Spokane, Washington - History, 1912 (part 19 of 23)

Mr. Hamilton is progressive in his political views but not radical, believing that present evils can be more effectively corrected through evolution than revolution. He gives his support to the men and measures of the democratic party and takes a vital interest in all local issues, having served as mayor of the city from 1909 to 1911. He holds membership in the New Inland Club of Spokane and the Spokane Amateur Athletic Club, and is a charter member and one of the organizers of the Coeur d'Alene Lodge No. 1254, B. P. O. E. Mr. Hamilton is descended from the early pioneers of this section of the country, who contributed their share toward advancing civilization. His grandfather joined the Oregon volunteers in 1856 and went to Spokane to assist in putting down the Cayuse Indians. Among the family relics of those early days is a picture of Spokane Falls taken in 1884, now in possession of I\Ir. Hamilton. He is one of the enterprising and progressive citizens of Coeur d'Alene, who enthusiastically gives his assistance to promoting the development of the community and its various public utilities.

Frank Raymond Washburn

Frank Raymond Washburn, who is well known as the manager of the J. I. Case Company, which is located on North Monroe street, was born in Cowlitz county, Washington, on the 12th of May, 1882, a son of Frank M. and Elizabeth (Frost) Washburn. The mother's death occurred in 1901 and the father had pre^aously passed away in 1894. They crossed the plains in 1844 with their respective families, and thus may be numbered among the true pioneers of the northwest. As soon as Frank M. Washburn reached the legal age he took up a donation land claim and was one of the first men to receive land in this way in the state of Washington.

Frank Raymond Washburn acquired his early education in the public schools of Washington and subsequentlv was a student in a business college of Spokane. During these years he was permitted to give his undiWded attention to his school work, and because of his careful work and diligent studj reached a liigh state of efficiency. Immediatel_v after his graduation from business college he was employed by the J. I. Case Company where he is today acting as manager. He has risen through all the stages of the business, having begun as messenger boy. His promotions have been the reward of merit and clearly show the recognition which his employers desired to give to his ability and his fidelity to their best interests.

On the 7th of January, 1903, Frank Raymond Washburn was married at Spokane to Miss Elizabeth Anna Paterman, a daughter of Ernest and Anna Theresa (Mueller) Paterman. To their union one child, Ralph R., has been born. Because of the demands his business makes upon liis time he has little leisure for club and church circles. However, he has never neglected his rights of citizenship and socially he is well and favorably known because of his geniality and courtesy and his regard for the rights and opinions of others.

L. P. Hole

For sixteen years L. P. Hole was associated with the development of Spokane and the northwest through his operations in the real-estate and loan business and in mining. His enterprise was widely recognized and his determined purpose enabled him to accomplish successfully any task to which he set himself. His history, therefore, should serve as a source of inspiration and encouragement to others, showing what may be done when energy and persistency point out tlie way.

Mr. Hole was a native of Ohio, his birth having occurred in Damascus, that state, on the 6th of November, 1860. His parents were Lemuel and Unity (Stanley) Hole, both of whom were descended from old Quaker families, and the father became a well known farmer of Damascus, Ohio. In the schools of that town L. P. Hole pursued his early education, which was supplemented by a commercial course in Mount Union College of Alliance, Ohio, that fitted him to take up the duties and responsibilities of business life. He continued in his native place until twenty-two years of age and then removed westward to northern Kansas, where he engaged in the loan business as agent for eastern capitalists. He afteward removed to South Dakota, where he continued in the same business for three years, and in 1888 he came to Spokane, where he entered the real-, estate and loan field, operating extensively along those lines, his sound judgment and keen discrimination constituting the basis of his substantial success. He afterward engaged in mining. Few there are who have resisted the attraction of the mines and Mr. Hole is numbered among those who won success in a search for valuable ore. His labors in this direction were crowned with very gratifying prosperity and he continued in these different lines of business until his life's labors were ended on the 2d of May, 1904.

It was on the 29th of June, 1886, in ^Mankato, Kansas, that Mr. Hole was united in marriage to Miss Sarah Cooper, a daughter of Orlando and Susan (Prentiss) Cooper, of Fremont, Ohio, who on leaving the Buckeve state removed to Kansas, where the father engaged in farming. Mr. Hole belonged to the Knights of Pythias. In his political views he was a republican and took an active interest in the welfare of his city, cooperating in measures, political or otherwise, which contributed to the general welfare. He had been reared in the Quaker faith and was a member of that church in his native town. He was ever recognized as a man of strong character and marked individuality, quiet and unassuming in manner and devoted to his home. His character and his career would bear close investigation and scrutiny, for he ever measured up to the highest standards of honorable and progressive manhood.

Archibald G. Rigg

Archibald G. Rigg, a Spokane architect, was born in Stratford, Ontario, April 5, 1878, his parents being William and Arabella (Harvey) Rigg, the former a native of Ayr, Scotland, and the latter of Lancastershire, England. The Riggs were well known in the land of hills and heather and the grandfather was a soldier under the duke of Welling^ton at the battle of Waterloo. William Rigg became a well known capitalist and with his brother owned large lumber mills and flour mills at Stratford, Ontario. He also served as mayor of the town and took an active part in guiding its destinies and promoting its development. He died in 1905, having long survived his wife, who passed away August 17, 1888. She was a cousin of the Allans, well known as proprietors of the transatlantic steamship lines and connected with a very old and prominent Scotch family. Mr. and Mrs. William Rigg had three sons, the brothers of our subject being: Dr. Charles F., a phj'sician and surgeon of Spokane; and William J., a practicing attorney of St. Louis.

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Archibald G. Rigg was educated at Trinity College of Toronto, Canada, and at Columbia College of New York. He was also a student under James Balfour of the University of Edinburgh, Scotland, and broad and liberal training fitted him for large responsibilities in later life. He began business at Danville, Illinois, as an architect under the firm name of Lewis & Rigg and there did work for "Uncle" Joe Cannon, long the distinguished speaker of the house of representatives. He executed a vast amount of work in Danville but on account of the ill health of his wife came to the west. For two years he was head draughtsman with Cutter & Malmgren and for a similar period with Albert Held. His father's illness called him back to the east and he remained there for four years to straighten up affairs, after which he entered into partnership with Messrs. Foltz and Parker, under the firm name of Foltz, Parker & Rigg, at Indianapolis. There he conducted a large amount of state work, building libraries, school houses, etc. The firm erected the Madison insane as}'lum at a cost of one million five hundred thousand dollars, also the First Christian church of Indianapolis, a number of school houses and the home of Senator Beveridge. Later Mr. Rigg returned to Spokane and formed a partnership with Julius A. Zittel under the firm name of Zittel & Rigg, with ofiices in the Jamieson building.

As a companion and helpmate on the journey of life ^Ir. Rigg chose Miss Maime Ethel Beck, of Indianapolis, a daughter of George C. Beck, who is a capitalist now residing at the San Marco apartments. Mr. and Mrs. Bigg have one daughter, Marian Beck, whose birth occurred on the 20th of July, 1911. The parents are members of the Knox Presbyterian church and are socially prominent and popular. Mr. Rigg is a republican and is a Mason, belonging to Oriental Lodge, No. 74, F. & A. M. He belongs also to the Chamber of Commerce, is a life member of the Spokane Amateur Athletic Club, the Inland Club, the Rotary Club and the Spokane Architectural Club and also of the Indiana Chapter of the American Institute of Architects. He stands prominent in his profession and yet into other lines of activity he has directed his eilorts with beneficial effect and has contributed in substantial and gratifying measure to public progress along many lines.

John C. Kleber

John C. Kleber, attorney at law, with office in the Old National Bank building, was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. His parents were Christian and Elizabeth (Bersch) Kleber, the former of whom died in 1889. Mr. Kleber is a direct descendant of General Kleber, who fought under Napoleon in the battles of the Pj^ramids and Mount Tabor.

John C. Kleber pursued his education in the common schools of his native state until he was seventeen years of age. At that time he engaged in teaching and for three years taught school in Wisconsin before coming west to Orting, Washington, where he accepted a position as principal of the schools for one year. In the pursuit of a more advanced education he imdertook the study of law in addition to his teaching and in 1883 he was admitted to the bar of Wisconsin. Leaving Orting in 1890, he settled in Olympia, where he entered upon the practice of law until 1899, and, although one of the younger representatives of the profession, he made a creditable record through the ability with which he handled the litigated interests entrusted to him. In May, 1899, he came to Spokane and he has since been located in this city, where he is carrying on an extensive practice. His preparation of cases is thorough, his reasoning clear and cogent and his arguments are based upon almost incontrovertible logic. He has also aside from his professional duties written "Kleber on Void Judicial Sales," a book which is a substantial treatise upon the particular subject. While at Olympia he wrote many articles for the Albany and Central Law Journals, which were published by the Banks Law Publishing Company. Two years ago he turned his literary efforts to the field of fiction and produced the "Masters Spirit," which has also been published. Since living in Washington he has become interested in the various activities undertaken for the development of the natural resources of the northwest and he is part owner of various mining properties in the Coeur d'Alene district and in Montana. He is also interested in irrigation projects in the Spokane valley.

