Portland, Oregon - Portland, Oregon, Its History and Builders : in Connection with the An (part 3 of 25)

The City Of Portland 71

After reaching Portland Mr. Patterson began learning the plasterer's trade with Napoleon Kennedy, who was one of the pioneer plastering contractors of Portland. He worked as a journeyman for some time and gained an expert knowledge of and skill in the business. About eighteen years ago he formed a partnership with Michael Harris, of whom mention is made on another page of this volume, and for twelve years they were associated in business, during which time various important contracts in their line were awarded them. On the expiration of that period the partnership was dissolved and Mr. Patterson has since been alone. He does a general line of plastering and has been engaged in this way on the interior finishing of many of the business houses, private residences, and apartment houses. It is said that he has plastered more apartment houses than any man in this city, including all those erected by W. L. Morgan, who stands first among the builders of apartments in Portland. Mr. Patterson's business has long since reached extensive and profitable proportions, indeed, there are few who equal him in the amount of business in his line, and as success has rewarded him he has made judicious investments in property, being now the owner of considerable valuable real estate in this city.

On the 2d of August, 1890, Mr. Patterson was united in marriage to Miss Anna B. Inman, a daughter of L. F. Inman, a native of New York. They became the parents of five children : Flora, who is now attending the Portland high school ; Claude, Edith and Frederick, who are all in school ; and Donald. The wife and mother died on the 26th of October, 1909, and her death was a deep blow to many friends as well as to the immediate members of the family. Mr. Patterson has always voted with the republican party and yet has never been a politician in the sense of office seeking, preferring to give his undivided time and attention to his business afi^airs which, capably conducted, have brought him to a prominent position on the plane of affluence. In manner he is quiet and unpretentious, but his genuine worth and thorough reliability are recognized by all who have had business dealings with him.

William L. Mallory

William L. Mallory, proprietor of the Oregon Live Stock Exchange and Burnside Stables, was born on a farm in Allegany county. New York, January 4, 1857, and in the year 1868 came with his parents to the northwest. His father, Augustus Mallory, who died January 29, 1906, in Jeiiferson, Oregon, was one of the early residents of Morrow county, this state. He removed from Marion county to Morrow county in the summer of 1870, after a two years' residence in the former county following his arrival in the northwest after his emigration from Pennsylvania. He had lived in the Keystone state for four years, previous to which time he had been a resident of New York. He was engaged in the live-stock business in Morrow county for five years, after which he removed to Heppner. He served as justice of the peace in the town for many years and subsequently was county judge of Morrow county. He took an active part in the public life of the community and was regarded as one of the leading and influential citizens. He was born in Connecticut and when a young man removed to the state of New York. There he married Miss Mary Jane Burrows, who died July 4, 1902.

William L. Mallory was largely reared upon his father's farm in Morrow county, Oregon, and following the removal of his father's family to Heppner operated the farm for several years. Subsequently he conducted a sawmill in Morrow county for fifteen years and later took up his abode upon a farm at lone. Morrow county, situated on Willow creek. He there owned two hundred and forty acres of rich and productive land and continued its cultivation from 1903 until 1907, when he sold the property and came to Portland. Here

In 1881 Mr. Mallory was united in marriage to Miss Mary Elizabeth Yerkes, who was born in Chester county, Pennsylvania, but was reared in Ohio, coming first to Oregon when a young lady of seventeen years. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Mallory have been born six children : Edna Frances, the wife of J. B. Cronin, of lone; Augustus M., who is now deputy sheriff of Morrow county; Lester William, who is agent for the Oregon Electric Company at Wilsonville, Oregon ; Henry Y., who is bookkeeper for the Pacific States Telephone Company in Portland ; Cassius C, who is with the Spokane, Seattle & Portland Railroad Company ; and Margaret.

Franz Niebur

For practically fifty years Franz Niebur was a citizen of Oregon and during a large part of that time was a well known resident of Portland. He was an honest, industrious and persevering man, a splendid type of the stout-hearted sons of the German fatherland who have assisted so ably in building up the American republic and establishing it upon an enduring foundation. Attracted by free institutions, inspired by high ideals and by the advantages of a new country, no distances have been too great, no difficulties too severe, to daunt the brave spirits whose ancestors turned back the tide of Roman conquest and whose descendants are among the noblest names in America today.

Mr. Niebur was born in Germany, March 26, 1826. He received the rudiments of education in the public schools of his native land which are the models upon which the public school system of the United States has been cast. His father was a blacksmith and carpenter, and the son was early put to work at these trades and also at that of wagon-maker. The family came to America and traveled as far as Missouri, which was then the "far west," and marked the boundary beyond which was "the great American desert" and the vast mountain ranges which up to that time had been traversed only by Indians and hardy adventurers. The young mechanic first followed his trade in Missouri but soon moved back across the Mississippi river to Germantown, Illinois, where people were more numerous and the demand for wagons gave assurance of steady employment. At Germantown he met Miss Caroline Koch, also a native of Germany, whose father died there and whose mother started for America when the daughter was seventeen years of age. Death again visited the family, and during the trip across the ocean the mother was called away. The twice stricken daughter came on to Illinois, where a sister had already found a home, and there she met the young man who became her husband after she had attained the age of eighteen years. Two years later they moved to Missouri and lived in that state until 1853, when they joined a wagon train which was bound for the northwest. Mr. Niebur had a good outfit for those days - a horse, three yokes of oxen and a covered wagon, which were well provided with necessities for the journey. The trip required from March to October. At The Dalles, Mr. Niebur left the live stock and he and his wife completed the journey to Portland in a boat. Here he found employment principally at his trade during the winter, and built a house for Captain Couch and also for Captain Flanders. In the spring he bought the rights in three hundred and twenty acres of land in Multnomah county which had been located by a previous arrival, paying one hundred dollars for the land and a small cabin which stood on the property. In order to secure title to the property, continuous residence for four years was necessary, and Mrs. Niebur made her home in the little cabin while her husband worked at his trade in Portland, visiting his wife as opportunity presented. This was one of the incidents of pioneer life. After ten years, having secured a good herd of cattle and placed the farm on a good paying basis, Mr, and Mrs. Niebur moved to Portland where they permanently located. Their home was originally in a forest which has since disappeared and the spot on which the cabin stood is where the residence of Mr. Niebur now stands at 331 Madison street. The farm is still owned by the family. Mr. Niebur worked at his trade and built up a profitable business of which he was the head, retiring from active life a few years before he died to take a needed rest. He departed this life February 25, 1902, and his remains repose in Mount Calvary cemetery. One child, Carrie, was born to Mr. and Mrs. Niebur. She is the wife of R. H. Fay. They live at the old homestead and are the parents of six children : Maggie, deceased ; Frank, a resident of Portland ; Mrs. Lillian Burrell, of Portland, who is the mother of two children, Fay and Richard ; Edward, also of this city, who married Emma Stark, now deceased, by who he had two children, Cyril and Helen; Alice, now Mrs. H. J. McLean, of Salt Lake City; and Mrs. Alma Fay, of Portland.

Mr. and Mrs. Franz Niebur, as representative pioneers, always occupied an honorable place among the brave band that developed the resources of Western Oregon. Mr. Niebur was a member of the Roman Catholic church and a consistent follower of its tenets. He was a member of the Volunteer Fire Department of Portland in the early days and was ever found at the post of duty. Mrs. Niebur in the evening of her life is the center of loving attentions from a generation that has not known the dangers through which she passed, but which has profited by her kindly monition and most of all by the example of a life which was early tried in the school of affliction and the fruitage of which is now beheld in that most desirable of all earthly attributes, a beautiful and unselfish character.

Alexander David

Alexander David was one of the early settlers of the Columbia river valley, having crossed the plains in 1868. He was a native of Illinois, born in 1820, only two years after the admission of that state into the Union. He continued to reside in the Mississippi valley until 1868, when the reports which he heard concerning the opportunities of the northwest determined him to cross the plains and seek the advantages that he might here secure. He located on land twelve miles from Vancouver, homesteading one hundred and sixty acres which were covered with a native forest grove. He cleared away much of the timber, grubbed up the stumps and prepared the land for the plow. Thereafter year after year he continued the work of the farm until his death, which occurred in 1902. He was survived by five children, and three of the number are yet living, Frank and Cora being residents of Portland.

Albert David, the second of the survivors, was born in Wisconsin, November 12, i860. As previously stated, the father came to Washington in 1868, and the following year the family joined him, having made the trip by way of the isthmus of Panama. Albert David was at that time a lad of nine years and the voyage was a very wonderful one to him. He was reared upon the claim which his father had secured and the public schools afforded him his educational privileges. He afterward engaged in farming with his father, remaining as his active assistant until the latter's death, since which time he has carried on farming alone. The place comprises one hundred and sixty-one acres of the original homestead, of which about sixty acres have been cleared. He carries on general farming and his labors bring forth good harvests for the land is rich and his methdos are practical.

