Biographical Sketch of Ferguson Owen

Ferguson Owen serves as the constable of San Mateo County’s 2nd Township, recognized for his effective crime suppression efforts. Notably, he apprehended notorious highwayman Nick Greelish, using his own investigative skills amidst a large police pursuit. Owen’s bravery also shone when he risked his life to save citizens from an armed assailant. A painter by trade, Owen has dedicated much of his time to his constable duties. Born in Virginia City, Nevada in 1875, he has resided in California for 35 years, with eight years in San Mateo County.

Biography of Hon. Richard P. Bland

Hon. Richard P. Bland, born in Kentucky in 1836, rose from humble beginnings to become a prominent figure in Missouri politics. After receiving his education and practicing law in various locations, he was elected to Congress in 1872, serving for twenty years. His commitment to public service and integrity earned him respect among peers and constituents alike. A dedicated family man, he married Virginia E. Mitchell and fathered five children. Throughout his career, he remained focused on his duties, avoiding intrigue and prioritizing the welfare of his country.

Biography of Richard Z. Johnson

Richard Z. Johnson, born on May 21, 1837, in Akron, Ohio, is a prominent attorney in Idaho’s legal community. Educated at Yale’s Law Department, he began his practice in Minnesota before moving to Idaho. Johnson’s significant contributions include serving as attorney general, member of the territorial council, and shaping Boise’s educational policies. Known for his systematic approach and oratory skills, he has built a successful law practice and owns valuable real estate in Boise. He is deeply committed to public welfare and serves as president of the Idaho State Bar Association.

Biography of Hon. James Gunn

James Gunn, born on March 6, 1843, emerged as a key figure in Idaho’s Populist Party, advocating for its principles in Congress after a notable military service during the Civil War. Initially a Republican, he switched affiliations in 1892 due to party disagreements and was instrumental in organizing the Populists in Idaho. Gunn’s political career included serving in the Idaho Senate and editing the influential *Sentinel* newspaper. Elected to Congress in 1896, he has since made a significant impact, reflecting his commitment to the party and the welfare of his constituents.

Biography of Edward J. Curtis

Hon. Edward J. Curtis, a distinguished lawyer and statesman, played a pivotal role in Idaho’s history. Born in 1827 in Massachusetts, he studied law before moving west during the gold rush, eventually settling in Idaho. Curtis served in various political roles, including territorial secretary and acting governor, while championing initiatives like the establishment of the Territorial Library. An eloquent advocate, he was respected for his legal expertise and public service. Curtis passed away on December 29, 1895, leaving a legacy of honor and dedication to his state.

Biography of Malcolm McGregor

The Vendome Hotel in Weiser, opened in February 1891 by Malcolm McGregor and Coakley, has gained a strong reputation for hospitality. The two-story brick structure features twenty-eight well-appointed rooms, offering a comfortable stay for guests. Malcolm McGregor, born in Nova Scotia in 1845, previously worked as a machinist and in mining, later managing the Idaho Hotel. Known for his genial disposition, he is a committed community member and investor, contributing to the local welfare and enjoying widespread recognition in the hotel industry.

Biography of Isaac F. Smith

Isaac F. Smith, born on July 28, 1854, in Butte County, California, serves as the clerk of the district court and auditor of Washington County. He was educated in Nevada and California, later contributing to the region’s development through mining, mercantile, and agriculture. After relocating to Weiser in 1880, Smith became actively involved in public service, being re-elected multiple times. Married to Harriet Hunt, he has six children and is active in several fraternal organizations and the Episcopal Church, holding a unique stance as a silver Republican.

Biography of George B. Hill

George B. Hill, born on August 28, 1843, in Cherry Valley, New York, was a prominent businessman in Idaho and a veteran of the Civil War. He served in the Seventy-sixth New York Volunteer Infantry, achieving the rank of first lieutenant and participating in numerous battles. After the war, he pursued a career in business, eventually founding a successful general store in Bellevue, Idaho. A staunch advocate for the Populist Party, he served as mayor several times and was a respected orator on Decoration Day. Hill married Elizabeth Wheeler in 1874, and they had one daughter, Grace.

