Google
This is a digital copy of a book that was preserved for generations on library shelves before it was carefully scanned by Google as part of a project
to make the world's books discoverable online.
It has survived long enough for the copyright to expire and the book to enter the public domain. A public domain book is one that was never subject
to copyright or whose legal copyright term has expired. Whether a book is in the public domain may vary country to country. Public domain books
are our gateways to the past, representing a wealth of history, culture and knowledge that's often difficult to discover.
Marks, notations and other maiginalia present in the original volume will appear in this file - a reminder of this book's long journey from the
publisher to a library and finally to you.
Usage guidelines
Google is proud to partner with libraries to digitize public domain materials and make them widely accessible. Public domain books belong to the
public and we are merely their custodians. Nevertheless, this work is expensive, so in order to keep providing tliis resource, we liave taken steps to
prevent abuse by commercial parties, including placing technical restrictions on automated querying.
We also ask that you:
+ Make non-commercial use of the files We designed Google Book Search for use by individuals, and we request that you use these files for
personal, non-commercial purposes.
+ Refrain fivm automated querying Do not send automated queries of any sort to Google's system: If you are conducting research on machine
translation, optical character recognition or other areas where access to a large amount of text is helpful, please contact us. We encourage the
use of public domain materials for these purposes and may be able to help.
+ Maintain attributionTht GoogXt "watermark" you see on each file is essential for in forming people about this project and helping them find
additional materials through Google Book Search. Please do not remove it.
+ Keep it legal Whatever your use, remember that you are responsible for ensuring that what you are doing is legal. Do not assume that just
because we believe a book is in the public domain for users in the United States, that the work is also in the public domain for users in other
countries. Whether a book is still in copyright varies from country to country, and we can't offer guidance on whether any specific use of
any specific book is allowed. Please do not assume that a book's appearance in Google Book Search means it can be used in any manner
anywhere in the world. Copyright infringement liabili^ can be quite severe.
About Google Book Search
Google's mission is to organize the world's information and to make it universally accessible and useful. Google Book Search helps readers
discover the world's books while helping authors and publishers reach new audiences. You can search through the full text of this book on the web
at |http: //books .google .com/I
R
^IHb
J
A 846.644 ^H
^^^^^^■^B
K^
OREGON
)
$^
1
"THE UNION"
i
1
OREGON
OREGON
Her Hi^ory
Her Great Men
Her Literature
IVritten and Published by ' .
JOHN B. UpRNER, A.M., LlttD.
Professor of History
Head of the Department of Historical Research, Oregon Agricultural College;
Author of "Oregon Wterature"; "Vacation on the Mediterranean"
ILLUSTRATED
Distributed by
The O. A. C. Co-operative Association The J. K. Gill Company
Corvallis, Oregon Portland, Oregon
For sale at all bookstands;
Price $2.00; postaffe prepaid
1919
Press of the Gazette-Times
CORVALLIS, OREGON
\
(Joprightod in 1919
By J. B. HORNER
WAB EDITION.
Engravings made by Hicks-Chatten, Portland ;
Cover designed by W. M. Ball, Gorvallis;
Bo^n4 by The Enterprise, Oregon City.
TO
THE HEROES AND HEROINES OF OREGON
PATRIOTISM IS INCREASED
BY
KNOWLEDGE OF THE STATE
This volume was written largely from first sources, the
author having been personally familiar with the Oregon
Country for more than a half century. His gratitude is due,
however, to the following members of the Oregon Historical
Society; Curator George H. Himes. Hon. Binger Herman,
Hon. John Gill, Mr. Leslie M. Scott, Mr. Frederick V. Hol-
man, Mr. T. C. EUliott, and Capt, O, C. Applegate, for
valuable suggestions, and to other authorities freely con-
sulted in the preparation of this book. These are men-
tioned later with more data than can appear in the preface.
All have wisely interpreted their observations and have
commendably performed their part in preserving and exalt-
ing the history of Oregon and the Pacific NorthwesL Hence
with the encouragement and aid offered by these and others,
the task of preparing this publication has been hopefully
pursued with one advantage over its predecessors — the op-
portunity of gleaning the choicest from all of them.
The reader will observe that the volume is offered
essentially as a history of Oregon with only such reference
8 OREGON
to.: the story of the Pacific Northwest as may be indispen-
sable in the introductory chapters.
Approximately five hundred events relative to the
historical importance of Oregon have occurred since she
avowed her purpose to "fly with her own wings** in a glori-
bus ascent to American statehood. This volume, therefore,
is designed to give such a condensed, authentic account of
these activities as will instruct the reader, create a love for
Oregon, and arouse patriotic respect for her laws and insti-
tutions.
OREGON
The Oregon Country was the first territory the United
States acquired on the Pacific Coast of America. It com-
prised the region bordering the Pacific Ocean from Cali-
fornia on the south to British America on the north, and
extending as far east as the summit of the Rocky Mountains
— an area equal to all the first thirteen states, Georgia
excepted.
From this vast domain were carved the states of Ore-
gon, Washington and Idaho with a part of Wyoming and
Montana. There are 96,699 square miles in the State of
Oregon, which is more territory than the combined area of
AREA OF OREGON— 96.699 Square Miles
New York, Massachusetts, Connecticut, New Jersey, Ver-
mont, New Hzunpshire, Delaware, Maryland, with several
other states each of which would be the size of Rhode
Island.
t
10
OREGON
So great are the distances and so wide the area of
Oregon that Massachusetts could easily nestle in the
Willzunette Valley. Massachusetts and Rhode Island to-
gether have less area than either Harney County or Malheur
County. Any one of sixteen Oregon counties is larger
than the state of Delaware, and any one of twenty-four
counties is larger than Rhode Island.
England, with about thirty-five million people, com-
prises only three-fifths as much area sis Oregon. Were Eng-
land as large as Oregon, she could support more than half
OREGON COMPARED IN AREA WITH GREAT BRITAIN
I Bemainlng Jifl eq.ro. i
' Noarly area of Ifass. j
the present population of the United States. Yet the total
population of the State of Oregon is less than one million.
The white settlers who came, when Oregon statehood
was a mere Utopian dream, were strong of intellect and
heroic of heart. Many of them were the descendants of the
Pilgrims and the Cavaliers; and the others were like them.
True to their traditions, they took up the westward journey
of their ancestors, and traveled 3,000 miles, which is
IT
%->
INTRODUCTION
II
one of the longest pilgrimages mentioned in history. Their
hardships were so severe that every mile of the long journey
could have been marked with graves of those who fell along
the way. Truly the Oregon emigrants^ were no less Pilgrims
OREGON COUNTIES COMPARED IN AREA WITH
MASSACHUSETTS AND RHODE ISLAND
Harney County, 9,933 sq. m. Malheur County, 9,883 sq. m.
Area of
8366
BQ. ml.
Hhode
Island
1
Surplus,
and Cavaliers than were the colonists of Plymouth and
Jamestown,
i"In the history of the Northwest the terms 'emigrants' and
'emigration* have commonly been used instead of 'immigrants' and
'immigration'." — History of the Pacific Northwest.
1 2 OREGON
Upon their arrival in Oregon, they found themselves
among Indians whose language was strange and whose
habits were devilish. But despite the atrocities committed
by the natives, the forests were converted into homes, school
houses, churches and cities; the preuries, unscathed by plow
since creation's morn, were transformed into fields, gardens
and orchards; and the treacherous Indian was taught to
worship the God of our fathers. Under the white man's
touch the hunting ground became the scene of a harvest
home, the tepee a college, and the battlefield a sanctuary.
As the result of changes ordained by the sterling men
and women who had come on the serious business of home
making, Oregon produced more standard literature in fifty
years than the original Thirteen Colonies produced in the
same length of time; and according to area and population
there can scarce be found in the Union, more universities,
colleges, academies, high schools, churches and other refin-
ing forces than there are within the 1 30 miles lying between
Eugene and Portland.
As Massachusetts is the mother of New England, so is
Oregon the mother of the Pacific Northwest. But while
Massachusetts requires her historic achievements thoroughly
taught in schools, Oregon has not yet made a similar de-
mand regarding her own. It has, therefore, become the
patriotic duty of the schools, the press, the pulpit, and social
and literary clubs insistently to encourage and actively to
promote historical research concerning Oregon until the long
neglected story of her development is taught with the same
enthusiasm, skill and interest as is the history of Massachu-
setts or that of any other State in the Union.
EPOCHS OF OREGON HISTORY
The History of Oregon is divided into five epochs:
First Epoch. Early Explorations. This epoch treats
of the explorations that led to the discovery of Oregon, first
from the sea, (1792), then by land, (1805). It begins in
1 502, with the effort of Columbus to find a passage through
Panama to India, and ends in 1805, when Lewis and Clark
completed their overland expedition to Astoria. Also under
Epoch I are selections from Indian folk-lore as told to the
earliest white explorers and settlers.
Second Epoch. The Settlement of Oregon, This epoch
extends from 1805 to 1843. It treats of the settlement of
the Oregon Country by the British and Canadians, who
came as trappers and traders; and by the American emi-
grants, \Nrho settled the country in true colonial fashion.
Third Epoch. Oregon Under the Provisional Govern-
ment. This epoch begins in 1 843, at which time the settlers
provided for themselves a government independent of the
Hudson's Bay Company; it ends March 3, 1849, when
Governor Joseph Lane proclaimed the territorial govern-
ment in Oregon. It is the story of Oregon under the Pro-
visional Government.
Fourth Epoch. Oregon Under the Territorial Govern-
ment. This epoch extends from 1849 to 1859. It is the
history of Oregon from Governor Lane's proclamation of
Ap«r'3, 1849, to February 14, 1859, when Oregon was
admitted to statehood.
Fifth Epoch. The State of Oregon. This epoch ex-
tending from 1859 to the present, is the history of Oregon
as a state, in the union of states under the federal constitu-
tion. Also under this epoch appears Section XIV which
treats of the Literature of Oregon, the most of which was
written during her statehood.
CASCADE RANGE CREATED
15
THE EARLIEST ACCOUNT OF OREGON
The earliest account of Oregon was recorded in the
great Book of Stone which lay buried under mountain and
valley, prairie and seashore, to be opened and read, with
the aid of pick-axe, microscope and retort. The stories in
the book are full of meaning. They are illustrated with
pictures printed, life size; and pressed between the flinty
leaves are the perfectly -preserved evidences of life in earth
and sea and air.
Among the first to open that part of the book which
gives an accoiint of Oregon, was the late Doctor Thomas;
Condon, professor of geology in three universities and at
one time state geologist of
Oregon. The stories he read
from its pages were so inter-
esting and instructive that he
published them in a volume
entitled "The Two Islands,"
later republished under the
title of "Oregon Geology."
In one of the stories Doc-
tor Condon describes the first
appearance of our greatest
mountains as they might have
been vie^ved from some eleva-
tion — possibly that ancient
sea-bank, which we now cal!
the Oregon Coast Range. He
says:
"A colossal sea-dyke was
of the ocean, extending from what v
through what is now Oregon and Washington, to the Aleu-
tian Islands — a mere sea-dyke for a long time, only a barrier
between continuous waters; then through other ages a ridge
of elevated hills; then later one of the vrorld's mountain
wonders, the Cascade and Sierra Nevada Range."
DK. THOMAS CONDON
wly rising from the bed
:all Lower California,
THE NAME "OREGON"
Jonathan Carver applied the name ''Oregon" to the
"River of the Wot" as early as 1 778 — two years after the
Declaration of Independence. He said he had heard the
river called that name in
I 766. by Indians living near
the east slope of the Rocky
Mountains.
At least six explanations
have been offered regarding
the meaning and derivation of
the word, "Oregon":
1. Various authors ascribe
ihe word Oregon to the "Orig-
anum," a wild plant said to
have been found growing in
abundance along the Pacific
2. Hall J. Kelley, who
wrote pamphlets concerning
the Oregon country as early
as 1 829, claimed to have
of this river to a large river
JONATHAN OABVEB
traced " 'Oregon,' the name
called 'Orjon,' in Chinese Tartaiy.
3. William G. Steel, who pub-
lished a booklet on Oregon
names, and who was the first
president of the Oregon Geo-
graphic Board, says it is claimed
that "Oregon" came from "Oyer-
un-gon," a Shoshone word,
meaning " a place of plenty."
4. Bidiop Bleuichet, connect-
ed with the Catholic Missionary
movement in Washington and
Oregon, decided that "Oregon"
DERIVATION OF •OREGON"
17
is a form of **Orejon,'* (plural Ore j ones) meaning **big ears'*
— a term applied by the Spaniards to Indian tribes whose
ears were enlarged by loads of ornaments.
5. The poet, Joaquin Miller, who affectionately called
Oregon the Emerald State, referred to the derivation of its
name as **from the Spanish w^ords, *aura agua,* meaning
gently falling waters, a poetic reference to the rains foi
which the sea coast of Oregon is famed.**
6. **The Popular History of Oregon** tells us that * 'Ore-
gon** is a form of the name **Aragon,** which in Spain
is pronounced very much like **Oregon,** with the accent
strongly on the last sylla-
ble, as most Americans
pronounced the word fifty
years ago. In support of
this theory it may be sug-
gested that the name
might have been given to
the new country by Span-
ish missionaries as a mark
of courtesy to Ferdinand,
of Aragon, Prince Consort
of Isabella, who offered to
pledge her jewels to make
possible the voyage which
resulted in the discovery
of America.
Although • 'Oregon** probably came from one or more of
these words, it could have other derivation. But while we
are not certain as to its derivation we do know that it is a
peculiar name introduced by Jonathan Carver and made
famous in literature by the poet Bryant, in his poem,
Thanatopsis; that it was applied to the river now called
the Columbia, then to the entire region dreuned by that river,
then restricted to the territory which later became the thirty-
third state of the Union.
CARVER'S MAP OF THE RIVER
OF THE WEST, 1778
DISCOVERY
OF OREGON
CHAPTER I.
For a long time
the Oregon Coi
a land of mystery and
enchantment as vague as were the Pillars
of Hercules to the ancients, and possessed of
legends as entrancing as those of Greek mythology. When
Bryant wrote Thanatopsis' in 1812, he thought of the Bar-
can desert as one end of the earth and of the Oregon Couii'
try as the other. So little was known of this far-west coun-
try that he referred to it as
"The continuous woods
Where rolls the Oregon and hears no sound
Save his own dashings,"
which vr&B as indefinite as a reference to Fairy-land. But
as the pillars of Hercules eventually proved to be the great
twin rocks guarding the gateway of the Mediterranean, so
the "continuous w^oods," mentioned by Bryant, proved to
be a vast region now called the Oregon Country.
The Oregon Country, once described in legend as a
land of mystic obscurity, later appeared in history as the
'First appeared In "North American Review," 1817.
^/
20 HISTORY OF OREGON
first territory on the Pacific Coast to which the United States
of America laid claim; it was the first to which she estab-
lished a title. It is the only AmericEui territory which she
acquired by priority of discovery, exploration and settle-
ment; her only possession obtained on this continent with-
out bloodshed or cash purchase. This remarkable country
bordering the Pacific Ocean from California on the south
to British America on the north extended as far east as the
summit of the Rocky Mountains. It included the territory
drained by the Columbia River and its tributaries, also the
region extending south betw^een the Pacific Ocean and the
Rocky Mountains to the 42nd parallel — in all more than a
quarter million square miles. Because of its vast size it was
subsequently divided into what are now Washington, Idaho,
Oregon, and a part of Wyoming and Montana. The story
of the Oregon Country, therefore, covers the early history
of a region that has developed into prosperous states with
their busy population, rich mines, great fields, thriving com-
merce, growing manufactories, beautiful cities and law-
making Capitols.
