The GFO Research Library has more than 60,000 holdings for all of the United States and many locations around the world, with particular strengths in the Pacific Northwest, Virginia, and French Canada. They have also placed online a variety of different indexes which users can search. While largely focused on Oregon and the communities within the state, it does have some non-Oregon based genealogy information online.
Dr. Leo J. Flanagan is a prominent physician and surgeon practicing in South San Francisco, having moved from a successful practice in San Francisco to capitalize on the region’s growth potential. Born in Napa, California, on August 6, 1885, he graduated from Santa Clara College and completed his medical training at Johnstown University. With experience as a resident physician at various hospitals and as part of the San Francisco emergency service, Dr. Flanagan is also involved in several fraternal organizations and married in Portland in 1913.
Lyall Keith, aged 66, passed away on February 9, 1970, in Walton, Oregon. Born on November 13, 1903, in Portland, he had lived in Lane County for over three decades. He married Edith Bilyeu on December 24, 1930, in Albany. Survived by his wife and half brother Gordon Keith, Lyall was also a member of the Eugene Moose Lodge. Funeral services are scheduled for February 12 at Poole-Larsen Chapel, followed by private cremation and interment at Pine Grove Cemetery.
Ormond R. Bean, a retired Portland City Commissioner, passed away at 89 due to natural causes. He served in various capacities over 31 years, including on the Portland City Council and as Oregon Public Utility Commissioner, while also contributing to wartime transportation efforts during WWII. Known for his integrity and calm demeanor, he was respected by colleagues and the community. Bean graduated from the University of Oregon and had a notable career in municipal finance. He is survived by his children and grandchildren.
Mrs. Nevada L. Kryger, 73, a long-time resident of the Sellwood community, passed away, and a Requiem mass will be celebrated at St. Agatha Catholic Church at 9 a.m. on Friday. She was originally from Lewis County, Washington, and is survived by her husband Cornelius, daughter Alice Katherine Jones, a grandson, and sisters Irene Nolton and Nellie Miller. Interment will take place at Mount Calvary Cemetery, with a rosary service scheduled for 8 p.m. today at McGinnis Wilhelm Chapel.
In 1849, the vessel Madonna under Captain Couch significantly contributed to Portland’s early commerce by successfully transporting goods from New York to San Francisco. After returning to Portland, Couch initiated the surveying of streets, showcasing entrepreneurial spirit. The arrival of steamers, particularly the Gold Hunter and later the Columbia, highlighted the city’s aspirations as a seaport. By 1851, Portland’s growth was evident with an emerging business landscape and population, reflecting its transition from a small settlement to a burgeoning metropolis in Oregon.
Hon. Peter Paquet, born in St. Louis, Missouri, in 1839, emigrated to Oregon with his family in 1852. After enduring a challenging journey marked by the hardships of prairie life, they settled in Portland before moving to Canemah and eventually to the Paquet Donation claim. A notable figure in Oregon’s political landscape, he served multiple terms in the legislature, city council, and as mayor of Oregon City. Paquet was also a successful contractor and builder, contributing significantly to the state’s infrastructure. He was married to Sarah E. Hamilton and had three children.
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.
N. E. Duncan, born on March 27, 1838, in Illinois, has been a significant figure in the development of Harney County. His journey began in 1859 when he traveled to California and later settled in Oregon, where he worked as a miner and rancher. Known for his integrity and moral uprightness, he successfully transformed raw land into productive farms, focusing on livestock. Although briefly nominated for county commissioner, he declined the position and now enjoys a quiet retirement, respected by his community for his contributions and character.
Peter G. Stewart, born on September 6, 1809, in New York, pursued a career in watchmaking and jewelry. He migrated westward in 1838, ultimately reaching Oregon City in 1843 after traversing the desert. An active participant in the region’s governance, he served as a district court judge and later engaged in gold mining. Despite hardships, including losing his claim at Pacific City and multiple business setbacks, Stewart remained resilient. He married twice and lived in Gervais, Oregon, where he earned community respect and continued his watchmaking trade.