Biography of John W. Murphy

John W. Murphy, born December 9, 1831, in Franklin, Ohio, is recognized as a significant pioneer and contributor to the development of Union County. He engaged in various trades, including as a millwright and miner, and later became a successful orchardist, cultivating cherries and apples on his farm. Married in 1867, he had two children and gained respect for his integrity and commitment to education, serving as a school director. Additionally, Murphy faced numerous conflicts with Native Americans, proving his resilience and earning their respect.

Biography of George Gumbert

George Gumbert, born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on June 11, 1835, is the pioneering butcher of Boise, Idaho, starting his business in 1864. After moving west to California and Nevada, he settled in Boise when it was a small settlement and established a meat market that he continually operated, earning community trust through his integrity. A Democrat and a county commissioner, he married Mary C. Turner in 1865, with whom he had one daughter. He is also an active member and treasurer of the Knights of Pythias.

Biography of Charles D. Armstrong

Charles Dexter Armstrong, born on January 22, 1834, in Knox County, Ohio, was a pioneering figure in Latah County, Idaho, and a significant contributor to local agriculture. He journeyed west in 1859, initially mining in California before settling in Latah County in 1883, where he developed a successful 160-acre farm. A devoted family man, Armstrong had sixteen children with his wife, Mary E. Johnson. He actively promoted education in his community and was a lifelong Democrat known for his integrity and commitment to neighborly welfare.

Biographical Sketch of David Meacham

David Meacham, born on May 3, 1835, in Genesee County, New York, learned carpentry before moving to California in 1858. He traveled with General Harney, assisting in the aftermath of the Mountain Meadow Massacre and contributing to the memorial for the victims. After settling in Bloomfield and later San Bernardino, he made significant contributions to local construction, including building Riverside’s first house. Aside from a year spent in Virginia City, Nevada, Meacham has lived in California, known for his integrity and character.

Biography of Edwin Caldwell

Edwin Caldwell, born on September 13, 1824, in Putnam County, New York, pursued a life of entrepreneurship and public service. He moved to Wisconsin in 1846, establishing mills with his brother before seeking fortune in California during the gold rush. After returning to Wisconsin, he transitioned to St. Paul and then to Nevada, where he managed the Yellow Jacket mine. A pioneer in Riverside, he invested in agriculture, particularly citrus, and contributed significantly to the community’s development. Caldwell was active in local governance and a devoted Congregationalist. He married Martha A. Hayt, with whom he had two children.

Biography of W. Ladd

W. Ladd, born in Ontario in 1826, journeyed to California in 1851, initially mining in Virginia City. After a brief return to Michigan, he ventured west again in 1859, where he continued mining, worked as a millwright, and later became a contractor. In 1882, he settled in Redlands, cultivating a successful orange orchard. He was married twice, with three daughters from his second marriage to Mary Quillin. Ladd passed away in 1886, leaving behind a legacy of hard work and perseverance in California’s burgeoning landscape.

Biographical Sketch of Fred Furth

Fred Furth, born in Germany in 1839, immigrated to America in 1855 and settled in Spokane Falls in 1883 after various ventures in California and Nevada. He established a successful business selling saddles and harnesses. Furth held several public offices, including county clerk and mayor of Spokane Falls in 1889, winning with a significant majority. He is a strong advocate for Spokane Falls, deeming it a key location in Washington, with exceptional soil, climate, and resources.

Biography of Hon. Orvin Kincaid

The Hon. Orvin Kincaid was born in Grafton, New Hampshire, in 1821. His life journey began with an upbringing in a blacksmith family before he ventured westward during the gold rush. He traversed various states, engaging in mining and missionary work among the Creek Indians. Eventually, he settled in Washington’s Skagit County, where he became a significant figure in local politics, helping to establish the county and serving as a legislator. Kincaid ultimately chose Mount Vernon as his home, contributing greatly to his community.