For years, W. R. Privett has been connected with various institutions of learning, until the profession of a teacher, than which there is no higher or nobler, has became second nature to him, slid none in the ranks of that profession stand higher or more universally command the respect and esteem of the general public, than does the subject of this sketch. Born in Missouri in 1847, he came to Oregon in 1852, with his parents, who died enroute. He made his home with an uncle, on a farm near Scio, and received his preliminary education in the public schools. He began teaching in Linn County at the age of 16, following it until 21, when he entered the Agricultural College at Corvallis, graduating in 1871. He at once began teaching in the public schools of Corvallis, and later in those of Linn and Marion counties until 1888. Moving to Baker county, he taught there until 1893, when he was elected school superintendent on the Democratic ticket. He married Miss Mary Shelton, of Linn County, in 1876, and has four children. His record as a teacher and a man and citizen is without it blemish, and his friends and admirers are legion.
