JAS. HENDERSHOTT. – Mr. Hendershott, who became known to the state as a member of our legislature in both branches during the years 1866-72, is now residing upon a beautiful and well-improved farm upon the gently sloping lands described as a “territorial paradise,” lying east of Hendershott’s point, near The Cove, Oregon. He is engaged in farming and fruit-raising, and in the culture of fine stock and poultry. His is a farm somewhat rare on this coast, where a flock of pea fowls may be seen. His residence is described as ‘palatial,” and is known as “Forest Home.” His mode of life is upon a liberal scale. Many of his experiments are conducted with a view to public improvement and information, since he holds the position of state horticultural commissioner for the fifth district. He is evidently fulfilling his duties in this line with fidelity and efficiency. His three children and six grandchildren live near.
Mr. Hendershott is, as the name implies, of German extraction, and was born in Illinois in 1829. His parents became early settlers of Iowa; and at Burlington young James received his education. While but a youth of nineteen he was married to Miss Harriet J. Vincent, of Iowa, and in 1852 crossed the plains to our state in the company of Asa McCully, who was in the lead of the other trains, and thereby escaped the plague and disasters for which that year was notable. As salesman of J.L. Starkey, at Salem, in 1852; as pioneer, auditor and sheriff of Josephine county from 1854 to 1860; as scout in the Indian war; as miner on the Salmon river, and as settler of the Grande Ronde valley, whither he first came in1862; as state legislator in 1866, state senator 1868-72 and state land registrar 1872-74, and now as horticultural commissioner, – Mr. Hendershott has made an honorable record, and has served the state with efficiency. He and his excellent wife are noted for their hospitality, and are honored by their neighbors.
