Nyssa Oregon Genealogy – Access Genealogy

Pioneer Days in Malheur County

“Pioneer Days in Malheur County” by Jacob Ray Gregg is a comprehensive historical account that seeks to perpetuate the memory of prominent pioneers and preserve an authentic history of Malheur County, Oregon. This privately printed volume, published in 1950 by L. L. Morrison in Los Angeles, spans 442 pages and provides a broad narrative of the region’s history, covering significant events and developments from the mid-19th century onwards. Key locations discussed include Ontario, Vale, Nyssa, Westfall, Harper, Juntura, Ironside, Brogan, and Jamieson. The work also delves into critical historical topics such as the Bannock War and the Overland Trail, alongside accounts of early pioneer life.

Biography of Herbert F. Ward

Herbert F. Ward, born on April 12, 186, in Quebec, Canada, became a prominent farmer and influential figure in Oregon, notably as a key promoter of the Owyhee ditch. After leaving home at twenty-two, he initially worked as a locomotive fireman before transitioning to sheep farming upon arriving in Oregon in 1880. In 1894, he homesteaded a quarter section near Nyssa, cultivating a successful farm. He married Sylvinia McConnell in 1896, and they had one son, George P. Ward, in 1898.

Biographical Sketch of James T. Davis

James T. Davis, a prominent figure in Malheur County, Oregon, was born on October 25, 1850, in Missouri. His family journeyed westward, settling in various locations before ultimately establishing a farm near Nyssa. Known for his integrity and strong work ethic, Davis has transformed his 120-acre property into a prosperous enterprise. After the death of his first wife, Lulu Brinnon, he remarried in 1898. An active political participant, he supports the Democratic Party and is regarded as a respected community member.

Biographical Sketch of Joseph C. Kelley

Joseph C. Kelley, born in 1870 in Idaho City, Idaho, was the son of pioneer parents who moved to Oregon shortly after his father’s death. Growing up near Nyssa, he eventually learned the saddler’s trade and established a harness and saddle store in Vale, which blossomed into a thriving business. Elected as county treasurer in 1900, Kelley was successful in his political career, earning a renomination. He is also a devoted member of the Odd Fellows and Masonic lodges, as well as a proud Bachelor.

Biographical Sketch of George G. Brown

George G. Brown, born on January 22, 1850, in Platt County, Missouri, emerged as a prominent farmer near Nyssa, Oregon. He grew up in Kansas and Missouri, where he experienced the tensions of the pro-slavery era. After marrying Margaret D. Cary in 1874, they relocated to Texas before journeying to Idaho in 1888. Brown cultivated a successful homestead, utilizing water from the Owyhee ditch and establishing a thriving farm. A member of the K. of P. and a Democratic activist, he raised a large family and contributed to his community.

Biographical Sketch of Henry P. Tietsort

Henry P. Tietsort, born on October 14, 1829, in Cass County, Michigan, exemplified the spirit of the western pioneers. After a challenging youth, he journeyed across the plains to California in 1859, engaging in freighting and mining before settling near Nyssa in 1892. Tietsort contributed to local agriculture by developing his 43-acre farm and participated in the Pitt River and Selay Indian Wars. He married Lydia Carman in 1880, raising several children. Tietsort’s life reflects resilience and dedication to the frontier.

Conklin, Eugene – Obituary

Eugene B. Conklin passed away in a Portland hospital from a heart attack after recently exhibiting in Malheur County. Born in Ohio in 1865, he moved to Oregon in 1888, where he had a notable career in education, teaching in several locations and later serving as a school superintendent in Ontario. He transitioned to the insurance business after a period of farming. He is survived by his widow, four children, and three brothers. Funeral services are scheduled for Saturday in Ontario.

Clark, Emma Mrs. – Obituary

Emma Clark, aged 57, passed away on January 21, 1926, in Nyssa, Oregon. Born on March 18, 1868, in Fairview, Minnesota, she moved to Union in 1884, dedicating nearly 40 years to teaching. A respected educator and active member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, Emma was also involved in the G. R. V. Chapter O.E.S. No. 49. She is survived by three brothers and a nephew. Her funeral was held at the Methodist church in Union, where she was interred beside her parents.

Clark, Emma (Bedwell) Mrs. – Obituary

Emma Clark, formerly Emma Bidwell, passed away unexpectedly on January 21, 1926, in Nyssa, Idaho, after appearing in good health that morning. She was the sister of Frank, Homer, and Chet Bidwell and had spent much of her life in North Powder, where she taught in local schools. Her funeral was held on January 30 at the Methodist church in Union, with the Order of the Eastern Star participating in the services. She was laid to rest in Union cemetery.

Diaz, Amelia Garcia – Obituary

Amelia Garcia Diaz, 80, of Ontario and formerly of La Grande, passed away on August 19. A viewing will be held Thursday at Loveland Funeral Chapel, followed by a Rosary and a Resurrection Mass on Friday at Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Church, with burial at Hillcrest East Cemetery. Born on September 29, 1925, in Texas, she was a dedicated community member, the first president of the Hispanic PTA in Nyssa, and an avid seamstress. She is survived by her children and siblings.

