Dubuque Iowa

Colonel Dodge Reaches Villages of Western Indians

General Leavenworth’s expedition to the Wichita country faced significant challenges, suffering from sickness among his men and horses, leading to a drastic reduction in their numbers. Upon reaching the Washita River, Colonel Dodge took command of the reorganized force, now diminished to 250 men. Their journey included encounters with Comanche tribes, where they sought to establish peace and facilitate trade. As the expedition progressed, the troops faced further hardships, including loss of supplies and sickness, ultimately culminating in a crucial meeting with the Wichita tribe to discuss treaties and exchanges.

Biography of George Mitchell

George Mitchell was born to Rev. John Mitchell and Catherine Teter, who emigrated from England to America in 1774. John Mitchell served in the Virginia militia during the Revolutionary War and was a prominent preacher in Virginia. George’s lineage includes significant figures such as Rev. Anthony Jacob Henkel, a founder of the Lutheran Church in America. George’s daughter, Mrs. Guernsey, contributed to her community through various educational and philanthropic efforts, while her husband became a successful banker in Kansas.

Biography of Garrison G. Gray

Garrison G. Gray, a prominent figure in Malheur County, was born in Ohio in 1830. His lineage includes a Revolutionary War soldier, and Gray himself faced numerous challenges as a pioneer. He ventured across the plains in 1851, eventually settling in Oregon, where he built a successful life as a carpenter, educator, and farmer. Gray held significant roles, including the first postmaster of Dell. He married twice, fathering nine children, and remained active in community affairs and church, despite hardships faced during settlement.

Biographical Sketch of James H. Farley

James H. Farley, born in Dubuque, Iowa, in 1858, exemplified integrity and perseverance throughout his diverse career. After learning the railroad trade from his father, he ventured into various occupations, including ranching and operating saw mills, before establishing a successful livery business in Ontario, which became one of the largest in the region. He married Martha Darr in 1884 and had five children. Farley’s community involvement included memberships in several fraternal organizations, reflecting his commitment to both business and civic duty.

Biography of James H. Hawley

James H. Hawley, born in Dubuque, Iowa, in 1847, emerged as a significant figure in Idaho’s political, commercial, and legal spheres. His extensive career included serving as a member of the territorial legislature, district attorney, and United States district attorney. A noted Democratic advocate, he played a crucial role in Idaho politics and mining law, gaining prominence as one of the region’s leading criminal lawyers. Hawley’s dedication to public service and legal excellence significantly influenced Idaho’s development and political landscape.

Biography of William Roth

William Roth, born in Baden, Germany in 1834, immigrated to the United States at eighteen. He settled in Norwalk, Ohio before moving to Dubuque, Iowa. In 1864, he arrived in Grande Ronde Valley, Oregon, where he established himself as a skilled builder and became a prominent property owner. Roth was also involved in real estate and stock raising, achieving significant financial success. Active in local politics, he served on Union’s first city council and is well-respected in his community, enjoying a fulfilling life as a celibate.

Biography of James Hutchinson

James Hutchinson, born in Yorkshire, England, on November 17, 1837, emigrated with his family to Iowa in 1848. He gained experience in mining and smelting, which prepared him for significant roles in the mining industry, including superintendent of the Gregory lode and later the Trade Dollar Mining Company in Silver City, Idaho. Under his leadership, the latter achieved notable profitability. Hutchinson, a devoted family man and Knight Templar Mason, lost his wife in 1889 and raised six children, maintaining a respected reputation throughout his career.

The City of Dubuque, Iowa

Following the war, veterans formed a company to establish Dubuque, with Capt. James Craig surveying the town in September 1832. Early settlers, including the Langworthy brothers, began businesses catering to miners drawn by the nearby lead fields, despite legal uncertainties surrounding land claims. Major Davenport, sent to remove intruders under a treaty with local tribes, met with miners who ultimately disregarded government orders. While initial claims were complicated by congressional delays, Dubuque eventually flourished, evolving into a significant city by the Mississippi.

