Clackamas County OR

Biographical Sketch of Dr. Archie Leonard Offield

Dr. Archie Leonard Offield, a prominent physician in Burlingame, left a successful practice in San Francisco nine years ago, believing in the town’s potential. He has significantly contributed to the community’s health as a member of the Burlingame Board of Health, enhancing its sanitary conditions. Offield established a large practice in the area and invested in a business building on Burlingame Avenue, reflecting his commitment to the town’s future. Born on June 3, 1877, in Oregon City, he has been a California resident for 27 years.

Biography of Heman J. Gerr

Heman J. Geer, born in Ohio in 1828, migrated to Oregon in 1847 with General Palmer’s train. Initially engaging in the boot and shoe business in Oregon City, he later settled in the Waldo Hills, where he established a fruit farm and married Annie E. Duncan. A member of the Oregon Rangers, Geer played a key role in protecting settlers’ property. Known for his public service, he owned fertile land with an orchard and hop ranch, exhibiting remarkable vitality as he approached his eighties.

Biography of Rev. Josiah Lamberson Parrish

Rev. Josiah Lamberson Parrish, born on October 14, 1806, in New York, was a key figure in Oregon’s early missionary efforts. After working as a blacksmith and saddle-maker, he devoted himself to preaching in 1835 and became blacksmith for the Methodist Mission in Oregon in 1839. He served as an Indian agent from 1849 and was instrumental in establishing reservations. Retiring in 1856, he continued his ministry, notably as chaplain of the Oregon Penitentiary. Parrish, now an octogenarian, resides in Salem, Oregon, noted for his integrity and vast knowledge of early Oregon history.

Biography of George E. Wells

George E. Wells, born on November 3, 1850, in Licking County, Ohio, demonstrated remarkable adaptability throughout his diverse career in the western U.S. After engaging in various occupations, including teaching, teamster, and hotelier, he settled into farming on his 240-acre property near Alicel. Married to Minnie Buchanan, they had two children. Known for his integrity, he has served as a school director and held leadership roles in local fraternal organizations, reflecting his commitment to community service and development.

Biography of William Morfitt

William Morfitt, born in Yorkshire in 1838, was a pioneering figure in Oregon’s development. His family immigrated to the U.S. in 1842, and after various experiences, including fighting in the Yakima war, he became a civil engineer. He contributed significantly to the establishment of Ontario, Oregon, and built the first bridge across the Boise River. A model farmer, he was active in local politics and education. Morfitt had two marriages and fathered eight children, leaving a lasting legacy in Malheur County.

Biography of Robert W. Worsham

Robert W. Worsham, born on April 30, 1839, in Kentucky, was a pioneering figure in Malheur County, Oregon. He journeyed west with his family in 1852, facing challenges including illness and food scarcity. A career in mining took him to various regions, where he encountered both opportunities and hostilities. In 1861, he married Lucy E. Wingfield and eventually transitioned to farming and stock-raising in Malheur. Worsham contributed to local development and served as a government scout during Indian conflicts, raising a family and supporting his community’s Methodist church.

Biography of Robert M. Divin

Robert M. Divin, born on December 17, 1831, in Lincoln County, Tennessee, became a notable figure in Malheur County. Orphaned at a young age, he grew up in Arkansas before moving to Texas, where he faced considerable hardships amidst Comanche threats. After a brief return to Arkansas, he settled in Oregon in 1870, engaging in successful cattle and farming operations. Divin later moved to Vale, where he now resides. He and his wife had ten children, although only two survive. He is a community-minded individual and a member of the Masonic fraternity.

Biographical Sketch of George W. Cawlfield

George W. Cawlfield, born on October 21, 1870, in Kansas, is a notable figure in Harney County’s stock business. The son of David A. and Abigil Cawlfield, he moved with his family to Colorado and later to Oregon, where they engaged in cattle raising. George married Hattie Bunyard in 1897 and has two daughters. He established a homestead north of the Narrows and has built a successful partnership with his father in cattle raising, overcoming modest beginnings to achieve prosperity through hard work and sound management.

Biographical Sketch of Nathan Brown

Nathan Brown, born in Germany in 1835, immigrated to the United States at thirteen. After various business ventures, including general merchandising in Walla Walla and clothing sales in San Francisco, he settled in Burns in 1884, partnering with his sons, Benjamin and Leon. Their firm, N. Brown & Sons, grew from modest beginnings to become a leading general merchant in the area, renowned for their extensive stock and strong community ties. Brown is respected for his integrity and successful business acumen.

Biography of Hon. Peter G. Stewart

Peter G. Stewart, born on September 6, 1809, in New York, pursued a career in watchmaking and jewelry. He migrated westward in 1838, ultimately reaching Oregon City in 1843 after traversing the desert. An active participant in the region’s governance, he served as a district court judge and later engaged in gold mining. Despite hardships, including losing his claim at Pacific City and multiple business setbacks, Stewart remained resilient. He married twice and lived in Gervais, Oregon, where he earned community respect and continued his watchmaking trade.