EXPLORATIONS THAT LED TO THE DISCOVERY
OF OREGON FROM THE SEA
The discovery of the Oregon Country, like the dis-
covery of America, w^as accidental. When it came to be
known that islands and other land barriers of various sizes
and unknow^n shapes lay across the direct sea route to India,
navigators made many voyages in search for an open pass-
age or strait through which ships might sail from Europe to
India. Know^ledge of the new^ country w^as vague, hence
every inlet along the western coast was explored in the hope
of finding a passage-way through the continent. These ex-
plorations, together with the explorations of fur traders.
EPOCH I
21
accidentally rcBuIted in the discovery of the Columbia,
which is the water highway of the Oregon Country, later
known as Old Oregon. The explorations were numerous,
covering almost three centuries. They were the thrilling
adventures chiefly of Spaniards, Englishmen and Ann
Some of them will be re-
counted in this narrative.
Exploratioiu Stunulated
by the StM^ of Anian
Strait. While historians
tell us that these explora-
tions were begun by Co-
lumbus and Balboa, it
may assist the reader to
know some interesting
things concerning the
Strait of Anian, through
which Gaspard Cortereal,
a Portuguese navigator,
claimed to have sailed
from the Atlantic to the
western ocean, in the year
1500. This was at a time .
when Columbus was seek-
ing just such a passage-way to the waters that led to India,
and it may be that he received inspiration from the report
that Cortereal gave. The seriousness with which the Strait
of Anian' was considered may be inferred from the fact that
the Hudson's Bay Company in their charter in 1670, an-
HAIiDONADO'S STRAIT
iln 1609, Maldonado, another Portuguese explorer made a map
which marks the Bering Strait of Anian. While the explorations
of Maldonado have been discredited by some writers, his map is
valuable since It implies that, with the early navigators, he
believed the earth to be much smaller than It is: that the Pacific
Ocean was only a few hundred miles wide; that the Strait of Anian
was much farther north than Indicated by navigators of the previous
century.
22 HISTORY OF OREGON
nounced their purpose to discover a passage-way from the
Atlantic waters into the western Ocean. The British par-
liament in 1 745 offered £20,000 to any Englishman sailing
through a passage from the Atlantic to the Pacific. Further-
more various navigators sought the Columbia River with
the belief that it would prove to be the Strait of Anian. It
is, therefore, to be inferred that from the time of Columbus
to the discovery of the Columbia various explorers were
bifluenced by Cortereal's account of the Strait of Anian.
Columbus and Balboa Endeavor to Sail Through the
Isthmus. In an effort to find a western passage-way from
Europe to India, so that Spanish ships might compete with
the ships of the Portuguese, Columbus in 1502 touched
upon the shores of the Isthmus of Darien. Being unable to
proceed, he returned to Spain. It so happened in 1513,
that Balboa, like Columbus, found his westward progress
obstructed by the Isthmus of Darien. His ships were
hemmed in by land on three sides. There w^ere the rich
mines of South America to his left, the equally rich mines
in Mexico to his right, and the silver mines of the Isthmus
just ahead. Had Balboa dreamed of the possibility of
loading his ships with silver and of returning to Spain to
live in princely splendor, he might have been tempted to
proceed no further on his journey of exploration. It was
well, therefore, that his dream of life w^as mystic. He con-
tinued the explorations begun by Columbus; but finding no
strait by which his ship could sail through the narrow neck
of land, he crossed the mountain by a southward route and
discovered a vast body of water which he called the South
Sea, but which we call the Pacific Ocean. Upon arriving
at the newly discovered sea, (1513), he dramatically waded
into its waters, and with drawn sword claimed all its shores
as part of the future Spanish Empire. These w^ere the be-
ginnings of the explorations which gradually approached
the mouth of the Columbia.
EPOCH!
a
Balboa believed that Darien was the northem head-
land of South America around which ships could sail, and
he hoped to find a sailing course through that headland foi
ships bound to India. But his
hopes were not realized be-
cause the passageway which
he sought remained closed
until the opening of the Pana-
ma Canal by the Americans
four centuries later. In the
hope of finding the weste'
entrance of the passage-way,
Balboa built ships, which were
the first to sail along the Pa-
cific Coast. This was the be-
ginning of the explorations
along the vrest coast of North
America, which nearly three
centuries later resulted in the
discovery of the Oregon Riv-
er. Balboa's voyage failed BALBOA
to meet the expectations of his sovereign, and in 1517, he
suffered one of those political deaths common among
Spaniards in those times. Further explorations were con-
ducted during the same period by Cortez, Governor of
Mexico, who had already attained distinction as a conqueror
of the natives, having gained Mexico for Spain. Upon
hearing of Balboa's expedition, he also desired to become
a noted explorer. Not being a sailor, Cortez provided men
and ships to sail under (Jlloa, and constructed a good naval
station for them on the vreet coast of Mexico.
Ulloa Discovers Lower California. After exploring the
Gulf of California, (1539), UUoa. who sailed under the
direction of Cortez, rounded the southern cape of Lovrer
California, which had been discovered in 1534, and sailed
northward along the coast half the length of the peninsula
24 HISTORY OF OREGON
to Cedros Island. Only one of his ships returned to Mexico,
the two others having been lost on the voyage.
Coronado Marches to Kansas. After a time Cortez
was succeeded by Mendoza as Viceroy of Mexico. Soon
the new viceroy became ambitious to outdo his prede-
cessor in the search for new lands and seas. Accordingly
he made provision for two explorations; one by land, under
Coronado, the other by sea, under Alarcon.
Coronado Started from Mexico in 1330 with a large
force of horsemen and native allies on an expedition to
conquer **The Seven Cities of Cibpla,*' which were said to
be in a northerly direction. The Golden Cities were as
famous in fable as was the spring of eternal youth which
Ponce de Leon had already sought in vain. Coronado
sought them in Mexico and Arizona. He then marched to
the Grand Canyon of the Colorado River, thence to Arkan-
sas. Having been misled by a native guide, he pushed
northward into what are now Kansas and Nebraska, where
the agricultural possibilities of the country favorably im-
pressed him. Upon failing to reach the mystic cities for
which his expedition had been equipped, Coronado returned
to Mexico, where he was received coldly by Mendoza, the
disappointed viceroy. Reports of Coronado*s expedition,
however, created intense interest in the western coast, and
led to many subsequent explorations.
Alarcon Approaches Upper California. To assist
Coronado, Mendoza organized an expedition under Alar-
con, who ascended the Colorado in small boats to the Gila,
which is near the Southern boundary of what is California.
About this time appeared a popular Spanish novel which
described a mystic island near paradise. The name of the
island was **California.**^ Because of some fancied resem-
iSome writers believe that "California" came from the Latin
words calida fornax — a hot furnace, being a reference to the unusual
heat the Spaniards experienced upon their first arrival in that
country.
EPOCH I 25
blance between the island described in the novel and the
peninsula now called Lower California, the name of the
fabled island was applied to the latter. California came
to include the territory along the coast north to the 42nd
parallel. The peninsula, or southern division, was then
called Lower California; the northern. Upper California.
Later * 'Upper** was dropped from the latter name.
Cabrillo Discovers San Diego and Monterey. Being
much encouraged by the discoveries made by Coronado
and Alarcon, Mendoza equipped Cabrillo for a northerly
expedition, following the general outline of the coast. The
navigator soon passed Cedros Island, and, on the 28th day
of September 1 542, discovered what we call San Diego, but
which he named San Miguel. From San Miguel Cabrillo
sailed to Monterery. He was very methodical in preparing
charts and maps of his explorations; hence was enabled to
give valuable detailed information concerning the country
and people discovered by him.
Ftfelo Sails Near Oregon. Cabrillo died at San Miguel
Island, January 3, 1543, and Ferelo, his pilot, assumed
charge of the expedition. Thirty years after Balboa* s first
effort to explore the coast, Ferelo may have sailed to the
parallel of 42^, which is the southern boundary of Oregon.
There is a possibility, therefore, that Oregon was seen by
this navigator more than sixty years before the first settle-
ment was made in Virginia.
Juan Perez Sails to San Margarita. Juan Perez, a
Spanish navigator, sailed from California, June 11, 1774,
and within a month, anchored at San Margarita near the
southern coast of Alaska. Later he found in latitude 49°
north a crescent-shaped harbor, which he named Lorenzo,
since called Nootka Sound.
Heceta Nearly Entered the Columbia. In the year
following (1 775), while Washington was taking command
of the continental troops on the eastern coast, the **Santiago"
and **Sonora," under the commsuid of Captedn Bruno Heceta
2 6 HISTORY OF OREGON
were sealing northward along the western coast. He landed
at Point Grenville, near the strsuts of Fuca, and there planted
the Spanish flag. **Soon afterward his crew was so thinned
by scurvy that the 'Santiago* turned homeward." On the
1 7th day of August while Heceta* was on his return voyage,
he saw the mouth of the * 'River of the West," which he mis-
took for a bay or inlet. But for this mistake Heceta prob-
ably would have crossed the bar at the mouth of the river,
in which case the Spanish flag would have been the first to
float over the river now^ called the Columbia.
Cuadra Explores Northward to Russian Territory. Al-
though the * 'Santiago*' commanded by Heceta sailed south-
ward, the **Sonora** commanded by Cuadra, sailed to the
north, whereupon the Captain discovered Mt. San Jacinto
(Mt. Edgecombe), a snow peak in latitude 5 7°. He continued
his voyage northward to latitude 58°, but decided to pro-
ceed no further, inasmuch as the Russians cleumed the coast
north of latitude 60° by right of discovery.
Mcmacht Ape\ It will be borne in mind that some of
the explorations along the Pacific Coast were stimulated by
stories recited by Indians who had visited various parts of
the country, then unknown to white people. There were
Indians in the Mississippi valley who had visited the Pacific
coast and related their adventures to seamen, missionaries
and others who published accounts of these adventures in
Europe Euid America. H. H. Bancroft quotes the French
explorer M. le Page du Pratz concerning Monacht Ape'
an intelligent Yazoo Indian who traveled from the Missis-
sippi to the Atlantic and thence to the Pacific Ocean. The
French Savant regarded this Indian as a philosopher, and
quoted many of his utterances. The following, which was
inspired by the sight of the Atlantic Ocean, is one of them:
**When 1 first saw it I was so delighted that 1 could not
speak; my eyes were too small for my souFs ease. The
iHeceta Head was named for Captain Heceta.
EPOCH I.
27
wind so disturbed the great water that I thought it would
beat the land to pieces." Ape' narrated his ezperiencea
with the Indian tribes along the River of the West, and de-
scribed an encounter which the natives under his tempo-
rary leadership had with thirty pirates who landed at the
mouth of the river. This Indian traveler was away from
home five years, and the story of his travels was published
in Paris in I 758 by du Pratz.
Drake Calls California "New
Albion." Thus far only Span-
ish ships had participated in
the explorations. But England
was growing ambitious to be-
come a sea power. Further-
more Spain and England were
unfriendly to each other as
the result of a quarrel between
the King of Spain and the
English ruler, who was none
other than Queen Elizabeth.
She had given her consent
permitting Sir Francis Drake
to seize, rob and destroy
Qr,^..:.k .t.;^. :„ A^»:^<... sie fbamcis drake
opanisri snips in American
waters. On this voyage, though his flagship, the "Gold-
en Hind," became separated from four of his fleet,
Drake attacked Spanish ships in harbors and on the high
seas, robbing them of silver, gold, and rich cargoes. Upon
landing at Drake's Bay, which is believed to be the inlet a
few miles northvrest of Golden Gate, he took possession of
the adjacent land for England, calling it New Albion.
Fearing to return by the route he came, Drake boldly sailed
across the ocean, rounded the Cape of Good Hope, and won
the distinction of being the first Englishman to circumnavi-
gate the globe. When he arrived at London with his treas-
28 HISTORY OF OREGON
iire-Iaden ship, **thc Queen, declaring her approbation of
all that he had done,** conferred upon him the honor of
knighthood.
Cook Saik Through Bering's Strait In 1778, two
years after the declaration of American Independence, Cap^
tain James Cook, sailing under the British flag, discovered
the Sandwich Islands. Then he ssuled north, in search of
the legendary strait connecting the Pacific with the Atlantic.
Ocean. According to Dr. John Fiske, * 'Captain Cook first
saw a point which he called Cape Foulweather, and sailing
south from there he named Capes Perpetua and Gregory.
Thence he turned about to the northward and in the struggle
with adverse winds wais carried well out to sea, so that the
next land he saw was Cape Flattery.** He then entered
Nootka Sound which he also named. Following the coast
line northward, Captain Cook penetrated into the bay after-
wards known as Cook's Inlet. Upon failing to find a
passage in this direction, he sailed for Bering Strait. On
August 9 he named the north-eastermost point of the Asiatic
continent, Elast Cape; and to the northwestern extremity of
America he gave the name Cape Prince of Wales — both of
which he visited. Finding the passage interrupted by an
impenetrable wall of ice. Captain Cook returned to Hawaii,
where he was killed by a native August 14, 1 779.
Cook's Expedition Resulted in Fur Trade. When the
ships of which Cook had been captain touched at C2uiton
on their return to England, the furs purchased of the Indians
at Nootka Sound were readily sold at many times the
cost price. Such was the profit, and so intense was the con-
sequent excitement on board ship, that the crews threatened
to mutiny when the officers refused to return to the Pacific
Northwest for more furs. As soon as the news of the fur
trade spread throughout Europe, trading ships were sent to
the northwest coast by England, France and Portugal; and
in the course of time ships from Spain and the United States
visited harbors in the fur bearing region.
EPOCH I
29
Ledyard Inipires Ammcan For Trade. On Captain
Cook's ship was a young American, John Ledyard by name.
He was an ambitious, restless fellow who after preparing for
missionary work, decided to be a seaman. He published
the first account of Cook's voyage. His book interested
Americans, 'who were thereby led to study Captain Cook's
report of the valuable furs which the Russian traders pur-
chased from the Indians for a few trinkets and sold at high
prices in the ready markets of Canton. Soon a company
in Boston equipped the "Columbia" and the "Washington" —
henceforth called "Lady Washington" — to carry on the fur
trade and explorations. On the 30th of September, 1787.
the two vessels started on their long voyage with John
Kendrick as Captain of the "Columbia" and Robert Gray
as Captain of the "Lady Washington." These two ships
were destined to carry the first American explorations and
fur trade along the Oregon coast.
Captain Gray as a For
Trader. After rounding Cape
Horn, the ships ran into heavy
seas, and lost sight of each
other. The "Lady Washing-
ton, touched at several points
along the coast, among which
evidently were Alsea Bay or
Yaquina Bay, and the anchor-
age at Cape Lookout. On the
I6lh of September, 1 788. she
arrived atNootkaSound where
"for many years all sea cap-
tains gathered to exchange the
latest information as to new
discoveries, etc," Here the
British vessel, "Northwest Am
John Meares, was launched — the first sea-going vessel built
on the Northwest Coast; and on the 27th of the same month
OAPT. BOBEET OaAT
constructed by Lieut.
30 HISTORY OF OREGON
the ''Columbia** anchored within forty yards of her consort
The **Lady Washington'* and the "Columbia** then pur-
chased furs at various harbors. It is said that sea-otter skin%
which were afterwards sold at Canton for $200 each were
purchased from the Indians at less than one diilling. In the
month of July the furs were placed aboard the "Colum-
bia.** Captain Robert Gray taking command of that ship,
sailed for China. ^ He sold the furs, purchased a cargo of tea,
and sailing around the Cape of Good Hope, arrived in Bos-
ton August 10, 1 790, after a voyage of 30,000 miles. The
officers and owners were entertained by Governor Hancock
with fitting hospitality; and the hopeful owners planned a
second voyage.
