D. SOLIS COHEN. – Prominent among the younger of the business men who have materially advanced the mercantile interest of Oregon is he whose name appears above, who was born in Philadelphia, where he resided consecutively until leaving for Oregon about twelve years ago, and where his family still remain as among the oldest residents, having resided in that city from early times. Previous to leaving his native city, Mr. Cohen had given up mercantile business for the pen, and was connected with various local papers, writing under a nom de plume which is still popularly remembered in the Quaker City. Being taken with the Western fever, however, he came to Portland, where, after being engaged a time as book-keeper with the Davis Bros. of San Francisco the firm of Cohen, Davis & Co., which from a comparatively small beginning now virtually controls its line of business in the Northwest. The firm imports largely from Europe direct to Portland, and has business connections throughout the entire surrounding country into Idaho and Montana.
Mr. Cohen has always taken an active interest in public affairs, especially those of a philanthropic character. He is one the managers of the Boys’ and Girls’ aid Society, also of the Free Kindergarten Association. He is serving a second term on the State Board of Immigration, and has since their organization been vice-president of the Franklin Building Association, and president of the Installment Homestead Association, – institutions which have been important factors in the development of the city. Mr. Cohen is popular in Masonic and A.G.U.W. circles, and being a ready and eloquent speaker is frequently called upon for addresses of a public and social character.