Weiser Idaho

Washington County Its Towns, Resources, Etc.

Washington County, situated in western Idaho, spans diverse agricultural and resource-rich landscapes, boasting a population of over 5,000. Initially focused on stock-raising and placer-mining, settlers discovered the area’s capacity for varied crops, particularly fruits and grains. While agriculture remains dominant, timber and coal resources are significant, with indications of petroleum also present. Salubria Valley serves as a central hub for agricultural activities. The county’s favorable climate supports extensive farming, and ongoing railway developments promise enhanced commerce and connectivity to neighboring regions.

Biography of Cornelius G. Morehead

Cornelius G. Morehead, born on June 26, 1865, in Linn County, Oregon, comes from a pioneering family that settled in the Willamette Valley in 1848. His father, a millwright, built Oregon’s first mill in Salem. After relocating several times, Cornelius established his own farm near Nyssa in 1901, where he cultivated alfalfa and raised cattle. He married Elizabeth Ehrgood in 1899, with whom he had two daughters. An engaged Republican, Morehead actively participated in local and state affairs, embodying the progressive spirit of Oregonian citizens.

Biography of R. D. Greer

R. D. Greer, born in Ohio in 1850, has been a significant figure in Malheur County’s development. After moving to Nebraska in 1866, he returned to the West in 1875, eventually settling in Emmett, Idaho. He later engaged in the lumber industry in Weiser and operated a successful mercantile business in Ontario before moving to his current homestead near Owyhee. Greer is noted for his involvement in local progress, including the establishment of the Owyhee ditch, and is an active community member alongside his wife, Alice.

Biography of Thomas C. Galloway

Thomas C. Galloway, the first settler of Weiser, Idaho, established his residence there over thirty-six years ago. Born in Wisconsin in 1837, he was integral to the town’s development, engaging in various businesses, including stock-raising and mining. He built Weiser’s first structures and played a crucial role in developing its irrigation system. Galloway served in local government and has been recognized as a significant figure in Idaho’s history, enjoying a prosperous life with his wife, Mary, and their nine children.

Biography of Solomon M. Jeffreys

Solomon M. Jeffreys, born in Missouri in 1835, was a key figure in the development of Idaho, particularly in Weiser, where he made his home. A pioneer of the Pacific coast, he witnessed the transition from sparsely populated lands to agricultural settlements. Jeffreys engaged in cattle ranching and ventured into mining, amassing significant wealth. He contributed to local infrastructure, established a flour mill, and served in local government, demonstrating commitment to community service and development throughout his life. He had two marriages and several children.

Biography of Augustus G. Upton, A. M., D. D.

Dr. Augustus G. Upton, president of Weiser College and Academy since 1895, has significantly impacted the educational and moral framework of Weiser in just over three years. Born in Massachusetts in 1851, he was educated at Oberlin College, graduating in theology in 1876. Upton served as a pastor in various states and was involved with the Congregational Home Missionary Society before relocating to Colorado for health reasons. He and his wife, Lucy H. Metcalf, contribute to both academia and their community, earning great respect for their dedication and integrity.

Biography of Joseph D. Daly

Joseph D. Daly serves as the tax collector and assessor in Ada County, Idaho, demonstrating loyalty and diligence that has earned him the respect of the community. Born on January 13, 1850, in Putnam County, Missouri, he grew up on a farm and moved to Idaho in 1887, where he continues to actively manage a 12-acre fruit farm. Daly’s family boasted a strong military background, with six sons serving in the Union army, reflecting their commitment to national service and settlement in the West.

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 E. M. Barton

E. M. Barton, born December 16, 1856, in Missouri, is a prominent businessman in Weiser, Idaho. He manages the popular Weiser Hotel, established in 1897, known for its modern amenities and strong reputation. The Bartons, involved in mining and stock-raising, own significant land and successful quartz mines. E. M. is a community-focused leader, serving as a bank director and engaging in local fraternal organizations. He is married to Carrie Grab, with whom he has three children. His integrity and business acumen contribute to his success in Washington County.

Biography of James B. Coakley

The Vendome Hotel, established by James B. Coakley and Malcolm McGregor in February 1891, quickly gained a strong reputation among travelers for its comfort and quality. Coakley, originally from San Francisco, moved to Idaho in 1875, where he worked as a bookkeeper and later engaged in merchandising. His partnership with McGregor in operating the hotel reflects their entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to community welfare. Coakley is active in local fraternal organizations and has been a respected figure in the region’s development.