The ^'Columbia/' a Historic Ship. In addition to what
has been said of the "Columbia,*' the following from **The
Memorial History of the City of New York** by James Grant
Wilson is of value: "The ship, the "Empress of China,** Cap-
tain John Green, sailed (from New York) February 22,
1 784, Washington's birthday. She carried the original flag^
of the United States adopted in 1777. The flag, first flown
on the Pacific Coast in 1 784, was taken round the world by
the "Columbia in 1 789-90." It is noteworthy that the
"Columbia** was the first American ship to circumnavigate
the globe; that she was the first ship of our nation to carry
our flag around the earth; and that the flag which she carried
^Captain Gray's Bill of Lading. The following bill of lading,
signed by Captain Gray, illustrates the seriousness of going to sea
in 1790:
"Shipped by the grace of God, in good order and condition, by
Shaw and Randall, in and upon the good ship called the "Columbia,"
whereof is master under God for this present voyage, Robert Gray,
and now riding at anchor at Whampoa and by God's grace boimd
for Boston in- America^to say, 220 chests Bohea tea, 170 half-
chests, do, 144 quarter-chests do. To be delivered unto Samuel Park-
man, Esq., or to his assigns; and so God send the good ship to her
desired port in safety. Amen. Dated in Canton, February 3, 1790.
(Signed) Robert Gray."
1CAP7AIK SKAT'S IXAQ
was the original American flag adopted in 1777. Hence the
original flag of our nation was the first American flag to
circumnavigate the earth; and it is a curious fact that the
ship which bore this flag
was yet to add to her
fame by entering the wa-
ters of the Oregon on a
mission of discovery two
years later and by giving
her fair name to that ma-
jestic river.
Gray Discover* the
Colambta River. The Co-
lumbia was thoroughly
overhauled and rcHtted
as e X p e d i t i ously as
possible. Sea letters were grantet) by President Washington,
Governor Hancock, and the foreign consul in Boston. The
ship left Boston harbor September 28, 1 790, and arrived
at Clayoquot, June 4, 1 791. During the summer of I 791
Gray traded in the harbors along the Pacific coast. The
following winter he built the "Adventure" in Clayoquot har-
bor. May 7, 1792, he discovered Gray's Harbor; and four
days later he entered the Columbia River. The following
^^ount of thp discovery is given by T. C. Elliott in the
"After three days spent in Gray's (Bulfinch) Harbor.
Captain Robert Gray in the ship "Columbia" on the I 1th of
May, 1 792, at 4:00 A. M. sighted the entrance of the river
'bearing east-south-east, distance six leagues.' The ship's
log states: 'At eight A. M. being a little to the windward of
the entrance of the Harbor, bore away and run in east-
'A replica of this flag, also Captaio Gray'e sea cheat with other
property of the ship "Columbia" are in the Oregon Historical Society
Museum at Portland.
32 HISTORY OF OREGON
north-east between the breakers, having from five to tevoi
fathoms of water. When we were over the bar we found
this to be a large river of fresh water, up whi<^ we steered.*
THE "COLUMBIA'
At one o'clock that afternoon he emchored one-half mile
from the north bank just west of Point Ellice, northwest of
Astoria, and close to a large village of Chinook Indians.
EPOCH I
33
There he proceeded to fill his casks with fresh water from
the river, this being possible because the freshets were then
on. A day or ao later he sailed twelve or fifteen miles
further up the river, following a narrow channel along the
north dde, until the ship grounded.
"On the 20th he sailed out of the river, having mean-
time dropped down to an anchorage near Chinook Point
(Fort Coltmibia), and his log gives more details: 'Gentle
breezes and pleasant weather. At I P. M. (being full sea)
took up the anchor and made sail, standing down river. At
two the wind left us, we being on the bar with a very strong
tide which set on the breakers; it was now not possible to
get out without a breeze to shoot her across the tide; so we
were obliged to bring up in three and a half fathoms, the
tide running five knots. At three-quarters past two a fresh
wind came in from seaward; we immediately came to sail
and beat over the bar, having from five to seven fathoms
of water in the channel. At five P. M. we were out,
clear of all the bars, and in twenty fathoms of water. A
breeze came from the southward; we bore away to the
northward; set sail to the best advantage. At eight Cape
Hancock bore southeast distant three leagues'.'*
Tlie Et^lish Explore the Co-
lumbia. The Spanish, the English
and the Russians had expressed
doubt as to the possibility of enter-
ing the Columbia with a ship. But
when it was announced thatCaptain
Gray had sailed on its waters. Lieu-
tenant Wm. R. Broughton under
orders from Captain George Van-
couver, of the British Royal Navy,
set SEtil in the armed tender "Chat-
ham" from Puget Sound for the Co-
lumbia, and sailed into the river. "Lieutenant Broughton
left the 'Chatham' at anchor off what is now the Quarantine
34 HISTORY OF OREGON
Station opposite Astoria, October 24th and ascended the
river with most of the crew in two boats, the "Pinnace" and
"Cutter," to a point above Washougal, making observations
and soundings, and bestowing names upon islands and tribu-
tary streams along the vray.
Mount Hood Named and Eiqilored. On October 30.
1 792, Lieutenant Broughton, while on this expedition up the
Columbia, named Mount Hood, which is 11,225 feet in
elevation, being the highest Oregon peak. It is in the Cas-
MOITNT HOOD CipTright by Griffitb.
cade Range, and its summit is about 20 miles from the
Columbia River as the crow flies. It was named for Alex-
ander Arthur Hood, afterwards Lord Brinport, of England,
a personal friend of Vancciuver. For a time it was known
among Americans as Mount Washington. The mountain
EPOCH I 35
was explored by General Joel Palmer, soon after arriving
upon his first visit to Oregon in 1 845. The ascent of Mount
Hood was made (1854) by Judge Cyrus Olney, Major
Granville O. Haller, U. S. A., Thomas J. Dryer, Wells Lake,
Captain T. O. Travailot, Samuel K. Barlow, and an Indian
guide. In August, 1867, the first white women ascended
the mountain. They were the Misses Fannie Case, Mary
Robinson, and Lucy Hay. Although prior to 1845 it was
regarded an impossibility to ascend Mount Hood, the sum-
mit has come to be the annual playground of the Oregon
Meizamas and other mountain climbers.
Naming the Columbia River. The Columbia River has
been known by various names. It was called **Wauna" by
the Indians.** The Spaniards called it *'La Roque,*' (or La
Roc), from the cape near the entrance of the river into the
ocean. It was then known as *'Thegayo** and later as'**Rio de
Aguilar.*' But the Americans first thought of it as the **River
of the West." Jonathan Carver, as early as 1 778, referred
to it 218 the * 'Oregon,*' a name which it is believed he heard
while among the Indians near the Greait Lakes. Afterwards
it was called the * 'Columbia** by Captain Gray, in honor of
the good ship that first sailed upon its waters.
36 HISTORY OF OREGON
I
CHAPTER II
THE DISCOVERY OF OREGON BY LAND
"Never did a single event excite more joy throughout the
United States." — Thomas Jefferson.
Importance of the Mbsissippi to the Americans. The
most important navigable river in the Louisiana territory
was the Mississippi. Horses and cattle that the American set-
tlers raised were annually driven east to Atlantic markets,
but grain and other produce were put on barges, which
floated down the Mississippi to ports that were visited by
merchant ships of Spain and France. So important was the
Mississippi river to the farmers along its banks that there
arose a fear that the river would eventually be used by sub-
jects of Spain only, and many American settlers threatened
to sever their allegiance to their country. This feeling of
insecurity among the Americans along the Mississippi River
was intensified in 1800 when Napoleon, by a secret
treaty, obtained Louisiana from Spain. The treaty was
so very secret that Americans were naturally eJarmed lest
Napoleon's plan of a world empire might include the
Mississippi Valley and thereby prove a menace to the United
States. No one understood the situation better than did
President Thomas Jefferson.
Jefferson's Designs. To avert the danger of war and
preserve the Union, President Jefferson designed two meas-
ures of far-reaching statesmanship. The first was a proposal
to purchase from Napoleon the City of New Orleans and
the adjacent land on the east bank of the Mississippi, known
as West Florida. This would insure commercial freedom
to the West and soothe the irritation of the settlers. Jeffer-
son's second design was to dispatch an overland exploring
expedition up the Missouri River to the Pacific. By this
he hoped to accomplish several desirable objects, to-wit:
to build up friendly trade with the Indians along the Missouri
and westward to the mountains; to attre^ct the fur tr?^de of
EPOCH I
37
the Noithweat Coast eastward by the overland route; to
hasten the settlement of the Mississippi Valley by American
pionee^ and thus forestall the
intrigues of the English and
the French; to balk the ad-
vance of the Northwest Com-
pany in the region of the
Upper Missouri and Columbia
Rivers; to establish intimate
commercial relations between
the East and the developing
West; and last, but by no
means least, among the mo-
tives which actuated Jeffer-
son, to satisfy his keen scien-
tific curiosity and promote the
science of geography."
(Story of Oregon.)
Purchace erf Loaisiana. peesident thomas jbffeksok
At the beginning of the year
1803, Jefferson began the execution of both these designs.
He dispatched Monroe to France to negotiate with Napo-
leon for the purchase of New Orleans and West Florida, and
he'sent Congress the famous message ^hich outlined the
rilan of the expedition to the Pacific. Congress received the
/ message on January 1 8, 1 803, and promptly voted the
f necessary funds. The negotiations with Napoleon succeed-
ed beyond expectations. Busied with new combinations in
European affairs, the great leader of France offered to sell
the whole of Louisiana to the United States, hoping thus to
upbuild a formidable military and commercial rival to Eng-
land, his implacable foe. Jefferson leaped at the amazing
opportunity, and with one stroke of his pen made America
an imperial nation, and insured to democratic institutions
the scepter of the world." — (The Story of Oregon.)
36
HISTORY OF OREGON
President Jeffenon'i Eitimate (rf the Oregon Expedi-
tion. In his message, January 18, 1803, President Jefferson
said to Congress: "An intelligent officer with ten or twelve
men fit for the enterprise and willing to undertake it, might
explore the whole line, even to the Western Ocean, have
conferences with the natives on the subject of commercial
intercourse, get admission among them for our traders, as
other traders are admitted, agree on a convenient deposit
for an interchange of articles, and return with the informa-
tion acquired, in the course of two summers.
Lewis and Clark Placed in Command of the Expedition.
Congress voted only twenty-five hundred dollars for the
expedition to the West. But, inasmuch as the purchasing
power of money then was three times greater than at the
present time. Congress was much more liberal with the ex-
MEKIWETEEB LEWIS
WlUJJUf CUIBE
plorers than would at first appear. Jefferson placed Meri-
wether Lewis in charge of the expedition. Lewis, who had
been the President's private secretary, ^aa thirty years of
age, robust of constitution, accustomed to outdoor life, well
EPOCH 1
39
infonned, and upright and considerate with others. Lewis
selected William Clark as his coadjutor and comrade. The
expedition was, therefore, organized under two captains.
Both men had received military training. Both knew how
to command and to obey. Both were eminently qualified
for the undertaking.
The Party Assembled at St. Louis. The party of ex-
plorers consisted of tv^o commanders, eighteen soldiers, nine
Kentucky hunters, Clark's negro, and two French interpre-
ters. There were also sixteen other soldiers who accom-
panied the expedition the first season. They spent the
winter of 1803-4 at the mouth of the river Du Bois,
(Illinois) building boats and gathering information and ma-
terial for the journey.'
'Oregon Fostered by Missouri.
Although various states contributed
to the development and growtli ot
Oregon, Missouri led them all. Mis-
souri was the principal supply sta-
tion — the Half Way House — for the
early emigrants to Oregon. Among
the First to understand the situation
and to advocate American occupa-
tion and poascaaion of Oregon was
Thomas H. Benton, of Missouri.
Later Senator Lewis F. Linn, of
Missouri, urged military possession
of the Columbia and a territorial
government in Oregon. When some
of the other states were In doubt,
Missouri was firm. In befriending
and nourishing the interests of Ore-
gon, and urged the settlement of
the new territory so that It might
become American by occupation as
well as by discovery. At the outset
a vast number ot emigrants came
from Missouri to build homes in Oregon. It will, therefore, be seen
that Missouri in developing her own interests as a supply station
for the far West, helped magnificently in the outset to develop Ore-
gon. Consequently, Oregon grew aa a. by-product of Missouri much
the same as Missouri grew of Kentucky, Kentucky of Virginia, and
Virginia of England.
SEHATOa THOMAS I
BENTON
40 HISTORY OF OREGON
The Journey Begun. Having made ample preparation,
the Lewis and Clark party began their long voyage up the
Missouri on the 14th of May. 1804. On the 25th day of
May they came to LaCharette, the home of Dsoiiel Boone,
the famous Kentucky hunter, and they passed the Kansas
and the Platte June 5 th and 14th respectively. Conforming
to the suggestions of President Jefferson, the party held
councils of peace with the Indian chiefs wherever possible.
Probably the most important council was held with the
Missouris and Ottos at Council Bluffs. The journey was
steadily continued till the end of October, when the party
arrived at the Mandan village near what is the City of
Bismark, capital of South Dakota. Here they went into
winter quarters.
Their Winter at Mandan. The Lewis and Clark party,
while established in winter quarters at the Mandan^ village,
gathered much valuable information from the Indians.
They built a fort in the shape of the letter V. It was made
of elm and cottonwood logs. They made reports of their
explorations thus far, and they completed preparations for
their journey in the spring. They also negotiated a treaty
of peace and friendship between the Mandans and the
Ricarees' who had been enemies of long standing.
Sacajawea.^ At the Mandan village W2is found Saca-
jawea, **The Woman Pilot, who was bom not to die.*' When
a child she had been taken into captivity from the Shoshones
i"The Mandan tribe contained about two thousand persons. As
a tribe it was almost extinguished by small-pox, in 1838, the
few whom the pestilence spared being made captives by the Ric-
arees, who took possession of their village. This the Sioux soon
after attacked, and in the thick of the fight the unhappy Mandans
rushed out beyond the pickets and called upon the Sioux to kill
them, for they were Ricaree dogs, their friends were all dead, and
they did not wish to live. They fell upon their besiegers at the
same time with such impetuosity, that they were to a man de-
stroyed." — Catlin's "North American Indians."
2Also spelled "Ricaras."
»Also "Sacagawea."
by an unfriendly Indian tribe, and had been sold into slav-
ery; and now at the age of urteen was the wife of M. Cha-
boneau. the French trader. Because she and her husband
were somewhat familiar with
the country and the people
along the route to be pur-
sued, they were engaged as
guides and interpreters by
Lewis and Qark, and were
permitted to accompany the
expedition to the Pacific
Ocean. While they were of
service to their employers all
the while, Sacajawea proved
of incalculable value to the
white explorers by bringing
about peaceful relations be-
tween them and her people
— the Shoshones.
Journey Remmed in Spring.
On the 7th day of April,
1805, the Lewis and Clark party resumed their journey up
the Missouri in search of its source. Much game, such as
buffalo, deer, grizzly bear and elk, was seen along the way.
Interesting encounters with grizzlies were experienced; and
on one occasion the explorers while proceeding up stream
were delayed until a herd of buffalo was given time to cross.
