The Rogue Valley Genealogical Society (RVGS) is located in Medford, Oregon in the Rogue River Valley of Southern Oregon. This page contains a list of the genealogical indexes available on the society website, providing an easy and quick reference for the type and range of records available.
William H. Pullen, a notable figure in Malheur County, was born in Illinois on March 1, 1845. After relocating several times, he settled in Malheur County in 1897, acquiring 120 acres near Owyhee. His successful ventures included farming, mercantile, and lumbering. An active community member, he served as County Assessor beginning in 1900. Pullen married twice, first to Harriet J. Cross and later to Lucinda Whetstone, raising several children from both unions. A respected citizen, he is affiliated with the I.O.O.F. Lodge No. 90 in Ontario.
Cornelius G. Morehead, born on June 26, 1865, in Linn County, Oregon, comes from a pioneering family that settled in the Willamette Valley in 1848. His father, a millwright, built Oregon’s first mill in Salem. After relocating several times, Cornelius established his own farm near Nyssa in 1901, where he cultivated alfalfa and raised cattle. He married Elizabeth Ehrgood in 1899, with whom he had two daughters. An engaged Republican, Morehead actively participated in local and state affairs, embodying the progressive spirit of Oregonian citizens.
Isadore L. Poujade, born December 8, 1857, in Marion County, Oregon, is a notable figure in Harney County for his integrity and contributions to local agriculture. After gaining experience in farming and stock raising, he became foreman at Todhunter Devine and later partnered with Charles W. Jones, acquiring the Cow Creek Ranch. Following Jones’s death, Poujade continued to thrive in the stock business. Married to Jane Miller, they raised five children, earning respect and recognition in their community.
Charles Nickell, born in Yreka, California, in 1856, emerged as a prominent journalist and businessman in the Pacific Northwest. Overcoming early educational challenges, he became an assistant teacher by age thirteen and later completed his printing apprenticeship at the Yreka Journal. In 1872, he purchased the Democratic Times in Jacksonville, leading it to significant success. A committed Democrat, Nickell also invested in real estate and engaged in politics, notably as president of the Oregon Press Association. He faced personal tragedy with the death of his wife, Ella, leaving him with three children to raise.
Captain Thomas Smith, born in 1809 in Kentucky, played a vital role as a pioneer and Indian fighter in Southern Oregon. After traveling to Texas and crossing the plains to California, he settled in Oregon, establishing one of the area’s first settlements near Ashland. Smith’s interactions with local tribes were marked by both conflict and cooperation, including notable agreements with Chief Tipsy. He participated in several Indian wars, leading volunteer efforts. Later, he was elected to the legislature and remained an active and respected figure until his later years.
Harrison B. Oatman was born in Cortland, New York, in 1826 and moved to Ohio and then Rockford, Illinois, where he married Lucena K. Ross in 1847. In 1853, he journeyed to Oregon, settling in Jackson County, and participated in mining and trading. He notably escaped an attack related to the Indian war and later lived in Portland, transitioning from grocery trade to land speculation. Oatman served as a first lieutenant in the First Oregon Infantry during the Civil War, earning commendations for his bravery.
John Hailey, a prominent pioneer and statesman of Idaho, was born on August 29, 1835, in Tennessee. He moved to Idaho in the 1860s, where he built a successful stagecoach and freight business, eventually serving as a delegate to Congress. Hailey played a crucial role in the development of Idaho and was honored with the naming of Hailey, Idaho, after him. A lifelong Democrat, he also engaged in ranching and mining, while raising eight children. Hailey remains a respected figure in Idaho’s history.
Joseph Pinkham, born in Canada in 1833, emerged as a prominent figure in Idaho’s history. A descendant of early New England settlers, he sought opportunities in the American West, engaging in mining and commerce. Appointed three times as the United States marshal of Idaho, he played a crucial role in maintaining law and order during turbulent times and garnered a reputation for bravery. A committed Republican and business expert in mining, Pinkham’s influence shaped Idaho’s development, earning him respect and admiration as an honorable citizen.
George O. Sampson, born in Siskiyou, California, in 1853, was a prominent figure in Silver City, Idaho. Educated primarily in Portland, Oregon, he became a mechanical engineer and worked in journalism before establishing a successful engineering career in mining. In 1893, he expanded into the livery business, managing a leading ranch and livery stable in the region. Active in politics, he represented Owyhee County in the territorial legislature and served on various committees. A member of the Knights of Pythias and Masonic lodge, he was known for his integrity and commitment to public service.
