Spokane Falls Washington

Leading Citizens of Spokane Falls Washington

Among the prominent citizens of Spokane Falls, J. N. Glover stands out as the city’s founder, establishing himself in 1873 and contributing significantly as a sawmill owner, contractor, banker, and mayor. Horace L. Cutter, a pivotal figure in the First National Bank, and E. J. Briekell, of the Traders National Bank, also played vital roles in the area’s development. Others, like Col. D. P. Jenkins, J. D. Sherwood, and W. Pettet, have also notably advanced Spokane through various enterprises, enhancing its growth and prosperity.

Biographical Sketch of H. W. Stratton

H. W. Stratton was ordained in 1866 and began his ministry in Kansas before moving to Oregon in 1871, where he united Presbyterian and Congregational churches in Albany. He organized the first Presbyterian churches in eastern Washington, including Weston and Walla Walla, and established a church in Boise, Idaho. After serving in Seattle, he settled in Spokane Falls, where he focused on agriculture and church service. Residing at Prospect Place, he enjoys a fulfilling domestic life near his family while contributing to the community.

Biography of Paul F. Mohr

Paul F. Mohr, born in Cincinnati in 1849, played a crucial role in developing Spokane Falls’ railroads, notably the Spokane Palouse and Spokane Idaho Railways, completed in 1886. Educated in civil engineering in Germany, he worked with the Pennsylvania Company before returning to Cincinnati. His partnership with distinguished figures led to significant investments in Spokane’s rail infrastructure. Mohr’s expertise in construction and route selection, especially across the Cascade Mountains, established him as a prominent figure in Washington’s development and made him a successful businessman in the region.

Biographical Sketch of J. N. Gilbranson

J.N. Gilbranson, born in 1834 in Christiana, Norway, immigrated to the United States in 1854. Initially residing in Missouri, he worked in contracting and building before returning to Chicago. In 1880, he moved to Minneapolis to establish a sash and door factory. By 1886, he relocated to Spokane Falls, where he became a prominent figure in the community, contributing to its development. Married to Anna Johnson, he has one daughter and is recognized for his industriousness and enterprise.

Biography of Dr. John H. Kennedy

Dr. John H. Kennedy, born in Iowa in 1850, pursued medicine after his family moved to Oregon in 1862. He graduated with honors from Willamette University in 1871 and established a successful medical practice throughout the Inland Empire. Despite personal tragedies, including the loss of his first wife and three children in 1877, he remarried in 1880 and had three more children. Dr. Kennedy’s early life included notable experiences, such as assisting in a deadly Indian attack during his family’s westward migration. He currently resides in Weston, Oregon, where he continues to build his medical practice.

Biography of Frank Johnson

Frank Johnson, born in Holland in 1844, emigrated to New York with his mother in 1852 and began his career as a carpenter in Buffalo. He served valiantly in the Civil War and later trained under architect Frederick Scott. In 1880, seeking a new life in the West, he settled in Washington Territory and established a successful contracting business. Johnson gained renown for his craftsmanship, overseeing significant projects including military quarters and local buildings, becoming a respected figure in Spokane Falls for his integrity and skill.

Biography of Chester D. Ide

Chester D. Ide, a significant figure in Spokane Falls, Washington, was born in Vermont in 1830 and initially settled in Wisconsin. After a long journey westward, he began his career in Dayton as a carpenter before claiming land in Mondovi. Recognizing Spokane Falls’ potential, he shifted his focus to real estate, contributing to the city’s development with significant property investments and public benefactions, including donations to Spokane College and local churches. Ide’s contributions have been pivotal to the city’s growth and prosperity.

Biographical Sketch of George F. Schorr

George F. Schorr is the influential editor of the Northwest Tribune, the oldest newspaper in Eastern Washington, established in 1879. Originally from California, Schorr honed his skills in the printing trade after attending the University of California, Berkeley. He joined the Tribune in 1884, enhancing its reputation with a focus on agriculture and impartial news delivery. In 1885, he married Carrie Bried, a fellow graduate. Schorr’s editorial leadership has significantly contributed to the paper’s financial and literary success while serving the farming community.

Biography of W. H. Taylor

W. H. Taylor, born in Michigan in 1851, transitioned from farming to journalism, becoming foreman at a leading paper before publishing the Daily Evening Argus. Discovering opportunities in Salt Lake City, he took control of the Tribune, elevating it to a prominent status and significantly impacting the local Mormon hierarchy. After advocating for American principles in Utah, he settled in Washington, where he served as mayor of Spokane Falls and became president of the Spokane National Bank. A notable businessman and community figure, Taylor exemplifies committed citizenship and leadership.

Biography of Edgar J. Webster

Edgar J. Webster, born in Michigan in 1847, is notable for his military service during the Civil War, where he was injured at Cold Harbor. After studying law, he served as private secretary to Thomas M. Cooley and worked as a U.S. deputy marshal. Following a series of career changes, including law practice in California, he settled in Spokane Falls, Washington Territory, in 1883. There, he contributed significantly to local education and real estate, becoming a prominent figure in the community.

Biography of Rev. Thomas G. Watson

Rev. Thomas G. Watson, born in 1836 in Geneva, New York, significantly contributed to community moral progress through his extensive ministry. After graduating from Hobert College, he served in various locations including Cayuga County and Staten Island before moving to Waukesha, Wisconsin. In 1883, he established the First Presbyterian Church in Spokane Falls, which grew rapidly. Watson was also instrumental in local development, participating in initiatives such as the waterworks and founding a public library association. He had two marriages and three children.