Biography of Hon. James Willis Nesmith

Hon. James Willis Nesmith, a prominent figure in Oregon’s history, was born in 1820 and became a distinguished politician and military leader. Arriving in Oregon with the early settlers, he developed a legal career after serving in various roles, including judge and superintendent of Indian affairs. A Union supporter during the Civil War, he was elected senator in 1861 and became a trusted advisor to President Lincoln. Known for his independence and moral integrity, Nesmith’s legacy reflects his unwavering commitment to public service and principled leadership. He passed away in 1885.

Biography of Sidney Walter Moss

Sidney Walter Moss, born in Paris, Kentucky, in 1810, is a distinguished pioneer in Oregon known for his generosity and business acumen. After moving west, he established the first hotel and livery stable in Oregon City, played a pivotal role in local infrastructure by building the first ferry-boat, and engaged in voluntary public service as an assessor. Moss invested in agriculture and accumulated substantial land holdings. His contributions to early Oregon society and hospitality to immigrants have left a lasting impact on the community.

Biography of Hon. Zenas Ferry Moody

Zenas Ferry Moody, born May 27, 1832, in Granby, Massachusetts, became the ex-Governor of Oregon, reflecting strong New England Revolutionary heritage. He moved to Oregon in 1851, contributing significantly to U.S. surveys and engaging in various business ventures, including the establishment of transportation lines. A prominent figure in the Republican Party, Moody was elected governor in 1882, known for his executive ability and business acumen. After his governorship, he focused on banking and business in The Dalles, exemplifying success in both public and private sectors.

Biography of Rev. Jesse Moreland

Rev. Jesse Moreland, born in 1802 in North Carolina, exemplifies integrity, hospitality, and devout Christian values. A self-made man and pioneer, he relocated to Oregon after addressing the adverse influences of slavery. Moreland’s life reflects his commitment to community service and his ability to forge a path through hard work and moral strength. A devoted husband and father, he is known for his generous spirit, unwavering friendship, and dedication to helping those in need, embodying the qualities of a true Christian gentleman.

Biography of Captain Z. C. Norton

Captain Z. C. Norton, born in Farmington, Maine, on December 29, 1808, was a notable pioneer in Oregon’s early history. He began his maritime career at fourteen, eventually commanding his vessel. In 1848, he ventured to the Pacific coast, navigating the perilous Columbia River bar. Captain Norton played a significant role in the coasting trade, supported destitute immigrants, and was a community figure in early Portland. He passed away on February 13, 1879, leaving a legacy of philanthropy and integrity.

Biography of Dr. Alden H. Steele

Dr. Alden H. Steele, born in 1823 in Oswego, New York, graduated from the University of New York and began his medical practice in Oswego. He moved to Oregon in 1849, later settling in Olympia, Washington, where he contributed significantly to local governance and healthcare. Steele served as a surgeon for various military posts and was actively involved in public duties, including his role as a medical inspector and examining surgeon for pensions. He is noted for being the first to use chloroform in surgery north of San Francisco.

Biography of Alonzo L. Richardson

Alonzo L. Richardson, born on December 19, 1841, in Missouri, arrived in Idaho in 1861 during its early development. He initially engaged in mining before shifting to a long career in court administration, starting as clerk of the supreme court in 1872 and later serving as clerk of the U.S. circuit and district courts. Richardson was also involved in mining ventures and the Episcopal Church, earning respect in Masonic circles. His contributions have significantly shaped Idaho’s progress, making him a notable figure in the state’s history.

Biography of Ephraim W. Baughman

Captain Ephraim W. Baughman, born on May 18, 1835, in Fulton County, Illinois, has been a prominent figure in the northwest’s river navigation for nearly half a century. Known for his engaging personality, he began his journey westward during the California Gold Rush. Over the years, he took on various roles, including captain of steamboats, and made significant contributions to river commerce, such as the exploration of the Snake River. Baughman’s legacy includes a successful family, a strong community presence, and notable achievements in the maritime industry.

Biography of William H. Sebastian

William H. Sebastian, born December 31, 1851, in Missouri, became a notable pioneer in northern Idaho, settling on Camas prairie in 1871. He participated in the Nez Perces Indian War, defending settlers alongside his father, Daniel Smith Sebastian. William acquired a government claim of 160 acres and married Thamer McKerlee in 1886, with whom he had one daughter. A committed farmer and Democrat, he built a residence in 1896 and remains dedicated to improving his community.

Biography of John L. Curtis

John L. Curtis, born in 1827 in the East, became a prominent pioneer in Union County, Oregon. Orphaned young, he worked as a silver-plater before moving west, where he engaged in various occupations including mining and storekeeping. He discovered the Sanger mine and served in multiple public offices, including county sheriff and chief of police. A Jeffersonian Democrat and active in the Masonic fraternity, he married Almira Wells and had four children. Curtis is recognized for his contributions to the region’s development and community welfare.