On the 10th of September, 1885, at Winneconne, Wisconsin, Mr. Kleber was married to Miss Matie Owen, a daughter of R. C. and Frances Owen. To their union two children have been born, Narcissa, who is nine years of age and Frances who died here in 1907 at the age of sixteen. Mr. Kleber gives his support to the republican party but because of the strenuous duties of his practice he has never sought public office. He is a Knight Templar Mason and also belongs to El Katif Temple of the Mystic Shrine. His interest centers in those things which are elevating and uplifting and his influence is always found on the side of justice, truth and right. With an education which was obtained under most difficult circumstances to serve as the basis for advancement, he has made steady progress in the business world and in the practice of law has already gained gratifying success during the period of his connection with the bar.

Thomas K. Binnie

The history of Thomas K. Binnie is that of a man who without any special advantages at the outset of his career has labored diligently and has achieved much. He is now a prominent figure in business circles in Spokane as a member of the Binnie-Strickland Company, Inc., conducting an insurance and patent business. A native of Scotland, he was born in Ayrshire, May 12, 1872, and the schools of that coimtry afforded him his educational opportunities. He came to America in 1892. He was associated with the Inland Empire Company in the real-estate and insurance business, having chai'ge of their insurance department for thirteen years. He is today one of the best known fire insurance men in the northwest. Laudable ambition prompted him to utilize his efforts for engaging in business on his own account and on the 1st of January, 1910, he organized the Binnie-Strickland Company, Inc., and purchased the insurance business of the Inland Empire Company. On March 1, 1912, the Binnie-Strickland Company was consolidated with the Day & Hanson Security Company under the latter name and Mr. Binnie is the manager of the fire insurance department. Among the well known insurance companies which they represent are the Hartford Fire Insurance Company, the Springfield Fire & Marine Insurance Company, the Commercial Union

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Assurance Company, the Fidelity & Casualty Company of New York and the Pacific Coast Casualty Company of San Francisco. Aside from his operations in the insurance field Mr. Binnie was treasurer of the Big Bend Light & Power Company from its organization until he resigned because of the demands of his other business interests, on the 1st of January, 1911. He was president of the Spokane Association of Fire Insurance Agents and also of the Washington State Association of Fire Insurance Agents mitil January, 1911, positions which indicate his high standing among insurance men of this state for he has occupied the presidency of both bodies since their organization.

On the 1-lth of February, 1910, ^Ir. Binnie was united in marriage to ^liss Mabel L. Fisken, a daughter of Archibald and Sarah Fisken, of Seattle. He enjoys all manly athletic and outdoor sports and was active in the organization of the Northwestern Golf Association, being an enthusiastic advocate of the game.

Charles E. Ammann

Charles E. Ammann, who is manager of the Pacific Realty & Loan Company of Spokane, was born in Springfield, Illinois, on the 21st of January, 1881, his parents being Arnold and Caroline (Schwab) Ammann. The father's death occurred about twenty-five years ago.

Charles E. Ammann, who came to Spokane with his mother in 1887, received his preliminary education in the public schools of this city and afterward attended John R. Cassen's Business College. He completed these courses when he was sixteen years of age and immediately began working for the Northern Pacific Railway. He continued in their employ for eight years, after which time he entered into the real-estate business, associating himself with Harry Adams. Their first undertaking was disposing of the land in Greenacres, a suburb of this city. He was thus engaged for two years and met with such success in disposing of the land and thus starting a town that he saw several opportunities which were to he had in the mercantile line. Consequently he opened a general mercantile store in Greenacres and for one year was engaged in conducting this undertaking. At the end of that time he accepted a position with the Cook-Clark Real Estate Company and was in their employ six months before he was engaged as head salesman for the Hege Real Estate Company, where he remained for three years. During these years he had sufficient opportunity to show his intuitive ability in valuing land and also became thoroughly acquainted with the best methods to be used in dealing with prospective customers. His business has grown with the prosperity and expansion of the city and because of the straightforward business policy which he has ever pursued his patrons realize that they will receive fair treatment at his hands and also will be able to seek advice based upon his experience and knowledge. He is at present the general manager of the company and is also secretary of the Milloki Investment Company of this city.

On the 19th of April, 1903, Mr. Ammann was married at Spokane to Miss Hazel Ludden, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. W. H. Ludden. In politics he is independent, regarding the capability of the candidate rather than his party affiliations. He is a member of the Inland Club and the Spokane Chamber of Commerce. He is ever interested in matters pertaining to the welfare of the city and they have always received his earnest cooperation. Even though a young man he has thoroughly established himself in the business circles of Spokane and his life record thus far gives every indication for a successful career.

Charles A. O'Connor

Charles A. O'Connor, who is manager of the Holland Bank of Amsterdam, which is located in the Kuhn building, was born in Chicago, on the 15th of August, 1870, a son of Michael T. and Margaret (Clifford) O'Connor. The parents were born in Ireland and in that country received their education, the father graduating from the College of Dublin having taken a full course in the law department which prepared hinj to practice as a barrister at law. In 1861 he came to the United States and settled in Chicago, being admitted to the bar of that city, where he practiced in the law office of Judge Van Buren, one of the well known attorneys of that city. As the west opened up, he desired to follow the trend of civilization and he traveled through Indiana, Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota and the Dakotas. He finally arrived in Spokane, where he practiced for two years before his death, which occurred in 1909. Mrs. O'Connor is at present residing in this city.

Charles A. O'Connor pursued his education in the public schools of Chicago, the Catholic schools of Michigan and Wisconsin, and the public schools of North Dakota. Although his schooling was frequently interrupted because of the many changes of residence which his parents made, he successfully completed the courses of study commonly offered by the high school. While in North Dakota he took a four years' course of law in his father's office but did not qualify for the examinations in that state. He came to this city in the spring of 1891 and matriculated in the Spokane College taking a full course of three years, at which time he was graduated and the degree of B. L. was conferred upon him. In 1910 he applied and was admitted to the bar of the state of Washington. Subsequent!}' he accepted a position as bookkeeper and walking boss for the W. J. Keefe Company, extensive sub-contractors in the construction of the Great Northern Railway. He followed the railroad contracting business for several years before returning to Spokane, at which time he bought an interest in a railroad contractor's outfit and secured a sub-contract on the Sunnyside canal, one of the large irrigation projects of this valley. This undertaking occupied his time for nearly two years. Later he engaged in agricultural pursuits for one year in the Palouse country before becoming connected with the contracting and regrading operations of the Northern Pacific Railroad from Billings, jNIontana, to Mandan, North Dakota. In 1899 he accepted a position as bookkeeper with the Holland Bank of Amsterdam and in 1907, together with Henri Crommelin, was appointed manager and United States agent for the bank. This company opened its operations in this city in 1896. They deal in farm mortgages and the city of Spokane mortgages, carrying on a business involving loans of several million dollars. Mr. O'Connor's clerical, financial and executive ability have won the approval of the leading men in the business circles of this city and the institution with which he

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Mr. O'Connor was married at Spokane, on the 18th of Juh", 1901, to Miss Anna Delia Wann, a daughter of James Hague Wann, of Lewiston, Idaho. They have two children, Claire Addison and Michael James. The family residence is at 829 Cliff avenue. Because of the extent of his business undertakings and operations Mr. O'Connor has never had time to take an active part in the political affairs of this city. Although he exercises his right of franchise and realizes his duties of citizenship he has never affiliated with any particular party, casting his vote for man or measure at issue. He is a member of the Knights of Columbus and the Spokane Amateur Athletic Club.

Judge Ephram H. Sullivan

An honored name on the roll of the judiciary of Washington is that of Ephram H. Sullivan, judge of the Spokane superior court, having jurisdiction over department No. 4. Nature endowed him with strong intellect and his distinction as a member of the bar has come because he has wisely and conscientiously used the talents that were given him. He was born in Eaton county, Michigan, July 31, J 850, his parents being Potter Charles and Rhoba Ann (Berry) Sullivan. The father was bom near Syracuse, New York, July 4, 1823, and represented an old New England family originally from Ireland. The mother, a native of central New York, was of English descent. In the year 1840 Potter C. Sullivan removed westward to Eaton county, Michigan, and later became a resident of Nebraska, where he served as speaker of the house for the second territorial legislature, being elected at Washington, D. C. When not in public office he engaged in the practice of law in Nebraska until the fall of 1855, when he became one of the founders of the town of De Soto, Nebraska, twenty-two miles north of Omaha and six miles below Blair. The latter town was built on land owned by an uncle of Judge Sullivan. In 1858 Potter C. Sullivan removed to what was known as the Sweetwater country, now Wyoming, and founded South Pass City on Sweetwater river, there spending the winter. Since that time the town has been moved twenty-four miles above its original site. In 1862 the father continued his westward journeyings, the trip across the plains consuming five months. The first part of the trip from De Soto to Sweetwater took six weeks and the remainder of the time was consumed in making the long journey from Sweetwater to the Willamette valley in Oregon, where he arrived with his family in October, 1862. In 1866 he was elected prosecuting attorney of Polk county, Oregon, filling the position until 1868, and in that year he lacked but one vote of securing the nomination of the republican party for congress. His wife died in Salem, Oregon, March 8, 1875, and in 1878 the family removed to Colfax, Washington, where on the 8th of June, 1883, Potter C. Sullivan died from heart failure while engaged in making a speech in a murder case in court. Mr. and Mrs. Sullivan had a family of four sons and three daughters. William J. Sullivan, the eldest, born in Eaton county. New York, July 10, 18>8, is a miner of Kern coimty, California. Judge Sullivan is the second in order of birth. Electa, born in Eaton county, Michigan, in 1852, was married in 1869 to James McCain, an attorney of McMinnville, Oregon, and died August 17, 1908. Prescott Cato, born in De Soto, Nebraska, in 1856, is living in California. Potter Charles, born in De Soto, Nebraska, June 17, 1859, practices law in Tacoma and Seattle. He came to Washington in 1884 and entered upon practice as a member of the law firm of Sullivan, Wolford & Sullivan in Colfax, and in 1889 he was sent as a member from Pierce county as a delegate to the constitutional convention. Rhoba May, born on the Sweetwater in May, 1862, became the wife of A. Mead, of Colfax, Washington, and they now reside in Iowa. Mary Isabelle, born in Yamhill county, Oregon, March 28, 1864, became the wife of Frank C. Morse, of Colfax, Washington, and they now reside in Olympia, where Mr. Morse is a clerk in the land department.