In March, 1886, Mr. David was united in marriage to Miss Mary Snider, of Clarke county, and they have five children: Stella, now Mrs. Herman Stutz, of Vancouver; Rosie, now the wife of Orvis Wright, of Vancouver; William, Nellie and Birch, all at home. Mr. David, while giving his attention largely to his farming interests, yet finds time and opportunity to support the measures and movements instituted for the benefit of the section in which he lives. The cause of education finds in him a warm friend and he is now serving as school director. He has a wide acquaintance in this county where almost his entire life has been passed, and that his circle of friends is almost coextensive with the circle of his acquaintance indicates that his record has at all times been upright and honorable.

Thomas Burke

The year 1852 witnessed the arrival of a larger number of settlers in the northwest than did any other year in pioneer times, and among the number were those who bore a very active and helpful part in shaping the history of Oregon and developing the splendid natural resources of this section of the country. Thomas Burke was one who in that year became a resident of Portland.

He was a native of Ireland, born in Dingle, County Kerry, October 25, 1818, and was a son of Tobias and Bridget (McEgan) Burke, who spent their entire lives on the Emerald isle, where they passed away many years ago. Thomas Burke acquired his education in his native country and when a young man came to America in the year 1845 ^^^ '^^as admitted to citizenship August 2, 1850. He did not remain long on the seacoast but made his way at once into the interior of the country, settling at St. Louis, Misouri, where he turned his attention to steamboating on the Mississippi river. He followed that pursuit until he started for the far west.

He was married in 185 1 in St. Louis to Miss Mary A. Devlin, who was born March 17, 1827, in County Derry, Ireland, and in the latter part of March, 1852, they started for the plains of the northwest. Mr. Burke had heard favorable reports concerning this country and its opportunities and he resolved to seek his fortune therefore on the Pacific coast. He reached Oregon after a trip of six months over the prairies of the Mississippi valley, the arid plains farther west and the high mountain ranges of the Rockies and the Cascades. The trip was a long and wearisome one, for the slow plodding oxen covered only a few miles each day. At length the entire distance was traversed and coming to the little city of Portland, Mr. Burke on the 31st of December, 1852, purchased two lots on the corner of Salmon and Seventh streets, where the family took up their abode in the spring of 1853. -^^ was employed by various concerns for several years after his arrival.

In the winter of 1855-6 the Columbia river being frozen over, Mr. Burke carried the mail on foot from Portland to The Dalles and return. This was a thrilling experience, for he encountered many dangers. He was chosen for this position on account of his upright character. With the money earned from this he bought two lots on the corner of Seventh and Main streets, giving him ownership of a half a block. These w^ere purchased, according to the deeds, in February, 1856. The ownership still rests with his heirs.

Mr, Burke was long connected with the police department of Portland. He was appointed in 1870, remaining in that position for seven years wearing star No. I. His official record was at all times creditable. He stood as a defender of law and order, which must ever predominate in a community if it is to be a desirable place of residence. He was ever most loyal to the duties that devolved upon him and his faithfulness won him advancement in the ranks of the department. During the period of incumbency as an officer he was never late but once and that was due to a faulty alarm clock.

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Seven children were born unto Mr. and Mrs. Burke, of whom two died in infancy. A son, John Burke, who was born February 7, 1852, in St. Louis, Missouri, died July 7, 1907. He was brought as a babe in arms across the plains to Portland by his parents and began life as a newsboy, selling the Oregonian and other papers. He afterward learned the plumbing trade and was in that business for many years, but at length gave up that line to engage in the street contracting business. He retired in 1897, spending the succeeding ten years in the enjoyment of well earned rest. He was one of the leading members of the volunteer fire department and was also active in politics but was never an aspirant for office. He gained considerable prosperity through his well directed business afifairs and was a man of affluence at one time in his career. The next child was Margaret E. Burke, who was born March 15, 1854, in Portland, and is a graduate of St. Mary's Academy. She is now the wife of Elisha F. Humason, of Spokane, Washington. They were married November 24, 1878, and are the parents of seven children, all of whom are living. Henry Burke, the next member of the family, born in Portland, November 17, 1857, is a lather by trad-e and resides with his sister at No. 334 Salmon street. Mary A. Burke, was born in Portland, November 2, 1861, and now resides at the old family home. [Agnes J., born August 30, 1865, died May 9, 1900. All of the children were born and reared at the corner of Seventh and Salmon steets, with the exception of John, the eldest child. All were given good public-school educations and afterward had the benefit of convent instruction.

In his political views Mr. Burke was always an earnest democrat, loyal to the party and its principles. His religious faith was with the Roman Catholic church. He was widely and favorably known iti Portland, having many warm friends here. He was never identified with any clubs or societies with the exception of the United Irishmen, a prominent organization. One of the rules of his honorable life was never to speak ill of anyone. .He had a host of friends that loved him for his open, frank, genial nature. He was above all quiet and unassuming and always was a most hospitable host. His death occurred May 10, 1879.

His wiie survived him until October i, 1886, and passed away at the age of sixty years. She will long be remembered for her wit and humor. She was a quick, shrewd observer and was known all over Portland in this connection. Moreover, she was a very charitable woman and always ready to assist in times of sickness and death. As the head of the family she practiced close economy. At her death one of the local papers said : "Mrs. Burke was one of the pioneer residents of Portland and the news of her demise deeply moved the heart of many an old resident who had learned to love and respect her for her amiable and noble traits of character." In 1852 she crossed the plains with her husband and infant son, reaching Oregon after a journey of six months over arid wastes and rugged mountains. Portland was but a little pioneer settlement at the time and Mr. and Mrs. Burke built a home on the present corner of Seventh and Salmon streets, then on the fringe of a thick forest. There Mrs. Burke resided up to the time of her death and she always cherished a tender regard for the locality. During all her years of residence she took a deep interest in everything pertaining to the welfare of the city. She was bright, quick-witted and intelligent, and her ready but kindly powers of repartee were widely known. She had a kind and generous heart and was ever ready to assist the poor and distressed without any show or ostentation. She was a devout and earnest Catholic and was especially active in collecting for Catholic charities. She had also a sincere love for the land of her birth and took a lively interest in everything aflfecting the condition of Ireland. She passed quietly away, the last sleep stealing over her senses as gradually as the somber shadows of night steal over the light of day, and when death closed her eyes with his icy touch she left behind the memories that always shed a halo around a good and noble character. The entire family have always been active in the affairs of the Roman Catholic church and have always been identified with the growth and development of Portland, in which every member of the household has taken a helpful and active interest.

Jacob T. Hunsaker

With those "first things" which mark the beginnings of history, which are in fact the vanguard of an advancing civilization, Jacob T. Hunsaker was closely connected, for he became a resident of this section of the country in 1846. Portland practically had no existence at that time but Oregon City had its little band of enterprising residents and a few venturesome spirits were located in the Columbia and Willamette river valleys, yet on the whole this section was a great unclaimed, unsettled and unimproved district. Mr. Hunsaker was of Swiss ancestry and was born in southern Illinois, July 20, 1818.

On the 7th of December, 1837, he was married to Miss Emily Margaret Collings of the old Collings family of Kentucky. Her mother was a representative of the Burdett family of Virginia and both her paternal and maternal grandfathers were soldiers of the Revolutionary war. Mrs. Hunsaker was born near Louisville, Kentucky, October 3, 1820, and ere the start was made for the northwest, she had become the mother of five children. A belief that superior advantages might be enjoyed in that section of the country led the family in 1846 to bid farewell - a tearful one it was - to friends and relatives in Illinois and start upon the long, wearisome march to Oregon, Mrs. Hunsaker driving a team hitched to a light wagon, in which were the children, while the bedding and cooking outfit were also packed therein. The parents being anxious to get through and establish their home, left their ox team and wagon in charge of their man and pushed on ahead of the train over the Barlow road. They were the first to come thus directly over past Oregon City to the Molalla prairie, where Mr. Hunsaker soon put in a crop. He also aided in building the schoolhouse in that district and thus planted the seeds of educational progress there. Another child was born to them while the parents were living in that district. Later Mr. Hunsaker went down the Columbia river to look up a site for a sawmill which he finally located at a point on Milton creek, near where the town of St. Helen's now stands. When the mill was completed he removed his family to that location. It was a needed industry and he found immediate market for the product of the mill. Ships coming from California bought his lumber and so eager were they that they would have torn down the mill to secure more had they been permitted. When they left not a loose stick or slab could be found anywhere. Mr. Hunsaker received a splendid price for the lumber and a few months later also disposed of his mill at a high figure. His purpose in selling out was to go to a district where educational opportunities could be secured for the children. A huge raft was built by lashing together piles of lumber and lumber was also piled on all sides for protection. On this the family embarked and with sail and oar worked their way to Oregon City, where schools had been established. The three older girls were placed in the Sisters School and the son became a pupil of Mary Johnson, who had been placed in charge of the school in the first Baptist church built west of the Rocky Mountains - a school from which has been developed the present McMinnville College. Soon Mr. Hunsaker built another sawmill, which he erected on the Washougal river near the present site of LaCamas. A terrible forest fire drove them from their Washougal mill and, in October, 1849, they returned to Oregon City, where they purchased a place near the Clackamas river, where the family home was maintained through the succeeding forty years. While there residing six more children were added to the family and there the two oldest, Horton and Josephine, died in 1853.

