Wingville Oregon

History of the First Baptist Church, Baker City Oregon

The First Baptist Church in Baker City, established on December 7, 1874, by Rev. L. H. Boothe and nine founding members, has a rich history marked by dedicated leadership and community involvement. Rev. E. P. Waltz became its first pastor in 1875, serving ten years. A house of worship was completed in 1885, and various organizations, like the Ladies’ Aid Society, contributed significantly to its growth. By 1892, the church had a membership of 157, reflecting its vital role in the community.

Baker Valley Oregon Churches

Prior to 1868, Baker County had no resident ministers, though various ministers visited. The first Methodist preacher, Rev. John Flynn, arrived in 1864-5, followed by others, with Rev. F. Elliott forming the first Methodist class in 1868. The church grew significantly, culminating in a new building established in 1874. By March 1893, the church boasted about 170 members, an active Sunday school, and plans for further expansion. Additionally, Methodist congregations began forming in nearby Sumpter Valley and Pocahontas around the same period, contributing to the rich religious landscape of Baker Valley.

Baker County Oregon Sketches

On October 29, 1862, Sydney Abell convened Baker County’s first court, marking the start of legal proceedings in the region. The docket revealed a variety of cases, from peace petitions to petty larceny. The county court, beginning its term on November 3, 1862, addressed essential community matters including road establishments and public charges. Significant cases emerged, including the conviction of Hyde and Quigley for theft, marking the county’s first felony convictions. Early settlers like John Wilson and David Littlefield played crucial roles in developing the area.

Wingville Cemetery, Baker County Oregon

A historical record of Wingville Cemetery in Baker County, Oregon, traces its 1878 founding after a diphtheria outbreak, notes land purchases by the Wingville Grange and I.O.O.F. Lodge, and describes the cemetery’s poor condition and many unmarked graves. The article also lists transcribed burials and mentions several nearby private and unmarked family graves.

Ficklin, Fetna Ann – Obituary

Fetna Ann Ficklin passed away on August 24, 1890, at the age of 70 in Wingville, Oregon, after a brief illness. Born on February 22, 1820, in Boyle County, Kentucky, she relocated to Missouri in 1853 and then to Union, Oregon, in 1864. Following her husband’s death in 1889, she lived with her children. Ficklin is survived by eight children and was laid to rest in Union Cemetery. Her legacy is cherished in the heartfelt tribute penned by H.C. Emery.

Rush, George H. – Obituary

George H. Rush, a well-known building contractor, was killed in an automobile accident at a railroad crossing near Wingville. His car was struck by train No. 21 as he returned from Haines, where he had begun construction on a new school building. Rush’s passenger, Wm. Hernsen, is recovering in a hospital. Rush, aged 46, had previously resided in La Grande before moving to Astoria. His body was taken to Portland for funeral services held under Masonic auspices.

Gover, Delora F. – Obituary

Delora F. Gover, 79, a respected educator in Eastern Oregon, passed away in Provo, Utah. Born on February 15, 1910, in Imbler, she earned her teaching certification in 1930 and later a bachelor’s degree in education. She taught in various locales and devoted her life to teaching and service within the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She is survived by three daughters, two sons, and numerous grandchildren. A graveside funeral will be held at Eagle Valley Cemetery.

Gover, Vester W. – Obituary

Vester William Gover, a 47-year-old farmer from Wingville, passed away on Tuesday due to a rupture of a major artery, leading to severe complications. Born on September 17, 1909, he was the son of David S. and Pearl L. Thorp Gover, and he married Delora Funk in 1933. Gover had a 20-year farming career and worked at the Oregon Lumber Co. for 14 years. He is survived by his wife, children, parents, siblings, and many nieces and nephews. Funeral services are set for Friday at Beatty chapel.

Nichols, Robert – Obituary

The Grange committee expresses profound sorrow over the passing of Brother Robert Nichols, who died suddenly on May 19, 1877, at approximately fifty-three years of age. A resident of Baker County for fourteen years and a charter member of the Grange, he was admired for his kindness and commitment to service. Nichols, also a member of the M.E. Church, left behind a legacy of benevolence and friendship. The resolutions honor his memory and extend condolences to his family.

Ward, Raymond – Obituary

Raymond Asher Ward, 69, passed away on April 24 after a brief illness, leaving a significant impact on the Haines community. He was a well-known grain broker and managed local grain companies for over 25 years. Born on March 7, 1900, he was active in various community roles, including the city budget board and the Boy Scouts, and was a dedicated member of the Haines First Baptist Church. He is survived by his wife Olga, two sons, a sister, five grandchildren, and many relatives.