Judge Sullivan supplemented his early education, acquired in the public schools of Dallas, Oregon, by study in Willamette University of Salem, that state. He began teaching school in Polk county, Oregon, in the spring of 1868 and followed that profession at intervals for ten years. The family resided upon a farm in Yamhill county, Oregon, until the fall of 1864 and then went to Dallas, removing thence to Salem in 1874. In 1878 they became residents of Colfax, Washington. In December, 1877, Judge Sullivan went upon a ranch ten miles north of Colfax and there resided for two years. In the meantime he had devoted his leisure hours for several years to reading law and when he had mastered the principles of jurisprudence sufficiently to enable him to pass the required examination for admission to the bar, in June, 1881, at Colfax, he opened an office for practice in that city with O. L. Wolford and in 1884 formed a partnership with his brother Charles and O. L. Wolford, under the firm name of Sullivan, Wolford & Sullivan. Following the withdrawal of Charles Sullivan, the firm name became Sullivan, Wolford & Chadwick. At length Mr. Wolford retired and the admission of another partner led to the adoption of the firm name of Sullivan, Chadwick & Brown. When Mr. Brown severed his connection with the firm the name was changed to Sullivan, Chadwick & Fullerton. Both Mr. Chadwick and Mr. Fullerton became members of the supreme court of the state and Judge Sullivan was appoinred superior judge of Whitman county about January 1, 1891, his term covering two years. In 1892 he was elected to the office for four years, so that he remained for six years upon that bench. Removing to Spokane, he began practice in this city with the firm of Nuzum & Nuzum, on the 1st of January, 1899, and remained with them imtil appointed to the superior bench of Spokane county on the 17th of March, 1907. On the 8th of November, 1908, he was elected to that position for a term of four years. He has won for himself very favorable criticism for the careful and systematic methods which he has followed. While he was well grounded in the principles of common law when admitted to the bar, he has continued through the whole of his professional life a diligent student of those elementary principles that constitute the basis of all legal science and this knowledge has served him well in passing upon intricate questions which have come before his court for decision. He has been constantly inspired by an inflexible love of justice together with that delicate sense of personal honor which has controlled him in all his personal relations.

On the 27th of April, 1882, in Colfax, Washington, Judge Sullivan was united in marriage to Miss Maria Lucy Spaulding, a daughter of the Rev. D. L. Spaulding, a Methodist minister, who died in Spokane in 1905. Her brother is also preaching in the Methodist church, being now located at Toppenish, Washington.

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The Judge and Mrs. Sullivan have three children. Frankie Belle, who was born at Colfax, March 25, 1883, was graduated from the Spokane high school and normal school and now resides at Bellingham. Floy, born in Colfax, May 25, 1884, is also in Bellingham. Elva Marie, born in Spokane, June 30, 1902, is attending school. Judge Sullivan holds membership in Spokane Aerie, No. 2, Order of Eagles, of which he has been president for the past two years. He took an active part in Republican politics in Whitman county and was a delegate to the republican territorial convention of 1888 but has not been an active worker in republican ranks since taking his place upon the bench. He allows nothing to interfere with the faithful performance of his judicial duties and his decisions indicate strong mentality, careful analysis and thorough knowledge of the law and an unbiased judgment.

John Dowd Bassett

John Dowd Bassett, head of the Connecticut Investment Company, which he organized in March, 1911, -svith offices located at 115 Wall street, Spokane, has been prominently identified ^vith the financial interests of eastern Washington since locating in Ritzville twelve j'gars ago. He is a native of New England, having been born in Plainfield, Connecticut, on the 6th of January, 1858, and is a son of W. E. and Mary (Dowd) Bassett. The parents were also natives of Connecticut and there the father, who was a graduate of Yale University, was identified with the ministry of the Congregational church for more than a quarter of a century. He passed away in his native state in 1881.

Reared in the vicinity of his birth, John Dowd Bassett began his education in the common schools but later attended Williston Seminary at East Hampton, Massachusetts, foUo^ving which he spent a year at Yale. Having decided upon a business career he terminated his student days in 1878 and entered a law and real-estate office in Rochester, Minnesota, where for six months he discharged the duties of a clerk. At the expiration of that period he returned to Connecticut, locating at Norfolk, where for some time he held a clerkship in the bank of Cowles & Eldridge. Late in the autumn of 1880 he again went west, spending the succeeding six months on a cattle ranch in Kansas. The following year he again located in Norfolk, where in 1883 he became associated ^vith a Mr. Clark in establishing the mercantile house of Clark & Bassett. In the fall of 1886 the west again attracted him and he went to Hartington, Nebraska, purchasing an interest in the Cedar County Bank. He remained there for five years, during which time he became identified with three or four banks in Nebraska and Iowa. From early boyhood, Mr. Bassett had been deeply interested in the northwest and during the passing years closely observed its progress and development, believing that it was ultimately destined to become one of the wealthiest districts of the United States, so he disposed of his interests in Nebraska in 1891 and came to Ritzville. There he organized the Adams County Bank, after which he went to Snohomish, this state, and established the Snohomish National Bank. He spent six months in Washington and at the end of that time went back to Norfolk to become secretary of the Aetna Silk Company, remaining there for eight years. In March, 1899, he dis- posed of all of his eastern interests with the expectation of making his home in the west thereafter. Upon his return to Washington he first located in Ritzville, continuing to reside there until 1909. During the ten years he lived there he organized from twelve to fourteen banks at various points in Adams, Lincoln, Grant and Benton counties, being the principal stockholder and president of each. In June, 1909, he disposed of the most of his banking interests to the Union Securities Company of Spokane, being associated with this company in the capacity of supervisor of their various banks until January, 1911. While located at Ritzville, Mr. Bassett had engaged quite extensivelj' in making loans on farm lands and in March of the latter year he organized the Connecticut Investment Companj^ of Spokane, which concern has taken over and increased the business he conducted while living in Adams county. Although this organization has been in existence but a few months, its development has been most satisfactory and under the capable direction of its foiuider it will unquestionably become one of the leading investment companies of the city.

On the 31st of August, 1886, Mr. Bassett was united in marriage to Miss Julia L. Selden, of Norfolk, Connecticut, who died in July, 1896, and they became the parents of three children, as follows: Joseph E., who was born on November 27, 1887, graduating from W'hitman College in 1910, now engaging in the operation of a fruit ranch at Attalia, Washington; Mary D., born on the 15th of December, 1889, a member of the class of 1912, of Whitman; and Emma S., whose birth occurred on the 15th of September, 1891. In 1898 Mr. Bassett married Miss Alice Case, of Barkhausted, Connecticut. The family home is located at South 730 Lincoln place, where they have a very pleasant and attractive residence.

]Mr. Bassett is a deacon of Westminster Congregational church, in which his wife and children also hold membership, and fraternally he is identified with the Masonic order at Ritzville, having joined this organization while living in Connecticut where he was senior warden of Western Star Lodge, No. 37, A. F. & A. M. of Norfolk, and he is likewise a member of the Ritzville Camp of the Modern Woodmen of America. Ever since granted the right of franchise, Mr. Bassett has taken an active interest in politics, voting the republican ticket. He was elected to his first office, which was that of town constable, in Connecticut in 1880, later he was made secretary of the county school board, and he was at one time city treasurer of Norfolk, and also chairman of the county committee, while in 1887 he was a member of the state legislature. From 1905 to 1907 he represented Adams county in the Washington legislature and in 1909 he was state senator. Mobile in the legislature he was chairman of the bank, insurance and education committees, having been chairman of the latter committee twice, and was instrumental in introducing and promoting the passage of many important laws affecting these activities. He was at the head of the education committee when the present code was submitted and passed in 1909, and the following year, in 1910, he was appointed chairman of the committee to prepare the insurance code now in effect in this state. Devoting as he did a great deal of time and attention to the work on education and insurance, Mr. Bassett probably introduced more bills bearing upon tlie vital issues of the session than any other one member. During his last term he was the second member of the appropriation committee of the senate. Mr. Bassett has always been prominently identified with the development and promotion of the various public benefactions, and is now a member of the state library commission, trustee of the state anti-saloon league, member of the Spokane board of associated charities, and a trustee of the Young Men's Christian Association, Whitman College and the State Congregational Association, while in 1909 he was chosen vice president of the State Bankers' Association. When living in Eitzville he expended much effort in the organization of the Carnegie library, having been president of the board from 190i luitil he removed to Spokane in 1910, and secured the donation for the building from the eminent philanthropist whose name it bears. Mr. Bassett is a man who is interested in all that pertains to the material, intellectual, moral or social welfare of the community, and is tireless in his efforts to promote the adoption of every movement that he feels will in any way tend to advance the public standards or uplift humanity.