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While Mr. Hunsaker devoted much attention to his business interests and met with substantial success therein, he was also connected with many of the early events which have left their impress upon the pages of history. He was one of the jury impaneled to try the Indians who participated in the famous Whitman massacre and hung the jury for sometime, believing that there was not sufficient evidence to convict a certain Indian. His political support was given to the whig party until its dissolution and he acted as chairman of the meeting at which the republican party of this district was organized in Oregon City. However, he never took a prominent part in politics.

In 1874 the family were called upon to mourn the loss of wife and mother, who died very suddenly on the 14th of January. She had many noble, heroic, self-sacrificing quaHties and at the burial services Dr. Achinson said of her: " 'She hath done what she could.' Only for her help and hearty cooperation, her cheer and encouraging words, I should have been utterly discouraged in the attempt to raise means for the building of the Young Ladies' Seminary." All who knew her expressed the same opinion of her splendid qualities. After the death of his first wife, Mr. Hunsaker was never satisfied with the old home and thereafter removed to a farm which he purchased near Woodburn, there passing away on the 20th of August, 1889.

They reared a large family and several of their children have taken an active part in the public life and business development of this section of the country. The oldest of their living children is Marianne, who became the wife of A. C. Edmunds, a Universalist minister from California, whose grandfather and uncles were soldiers of the war for Independence. He died in 1878. Their only daughter, Emily Coryell, became the wife of I. C. Sanford, who was descended in both the paternal and maternal lines from those who fought with the American army in the Revolutionary war. At the present time, Mr. and Mrs. Sanford are living in Portland and have tv^^o children, Dorothy and Harold. Mrs. Edmunds married a second time, becoming the wife of J. F. D'Arcy, a native of Boston, Massachusetts, and a lawyer by profession. She had one son by this marriage, Francis, who is a graduate of the law department of the University of Oregon and is now living with his mother in Portland,

Araminta Hunsaker became the wife of Theodore Burminster, a German by birth and at that time a young law student. She met a sad and tragic death near Boise, Idaho. She had one son, Frank Theodore, who lives in Salt Lake City, and has a large family of children.

Jacob Hunsaker married Lizzie V., daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Chambers, of Chambers Prairie, who were pioneers of Oregon and Washington. They have four children : Lloyd, residing in Albuquerque, New Mexico ; Hallie, Cassie and Margaret, all living in Everett, where the family have made their home for a number of years.

Sarah Hunsaker, the first child born after the arrival of the family in Oregon, was married to J. Tompkins, the eldest son of D. D. Tompkins, a pioneer of 1847, whose ancestors were represented in the Revolutionary war. They have six children : Daniel D., Jacob, Forbes Barclay and Morton, all of whom are married; and Emily and Verna, who are living with their parents near Salem, Oregon.

Lycurgus Hunsaker, who was born in 1849, soon after the family settled on the home place near the Clackamas, married Lilly, a daughter of Mr. Learn, an Oregon pioneer.

Nancy Katherine became the wife of H. B. Nicholas, an attorney and a son of Peter Marks Nicholas, a member of the old Virginia family of that name, whose mother was a niece of President Thomas Jefferson. The eldest son of Mr. and Mrs. H. B. Nicholas is Byron Randolph Nicholas, who married Nancy Voorhies, of Kentucky, and they have one son, John Voorhies III. Their only daughter, Beulah, is the wife of Francis Phillips Hallinan. Two other sons, Wilson Cary and Robert Winn, are living with their parents in Portland.

Caroline Hunsaker married Frank E. Arnold, a native of Boston, and a representative of an old colonial family. For a number of years they have resided in Portland and have seven children, Ruth, Carolyn Kellogg, Emmons, Alice Frances, Sam and Josie. All are still at home w^ith the exception of Ruth, who is now the wife of Dr. Wardell, of Seattle.

Alice Hunsaker is the wife of Charles Oster, a farmer of eastern Oregon, and they have three children, Winnefred, Margaret and Charles Jacob, all living at home near Heppner.

Emily Jane Hunsaker is the wife of Ernest P. Waite, of Maine, whose forefathers for many years have been sea captains. Mr. and Mrs. Waite are now living in Eureka, California.

Charles A. Williams

Charles A. Williams is now living retired in Gladstone. A native of Vermont, he was born in Orange county on the 28th of August, 1844, and represents one of the old New England families founded in America during colonial days. His grandfather, Asahel Williams, served in the Continental line all during the Revolutionary war. He was captured at the battle of Long Island, New York, and was held as a prisoner of war for about eight months. He lived for some time, however, to enjoy the fruits of liberty which his efforts had aided in bringing to the colonies dying in 1840. The parents of Charles A. Williams were Asahel and Louise (Johnson) Williams, and in their home he spent his youthful days, pursuing his education in the public schools. A few days before the twentieth anniversary of his birth he enlisted for service in the Civil war, being enrolled at Springfield, Vermont, on the loth day of August,

1864, as a private of Company I, Ninth Vermont Volunteer Infantry. The company was commanded by Captain Eugene Viele and the regiment by Colonel Edward H. Ripley. He joined this command before the battle at Chapins Farm, in which he participated. He was also in the battle of Williamsburg Road, was present at the fall of Richmond and was in a number of minor engagements and skirmishes. He remained with the command until after the fall of the Confederacy, and was honorably discharged on the 13th day of June,

Following the close of hostilities Mr. Williams went to Massachusetts, where he remained for a short time, and then returned to his parents home in Vermont, living with them up to the time of his marriage, which was celebrated in Franklin, Merrimac county, New Hampshire, on the 21st of October, 1875, the lady of his choice being Miss Laura A. Haynes, a daughter of Clark and Mary A. Haynes, who were natives of the Old Granite state and were descended from Puritan ancestry. Her brother, Ervin W. Haynes, served during the Civil war with the First New Hampshire Infantry and with the Second United States Sharpshooters.

At the time of his marriage Mr. Williams was employed by the Howe Scale Company at Brandon, Vermont, where he remained until 1878, when he went to Kansas and secured a homestead claim which he occupied and cultivated for five years. In 1883, however, he returned to New Hampshire and was there employed in the woolen mills. In 1888 he went to the territory of Washington, settling at Sidney, now Port Orchard. There he engaged in the lumber business until the fall of 1890, when he became a resident of Oregon City, where he lived until 1893. During that period he was employed in the woolen mills. Seventeen years ago he came to Gladstone, where he has since made his home, and at the present time he is living retired.

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In 1907 Mr. Williams was called upon to mourn the loss of his wife, who died on the 12th of December. She was a consistent member of the Methodist church and was also an active and honored member of Lincoln-Garfield Corps, No. 19, W. R. C, and of the United Artisans. Her many good traits of heart and mind won her the esteem and love of all who know her, so that her death was deeply regretted by many friends as well as her immediate family. She left two sons, William A. and Clark H., who are still residing with their father.

Mr. Williams maintains pleasant relations with his old army comrades through his membership in Sumner Post, No. 12, G. A. R. He has filled all the offices in other posts and was commander of Meade Post, No. 2, at Oregon City. He was assistant adjutant general and assistant quartermaster general of the department of Oregon for 1909, serving for three terms in that position. He has also been aid-de-camp to the department commander of Oregon and his ancestry is indicated by the fact that he is a member of the Pilgrim Fathers' Society. His political allegiance has always been given to the republican party which stood as the defense of the Union during the dark days of the Civil war and has always been the party of reform and progress. His religious faith is that of the Methodist church and his life has been in consistent harmony therewith. In matters of citizenship he is as true and loyal to his country today as when he followed the old flag upon the battle fields of the south.

Richard L. Zeller

Richard L. Zeller, an architect and builder, well known in Portland as a member of the firm of Stokes & Zeller, was born in Montgomery county, Ohio, March 23, 1859. His parents were Adam and Susan Zeller, the former a native of Pennsylvania and the latter of Indiana. The father was a millwright and builder and his son Richard L. early became his assistant. The family remained residents of Montgomery county, Ohio, until 187 1, when they removed to St. Elmo, Fayette county, Illinois, where they resided until 1879.

Richard L. Zeller was a lad of twelve years at the time the family home was established in Illinois, and there in the public schools he continued his education which had been begun in the public schools of Ohio. When about eighteen years of age he began learning the trade of a builder and in the years which have since come and gone has established himself in a prominent position as an architect and contractor. He remained in Illinois until the fall of 1879, when he went to Texas where he carried on business for about a year. In 1880, however, he returned to Illinois, where he spent another year, and then again sought a home in the southwest, making his way to New Mexico, where he remained from 1 88 1 until the spring of 1883.

