Harney County OR

Harney County Oregon Genealogy

Harney County, Oregon, established in 1889, features a rich genealogy encompassing a history of the region, biographical sketches of early settlers, and obituaries. Named after General Harney, the county’s expansive land is known for its natural resources and grazing potential. This genealogy includes excerpts from “An Illustrated History of Baker, Grant, Malheur and Harney Counties Oregon,” highlighting significant individuals like A. J. McKinnon and H. B. Horton. The information continues to be updated, promising further insights into the county’s past.

An Illustrated History of Baker, Grant, Malheur and Harney Counties Oregon

These 91 biographies and sketches have been taken from the manuscript “An Illustrated History of Baker, Grant, Malheur and Harney Counties Oregon.” Presently this is an incomplete offering so subscribe to this page if you’re interested on further updates. We will eventually provide the entire manuscript here.

I. S. Greer & Company

I. S. Greer & Company, established in 1892, stands as a significant stone building in Burns, noted for its extensive inventory of hardware, stoves, crockery, and sporting goods. They serve as exclusive agents for various reputable brands and operate the only tin shop in the area, providing plumbing and repair services. Additionally, they carry undertaker supplies and have acquired the well-equipped Sayers saw mill. The firm’s commitment to customer satisfaction has fostered a strong and loyal client base.

N. Brown & Sons

N. Brown & Sons, established in 1854 by Nathan Brown and his sons Leon M. and Ben, began as a small general merchandise store and grew to become the largest of its kind off the railroad in the state. By 1816, they built a substantial stone structure to accommodate their business, which focuses on serving local sheep and cattlemen. Under the leadership of Leon and Ben, the store excels in providing competitively priced goods, expertly managing substantial shipments to meet customer needs.

Biographical Sketch of Geo. W. Hayes

Geo. W. Hayes, a prominent attorney in Eastern Oregon, has made significant contributions to Harney County through his talent and dedication. Born in Marion County, Iowa, in 1859, he migrated to Oregon with his family in 1862. After a varied early life that included teaching and carpentry, he began studying law in 1887 and was admitted to the bar in 1891. Hayes has actively engaged in politics as a Republican and is married with two sons.

Biographical Sketch of Thomas Jones

Born in 1865 in Header San County, Kentucky, Thomas Jones moved to Malheur County, Oregon, at age 16. He initially pursued various professions before being appointed deputy county clerk in 1887 and later becoming Register of the Land Office at Burns in 1894. Recently, he has entered the banking sector in partnership with John V. Biggs. Known for his industry and integrity, Jones is married to Stella Staples, and they have a six-year-old daughter.

Biographical Sketch of A. J. McKinnon

A. J. McKinnon, born in 1866 in Page County, Iowa, has resided in Harney County since 1886, with brief interruptions. He operated a blacksmith shop in Burns before being elected sheriff in June 1896 on the Democratic ticket. McKinnon has proven to be a capable and efficient officer, earning general satisfaction in his role. He is also active in fraternal organizations, including the Masons, Knights of Pythias, and Odd Fellows.

Biographical Sketch of H. B. Horton

H. M. Horton, a prominent druggist in Burns, began his career in Grant County in 1885 as a dentist in Diamond Valley. Transitioning to the drug business in 1891, he established the largest drug store in Eastern Oregon outside of railroad access. His store offers a wide range of products, including drugs, chemicals, stationery, and jewelry. Horton is a registered pharmacist and dentist, supported by his capable assistant, Mr. D. F. Spiegle, also a registered pharmacist.

Biographical Sketch of Charles P. Rutherford

Hon. Charles P. Rutherford, self-made County Judge of Harney County, emerged from an orphaned childhood with basic education. He began his career in stock raising in Grant County before relocating to Morrow County. Returning to Grant County in 1887, he gained support across party lines for his election as County Judge in 1894 on the Populist ticket. His tenure is marked by significant contributions to the county, adding substantial taxable property through diligent efforts with the county commissioners.