John W. Strack

John W. Strack, who is one of the jirominent civil engineers of Washington, was born in Ontario, Canada, on January 26, 1857, his parents being John and Lena (Demert) Strack. When he was but a child the family removed to Michigan and there in the common schools he received his early education. When he was thirteen years of age it was necessary that he should permanently lay aside his text-books and start to earn his own livelihood. He was employed in any position which he could obtain until 1874, when he went to Minneapolis, Minnesota, and for nine years worked in the Washburn mill in that city. Leaving there he came to Spokane and since his arrival in this city has been actively engaged in civil engineering work. His first two years were spent in railroad construction work in and near the city and subsequently he was a member of the surveying party that was employed by the Spokane Palouse branch of the Northern Pacific road. He next took a position with the surveying crew employed by the Narrow Gauge Railroad under D. C. Corbin. In 1889 he had acquired sufficient skill in his chosen pursuit and had won recognition for his ability to such an extent that he was able to open up an independent office under the firm name of Riblet & Strack. Among the civic positions which he has filled have been city engineer under the administrations of Mayors Firth, Drumheller, E. L. Powell and during a part of the term of H. N. Belt. From 1894 until 1898 he served as coimty engineer and for two years was employed by the Washington Water Power Company. Since that time he has been engaged in private engineering. ^^Tien he was associated wth B. C. Riblet under the name of Riblet & Strack from 1888 to 1891 they had the distinction of platting one-half of the city of Spokane. Since then j\Ir. Strack had the preliminary work in connection with the surveying and platting for the Vera Land Company's irrigation project and the Loon Lake irrigated land.

On the 12th of December, 1889, Mr. Strack was married, at Spokane, to Miss Ida May Snyder, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. .T. E. Snyder. To their union two children were born: Royal B., who is twenty-one years of age; and John Lester, three years of age. Mrs. Strack's death occurred on the 24th of January, 1911.

In politics Mr. Strack maintains an independent attitude, being fully aware of the corrupt policies frequently propagated by the parties who are dominated by machine rule. He has, however, taken an active part in political affairs as far as the promotion and welfare of the city have been concerned. By sheer force of perseverance, effort and hard labor Mr. Strack has risen from an obscure position to one which involves skill, technical knowledge and a good degree of work. It is not so much the position whicli a man holds as the heights to which he has risen from liis starting point that reveal the success of a business career such as that of Mr. Strack. He had to face many difficulties which only indomitable will and great courage could overcome, but he has met and conquered these situations and today enjoys a success which attests his worth.

Arthur N. Cantril

Arthur N. Cantril, general manager of the Spokane Gas & Fuel Company, which position he has iilled since the 1st of January, 1910, has during the brief period of his residence in this cit}' established himself in an enviable position in the public regard, by reason of his business capability and his personal worth. He was born at Castle Rock, Colorado, January 23, 1877. His father, Simeon W. Cantril, a native of Iowa, represented an old New England familj' of English and Scotch descent that was founded in America prior to the Revolutionary war. He became a soldier in the Civil war, serving throughout the contest between the north and south. He was general superintendent of the Denver City Tramway Company and was chief deputy county assessor at Denver for one term. His death occurred in December, 1909, but his widow is still living in Denver. She bore the maiden name of Nagel, was born in Iowa and came of a family conspicuous in the Revolutionary war. The Nagels are of German descent and the ancestry is traced back to Frederick the Great. Mrs. Cantril holds membership with the Daughters of the American Revolution. By her marriage she became the mother of two sons and a daughter: Arthur N.; Albert H., a physician and surgeon of Douglas, Wyoming; and Edna E., who has recently left the university at Denver and is now attending college in Madison, Wisconsin.

Arthur N. Cantril spent his boyhood and youth in Denver, pursuing his. education through consecutive grades in the public and high schools of that city. Throughout nearly his entire business career he has been connected with the Une in which he is now engaged. He was first employed by the Denver Consolidated Gas Company in 1895 as assistant to the meter repair man, and acted in that capacity for eight months, after which he was made salesman in the Welsbach department. In 1899 the gas and electric companies were consolidated and Mr. Cantril was made manager of the sales department of the new company. Subsequently he was called to the management of the fitting department, in which he continued until he left that position to enter the commission business on his own account in Denver. After two years, however, he returned to the Gas & Electric Company and after a year spent in the new business department he was made manager of the business department for the Grand Rapids (Michigan) Gas Company. Mr. Cantril spent a year and a half there and then again took a long step in advance when he accepted the appointment of general manager of the Pueblo Gas & Fuel Company at Pueblo, Colorado. There he remained for three years, when he was made manager for the

Spokane And The Inland Empire 679

Spokane Gas & Fuel Companj', which position he has filled since the 1st of January, 1910. The policj' of the company has been outlined by Henry L. Doherty, of No. 60 Wall street, New York city, who owns the Spokane company as well as many other properties throughout the country, including the one at Denver. His is a broad-minded and liberal policy, his first consideration being that of approaching as nearly as possible to perfection in all branches of the service and according to the people courteous treatment at all times. Straightforward dealing has ever been a salient feature of the business and the policy of Mr. Doherty has been faithfully carried out in Spokane. ISIr. Cantril is putting forth every effort in his power to give to the public service of the highest possible character.

While residing in Pueblo Mr. Cantril was a director of the Chamber of Commerce and of the Transportation Club. He was also an officer in the Elks lodge of that city and was offered the position of lecturing knight in the order, but business interests called him away from Colorado. A resolution was passed by his lodge eulogizing the work that he had done, Mr. E. J. Scott in his resolution speaking of it as a "beautiful work," also indicating how Mr. Cantril would be missed in the order and commending him to all true and faithful Elks everywhere. While in Denver he belonged to the Royal Arcanum and was past regent of Denver Council, No. 593, and at one time a member of the grand lodge of the state of Colorado. He was also a member of the Royal League and he now belongs to the Masonic fraternity, being identified with Oriental Consistory, A. A. S. R., and also El Katif Temple of the Mystic Shrine. He also holds membership with the Spokane Club, the Country Club, the Inland Club and the Chamber of Commerce.

On the 9th of September, 1899, Mr. Cantril was married in Denver to ^liss Edna Hardeman, a daughter of Robert Hardeman, deceased, who at one time was mayor of Aspen, Colorado, and was prominent in the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. Both Mr. and Mrs. Cantril hold membership in the First Presbyterian church and their interests and activities are always found on the side of order, of progress and improvement. Mr. Cantril has made advancement in the business world through the wise use of time, talent and opportunities. He has ever made his service of worth in the different positions which he has filled and has therefore been called to a place of large responsibility as manager of the Spokane Gas & Fuel Companj'.

Samuel Merrill

Samuel Merrill, who is president of the National Lumber Company, whose offices are located in the Paulsen building, was born in Haverhill, ^Massachusetts, on the 19th of December, 1852, his parents being George E. and Susan (Putnam) Merrill, who died on the 22d of December, 1869, and the 14th of March, 1907, respectively. The Merrill family trace their lineage back to the Revolutionary times, and the great-grandfather of the subject of this review was a prominent soldier in the Revolutionary war. Samuel ^lerrill %vas given his early educational advantages in the public schools of Haverhill, and subsequently attended high school for two years. After he put aside his text-books and was about to start upon an independent career to earn his own livelihood, he removed to Danville, Illinois, where he was employed for five years. In 1876 he went to Denver, Colorado, and worked for a lumber company of that city for seven years previous to removing to Cheyenne, Wyoming, where he again engaged in the lumber business, this time forming a partnership with Mr. Morrison, and for eighteen years conducted an extensive establishment. They also opened a branch at Salt Lake City, and the son is now president and manager of that concern. Mr. Merrill disposed of his lumber business in Wyoming, moved to Salt Lake City and subsequently, in 1905, came to Spokane, where he has since been actively associated with the same line. He is now president of the National Lumber Company, as well as the Exchange Lumber Company, and is interested in the Spokane Valley Lumber & Box Company. He seems to possess an intuitive sense of lumber valuations, and in handling all the property which has passed through his hands he has proven his worth as a lumberman and his ability as a business man. The success which is now his is entirely the result of his own efforts, his perseverance and his untiring energy.

On the 9th of August, 1880, Mr. Merrill was married in Denver, to Miss Tresa Pennington, a daughter of Edmund and Isabell (Roberts) Pennington. To them six children have been born, namely: George E., who married Lillian Chapman; Mary and Ruth, who are attending school in Boston, Massachusetts ; Eleanor, who is a student at Brunot Hall; and Helen and Samuel, who are attending the public schools of Spokane. In politics Mr. Merrill is a republican and one of the prominent members of the political circles of this city. However, his political activities have not been confined to civic circles as he has served as a member of the first state legislature of Wyoming and was also a member of the senate for two terms. He was mayor of Cheyenne one term and served on the city council for three years. He holds membership in the Inland Club, the Knights of Pythias, where he has passed through all the chairs, and is a first-degree member of the Masons.

