Corvallis Oregon Genealogy – Access Genealogy

Online Research at the Corvallis-Benton County Public Library

The Corvallis-Benton County Public Library has digitized a wealth of genealogical resources for local history enthusiasts. Key offerings include “Corvallis Chronicles,” detailing the area’s history from 1870 to 1920, and various scanned telephone directories from the 1930s to 1950s. Additionally, the library provides an extensive index of articles on historic buildings and events, as well as a comprehensive account of Benton County’s history. These resources are invaluable for those exploring their genealogical roots in Corvallis and surrounding areas.

Biographical Sketch of Dr. V. C. Balkans

Dr. V. C. Belknap, a prominent physician in Prairie City, was born in 1871 near Corvallis, Oregon. He completed his education in Prineville and Portland, graduating from Jefferson Medical College in 1894. After practicing briefly in Philadelphia, he established his practice in Prairie City in January 1895. Known for his compassionate care and friendly demeanor, he has gained the affection of the community. Dr. Belknap is married to Clara McHaley and is an active member of several fraternal organizations and the Oregon Medical Society.

Biography of Hon. John Stewart

Hon. John Stewart, born in Virginia on February 12, 1800, moved to Indiana at fifteen, where he initially worked as a blacksmith before turning to cattle trading. A captain in the Black Hawk War, he became Holt County’s judge for four terms. In 1845, he led a challenging migration to Oregon, facing hardships but ultimately settling near Corvallis with his wife, Mary. Stewart died on February 28, 1885, leaving behind six children and a legacy of kindness and community service, remembered fondly by all.

Biography of Johnson Mulkey

Johnson Mulkey, born in 1808 in Kentucky, was a key pioneer in Oregon. After moving to Missouri in 1818, he married Susan Brown in 1835. In 1845, he journeyed to Oregon, claiming land near Corvallis. He returned to Missouri but moved back to Oregon with family and friends in 1847, engaging in stock rearing and supporting local churches. Known for his generosity, he ventured to California during the gold rush and faced hardships on return trips. He died in 1862, leaving a lasting legacy among his descendants.

Biography of Hon. James P. Stewart

Hon. James P. Stewart, born on September 21, 1833, in Delaware County, New York, has established a reputation as a successful businessman, legislator, and community leader in Washington Territory. After teaching and farming in his youth, he moved to Oregon and eventually settled in the Puyallup Valley. Stewart held various public offices, including judge and postmaster, demonstrating integrity and dedication. He excelled as a merchant and agriculturist, particularly in hop and raspberry cultivation, and played a significant role in establishing the Pacific National Bank, underscoring his impact on the local economy and community.

Biography of Green B. Smith

Green B. Smith, born September 10, 1820, in West Virginia, became a prominent pioneer of Western Oregon. He journeyed across the plains in 1845 with a wagon train to settle in the Willamette Valley after facing significant challenges, including a lost route and severe scarcity of resources. A successful farmer and stock-raiser in Benton County, Smith was known for his intelligence, public spirit, and generous support of local initiatives. He died on May 7, 1886, leaving a lasting legacy as a model citizen and pioneer.

Biography of Hon. James Harvey Slater

Hon. James Harvey Slater, a prominent figure in Oregon’s political landscape, was born in 1826 in Illinois. After moving to Oregon in 1849, he contributed to education and public service, notably in the territorial and state legislatures. Elected to the U.S. Congress and later the Senate, Slater was respected for his integrity and advocacy on issues like tariffs and immigration. He balanced political duties with law practice and family life, raising five sons and five daughters, and continues to hold a respected position in Oregon’s history.

Biography of Louis F. Horning

Louis F. Horning, born on August 20, 1851, in California, is a prominent farmer on Camas Prairie. He is the son of Frederick Horning, a Prussian immigrant who settled in various locations across the U.S. before establishing a farm near Corvallis, Oregon. Louis completed his education at Corvallis College and worked as a printer before venturing into the stock business. He moved to Camas Prairie in 1879, developed a successful 320-acre farm, and became known for his fruit cultivation, particularly peaches. A Democrat, he remains focused on his business and community contributions.

Biography of Thomas H. Crawford

Thomas H. Crawford, born on March 18, 1848, in Arkansas, is a distinguished lawyer and prominent citizen of Union County, Oregon. After studying law under notable judges, he was admitted to the bar in 1876. His legal career included roles as probate judge and service in the military. Crawford has been involved in state politics, being nominated for district attorney and circuit judge. A successful practitioner and orator, he is well-respected in his community, known for his scholarship, civic engagement, and commitment to justice.