It was on the latter date that Mr. Zeller came to Portland, having made his home here continuously since April, 1883. He has been engaged in building operations and throughout the entire period has been a partner of William R. Stokes, of whom mention is made elsewhere in this volume. One of the first buildings which they erected was the old Williams avenue schoolhouse which has recently been torn down to make way for a business block. A quarter of a century or more ago they erected the Ladd residence in Laurelhurst, and they have always specialized in the building of residences and apartment houses, having taken the contracts for the erection of some of Portland's finest homes. They have also done work in various other parts of the state, were the builders of the Soldiers Home at Roseburg and have erected schoolhouses and other buildings in Baker City, Pendleton, Heppner, Oregon City and Astoria. Their contracts are numerous and their execution makes constant demand upon the time and energies of Mr. Zeller, whose success has been the legitimate outcome of his earnest and well directed efiforts.

In 1909 occurred the marriage of Richard L. Zeller and Mrs. Martha A. Webb, a daughter of Mrs. Barbara Hart. Mrs. Zeller is a native of the state of New York and is a member of the Baptist church. Mr. Zeller votes with the republican party which he has supported continuously since age conferred upon him the right of franchise. After living at various places in the middle west and in the southwest, he feels fully contented to make his home upon the Pacific coast, being appreciative of the opportunities of this great and growing western country whose natural resources have not yet been exhausted and whose advantages are seemingly limitless.

Hon. Peter Hobkirk

Hon. Peter Hobkirk was a resident of Portland for thirty-one years. The memories of youth took him back to Scotland, those of early manhood to England and Ireland. Thus he became largely familiar with different sections of Great Britain. He was born in Jedburgh, Roxburghshire, Scotland, on the i6th of March, 1841, a son of Peter and Katherine (Robertson) Hobkirk, his father having been one of the employes in a woolen mill. He remained a resident of the land of hills and heather, of mountain crag and plain until he had attained his majority. He then went to Edinburgh, where he remained for three months, next residing in Liverpool for more than a year, after which he located in Dublin. From that city he proceeded to London, where he worked for about four months and from there embarked for New York. He had learned the carpenter's trade in Scotland and followed it in all the different places he lived while in Great Britain.

It was in 1864 that Peter Hobkirk crossed the Atlantic to America, reaching New York on the 3d of August. Going at once to Massachusetts, he settled in Berkshire county, near Lenox, but in the following January left there for New York city and on the 20th of January embarked for California. He continued a resident of San Francisco until 1879, following the carpenter's trade throughout that period of fifteen years, after which he made his way northward to Oregon and was connected with building operations here until 1881. He next located in Tacoma, Washington, where he remained for eight months, after which he returned to Salem, where he continued until 1884. During that period he worked at the insane asylum and upon other important buildings of the city. In April, 1884, he went to Spokane, where he resided until the following November and then took up his abode in Portland, where he has since resided. During a part of the time he had worked at his trade in the employ of others and during the remainder of the period had followed contracting. In 1885 he formed a partnership with John McKenzie, which continued for about ten years. He was the builder of the large Exposition building on Washington street that was destroyed by fire in July, 1910. He was also the builder of the Worcester, the predecessor of the building of that name, that is today one of the substantial blocks of Portland. This he erected for Mr. Corbett. He also erected the Hill House for Mr. Ladd on Twelfth and Morrison streets and also the Hill House for H. H. Northrop at Twelfth and Jefferson streets. He had the contract for the wood work of the Congregational church, also of the Sherlock block, and erected a number of schoolhouses. Up to the time of his death, which occurred January 7, 191 1, he was still actively engaged in contracting and building and he also derived a substantial income from several valuable properties which he owned in South Portland. He was president of the Alaska Coal Oil Company, operating wells at Katala, Alaska, and was interested in various mining properties.

On the 1st of July, 1869, Mr. Hobkirk was married to Miss Maria Warner, a native of Montreal, Canada, and a daughter of Robert and Hannah (Dawson)

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Warner, who were of English birth. Mr. and Mrs. Hobkirk became the parents of five children, of whom Eva Swanston died at the age of eleven months. The others are: Hannah M., the wife of D. L. Povey; Lillian E. ; Flora S., the wife of Nicholas F. Sullivan, of Walla Walla, Washington ; and Frederick P., a metal worker living in Portland.

Mr. Hobkirk was a member of the Episcopal church and his wife of the Presbyterian church. After becoming a naturalized American citizen he gave his political support to the republican party and in 1898 became a member of the state legislature, serving for a term of two years. During an extra session of the legislature, called for the purpose of electing the United States senator in 1898, Joseph Simon, was chosen for the position. He was a York and Scottish Rite Mason, having attained the Knights Templar and thirty-second degrees. He also crossed the sands of the desert with the Nobles of the Mystic Shrine and he met in fraternal intercourse with the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks. His chief recreation was hunting and fishing. His success was undoubtedly attributable in large measure to the fact that he always continued in the line of business in which he embarked as a young tradesman. His early training was thorough and practical and thus he developed ability which carried him into important relations with the business, making him one of the successful representatives of his line in Portland. In matters of citizenship he was deeply interested and though his office holding was confined to a term in the legislature and one term of two years in the city council by reason of the extent and importance of his business affairs, he was always ready to assist any measure or movement which he deemed of real benefit to the community.

It is an old saying that "The boy is father to the man." It is nevertheless true that youth usually determines the character of age. Asa A. McCuUy early displayed qualities which marked his entire life. His laudable ambition and desire for improvement were shown in the earnest efforts which he put forth to secure an education when the opportunities of attending school were largely denied him. Throughout his entire life he never waited, Micawber-like, for something to turn up, but made his opportunity and utilized it to the fullest advantage. At the same time he always recognized the rights of others and his obligations to his fellowmen.

In far off New Brunswick Asa A. McCully was born, being a native of the city of St. Johns. His life history had its beginning on the 31st of January, 1818, and was ended August 12, 1886. His parents, Mr. and Mrs. John McCully, were of Scotch-Irish lineage and during the early childhood of their son Asa removed to Ohio, settling in Henry county. Soon afterward, however, they traveled still farther westward, taking up their abode at Mount Pleasant, Iowa, where they lived for many years. The father engaged in farming in that locality up to the time of his death, and was numbered among the respected and valued citizens of the community.

Asa A. McCully was a pupil in the various schools which he was able to attend as his father removed from place to place. His educational privileges, however, were somewhat limited, yet he became a thoroughly well informed man by private reading, study and investigation. By experience, too, he learned many valuable lessons of life. He became a practical man of affairs. In connection with his brother David, he opened a store at Mount Pleasant which they conducted until 1852, when they came to Oregon. In 1849, however, Asa A. McCully had made the trip to California, attracted by the gold discoveries, and for about a year remained in the mines. He did not meet with the success that he had anticipated, however, and accordingly returned to Mount Pleasant, but having decided to locate permanently in the west, he disposed of his business interests in Iowa and came by the ox team route over the plains to the Pacific northwest. He was accompanied by his brother David and his family, also by Dr. John Samuel and William H. McCully, all of whom were married with the exception of William. It required about five months to reach Oregon, for the slow plodding oxen, drawing their heavily ladened wagons, covered only a few miles each day. In August, 1852, they located in Linn county, each of the brothers taking up claims of six hundred and forty acres. There they founded the town now called Harrisburg, although it was originally named Thurston in honor of Senator Thurston. The land was all prairie and upon his place Asa A. McCully built a log cabin. In 1853 ^^ returned to Iowa to get a drove of cattle. On the return trip he was elected captain of the wagon train, leaving St. Joseph, Missouri, with a large party. The trip was one of hardships, but eventually they reached Harrisburg and Mr. McCully pastured his cattle upon his claim. He served as the first postmaster of the town and in connection with his brother David conducted the first mercantile establishment there. In 1863, however, he removed to Salem, Oregon, with his family, in order to give his children better educational privileges. He conducted a store in Salem and was also connected with the Peoples Transportation Company, being one of its largest stockholders and its president for a number of years. He extended his business activities to other fields and became president of the Capital National Bank. His judgment was sound, his enterprise unfaltering, and his successfully executed plans were wisely carried out, bringing substantial success. He continued in business in Salem until his death, which was occasioned by the kick of a horse while he was on his farm in Yamhill county, on the 12th of August, 1886. His remains were taken back to Salem for interment.

