JAY A. KELLOGG. – This gentleman is a native of Illinois, where he was born in Boone county, February 21, 1851. He is a son of Eli D. Kellogg. His mother’s maiden name was Margaret J. Passage. When he was eight years old, the family crossed the plains to California and settled at Weaverville in that state. He there received the rudiments of his education at the public school, and continued his studies at St. Joseph College in Humboldt county.
After a residence of ten years in Weaverville, Mr. Kellogg engaged in the lumber business in Humboldt county. In the general depression of 1879 in that line of business, he disposed of his interest, and in March of that year came to Washington Territory, selecting the thriving town of Dayton as his future home. He was there engaged in mercantile business for two years. Converting his business again into cash, he was occupied in various pursuits until his election as auditor of Columbia county in November, 1884. The ability with which he discharged the duties of that position caused him to be re-elected in 1886. He has also been a member of the common council.
Having full confidence in the future of his adopted home, his investments from time to tome have been in real estate. The rapid increase in population of the Inland Empire at large and Dayton in particular proves that his judgment was sound. The property he purchased for moderate prices is now very valuable. Mr. Kellogg is not only considered on of the substantial citizens of Dayton, but also one if its most active in all enterprises looking towards the advancement of its natural welfare.
In 1882 he was united in marriage at Dayton with Miss Sina M. Coleson, also a native of the same county and state as her husband. Surrounded as he is by a pleasant and happy home, it is no wonder that the portrait found of him in this work looks so free from care.