Michigan

Biographical Sketch of George Lyman Van Voorhis

George Lyman Van Voorhis was born on April 21, 1871, in Kalamazoo County, Michigan. His family relocated to New York, where he received his education in various schools but did not graduate. He was active in the Republican Party and worked as a teacher and farmer before serving as the supervisor of Victor from 1901 to 1905 and as sheriff from 1906 to 1909. A member of several organizations, he married Vernie B. Strong in 1896, and they had three children.

Biography of L. A. Loomis

L.A. Loomis played a pivotal role in developing Pacific County, Washington, making it more accessible for business and recreation. He established essential transportation links, including a stage line and several steam navigation companies, facilitating travel from Ilwaco to Oysterville and Grays Harbor. Loomis’s ventures spurred tourism to the region, drawing thousands of visitors. A veteran of the Indian Wars, he returned to the area after years in various occupations, ultimately becoming a prominent figure in the region’s economic growth. He was married to Philip Glover’s daughter, contributing to his lasting legacy.

Biography of Judge Columbia Lancaster

Judge Columbia Lancaster, born in Connecticut in 1893, became a notable figure in the legal landscape of early Michigan and later Oregon. He trained under esteemed lawyer Whittlesy Newton and moved westward, establishing his practice in Centreville. Lancaster played a vital role in securing statehood for Michigan and was actively involved in various legal and legislative capacities. In Oregon, he served as a Supreme Court judge and was the first congressional delegate from Washington Territory, achieving significant legislative accomplishments before settling in Vancouver, Washington with his family.

Biography of Sylvester Lyman

Sylvester Lyman, born February 26, 1826, in Massachusetts, exemplified the spirit of self-made success in America. After moving to Michigan at fourteen, he ventured to California in 1852, enduring the hardships of mining in Sierra County during its boom. Following a brief prospecting stint in Arizona and Fraser River, he managed a grain rancho in Santa Clara County. Married in 1864, he later purchased land in Westminster, creating a successful rancho before his death on March 11, 1889. Lyman was known for his kindness, honor, and community respect.

Biographical Sketch of Charles W. Meek

Charles W. Meek, born in 1850 in Hertfordshire, England, immigrated to the United States after the death of his father. He initially settled in New York and later in Michigan, where he honed his carpentry skills for eleven years. In 1878, he moved to La Grande, Oregon, before homesteading in Wallowa County, where he became a successful farmer and sawmill operator. Married to Alice N. Baker, he raised a family and contributed significantly to local politics, including serving as county commissioner, earning respect for his integrity and community involvement.

Biography of Burr Dexter

Burr Dexter, born on February 2, 1830, in Allegany County, New York, was a prominent figure in Wallowa County, known for his valor in the Civil War, serving with the Twenty-second Michigan Infantry. After a career in agriculture, he retired and improved his farm’s value significantly. Married twice, Dexter had five children. He is remembered as a respected, influential citizen who lived a life marked by integrity and is cherished by his descendants, including great-great-granddaughter Carla Leighton.

Biographical Sketch of C.M. Dexter

C.M. Dexter, born on March 18, 1877, in Clinton County, Michigan, is a notable figure in Wallowa County, contributing significantly to the area’s development. After spending his early years in Michigan, he returned to Wallowa County in 1894, where he successfully established a homestead and expanded his agricultural operations. He married Laura Cramer in 1898, and they have two children. Dexter is recognized for his integrity, industriousness, and commitment to community growth, embodying the pioneering spirit of the region.

Biographical Sketch of Lawrence E. Caviness

Lawrence E. Caviness, born on August 8, 1869, in Old La Grande, is celebrated for his achievements and moral character. After receiving education from local schools and Alma Business College, he partnered with his father in a successful butchering business in La Grande. Later moving to Wallowa County, he expanded his homestead to 1,240 acres, focusing on cattle and horse farming. Married to Anna Mitchell in 1900, Caviness is recognized as a prominent figure in his industry and a respected member of the community.

Biographical Sketch of Parker, F. L.

Parker, F. L. is a prominent dealer in grain, lumber, and coal, associated with the firm Hobbs Parker since 1879. He arrived in Russell, Kansas in 1877 and contributed significantly to the local economy. Originally from Ann Arbor, Michigan, born in 1848, he moved with his family in his youth to Wisconsin, where he engaged in various businesses, including hardware and manufacturing. Parker married Lizzie V. Hobbs in 1871 and has two children. He is also an active community member, having served on the City Council.

Biography of Edward James Jeffery

Edward James Jeffery, born April 23, 1835, in New York, moved to Michigan as a child. Seeking fortune, he journeyed to California in 1852, engaging in mining and farming. Over the years, he prospected in various regions, including British Columbia and Idaho, before settling into the brick business in Portland. His entrepreneurial efforts flourished, expanding into city and railroad contracting. A dedicated democrat, Jeffery served as sheriff and actively participated in local politics. He and his wife had seven children, and he made significant contributions to Portland’s development.