Alder Slope Oregon

Alder Slope, Oregon refers to a historic rural locality in Wallowa County, Oregon on the lower slopes of the Wallowa Mountains near the towns of Enterprise and Joseph, identified in local records and maps rather than as an incorporated municipality; it was settled in the early 1870s by Euro-American pioneers establishing homesteads in the upper Wallowa Valley following the opening of the region after Indigenous displacement and county formation (1887) and had a United States post office established on April 5, 1878 with Henry Beecher as its first postmaster—a key date for genealogical reference. The area includes the Alder Slope Cemetery, with graves dating to the late 19th century that are used in family history research and documented in county cemetery listings, and is part of the broader agricultural Alder Slope farming region described in early county histories. For genealogists, vital records, land claims, and census entries for families in Alder Slope are found in Wallowa County archives from the 1870s onward; prior to Euro-American settlement the broader Wallowa region was traditional homelands of Indigenous peoples such as the Nez Perce (Nimiipuu) before their forced removal in the late 1870s.

Wallowa County Oregon Burial Index – Surnames A – Z

The Wallowa County Oregon Burial Index provides a comprehensive alphabetical listing of surnames from A to Z, detailing burial locations predominantly in areas such as Enterprise, Prairie Creek, and Wallowa. Each entry specifies the names associated with particular cemeteries, reflecting the region’s rich historical tapestry through its deceased residents. Surnames range from common names like Smith and Johnson to unique variations, illustrating the diverse ancestry present in the county. This index serves as a valuable resource for genealogical research and historical inquiries.

Danielson, Gustave Adolph – Obituary

Gustave Adolph Danielson, 79, of Utica, Michigan, passed away in Enterprise, Oregon on August 21, 1972, after a brief illness. Born in Sweden on January 24, 1893, he served in World War I and later retired from Chrysler Motor Company. A lifelong member of Lodge No. 4 AF AM in Rochester, he is survived by two sons, a daughter, and eight grandchildren. His wife Olive predeceased him in 1968. Funeral services will be held in Rochester, with burial in Birmingham, Michigan.

Fisher, James E. – Obituary

James Edward Fisher, aged 69, passed away unexpectedly at home near Enterprise on March 9, 1959. Born on October 13, 1889, in Cove, he had been a lifelong Oregon resident and farmer. He married Vera Draper in 1913, who survives him along with two sons, three daughters, four sisters, two brothers, nine grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren. Funeral services were held at the Bollman Funeral Chapel, with burial at Enterprise cemetery. Fisher’s legacy is remembered by his family and community.

Fisher, James W. – Obituary

James Wolvert Fisher, age 74, passed away on December 18, 1994, in Spokane, Washington. Born on June 21, 1920, in Vale, Oregon, he graduated from Wallowa High School in 1939 and worked with his father before serving in WWII. He married Margaret Ruth Reece in 1945, who preceded him in death. Fisher had a 32-year career with the Oregon State Highway Department and enjoyed the outdoors and woodworking. He is survived by his children, grandchildren, and a brother. Services will be held on December 22.

Fisher, Erma – Obituary

Graveside services for Erma Fisher, 72, will be held on January 17 at Milton-Freewater Cemetery, following her death on January 14 at Walla Walla General Hospital. Born in Wallowa County on December 14, 1907, she married Ira Fisher in 1926 and lived in various locations before settling in Umapine in 1946. A member of the First Christian Church, she is survived by her husband, daughters Marlene Wright and Virginia Smith, siblings, and numerous grandchildren. Memorials can be made to the Oregon Heart Association.

Hammack, N. E. Mrs. – Obituary

Mrs. N. E. Hammack passed away on October 1, 1923, at her home in Alder Slope, Oregon, after a 15-day illness following a stroke. Born on August 6, 1856, in Morrow County, Kentucky, she married a Baptist minister in 1902 and moved to Wallowa County. She is survived by her husband and brother, Jordan Crawford of Idaho. Mrs. Hammack was known for her pioneering skills, particularly weaving, and her hospitable and industrious nature. Funeral services were held at Enterprise Cemetery.

Hammack, N. E. Rev. – Obituary

Rev. N. E. Hammack, born August 1, 1850, in Laural County, Kentucky, passed away on July 31, 1929, at his home in Alder Slope, Oregon, aged 79. He was married three times and fathered six children, with three surviving. An ordained minister of the United Baptist Church since 1876, he was dedicated to preaching and biblical study. Hammack was known for gathering his family to celebrate his birthday with a sermon, leaving a legacy cherished by friends and family alike.

Hammack, Oscar – Obituary

Oscar Hammack, a prominent farmer in Wallowa County, passed away on August 29, 1967, at Wallowa Memorial Hospital after ten days of illness. He and his wife had recently retired to Enterprise. Born on July 18, 1895, in London, Kentucky, he moved to Wallowa County in 1903. He is survived by his wife, Carrie, a daughter, two sons, a brother, five grandchildren, and one great-grandchild. Funeral services will be held at the Enterprise Community Church, with internment at Enterprise Cemetery.

Carter, Annabel – Obituary

Annabel Fulton Carter, known affectionately as Grandma Carter, passed away on June 26, 1920, after a long battle with illness at the age of 64. Born in Ohio, she moved to Missouri as a child and later married James R. Carter. The couple resided in Wallowa County for many years, eventually settling in Enterprise. A dedicated member of the Baptist church, her contributions left a lasting impact. She is survived by her husband and four daughters. Her funeral took place on June 28, with interment in Enterprise Cemetery.

