgomery's Ferr)-, on the Susquehanna river, in the State of Pennsylvania, twenty-five miles north of Harrisburg. on the 6th of December, 1832. He went to school until he was sixteen years of age, when he was sent to Philadelphia to learn the typographical art. During several years he worked in the office of the well known Evening Bulletin, of that city, and became an expert printer. By the year 1853. he had shown that there was good stuff in him, when he was tendered an associate editorial position on the Sandusky (Ohio) Daily Register, by Gov. Henrj- D. Cooke. In this position he displayed so much \'igor and ability that he Was soon asked to take editorial charge of the Pittsburg Morning Post. This offer he accepted, and soon became one of the proprietors of the paper. The paper was successful under his charge, but Mr. Montgomery saw wider opportunities for activity in the railroad development of Pennsylvania, just then beginning; so he sold out his interest in the paper to Col. James P. Barr, his co-proprietor, who continued its publication with great success till his death many years later.

with two associates, Mr. Montgomery, in 1858, took a contraft to build a bridge across the Susquehanna at Linden, Pa., for the Philadelphia & Erie railroad. The contracft was completed successfully, some money was made by it, and this work opened the way to other undertakings. In 1859, Mr. Montgomerj- took a contradl to build the Bedford & Hopewell railroad in Pennsylvania, and in 1861, in association with Capt. William Lowthes, he undertook to build the Nesquehoning Valley railroad in the same State; but the breaking out of the great rebellion and the difEcultj' of obtaining labor caused suspension of the work. Mr. Montgomery completed the road, however, in 1868-69. Meantime he had continued work at intervals as contradtor for the Philadelphia & Erie railroad, and, in 1866, became one of its dire<ftors; in which position he remained till 1869. Among other works executed by him was the coustruiftion in 1866 of a wire bridge across the Susquehanna river at Williamsport, Pennsylvania.

Mr. Montgomery was also one of the owners of the charter of the Baltimore & Potomac railroad, and in connexion with Thomas A. Scott, George W. Cass, Joseph D. Potts and J. Donald Cameron, bore an active part in securing construAion and completion of this most important highway between the city of Baltimore and the National Capital. He was also interested in the completion of 400 miles of the Kansas Pacific, extending into Denver. His career as a contractor and builder was very a(5tive throughout this whole period, and very successful. His natural energy brushed aside all obstacles and led him directly to the fulfillment of his objecfls.

In 1870 he came to the Pacific Coast, and in 1871 to Oregon. LTpon his arrival he offered to build the first portion of the Pacific Division of the Northern Pacific Railroad, and the contract was awarded him against fifteen other bidders. He built over 100 miles of this road, and also erected the drawbridge over the Willamette River, at Harrisburg, in this State, for the Oregon & California Railroad.

In 1879, Mr. Montgomery went to Scotland for the purpose of organizing a corporation which subsequently built or acquired 163 miles of railroad in the Willamette Valley. Of this road Mr. Montgomery himself built 78 miles. in Scotland, he brought about the organization of the company, then contracted for rails at Stockton-on-the-Tees, and proceeded to London, where he chartered the ships St. Louis and Childers to bring them out. On his wa)- across the Atlantic he had made the acquaintance on the steamer of a Captain Gilmore, who informed him that he was on his way to Cardiff to bring out the ship Edwin Reed, with a cargo of rails for a line in the Willamette Valley, to be constructed by a company organizing in Great Britain for the purpose; but Mr. Montgomery, by the celerity of his movements, not only was first in getting a company organized, but had his rails at Portland six weeks before Captain Gilmore arrived with the Edwin Reed.

Since coming to Oregon Mr. Montgomery has been full of work of many kinds. He has executed for the government of the United States large contracts on the channels of the Columbia and Snake Rivers, requiring the removal of vast masses of rock, particularly at John Da}' Rapids. He has built and operated large steam saw mills at Skamokawa, on the Columbia River, in the State of Washington, known as the Columbia River Lumber and Manufacturing Company's Mills, and has constructed for himself, on the river front at Albina, just below Portland, large docks and warehouses.

Though always an active man of business, Mr. Montgomery has taken a constant interest in politics. In his earlier years he aifled with the Democratic part}', but differing with it on the question of slavery, he joiner! the Republican partv in 1860, and voted for Abraham Lincoln. Since then he has a(fled steadily with the Republican party. He was a delegate from his county, (Lycoming), in Pennsylvania, to the Republican Conventions in that State, in 1866, 1867 and 1868, and in the convention of 1866 was on the Conmiittee on Resolutions with Thaddeus Stevens, Wayne McVeagh and others, wliich committee reported a resolution recommending the nomination of General Grant for the Presidency. This was the first State Convention to present the name of Grant to the country as a Presidential candidate. The same committee also formulated resolutions urging, substantially, the policy of reconstruction of the States lately in rebellion, that was subsequently adopted. It was the policy of that courageous statesman, Thaddeus Stevens, and was maintained persistently against the views of Andrew Johnson, who argued that the old slave States should be re-admitted with their ante-bellum constitutions unchanged, except to have recognition of the abolition of slavery.