On the 5th of September, 1848, at Mount Pleasant, Iowa, Mr. McCully had been married to Miss Hannah K. Waters, a daughter of William Waters. Mrs. McCully was born in Ashtabula, Ohio, April 25, 1828, and passed away on the 1st of "August, 1905, her grave being made by her husband's side in Salem, Oregon. She was the mother of four children. Alice M., the eldest, became the wife of William B. Crane, who was born in Newark, New Jersey, April 26, 1835. He came west during the war and located in Portland, but afterward went to Idaho, where he followed mining. Subsequently he became a resident of San Francisco, where he was agent for the New York Life Insurance Company, remaining there until his death, which occurred in 1878, his remains being brought back to Salem, Oregon, for interment. On the 8th of December, 1871, in Portland, he had wedded Alice M. McCully and they became the parents of three children, of whom Dr. Clarence Crane, of Boston, is the eldest. He married Miss Stella Howard and they have two children, Calista and William. Dr. Crane is a graduate of the Boston University of Medicine and is surgeon in a hospital of that city. Ethel L. Crane became the wife of P. P. Dabney, of Portland, and they have a daughter, Alice M. William B. Crane, of Portland, married LilHan Lewis and they have two children, Walton B. and Ethel L. Linnie M. McCully, who was born in Oregon, was married at Salem, November 8, 1877, to Allen B. Crossman, of Portland, who was born in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, June 7, 1846. Coming west in 1863, he located at Salem, where he engaged in merchandising for a number of years, but is now engaged in the timber land business in Portland. He served as postmaster in Salem and filled the same position in Portland for five years. Unto him and his wife have been born three children. Alice L. is the wife of William W. Harder and they have an adopted daughter Helen. Lillian, of New York city, is an opera singer, and Allen B. died at the age of nineteen years. John D. McCully is the owner of a large, fine apple ranch at Hood River, Oregon. He married Lillian Patten, whose father was a pioneer settler of this state, and they have two children, Eula F. and Russell A. A. L. McCully, the youngest of the family, is in the

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Mr. McCully was a citizen of considerable prominence in Salem, not only by reason of the extent and importance of his business interests but also by reason of his activity in republican circles and his stalwart support of what he believed to be for the best interests of the community. He was serving as a member of the city council of Salem at the time of his death, and about 1863 he was sent as a representative from Linn county to the state legislature. He was a warm personal admirer of Abraham Lincoln and was ever a stalwart advocate of republican principles. His fraternal relations were with the Masons and he was an exemplary member of the craft, which is based upon a belief in the brotherhood of man and the fatherhood of God. Oregon has reason to recognize the worth of his work, for at all times his labors were an element in public progress as well as a source of individual success.

John Matthiesen

John Matthiesen, proprietor of the Hotel Matthiesen at the corner of Madison and Front streets in Portland, has been conducting this hotel since 1905, but long prior to that date became a factor in the hotel life of the city, having previously been proprietor of the Hotel Zur Rheinpfaltz at the southwest corner of Front and Madison streets. As the name indicates, he is of German lineage. He was born in the northern part of Germany February 3d, 1857, ^^^ was there reared to the age of sixteen years when he came to America, settling first in Clinton, Iowa, where he took up farming. He made the journey to the new world with his brother Thomas, who remained a resident of Iowa, but in 1878 John Matthiesen continued his westward journey to San Francisco. There having become a cook, he followed this work continuously until he arrived in Oregon, where he took up a homestead on the Tualitin river, eighteen miles from Portland.

He devoted the succeeding two years to farming when his funds became exhausted, and writing to his brother Thomas, the latter came from Iowa and purchased the claim. John Matthiesen then removed to Portland and worked in different hotels until 1887, when he established the old Hotel Rheinpfaltz at the corner of Front and Main streets. This was a little two story brick structure, adequate however, to the demands of a city which in size and population bore little resemblance to the Portland of today. In 1890 he removed to the northwest corner of Front and Madison streets and in 1895 established the Hotel Matthiesen. He also owns the Harrison Hotel at the corner of Front and Harrison, which he leases. Success has attended his efforts during his residence in Portland, and has resulted from his close application, his unfaltering energy and his determination. As the years have passed he has steadily progressed toward the goal of prosperity. In 1891 he returned to the fatherland for a visit, accompanied by his family, and spent five months in Europe, not only visiting his birthplace and the scenes of his youth, but also many points of interest in the old world.

Mr. Matthiesen was married in Portland in 1883 to Miss Albina Hoehler, and unto them were born two children, Edward and William. The wife and mother died in 1895, and in 1898 Mr. Matthiesen married Miss Meta Winters. They have one son, Walter. Mr. and Mrs. Matthiesen and his son Edward have recently returned from a motor trip in Europe. Mr. Matthiesen is an enthusiast on the subject of motoring, and is the owner of three high grade cars. He and his wife and son William are all members of the Portland Automobile Club and Mr. Matthiesen also belongs to the Arion Singing Society, to the German Aid Society and the Knights of Pythias fraternity - associations which indicate much of the nature of his interests. He is never neglectful^ of the duties of citizenship and cooperates heartily in the movements of the Chamber of Commerce for the benefit and upbuilding of Portland. His political allegiance is given to the republican party. He has been honored with offices in several of the societies to which he belongs and is a citizen of whom Portland is proud because of what he has accomplished.

His life has been characterized by steady advancement. His youth was passed amid most unfavorable circumstances. The financial conditions at home were those of poverty and at the age of nine years he faced the necessity of providing for his own support. His educational opportunities were limited to one or two months' attendance at the district schools during the winter seasons, but after he was nine or ten years of age this privilege was denied him, owing to the necessities of the case. He worked upon farms in the neighborhood of his home and the last year of his service in Germany brought him only six dollars and a suit of clothes. It is no wonder then that he desired the opportunities of the new world and was buoyed up with the hope that he might find better conditions in this country. While success is not to be had for the asking in America, he early learned that "labor is king" in this country, and closely applying himself to whatever task came to his hand he has gradually climbed the ladder of success until he now stands among Portland's men of affluence.

James Thomas Barron

James Thomas Barron, president and general manager of the Thlinket Packing Company, has been actively associated with Portland's commercial interests continuously since 1887. He was born at Cleveland, Ohio, July 8, 1858. His father, James Barron, born in 1828, was a native of Clonmel, County Tipperary, Ireland, and came to America when six years of age. After entering business life he owned and operated for a time boats on the Erie canal and also engaged in the ship chandler business at Cleveland, Ohio. In the early '60s he came to the Pacific coast, locating in San Francisco, where he was identified with the steamship and warehouse business for many years as owner of steamships and an extensive system of warehouses, and was prominent in transportation interests. He was married in Detroit, Michigan, in 1852, to Agnes Myler, a daughter of Andrew Myler. She was a native of County Wexford, Ireland, where she was born in 1834, coming to America when but three years of age. Mr. and Mrs. Barron became the parents of eight children, two sons and six daughters, seven of whom survive. The father died in San Francisco, November 28, 1890, while the mother survived him twenty years, her death occurring February, 1910.

James Thomas Barron was educated in the public schools of San Francisco, and St. Mary's and Santa Clara Colleges. After leaving school he began as an accountant with a San Francisco mercantile establishment, where he remained for a short time, when he went to Santa Barbara to engage on his own account in the apiary business and later became largely interested in real estate.

In 1887, on coming to Portland, he accepted a position as accountant with Park & Lacy, dealers in machinery, and continued in that connection for two years. He was next appointed chief clerk of the thirteenth light house district, serving in that capacity until his resignation in 1893 to accept the dual office of cashier and secretary of the newly organized Hibernia Savings Bank, and he was largely instrumental in bringing it safely through the financial panic of that time. The following seven years were devoted to the interests of this institution, which was developed during the period into one of Portland's soundest financial organizations.

In 1899 Mr. Barron began in the salmon packing business, organizing the Thlinket Packing Company, of which he became president and general manager and of which he is the chief owner. The company operates in Alaska and has become the largest independent operator in Alaskan waters, the annual pack aggregating about one hundred and twenty thousand cases, representing a total value of over one-half million of dollars. Mr. Barron spends a large part of each season in Alaska, giving the business his personal supervision, and the company's splendid success is due largely to his executive ability and energetic management. Portland receives the direct benefit of over two hundred thousand dollars worth of business annually, largely for labor, supplies, etc.

Mr. Barron is still largely interested as a stockholder in the Hibernia Savings Bank. Politically, he is a democrat where national issues are involved but locally gives his support to the individual he deems best equipped to conserve the city's interests. He is a member of Dominican Catholic church, is a member of the Knights of Columbus, the United Artisans, the Arlington Club and the Commercial Club, taking an especially active interest in the projects of the latter organization for the development of Portland's commercial interests.

In July, 1890, Mr. Barron was united in marriage to Elizabeth Nixon, and they have two children, Anna Maria and Robert J. The family residence is at 634 Wasco street. Mrs. Barron is the daughter of Robert and Anna (Hogan) Nixon, both natives of Ireland, who came to America in childhood and were married in Massachusetts. Robert Nixon was killed while serving with a New Hampshire Volunteer Regiment in the Civil war. Mrs. Nixon still survives and resides with Mr. Barron in Portland.

Genial, generous, prosperous Mr. Barron has through sheer ability achieved a most gratifying success and has earned a most enviable place in both the business and social circles of the metropolis of the northwest.

Otto Kleemann

Otto Kleemann, an architect and builder, whose training came to him through the instruction of men prominent in the profession in Germany, and who, in his business career has given ample proof of his own skill and ability, has been a resident of Portland since September, 1880, at which time he left California to become a resident of Oregon. He was born in Ostrowo, Germany, March 13, 1855, and pursued his education in common schools there, while later he attended a technical school at Holzminden, and also a college in his native town. He received his diploma in recognition of the highest standing in scholarship made by any student in the college in twenty-five years. He began his education when not quite four and one half years of age, and had completed his school life when sixteen years of age. He then came to America, crossing the Atlantic in September, 1871, and making his way to San Francisco by way of the isthmus of Panama. He was unacquainted with the language and customs of the American people and at first it was difficult to get steady work, but later was employed by several architects and spent nine years in California.

