Mason County IL

Biography of Gilbert L. King

Gilbert L. King, born on February 9, 1848, in New York, emerged as a prominent figure in Malheur County, Oregon. After serving in the Civil War, he pursued education and held various teaching and railroad positions before settling in Ontario in 1885. There, he became the first railroad agent and later thrived in farming and real estate. A man of considerable wealth and respect, King is noted for his public speaking and community involvement, as well as for his dedicated family life with six children.

Biography of Orion Littell Rider

Orion Littell Rider, born on January 7, 1874, in Mason County, Illinois, was a prominent attorney in Vinita. A Grinnell College graduate, he pursued law at Drake University, becoming valedictorian. His legal career included roles as assistant U.S. district attorney and counsel in Alaska. Rider served as Vinita’s mayor and was active in the Rotary Club, American Legion, and fraternal organizations. A U.S. Army veteran, Rider’s commitment to public service and community well-being has established him as a respected figure in Vinita.

Biography of Truman W. Gardner

Truman W. Gardner, born in 1869 in Illinois, moved to Kansas in 1881 and became a prominent figure in Neosho Falls. A seasoned farmer, real estate agent, and banker, he has served as the cashier of the Neosho Falls State Bank since its establishment in 1906. Gardner is also involved in local governance and community organizations. Married to Ella Fox, they have one daughter, Mabel. His family’s roots trace back to England, with a lineage of farmers contributing to his diverse background.

Harris, Mary Ellen – Obituary

Mary Ella Harris, born November 30, 1861, in Mason County, Illinois, passed away on August 12, 1926, at Hot Lake, Oregon, at the age of 64. She married R. J. Harris in 1881, and they had ten children, seven of whom survived her. The funeral was held on August 17 at the L.D.S. Church in Union, with interment in North Powder Cemetery alongside her husband and two infant sons. Mrs. Harris endured significant suffering from cancer before her death.