Vertner R. Johnson, born on July 11, 1861, in Todd County, is the son of J. H. and G. A. Johnson, lifelong residents of the area. Raised on his father’s farm, he married Nannie B. Pennington on March 13, 1881, and they have two children. Following their marriage, Johnson acquired the 316-acre old Andrews farm, where he continues to reside.
This is the obituary for James Rogers, age 84, who died on June 16, 2008. It was initially published by the Record Courier in Baker City, Oregon on June 26, 2008.
John C. Johnson, born on November 9, 1877, in Madison County, Indiana, has dedicated his life to public service and farming. The son of Joseph and Elizabeth Johnson, he was raised in Van Buren Township and educated in local schools. Elected Township trustee in 1908, he has been a prominent advocate for education and community welfare. Johnson is known for his integrity and sociable nature, earning respect and support for his candidacy for County clerk. He maintains a well-improved farm and is a member of several fraternal organizations.
Daniel Marcus Johnson, born on September 11, 1869, in Van Buren Township, became a prominent farmer on his 100-acre property. Initially a renter, he steadily saved to purchase land, leading to his success as an agriculturist. After marrying Estella May Taylor in 1908, they raised two children. Johnson, who actively participated in local farming, specialized in raising Duroc hogs for market. He is affiliated with the Primitive Baptist church, while his wife belongs to the Missionary Baptist church.
Lewis Johnson, born on July 30, 1846, in Adams Township, Madison County, Indiana, is a notable figure in local agriculture. A lifelong resident, he has witnessed and contributed to the transformation of the area from wilderness to a prosperous community. Educated in district schools and through hard work, he developed a successful farming career and engaged in cattle trading. Married to Martha A. Slaughter, he raised six children, all of whom have pursued education and community roles. Johnson is an active member of the Masons and a committed Democrat, demonstrating dedication to local affairs.
J. C. McFetridge, born on December 22, 1844, in Virginia, was a dedicated citizen of Wallowa County, Oregon, known for his sagacity and judgment. He served valiantly in the Civil War, initially working as a teamster before engaging in combat. After the war, he pursued farming in Kansas before settling in Oregon in 1881, where he expanded his homestead to 480 acres. Married to Martha J. Johnson, they had several children and were active members of their Christian community, earning widespread respect.
Henry W. Beecher, born May 17, 1849, in Ohio, became a prominent agriculturist and respected citizen of Wallowa County, Oregon. After enlisting at 15 in the Thirty-ninth Missouri Volunteers during the Civil War, he bravely faced numerous battles and skirmishes. Following the war, Beecher moved west, ultimately settling in the Wallowa Valley in 1877, where he developed a successful farm. He married Margaret Wilson in 1872 and raised a large family, earning admiration and trust within the community for his contributions and character.
Frank S. Johnson, born on October 30, 1861, in Iowa, was a prominent figure in Wallowa County, known for his commitment to community development and moral integrity. After relocating to California and working in various trades, he settled in Flora in 1888, where he homesteaded and founded the town. Johnson actively engaged in local politics and education, promoting advancements in his district. He married Anna Kuhn in 1886, and together they contributed significantly to their church and community, earning widespread respect.
John Johnson was born on December 26, 1850, in England and immigrated to Kansas with his family at a young age. After exploring the eastern United States, he settled in Wallowa County, Oregon, in 1878, becoming the first settler in the Imnaha area. Johnson developed a successful homestead and ranch, renowned for high-quality stock. Married in 1884 to Mary, they had four children. A respected community member, he served as a scout during the 1878 Indian conflicts, demonstrating courage and commitment to his new home.
Joseph F. Johnson, born in Missouri in 1839, moved to Oregon as a child and played a significant role in Wallowa County’s development. He pursued gold in British Columbia and later settled in Wallowa County, establishing a successful ranching operation. Johnson was a key political figure, involved in various conventions and advocating for irrigation initiatives. He married Fannie Applegate in 1871 and they had eight children. Renowned for his integrity and foresight, Johnson contributed to the region’s growth and maintained a commendable reputation throughout his life.
A detailed account of the 1894 Hinckley forest fire in Minnesota describes how drought, hurricane-force winds and smoldering fires turned the region into an inferno. It recounts the destruction of Hinckley, Brook Park, Pokegama and nearby settlements, desperate escapes by train and refuge in ponds and pits, and the confirmed death toll of 413.
A. H. Johnson arrived in Portland in 1852 with no money or connections but quickly rose to prominence as a leading businessman. Born in London in 1830, he aided his family on a Wisconsin farm before moving to Oregon. After starting in a butcher shop, he established a successful meat market and later became the city’s largest meat dealer, with annual revenues up to $400,000. A respected figure in Portland, he was known for his integrity and generosity, contributing significantly to the community’s prosperity. Johnson married Cordelia St. Clair and had fourteen children.
Samuel C. Johnson, an esteemed businessman in Racine, reflects resilience and continued vigor at eighty-three. Born in 1833 near Elyria, Ohio, he moved to Wisconsin, where he built a successful retail book business and later founded a factory for hardwood flooring and wax production. His innovative products gained widespread recognition, leading to a significant international market presence. Married to Carrie Fisk in 1861, Johnson remains actively engaged in business, exemplifying the value of experience and enduring dedication, with a legacy that continues to thrive.
Herbert F. Johnson, born in 1869 in Kenosha, is the current manager of S. C. Johnson & Son, a leading manufacturer of wax products. He succeeded his father, Samuel C. Johnson, and has significantly contributed to the company’s growth through his comprehensive understanding of the business. Johnson, who married Helen Converse in 1892, is active in community service as president of Racine’s board of education and is involved with local organizations such as the Elks and the Masons.
In Webster County, the slave trade involved significant pricing variations based on age and health. Adult women were sold for $300 to $500, while men fetched around $1,000. Children were priced between $150 and $200. Local accounts, including that of Mr. Tom Johnson, note that his father, a former slave trader, also served as the chief sheriff. Runaway slaves were commonly captured, with a typical reward of $100 for their return.
Frank L. Johnson, born on September 24, 1852, in Cornish, was a notable farmer and owner of a picturesque estate along Blow-me-down Brook. He inherited a legacy of farming from his father, William P. Johnson, an influential figure in town education and public service. Frank married Dora A. Chase in 1877 and focused on general farming and cattle trading. He has remained committed to his family’s homestead while generally steering clear of public life, showing interest in local welfare. The couple had one daughter, Marjorie May.