On the expiration of that period Mr. Kleemann came to Portland, arriving here in September, 1880, at which time he became a draftsman in the employ of the firm of Clark & Upton, with whom he remained for several months. He was afterward employed by Justus Krumbein, an architect, with whom he continued for several months, when in his professional capacity he became connected with the Oregon Railway and Navigation Company, continuing therewith for thirteen months. During that time he was associated with the work of building their shops at Albina, and later he embarked in business on his own account. This was the year 1882, and through the intervening period to the present time his has been a very busy and useful life, for he rapidly worked his way upward in his profession. He has done much railroad work, even after leaving the employ of the Oregon Railway and Navigation Company, and al- though not a Catholic in reHgious faith, he has been awarded the contract for erecting nearly all of the Catholic churches that have been built in Portland since his arrival. He has also put up many fine residences, which are a monument to his skill, ability and progressive spirit. He erected the monastery at Mt. Angel, has also built many convents, and has done much important work for the different Catholic organizations, his promptness in executing contracts and the reliability of his workmanship bringing to him the extensive patronage which is accorded him.

In 1877 Mr. Kleemann was married in San Francisco to Miss Anna Gehlich, and they now have two living children, Hugh, a mechanical draftsman in the electrical engineering department of the Southern Pacific Railroad Company, and Qara, the wife of Peter L. Cover, by whom she has one child, Carl. The son is also married. Mr. and Mrs. Kleemann lost another son, William, who was drowned at Newport while bathing in the Pacific Ocean in 1904, when twenty-three years of age.

Mr. Kleemann is the grand adjutant of the Indian War Veterans of the North Pacific Coast, and has occupied the position continuously since 1895. He is also regent of Multnomah Council No. 1481 Royal Arcanum ; is president of the Consolidation of German Speaking Societies of Oregon; is a life member of the German Aid Society; and a member of the Masonic fraternity. He is interested in different organizations which have for their object the benefit of mankind, and thus has become identified with societies which recognize the truth of universal brotherhood. His life record has been a credit to the land of his birth and the land of his adoption. He feels that he made no mistake in coming to America in early manhood, for he here found the business opportunities which he sought, and which in time have brought him to a prominent position in professional circles. His ability enables him to speak with authority upon many subjects connected with the profession of architecture.

Carl Gritzmacher

Carl Gritzmacher has been a resident of Portland for over forty years and although formerly closely identified with business affairs and public interests, is now living retired. He was born in Prussia, Germany, near Berlin, on the 15th of January, 1848, and is a son of August and Henrietta Gritzmacher. The mother died in Germany and the father spent his last years in Illinois where he had carried on business as a contractor.

Carl Gritzmacher began his education in the schools of Germany, but when eleven years of age came to the United States with his father, brothers and sisters. They landed at New York and at once resumed their westward journey with Chicago as their destination and the father there took up the business of contracting and building. He was influenced in his choice of a location by the fact that his brother Carl was residing there. Later the family removed to a farm in the southern part of Illinois where the death of August Gritzmacher occurred about a year later.

Carl Gritzmacher returned to Chicago after his father's death. During his residence there he had attended school and later had learned the carpenter's trade under his father's instruction. He remained a resident of Chicago until 1869 and then came to the west, remaining on Puget Sound for one summer, while the year 1870 witnessed his arrival in Portland. General Solomon, who was appointed Governor of Washington territory by President Grant, was a friend of Mr. Gritzmacher and induced him and a number of other young men to come to the west. All located in Washington with the exception of Mr. Gritzmacher and Peter Hagner. After coming to Portland the former followed carpentering and finally became a contractor, remaining in the employ of others, however, for two years. He has been connected with the erection of many prominent buildings here. He worked on the Central schoolhouse, the first large schoolhouse of the city, he and Mr. Hatfield taking a subcontract from the regular contractor.

In 1874 he accepted a position on the police force and was a member of the force at intervals for about twenty-seven years. He held every office in connection with the department, including that of captain of detectives, and was advanced from the position of captain of police to chief of police by Mayor Lane in 1905. He assumed office about the time the Lewis & Clark Exposition was opened and continued to act in that capacity until July, 1909, his services being entirely satisfactory. At the time of the exposition when large crowds were in the city he managed the public interests in a most capable way, directing the labors of his subordinates so that accidents were avoided, lawlessness and crime largely diminished, while courteous attention was always given to the requests of visitors for information. Mr. Gritzmacher has been a sturdy republican since attaining his majority but has served more frequently under the democratic administration than the republican, a fact which indicates the confidence reposed in him and his fidelity to the public trust.

On the 4th of January, 1874, in this city, Mr. Gritzmacher was married to Miss Mary Pape, a daughter of Bernard and Dorothy Pape, who came to Portland from Illinois in 1870. Mr. and Mrs. Gritzmacher are now the parents of two sons, August B., who is engaged in the lumber business in Portland, and Charles H., who is in the railroad service.

Mr. Gritzmacher is a member of the German Aid Society and was one of the charter members of the Turners. He was also connected with several other German organizations but has discontinued his connection with most of these. He purchased his present home, at the corner of Taylor and Tenth streets, in 1877 and has occupied it since 1878, building a fine house which is celebrated for its hospitality cordially extended to the many friends of the family.

George Henry Young

George Henry Young is the owner of valuable farming property near Vancouver, and his life is indicative of the opportunities that are afiforded in America to the sons of Germany and of other European lands ; young men whose enterprise and courage enables them to meet conditions in a country with whose language and customs they are unfamiliar. He was born in the province of Hesse, Germany, December 7, 1833, and has therefore reached the age of seventy-seven years. His youthful days were spent upon a farm and in June, 1864, he came to the United States. He had previously heard of the west and its almost limitless opportunities, and he made his way direct to Vancouver, where he arrived on the 12th of July, proceeding by boat from Panama. Here he was met by his brother Antone, who had sent for him. This brother was one of the pioneers of the district and continued his residence here until his death in 1905. He was the owner of a brewery and had admitted George H. Young to a partnership. They operated the brewery together for some time, built additions thereto and conducted a successful business until 1871, when George H. Young sold out to his brother.

Returning to Germany he was there married to Miss Katherine Young in December, 1871, and with his bride returned to Clarke county where he took up farming on the Lakamas river, residing there until 1882. In that year he purchased one hundred and ninety-one acres on the Burnt Bridge road known as the Lewis F. Durgin donation claim. He still owns the other ranch of two hundred and sixty acres on the Lakamas which he cleared and improved and has also put all the improvements upon the Durgin ranch, clearing fifty acres of this. He now has a well developed property, ten acres being in prunes, while he is also engaged quite largely in raising hay and grain, and is likewise successfully conducting a dairy business. Since 1890 his son and daughter have been in charge of the Lakamas ranch. His farming interests are most capably managed and he is now one of the prosperous agriculturists of the country, his holdings being extensive, and his well developed and carefully cultivated properties are returning to him a substantial income. Since coming here he has helped to clear seventy acres of land from the forest and stumps, converting it into cultivable fields, and thus has contributed largely to the progress made along agricultural lines.

Unto Mr. and Mrs. Young were born eleven children, of whom seven are yet living: Louis C, operating the Lakamas ranch; Lizzie, a teacher of Qarke county ; Betta, with her brother Louis on her father's ranch ; Henry, who married Altha Brown and is employed by the Deschutes Railroad at Clarke Station ; Katherine, Gustave and May, all yet at home. The wife and mother died in May, 1908, her death being deeply regretted by many friends as well as her immediate family.

Mr. Young has served as school director of his district and has ever borne a helpful part in the work of general progress and improvement. He has aided in laying out the roads and in doing all of the work that is so necessary in the settlement of a new country where all of those things recognized as public utilities must be put in by the early settlers. While he has reached the age of seventy-seven years he is still an active man, giving personal supervision to his farming interests, and his has been a well spent life, his activity and enterprise being the source of his present success.

Samuel D. Francis

The great state of Oregon is a monument to the pioneer settlers and those who in later years have been active factors in its development. No period of early times witnessed the arrival of so many emigrants to the northwest as did the year 1852. It was then that S. D. Francis crossed the plains. He was bom in Massachusetts in 1814, but left the. old Bay state when about fourteen years of age and went with his parents to Vermont. He attended school in both states and when still in his minority engaged in the dry-goods business, owning a share in a store in the Green Mountain state.

While still residing there Mr. Francis was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth Stevens, who was born in Barnard, Vermont, in 1819. They began their domestic life in that state and remained there until 1846, when they removed to Illinois, settling about a mile from Geneva, on the Fox river. Mr. Francis purchased a farm there, hoping that the outdoor life would prove beneficial to his health, the impaired condition of which was the cause of his removal from New England. Not long afterward, in 1852, Mr. Francis came over the plains to Oregon and settled near Oregon City, where he established a nursery. He was also connected with Abernethy's wholesale dry-goods store at Oregon City in the capacity of bookkeeper and later he was appointed to the position of postmaster there. He also opened a business of his own in Oregon City, but as Portland grew and eclipsed the former town he sought the opportunities here offered and opened a grocery store on Third street, at the corner of Taylor. After conducting the business for a time his health again failed and he removed to Mount Tabor about fifty years ago, purchasing the Dr. Nelson place. After taking up his abode there he retired from active business life. He remained a resident of that locality up to the time of his death, which occurred in 1892, his remains being interred in Lone Fir cemetery. His wife survived him for about eleven years, passing away in 1903.

