Down

Down, Melvin C. – Obituary

Joseph, Wallowa County Melvin Charles Down, 55, of Island City, died Friday, May 25, in Baker. Mr. Down was born Aug. 8, 1923 in Joseph to Roy and Ethel Stanford Down. On April 29, 1950 he married Peggy Waddingham in La Grande. In 1969 he moved from Milton-Freewater to La Grande. He was a World War II veteran and a member of La Grande Eagles Aeri No. 259, La Grande Elks Lodge #433 and the American Legion. He was a logger and former member of the Oregon Log Truckers Association. Survivors include his wife of Island city: sons, Kenneth, stationed … Read more

Down, Charles Mrs. – Obituary

Wallowa, Wallowa County, Oregon Mrs. Charles Down died Wednesday morning, April 15, 1925, on Prairie Creek, after a long illness. She was the wife of one of largest farmers in the county. Her body will be sent to Summerville, Union county, for burial, as she was a member of an old family of that county, her father being John E. Jones. Mary Louisa Jones was born at Salt Lake City September 13, 1853, and after her marriage to Mr. Down came to Wallowa valley 23 years ago. She is survived by her husband and two sons, Roscoe and Roy, and … Read more

Biography of John Down

John Down came to Riverside in 1874, his only capital being his trade as bricklayer, combined with an energetic disposition and a willingness to labor. He purchased block 2, range 7, on Main Street, between Second and Third streets, planting the same in oranges. The same year he commenced work for Mr. E. M. Sheldon, who had started the pioneer brickyards on the west side of Buena Vista avenue, north of town, and two years later he entered into partnership under the firm name of Sheldon & Down. The brick-yards were gradually increased to meet the growing demands, and conducted … Read more