Later it was decided to divide the expedition into two par-
ties. Anxious to overtake the Shoshone Indians, who were be-
lieved to be ahead of them. Captain Lewis, with three men,
went on up the Jefferson River, while Captain Clark and his
party followed with the canoes and luggage in a more leisure-
ly manner. On the 12th of August the Lewis party drank
from the fountain head of the Missouri River. Then crossing
the summit, they drank from another spring; and they re-
42 HISTORY OF OREGON
joiced, for the spring was one of the sources of the Lewis
River, one of the arms of the Columbia, which they were
seeking. After an extended detour Captain Lewis and his
three men in company with some Indians returned to the
Forks of the Jefferson, where they met Captain Clark and
party. When Sacajawea saw the Indians, "she began to
dance and show every mark of the most extravagant joy,
sucking her fingers and pointing to the Indians to indicate
that they were of her native tribe.**
Sacajawea Discovers the Chief to be Her Brother.
The dramatic meeting of Sacajawea and her brother, which
took place on the Jefferson River, August 1 7th, is described
by Mrs. Eva Emery Dye in the * 'Conquest" as follows:
'*Sacajawea could not wait. In her anxiety she begged
to walk along shore, and with her husband went up to the
rivulet of her childhood. She flew ahead. She turned,
pirouetting lightly on her beaded moccasins, waving her
arms and kissing her fingers. Her long hair flew in the wind
and her beaded necklace sparkled.
**Yes, there were the Indians, and Lewis among them,
dressed like an Indian too. The white men had given
everything they had to the Indians, even their cocked hats
and red feathers, and taken Indian clothes in exchange,
robes of the mountain sheep and goat.
**An Indian girl leaned to look at Sacajawea. They
flew into each other's arms. They had been children to-
gether, had been captured in the same battle, had shared
the same captivity. One had escaped to her own people;
the other had been sold as a slave in the Land of the
Dakotahs. As girls will, with arms around each other they
wandered off and talked of the wonderful fortune that had
come to Sacajawea, the wife of a white man.
**A council was immediately called. The Shoshones
spread white robes and hung wampun and pearls in the hair
of the white men.
* 'Sacajawea. Bring her hither," called Lewis.
EPOCH I 43
"Tripping lightly into the willow lodge, Sacajawea waa
beginning to interpret, when lifting her eyes to the chief,
she recognized her own brother, Cameahwait. She ran to
his side, threw her blanket over his head, and wept upon
his bosom.
**Sacajawea,^ too, was a Princess, come home now to
her Mountain Kingdom."
Suffering. The Indians^ rendered valuable service to
Lewis and Clark by trading horses to them for trinkets and
by manifesting much good will toward them in other ways.
But there were many difficulties to be overcome. One of
the immediate difficulties was the long distance they had to
travel in a northwest direction over an unknown route to
the Clearwater River before they could proceed by boats
westward. Also the party at times endured much suffering
brought on principally by the scarcity and inferior quality
of food and by unbalanced rations^ — their diet being roots,
horse meat, dogs, crows, and wolves in sparse supply. Their
Journal says: "Captain Lewis and two of the men were
taken ill last evening, and today he could hardly sit on his
horse, while others were obliged to be put on horseback;
and some from weakness and pain were forced to lie down
alongside the road. The weather was very hot and oppres-
sive to the party, most of whom were complaining of sick-
ness. Our condition indeed, made it necessary to husband
iln a letter to J. Q. Bowlby, of Astoria, Oregon, dated August 3,
1905, Newton J. Brown, postmaster of Landor, Wyoming, wrote : "I
myself have seen Sacajawea. She died about the year 1884, and
was buried near the Episcopal Church at Shoshone Agency."
2To indicate the struggle for existence among the natives in
that locality at that time, the following is taken from the Lewis and
Clark Journal: "Drewer, one of the white hunters had killed a deer.
When the Indians reached the place where Drewer had thrown the
entrails, they all dismounted in confusion and ran tumbling over
each other like famished dogs. Each tore away whatever part he
could, and instantly began to eat it. Some had the liver, some the
kidneys — in short, no part on which we are accustomed to look with
disgust escaped them.'
»
44
HISTORY OF OREGON
our remaining strength. It was detennined to proceed dovm
the river in canoes. Captain Clark, therefore, set out with
the Chief called 'Twisted Hair" and two young men in
quest of timber for canoes. Having resolved to go down
to some spot calculated for building canoes, we set out early
in the morning, and encamped on the low ground on the
south, opposite the forks of the river."
The Winter at Fort Clats<qi. Carried by the current in
canoes from October 7, Lewis and Clark reached the mouth
of the Columbia. November 1 I . Jefferson had instructed
them to "leam upon reaching the Pacific if there be any
OOLVMEIA SMOKE STACKS
port within your reach frequented by the sea vessels of any
nation, and to send two of your trusty people back by sea."
or if "the return of your party by the way they went will be
imminently dangerous, then ship the whole and return by
sea— either by Cape Horn or by the Cape of Good Hope."
Failing of an opportunity to return by sea. they built Fort
Clatsop on the Netal' River — now called the Lewis and
3"Netul" by some authors.
EPOCH I 45
Clark — about two miles above its mouth. Here they spent
the long dreary winter, killing elk and obtaining food by
FACBIMII.E OF F
whatever means they might, frequently trading with the
Indians for dogs and fish. Some of the party went a few
miles west, to where Seaside now is, to procure salt. Here
£ SALT CAISH
they constructed a salt cairn, which in recent years has
undergone restoration, but which is one of the oldest evi-
dences of civilization in the Pacific Northwest. The Lewis
and Clark party were well fortified in their fort; and as wood
was abundant, they were comfortable. The winter was
46 HISTORY OF OREGON
spent chiefly in making maps and completing the notes of
their joum^.
THE QBAHD TALLES OF THE COLUMBIA
Their Return. Being unable to sight a ship on which
the Lewis and Clark party could go home, they began
their return by land, March 2 3, 1 806. The funds set apart
for the expedition were nearly exhausted by this time. But
Lewis and Clark were skilled in the use and preparation of
herbs; and these remedies were bartered at prices corres-
ponding to those charged by the Indians for horses, dogs and
other necessities. The explorers were delayed by snow
in the Rocky Mountains. But they were strong and deter-
mined; hence they journeyed steadily until they arrived at St.
Louis exactly six months from the day they left Fort Clatsop.
Jefferson's Views of the Expedition. Upon the return
of Lewis and Clark, there was much rejoicing throughout the
United States over the success of their expedition; and the
President, who was inclined to be temperate in his state-
ments, said "Never did a single event excite more joy
throughout the United States. The humblest of its citizens
EPOCH I
47
had taken a lively ioterest in the issue of this journey, and
looked forward with impatience to the information it would
furnish. The anxieties, too, for the safety of the corps had
been kept in a state of excitement by lugubrious rumors
circulated from time to time on uncertain authorities, and
OBBGON XBAIL AHD KOUTE OF LEWIS AND CI.A.KK
contradicted by letters and other direct information from
the time they left Mandan towns, on their ascent up the river
in April of the preceding year, 1 605, until their actual return
to St. Louis."
48 HISTORY OF OREGON
CHAPTER III
INDIAN FOLK-LORE
"Red thunderbolts . . A flash! A thunderblast !
The clouds were rent, and lo! Mount Hood stood white and vast!"
The folk-lore of the Indians in the Oregon Country —
rich in myths, legends, creative stories, and traditions — ^has
been compared with that of the Greeks prior to the age of
Homer. The stories, repeated by these simple people at
their camp fires, were so interesting that the whites recite
them to this day.
Not only is Oregon Indian folk-lore entertaining, but
it also has a certain educational value. It gives correct
ideas of the more serious things which the primitive people
of our land believed and discussed, such as their theories
concerning the beginnings of things — the creation of moun-
tains, of men, of birds and fish and beasts. In this respect
their folk-lore w^as their unwritten Book of Genesis. Hence
it is worthy of careful study. That the reader may obtain
a glimpse of the intellectual and spiritual life of the Oregon
aboriginese, a few Indian myths have been selected from
Lyman's **History of Oregon" and other sources.
Legend of the Cascades
When man came to dwell upon the earth there was
peace and plenty everywhere. No winter, no poverty, no
sickness marred his happiness. But with his children came
quarrels; because the two eldest sons claimed an undue por-
tion of the inheritance which the father had bequeathed. To
quiet their dissensions the Great Spirit decided to take the
children to a new home which was toward the rising sun.
So while they slept one night, he carried them to the top
of a great mountain chain which sloped to the east and to
the west. Then he bade the two sons to shoot arrows to-
ward the sky, saying to each that wherever his arrow fell
there he was to make his home. The sturdy young warriors
STORIES OF THE CREATION 49
obeyed. One of their arrows fell to the eastward in the
Klickitat country, and the other to the westward in the
Willamette Valley; and each son made his home where his
arrow fell. But the descendants of these sons grew wicked,
and the Good Spirit was sorely grieved. So to punish them
he brought about a period of cold and hunger lasting many
seasons, and among all the people only one woman had
fire in her wigwam. No one could take it from her, for she
alone had proved faithful. Then the people became fright-
ened and repented of their wrong-doing and besought the
Great Spirit to send them fire. He heard their cry and bade
the old woman give them fire, promising as a reward any
favor she might desire. Being a woman, she asked for
youth and beauty, which were granted upon the condition
that she would keep a fire forever burning upon the bridge
which the Great Spirit had built across the river that flowed
between the two tribes. The people were so happy over
the return of fire and warmth that they made all manner
of promises to live better. Then the old woman gathered
sticks and kindled a fire upon a flat stone on the bridge, and
straightway she became a beautiful maiden. With the re-
turn of youth and beauty came suitors; and, like many an-
other so gifted, she kept them in suspense — particularly two,
one from the south and the other from the north. Growing
jealous of each other these swains quarreled, ajid their re-
spective tribes engaged in warfare. Then the Great Spirit
became angry and broke down the bridge which had been
a symbol of peace; and he changed the two warriors into
Mount Hood and Mount Adams; and the enraged moun-
tains shot fire and rocks at each other. The maid. Loo-wit,
was also transformed into a mountain; but she retained her
loveliness as Mt. St. Helens, which is regarded by many as
the most beautiful among the snow-capped peaks of the
Cascade Range.
5 INDIAN FOLK-LORE
The Coyote and the Three Witches
Observing some men exposed to the cold, the coyote
resolved to get fire for them. The fire was on the summit
of a high mountain, where it was so closely guarded by three
witches that no one except the coyote thought it could be
taken from them. But when the witches were carelessly
changing vigils, the sly coyote seized a brand of fire and
disappeared. Soon he was pursued, and all but overtaken.
Indeed, one witch had the tip of his tail in her grasp, leaving
the tip white to this day. At that moment the coyote caught
up with the fox, who took the brand and went on. The witch
then closely pursued the fox who came up with the wolf in
time to pass the fire to him. All the animals were in turn
brought in and pursued down to the frog, which took the
fire, now a mere coal, and hopped away. The witch soon
caught up with him, and grasped the tail; but the frog gave
a desperate leap, and escaped, leaving his tail in the witch's
hand — so that to this day frogs have no tails. Soon the
frog was overtaken again, and would have given up the
precious coal of fire, but, for the fact that he spit it out upon
a stick of wood, and the wood quickly absorbed it. The
witch did not know how to get it out of the wood, but the
coyote did. He therefore instructed men to bring forth fire
by rubbing sticks together, and from that day mankind has
had the use of fire.
The Coyote on the Klamath
A coyote was roving through the Klamath Country,
where rabbits were plentiful. But the salmon failed to come
up the river that year, hence the people were in want of fish.
The coyote had learned from some source that monsters
called Skookums had built a dam over which the fish could
not pass up stream. Because he was a friend of the people
and an enemy of the Skookums, he made a vow that **before
many days, enough fish would come up the river to give
men, women and children, and even the dogs all the food
they could eat."
STORIES OF THE CREATION 5 1
He went to the dam which the Skookums had built;
and with the craftiness of his cousin, the fox, he waited till
one of the Skookums approached to guard the place, and
he sprang upon her. When she fell, the coyote instantly
opened the gate, letting the sw^arming salmon pass through
on their way up the river. He then broke down the dam,
and since that time fish have gone every year to the upper
stream, so that all the people may be fed.
The Five Thunders
The North Wind, the South Wind and the Five Thun-
ders were ancient gods. They were very fierce and killed
people. They tore up trees also. But one day Skel (Mar-
ten) put on the North Wind's hat and the Five Thunders
fought each other, tied together by the hair, until each of
the Thunders' hearts exploded with a terrific noise. Then
the combatants vanished into the sky with a bright flash of
light where sometimes we can hear them roar even yet; but
they do not often destroy, nor kill.
Tallapus and the Cedar Tree
One time Tallapus,^ the friend of man, went on a
journey from the country of the Tillamooks to the country
of the Clatsops. He walked along through the forest look-
ing at the trees and plants, and suddenly came to a big
hollow cedar. There was an opening in one side of the
tree and he thought, what an amusing thing it would be to
get within. So he gave the command, **Open, O Cedar
Tree!" and the tree opened and he stepped inside and said,
**Shut, O Cedar Tree!" The tree closed ageun and the
Tallapus laughed to himself, thinking it a good joke for a
man to live in a tree. Pretty soon he wished to resume his
journey, so he commanded the tree to open, and he stepped
out. But he thought, **Maybe 1*11 never come this way again,
I'd like to go inside once more." So he went in a second
lAlso " 'Tall-a-pus."— Fred H. Saylor.
52 INDIAN FOLK-LORE
time, came out and went in again. But the third time the
tree refused to open; and pound and kick as he would, he
could not get out. Then he called on the birds to help him.
The little wren came first but her bill was not strong enough
to make a hole. All the other birds came and pecked at the
trunk of the tree, and finally the big wood-pecker made a
hole large enough to see through. The Tallapus being too
big to crawl through the hole tore himself to pieces and
tossed the pieces out of the opening. When the pieces were
all out, he put himself together again. But a crow had
flown off with his eyes; so he was blind. He felt his way
along the trail and presently met an old woman who ridi-
culed him. He took courage, however, and having put
two roses in place of his eyes he offered to trade with her,
declaring he could see things that she could not. To this
the simple-minded old woman was quite willing. There-
upon he took her eyes and in exchange gave her his worth-
less roses. For her foolishness she was changed into a snail ;
and even now w^e have blind snails.
How the Birds Came to Have Bright Colors
The summer was passing and the winds blew colder
and colder and the green leaves were changed to gorgeous
colors till the trees looked like great flaming torches. The
mother tree sorrowed as she thought of the leaves that
would soon fly away from her; and the Great Spirit was
moved with pity as he looked down and beheld the bright
colors that would fade and be lost. So when the strong
wind loosened their hold and the leaves fluttered to the
ground he gave them new form and new life, and the brown
leaves became robins and wrens, and the red ones red birds;
and they builded their nests in the branches of the mother
tree where they once danced so merrily in the breeze.
CHAPTER IV
-, i^^£^~ ^^- OREGON
j-^j*^^ ' COLONIZED
With the purchase of
Louisiana, and the discovery of the Oregon
Country, the United States ol America cJaimed a
vast territory in the west that was not occupied by
white people. It was impracticable, therefore, at that time,
to develop great farms, and thriving cities on the newly
acquired possessions. But there was an excellent opportu-
nity to extend the fur trade to the Oregon Country, This
opportunity the Americans and the British sought to im-
prove. Hence many incidents of historic value took place
during Epoch 11.
