Cayuse War

Biography of Gen. Joel Palmer

General Joel Palmer, a highly respected figure in Oregon, was known for his humility and competence. Born to New Yorkers temporarily in Canada, he settled in Oregon after a significant journey in 1845. Palmer served as quartermaster-general during the Cayuse War and was instrumental in leading settlers to Oregon. He also played a key role in the management of Native American tribes, successfully establishing reservations and promoting agricultural development. Although he ran for governor in 1874, he was not elected. Palmer passed away in 1881, leaving a lasting legacy.

Biography of Thomas T. Redsull

Thomas T. Redsull, born in Kent, England, on November 15, 1827, became a pioneer of the Pacific Northwest after arriving in California in 1838. At eleven, he began an apprenticeship with the Hudson’s Bay Company. He later settled in Oregon and was a pilot on the Columbia River. Redsull was instrumental during the mining boom in Idaho, served in the Cayuse War, and participated in protecting settlers from Indian attacks. A prominent figure in Bellevue, he served as justice of the peace and probate judge, contributing significantly to the region’s development.

Biography of Samuel Kimbrough Barlow

Samuel Kimbrough Barlow, born January 14, 1795, in Kentucky, was a pioneer of strong principles and a commitment to universal freedom, opposing slavery despite his family’s extensive involvement with it. After moving to Indiana, he embarked on a significant journey to Oregon in 1845, where he established the Barlow Road across the Cascade Mountains, facilitating migration to the region. A dedicated supporter of Henry Clay, Barlow also participated in the Cayuse Indian War. He died on July 14, 1867, leaving behind a legacy of integrity and community service.

Biography of Hon. B. F. Burch

Hon. B.F. Burch was born on May 2, 1825, in Missouri and spent his early years there before migrating to Oregon in 1845. He taught the first school in Polk County and was instrumental in establishing the Southern Oregon wagon road. Burch served as adjutant during the Cayuse War and later commanded a company in the Yakima War. A member of the constitutional convention and the first state legislature, he held various positions, including state senator and superintendent of the penitentiary. He was married in 1848 and has one surviving child.

Biography of Hugh L. Brown

Hugh Leeper Brown, born on January 24, 1810, in Knox County, Tennessee, emigrated with his family to Missouri in 1838. In 1846, he traveled to Oregon, settling near Brownsville, which was named after him. A prominent community leader, he engaged in various occupations, including mercantile and founding a woolen mill. Brown served in the Oregon legislature and participated in the Cayuse War. He was married for sixty years to Clarissa, raising eight children, and died in 1888.

Biography of Col. Cornelius Gilliam

Colonel Cornelius Gilliam, born in North Carolina in 1798, moved to Missouri as a youth and later became an influential figure in the early settlement of Oregon. He served in various military capacities, including the Black Hawk and Seminole wars, and played a critical role during the Cayuse War following the murder of Dr. Marcus Whitman in 1847. Known for his leadership, Gilliam fostered camaraderie among his troops. Tragically, he was accidentally killed in January 1848, marking the end of a significant chapter in Oregon’s military history.

Biography of Gen. Morton Mathew McCarver

General Morton Mathew McCarver, born in 1807 in Kentucky, was a pivotal figure in the founding of Burlington, Iowa; Sacramento, California; and Tacoma, Washington. A veteran of the Black Hawk War, he ventured westward to establish settlements, notably becoming a leader in Burlington’s development and the Iowa state constitution. Later, he moved to Oregon, participated in the California gold rush, and ultimately founded Tacoma, securing its role as the Northern Pacific Railroad’s terminus. McCarver’s life was marked by determination and significant contributions to the growth of several American cities. He passed away in 1875.

Biography of John Birch McClain

John Birch McClain, born January 31, 1820, in Philadelphia, was a key figure in the westward expansion of the United States. In 1843, he joined the migration to Oregon, working closely with Dr. Marcus Whitman to guide emigrants safely. McClain’s experiences included interactions with Native Americans and serving in the Cayuse War as a private secretary to General Gilliam. He settled in Salem, Oregon, where he became a prominent businessman and community leader, contributing to local governance and establishing his family with a strong legacy.

Biography of Flemming R. Hill

Flemming R. Hill, born in 1824 in Tennessee, moved to Missouri and later ventured westward. He worked as a teamster on an Oregon-bound emigrant train, experiencing numerous perilous situations, including a dramatic cattle crossing. Enlisting in the Cayuse War in 1847, Hill displayed bravery, notably rescuing an interpreter and confronting hostile forces. After participating in the California mining efforts, he returned to Oregon, where he held public office, including sheriff, and operated a hotel. Hill married Belinda Reed in 1853, and they had two daughters.

Biography of Gen. John E. Ross

General John E. Ross, born in Ohio in 1818, played a vital role in early Oregon history as an Indian fighter and legislator. After arriving in Oregon in 1847, he became involved in the Cayuse War and later pursued gold in California. An experienced military commander, he led troops during conflicts, including the Rogue River War and the Modoc War. Ross’s contributions extended to politics as a legislator and organizer of the Oregon California Railroad Company. His legacy remains influential despite health issues in his later years.

Biography of Capt. J. H. McMillen

Captain J.H. McMillen, a pioneer of the 1845 westward migration, embodies the courage and determination of early settlers. Born on May 10, 1823, in New York, he learned the trade of a millwright before crossing the plains to Oregon. Notable experiences include interactions with Native Americans and significant contributions to infrastructure, such as building the first railroad in the state. A dedicated community member, McMillen supported education and temperance, and served in various local government roles. He remains actively engaged in historical preservation and veteran affairs.

Biography of Col. James Taylor

Colonel James Taylor, an influential pioneer of Astoria, Oregon, immigrated in 1845 and contributed significantly to the region’s development. Born in Pennsylvania in 1809, he moved westward, engaged in trade with Native Americans, and ultimately settled in Oregon after a challenging journey. He played a crucial role in local agriculture and industry, including coining Oregon’s first currency, Beaver Money. A family man and a prominent figure in the community, he was Oregon’s first Republican legislator, despite facing political challenges.