Mary Elizabeth Hearing, a pioneer of Wallowa County, Oregon, passed away on May 29, 1929, at her daughter’s home near Medford. Funeral services took place at the Lostine Christian Church, led by Rev. Arthur Harriman, with hymns performed by a local quartet. Born in 1846 in Iowa, she moved to Oregon in 1853 and married George Hearing in 1865, raising eleven children. Survived by six children, 23 grandchildren, and many great-grandchildren, she was known for her kindness and dedication to her community.
Robert Edward Childers III, a 60-year-old artist known for designing the Hobbie Holly cloth doll at American Greetings, passed away in Medford. Born on January 21, 1924, in Lostine, Oregon, he served in the Navy and later studied at various prestigious art institutions. Childers exhibited his paintings in Philadelphia galleries and held a position at Norcross Inc. after returning to Pennsylvania. He is survived by his mother, Flora Merriken, a brother, and a son. Interment will be at Jacksonville Cemetery.
Lucille C. Childers, a former Wallowa County resident, passed away on July 11, 1996, in Medford. Born on May 16, 1911, in Milner, Idaho, she was the daughter of Frank O. and Rosella Sizemore. Lucille married Claire Childers on June 6, 1929, who predeceased her in 1990. She is survived by her sons, James and Eugene Childers, a sister, and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Graveside services took place on July 15 at the Enterprise Cemetery. Memorial contributions can be made to the Enterprise Christian Church.
Robert Lindford Cole (1867-1950) was a pioneer of Wallowa County, Oregon, having arrived with his family from Nebraska in 1880. He began his journey at age 13, hunting for food along the way. Following various farming ventures, including a stint in Canada, he returned to Wallowa County, where he became postmaster in Paradise. Cole credited his faith with providing him peace and happiness later in life. He is survived by two sons, two daughters, and several deceased siblings.
John W. McCully, born on May 22, 1821, in New Brunswick, passed away on January 20, 1899, in Joseph, Oregon. He relocated with his family to Ohio in 1822, later lived in Iowa, and moved to Jacksonville, Oregon in 1852. After studying medicine in St. Louis, he served as a purser on Willamette River steamboats and was a prominent figure in the last Territorial Legislature representing Jackson County. McCully was also an active member of the Masonic community.
Richard R. Garrett of Medford, born April 8, 1898, in Flora, Oregon, passed away on Monday. Funeral services are set for 3 PM today at Hillcrest Memorial Park, officiated by Mr. Richard F. Genaw. A World War I Army veteran, Mr. Garrett was involved in the logging business and had lived in Medford for 50 years. He is survived by his wife Bessie, a son, a daughter, four grandchildren, and one sister; three brothers and two sisters predeceased him.
Raymond (Rod) Garrett passed away on May 17, 1942, at his brother Richard’s home near Medford, after struggling with health issues and personal difficulties. His death, resulting from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, prompted his body to be transported to Enterprise for funeral services held at the Flora Methodist Church, officiated by Rev. O.M. Adams. Born on November 20, 1907, in Flora, Rod is survived by his wife Leona, six siblings, and an uncle. His unexpected passing is mourned by many in the community.
John J. McClain passed away on June 26, 1978, at Wallowa Memorial Hospital after a five-day stay. Born on September 30, 1886, he was a lifelong resident of Oregon, living in Joseph, Medford, and Salem. He was widowed in 1939 and remarried Lurena B. in 1977. A retired meat cutter, McClain is survived by his wife, three children, a sister, along with eight grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His funeral service was held on July 1, and he was interred at Prairie Creek Cemetery.
Louis R. Bloom, a lifelong resident of Wallowa County, Oregon, passed away on December 22, 1937, in Goldendale, Washington, due to a heart attack while traveling to join his wife in California. Born on August 19, 1885, he was the son of pioneer R.W. Bloom and married Minnie Fluke in 1917. The couple resided in Medford until relocating to Yakima three years prior to his death. Funeral services were held at Booth Chapel in Enterprise, with burial in the local cemetery.
Eva R. Colpitts, 97, passed away on October 29 at the Wallowa Valley Care Center in Enterprise, Oregon. Born on December 6, 1908, in Cliffs, Washington, she was raised by Orris and Effie Gorsline after her mother’s death. Eva married Edmund Perry Colpitts in 1927 and worked various farms and businesses throughout her life. After her husband’s passing in 1959, she managed the 21 Club in Medford until 1973. A celebration of life will be held at Bollman Funeral Home.