Indiana
Biography of J. P. O. Lownsdale
J.P.O. Lownsdale, born January 1, 1830, in Indiana, was a notable businessman in the Pacific Northwest, particularly in real estate. He moved to Portland in 1851 and later became involved in various public offices, including the city council and county commissioner. After his father’s death, he became the estate administrator, successfully resolving all matters. Lownsdale’s integrity and commitment to public service earned him respect in the community. He remains active in real estate and is supported by his wife and four successful children.
Biography of Pierce A. Mahaffey
Pierce A. Mahaffey, born on January 25, 1841, in Indiana, moved to Iowa before crossing the plains to Oregon in 1862. After a period of farming, he settled in La Grande and purchased the Blue Mountain House, renowned for its hospitality. He served as a justice of the peace and city councilman, actively contributing to local improvements. Mahaffey invested heavily in land and was married to Lou McWaters, with whom he had two children. He passed away on February 14, 1888, and is remembered for his community involvement and devotion to family.
Biography of Matthew Patton
Matthew Patton, born on November 15, 1805, in Virginia, was a prominent pioneer who moved to Ohio and then established a cabinet business in Indiana. After various ventures, including a challenging flatboat journey to New Orleans, he founded Pattonsburg, Missouri. In search of Oregon’s resources, he made a difficult journey with his family, ultimately settling in Chehalem Valley. Patton later ventured into gold mining, returning with significant earnings. Now living in Albina at 83, he is respected for his integrity, generosity, and temperate lifestyle.
Biographical Sketch of Jacob Long
Jacob Long, born in Pennsylvania in 1815, was a prominent pioneer in Indian Valley, Oregon. After moving westward with his family to Ohio and later Indiana, he developed skills as a blacksmith and spent years hunting and trapping. In 1864, he settled in Oregon, becoming the first settler in northern Indian Valley. His adventures in the wilderness, marked by encounters with various wildlife, contributed to his family’s comfort through the sale of pelts. Long’s legacy continues through his thriving family of nine children.
Biography of Daniel H. Lownsdale
Daniel H. Lownsdale, born on April 8, 1803, in Kentucky, was a prominent pioneer and businessman in early Oregon. After losing his first wife, he ventured to Europe for health reasons before settling in Portland in 1845. Recognizing its potential, he purchased prime land for Portland in 1848. Lownsdale played a significant role in the city’s development, contributed to public service, and served in the Indian wars. He passed away on May 4, 1862, and was laid to rest in Lone Fir Cemetery, Portland.
Biographical Sketch of John and William Rynearson
John and William Rynearson, born in Pennsylvania, grew up on a farm before moving to Indiana in 1848, where they learned blacksmithing while farming. In 1865, they relocated to Oregon, settling in Grande Ronde valley, where they thrived in farming and stock-raising. They expanded their landholdings and enjoyed prosperity. William participated in the Bannock War, experiencing significant danger. In 1880, he married Ella Tall, and both brothers were noted for their hunting success in the Blue Mountains.
Biographical Sketch of A. W. Rynearson
A. W. Rynearson, born in Pennsylvania in 1830, moved to Oregon in 1852, settling first in Butteville before establishing himself near La Grande in the Grande Ronde Valley. A prominent fruit-grower, he developed a well-cultivated farm with 800 trees and successful hop cultivation. Married in 1868 to Mollie M. Sharp, he has three daughters and holds a position as clerk in the Oro Dell School District. Rynearson also contributed to restoring order during the Union troubles in 1856.
Biography of George Benson Kuykendall, M.D.
George Benson Kuykendall, M.D., born in Indiana in 1843, overcame significant hardships during his family’s migration to the Pacific. They faced cholera and personal losses before settling in Oregon. Kuykendall developed a passion for reading and medicine, ultimately graduating at the top of his medical class. He served as a government physician at Fort Simcoe, gaining recognition for his research and skills. In 1882, he established his practice in Pomeroy, Washington, where he became a respected physician and advocate for education. He married E.J. Butler and has eight children.
Biography of General Joseph Lane
Joseph Lane, born in North Carolina on December 14, 1801, grew up in Kentucky and later farmed in Indiana. His political career began in the state legislature, and he served as a colonel during the Mexican War, where he earned fame for his bravery in battle. After the war, he became the first governor of the Oregon Territory and later served as a U.S. Senator. Lane spent his later years farming and studying, passing away in April 1881, remembered for his integrity and dedication to public service.
Biography of Gen. John E. Ross
General John E. Ross, born in Ohio in 1818, played a vital role in early Oregon history as an Indian fighter and legislator. After arriving in Oregon in 1847, he became involved in the Cayuse War and later pursued gold in California. An experienced military commander, he led troops during conflicts, including the Rogue River War and the Modoc War. Ross’s contributions extended to politics as a legislator and organizer of the Oregon California Railroad Company. His legacy remains influential despite health issues in his later years.