Louis Olson

There is no doubt that some men are born to success. They are endowed with courage, self-reliance, and physical and mental strength and they seem to possess true ideas as to the value of life and the great importance of improving every opportunity. All obstacles give way before such determined spirits and they gain leadership wherever they are known. Louis Olson, of Deer Park, belongs to the class briefly outlined. He is a native of Sweden, born September 13, 1857, a son of Olaf and Cecil (Olafson) Olson. The mother died in 1860 and the father was called away twelve years later.

Louis Olson received his education in the common schools of his native country. At the age of fifteen he began meeting the world upon his own account and for three years worked in the timber lands of Sweden. He served two years in the Swedish army and farmed for a number of years in Norway. He was married in the latter country and at the age of twenty-six, in order to possess advantages which he could scarcely hope to enjoy in the thickly populated regions of the old world, he emigrated to America alone, proceeding direct to Chicago. There he was taken sick with typhoid fever and was ill for eighteen weeks. This was rather a discouraging experience for a young man starting out among strangers hut he resolutely faced the new conditions and upon recovering his strength went to Michigan and was employed for eight months in the lumber districts. He then returned to Chicago and sent for his family. He next went to Hicks, North Dakota, and worked in the harvest fields and at other employment for eight months. In 1888 he arrived at Spokane, Washington, and was employed for two months on a farm and for eleven months in sawmills. He then located on a homestead near Deer Park, where he lived until 1910, since which time he has resided in town. In 1906 he purchased a butcher shop in Deer Park and added a line of groceries. The year following he erected a new double building and organized a company which was incorporated as the Olson Mercantile Company. He disposed of his interest in the business in 1911 but has retained ownership in the building. He is now engaged in erecting another large business building in Deer Park and is also selling cord wood upon an extensive scale to Spokane companies. He has served as vice president and president of the First State Bank of Deer Park but does not hold any office in connection with that institution at the present time. Having been unusually industrious and energetic, he is recognized as one of the most flourishing citizens of Deer Park. He has been especially fortunate in bnj'ing and selling land in this region and now owns three hundred and twenty acres near Deer Park and valuable property in the town.

In September, 1878, Mr. Olson was married in Norway to Miss Hannah Johnson, a daughter of John Johnson, and to this union twelve children have been born: Olaf, who married Libby Neaville; Clara, now Mrs. Cruise; Olive, who wedded A. Roland; John, who married Maud Mitchell; Hoken, who married Carrie Ackley ; and James, Louis, Minnie, Albert, Oscar, Lena and Edwin. Mr. and Mrs. Olson have given their children every desirable opportunity of education and trained them to become useful and honorable members of society, a credit to the family and to their country and state. Mr. Olson has set a worthy example of industry and loyal citizenship and is one of the most highly respected men in this part of the county. He and his wife are members of the Lutheran church to which he is a liberal contributor. In politics he adheres to the republican party. He is an active worker in behalf of good government and served as township treasurer in 1909 and in 1907-8-9 was a delegate to republican county conventions at Spokane. A lover of liberty, he was fortunate indeed to seek a home in America, for here his early dreams have been more than realized and the future gives promise of still greater accomplishment.

William Seehorn

William Seehorn, who to his friends is familiarly known as Billie Seehorn, one of the progressive business men of Spokane, is the owner of the Seehorn Transfer & Storage Company, which has its headquarters on South Lincoln street. He was born in Adams county, Illinois, on the 19th of August, 1860. His grandparents were among the early settlers of that state, arriving there in 1820. The parents, John D. and Almira (Bean) Seehorn, passed away in 1903 and 1872 respectively.

In the common schools of Illinois William Seehorn received his education until he was fourteen years of age. At that time he laid aside his text-books and began work on the home farm, assisting his father in the daily duties and at the same time gaining his first experience in the working world. At the age of nineteen years, desiring to enter upon an independent career and believing in the possibilities which the west offered, he came to Spokane and has since made this city his abode. During his first two years' residence he worked as a laborer and subsequently accepted employment at the North Pacific Hotel for four years. During these six j'ears, because of his exceptional abilitj^ and conscientious labor, he accumulated sufficient capital to enable him to establish a transfer and storage business, of which he is still the owner and manager. He now enj oys a large patronage and his rapid advance in the business world has been due wholly to his own efforts. He has ever been fair in his dealings with the public and has firmly established himself in the business circles of Spokane.

On the 3d of August, 1886, Mr. Seehorn was married to Miss Nora Cowean, a daughter of C. T. and Anna Cowean, who reside four miles west of Spangle, Washington. To Mr. and Mrs. Seehorn two children have been born, Frank and Claude. Mr. Seehorn is deeply interested in all measures which tend to further the development of Spokane. Not affiliating with any political party, he casts his vote for the man or measure which he thinks will be most efficient in assisting in a government which will work for public welfare. His spirit of determination, which enables him to unfalteringly pursue a course which he has marked out until it reaches its culmination in success, has won for him the respect of his fellow citizens.

John L. Warn

John L. Warn is the senior partner of The Toggery, Ltd., an exclusive men's furnishing-goods house, with which he has been connected since February, 1911. He was born on the -ith of September, 1865, at Frostburg, Maryland, and is a son of William and Jane (Williams) Warn.

Reared in the state of his nativity in the acquirement of his education John L. Warn attended the public schools. He began his business career at the age of twenty years, when he opened a drug store in Blue Earth, Minnesota. He conducted this business, of which he was the sole proprietor, until 189-1, when he disposed of liis interests and went into the shoe business, taking a position as traveling salesman for Kellogg, Johnson & Co., of St. Paul, Minnesota. His territory covered the states of Iowa and Minnesota for seven years, following which the company transferred him to Salt Lake City. During the first year of his residence in the west he had the state of Utah and the southern portion of Idaho, but in 1902 he was given northern Idaho and Spokane, Washington, thereafter making his headquarters in the latter city. At the expiration of the following year he severed his connection with this firm and became the representative of the Sherood Shoe Company, of St. Paul. He continued in the employment of the latter company until February, 1911, when he came to Spirit Lake and became associated with H. L. Hanson in the organization of "The Toggery," of which Mr. Warn is president, and Mr. Hanson secretary and treasurer. They keep a well selected stock of boots, shoes, clothing and furnishing goods, which they offer at reasonable prices. They have a very attractive store and are most courteous and gracious in their treatment of patrons, and have succeeded during the brief period of their operations in building up a good trade.

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For his wife Mr. Warn chose Miss Margaret O. Kaupp, a daughter of Otto Kaupp of Blue Earth, Minnesota. Mr. Kaupp has for many years been prominently connected with the public life of the town, having served as county treasurer for several terms, while he was postmaster during the Cleveland administration, this office now being held by his son, who received his appointment in 1903. Three children have been born of the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Warn : Mary Beatrice, whose birth occurred in 1891, now the wife of F. R. Winston of Spokane, a son of P. H. Winston; William Otto, who was born in 1894; and Margaret Brenda. born in 1906.

In 1886, while residing in Blue Earth, Mr. Warn became identified with the Masonic fraternity, and is still a member of Blue Earth Lodge, No. 57, F. & A. M. and a charter member of Mount Zion Chapter, No. 68, R. A. !M., also of Blue Earth. The religious views of himself and wife are manifested through their membership in the Methodist Episcopal church, in the faith of which denomination they have reared their family. Although he has been connected with the commercial life of Spirit Lake but for a brief period, Mr. Warn has made a most favorable impression in the town both in his business and social relations, and his success in connection with "The Toggerj^" seems to be assured.

Edward Joseph O'Shea

The financial circles of Spokane are ably represented by Edward Joseph O'Shea, who is secretary of the New World Life Insurance Companj', having offices located in the Old National Bank building. His birth occurred in New York city on the 15th of April, 1873, his parents being Daniel and Ellen (Hassett) O'Shea, both of whom are living. Daniel O'Shea came to the United States from Ireland, his native country, when he was fifteen years of age. He served in the United States navy in the Civil war and was a participant in the battles of Fort Fisher, Port Royal and fought under Admiral Farragut at New Orleans.

Edward Joseph O'Shea acquired his education in the public and Catholic schools of New York, and subsequently attended New York City College for two years. Desiring, however, to start upon an independent career and to make his beginning in a country which oifered unlimited possibilities to a man of energy and ability, he came to Spokane in 1889. At first he was employed in the Fort Spokane Post Trading establishment for nine years, and during a part of this time acted also as postmaster. The trading post was closed about 1898, and Mr. O'Shea accepted a position as credit man for the McGowan Brothers Hardware Company. He was thus employed for three years before engaging in the gents-furnishing and tailoring business at 407 Riverside avenue with R. H. Wallace as partner. During the eight vears in which he was interested in this enterprise he made the acquaintance of many of the prominent men of the business circles of Spokane and also won the respect and regard of all with whom he had dealings. After he disposed of this business he became secretary of the New World Life Insurance Company, and has since been thus engaged. He is one of the directors of the company and was associated with E. J. Cannon, Dr. H. B. Luhn and others as its organizers. He is also a director of the National Bank of Commerce.

In politics Mr. O'Shea is independent, having no sympathy with the machine rule which largely dominates the parties, but seeking rather to support men and principles. He holds membership in the Spokane Club and in the Spokane Amateur Athletic Club, of which he has been director and secretary for two years. He is fourth-degree member of the Knights of Columbus, was deputy grand knight of Spokane Council, No. 683, and for three j'ears district deputy for eastern Washington. He also holds membership in Spokane Lodge No. 228, Benevolent Protective Order of Elks, and in religious faith is affiliated with the Catholic church.