Biographical Sketch of John W. Biggs

John W. Biggs, born in 1870 in Georgetown, Kentucky, displayed ambition and determination early in life. After moving to Pike County, Missouri, he began studying law while teaching school in Oregon. Admitted to the bar in 1894, he returned to Burns to practice law successfully. In 1897, he co-founded the Jones Biggs bank, engaging in a general brokerage business. His personal life includes marriage to Mabel Hazeltine from Canyon City. His drive for success has earned him many friends in Oregon.

A Brief History of Harney County Oregon

Harney County, established in 1889 and named after General Harney, is a vast region rich in natural resources. Primarily an agricultural hub, it has thrived on cattle, sheep, and mineral extraction since the 1870s. The county seat, Burns, serves as a trade center and reflects community confidence through its well-built infrastructure. Residents enjoy a healthy climate and access to various recreational activities. Although the area is developing, there are still abundant opportunities for future growth, particularly in agriculture and resource management.

Biographical Sketch of Edmund A. Fraser

Edmund A. Fraser, born on September 2, 1870, in Woodstock, Canada, emerged as a prominent figure in Malheur County. After moving to Ontario at eighteen, he worked at the Oregon Forwarding Company before acquiring the Malheur Mercantile Company in 1900. Under his management, the business flourished, serving a broad customer base with diverse merchandise. Fraser’s leadership and fair practices established his firm as a local favorite. He is also active in community organizations and is married to Ida Holland, with whom he has a son, Edmund A., Jr.

Biographical Sketch of Joseph P. Rector

Joseph P. Rector, born in Schenectady County, New York, in 1844, has achieved remarkable success in Harney County, transitioning from humble beginnings to becoming a leading stockman. Arriving in the region with no resources, Rector’s industriousness led him to acquire a thousand-acre ranch known as the Crow Camp, famous for its rich soil and abundant water. His ranching enterprise, characterized by cattle and horse raising, has flourished due to his exceptional management. Respected by his peers, Rector remains unmarried, choosing a solitary life dedicated to his work.

Biography of William Henry Canaday

William Henry Canaday, born on May 26, 1863, in Lane County, Oregon, is a notable businessman who gained prominence in Harney County. His parents, Madison and Sarah E. Canaday, were pioneers who endured hardship during their westward journey. William learned saw milling and photography, eventually opening the first photography gallery in Burns in 1887. He married Mary C. McMurphy in 1897, and they had two children. Active in the community, he is a past grand of the I.O.O.F. and respected in local society.

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.

Biography of James F. Mahon

James F. Mahon, born on April 29, 1855, in Syracuse, New York, emerged as a prominent figure in Harney County, Oregon. After gaining experience as a superintendent in California, he moved to Oregon in 1879, becoming the county’s largest grain farmer and a leading breeder of horses and mules. Mahon’s integrity, financial acumen, and tireless work ethic have greatly advanced the county’s agriculture. He is also a devoted family man, with four children from his second marriage, and maintains active involvement in various civic organizations.

Biographical Sketch of James P. Dickenson

James P. Dickenson, born on February 18, 1842, in Virginia, has established himself as a prominent stockman and farmer in Harney County, Oregon. After serving as a second lieutenant in the Civil War and enduring captivity, he returned home to marry Laura A. Milton in 1866. The family migrated westward, ultimately settling near Lawen in 1889, where they farmed and raised livestock. A respected member of the Harney Valley Stock Association, Dickenson has three children and continues to be a vital part of his community.

Biography of Thomas Howard

Thomas Howard, born in New York in 1833, significantly contributed to the development of Harney County. After venturing west during the Gold Rush, he became a skilled butcher and was instrumental in discovering gold at Canyon Creek. He served as the first sheriff of Grant County, navigating challenges including a dangerous encounter with Native Americans while transporting gold. Married to Mrs. Shinn in 1865, Howard settled in Drewsey in 1883, where he improved his land and established a prominent estate, raising his son, Edward J.

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 William L. Clark

William L. Clark, born on April 3, 1845, in Indiana, moved with his family to Oregon in 1853 after a challenging journey across the plains. A Civil War veteran, he served in the First Oregon Volunteers. After various trades, he homesteaded near Lawen in 1885, where he raised cattle and hay. In 1900, he opened a successful general merchandise store in Lawen and also acted as a mail contractor until 1902. Clark and his wife Nancy had six children, contributing to the community’s growth.