Efforts to Establish Trading Forts. The Oregon Coun-
try having been reached both by sea and by land, the settle-
ment of the Columbia River naturally came to be a matter
of public interest. The first attempt to establish a trading
fort in the Oregon Country was made by the Missouri Fur
Company, which founded a trading post on the Henry
branch of Lewis River in 1809. It continued somewhat
over a year and was abandoned because of Indian difficul-
ties. The second attempt at establishing a trading post in
5 4 HISTORY OF OREGON
the Oregon Country was a Boston venture planned by Abiel
Winship, a merchant whose brother Jonathan as master of
the vessel **0'Cain** had visited the Pacific Coast on a trad-
ing expedition. It was decided by the Winship partners to
form a stronger company, send a ship to the Columbia, and
proceeding up the river find a suitable location for trading
and cultivation, and there establish a settlement. The ship
chosen for the voyage was the ** Albatross," which was
placed under the command of Nathan Winship, a brother
of the chief promoter of the enterprise. The **Albatross'*
sailed via the Sandwich Islands, where the Captain took on
board a number of Kanakas and some supplies, and then
proceeded to the Columbia, which he entered May 26, 1810.
Captain Winship went up the river forty miles to a point
on the south side, where he caught sight of some oak
trees, beautifully located ; and he named it Oak Point. This
was on the bank opposite the present village of Oak
Point. He decided to build a two-story log house at that
place to serve as a fort, as well as a warehouse; and it was
his purpose to cultivate the land close by. The little
company hewed logs and made other preparation for the
structure, but the June flood threatened to overflow the
locality, and the Indians grew troublesome; so the
Capteun "concluded not to build, but to trade with the
Indians along the coast, and leave for future decision the
question of building the fort. " i hus were begun and thus
abandoned the first two attempts to establish trading posts
in the Oregon Country.
The "Tonquin" Enters the Columbia. The next at-
tempt to establish a trading fort in Oregon vras a New York
venture. With the purpose of capturing the Oregon fur
trade and establishing a trading fort on the Columbia, John
Jacob Astor, of New York City, organized the Pacific Fur
Company with the central station at Astoria. September
6, 1810, the "Tonquin" was given safe conduct from New
EPOCH II
55
York out to sea by the historic battleship "Constitution."
She arrived off the mouth of the Columbia, March 22, 1811.
and three days later rode
safely into Baker's Bay with-
in ahelter of the Cape — the
ship having lost seven of her
crew in a hazardous effort to
find a channel across the bar.
Ast<MriB Founded. "On the
twelfth of April" according
to Gabriel Franchere, one
of Astor's clerks, "Astor'a
partners who had come on
the Tonquin,' began the
erection of a log fort on the
south side of die Columbia
River on a point which was
christened 'Astoria,' in honor
of the founder and chief
promoter of the enterprise,
a name now borne by a thriving commercial city, which
marks the spot where America first planted her foot squarely
TOHH JACOB ASTOK
ABTOBIA IK leil
5 6 HISTORY OF OREGON
upon the disputed territory of Oregon. The site of the fort
was about one hundred yards south of the shore line of the
bay inland from the O. R. N. docks. A store-house was
built and the supplies landed. The significance of the
founding of Astoria as viewed at that time is fully explained
in a communication from President Jefferson to John Jacob
Astor, as follows:
**I considered as a great public acquisition the commence-
ment of a settlement on that point of the western coast of
North America, and looked forward with gratification to
the time when its descendants should have spread themi-
selves through the whole length of that coast, covering it
with free and independent Americans, unconnected with us
except by the ties of blood and interest, and enjoying like
us the rights of self-government."
Tragedy of the "Tonquin.** On the fifth of June, be-
fore the fort was completed. Captain Thome ssdled north-
ward to Clayoquot harbor, near the Strait of Fuca, to engage
in trade with the Indians and to cultivate friendly relations
with the Russian settlements. Like Christopher Columbus,
Captain Thorne of the**Tonquin" was an able navigator; but,
like Columbus, he did not know how to govern civilized
men, and knew less how to deal with savages. Consequently
while his ship was in Clayoquot harbor in search of fur trade,
the Captain needlessly offended one of the leading chiefs
whereupon the natives returned to their village. Early
the next day, however, about five hundred came
back, their pretended friendship concealing murderous de-
signs. They fell upon the unsuspecting crew killing all but
five. Four of these were captured upon making an
effort to escape, while the fifth, who w€is wounded, re-
mained on board ship. It is believed that like Samson of
old, the wounded man in a final effort destroyed himself
and his enemies; for the good ship, crowded with the enemy,
was blown to atoms by an ignited powder magazine. Not
EPOCH II 57
one of the **Tonquin"^ crew was left to tell the story of the
ill-fated ship.^
The Ship "Beaver" Arrives at Astoria. The Astor Com-
pany promptly equipped the sailing ship * 'Beaver** to take
the place of the lost **Tonquin.*' The **Beaver" landed at
Astoria with abundant supplies May 10, 1812. The Com-
pany planned rival establishments to all North-West Com-
pany trading posts on the Columbia River and its tribu-
taries; and it seemed for a time that the Astor fur traders
would prosper in the Oregon Country. But as will be seen
there was much trouble in store for them.
Astoria Christened as Fort George. Late in the year
1812, some of the Astor partners were told that a war was
raging between Great Britain and the United States, and
that the North-West Company expected a British ship to cap-
ture Astoria. Resolving to abandon the Columbia River,
they sold the belongings of the Pacific Fur Company at a
sacrifice to the North-West Company, October 16, 1813.
On the 30th of November the long expected **Raccoon,**
a British sloop-of-war, was seen near Cape Disappointment;
on the 12th of December, the American flag was hauled
down to give place to the Union Jack, and the name of the
station was changed to Fort George.
Amorica Seeks Possession of Oregon. After the War
of 1812 had ended, it was natural that America should
desire Oregon's restoration. Americans were the first to
enter the Columbia River. Americans had purchased Louisi-
ana, which connected the states with the Oregon Country;
had founded Astoria; had sent the Lewis and Clark expedi-
tion overland to Oregon; had looked upon Oregon as the
territory of the United States; and had come to have a
patriotic interest in the Oregon Country. Therefore, the
American Secretary of State, in July, 1815, notified the
British minister at Washington that the Americans woul
iFor fuller account of the "Tonquin" disaster see Irving's "Astoria."
5 8 HISTORY OF OREGON
again occupy the Columbia. Two years later, September
1817, our government ordered Captain Biddle of the
* 'Ontario** to go to Astoria and assert the claims of the
United States to the Oregon country in a friendly an
peaceable manner.
American Title to Oregon Acknowledged. At once
the British minister registered objections to the request of
the Americans. In the treaty of peace which was now
signed, the two nations agreed that they would restore
the territory they had taken from each other during the war.
The British minister, however, claimed that Astoria was not
taken during the war, but that it was purchased by British
subjects. In answer, the American Secretary claimed Ore-
gon: first, as a portion of the Louisiana Purchase from
France; second, by reason of the discovery of the Columbia
by Captain Gray; third> by reason of the Lewis and Clark
expedition; fourth, the establishment by the Pacific Fur
Company of the forts of Astoria, Okanogan,^ and Spokane,
and by other rights. The Secretary further argued that the
American traders sold their stock in Astoria through fear
of a British man-of-war which threatened to enter the har-
bor. After a sharp conflict of words, however, the Ameri-
can flag was permitted to float over Astoria, October 6th,
1818. While American rights to Oregon were thus ac-
knowledged, the north boundary line was yet to be de-
termined.
Joint Occupation of Oregon. The Oregon Question
was again discussed by the diplomatic representatives of
Great Britain and America, October 20, 1818, the British
claiming the Columbia as the north boundary of Oregon,
and the Americans claiming the forty-ninth parallel as the
true boundary. Therefore the Oregon Question involved
the territory lying between the Columbia River and the
present north boundary of the United States. The repre-
lAlso "Okanagan.
»>
EPOCH U
59
•entatives of both nations were firm in their contention; and
the American Government not being able to press her claims,
accepted a provision for the joint occupation of Oregon
for a term of ten years. This treaty resulted in enabhng
both nations to settle on land and to trade on equal stand-
ing in all parts of Oregon until the boundary question v^as
finally decided and American right to the Oregon Country
fully confirmed by Great Britain. The reader will find the
account of the final settlement of the Oregon boundary
question in Epoch 111.
Hall J. Kelley Advocates Occupation of Oregon.
A Boston schoolmaster by the name of Hall J. Kelley
performed an important part in keeping before the Ameri-
can people the question of Oregon occupation and settle-
ment. "As early as 161 5 he directed public attention to
the Oregon Country. He organized a land expedition in
1 628, but which failed in its
equipment. Then soon after
he urged the formation of an
expedition by sea with a view
of colonizing the Puget
Sound country. In this he
also failed to secure the
needful support."' In 1826
he organized the American
Society \vhich was incorpor-
ated by the State of Massa-
chusetts, for the settlement
of the Oregon Territory.
Two years later the society
presented a memorial to con-
gress setting forth that they
were engaged in the work of
opening to a civilized and virtuous population that part of
iBlttger Herman In "Louisiana Purchase and Our Title WeBt of
the Rocky Mountains."
HAI^ J. KELLET
60 HISTORY OF OREGON
Western America, called Oregon; and they asked congress
to aid them in carrying into operation the purposes of their
institution; to grant them military assistance; to make it
possible for settlers to get sufficient lands at the junction of
the Multnomah (Willamette) with the Columbia and "to
grant them such other rights and privileges as may contribute
to the means of establishing a respectable and prosperous
community/'
The Multnomah ToMmsite Project. Congress having
failed to encourage the scheme set forth by the society in
1831, the latter published an announcement which began
as follows: "Oregon Settlement to be commenced in the
Spring of 1832 on the delightful and fertile banks of the
Columbia river." The expedition was to start in March
1832. Upon their arrival in Oregon a town was to be laid
out at the juncture of the Columbia and Multnomah, and
each emigrant was to receive a town lot and a farm in that
locality; also a lot in a town at the mouth of the Columbia,
these places being already platted on paper. But congress
again failed to take action, and the plan failed. Kelley, in
1 832, set out for Oregon by way of Mexico. "In Calif omia
he fell in with Ewing Young in 1834." They drove a band
of horses to Oregon; but upon their arrival at Vancouver
(October 15, 1834) they found themselves accused of
horse stealing. Later they were exonerated by the Governor
of California. But Mr. Kelley having lost his health and
fortune in the effort to colonize Oregon returned to Massa-
chusetts the following March.
Movement to Settle Oregon. At this time American
right to Oregon consisted of a title without described boun-
dary lines. Furthermore, there were not enough Americans
in the Oregon Country to hold their territory. The situation,
therefore, gave rise to much solicitude throughout the states.
The Missouri Fur Company, in 1 808, made St. Louis a center
in fur trading. This trade gradually extended north and
westward. In 1822 General William H. Ashley sent out
EPOCH II
61
bands of trappers strong enough to withstand the attacks of
Indians. Later David Jackson, William Sublette and others
extNided the Missouri fur trade district to the Columbia
River, wdiere the trappers clashed with the North-West Fur
Company.
Union of the Two British Fur Companies. . Beginning
with the year 1 800 the rivalry between the North-West Com-
pany and the Hudson's Bay Company caused the reduction
of dividends and tended to the demoralization of the Indians
so that in June 1619, the question of rivalries and existing
disputes was brought before the British pariiament. Later
a compromise was effected and the two companies merged
into one. "In conjunction with this coalition" according to
H. H. Bancroft, "an act for regulating the fur trade and
establishing a criminal and civil jurisdiction in certain parts
of North America was passed by parliament July 2, 1821,
which consummated the union. The name of Hudson's Bay
Company was retained in
preference to the other by
reason of its age, respecta-
bility and charter."
Doctor McLoughlin Sent
to Oregon. "In 1824 the
new organization, called
the Hudson's Bay Com-
pany, sent out Dr. John
McLoughlin to take charge
of its business in the Co-
lumbia region. This re-
markable man had a gen-
ius for organization and
command. He was of a
resolute character with
great kindliness of disposi- db. john HcLoughuk
tion- He never tolerated the slightest disobedience in Hiq
62 HISTORY OF OREGON
vride domain and yet his subordinates seem to have mingled
genuine affection with unbounded respect for him. In deal-
ing with the Indians he first of all convinced them of his
power to enforce his will. When they became submisrive,
as they invariably did, he treated them with a mingling of
paternal severity and kindness which won their hearts and
made them the loyal servants of the Company. Doctor
McLoughlin was an excellent man of business, and an
admirable ruler over the wild country which had been
assigned to him and the adventurous characters who inhabit-
ed it, but he was much more than a mere man of business.
He was a far-sighted statesman, enlightened in conduct and
liberal in his opinions. He developed the fur trade in the
Oregon Country until it became the most profitable part of
the Company's vast domains. At Vancouver, ^here he
established his headquarters, he introduced farming and
stock raising, planted an orchard and built a saw mill and
a gristmill." — C. H. Chapman.
Chief Interest of the Hudson's Bay Company in Or^on.
The entire Northwest was rich in fur-bearing animals. "There
li
^HMp
fe
<9I
VAWOODVBE IK 1837
were bear, panther, lynx, muskrat, beaver, niarten, mink.
Otter, fox, wildcat, and numerous other animals whose pelts
could be obtained in vast quantities and ^hich commanded
extravagant prices in foreign markets. The Hudson's Bay
Company, becoming aware of the great value of this fur
supply, employed men — mostly French Canadians, who
married Indian women, lived the forest life, and earned
their niaintenance by securing pelts at lovr cost. As a result,
profits were so great that the Company tenaciously held its
claims in Oregon until the rich harvest of pelts was practical'
ly exhausted. During this time only a few farms, homes,
school -ho uses, churches or other colonial enterprises were
developed, as the fur trade constituted the chief interest of
the Hudson's Bay Company in Oregon."
"Setdement Begun. Doctor McLoughlin encouraged
a number of men ^ho had left the Company's service to
settle in Oregon, and aided them to establish farms. Trav-
elers, explorers, and men of science were always welcome
at the Vancouver fort. Even rival traders like Nathaniel
Wyeth were received politely, though Dr. McLoughlin knew
very vreW how to guard his comniercial interests against their
encroachments. Finally, when the missionaries began to
arrive and the trains of immigrants to follow them, although
McLoughlin must have foreseen the inevitable consequences
to the fur business and to the British Dominion, nevertheless
he sold, lent and often gave them supplies, relieved their
distress and encouraged them vfith vnae counsel. Doctor
McLoughlin was often misunderstood by the pioneers and
sometimes maligned, but the verdict of history will be that
64 HISTORY OF OREGON
he is clearly entitled to be called the "Father of Oregon'."'
Cr^ pt^in BonneviUe. One of the early adventurers in
Oregon was Captain Bonneville, whose experiencea as re-
lated by Washington Irving are familiar to the average
school boy. Bonneville was a native of France, a graduate
of West Point, and explorer of the
Rocky Mountains and far west,
(1831-6). By driving wagons
through the South Pass to Wind
River, Wyoming, in 1833, he did
much to establish the correctness of
Senator Benton's prediction that
Oregon would some day be connect-
ed by wagon road with the states.
But, according to Washington Irving,
Captain Bonneville's chief object in
pursuing this exploration was "to
make himself acquainted with the
country and the Indian tribes; it be-
ing one part of the scheme to establish a trading post some-
where on the lower part of the Columbia river, so as to par-
ticipate in the trade lost to the United States by the capture
of Astoria." He reached the Hudson's Bay trading posts.