Kinnison, Carrie Lee Ison, Mrs. – Obituary

Carrie Lee Kinnison, 90, passed away at St. Elizabeth Hospital in Wingville, Baker County, Oregon. Funeral services will be held Tuesday at West and Company chapel, with interment at Mt. Hope cemetery, officiated by Rev. Lawrence Roumpf. A third-generation pioneer, she was born on March 13, 1873, and married H. B. Kinnison in 1896. Active in her community, she was a member of the Presbyterian Church and was named queen of the pioneer celebration in 1958. She is survived by her children, sister, niece, and numerous grandchildren.

Kinnison, Joseph P. – Obituary

Joseph P. Kinnison, an early settler of Baker County, Oregon, passed away at 83 in Long Beach, California, after a prolonged illness. He is remembered for building the first cabin in Baker County on the John Steiger farm site in Wingville. Originally from Missouri, Kinnison moved to California in 1853 and later drove a large herd of beef steers to Baker County in 1862, where he made significant contributions to the community. His death is mourned by many friends and acquaintances.

Sturgill, Ben F. – Obituary

Ben F. Sturgill, a pioneer of the Powder River valley, passed away at his home in Baker last Monday. He spent many years farming at Wingville before moving to a homestead in Lower Powder River. Throughout his life, Mr. Sturgill was actively involved in farming and livestock raising. He remained unmarried. His contributions to the community and dedication to agriculture mark his legacy.

McQuown, William – Obituary

William McQuown, a 60-year-old rancher from Wingville, tragically died from heart disease while working in his hay field on August 13, 1917. He collapsed as he was about to drink from a bucket. McQuown is survived by his wife, young son Oral, sister Mrs. John Hammond, brothers Thomas and Alex, and his 90-year-old mother. At the time of the report, funeral arrangements had yet to be made.

McQuowen, Thomas – Obituary

Thomas McQuowen, a lifelong resident of the Wingville and Pocahontas areas, died unexpectedly at his sister-in-law’s home on May 23, 1939. Born in 1864 to pioneer parents who traveled to Baker County via oxen train, McQuowen dedicated his life to farming. He is survived by his brother Alec, two nephews, and several relatives. Funeral services are scheduled for Thursday afternoon, with interment at Wingville Cemetery.

McEwen, Martha Anne – Obituary

Martha Annie McEwen, 89, passed away at her Wingville home following a long illness. Born on December 27, 1883, in Mt. Pleasant, Iowa, she moved to Auburn as a child and later resided in Baker Valley. Martha was married twice, first to John Behan and then to William McEwen, with whom she had several children. She is survived by three daughters, a son, numerous grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be held at West and Company, with interment at Mt. Hope Cemetery.

M’Quowen, Mary

Mary McQuowen, a longtime resident of Wingville, Oregon, passed away at the age of 90. Having lived in Oregon for most of her life, she is survived by her two sons and two daughters, all of whom reside in the state. Her funeral service is scheduled for Thursday afternoon at the Wingville Church.

Jarman, Emery T. – Obituary

Emery T. Jarman, aged 85, passed away on August 13, 1967, in St. Elizabeth Hospital after a prolonged illness. Graveside services were held on August 16 at North Powder Cemetery, officiated by Rev. Robert McNiel. A pioneer from Kansas, Jarman arrived in Oregon in 1882 and ran a meat market in Rock Creek, delivering meat to local residents. He is survived by his daughter, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. His wife, Mary, predeceased him in 1950. Contributions were made to the Baker County Tuberculosis Association in his memory.

Sieg, Desmond – Obituary

Desmond Donald Sieg, a prominent Valley rancher, passed away on February 16, 1990, at the age of 70. Born in Oregon in 1919, he served in the Army Air Force during World War II and returned to Baker after his discharge. Desmond married Georgia Long in 1949 and farmed in Baker Valley until 1971. Active in local organizations and adored by his grandchildren, he is survived by his wife, children, siblings, and numerous family members. Funeral services were held on February 20, 1990.

Leigh, Elaine Betty “Hap” Lewis Ingram Mrs. – Obituary

Elaine Betty “Hap” Leigh, 84, of Baker City, passed away on May 5, 2005, at St. Elizabeth Nursing Home. Born on April 27, 1921, she was a lifelong resident of the area, except for brief stints in Pendleton and Portland. Elaine was married twice and had five children. She was known for her warmth, humor, and love of family, animals, and the outdoors. A Celebration of Life service will be held on Saturday, followed by a reception.