This provides the descendants of Wahmaskie, a Lower Chinook Indian who married James Huckquist, a white man. Using census and vital records, as well as Native American specific records, this research provides several generations of her descendants through her son, Dixie James, who was the only surviving heir.
I. L. Scammon, a pioneer born in Maine in 1822, journeyed to California during the Gold Rush and arrived in Chehalis County, Washington Territory, after navigating overland from Shoalwater Bay. He settled along the Chehalis River, where Montesano developed around his homestead. Marrying Lorinda Hopkins in 1844, Scammon significantly contributed to the community, hosting the first sermon and establishing the county’s second school. His children included Harriet, George, and Eva, among others, with one tragically passing at a young age.
Charles Biles, born in Warren County, Tennessee, in August 1809, moved to Christian County, Kentucky, before settling in Illinois. In 1853, he emigrated to Washington Territory with his family, being part of one of the first groups to do so. He farmed on Grand Mound Prairie while also serving as a minister. Biles passed away in 1869, leaving behind two sons and two daughters. His sons, David and Charles N., continued their father’s legacy in surveying and public service in the region.
Eva R. Hessemer, aged 94, passed away on June 28, 1993, in Tacoma. Born in Union, Oregon, she lived in Montesano until 1960, before moving to Goleta, California. Following her husband’s death, she relocated to Los Osos and then to Tacoma in 1991. She is survived by her daughter Doris Brown, son Robert A. Hessemer Jr., three siblings, four grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. Private graveside services are planned in Goleta, with arrangements by Lynn Funeral Home.
Jess W. Spencer, a former businessman in Union, passed away on November 19, 1937, in Montesano, Washington. Born on September 23, 1875, he was the son of pioneer parents who settled in the Grande Ronde Valley. Following a varied life that included farming and running a business, he married twice and raised a large family. His funeral at the Methodist Episcopal church in Union featured his six brothers as pallbearers. He is survived by his wife, children, and grandchildren.
Helen M. Jewett, aged 93, passed away on August 17 in La Grande, Oregon. Born on June 22, 1914, in Montesano, Washington, she dedicated her life to ministry alongside her husband, Joe, serving various Christian churches across Oregon. Helen was actively involved in church activities, youth camps, and Cove Christian Camp. After retirement, she continued her service to senior citizens in Yuma, Arizona. She is survived by her three children, numerous grandchildren, and siblings, and was predeceased by her husband in 2005.
Joe Jewett, 93, of La Grande, Oregon, passed away on February 19, 2005. Born on May 13, 1911, in Helena, Montana, he became a minister after studying electrical education and theology. Jewett served various Christian congregations across the Northwest for over 40 years, including Baker City’s First Christian Church for 21 years. He is survived by his wife Helen, their three children, and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. A memorial service is scheduled for 10 a.m. on February 22 at the First Christian Church in La Grande.
Hon. Charles N. Byles, born in 1844 to a Presbyterian minister, played a crucial role in the development of Montesano, Washington. After his family moved westward in 1853, he grew up and pursued education at Portland Commercial College. Byles undertook government surveying before purchasing land from Mr. King to establish Montesano in 1883. He actively fostered the town’s growth, serving as county auditor and treasurer while also managing a local bank. Married to Elizabeth J. Medcalf, he raised six children, four of whom survived.
Hon. Melancthon Z. Goodell, born in 1837 in Ohio, moved west with his family in 1850, settling initially in Oregon before relocating to Washington Territory. A participant in the Indian War, he later farmed near Elma for over twenty years before becoming a lumber and real estate dealer in Montesano. Goodell’s public service includes two terms as sheriff, two as assessor of Chehalis County, and two terms in the legislature. He married Rebecca Byles in 1858 and has eight children.