Garibaldi Albi

America has given opportunities for successful careers to many energetic and ambitious Europeans who have come west with the determination to make the most of the advantages offered by a new and rapidly developing country. The natives of the northern countries of Europe bring with them the sturdy and thrifty industrial habits of their representative nationalities, and by applying these traits in their undertakings in America win remarkable success. The sons of Italy however, find climatic conditions, labor ideals, living necessities and racial characteristics antithetical to those of southern Europe, and when they rise in the commercial and industrial world in the United States they do it by sheer force and strength of character and energy, and by a perseverance which is not only phenomenal but highly commendable. To this latter class belongs Garibaldi Albi, who is the owner of real estate in Spokane and who is acting as steamship agent and also managing a real-estate business at 220 Washington street. His birth occurred in Italy on the 14th of January, 1861, and he is a son of Joseph and Rose (Veeltri) Albi. The father's death occurred in 1902 and the mother is still living.

Garibaldi Albi received his education in Italy, but, with the exception of those for the wealth}-, the educational advantages of Italy are limited. With his meager education as his only asset Mr. Albi set out to earn his own way in the world at the early age of ten years. He first went to Sicily where he worked for five years before going to Tunis, Africa, where he was employed for three years. In these countries where there is little room to rise both because of limited industrial activities and poor agricultural advantages, Mr. Albi realized that he must come to America if he would win the success which he desired. Consequently he left Europe and Africa and went direct to Denver, Colorado, where he resided for a while. During his residence in that city he was employed in railroad work, and subsequently followed the same line of work throughout the northwest, including Canada. He came to the Spokane country in 1889 and accepted employment in several lines of work imtil he engaged in the saloon business which he conducted until 1907. In that year he entered the real-estate business and has since been conducting this most profitable enterprise. He also has a steamship agency, and in that way has the opportunity of being of much assistance to many Italians. So ably has he conducted his various midertakings and so thrifty have his habits been that he is at present the owner of a large and valuable brick building located at Front and Washington streets.

On December 24, 1892. at Senora, California, Mr. Albi was married to Miss Louise Ottobone, a daughter of Gerolimo and !Maria Ottobone. To this union seven children were born : Joseph, who is studying law in Washington, D. C. ; James,

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Theodore, Rose and Stella who are attending school in Spokane; and Loretta and Lenora. Mr. Albi has cast his vote with the republican party since he has been a naturalized citizen of this country, and he holds membership in the Roman Catholic church. He has never regretted his determination to come to America and because of his adaptation to the life of this country he has been remarkably successful, and has thoroughly established himself in the business circles of Spokane.

Algeron Sidney King

Algeron Sidney King, who holds the Spokane agency for the Otis Elevator Company and who is also extensively interested in mining propositions, was born in New York state, on the 3d of November, 1826, his parents being Earl Douglas and Mary (Bunnell) King, whose deaths occurred in 1870 and 1890 respectively. Of their children three survive: Algeron Sidne}', the subject of this review; and two brothers who are two and four years younger respectively. In the war of 1812 the father served as a drummer boy and was a musician in a regimental band in the Civil war.

Algeron S. King was a student at the Canandaigua Academy at Canandaigua, New York, until twelve years of age and subsequently attended the Brockport Collegiate Institute of Brockport, New York. ^Vlien .he had completed the courses offered in these institutions he started to learn the cabinet-maker's trade at seventeen years of age. He completed his training in this pursuit at Buffalo, New York, and later returned to Brockport, where he was actively engaged at his trade until he reached his twenty-fifth year. At that time he removed to Milford, Michigan, where he followed his trade for three years before going to Commerce, Michigan, and engaging in the foundry business for ten years. Subsequently he was located at Pontiac, Michigan, where he operated a foundry for twenty-three years. At that time he came to Spokane and in this city he was one of the active promoters of the iron industry. He was one of the founders of the Union Iron Works and for three years was prominently^ identified with that company. During the next three years lie had a short period of rest but later took up the pattern-making trade, which he followed a short period before becoming the Spokane agent for the Moline Elevator Company. Subsequently this company was taken over by the Otis Elevator Company and Mr. King has since acted as their agent. In addition to these business operations which he conducts at his office in the Paulsen building he is also interested in the United Copper Mining Company and the Surprise Mining Company, and he is one of the owners of the Ajax block of prospects near Murray, Idaho, and is a director of the Horn Silver Mining Company, which is located in the Okanogan country.

Mr. King was married to Miss Eliza Jones at Brockport, New York, in June, 1857. To their union three children were born, Fred B., Edward D. and Eliza, the last named passing away in 1907. Mrs. King's death occurred in 1863. In June, 1864', 'Sir. King was married at Commerce, Michigan, to Eliza Hungerford, and to their union one child was born, Mary, whose death occurred in 1892. Mrs. King died in 1876 and Mr. King was married in August, 1877. his third union being with Miss Elizabeth Shav, whose death occurred in 1896.

Mr. King gives his support to the republican party and he has been %'ery active in the political circles of the various cities in which he has resided. He served as alderman at Pontiac, j\Iichigan, for four years and was also a member of the school board for four years and president of the Chamber of Commerce for three years. He is a member of the blue lodge of the Masonic order. He is a most capable agent and the Otis Elevator Company value his services and consider him one of their prominent western employes. His courtesy and geniality win him many friends in business circles and are among his valuable assets in his various undertakings. His conscientious attention to his duties and his business ability have placed him in the foremost ranks among the active citizens who are interested in the commercial growth of Spokane.

J. Charles H. Reynolds

J. Charles H. Reynolds, right-of-way tax and claim agent for the Idaho & Washington Northern Railroad, has been a resident of Spirit Lake since the town was founded, during which time he has figured prominently in the development and organization of the municipal government. He was born in Knoxville, Illinois, on the 27th of May, 1866, being a son of John C. and Ellen (rfansford) Reynolds. The maternal grandfather. Dr. Hansford, was one of the early settlers of Fort Dearborn, now Chicago, Illinois, and one of its first judges.

Reared amid the environments of a good home, J. Charles H. Reynolds obtained his preliminary education in the common schools, subsequently pursuing a course in higher mathematics at Knox College. He became self-supporting at the age of sixteen years when he accepted a clerkship in a wholesale and retail paint, oil and glass store in Galesburg, Illinois. Four years later he resigned this position to become general material agent in the construction department of the Missouri Pacific Railroad Company, covering the territory from Chetopa, Kansas, to Pueblo, Colorado, for two years. In the summer of 1888 he became identified with the Winfield Mortgage & Trust Company of Winfield, Kansas, where he early gave evidence of being more capable than the average young men filling similar positions. His varied experience had made him resourceful, while the responsibility connected with his railroad position had developed his initiative and executive ability, so when the firm decided to open a western branch in Spokane, Washington, they selected Mr. Reynolds as the one best qualified for the management of their new office. He removed to Spokane in January, 1889, continuing with this firm and other mortgage companies until the summer of 1906, when he was employed by the Washington state railroad commission as an expert to appraise the rights-of-way of all of the railroads operating in the state. This was an entirely new department at that time, the state of Washington being one of the first to make a complete appraisement of the valuation of the property of the railroad companies. He retained this position until March, 1907, when he became right-of-way tax and claim agent for the Idaho & Washington Northern Railroad, with headquarters at Spirit Lake, and here he has ever since been located.

Mr. Reynolds was married at Spokane. Washington, on October 27, 1889, to Miss Eleanor Randall, a resident of that city, and they have become the parents of

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Both Mr. and Mrs. Reynolds are members of the Episcopal church, and he also belongs to the Masonic fraternity, being affiliated with Spirit Lake Lodge, No. 57, A. F. & A. M., of which he is worshipful master. His connection with orders of a more purely social nature is confined to his membership in the Inland and Athletic Clubs, both of Spokane. A man who never shirks his civic duties or responsibilities, upon his arrival here Mr. Reynolds quickly recognized and assumed his share of the obligations in organizing the municipality. He organized the first school board in the town and was a member of the same during the years 1908 and 1909, when he became chairman of the board of trustees of Spirit Lake, holding this office during 1909 and 1910. Capable and resourceful, his executive ability and powers of organization have made him a most valuable acquisition in the development of the town, in the interests of which he has worked tirelessly.

Charles F. Wikstrom

Charles F. Wikstrom, who is president and treasurer of the ]\IcKinley Mining Company, which he incorporated, and whose offices are in the Realty building, was born in Sweden, on the 9th of Julj', 1868, his parents being John M. and Anna (Ulrichson) Wikstrom, whose deaths occurred in 1881 and 1896 respectively. The father was a minister in his native country and stood very high in his profession.

Charles F. Wikstrom received his education in the public schools of his native country and after finishing his studies came to the United States, locating first at St. Croix Falls, Wisconsin, where he was in the employ of his uncle, who was a railroad contractor. He remained in that city for two years before removing to Cloquet, Minnesota, where he was engaged in the mercantile business for four years. Later he settled in Superior, Wisconsin, where he held a clerical position with a mercantile firm for four years before he started an independent store at Allouez, Wisconsin. He became one of the prominent citizens of that town and was its first postmaster. After remaining there seven years he came to Spokane, where he has since resided. His first employment in this city was with Greenough Brothers, whose assistant manager he subsequently became. Later he was associated with two produce houses as salesman and on the 26th of October, 1908, he incorporated the McKinley Mining Company. He has since been engaged in mining operations. He gained his first insight into the details of the mining business during the first few years of his residence in Spokane, during which time he dealt somewhat in mining, and because of the successful outcome of these ventures he decided to enter that pursuit permanently. He is now president and treasurer of the company, which is capitalized at one million dollars. Up to this time there has been a considerable amount of development work done on the property and they have drilled down four hundred and seventy feet. They have all the necessary equipment for modern mining operations and it will doubtlessly prove that this mine is one of the most valuable in the northwest. He is also interested in a coal mine at Lost Spring, Wyoming.