Though Mr. Montgomery has always felt a deep interest in politics, he had never till the present year (1890), been a candidate for any office. By the Republican County Convention of Multnomah Count}-, he was this year named as a candidate for the Legislature. As these sheets go to press the eleAion is a month distant.

In the year 1861, he was married to Miss Rachel Anthon}-, daughter of Hon. Joseph B. Anthony, of Lycoming County, Pennsylvania. This lady died in 1863, leaving one son; he was again married in 1866 to Miss Mar\' Phelps, only daughter of Gov. John S. Phelps, of Missouri.

Mr. Montgomery is known as a man of great acclivity and energy; his mind is fertile in resources; he is a man of business and affairs, possesses great force of chara(fter, allows no obstacles to intimidate him, and has beeu uniformly successful in his undertakings. Few men throughout the Northwest are so well known for the intelligent energy that accomplishes whatever it proposes.

DEKUM, Frank. For many years the subject of this sketch has occupied a commanding position in the commercial and financial history of Portland. His career and achievements forcibly illustrate what ma}' be accomplished by one who pursues earnest purposes and makes right use of his opportunities. Coming to Portland before it had outgrown the limits of an insignificant hamlet, he has grown with its growth until to-day he is one of the leading men of finance in the metropolis of Oregon.

He was born in Bavaria, Germany, November 5, 1829. -At the age of eight years he accompanied his parents to America, the family consisting of seven children. They settled on a farm in St. Clair couuty, Illinois. Here the boyhood of young Dekum was passed, and during this period, owing to the humble circumstances of his parents, he can hardly be said to have received any educational advantages, as but one winter in a log school house completed his opportunities in this direcfliou. What he has since acquired in the way of an education has been gained by self application and in the great school of experience. He remained with his father assisting him in the management of the farm until he reached the age of sixteen, when desiring to engage in some work which offered greater opportunities for advancement, he left home and went to St. Louis. Here he secured a position in a confectionery store as an apprentice to learn the trade of a confeftioner. Having acquired a trade he determined to seek his fortune in the West. He had at this time read of the far away Territory of Oregon and was so much impressed by the stor\- that he determined to visit the region. With only enough money to pay his passage b}- water, he left St. Louis on February 2, 1852, on a steamer via New Orleans, bound for the Isthmus of Panama. After a voyage of some four months he arrived in San Francisco, and being without funds he immediately went to work in the California mines where he continued until the spring of 1853 when he came to Portland. For a short time after his arival he worked in a bakery, but in Jul\-, 1853, with Frederick Bickel, established the first fruit and confectionery store in Portland, under the well remembered firm of Dekum & Bickel. They had limited means at the start but both had practical experience in the business, and their trade soon grew to large proportions. Money gained in this enterprise the partners judiciously invested in real estate, and from this small beginning has grown the large fortune each possesses to-day. The firm was dissolved in 1878 after a continuance of a quarter of a century.

In 1880 Mr. Dekum became one of the incorporators of the Portland Savings Bank, au institution which has had a most successful career. He also took a leading part in securing the establishment of the Commercial National Bank of Portland, which was incorporated January 4, 1886. He was ele(?l;d president of the Portland Savings Bank in 1886, and at the same time vice-president of the Commercial National Bank, both of which positions he still holds. Though his connections with these two financial establishments consume the greater portion of his time, he is also interested in several other enterprises of important charadter.

In all of his business enterprises, Mr.Dekum has exhibited rare judgment, and has accumulated a large fortune. Progressive and public spirited he has barne a leading part in nearly ever^' enterprise which has aided the upbuilding of Portland. In business and financial management, he has proved himself to be a force in this community, while the integrity' of his course both public and private, command respect and esteem. He is charitable, and generously contributes to aid worthy objects. He is a charter member of the German Aid Society, which was established twenty years ago to render financial assistance to all of German birth who might be in need. He has always taken a warm interest in the establishment and maintenance of educational institutions, and was especially active in securing the organization of the present free school system.

Among the first of the citizens of Portland to foreses the destinj- of the city, Mr. Dekum, at an early day, began the erection of large and solid buildings, putting in i:ioney in advance of the general growth of the city and leading the way to the development that has since followed.

Mr. Dekum bore a leading part in carrying out the novel idea of introducing into Oregon the song birds of Germany. In fact the idea originated with him, and in June, 1888, he secured the organization of a society for the introduction of these birds into Oregon. Mainly through his efforts a fund of $1,700 was raised by contribution of German, American and English citizens, and a contracfl was made with a resident of the famous Herz Mountains to capture and deliver ta the society all of the song-birds specified that were natives of that district.

He was also the prime mover in the organization of the old Portland Mechanic's Fair Association, and the magnificent buildings and grounds of the North Pacific Industrial Association are entirely due to his public spirit and untiring energy. Both of these industrial expositions have been of incalculable benefit to the city and State, and important factors in promoting the mechanical arts, mining and other great industries of the Pacific Northwest.

Mr. Dekum was married in 1859 to Miss Fanny Reinig, of St. Louis, who died in 1877. They had eight children, five sons and three daughters, all of whom are living in Portland.