Robertson, John – Obituary

John M. Robertson, a well-known resident of Nyssa, passed away unexpectedly from a heart attack at 60 years old. His sudden death prompted local businesses to close for his funeral held on Tuesday at the Methodist Community Church, attended by many friends and family. Born in Putnam County, MO, Robertson moved to Nyssa in 1912, engaging in various local enterprises. He is survived by his wife, Mary, and their daughter, along with other relatives who are mourning his loss.

Gilbert, Clyde J. – Obituary

Clyde J. Gilbert, aged 85, passed away on January 26, 1971, at Nyssa Memorial Hospital. A retired farmer, he had been a resident of Nyssa for many years. Born on August 5, 1885, in Missouri, he is survived by his nephew, Frank Wood, and niece, Mrs. Glen Nichols, both from Emmett. Funeral services took place on January 29 at Lienkaemper Chapel, led by Rev. Robert Manley, with interment at Owyhee.

James, Mary Ann Mahoney Mrs. – Obituary

Mary Ann James, 60, passed away on June 26, 2005, at the Good Shepherd Medical Center in Hermiston. A former resident of Baker City, she will be interred in Hermiston Cemetery. Born on December 14, 1944, in Nyssa, to John Edward and Lucile N. Stephens Mahoney, she graduated from Baker High School in 1963. Mary married Leo James in 1963 and worked for over 15 years at the Hinkle Hotel before retiring in 2002. She enjoyed flowers, fishing, and traveling.

Mitchell, Dorothea Mae Holman Lewis Mrs.

Dorothea Mae Holman Lewis Mitchell, 87, of Nyssa and a former resident of Baker City, passed away on April 25, 2005. Born on May 19, 1917, she was a dedicated mother of eight and established a private kindergarten in Nyssa, fostering a love for music and education. After losing her first husband in 1961, she later married Tharvel Tom Mitchell. Dorothea was active in her church and served as a guide at the Boise Temple. She is survived by numerous family members, including children, grandchildren, and stepchildren.

Hall, Virginia Arlene Van Cleave Mrs. – Obituary

Virginia Arlene (Van Cleave) Hall, age 68, passed away on June 1, 2005, in Nyssa, Oregon. Born on March 9, 1937, in Baker City, she was a longtime resident of Nyssa and retired from Heinz Frozen Foods in 2003. Virginia is remembered for her love of family, camping, fishing, and her small dogs. She is survived by her husband, Wes Hall, two daughters, six grandchildren, and numerous great-grandchildren. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Foundation.

Doyle, Flora F. Shelton Mrs. – Obituary

Flora F. Doyle, 88, passed away on March 21, 2005, in Baker City, Oregon. Born on November 4, 1916, in Unity, she was the daughter of Jasper N. and Olive Shelton, and raised in Nyssa. Flora married George Doyle in 1934, and they relocated from Bend to Baker City in 1973. A homemaker and member of Calvary Baptist Church, she enjoyed reading and gardening. She is survived by her two sons, Michael and James Doyle, and numerous relatives. Funeral services are scheduled for March 25 at Coles Funeral Home.

Chapman, Mary Marie Mattingly Mrs. – Obituary

Mary Marie Chapman, 88, of Baker City, Oregon, passed away on April 9, 2004. She was born on May 12, 1915, in Vale, Oregon, and graduated high school in Nyssa. Mary married Arthur Chapman in 1934 and raised two children, Charles and Laura, while living in Huntington during WWII. They moved to Baker City in 1946, where she worked as an office manager. She is survived by her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and was preceded in death by her husband, Arthur.

Remington, Keith Lavern – Obituary

Keith Lavern Remington, 73, of Fruitland, Idaho, and Sumpter, passed away on April 28, 2004. He was born on November 29, 1930, in Big Springs, Nebraska. Keith had a passion for flying, cooking, and community service, operating the Polar Bear Cafe and the Sumpter General Store. He was deeply loved by family and friends, known for his humor and kindness. He is survived by his wife, children, grandchildren, and siblings. His funeral will take place at West Valley Free Methodist Church.

Mahoney, Lucille Nadine Stephens Mrs. – Obituary

Lucille Nadine Mahoney, age 78, passed away on January 20, 2003, in Boise, Idaho. A Huntington resident for many years, her life celebration will be held at Coles Funeral Home. Born on October 14, 1924, in Missouri, she married John Edward Mahoney in 1939 and had a family that moved between Nyssa, Huntington, and Baker City. She is survived by her children, numerous grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Memorial contributions are suggested to local medical facilities in her honor.

Adams, Darline Rose – Obituary

Darline Rose Adams, aged 68, passed away at her home in Nyssa on March 3, 2003. Her memorial service is scheduled for March 6 at 10 a.m. at the Lienkaemper Chapel in Nyssa, with a private family inurnment to follow at a later date. Arrangements are being handled by the Lienkaemper Chapel.