Mr. Wikstrom gives his political support to the republican party and in religious faith is affiliated with the Lutheran church. He holds membership in the Modern Woodmen of America, the United Order of Foresters and the Scandinavian Brotherhood of America. The western part of this country has given opportunity for success and advancement to many Scandinavians who have come here in search of the the opportunities which are seldom met with in their native country. They have brought with them the sterling traits of the Scandinavian race - thrift, industry, reliability and the capacity for hard work, all of which are among the necessary qualities for success. Among the citizens of Spokane who were born in Sweden Charles F. Wikstrom stands out prominently as one of the most progressive, energetic and successful.

Arthur G. Elston

Although Arthur G. Elston is now giving his undivided attention to the practice of general law in Spokane, he has seen active military service as a volunteer in the Spanish-American war and has been honored with positions of importance by the United States government, which he faithfully served. He is a young man to have accomplished so much, his birth having occurred in Waterloo, Canada, February 26, 1873. His father, Robert Elston, was bom in Cornwall, England, and was an attorney. Following his arrival in the new world he was employed by the city of Waterloo and served as prosecuting attorney there for a number of years before the birth of his son Arthur. Later he acted in an advisory' capacity for the city but died in 1879. His wife, who bore the maiden name of Margaret Brown, was born in Lachine, Canada, and is now living in Spokane. She is of Scotch English descent and is a cousin of the Hendersons, prominent ship builders of Nova Scotia. Mr. and Mrs. Robert Elston were parents of the following named : M^lliam R., an employe of the Inland Empire Railroad Company; John D., a baker of Minneapolis, Minnesota; and Jane, the wife of John Richardson, of Boissevain, Canada.

The fourth member of the family is Arthur G. Elston, who pursued his education in the city schools of Montreal to the age of eight years and afterward in the common schools of Milton, North Dakota, to which place his parents had removed. Subsequently he entered the University of North Dakota, and afterward attended Georgetown University in Washington, D. C, from which he was graduated with the LL. D. degree in 1906. For seven years he engaged in teaching school in North Dakota before he took his law degree and was also employed by the Deering Harvester Company as sales agent and collector. But all business and personal interests were put aside when his country became involved in war. His patriotic spirit was aroused by the attitude of Spain in relation to the United States and following the declaration of war he enlisted on the 18th of April, 1898, in Company C of the North Dakota Volunteers. He went to the Philippines and was discharged September 30, 1899, when he was mustered out with his regiment. He saw much active service and was credited with thirty-six skirmishes and engagements. He was very fortunate in that he was never wounded, receiving not even a scratch. WTiile in the Philippines the headquarters of the regi- ment were at Manila. Mr. Elston took part in the Santa Cruz expedition, in the Laguna Bay expedition, in the Morong campaign and in the San Fernando expedition, all under the personal supervision of General Lawton, and his company was badly cut up at the battle of Paete. Following his return from the Philippines he was quartermaster sergeant in the National Guard of North Dakota but resigned in 1905.

On his return to Grafton, North Dakota, Mr. Elston entered the employ of the government as law clerk in the department of the interior and finally reached the position of assistant chief of the division of lands in the Indian office. In 1908 he was appointed special agent of the general land office and served for one year, after wliich he was appointed assistant superintendent in the opening of Indian reservations. He assisted in the opening of the Coeur d'Alene, Flathead and Spokane reservations but resigned his position in the government service on the 23d of August, 1908, to enter upon the practice of law in Spokane. He has always been alone in his profession, continuing in general practice and also doing considerable corporation work. He is likewise interested in a mining company in the Coeur d'Alene district and is engaged in developing the properties.

On the 17th of June, 1903, in Fargo, North Dakota, Mr. Elston was married to j\Iiss Elizabeth Eaton, a daughter of Mary Eaton, of Stillwater, Minnesota, whose father was a Civil war veteran of English descent. They have become parents of three children: Vernon, Helene and Vivian. Mr. Elston's fraternal relations have brought him a wide and favorable acquaintance. He is a Mason, belonging to Spokane Lodge, No. 34. He also holds membership with the Independent Order of Foresters, the United Commercial Travelers and the Spanish- American War Veterans. His political allegiance is given to the republican party and he has served as a delegate to county and state conventions both in North Dakota and in Washington. His position is never an equivocal one. He stands firmly in support of whatever he believes to be right and his course is characterized by devotion to duty when in office and by loyalty to the interests of his clients in the practice of law.

H. J. Farney, who is engaged in the contracting business, with offices on East Montgomery avenue, was born in Cheboygan, Michigan, on the 22d of April, 1882, a son of Dennis and Anna (Murtaugh) Farney, the latter of whom died in 1906.

H. J. Farney received his early education in the public schools of Cheybogan, Michigan, and at the age of fifteen _vears started to earn his own livelihood at Ashland, Wisconsin, accepting employment with a bridge construction firm at that place. He was there for one j'ear before he came west, locating first in Portland, Oregon, where he worked for two years before going to Salt Lake City, Utah, and remaining there five months while he was employed on the big cut-off. After this work was finished he traveled through the Pacific west and accepted emjiloyment in v.nrious places until 1907, when he located permanently in Spokane, where he has since followed contracting and building. That he has been most successful in his undertakings is attested by the successful construction work whicli is fo\ind on the

Realty building, the Pacific Telephone building, the bridge at Pullman, Washington, and one of the buildings of Gonzaga College. He also put in the steel work on the Spokane Bridge, which is three hundred and sixty-six feet long, the center span being two hundred and sixteen feet and the two end ones seventy-five each. He belongs to that large and representative class of American citizens who started in at an early age and learned a trade by experience, working hard and availing themselves of every opportunitj- that presented itself, to study and gain advancement. His record shows what may be accomplished when energy, effort, persistency and perseverance are intelligently directed.

On the 17th of November, 1909, ^Ir. Farney was married to Miss Nellie Donahue, a daughter of James and Mary (Ryan) Donahue. To their union one child, Oliver, has been born. In politics Mr. Farney retains an independent attitude, preferring to cast his vote for the man or principle rather than according to party dictates. His fraternal associations are with the Knights of Columbus. In whatever he undertakes he is actuated thereto by an earnest desire to promote the welfare of others as well as that of himself, and his influence is always found on the side of right and justice.

Wilson S. Swain

Wilson S. Swain, who is president and manager of the Swain Detective Agency whose offices are located in the Empire State building, was born in Princeton, Illinois, on the 31st of March, 1856, his parents being William T. and Martha E. (Simmons) Swain. The father was a member of the Twelfth Illinois Regiment in the Civil war and was killed in the battle of Shiloh. The mother's death occurred in 1906. Mr. Swain acquired his education in the Illinois Soldiers' College with which he was connected until eighteen years of age. At that time he entered the employ of the government at Chicago as a register clerk in the postoffice department, and for three years he ably filled that position. Subsequently he removed to Central City, Colorado, and for ten years was engaged in mining interests, the last three of which he was also collector of internal revenue. He resigned that position to become captain of police and chief of detectives in Denver. For two years he was thus engaged before entering the Thiel detective service witli which lie was connected for twenty- four years. During this time he did detective service in all parts of the United States and became well known for his fearlessness and daring in detecting criminals and placing them in the hands of the law. In 1899 he came to Spokane as representative of the Thiel Detective Agency and served in that capacity until two years ago when he formed the Swain Detective Agency of which he is the owner and which is frequenth' employed when such service is required in this city. In addition to his vocation he is also interested in mining properties this section of the country and is the owner of considerable valuable agricultural land.

In June, 1876. Mr. Swain was married to Miss Alice Dunn, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William F. Dunn, of Princeton, Illinois. To them two children have been born: Ethel, who is married to Arthur Linville, of Oakesdale, Washington; and Clara L., who is a stenographer and cashier for the Swain Detective Agency.

Spokane And The Inland Empire 695

Mr. Swain gives his political allegiance to the republican party, and holds membership in the Inland Club and the Spokane Amateur Athletic Club. Fraternally he is a Mason, a member of the Knights of Pythias, belonging to the Red Cross Lodge of Spokane, and of the Independent Order of Oddfellows. Since he has taken uj] his residence in this city he has made manj' friends and has won many stanch admirers among those with whom he comes in contact in both business and social relations.

Fred P. Johnson

Fred P. Johnson, who is paying teller of the Scandinavian American Bank, was born in Bismark, North Dakota, on tlie 1st of January, 1884', his parents being Peter P. and Matilda (Beck) Johnson, both of whom are now residing in Spokane.