Biography of George S. Brooke

George S. Brooke, born on February 12, 1855, in Dubuque, Iowa, is the cashier, director, and a major shareholder of the First National Bank of Sprague. He descends from notable lineages in Maryland and Virginia. After graduating from Griswold College in 1872, he embarked on a westward journey, eventually working in banking in Oregon. In 1882, he co-founded a banking firm in Sprague and became its first mayor upon incorporation in 1883. Brooke is also involved in local education and trade organizations and has a family of two children.

Biography of Col. William Williams Chapman

William William Chapman

Colonel William Williams Chapman (1808-1897) was a pivotal figure in early American history, particularly in Iowa and Oregon. He played a crucial role in establishing policies that shaped their governance, including advocating for public education and judicial reforms. A key figure in Oregon’s development, he was instrumental in Portland’s rise and railroad expansion, always prioritizing public welfare over personal gain. Chapman’s legacy reflects his dedication to community service and strategic foresight, making him a prominent leader in the foundational years of the American West.

Biography of Henry H. Northup

Henry H. Northup was born in Berkshire, Massachusetts, on February 27, 1839. After his father’s death, he helped support his family while pursuing education. He taught school before studying law and serving in the First Iowa Infantry during the Civil War. Northup graduated from Columbia College Law School in 1868 and relocated to Portland, Oregon, where he practiced law, gaining recognition in corporate law. He briefly entered politics, successfully influencing legislation, while maintaining a reputation for integrity and dedication to his profession and community.

Biography of James Steel

James Steel, born on September 20, 1834, in Ohio, became a prominent banker in Portland, Oregon. His father, a Scottish immigrant, was a principled abolitionist and businessman. After starting his career in retail, Steel excelled in banking, serving as the Cashier of the First National Bank and later as president of the Merchants National Bank. He was involved in various enterprises, including railway and lumber companies, and contributed significantly to the community through charitable work. A devoted family man, Steel was active in his church and maintained a conservative, integrity-driven approach to business.

Biography of Col. W.W. Chapman

Colonel W.W. Chapman, born in Virginia in 1808, played a pivotal role in the development of Portland and the Pacific Northwest. As an early pioneer, he significantly influenced Iowa’s foundational policies before moving to Oregon. Over nearly fifty years, Chapman’s integrity and fierce advocacy advanced the city’s political and business landscape. He actively participated in events such as the Indian Wars, legislative efforts, and advocating for railroad connections, ensuring Oregon’s economic growth. His legacy as a dedicated public servant is vital to the region’s history.

Biography of David Warnock

In the spring of 1869, the Warnock family, originally from Ireland, migrated from Dubuque County to Ida County, Iowa, settling on June 10 amidst only seven families. David Warnock, born in Pennsylvania in 1846, established a blacksmith shop in 1870 after marrying Mary Ferguson during their journey. He worked various roles, including a mail carrier for the pony express, and successfully defended his homestead claim against a land company. The family later transitioned from a soddy to a frame house, contributing to the area’s agricultural development as the railroad arrived in 1877.

Biographical Sketch of Thomas Crane

Thomas Crane, born on March 25, 1844, in the Isle of Man, immigrated to America at age eleven after his father’s death. He settled in Iowa in 1877, bringing minimal possessions but establishing a successful farm in Maple Township. Crane became a prominent veterinary surgeon, dehorning the first 6,000 cattle in the area. He married Elizabeth Jones in 1864 and they had eight children. Crane actively participated in his community as a School Board member and Township Trustee.

Biographical Sketch of Enoch Jones

Enoch Jones, born on March 6, 1825, in Bourbon County, Kentucky, moved to Iowa in 1852. He settled in Scott’s Grove, Jones County, where he farmed and operated a thresher. In 1874, he purchased land in Ida County and later moved to Battle Creek in 1883 to manage his real estate. Jones was also engaged in general merchandise in Monticello from 1863 to 1873 and later specialized in buying and selling horses, acquiring notable breeds like Union Jack and Randolph.