Fort Walla Walla, (now Wallula), March 4, 1834. After
remaining a few days at the Fort, "he returned to the general
rendezvous for his various expeditions." In July of that
year the Captain being well equipped with trappers and
goods, started on a second expedition on the Columbia.
"He still contemplated the restoration of American trade
in this country. This time he passed through the Blue Moun-
tains by way of the Grand Ronde Valley and the Umatilla
River." But Captain Bonneville' vnis not a match for the
Hudson's Bay Company nor for the American fur traders,
hence his venture completely failed. Although he was un-
i"The Story of Oregon."
EPOCH 11 65
able to cope with these trading companies, his name has
been given to a town on the Columbia and his adventures
as a mountaineer have been chronicled in hisloiy and litera-
ture.
Wyeth Joumejrs Overland to Oregon. Among those
who became interested in the Oregon Country through the
literature circulated by Hall J. Kelley was Captain Nathaniel
J. Wyeth of Boston, who organ-
ized an overland expedition to
Oregon in IS3I. Also that
year he sent a ship around Cape
Horn to Oregon. In the spring
of 1832, Wyeth started over-
land from Boston reaching
Vancouver on October 29th of
the same year. The ship which
was to bring trade supplies hav-
ing been wrecked, he was com-
pelled to return to Boston to
provide another ship and secure
another cargo.
Wyeth's Second Vint to
Oregon. In the faU of 1833
Wyeth sent the Boston ship "May Dacre" with supplies
for the Columbia f?iver. In 1834, he made his second
overland journey, reaching Vancouver in September. The
"'May Dacre," having arrived too late for the salmon fishing
season, was sent with a cargo of timber to the Hawaiian
islands. His trading expedition failed, and Wyeth re-
turned to Boston.
Annual Indian Fairs. While Wyeth and other fur
traders were putting forth strenuous efforts to traffic with
the Indians, the natives were bartering extensively among
themselves. We leain from no less authority than Doctor
William McKay and Alexander Ross that when the first
NATHANIEL WYETH
66 HISTORY OF OREGON
trappers and traders came to Oregon, the Indians held great
fairs annually in the Yakima Valley, also at The Dalles and
at Yainax, which is near Klamath Lake. Various tribes sent
delegations to these fairs for the purpose of trade and festi-
val in such numbers that Ross reported as having seen in the
Yakima Valley a camp of native lodges covering six miles
square and containing three thousand people. Also Samuel
A. Clarke tells us in his * Pioneer Days of Oregon" that at
these fairs the Indians exchanged products, sold horses and
slaves, and carried on all manner of native commerce.
Everything that was for sale was placed on the market at
these annual gatherings where the natives gambled with all
the ardor of Indian nature. Trials of archery were held,
and there were races— on horse and afoot — the tribes wager-
ing their money, their horses, and sometimes their wives.
Feasting, orgies, and dancing took place. The heart of
some fierce enemy was exhibited with commendable pride.
It might be dried like a mummy encased in a deer skin
cover embroidered with bead work and porcupine quills.
Scalps were proudly displayed and the scalp dance was
planned regardless of expense. The most accomplished
warriors went through the maneuvers of battle, in a space
surrounded by a circle of drummers beating the time to
barbaric music. Around the fire, which was in the very
center, the principal warriors went through various evolu-
tions, uttering horrid cries, flourishing their arrows, hurling
their spears, brandishing their tomahawks, or performing
the pantomime of scalping their victims — every one partici-
pating, except the chiefs who were looking on with dignified
appreciation from their elevated canopies. Then the young
chiefs were paired off with the forest belles, who were chosen
to be brides and who were adorned with feathers, beads,
paint, nose quills, and rings for their fingers, ankles and
wrists. These were some of the features of the Indian fairs
that were annually held in the Oregon Coiuitry before it
was occupied by the white race.
EPOCH II
67
First School in the Pacific Northwest. We now con-
sider for the first time the education of children in the Ore-
gon Country. 7^e first school in the Pacific Northwest was
taught hy John Ball, of Boston, Massachusetts, who was a
graduate of Dartmouth College. Mr. Ball arrived with Na-
thaniel Wyeth at Fort Van-
couver in November, 1832.
Here, at the request of Doctor
McLoughlin, he taught school
beginning the following Janu-
ary I . Later he was a prosper-
ous farmer at Clatsop, where
he died in 1 890. aged 94. In a
letter to Elwood Evans, author
of the "History of the North-
west," Mr. Ball gave an ac-
count of that school:
'The scholars came in talk-
ing their respective languages
— Nez Perce; Chinook
Klickitat, etc. I could not
understand them, and when 1
called them to order, there
was but one who understood
me. As 1 had come from a land where discipline was ex-
pected in school management, 1 could not persuade myself
that 1 could accomplish anything without order. I there-
fore issued my orders, and to my surprise, he who under-
stood, joined issue with me upon my government in the
school. While endeavoring to impress upon him the neces-
sity of discipline and order in the school, and through him
making such necessity appreciated by his associates. Dr.
McLoughlin, chief factor, entered. To the Doctor I ex-
plained my difficulty. He investigated my complaint, found
my statements correct, and at once made such an example
of the refractory boy that I never afterward experienced
68 HISTORY OF OREGON
•
any trouble in governing. I continued in the school over
eighteen months, during which the scholars learned to speak
Elnglish. Several could repeat some of Murray's grammar
verbatim. Some had gone through arithmetic, and upon
review copied it — entirely. These copies were afterward
used as school books, there having been only one printed
copy at Fort Vancouver. The school numbered twenty-
five pupils."
Indians Ask for the White Man's Book of Heaven.
Lewis and Clark also French and English fur traders and
possibly native missionaries from eastern tribes had told the
Nez Perces that the greatness of the white people was due
to their religion. Hence some of the more intelligent Indians
naturally wanted to learn of the white man*s God. These
facts reached the attention of churches in the states and
accounts like the following were published so extensively
that missionary activity was greatly stimulated:
**The Nez Perces sent five of their leading men toward
the rising sun for the White Man*s Book of Heaven. Though
one of their number soon returned, the other four continued
their journey to St. Louis where they were kindly received.
For a time they experienced much difficulty in making their
wants known. When General Clark came to learn the pur-
pose of their visit, he reminded them that they had not yet
learned to read the Book, but that teachers would be sent
to their people, — -a promise which was soon made good by
churches and later by the government. The Indians were
treated as guests by General Clark ; but being unaccustomed
to indoor life, two of them died during the winter. When
spring came the remaining two departed for their tribal
home. But on the journey another died, leaving only one
to return to his people with the White Man's Book of
Heaven."
While historians differ somewhat as to the accuracy
of this and similar accounts, it is known that untutored
Indians from the Oregon Country visited St. Louis at van-
EPOCH II
69
OU8 times, dating as early as 1831, when this incident is
said to have taken place, and that these visits were freely
mentioned by churches in the development of the missionary
spirit which was influential in bringing the first permanent
white population, and in laying the foundation for public
education and for the present social system of Oregon.
The First Methodist Misnonaries to Oregon. News-
papers throughout the nation published accounts of the visit
made by the Indians to St. Louis. Also it was explained that
these Indians desired to be
taught the arts of peace.
These accounts appealed
to the churches, which had
enthusiastically accepted
"From Greenland's Icy
Mountains," written by
Bishop Heber. and a tre-
mendous missionary spirit
was aroused. Soon the
Methodist denomination
sent Rev. Jason Lee to the
Rathead Indians. He with
Rev. Daniel Lee, Cyrus
Shepard, P. L. Edwards,
and C. M. Walker, joined
Wyeth's overland party in
1834, sending their freight by Wyeth's ship "May Dacre."
Instead of going to the Flathead Indians as directed, the
missionary party under the advice of Doctor McLoughlin,
went to the Willametce Valley, locating a mission on the
Willamette River about «xty miles above its confluence
vnth the Columbia. Immediately they set about building
a house, a bam, fences and other things necessary to the
home life of people in a new country.
BEV. JASON LEE
70 HISTORY OF OREGON
Found White Settlers in the Willunette Valley. Here
the missionaries found about a dozen Canadian settlers with
Indian wives. The white settlers had been in the employ of
the Hudson's Bay Company; and, following the example of
Doctor McLoughlin, had chosen wives from among the
native women. In accordance with the policy of the Com-
pany these settlers received much encouragement from the
Doctor, ^ho desired their half-caste families to become use-
ful men and women. Also the Doctor gave much encourage-
ment to the missionaries while establishing their educational
work among the people.
JASON LEE'S MISSIOH~1334
First Mission School in Oregon. Soon after Rev. Jason
Lee arrived in the Willamette Valley he established the
Indian Mission School in a big log cabin on the east bank
of the Willamette River opposite what was later called
Wheatland. This was the first school south of the Columbia.
It was taught by Philip L. Edwards. Commencing with
only a few pupils, twenty-five more were brought in from
the settlers on French Prairie, and from native Indians, on
either side of the Cascade Mountains, until all the persons
at this mission amounted to thirty in number. These people
were all placed in one small house, None of them were
EPOCH II 71
accustomed to such confinement, all- having been brought
up in tents, tepees, or the open air. Some were diseased;
many became ill from change of diet, and soon an epidemic
similar to diphtheria broke out, and instead of a school, the
place became a hospital with sixteen children lying sick at
one time in one small room. According to Doctor Mc-
Loughlin, the school was continued until 1838 amid dis-
couraging circumstances, the missionaries doing everything
in their power to remedy the want of proper buildings.
The First School Teacher in Oregon. Philip L. Ed-
wards was a Kentuckian by birth. He came from Rich-
mond, Missouri, to Oregon, when he was twenty-three years
of age. Of more than ordinary attainments, he loved order
and refinement. A frontiersman, he knew how to accom-
modate himself to the rough condition of pioneer life. While
possessed of high moral sense, he was not a missionary.
After teaching thi? school, he returned to Missouri, studied
law and married. In 1850 he went to California, set
tling in Nevada county, taking an active part in politics and
dying in May, 1869. — **Centennial History of Oregon."
Methodist Reinforcements. In 1837, eight persons were
brought on the ship **Hamilton" from Boston via the Sand-
wich Islands as a reinforcement for the mission of which Jason
Lee was the head. Among them was ElijeJi White who was
to be the physician of the Mission. He brought with him
his wife, an infant son, and an adopted son fourteen years
of age. There were also Alanson Beers, the blacksmith,
who was later member of the first Executive Committee of
the Provisional Government; the kindly W. H. Willson, who
lived to locate the Salem townsite; Miss Anna Maria Pitt-
man; also Miss Susan Downing and Miss Elvira Johnson.
In October, 1839, another reinforcement came on tihe
* 'Lausanne" from New York, increstsing the missionary
family to sixty persons. A hospital was at once built and
the work of the Mission enlarged and intensified in every
way possible.
72 HISTORY OF OREGON
The Dalle) Mission. "On March 22, 1836, Daniel Lee
and H. W. Perkins, under the superin tendency of Jason Lee,
established "a Methodist mission to the Indieins at The
Dalles of the Columbia." It was commonly known as "The
Dalles Mission" among the whites, but it was called "Was-
copam" by the Indians. "Wascopam" was the name of the
BEV. JASON LEE PSEACHIHa TO THB IHDIAIT8
fine spring of water which the missionaries used, and which
is now the source of water supply for the high school that
occupies the site of the old mission. "Wasco" is the Indian
^vord for a "basin," and "pam" means a "place"; hence
"Wancopam" means "the place of a basin." Also from
this basin the County of Wasco received its name. At Was-
copam the missionaries cultivated a farm of thirty acres,
and carried on their work successfully until 1847, when
the Mission was sold to Dr. Marcus Whitman, of the Presby-
terian Mission near Walla Walla. His untimely death
soon after, resulted in closing The Dalles Mission as well as
the other three protestant missions which had been estab-
lished between the Rocky Mountains and the Cascade
Range."— Mrs. F. C. Crandall.
Pulpit Rock also marks the site of Wascopam Mission.
It is one of the oldest pulpits in the world. It was carved
EPOCH II
73
by Nature long before the advent of the white man in
America. Pulpit Rock, whicb is about twelve feet high^
overlooks an open air audi-
torium of sloping ground
where the Indians assembled
to bear the missionaries
preach, much after the man-
ner of the Greeks who gath-
ered about the Pnyx to hear
Demosthenes deliver his ora-
tions. This ancient pulpit
was, therefore, very sacred
to the more devout Indians.
Seated on Pulpit Rock, as
shown in the accompanjdng
view, is Joseph Luxillo, an
Indian who was baptized by
the missionaries with water
from Wascopam Spring and
who later became an influential preacher on the Simcoe
Reservation. He was one of the many Indians who made
pilgrimages to this shrine to renew their vows long after
Wascopam Mission had been abandoned by the whites.
Marriage Rite First (Miserved in Willamette Valley.
On Sunday, July 16, 1837, religious service was held in the
beautiful grove near the Lee Mission. Jason Lee delivered
a sermon on "The Propriety of Marriage, and Duties De-
volving upon the Married." In conclusion he added,
"What 1 urged by precept, 1 am about to enforce by exam-
ple;" then he offered his arm to Miss Anna Marie Pittman;
and Rev. Daniel Lee read the service for two couples instead
of one, as Cyrus Shepard and Miss Susan Downing were
also joined then in wedlock. Yet another wedding occurred
the same day of two people living on French Prairie; thus
the marriage rite was first observed in the Willamette Valley.
PTJLFIT KOCK
74 HISTORY OF OREGON
Before that, marriage had been a civil contract, and there
was considerable laxity aa to native unions.*
Othtf DenominatioiM Come to Old Oregon. When it
became Icnown that Jason Lee had established the Methodist
Mission in the Willamette Val-
ley, other religious denomina'
tions soon became interested in
the Indians of the Northwest.
Finally the American Board of
Commissioners for Foreign Mis-
sions became active. In 1635
Dr. Samuel Parker and Dr.
Marcus Whitman were sent
west to explore the field. While
on their journey they learned
that missionaries would recMve
a ^velcome among the Indians
west of the Rocky Mountains.
Doctor Whitman forthwith re-
turned to the East to procure
assistance, but Doctor Parker
continued his journey to the
Oregon Country, and lived at
Fort Vancouver the following
winter. In the spring, he visit-
„ ed the Walla Walla valley and
, reported it to be "a delightful
situation for a missionary estab-
He explored the Lewis and Spokane Rivers, be-
1 teaching the Indians whom he
, whence
Tight, GitI
liehment.
coming greatly interested
found. Later that year, he returned to Vi
he sailed to New York.
i"Ploneer Daye of Oregon."
health, she was carried
in a wagon or cart to
Green River, but from
here she was able to
travel on horseback.
New Minions. Leav
ing the women at Fort
Vancouver in Septem-
ber 1836. the men re-
traced their journey
up the river to Waiilat-
pu, which is seven
miles from the present
site of Walla Walla.
Here Doctor and Mrs.
Whitman were to la-
bor. Hence it was
called the Whitman
Mtsnon. In the Nez
P e r c e 8 country on
II 75
Doctor Whitman's Re-
tum. When Doctor Whit-
man arrived in New York
with his story of the In-
dians and their needs the
Board at once placed him
in charge of a mission to
be organized in the new
country. The following
year Mr. and Mrs. H. H.
Spalding and Mr. W. H.
Gray accompanied Doctor
and Mrs. Whitman. They
traveled with the fur trad-
ers from Missouri to the '
mountains. Because of
Mrs. Spalding's feeble
Ml&SIOlf FBIKTINQ PKESS
Ttni prlnUsg praii in Ow Pacific Noithvait,
BroucU to Oregon from Honolaln, Hnnit,
ia3S. UHd >t Lapvil Mlulon StiUon, uux
bwliton. Idaho, Ha7 IBth of that jiu t? E.