In his native city Fred P. Johnson received his education in the public schools and subsequently was a student in the high school for two years. At the age of fourteen, however, he began earning his own livelihood and started to work for his fatlier in railroad construction work, serving in the capacity of timekeeper. He remained thus employed from 1899 until 1907, covering the territories of Washington, Oregon and Idaho. During this time his headquarters were located in Spokane and in 1900 he pursued a course of study in the Spokane Business College. After severing his connections with the railroad he sailed for Europe and spent some time in traveling on the continent. Returning again to Spokane, he secured a position in the Scandinavian American Bank as savings teller and during the year of 1908 worked his way upward to that of paying teller, a position which lie now holds. He has shown marked financial ability and because of his industry, liis integrity and his mathematical accuracy he is proving a valued employe and stands high in the confidence and regard of the officials of the bank.

In politics Mr. Johnson is a republican and in religious faith holds membership in the Swedish Lutheran church. He is also a member of the Scandinavian Brotherhood of America and of the American Institute of Banking. He is making a careful study of the principles of banking and his keen interest in that subject led him to compete for a prize which was offered by the Washington Bankers Association for the best essay on the question of The Central Bank as a Factor in a Financial Crisis. His able discussion of the subject won him the first prize and also promoted his standing in banking circles. Mr. Johnson is unmarried and makes his home with his parents at 01325 Lincoln street.

Smith Ely

Smith Ely. a representative of real-estate interests, in which connection he has developed an extensive business, was born in Carrollton, Carroll county, Missouri, on the 11th of August, 18.50. He is a son of L. B. Smith and !Martha (Herndon) Ely, whose deaths occurred in 1897 and 1861 respectively. The fatlier was a prominent citizen in ^Missouri and was connected with the William Jewell Baptist College of ^lissouri.

Mr. Ely acquired his education at Williamson College, Liberty, Missouri, which he attended four j^ears. Immediately upon having finished this course he engaged in the mercantile business at CarroUton until 1880. Subsequently he was similarly identified at Rich Hill, Missouri, until 1886 and for a few years following was engaged in the wholesale shoe business in St. Louis. In 1890, however, he disposed of this business and removed to Spokane, where he has since been engaged in the real-estate and loan business. He is well known as a most correct valuator of property and as a promoter of real-estate operations which have proven important and valuable factors in the city's growth.

On the 19th of November, 187 J-, Mr. Ely was married in St. Louis to Miss Josephine Gillispie, a daughter of David and Mary (Tyree) Gillispie. To this union three children have been born: Smith Jr., who is associated in business with his father; and Martha and Gillispie, both of whom are deceased. Politically Mr. Ely is a democrat, and in religious faith a Baptist, holding membership in the Grace Baptist church. He has been a member of the Baptist Mission Board of North Idaho and East M'^ashington for twenty-one years, and for twenty years has ably served as its president.

Oscar Raymond Holcomb

A worth}' representative of the legal profession of Ritzville, who has been more or less prominently identified with public life ever since he located here in 1896, is Oscar Raymond Holcomb, for the past three years judge of the superior court. He is a native of Indiana, his birth occurring in Gibson county on the 31st of December, 1867, and a son of Silas Mercer and ]\Iary Ann (Hopkins) Holcomb, both members of Indiana pioneer families. The father went to the front as an officer of the Sixty-third Indiana Volunteer Infantry during the rebellion. He had the misfortune to be wounded at both the second battle of Bull Run and Antietam and was subsequently discharged because of his injuries. When entirely recovered he resumed the duties of civil life as a member of the bar, engaging in the practice of law in Indiana until his death on the 6th of June, 1906.

Reared at home, Oscar Raymond Holcomb obtained his early education in the public schools and subsequently attended the Southwestern Indiana Normal School. Having decided to adopt his father's profession for his life vocation he then matriculated in the Chicago College of Law in that city, being awarded the degree of LL. B. in 1892. After his admission to the Indiana bar he located at Evansville, that state, and established an office that he maintained until February, 1894. Believing that the west afforded better opportunities and greater advantages for enterprising and ambitious professional men, in the latter year he came to Ritzville and opened an office. He was quickly recognized as a man of unusual ability and soon had built up a good clientage, that steadily increased during the period of his private practice. In 1 895 he was elected prosecuting attorney and at the expiration of his term two years later was reelected, but he resigned this office in 1898, in order to assume the duties of commissioner of arid lands for the state of Washington, to which he had been appointed by Governor J. R. Rogers. He served in this capacity until 1899, when be again turned his entire attention to his private practice. This engaged the greater part of his time until November, 1908, when he undertook the responsibile duties of judge of the superior eourt for Adams, Franklin and Benton counties, which he has discharged with rare efficiency. Judge Holcomb is unusually well qualified for the office he is now so capably filling, not only because of his thorough knowledge and understanding of all legal technicalities but largely owing to his keen perceptions, fine appreciation of the fundamental principles governing human actions and his rare sense of justice. His decisions are alwaj's characterized by a conservative yet logical and deliberate estimate of the law and the evidence, while in criminal cases the punishment stipulated is invariably justified and fully commensurate with the oflfense. Since he has been on the bench he has tried a large number of criminal as well as important civil cases, among the former being included eight murder cases.

On the 12th of June, 1894, Judge Holcomb was united in marriage to Miss Eva Staser, a daughter of Clinton Staser, at that time a resident of Indiana, where he liad extensive realty holdings, but now living in Kennewick, Washington. Six children have been born to Judge and Mrs. Holcomb, Raymond, Maurice, Marjorie, Leland, Gladys and Maxine.

Judge Holcomb is a prominent member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, having passed through all of the chairs of the local lodge. He is also a member of the orders of Knights of Pythias, and Modem Woodmen of America. His political support he gives to the democratic party in general, but votes very independently, and has always taken an active interest in municipal affairs. For six terms he represented his ward in the citj'^ council and in 1905 he was elected mayor but resigned from this office three years later in order to enter upon his judicial duties. Before going upon the bench he was extensively interested in various banking and business enterprises in Ritzville, the success of many of which can be attributed to his foresight and sagacity. During the long period of his residence here Judge Holcomb has been connected with practically every movement of any significance inaugurated for the development of the public utilities or to advance the community welfare, and yet he has always so conducted his efforts as to escape the aspersions that usually fall to the lot of men in prominent positions. His transactions have always been above question both in public and private life, and he is one of the highly esteemed and respected men not only of Ritzville but of tht county.

Benjamin R. Ostrander

Prominent among the men in business life in Spokane who have worked their way by the strength of personal merit and ability from stations of comparative obscurity to positions of note is Benjamin R. Ostrander. who is connected with the real-estate and loan business in Spokane. Mr. Ostrander has been interested in various mercantile and industrial concerns and with practically no means at the start has establshied himself in a business which requires both ability and capital for its successful management. His birth occurred in Ashtabula county, Ohio, on the 27th of November, 1843, his parents being B. R. and Hanna (Hebbard) Ostrander, both of whom are deceased, .the mother having passed away in 1908.

Benjamin R. Ostrander's early education was received in the public schools of Illinois. Leaving school at the age of eighteen years he entered X^ompany H, Eighty-third Illinois Volunteers and served in the Civil war. At the time of his discharge he was an orderly sergeant. After his military duties were over he attended Lombard University at Galesburg, Illinois, for one year, and subsequently returned to Roseville, Illinois, where he accepted a position remaining for four years before becoming a partner in a mercantile business. He was interested in this concern for eleven years, and during that time gave it the greater part of his time and attention and his careful supervision. Subsequently he removed to Colorado Springs, where for two years he was interested in the lumber business before going to Whitman county, Washington, in June, 1883, where, until 189Ji, he farmed and engaged in stock-raising. In agricultural pursuits he met with a good measure of success which was due to a large degree to his industry and careful study of the details of his undertakings. In ISQl he came to Spokane and since that time has been actively engaged in the real-estate business. He enjoys a large patronage, and because of his unwearying eiforts and constant attention to business he has built up an enterprise which reflects great credit upon its originator.

On the 17th of November, 1870, Mr. Ostrander was married to Miss Olive Hoisington, a daughter of John and Josephine (Parks) Hoisington, of Warren county, Illinois. To them two children have been born. Max, who died in infancy, and D wight, who married Miss Bertha Cadwell. In politics Mr. Ostrander is a republican and has been an active party member. He was a member of the first state legislature at Washington and served on the city council of Spokane for one term. In both these offices he fulfilled the duties which fell to his lot with efficiency and to the satisfaction of those who had placed their trust in him. He is a member of the Sedgwick Post of the G. A. R., and also holds membership in the Plymouth Congregational church. In business relations he holds to high ideals, socially he has won the respect and regard of his friends and acquaintances, and the efficiency of his work is bringing him a gratifying and constantly increasing patronage.

Charles M. Delameter

The dream of an inland empire is fast becoming a reality through the efforts of men of progressive spirit and unfaltering courage and determination such as Charles M. Delameter. He was born in Potsdam, New York, October 25, 1870, one of a family of six children whose parents were James M. and Imogene (Shaw) Delameter. They, too, were natives of Potsdam and the mother is descended from ancestry represented in America prior to the Revolutionary war in which several members of her family took part. The genealogical line is traced back to France, where the name was originally spelled de Le Maitre. They were among the early French Huguenot families who left that countrj' for England, removing later to New York. James M. Delameter was a farmer and at the time of the Civil war responded to the country's call for troops, and became a first sergeant in the Seventyfirst New York Regiment of Volunteers. His death occurred in 1883, while his wife died in 1888. All of their five surviving children have settled in the northwest.