Among the promising and capable business men of Wallowa must be mentioned the enterprising and active gentleman, whose name is at the head of this article and who is well and favorably known in all parts of this section, being commended to his fellows by his affability and excellent capabilities, that have been manifested as characteristic of him in a successful career of business, since he has been domiciled within our county.
A native son of the northwest, being born in the Grande Ronde valley, the date thereof being September 23, 1872. His parents, E.B. and Rebecca J. Morelock, were natives of Missouri, but at the present time are residents of Elgin, in Union county. Our subject acquired his educational training in the schools of the Grande Ronde valley and at the early age of sixteen years began the battle of life for himself, in which he has gained both a gratifying success, and the encomiums of his fellows. His initiatory work was as salesman, following it continuously for several years. In 1897 he had acquired good training in this line and had secured a good property and came to Wallowa and discovered an opening there for a first class confectionery and cigar store, which he at once started. He owns the ground and building where his business is conducted and he has gained a patronage that is flattering and has given him the rewards of substantial property. He is one of the influential men of the town and is active in political matters, being allied with the Republican party and ever laboring for those measures that he deems advantageous for the welfare of the county and her residents. At the present time Mr. Morelock is serving as mayor of the town of Wallowa, being placed in that position by an appreciative and discriminating people, and he is faithfully and efficiently discharging the responsible duties of that incumbency, and is highly esteemed by all.
On February 23, 1898, Mr. Morelock married Mary A., daughter of John W. and Lottie (Couch) Logan, natives of Missouri, but at the present time residents of Elgin. To the happy union there has been born one child, Willena Gladys L., born December 15, 1898, at Wallowa. Mr. Morelock is prominently connected in fraternal affiliations, being identified with the Masons, Standley Lodge, No. 113; with O.E.S., Chapter No. 86; with the I.O.O.F., Wallowa Lodge, No. 54; with the K. of P., Wallowa Lodge, No. 87; with the W. of W., Camp No. 600. He is a young businessman of promise and stands high in the esteem and confidence of his fellows, while he has manifested ability of a rare merit.