Biography of Noyes B. Holbrook

Noyes B. Holbrook, a pioneer of Idaho since 1862, significantly contributed to the state’s growth through dedicated citizenship and entrepreneurial ventures. Born in 1830 in Connecticut, he journeyed west in 1854, engaging in various trades before establishing a prominent roller-process flour mill in Juliaetta. Holbrook held multiple civic roles, including sheriff of Nez Perces County and mayor of Lewiston. A respected member of the community and the Masonic fraternity, he led a life marked by integrity and public service, marrying twice and raising three children.

Biographical Sketch of Lewis Deck

Lewis Deck, a native of Pennsylvania, is the eldest son of Henry Deck, a Waukeha County pioneer. Leaving home at fifteen, he journeyed to California via Panama in 1857, facing hardships, including illness and poverty. Initially working in gardens, he spent over two decades mining for gold along the West Coast, primarily in Nevada and Mexico. After numerous successes and failures in mining, Deck transitioned to horticulture in 1883, embodying the spirit and resilience of a true pioneer with a wealth of experience in early mining history.

Biography of Theron H. Palmer

Theron H. Palmer, born on February 14, 1849, in Joliet, Illinois, became a notable architect and builder in Southern California. After serving in the Nineteenth Illinois Infantry during the Civil War, Palmer pursued mining in Montana before settling in California in 1867. He established himself as a pioneering architect in San Bernardino, designing prominent buildings such as the Occidental block and the ornate new hall of records. Married to Mabel E. Smith in 1886, Palmer also invested in local infrastructure and land development.

Biography of Eli K. Anderson

Eli K. Anderson, born in Indiana in 1826, was a significant figure in the development of Southern Oregon’s fruit industry and a dedicated temperance advocate. A miner, Indian fighter, and horse thief pursuer, he journeyed to California in 1849. Anderson discovered gold at Scott bar and later pursued horse thieves through challenging terrains. In 1852, he settled in Rogue River Valley, engaging in agriculture and holding various local offices. He owned extensive land and mills, and was devoted to his family and community.

Biography of Capt. John Harford

Captain John Harford, born on February 14, 1828, in Westchester County, New York, became a prominent figure in Pataha City, Washington. After moving westward in 1850, he engaged in various businesses, including ranching, butchering, and lumber dealing. Notably, he established the first wharf in Port Harford and helped construct a railroad to San Luis Obispo. Although he held public office, he preferred private enterprise, accumulating wealth through banking and milling. A devoted family man, Harford is remembered for his integrity and his contributions to the community.

Biography of Samuel M. McCurdy, M.D.

Samuel M. McCurdy, M.D., born in 1805 in Ireland, was a prominent figure in the medical and civic landscape of the Lower Sound. He earned his medical degree from Trinity College, Dublin, before migrating to North America, where he practiced medicine in New Brunswick and California. In 1854, he settled in Washington, becoming a pioneer in the region and contributing significantly to its development. He served as a surgeon during the Indian war, co-founded the Port Townsend Register, and helped establish St. Paul’s Church and public schools. McCurdy passed away in 1865, leaving behind his widow and five children.

James Rogers – Obituary

This is the obituary for James Rogers, age 84, who died on June 16, 2008. It was initially published by the Record Courier in Baker City, Oregon on June 26, 2008.

Biography of Tyler Woodward

Tyler Woodward, born in 1835 in Vermont, descended from a military family, pursued education in New England before embarking on a diverse career. He settled in California before moving to Washoe County amid the gold rush, later running a successful business in Montana. After relocating to Portland, he became a prominent real estate investor and participated in various business ventures, including the Trans-Continental Street Railway. A dedicated Republican, Woodward served in local government but was not politically ambitious. He married Mary J. Ross in 1872, and they had one daughter.