James P. Stephens, born in Virginia in 1806, moved to Oregon in 1844 and became a prominent figure in East Portland. After acquiring land through the Donation land law, he established a ferry service and laid out the city. Despite facing significant financial setbacks, including losses from ventures in California and banking, he managed to retain a portion of his estate, which later appreciated in value. Known for his benevolence and resilience, he passed away in March 1889, leaving a legacy cherished by his community.
Robert Wilson Morrison, born March 14, 1811, in Kentucky, was a key figure in the 1844 Oregon immigration. After moving to Missouri and marrying Nancy Irwin, he became involved in the migration to Oregon, leading a company across the plains. Known for his leadership during the journey and resourceful management, he faced numerous challenges, including Indian encounters. After settling in Clatsop Plains, Morrison contributed to agriculture, served in the Cayuse War, and participated in Oregon’s first legislature. His wife, Nancy, demonstrated remarkable courage during their travels and raised their children in frontier life.
Rev. Jesse Moreland, born in 1802 in North Carolina, exemplifies integrity, hospitality, and devout Christian values. A self-made man and pioneer, he relocated to Oregon after addressing the adverse influences of slavery. Moreland’s life reflects his commitment to community service and his ability to forge a path through hard work and moral strength. A devoted husband and father, he is known for his generous spirit, unwavering friendship, and dedication to helping those in need, embodying the qualities of a true Christian gentleman.
Captain Z. C. Norton, born in Farmington, Maine, on December 29, 1808, was a notable pioneer in Oregon’s early history. He began his maritime career at fourteen, eventually commanding his vessel. In 1848, he ventured to the Pacific coast, navigating the perilous Columbia River bar. Captain Norton played a significant role in the coasting trade, supported destitute immigrants, and was a community figure in early Portland. He passed away on February 13, 1879, leaving a legacy of philanthropy and integrity.
Sigmund Sichel, born in Bavaria in 1857, immigrated to America at 15. Initially working as a salesman in New York, he moved to Oregon seeking greater opportunities. In 1880, he established a successful mercantile business in Goldendale, becoming its youngest mayor. After a devastating fire in 1888, he relocated to Portland, where he co-founded a thriving tobacco business. His success is attributed to his effective customer relations and fair business practices, marking him as a significant figure in Portland’s business community.
Hon. George A. Steel, born on April 22, 1846, in Stafford, Ohio, moved to Portland in 1863 and began his career as a post office clerk. He held various positions, including treasurer of Multnomah County and postmaster of Portland. Active in politics, he served as chairman of the Republican state central committee and later as a state senator. Known for his financial integrity, Steel successfully managed considerable funds and accumulated wealth through real estate investments. He is also involved in the insurance business and serves as president of the Metropolitan Railway Company. He married Eva Pope in 1869.
Mrs. Arethusa E. Smith, born June 12, 1834, in Benton County, Missouri, was the daughter of Daniel Lynn. After various relocations, her family moved to Texas before settling in Oregon following her father’s death from cholera in 1850. In 1852, she married Thomas Smith in the Umpqua Valley, where they raised twelve children. Known for her nurturing nature, Mrs. Smith created a comfortable and refined home over nearly four decades, embodying the spirit of dedication and family life in the region.
Captain Hiram Smith, born in 1810 in Danville, New York, was a prominent Oregon pioneer known for his business acumen and philanthropic spirit. After marrying Hannah M. Stone in 1835, he engaged in various enterprises, including manufacturing fanning mills. He played a significant role in Oregon’s early settlement, aiding immigrants and supplying provisions despite financial losses. During his life, he supported soldiers and their families, establishing a fund for widows. Smith passed away in 1870, leaving behind a legacy of generosity and community support.
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.
Edmond Pearcy, born March 22, 1832, in Virginia, was a pivotal figure in Idaho’s pioneer development. After a brief teaching stint, he journeyed to California in 1852, ultimately settling in Oregon and engaging in various ventures including ranching and mining. He contributed to the Mullan Road’s construction and operated a sawmill for the government. Pearcy became involved in ferry operations in Lewiston and advanced local infrastructure. A dedicated public servant and Jeffersonian Democrat, he married Jane Davis in 1881 and is remembered as a prominent pioneer of northern Idaho.