O. H*U, in printing liaflsts containing bymiu
and Bible Terui in tlie Indian langoasa, from
tranilatleni mada b; Sev. and lira. H. H.
Spalding. It la now lu tba Oragon Hlit(alcal
MnwoM, Portland.
76 HISTORY OF OREGON
the Clearwater, a mission was located, and Rev. and Mn.
Raiding wer« placed in charge of the work. In 1 838, Rev.
Gushing Eells and wife, Rev. Elkanah Walker and wife.
Rev. A, B. Smith and wife, and Mr. Cornelius Rogers occu-
pied the Spokane mission. Adobe houses were built, land
was fenced and ploughed, crops were sown and harvested,
cattle were imported, portions of the Bible were translated
and printed in the Nez Perce language on a little press that
was sent; and an effort was made to interest the Indians in.
domestic life as the shortest way to civilization.
The Steamship "Beaver." Among the most memorable
ships to enter the river now called the Columbia were the
'Columbia," the "Tonquin," and the steamship "Beaver."
The first two have already been mentioned — the "Colum-
bia" as the first to enter the river named for the ship, and
the "Tonquin," which brought the Astor partners who estab-
lished the trading post Fort Astor, now Astoria. Because
of the growth of the Oregon fur trade, there soon came a
demand for rapid river transportation. This called for craft
EPOCH II 77
propelled by steam. To meet the situation, the Hudson's
Bay Company on August 27, 1836, started the steamship
**Beaver" from Gravesend, England, to Vancouver on the
Columbia River. The**Beaver*' was built on the Thames
River in 1835, and should not be confused with the Ameri-
can sailing vessel of the same name, which was brought into
the Columbia River in 1812 by the Astor Company. Be-
cause the S. S. "Beaver** was unable to carry sufficient coal
for so long a journey by steam, the principal part of the
voyage was made under sail; but there is proof that she
used her engine in crossing the **dol drums,** the belt of calms
between 3° north and 4° south of the equator. After a voyage
of 1 75 days, she arrived in the Columbia, with the record
of being the first steamship to cross the equator in either
ocean. The * 'Beaver** then steamed up the river, where
she did valuable service for the Hudson's Bay Company. This
was the beginning of steam navigation on the Columbia
River.
President Sends Comnaissioners to Oregon. In order
that he might know from more reliable sources, the wisest
policy to pursue in the development of the Northwest, Presi-
dent Jackson, in 1836, sent Mr. W. A. Slacum to secure
such information as he could concerning Oregon. On this
journey which extended up the Willamette river as far as
the present site of the capital, he w^as careful to note all
matters of importance. At that time the country was new
and particularly rich in pasture grasses. This fact appealed
to Mr. Slacum, and he encouraged the settlers to procure
herds of cattle. These could be purchased from the Mexi-
cans in California, who were in the habit of slaughtering
cattle merely for their hides and tallow. To encourage the
project, Slacum gave a number of the settlers free passage
on hts ship to Calif ornia, where the party under the direction
of Ewing Young and P. L. Edwards bought eight-hundred
head of cattle at three dollars each, and forty horses at
twelve dollars each. In the fall .of 1837, their stock was
78 HISTORY OF OREGON
brought overland to Oregon with a loss of one-fourth of
the number purchased. It is estimated therefore that a
cow cost the settlers about $3.75, and a horse $13.00.
Within a few years cows were regularly sold in the Willam-
ette Valley for $50 each and oxen at $100 to $150 per
yoke, such was the demand for them after settlers increased
in number.
Slacmn Creates Further Interest in Oregon. In 1837,
Mr. Slacum, who had returned to the United States, made
a report to the government in which he insisted that the
Oregon Country should extend to the 49th parsJlel. In re-
citing the story of the Willamette Valley settlement, he
impressed Congress with the gravity of the Oregon boundary
question which had occupied the attention of that body at
different times since 1820 and which was yet to be the
subject of much contention between the United States and
Great Britain.
Linn, Lee^ and Famham. By this time Oregon had
many influential friends throughout the Nation to espouse
her cause. Prominent among those who championed Ore-
gon in Congress was Senator Lewis F. Linn, of Missouri,
who, in the year 1838 proposed to recognize Oregon as a
territory- Although Senator Linn*8 bill failed to become
a law, the information it contained was distributed by vari-
ous means throughout the United States, and in that way
developed renewed interest in the West. In that same year
Jason Lee csmvassed Missouri and Illinois asking aid for
the Willamette mission; and he carried with him a petition
to Congress, which Senator Linn presented the following
year. Mr. Thomas J. Farnham carried to Congress a peti-
tion asking protection for the Oregon settlers. The sub-
stance of his argument for this petition was that **Oregon is
the germ of a great state.**
Jason Lee Returns to Oregon. Jason Lee impressed
the people of Missouri and Illinois with his devout earnest-
FIB3T HAHSIOH IX SAI.EM
EPOCH II 79
ness and the worthiness of the cause he advocated, and was,
therefore, promptly supplied
with forty- two thousand dol-
lars; and fifty persons were
assigned to assist him in carry-
ing on the missionary work in
the Oregon Country. These
workers were distributed
among six missions, — Mouth
of the Columbia. Willam-
ette Falls, Umpqua, The Dalles, Puget Sound, and the Cen-
tral Mission on the Willamette,
Archbishop Blanchet and Vicar-General Deroer*. The
presence of the Methodist Missionaries encouraged devout
French Canadians of the Willamette as early as 1 834 to ask
the Catholic Church to
send missionaries to them.
in 1836 the request was
repeated. In answer to
the call, the Hudson's Bay
Company, two years later,
conveyed two priests from
Montreal who were in-
structed to "establish a
mission in the Cowlitz Val-
ley, the reason given be-
ing that the British aover-
eignity south of the Colum-
bia was still undecided."
Hence for a time those
were denied who first ap-
plied for religious instruc-
;het was appointed vicar-gen-
eral of the Oregon Mission, and the Rev. Modeete Demers
was chosen as his assistant. Along their journey toOregon the
ARCHBISHOP T. S. BIJUIOHET
tion. Rev. Francis Norbert Blar
80 HISTORY OF OREGON
missionaries were well received by the natives, many of "whom
were baptized at Forts Okanogan, Colville and Walla Walla.
At Vancouver mass was celebrated for the first time. After
visiting the Willeunette Valley the Vicar-General establi^ed
himself (1839) emnong the Cowlitz Indians, in a log house
twenty by thirty feet which was used as a residence and a
chapel. Here the activities^ of the church were instituted
at once. The Hudson's Bay Company finally conceding' to
the missionaries the right to operate in the Willamette Val-
ley, the Vicar-General took up his residence in a Canadian
settlement — now St. Paul — where a log chapel had been
built in 1836 on a site essentially the same as that occupied
by the present church. Here January 6, 1840, **Mass was
celebrated for the first time in the Willamette Valley. On
the 14th of the preceding October, Rev. Demers, who had
been left in charge of the Cowlitz establishment, installed
and rang the first church bell ever heard in the territory.
Rev. Pierre J. DeSmet and other missionaries soon came.
The Catholic church prospered, and Oregon on December
11, 1843, w^as erected into an apostolic vicarate by Pope
Gregory XVI, who appointed Blanchet archbishop of the
territory, Demers succeeding him as vicar-genergJ.**
Chinook Jargon. When Lewis and Clark came to
Western Oregon they found as many Indisui languages as
there were tribes. Later there were two languages which
were understood by all of them — the Indian sign language
and the Chinook Jargon. The sign language was feuniliar
to Indian tribes from the Atlantic ocean to the Pacific. It
was very interesting when gracefully rendered, much of it
partaking of the nature of beautiful pantomime. The Indian
sign language has gradually gone into disuse until it is almost
forgotten, yet there are some who can communicate intelli-
gently by means of its signs and symbols.
i"One of the first steps taken by the Catholic fathers was to
separate for a short time the Canadians from their Indian wives,
after which the couples were married according to the customs of
the Catholic church," — Bancroft.
EPOCH II 81
The Chinook Jargon was the commercial langusige
used by the fur traders and Indisois along the Oregon coast.
Later it was popularized somewhat by missionaries who
translated hymns and portions of the Bible into the Jargon
for the benefit of the Indians. According to the "Centen-
nial History of Oregon," **the origin of many words in
the Chinook Jargon is unknown. This jargon is supposed
to have been introduced by the first voysigers to the Oregon
coast in search of furs, and was added to from time to time
by Indians, travelers and fur traders. It contains some Indian
words suid some corrupted French and English words, and
some of it is pure fiction." There are nearly seven-hundred
words in the Chinook Jargon, only few of which have found
their way into literature. The once popular Jargon has
subserved its purpose, and gradually disappeared upon the
approach of the comprehensive English, so that there are
comparatively few who speak the barbarous dialect at the
present time.
The following interlinear copy of the Lord's Prayer is
given as a sample of this lingua franca:
Nesika papa klaxta mitlite kopa Sahalee kloshe
Our Father who dwellest in the Above sacred
kopa nesika tumtuni mika nem. Nesika hiyu .tikeh
in our hearts (be) Thy name. We greatly long for
chahco mika illahee. Mamook Mika kloshe tumtum kopa
the coming of Thy kingdom. Do Thy good will with
okoke illahee kahkwa kopa Sahalee. Potlach konoway
this world as also In the heavens. Give (us) day by
sun nesika muckamuck ; pee mahlee konoway nesika mesahchee
day our bread; and remember not all our wickedness
kahkwa neska mamook kopa klaska spose mamook mesahchee
even as we do also with others if they do evil
kopa nesika. Wake lolo nesika kopa peshak, pee marsh
unto ourselves. Not bring us into danger, but put
siah kopa nesika konoway mesahchee. Kloshe kahkwa :
far away from us all evil. So may it be
iTranslation from Gill's "Chinook Jargon Dictionary,"
82 HISTORY OF OREGON
CHAPTER V.
MIGRATION AND DEVELOPMENT.
They crossed the desert, as of old
Their fathers crossed the sea;
To make the West as they the East,
The homestead of the free. — -Whlttler.
Necessity for the Colonization of Oregon. Oregon was
the first Pacific Coast region to which there was considerable
migration from the States. Several reasons were now ap-
parent why it should be rapidly settled, namely:
1. If the Americans were to dominate in Oregon, it
was necessary for them to be in the majority.
2. Tliere w^as much uneasiness throughout the United
States as to the Oregon Boundary Question, the decision of
which msuiy believed would be influenced somewhat by the
presence of American settlers.
3. It was the American policy to send colonists to
Oregon so that they might develop the resources of the
country, and incidentally replace savagery with civilization.
4. Lawlessness was becoming prevalent so that live-
stock and other property were frequently stolen. Also the
Indians, who were acquiring civilization and were dependent
upon the whites for government, required better protection
for their families and their property. Furthermore, the
Americans wanted a government of their own, the out-
growth of their desire being a demand for law and order.
To meet this demand there must be enough Americans to
enforce such laws as might be made.
5. But above all was the opportunity for men and
women to come west and improve their condition.
The Emigration of 1839. Mention has been made of
whites who came to Oregon to trap and trade, and of those
who carried on missionary work eunong the Indians. Vari-
ous parties had crossed the plains but the first serious at-
tempt at migration to Oregon was in 1 839. This movement
resulted from lectures given by Rev. Jason Lee in Peoria,
EfOCH ll!
«3
Illinois, during the winter of I837'1838. In the firing of
1839, nineteen men took a two-Korse wagon and a band of
horses as far as Independence, Missouri. Here they trans-
ferred their luggage to pack horses and turned their course
toward Santa Fe, where there was abundance of grass and
many buffalo. By the last of September th^ reached Green
River vfhere they met Joe Meek and other well kno'wn trap-
pers. Their suffering was intense as they traveled through
deep snows with only dog meat to subsist upon, and noth-
ing but cotton wood boughs for their horses to eat. Of
this party only tive reached the Willamette Valley.
First Protestant Church on Pacific Coast With the
migration to Oregon there grew a demand for churches
and schools, and to meet this demand a Methodist church
edifice was begun
at Oregon City in
1842, and complet-
ed in 1644. This
was the first protes-
tant church on the
Pacific coast. How-
ever, the chapel of
the Oregon Institute
of Salem had been
used for religious
services as early as
1841. Prior to that
time the Methodists
held religious meet-
ings in homes, in
groves, and in the Mission building, their missionary work
having been begun by Rev. Jason Lee in 1834.
Willamette University. The missionaries aboard the
"Lausanne"' on their voyage from New York to Oregon cele-
brated the centennial of Methodism (October 25, 1839).
by starting a fund with which to establish a school in the
64
HISTORY OF OREGON
Willamette Vall«y. A sermon was preached by Rev. Gus-
tavus Hines, and $650 was contributed by leas than tw«i^
families; and out of the prayerful dream of the "Lausanne"
missionaries came forth the first university of the Pacific
OIJ> OBEOON HTSTITHTE
Coast But the university was a long time is materializing.
Meanwhile these were some of the things that took place:
The Indian Mission School which has been mentioned,
was jnoved (1842) to what is now the campus of Willam-
ette University, where it was conducted in a $ 1 0,000 frame
building. At about this time the white settlers planned a
school for their own children, elected a board of trustees,
mibscribed funds, named the school The Oregon Institute,
resolved that it should gro'w into a college, and began to
look about for a suitable location. Their investigations re-
sulted in the purchase of the Indian Mission School property.
The Oregon Institute was formally opened as a school for
white children, on the present University Campus in Salem,
August 16, 1844. with Mrs. Chloe Clark Wilson as teacher
in charge of nineteen pupils. Mrs. Willson, who came to
Oregon for the express purpose of teaching the children of
^m
^1
J
86 HISTORY OF OREGON
the white settlers, was present when the $650 was subscribed
on the **Lausanne** for the establishment of a school in the
Willamette Valley. As soon as the Oregon and California
Conference^ of the M. E. Church completed its organization
in 1 849, it assumed entire control of the school, which was
incorporated as Willamette University in 1853. The Con-
ference also designated the Oregon Institute as the prepara-
tory school of the University.
Waller Hall, the oldest building on the campus, was
begun in 1864, Governor Gibbs delivering the address at
the laying of the corner stone. The Greek cross form of
the building was suggested by Bishop Janes of the M. E.
Church. The College of Medicine after giving instruction
two years was formally organized in 1867, and the College
of Law was established in 1 884. Since there were no high
schools in Oregon to prepare students for the University,
a number of academies were orgsuiized for that purpose.
The first of these was Wilbur Academy, named in honor of
Rev. James H. Wilbur, whose name has become inseparably
linked with Willamette University and with the town in
which he located the Academy. There were also Sherida*
Academy, The Dalles Academy, Santieun Academy, and
Portland Academy and Female Seminary. Also there was
a seminary orgsuiized jointly by the Methodists and Congre-
gationalists, at Oregon City, in which many students were
trained for the University.
Among the most prominent educators who gave to
the institution its standing as a university in the earlier days,
were Presidents Francis S. Hoyt guid Thomas M. Gatch.
Dr. Hoyt resigned the presidency in 1 860, after serving ten
1 Bishop E. R. Ames organized the Methodist annual conference
at Salem, March 17, 1853, Including the territory of Oregon and
Washington. The second annual conference was held by Bishop
Matthew Simpson, at Belknap settlement, in Benton County, the
following year.