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In the family of Mr. and Mrs. Francis were eight children: Albion L., now deceased ; Marion, who became the wife of Rodney Tompkins ; Henrietta, who married James A. Smith, but both are now deceased; Clarence A., who has passed away; Ida, the wife of William Woodruff, of Mount Tabor; Estaven, of southern Oregon ; Alcion, of Portland ; and Dora, the widow of Judge Arthur Frazer. Mr. and Mrs, Francis were long earnest and devoted members of the Methodist church, reared their family in that faith and their children have become identified with the same denomination. Mr. Francis took a very active part in church work and was, indeed, a consistent Christian man.

We are indet)ted to Mrs. Tompkins, the eldest daughter, for the record of her esteemed parents, who were long numbered among the worthy pioneer people of this locality. Mrs. Tompkins largely spent her girlhood in Oregon and in Portland became the wife of Rodney Tompkins, who was born in Lima, Ohio, on the 27th of June, 1845. His parents were Daniel D. and EHzabeth (Dutton) Tompkins, early settlers of Lima, who came to Oregon over the plains with ox teams in 1847. They settled at Oregon City and Mr. Tompkins established a nursery near there. Both he and his wife died in that locality. Rodney Tompkins attended school at Oregon City and afterward worked on his father's fruit farm. About 1870 he took up his abode in Portland, where he engaged in the newspaper business for a number of years, but at the present time he is employed by the city. It was on the i6th of November, 1876, that he wedded Marion Francis and unto them have been born two children, Lloyd F. and Elizabeth. The former married Bessie Howlenstein and has three children, Marion, Ewing and Rodney. Both Mr. and Mrs. Tompkins are representatives of old pioneer families and are well known in this part of the state, where practically their entire lives have been passed.

Samuel M. Mears

Varied and important are the business enterprises which claim the attention and profit by the cooperation of Samuel M. Mears, and his life history is such as serves as an inspiration to those whose progress in the business life must depend upon their own efforts, for it has been through the simple weight of his character and ability that Mr. Mears has reached his present prominent position in commercial and financial circles. He is now the president of the Portland Cordage Company, and is identified with many other business concerns which are factors in the business development and consequent growth and prosperity of the city.

A native of Wisconsin, Mr. Mears was born in Madison, June i, 1856, and was there reared and educated supplementing his early school training by study in the University of Wisconsin, which he left at the age of seventeen years to become a factor in the business world and work his way upward by his own exertions and close application.

Mr. Mears was still but a boy in years when he went to San Francisco, where he entered the office of the West Coast Furniture Company, spending four years in their employ. On the expiration of that period he came to Portland where he has lived continuously since 1878. For about a year he was associated with the Frank Brothers Implement Company and then entered the Ladd and Tilton Bank as exchange clerk. His ability soon won him recognition and he was promoted to the position of bookkeeper. Constantly seeking broader opportunities, he left the bank and entered the service of the United Carriage Company, of which he is now the president. After two years he became connected with the Portland Flouring Mill Company as manager of their mill at Dayton, Washington, and subsequently assumed charge of the Tacoma mill. Extending his efforts to other fields from time to time, in 1892 he be- came connected with the Portland Cordage Company, which was organized in 1887 by W. B. Ayer, W. L. Ladd, Henry Faihng and H. W. Corbett. This company is engaged in the manufacture of rope, twine, cordage, etc., and employs one hundred and fifty men in the Portland factory. They have also established a large branch in Seattle, Washington, where employment is afforded about seventy workmen. In 1896 Mr. Mears was chosen president of this company, and has since bent his energies to administrative direction and executive control. His carefully formulated plans are promptly executed and result in successful management. The interests already mentioned, however, do not comprise the extent of his business activities, for he is now president of the Linnton Realty Company of Portland, president of the Columbia Manufacturing Works, president of the United Carriage Company, and a director of the Equitable Savings and Trust Company.

Mr. Mears was married in Portland in 1883 to Miss Laura Violet Savier, a daughter of Thomas Savier, one of Portland's pioneers. Mr. and Mrs. Mears are the parents of five children: Henry, Arthur, Maxwell, Margaret and Virginia. The family is prominent in social circles of the city, and Mr. Mears is to some extent a leader in political activity and in 1906 was elected to the state legislature. His time and energies, however, are largely occupied with his business affairs.

Not by leaps and bounds has he reached his present position, but by that steady progression which indicates the wise use of every moment and the intelligent direction of effort. Moreover, in his later years, since he has come to positfons of active management, he has displayed marked ability in coordinating forces and bringing seemingly diverse arrangements into a harmonious whole. His attitude is never that of an overbearing task master - he believes in the equitable adjustment of interest between employer and employee, and in the past years has conducted his business affairs in a manner that has been just to those who represent him, and at the same time has brought him the substantial and merited rewards of his labor and his business ability.

In the middle of the nineteenth century there came into Oregon from the east many people who as builders of the state have left their impress indelibly upon its history. Not all who came sought personal benefit from the utilization of the natural resources here afforded. They did not seek to make their own the rich mineral deposits, the fine forests and the productive lands, capable of high cultivation in both cereals and fruit; there were those who were actuated by the high purpose of bringing the Christian religion to the native sons - the race of red men who had long dominated the region - also to the early pioneers among the white race who were here building the commonwealth which is today the great state of Oregon. To this latter class belonged Dr. George H. Atkinson and while others cultivated the fields, he planted the seed in the hearts of men that bore fruit in good deeds, kindly actions and generous purposes.

A native of Massachusetts, he was born in Newburyport, on the lOth of May, 1819. After the period of early youth was passed he divided his time between the work of the farm and school teaching, being thus engaged until 1839. A young man of twenty, he then entered Dartmouth College and while pursuing his college course spent a portion of each year in teaching in order to defray his expenses. His literary course was made the foundation of special training for the ministry. He was for three years a student in the Andover Theological Seminary of Massachusetts, being graduated therefrom in 1846. Earnest, zealous and conscientious, he was ready to accept any call which would give him enlarged opportunities in the field of Christian service. Following his graduation he was appointed to do missionary work in the Zulu country of South Africa by the American Board of Commissioners for Foreign Missions. Upon the urgent sohcitation of the American Home Missionary Society his destination was changed to Oregon and after waiting for one year, which was spent in the Andover Seminary in making special preparation for Bible, school and tract work in Oregon - there being no opportunity to engage passage sooner - he left Boston on the ship Samoset, October 24, 1847. In February, 1848, he reached the Sandwich islands and after remaining at Honolulu for three months to secure a vessel bound for Oregon, he embarked upon the British vessel Cowlitz, a ship belonging to the Hudson Bay Company, and crossed the Columbia bar on the I2th of June, 1848.

At that time it was believed that Oregon City would be the metropolis of this portion of the country and taking up his abode there, Dr. Atkinson remained foi fifteen years as pastor of the Congregational church at that place. During that period he was instrumental in securing the erection of a house of worship and also the Clackamas Female Seminary, which he provided with its corps of teachers. He also brought about the plans of the academy and college at Forest Grove and arranged that the work should be accomplished through the association of the Congregational church, which had been formed with reference to that work. This institution was incorporated by the first Oregon legislature in 1849, and in 1852 Dr. Atkinson returned to New York and secured its adoption by the American College & Educational Society, thus obtaining the first funds to defray the expenses of teaching. At that time he purchased public-school books to the value of two thousand dollars and brought them to the territory and procured the establishment of a public-school system in 1849 by the state legislature, Governor Lane strongly recommending the measure in his first message. Dr. Atkinson was made the first school superintendent of Clackamas county and held the same position in Multnomah county for two terms following his removal to Portland in 1863. His efforts were extremely potent in building up the public-school system of this city. His was the pioneer movement in educational work in this section of the state and his labors were along practical and resultant lines.

On his removal to Portland Dr. Atkinson accepted the pastorate of the First Congregational church of Portland and remained in charge for nine years. In 1872 he was employed as home missionary, being made superintendent of Oregon and Washington by the Home Missionary Society in 1880, in charge of the home missionary work of the Congregational churches for the state of Oregon and the territory of Washington. He never ceased from his labors, never grew weary of well-doing, but sought continually broadening opportunities whereby his labors might benefit his fellowmen along the lines of intellectual and moral progress.

Dr. Atkinson was married in 1846 to Miss Nancy Bates, the wedding being celebrated in Springfield, Vermont. Unto them were born six children: Sophia B., now deceased ; Dr. George H. Atkinson, who was a physician and surgeon of Brooklyn, New York, until his death, on the 27th of December, 1884; Anna Sophia B., the wife of Frank M. Warren, of Portland; Edward M., a practicing lawyer of New York city; and Sarah Frances and Charles William, both of whom are now deceased.