Biography of Frank Harris

Frank Harris, born on June 20, 1854, in Placerville, California, is a prominent lawyer and Idaho state senator. Educated in California, he began his legal career under notable attorneys before moving to Weiser in 1880. Harris has made significant contributions to law and politics, serving in the 1889 Idaho constitutional convention and as a state senator starting in 1896. He is involved with the Knights of Pythias and has interests in mining. Harris is esteemed for his thorough legal preparation and persuasive arguments, maintaining a successful law practice.

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 Thomas M. Jeffreys

Thomas M. Jeffreys, born on April 7, 1852, in Yamhill County, Oregon, became a prominent figure in Washington County, Idaho, serving as probate judge and superintendent of public instruction. The eldest son of pioneering parents, he pursued education at Kentucky University, graduating in 1876. Jeffreys worked as a teacher and in merchandising before entering public service, where he became a recognized Democratic leader. He married M. G. Jewell in 1881 and continues to contribute to his community’s moral and educational development while raising a family in Weiser.

Biography of L. A. York

L. A. York, born on March 13, 1866, in Lewiston, Maine, is the prominent editor and proprietor of the Owyhee Avalanche in Silver City, Idaho. His family heritage includes Scotch and English ancestry, with roots in Maine. After working in various capacities in the printing industry across multiple states, he took over the Avalanche office in 1894. York is known for his editorial skills and published a notable Historical Descriptive and Commercial Directory of Owyhee County. He is married to Catharine Brady and has three children.

Biography of Columbus M. Hixon

Columbus M. Hixon, born June 3, 1854, in Ohio, exemplified integrity and public spirit, earning his election as county treasurer of Washington County through a transparent record and business acumen. Moving to Idaho in 1877, he engaged in education and then stock-raising, contributing to the state’s economy. An active community member, he was the first postmaster of Weiser and participated in Idaho’s inaugural state legislature. Married to Adrietta Applegate, they raised two children and remained involved in their church and local governance.

Biography of James Colson

James Colson, born on October 23, 1834, in Indiana, was a pioneering farmer in Salubria, Idaho, after arriving in 1864. He initially engaged in mining in California and Colorado before settling in Idaho, where he successfully raised cattle, horses, and hogs on his 160-acre farm. A silver Republican, Colson preferred focusing on his business over political office. He married Margaret Ann Taylor in 1856, fathering ten children. The couple were devoted members of the Methodist church, earning respect in their community.

Biography of William F. Sommercamp

William F. Sommercamp, born February 16, 1860, in California, was a prominent merchant in Weiser, Idaho. His father, a German immigrant, was a miner and stock-raiser in Owyhee County. William’s education began in Silver City and continued at St. Augustine College and Healds Business College. With extensive experience in the mercantile industry, he established a successful general merchandise business in Weiser in 1891. Married to Alice Harley, they had three children. Sommercamp was active in local politics and fraternal organizations, serving as treasurer of Owyhee County for three terms.

Biography of Joseph R. Numbers, M. D.

Dr. Joseph R. Numbers, born on May 30, 1864, in Lexington, Ohio, is a prominent physician in Weiser, Idaho, since 1888. He graduated from the Eclectic Medical Institute in Cincinnati and initially practiced in Kansas and Minneapolis. Noted for his medical expertise, Dr. Numbers is a respected member of the Idaho Medical Society and the National Medical Society. He married Mary B. Swartz in 1887, and they have three children. A dedicated community member, he is also involved in several fraternal organizations.

Biography of James A. Gerwick

James A. Gerwick, a notable figure in Weiser’s commercial sector, has established a successful harness and saddlery business, gaining a loyal clientele throughout Washington County. Originally from Butler County, Pennsylvania, Gerwick transitioned from sheep farming to retail, culminating in a well-stocked brick store. His commitment to integrity, customer satisfaction, and fair pricing has contributed to his success. Married to Laura Monroe, they have three children and maintain a welcoming home. Gerwick is involved in social organizations and identifies politically as a Republican.

Biography of W. B. Kurtz

W. B. Kurtz, born on November 1, 1846, in Berks County, Pennsylvania, is a prominent figure in Weiser’s industrial landscape as the proprietor of the Weiser flouring mill, established in 1890. A German descent miller by trade, he honed his skills in Illinois before moving to Idaho in 1878. Kurtz’s commitment to ethical business practices and community service is reflected in his active role in the Congregational church and local fraternal organizations. He is married to Lenora B. Babcock and has one daughter, Hazel.