Portland Oregon

Biography of George H. Williams

Judge George H. Williams, a prominent figure in Oregon’s history, served in the U.S. Senate during a pivotal era of reconstruction following the Civil War. Born in New York in 1823, he held significant positions, including Chief Justice of Oregon Territory and U.S. Attorney General under President Grant. Known for his steadfast anti-slavery stance and influence on national legislation, Williams played a crucial role in shaping policies that restored order in Southern states. His legacy reflects his commitment to Oregon and the nation, marked by wisdom and integrity throughout his career.

Biography of Frank Dekum

Frank Dekum, born in Bavaria in 1829, emigrated to America at eight and settled in Illinois. With limited formal education, he apprenticed as a confectioner and moved to Oregon in 1853. He co-founded the first fruit and confectionery store in Portland, later accumulating wealth through real estate and banks. Active in civic affairs, he promoted education and local culture, such as introducing German songbirds to Oregon. Married with eight children, Dekum’s integrity and community involvement made him a respected figure in Portland’s financial landscape.

Biography of Solomon Hirsch

Solomon Hirsch, born in Germany in 1839, emigrated to America at fourteen and ultimately settled in Oregon. He was a prominent businessman and influential politician, co-founding a successful wholesale dry goods firm in Portland. Hirsch served in the Oregon Legislature, advocating for educational and financial reforms, and was elected State Senator three times, where he notably enacted the Hirsch Assignment Law. Appointed as Envoy Extraordinary and Minister Plenipotentiary to Turkey by President Harrison, his career exemplifies the potential for success in America through hard work and conviction. He married Josephine Mayer in 1870.

Biography of Earl C. Bronaugh

Earl C. Bronaugh, born in Virginia in 1831, moved to Tennessee with his family as a child. After studying law under his uncle, he was admitted to the bar in 1851. His career included roles as a clerk and circuit judge in Arkansas, and he served in the Confederate army during the Civil War. In 1868, he relocated to Portland, Oregon, where he established a successful law practice. A skilled trial lawyer, Bronaugh was also known for his strong religious convictions and commitment to his family. He married Araminta Payne and had nine children.

Biography of Erasmus D. Shattuck

Judge E. D. Shattuck, born on December 31, 1824, in Vermont, had a distinguished career marked by dedication to education and law. After teaching and studying law, he moved to Oregon in 1853, where he served in various capacities, including county superintendent, probate judge, and delegate to the constitutional convention. A respected judge on the Supreme and Circuit Courts, Shattuck was known for his integrity, analytical skills, and commitment to public service. His political affiliations evolved from Whig to Republican, and later to independent and Democratic allegiances.

Biography of Joseph Schoewaiter Smith

Joseph Schoewaiter Smith, born in Pennsylvania in 1824, became a prominent figure in the early history of Oregon and Washington. After an arduous journey to Oregon in 1844, he studied law while supporting himself through various jobs. Smith held several significant positions including prosecuting attorney and U.S. District Attorney, and he was elected to Congress. Notable for his advocacy of Oregon’s interests, particularly in railroad development, he also contributed to local industry. Despite health challenges, he left a legacy of public service and strong community values before his death in 1884.

Biography of Rodney Glisan, M.D.

Rodney Glisan, M.D., born on January 29, 1827, in Maryland, was a physician and prominent figure in Portland, Oregon. After graduating from the University of Maryland in 1849, he served as a U.S. Army medical officer for eleven years, participating in the Indian wars. Glisan later practiced medicine in Portland, where he contributed to medical education and authored “Text Book of Modern Midwifery.” His active involvement in medical organizations and numerous publications established him as a respected figure, and he maintained a prosperous and fulfilling life dedicated to his profession and community.

Biography of Joseph Alfred Strowbridge

Joseph Alfred Strowbridge, born in 1835 in Pennsylvania, faced significant challenges after moving to Oregon in 1851. He became a teacher at fourteen but shifted to entrepreneurship—initially in fruit shipping, later in the boot and shoe business. Despite setbacks, including a bank failure, he prospered in various trades. A community leader and a Republican politician, Strowbridge invested wisely in real estate, contributing to Portland’s growth. Married with five children, he was actively involved in civic and charitable organizations, promoting public welfare and education.

Biography of Charles B. Bellinger

Judge Charles B. Bellinger was born in Illinois in 1839 and moved to Oregon at eight. After educational pursuits, he began practicing law in Salem, then shifted to journalism, editing a Democratic paper. His political involvement and editorial stance significantly influenced the Democratic party in Oregon. Bellinger served as a military aide during the Modoc war and was appointed Clerk of the Supreme Court before becoming Circuit Judge. Renowned for his legal acumen, he had a successful law career post-judiciary, earning recognition for his advocacy skills and sharp intellect.

Biography of Lewis Fleischner

Lewis Fleischner, born in 1829 in Bohemia, immigrated to the United States at fifteen. After working in various cities, he established a successful mercantile business in Albany, Oregon, and later in Portland as part of L. Fleischner & Co. He became known for his integrity and business acumen, contributing significantly to the state’s financial management as State Treasurer. An active philanthropist, he supported community initiatives and made provisions for his hometown in Bohemia. Fleischner’s influential career and personal character earned him widespread respect in Portland.

Biography of Henry W. Corbett

Henry Winslow Corbett, born in Massachusetts in 1827, played a pivotal role in Portland’s evolution into Oregon’s financial hub. Arriving in Portland in 1851, he established a successful mercantile business and later transitioned to wholesale hardware. A prominent advocate for regional development, he supported transportation improvements and was instrumental in the Northern Pacific Railroad’s formation. His political career included a notable term as a U.S. Senator, where he championed fiscal responsibility. Corbett’s contributions to both public and private enterprises reflect his commitment to Portland’s growth and welfare.

Biography of Col. W.W. Chapman

Colonel W.W. Chapman, born in Virginia in 1808, played a pivotal role in the development of Portland and the Pacific Northwest. As an early pioneer, he significantly influenced Iowa’s foundational policies before moving to Oregon. Over nearly fifty years, Chapman’s integrity and fierce advocacy advanced the city’s political and business landscape. He actively participated in events such as the Indian Wars, legislative efforts, and advocating for railroad connections, ensuring Oregon’s economic growth. His legacy as a dedicated public servant is vital to the region’s history.

Biography of Matthew P. Deady

Matthew P. Deady, a prominent jurist in Oregon’s history, arrived in the state in 1849, quickly establishing himself as a leading legal and political figure. He served as Associate Justice of the Territorial Supreme Court and played a vital role in drafting Oregon’s Constitution. His judicial tenure was marked by integrity and a commitment to education, reflected in his leadership of the Portland Library Association and contributions to the University of Oregon. Deady’s legacy encompasses significant legal reforms and a deep impact on Oregon’s development and governance.

Biography of Daniel H. Lownsdale

Daniel H. Lownsdale, born in Kentucky in 1803, was a notable pioneer who played a vital role in the development of Portland, Oregon. He married Ruth Overfilled at age 23 and later relocated to Indiana before moving to Oregon amid the excitement of the Oregon question. Lownsdale purchased land in Portland in 1848 and promoted growth by keeping property prices low. He served in various public roles and contributed to the community, ultimately witnessing Portland’s rise as a key metropolis before his death in 1862.

Odell, James – Obituary

James Odell, aged 74, passed away on November 14, 1909, in Portland, Oregon. He was a resident of Union and known for his successful stock-raising endeavors in Rye Valley. Survived by his wife Minnie, daughter Mrs. Walter Swackhamer, and son James, his death, resulting from prolonged illness, was anticipated. The community extends its condolences to his family in this time of loss.