Dr. Atkinson continued a resident of Portland from 1863 until his death, which occurred on the 25th of February, 1889, at his home at No. 195 Salmon street. He had always been an earnest champ'on of Oregon and his enthusiasm concerning the state and its opportunities was contagious. During his frequent trips to the east he delivered many lectures concerning Oregon and also frequently contributed descriptive matter to the press. He was a believer in the northwest and its splendid opportunities and, feeling that Christian progress should go hand and hand with material development, he labored untiringly to promote the influence of higher living among the people of the state. He brought with him to this country in 1848 a metal or tin tube, with which for years he measured as accurately as possible, the rain fall of the Willamette valley, these being the first records kept. In 1862, through the courtesy of Captain J. C. Ainsworth, he visited Lewiston and Tapwaii stations, the latter on the banks of the Clearwater, where Father Spalding was laboring with the friendly Nez Perce tribe of Indians at the time of the Whitman massacre. It was here the first printing press in Oregon was used. While here Dr. Atkinson preached to a remnant of the tribe, who with their intelligent chief, Langer, still lived at Tapwaii. In making the journey from Lewiston to Walla Walla behind a mule team, he noticed moisture in this barren, sage-brush country as the mules lifted their hoofs, and from that time he talked, wrote and prophesied the great future of eastern Oregon and Washington as a wheat country, to be brought about first he believed by dry farming. So anxious was he to have the flora of Oregon described in some botanical work, that in October, 1865, he persuaded Professor Alphonso Wood, author of Wood's Botany, to return with him to Oregon and study as far as possible the flora of the country. Together they made the ascent of Mount Hood from the point later known as government camp.

On the occasion of a public address at the dedication of the Congregational church in Tacoma, Washington, Edwin Eells said: "This tale of the historic beginning of Congregationalism would be far from complete if reference was not made to the first home missionary superintendent, the honored, reverend and much beloved Rev. George H. Atkinson, D. D. Indefatigable, earnest, kindly disposed, universally respected and beloved, he won the hearts of all. He stimulated the young and feeble organizations, gave hope and comfort to the discouraged, and in short made things go and go right. His travels over the territory were not in palace cars nor palatial steamboats but more often than any other way on the hurricane deck of the subdued cayuse pony or in the bottom of the highly scented canoe. His lodgings were not generally in the soft and comfortable bed of the hotel, but by the fireside of the humble pioneer he sat and conversed and went to rest in the same kind of straw-filled tick that the family had to use. But he was a true, polished Christian gentleman. Rarely is there found in the same person the courteous manner, the gentlemanly bearing, the genial temperament and the loving sympathy, combined with the indefatigable zeal, the indomitable perseverance and the heroic courage that won the respect, love and esteem of every one and gained the success that commanded the admiration of the entire community. Truly he was the apostle of Congregationalism in this state. His name will long be revered by all who knew him. His faith in the future was unbounded and his piety deeply sincere. He was the first home missionary sent out to this coast, arriving in Oregon City in 1848, and for a full generation was the mainstay of all the beginnings of Congregationalism both in Oregon and in Washington. When he passed away the denomination was desolate for he had excelled them all."

John Edrion Flynn

The width of the continent separates John Edrion Flynn from his birth place, for he is a native of Connecticut and his natal year was 1850. His parents, John and Mary (Lynch) Flynn, removed from New Jersey to New York, subsequently becoming residents of Connecticut, during which period their son John was born, and later went to Massachusetts. Afterward they left the east and in 1856 became residents of Illinois, where they remained until 1859, when they went to Missouri.

Up to that time John Edrion Flynn had accompanied his parents on their various removals, but while they were in Missouri he left home and in 1878, went to Colorado, settling at Leadville, where he followed mining for four years. He was also for a time in Silver City, New Mexico, where he acted as jailer of the Grant county jail and also as deputy sheriff. He then returned to Missouri and was married, after which he engaged in raising cattle and hogs. But the cholera broke out among his stock and so many died that he suffered greatly financially. In order to retrieve his lost possessions he sought the opportunities of the northwest, coming to Clarke county, Washington, in 1889. Here he located on railroad land, purchasing the title to it and continuing to occupy the place for fifteen years, or until he sold out. He then rented two hundred and forty acres of land at Grass Valley for three years, after which he leased about three hundred and twenty acres of the James Vernon ranch, twelve and a half miles east of Vancouver. He has since lived upon this place and is busily occupied with the duties of the farm, carefully conducting his interests in this connection. In 1907 he bought forty acres of land at Fern Prairie, which he rents to members of the family.

In 1883 Mr. Flynn was united in marriage to Miss Rosie L. Wilson, of Missouri, and they have nine children, Orion, Cassius, John Edward, Margaret Jane, Donald McKinzie, Rose Amy, Theodore, Ivy and Mary Hannah, all yet at home.

James William McKnight, a retired farmer of Portland, was born in Beardstown, Illinois, May 31, 1832. In that year the Black Hawk war was waged in his native state and forever set at rest the question of the supremacy of the white race over the broad prairies of Illinois. His parents were David and Matilda (Skidmore) McKnight, both of whom died in Iowa in the year 1847. The father was a millwright by trade and about 1837 removed with his family to Iowa. James W. McKnight attended school in Burlington, Iowa, and after completing his education began work as a farm hand at a wage of ten dollars per month. Later he was paid eleven dollars per month, which was considered a good salary at that time. In the winter, when the work of the fields was over, he engaged in cutting wood and was thus employed for about four years. From time to time stories came to the middle west concerning the opportunities of the Pacific coast country and, attracted by tales of the advantages to be enjoyed on the western border of the country, Mr. McKnight started over the plains on the 15th of April, 1852. Seven days before he was married and the bridal trip of the young couple consisted of the long journey to Oregon in a canvas covered wagon drawn by oxen. They left their home, about nine miles north of Burlington, and traveled for six months in a train composed of twelve wagons under command of Captain Campbell Settle. They had some exciting experiences while on the way and there was considerable sickness among the party. They had to ford rivers and were constantly on the watch against possible Indian attacks. However, they finally reached The Dalles in safety on the nth of September and proceeded down the Columbia to the mouth of the Sandy river, where they took the teams again and traveled by wagon to Linn county. Mr. McKnight took up a donation land claim, about four and a half miles west of Lebanon, securing three hundred and twenty acres of land. On that place he built a clapboard shanty, in which he and his wife spent the first winter. The little building had no floor and they lived in truly primitive style, but were encouraged by the hope of having things better soon. The original furnishing of the cabin home was also of a most crude character. A box served as a chair for his wife, while he sat upon a bran sack. The table was a tool chest that an old friend had given him. They had a skillet and a few cooking utensils and Mrs. McKnight had a gift of a hen and some little chickens.

They owned neither horses nor wagons when they went upon the farm and Mr. McKnight's cash capital consisted of about a dollar and sixty-five cents. This sum he was compelled to pay for nails with which to build the house, which was about sixteen feet square. The fireplace was made of mud and sticks. As soon as the house was completed he began making rails, having to go about four and a half miles to the timber in order to cut the trees. He worked for other people for four years, for he had no money with which to carry on the farm work on his own place or to provide for the household expenses before the farm became a source of revenue. The nearest neighbor was then about a half mile away. After living upon the claim for four years he became interested in the sawmill business, being associated with four other men in the operation of an old-fashioned sawmill run by water power. He continued in that business for two seasons and made about fifteen hundred dollars. He then returned to the farm, upon which he built a small box house. Unlike his original cabin, this contained a plank floor. He occupied that house until about 1885 and during that period carried on general agricultural pursuits in the summer, while in the winter seasons he operated the sawmill. After his boys were old enough to be of assistance to him he began raising wheat and engaged in that business extensively, producing about four thousand bushels annually. The farm thus became profitable and year by year his financial resources increased, so that the hardships and privations of early life here were utterly done away with and modern comforts were introduced into the home.

About 1886 Mr. McKnight removed to The Dalles, where he lived retired for three years because of his health. He also sent his children to school there. In 1890 he became a resident of Portland, taking up his abode in the Stephens addition, where he made his home for ten years. Later he built his present fine residence at No. 715 East Ash street and in addition to this property he still owns his original donation claim of three hundred and twenty acres.

As previously stated, before he started for the northwest Mr. McKnight was married. It was on the 7th of April, 1852, in Burlington, Iowa, that he wedded Miss Clarinda M. Wilson, a daughter of J. B. Wilson. She was born in Indiana, September 11, 1834. She shared with her husband in all the hardships of pioneer life and proved of much assistance to him in the work of the early days. She died April 15, 1910, on the fifty-eighth anniversary of the day on which they left Iowa for the northwest. Her remains were interred in Sandy Ridge cemetery in Linn county. She was the mother of seven children : James A., deceased; Frank E., of Vale; George W., who is engaged in the sheep business with his brother Frank at Vale; David B., who is assessor of Linn county ; Ida ; Roma J. ; and Winnie ; all at home.