Cussins, George Oscar – Obituary

George Oscar (Dock) Cussins, a long-time resident of Wallowa County, passed away on June 19, 1940, at the age of 69 due to a heart ailment following bronchial pneumonia. Born in Beatrice, Nebraska, in September 1870, he moved to Wallowa at 17, engaging in sheep herding before establishing a ranch in Lower Leap with his brother-in-law. Cussins is survived by two sisters and four brothers. His graveside service was held at Wallowa Cemetery, officiated by Rev. E. E. Callahan.

Richards, Harry Mrs. – Obituary

Mrs. Harry Richards, formerly Minnie Hayes, passed away on December 6, 1918, just one week after her husband’s death. Succumbing to influenza, she fought valiantly but could not withstand the toll of grief and illness. She leaves behind two young sons, Raymond and Melvn, along with her parents and siblings from the Alder Slope area. Born on December 6, 1889, she married Harry Richards in 1908. Her funeral was held at the Alder Slope cemetery, officiated by Rev. Cook of Joseph.

Richards, Harry – Obituary

Harry Richards, aged 28, succumbed to Spanish Influenza at his home in Alder Slope, Wallowa County, Oregon, on November 29, 1918. His burial took place at Alder Slope cemetery the following day. Richards is survived by his wife, two children, his parents, and four brothers, two of whom are currently serving in the Army in France. This announcement was reported in the Wallowa County Reporter on December 5, 1918.

McCormack, William – Obituary

William McCormack, the first permanent settler in Wallowa Valley, Oregon, passed away suddenly at the age of 70. He died in his home on Alder Slope following a suspected strain from working on his farm. McCormack had been a pivotal figure in the valley since 1872, when he constructed the area’s initial log cabin. His funeral, attended by many local pioneers, was held at the Friends church, and he was interred near his original homestead. He is survived by his wife and four children.

Ridgley, Josephine – Obituary

Josephine (Reichmuth) Ridgley was born on May 14, 1888, in Switzerland and immigrated to Tacoma, Washington, in the early 1900s. She married Charles Franklin Jaensch Sr. in 1909, with whom she had two sons. After their divorce, she worked at the Heathman Hotel and later married Mr. Ridgley. Following his death, she moved to an assisted living home and passed away in February 1984. Josephine is survived by her son, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and other relatives, and is interred at Rose Lawn Cemetery in Portland.

Hammack, W. J. – Obituary

W.J. Hammack tragically lost his life early this morning when a log truck tipped over on him on South Fork road near Lostine. He was making his final delivery of the night when the accident occurred. Although efforts were made to aid him after the truck overturned, he was unable to escape and may have suffocated from gasoline fumes. Hammack, a long-time resident of the valley and a skilled farmer and sawmill operator, is survived by his widow and three sons.

Blokland, Emma L. Mrs. – Obituary

Mrs. Emma L. Van Blokland, a pioneer of Wallowa County, Oregon, passed away on January 13, 1964, at the age of 89. Born in LaPlata, Missouri, she journeyed west by wagon train with her family and homesteaded on Alder Slope. A long-time Island City resident and member of the First Methodist Church, she is survived by three sons, four grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, and a brother. Memorial services were held on January 16, 1964, in La Grande, with burial in Island City cemetery.

Ownbey, Margaret – Obituary

Margaret Ann Ownbey, born May 23, 1865, in Union County, Oregon, passed away on April 4, 1949, in Enterprise. She married William R. Ownbey in 1883, bearing nine children, six of whom survive her. The family resided on a farm on Alder Slope until Mr. Ownbey’s death, after which she lived with her daughter. Services will be held at Booth Chapel, officiated by Rev. Howard Stover. Survivors include her children and two sisters.

Emmons, L. B. Mrs. – Obituary

Mrs. Iva M. Emmons, age 21, passed away on November 18, 1900, due to consumption, leaving behind her husband, Leonard B. Emmons, and three young sons. Born on November 13, 1879, in Alder, Oregon, she married Leonard five years prior. Her death came as a shock to her family and friends, despite previous warnings from physicians about her health. Funeral services, led by Rev. S.S. Lewis, were held at her home, attended by many mourners. She is remembered with hope for reunion in a peaceful afterlife.

Emmons, John W.- Obituary

John W. Emmons, a Civil War veteran, passed away on January 2, 1933, at his grandson’s home. Born on March 29, 1843, he married Martha E. Day in 1865 and moved to Illinois, then Nebraska, before settling in the Grande Rhonde Valley in 1885. Emmons engaged in ranching, particularly sheep, and lived in various locations before retiring. He was known for his integrity and friendliness. He is survived by seven children. His wife predeceased him in 1909.

Emmons, Earl Mrs.- Obituary

Mrs. Earl Emmons, born Else Ruth Neal on January 3, 1901, in Missouri, passed away at her home on March 19 after a lengthy illness. She moved to Oregon at the age of three and resided near Enterprise since 1914. She married Earl Emmons in 1918 and had three daughters. Survived by her family, she was remembered in a packed funeral service at the local Baptist church, led by Rev. Ernest Losey, with music provided by community members. Interment took place at the Enterprise Cemetery.