Biography of William W. Randall

William W. Randall, born on October 28, 1852, in Indiana, was a pioneering figure in Union County, where he became a notable farmer and educator. After moving to Iowa in 1853 and later to the Grande Ronde valley, he worked as a farmer until 1878, when he received a scholarship to study at the Agricultural College at Corvallis. Following thirteen successful years in education, Randall returned to agriculture in Union County in 1888. He married Dillie Hood in 1884 and is respected for his integrity and community contributions.

Courtney, Pinkney L. – Obituary

P. L. Courtney, an early settler of the valley, passed away on April 10, 1919, in Payette, Idaho, after suffering from asthma and influenza. Born on January 31, 1848, in Virginia, he moved to Iowa and later to Oregon, where he farmed and remained active in his Baptist faith. He was married to Jane E. Barger, with whom he had nine children, six of whom survived him. His life was marked by multiple relocations in search of better health until his final days in Idaho.

Gray, George Grant – Obituary

George Grant Gray, a revered pioneer of Union County, Oregon, passed away on July 22, 1928, at his home in Lower Cove. Born on April 10, 1840, in Tennessee, he migrated to Oregon with his family in 1853. Gray settled in Union County in 1871 and was married to Sarah Sylvina Jasper, with whom he had seven children. Known for his hospitality and kindness, Gray contributed greatly to his community. He was laid to rest at Summerville Cemetery, alongside family.

Gray, Sarah Sylvina – Obituary

Mrs. G. G. Gray, aged 84, passed away at her Lower Cove home after a prolonged illness. Born Sarah Sylvina Jasper on August 11, 1855, she was the eldest daughter in a family of eight. She married George Grant Gray in 1874, with whom she had ten children, three of whom predeceased her. She was a devoted member of the Baptist church for over 30 years. Funeral services are scheduled for Tuesday at the Summerville chapel, conducted by Rev. Howard Smith.

Jasper, George M. – Obituary

George M. Jasper, aged 75, passed away at his home in Meridian, Idaho. Originally from Corvallis, he spent much of his youth in Cove. His funeral will take place on Sunday afternoon at Snodgrass chapel. Mr. Jasper is survived by his wife Ella Boswell Jasper, three daughters, Ora and Gladys in San Jose, California, and Vina in Meridian, as well as a son, Terrell. He was also an uncle to Mrs. Frank Conley from Cove.

Hale, Gladys Sarah – Obituary

Gladys Sarah Hale, born on May 28, 1900, in Lostine, Oregon, passed away on November 1, 1993, in Corvallis, Oregon. A funeral service was held on November 5, 1993, at Burns Mortuary Chapel in Hermiston, officiated by Fr. Alfred Miller, with music provided by taped selections. She was privately interred at Echo Cemetery in Echo, Oregon. This obituary reflects on her life and final arrangements.

Slater, Olive – Obituary

Olive Agnes Slater, born on March 29, 1860, in Corvallis, was a dedicated educator and community member. After attending Union County public schools and graduating from St. Paul’s Episcopal school, she taught in various institutions before caring for her family following her father’s death in 1899. She continued to be involved in church activities and remained engaged in political and educational issues despite her health challenges. Olive Slater, a pioneer of her time, passed away, leaving behind her sister and two brothers.

Wagner, Marion – Obituary

Marion Wagner, 58, of La Grande, passed away on Wednesday at Grande Ronde Hospital. A requiem mass will be held on Saturday at Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Church, with burial at Mt. Calvary Cemetery. Born in Corvallis, he lived in the Grande Ronde Valley for 36 years and was president of H. L. Wagner and Sons. He is survived by his widow, Ethel, two daughters, three sons, two brothers, and seven grandchildren. Arrangements are by Crippin and Daniels.

Sidor, Theodore Obit – Obituary

Theodore Sidor, 62, of Corvallis, Oregon, passed away from natural causes in Alexandria, Virginia. A former resident of La Grande, he served as a city council member in Corvallis and was a professor emeritus at Oregon State University. Funeral arrangements are under the care of DeMoss-Durdan Garden Chapel in Corvallis.

Huffman, Estella C. – Obituary

Estella C. Huffman, 84, passed away on September 10, 1981, at the Corvallis Care Center. Born on January 31, 1897, in Elgin, she graduated from Northwest Christian College in 1922. Estella married Fred M. Huffman in 1927, living in La Grande before moving to Corvallis, where she resided until her death. She is survived by her son, Wallace, siblings, two grandchildren, and one great-grandson. No public services were held. McHenry Funeral Home managed her arrangements.

Ball, Margaret Ann Carroll – Obituary

Margaret Ann Carroll Ball, 80, of La Grande, passed away on July 2. A funeral service will be held on July 6 at the First Baptist Church, followed by graveside services at Grandview Cemetery. Born in 1926 in Mississippi, she married Herb Carroll in 1946 and moved to La Grande in 1959. An active church member, she served as a deaconess and sang in the choir. After her husband’s passing, she traveled extensively and later married Braden Ball. She is survived by her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.