Fort Townsend Washington

Biography of Col. Granville O. Haller

Colonel Granville O. Haller was born on January 31, 1819, in York, Pennsylvania. Following a military career that began at West Point, he served in significant engagements, including the Florida War and the Mexican-American War, earning promotions due to his bravery. He later commanded forces during various Indian conflicts in the Pacific Northwest. Despite facing dismissal in 1863 for alleged disloyalty, he was later rehabilitated and achieved the rank of colonel before retiring in 1882. Haller subsequently contributed to local development in Washington Territory.

Biography of Hon. Robert C. Hill

Hon. Robert C. Hill was born on September 14, 1829, in Hatboro, Pennsylvania. He moved to Philadelphia for education and began a career in wholesale dry goods before relocating to the Pacific. After establishing a lumber yard in San Francisco and engaging in mining, he settled on Whidby Island in 1853. Hill played significant roles in public service, including clerk of the U.S. district court and auditor of Island County. He later co-established the First National Bank in Port Townsend and prioritized public good in his political pursuits. Hill married Elizabeth Philipps and had three children.