EPOCH II 6
years in that office, and Doctor Gatch, who succeeded hin
gave the University two ad-
ministrations.
In recent years the friends
of Willamette University have
raised a cash endowment of a
half million dollars; also gen-
erous gifts of from $ 1 to
$10,000 have been tendered
the institution, enabling the
oldest university on the Pa-
cific Coast of North America
to maintain an important rank
among standardized schools
of higher learning.
The Ein«ntion of 1843.
Early in the spring of 1643,
almost umultaneously, migra-
Hon b^™ from Mi.«>uri. and™.™'; ySSr.Sf.'S?i,?,.f,j.1i5;
in less numbers from Arkan- OnivBmity of WKBHington, and tn*
sas, Illinois, Kentucky, Tenne-
see. Iowa, and Texas. This was called the "Great Emigra-
tion" because it embraced nearly a thousand persons. All
the settlers of Oregon who preceded this emigration did not
equal half as many as were added by this train. At Kansas
River, Peter H. Burnett, later first American governor of
California, was chosen captain; and James W. Nesmith, a
young man who was to become prominent and influ-
ential in Oregon, and who later represented the young state
in the United States Senate during the Civil War, was orderly
sergeant. Burnett held command only eight days, and was
succeeded by William Martin who retained leadership until
the emigration broke into smaller parties. When Whitman,
who was with the rear of the emigration, reached Fort Hall,
he found the leaders doubtful as to what plan to adopt. It
had been customary to leave wagons at Fort Hall and go
88 HISTORY OF OREGON
through to the Columbia with pack animals. But S. A.
Clark tells us in "Pioneer Days of Oregon Histoiy" that
Whitman encouiaged them to continue, with the assurance
that he could lead them to the Columbia with their wagons.
After the settlers had halted for a few days to recuperate
and to rest their weary teams, they decided to continue
their journey with Doctor Whitman as their guide since he
was well qualified to select the best route for the wagons
to follow. They reached Fort Boise on the twentieth of
3 THE PLAINS
September. On the twenty-fourth of September they en-
tered Burnt River Canon. By the first of October their
route led through the beautiful Grand Ronde Valley, where
snowy summits of the Blue Mountains looked do^vn on pine
clad hills. In the same month they reached Waiilatpu.
Some of the cattle were left in the Walla Walla Valley.
The others were driven overland; while "the families, wa-
gons, and other property were taken down the Columbia
river on boats and rafts, arriving in the Willamette Valley
by the end of November." The latter part of the journey
was so arduous that some declared the hardships greater
and the suffering more acute while descending the Columbia
from The Dalles to the Willamette than were those of the
long pilgrimage from the Missouri River. .
EPOCH li 89
Oregon Hilk of Glass. Emigremts as early as 1843
announced the discovery of natural glass along their route
of travel in Eastern Oregon. In appearance the glass so
closely resembled pieces of dark bottles that it was frequent'
ly mistaken for fragments of artificial glass. They soon
learned, however, that it was obsidian, a natural rock and
form of lava which cooled so quickly that it hardened into
glass. Usually it was of a dark or black color; but occa^
sionally phases of it were variegated with streaks of brown,
and often vivid red, which gave to it an appearance that
was very attractive. And when the Indians showed them
spear heads, primitive knives and other useful articles made
of this substance, the emigrants became more and more
interested in their new discovery.
Afterwards it was ascertained that obsidian exists in
vast quantities in various sectons of that porton of Oregon
which lies east of the Cascade Range, and that most of the
scattered fragments originally came from a group of glass
buttes, near the northeast corner of Lake County. The
buttes can be recognized from afar because of their dark
barren sides with broken glass here and there glistening
in the sun.
1843-1849
OREGON UNDER
THE PROVISIONAL
GOVERNMENT
CHAPTER VI.
Epoch III is an account of Oregon under the Provisional
Government. It begins with the Champoeg meetings in
1843 and extends to March 3, 1849, when a territorial form
of government was proclaimed in Oregon by Governor
Joseph Lane. Preceding Epoch 111, the Hudson's Bay Com-
pany administered the chief civil government of Oregon.
But many of the settlers advocated a government of the
people. Inhere being much opposition to the movement, it
was delayed until the death of Ewing Young, (February 1 5,
1841), who had settled in Yamhill district in November,
1834, and whose estate required prompt legal administra-
tion. Since Young belonged neither to the Hudson's Bay
Company nor to the Mission, he was what was then called
an "independent settler." The death of this American, the
first to leave an estate, created a new and serious condition
for which there was no legal provision. In this emergency
immediate action was imperative. Following the funeral
services of Ewing Young (February 17, 1841), a mass
meeting was announced to take place at the Mission on the
92 HISTORY OF OREGON
following day to provide for the settlement of the estate.
At the mass meeting held, February 1 8, Doctor Ira L. Bab-
cock, of the Mission was appointed supreme judge with pro-
bate powers. It is of interest in this connection to know that
Ewing Young's estate was later settled, but for the want of
a known heir it temporarily escheated to the commonwealth.
A sheriff, three constables and as many justices of the peace
were chosen, and a committee of nine with Rev. F. N.
Blanchet as chairman was appointed to form a constitution
and draft a code of laws to be reported at a meeting to be
held June 7, 184f. At the June meeting, the Committee
of nine failing to report, the colonists adjourned to meet
October 1 . But Charles Wilkes, U. S. N., and many leading
citizens believing the time was not auspicious to organize
an American government, "the project was dropped;" and
for more than a year nothing further was publicly attempted.
Preliminary Meeting. Protection of Stock. When
Doctor Elijah White returned with one-hundred and twenty
emigrants in 1 842, the American party was so strengthened
that civil government was again discussed. Accordingly, a
preliminary meeting was held February 2, 1843, at the
Oregon Institute, to provide for a general meeting to be
held on the second Monday of the following March, ostensi-
bly for the purpose of providing for bounties for killing
wolves,^ lynxes, bear and panthers.
Why Called the ''Wolf Meeting.'' The meeting in
March was known as the **Wolf Meeting" because funds
were voted for suitable bounties for killing wolves and other
destructive animals, and an officer placed in charge of that
service. It was adroitly stated, however, that though pro-
vision had been made for the protection of their flocks, yet
it was far more important that provision should be made for
iThe late John Minto suggested the strange coincidence that
the wolf should have been associated with the first government in
Jiome and with the first government of Oreg^on.
EPOCH m 93
the protection of tke settlers' families. Tkereupoo a com-
mittee of twdve wa« appointed "to coaatder the propriety
of taking steps fftr the civil and military protection of the
colony."
WOU HUNT OK FBEHCH PR&ISIE JS
Provisional Government Voted at Champoeg. The
First Atnerican Governfment on the Pacific Coast was auth-
orized by the people of the Willamette Valley, at Champoeg,
May 2, 1843; and it is somewhat remarkable that the same
number of colonists should meet to provide for the first
constitution and self-government on the Pacific coast as
there were in the "Mayflower" when the first constitution
for civil government in the world was written, and the first
self-government was authorized on the Atlantic coast.
The Vote for a Divide. At the Champoeg meeting
102 men had gathered in an open tield for the purpose of
considering the report of the Committee of twelve on Organ-
ization which had been appointed February 2. The com-
mittee reported favorably on the establJshnient of a govern-
ment. After much heated discussion, friends of the move-
ment for a governnient decided that prompt action was
necessary. Following the motion to adopt the report of
the committee, Joe Meek shouted:
94
HISTORY OF OREGON
"Who's for a divide? All in favor of the report and
of an organization, follow mel"
There were fifty-two who voted for the motion, while
their opponents were but fifty. Since this meant a pro-
visional government in Oregon, the opposing faction with-
drew. The business of the
meeting was resumed, and
a committee of nine was
chosen to report a plan of
<4vil government at a
meeting t6 be held at
Champoeg on the fifth of
the following May.
Legidative Commit*
tee Aisemble at the Falls.
At the Willamette Falls
there was a small building
used as a school, storage
room, and lodging apart-
ment. Here the commit-
tee of nine assembled as
the first popular authorita-
tive and deliberative body
of Oregon, for the purpose of c
ernment' to be recommended to their fellow citizens at
Champoeg the following July 5, The most perplexing ques-
tion to solve was concerning the Ejtecutive, with the result
that the Legislative Committee decided upon vesting the
executive authority in a committee of three.
JOSEPH MEEK
sidering the form of Gov-
i"The genesis o( American political government In the 'Oregon
Country' dates from March 16, 18SS, when a memorial, prepared by
J. L. Whltcomb and tfilrty-flve others, was forwarded to Washington,
presented to Congress by Senator Linn on January 28, 1839, read
and piKeonholed, A second memorial, signed by seventy Oregon
settlers, was presented by Senator tilnn in June, 1840, and suffered
the same fate."
EPOCH III 95
Form of Govenunent Adc^ted. The con-
vention assembled at Champoeg, July 5, to hear the report
of the committee. Canadian settlers who had signed an
address to the convention were present with the Americans.
Their address was placed on file as a record of the interests
of those opposed to the organization of a government.
Some of the Canadians, however, expressed sympathy with
the object of the American movement, while others declared
that they would not submit to any government which might
be organized. The report of the committee of the Provision-
al Government was discussed, and Alanson Beers, David
Hill, and Joseph Gale were selected as the Executive com-
mittee. Also, the officers chosen at the meeting held May 2\
were continued until the election on the second Tuesday in
May, 1844, at which time proceedings of the convention
were to be submitted to the people for their approval.
"Thus the first regular government in Oregon went into
effect, although it was incomplete until July, 1845, when
an organic law framed by the Legislative Committee was
approved" by vote of the settler.
It will, therefore, be observed that although Massachu-
setts gained distinction because of her sacrifice to free New
England from British rule, there were also bitter contentions
between the Oregon colonists and those who were under
the flag of Great Britain ; and Oregon, too, could and would
have sacrificed much toward the same end. But despite the
claims, influence and power of British subjects, Oregon
jusdy as well as discreedy obtained without bloodshed a
provisional government of her own choice for the people
of the Pacific Northwest. This victory of peaceful acquisi-
tion achieved by patriotic and determined American settlers
was no less glorious than the victory of war won by the
Mother State of New England.
96 HISTORY OF OREGON
FIBST EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
The first Executive Committee consisting of Alanson
Beers, David Hill and Joseph Gale, constituted the execu*
tive h^ad of the new government of Oregon Territory for
joae year ending May 1 4, 1 844.
First Organic Laws of Oregon. July 5« 1843, the first
.Organic Laws of Oregon were adopted **until such time as
the United States of America extends jurisdiction over us.**
.These. laws, sometimes known as the First Oregon Consti-
tution resembled the usual announcement of principles, pow-
ers and duties of an American commonwealth with the
further provision that slavery should be prohibited. Settlers
were denied the right to hold more than one section of land,
sind permission was given to boys of sixteen and girls of
fourteen to marry, the consent of their parents having been
obtained. The legal fee for marriage was fixed at one dol-
lar, and for recording the same fifty cents. The laws of
Iowa Territory were adopted, with the provision that **where
no statute of Iowa Territory applies, the principles of com-
mon law and equity shall govern."
The Salmon Seal. Upon the organization of the Pro-
visional Government, a seal was adopted which was so de-
signed that it would in no way prejudice
either American or British interests. It
was called the Salmon Seal because it
contained the figure of a salmon typify-
ing the fish industry which the settlers
as well as the Hudson's Bay Company
could promote. Above the salmon were
three sheaves of grain symbolic of agri- _ _ ^ ^_
. - - , SEAL or THE OBEOON
culture — the principal vocation of the provisional oov-
makers of the Provisional Government ebnment
In the form of an arc above the sheaves * 'Oregon* * was
inscribed.
EPOCH III
97
Oregon Divided Into Four Districts. In December of
1843, the Legislative Committee created four legislative dis-
tricts which, in 1845, were called counties.
FIRST FOUR LEGISLATIVE DISTRICTS OR
COUNTIES OF OREGON
Twality District was bounded on the north by the
northern boundary line of the Oregon Country. Its eastern
boundary was the Willamette River, and presumably an
extension of a line from the mouth north to the north line
of the Oregon Country; its southern boundary was the Yam-
hill River and presumably a line which would be the western
continuation of the Ysmihill River to the Pacific Ocean, said
ocean being the western boundary of Twality^ District.
Yamhill District was bounded on the north by Twality
District, on the east by the Willamette River and a supposed
line running north and south from said river to California,
on the south by California, and on the west by the Pacific
Ocean.
iNow "Tualatin.
tt
i
98 HISTORY OF OREGON
Champooick^ District was bounded on the north by a
supposed line drawn from the mouth of the Anchiyoke
(Pudding) River running due east to the Rocky Mountains,
on the east by the summit of the Rocky Mountains, on the
west by the Willamette River and a supposed line running
due south to California, on the south by the 42nd parallel.
Clackamas District comprised all the territory not in-
cluded in the other three districts.
Importance of the Champoeg Meetings. In 1901, Har-
vey W. Scott, in a paper on **The Champoeg Meetings'* said:
"What shall I say more of the impressive scene that was en-
acted upon this spot eight and fifty years ago? All the
actors save one, the venerable F. X. Matthieu, who provi-
dentially is with us today, have passed from earth. The
results of their fair work remain; and what we must regard
as a thing of high significance is the fact that they well
understood that they were laying the foundation of a State.
In what they did here that day there was a clear premonition
to them that it was a work for unborn generations. The in-
stinct for making States, an instinct that so strongly charac-
terizes that portion of the human race that has created the
United States of America, never had clearer manifestation
or more vigorous assertion. On the spot where this work
was done we dedicate this monument this day. May every
inhabitant of the Oregon Country, through all ages, take
pride in this spot, and an interest in preservation of this
monument, as a memento of what was done here!**
Wh^i Oregon Posed As ^^No Man's Land." At the
beginning of the Provisional Government the northern boun-
dary of Oregon was so seriously in doubt that it became a
very delicate question requiring negotiations that covered a
number of years. Neither Spain nor Russia at this time
made claim to any part of the Oregon Country, but Great
iNow "Champoeg."
EPOCH III 99
Britain and the United States did. The British wanted all
they could get, and strange to say the Americans disputed
among themselves as to what should be demanded as the
boundary line. Some claimed the parallel of 54° 40' as the
north boundary, while others were content with the 49th
parallel north. Under the singular conditions that prevailed
neither the United States nor Great Britain was in position
to make demands of the other or to exercise jurisdiction
over the Oregon Country. Hence the Hudson's Bay Com-
pany and mother adherents of the British greatly feared that
something might be done by the Americans that would even-
tually forestall British rights in the Oregon Boundary Ques-
tion. Therefore, it was decided by the supporters of the
Provisional Government to act independently of all nations,
to proceed as if Oregon were '*No Man's Land," and to do
nothing officially that would prejudice the rights or interests
of either nation, until the boundary line was agreed upon.
In the language of a memorial of the Provisional Govern-
ment, dated June 28, 1844: **By treaty stipulations
the territory has become a kind of neutral ground, in the
occupancy of which the citizens of the United States and the
subjects of Great Britain have equal rights and ought to
have equal protection.'* This arrangement had much to
do in quieting the suspicions and fears of British subjects
concerning the purposes of the new movement; and many
of them eventually became participants in the Provisional
Government.
The Oregon Rangers. Difficult to Enforce Law. By
this time it was found difficult to enforce some of the laws
which the Provisional Government had made. Various
depredations were committed, and the perpetrators escaped
without arrest. An incident in Oregon City, however, drew
special attention to the situation and military aid was pro-
vided for the executive authority.
Murder of Recorder he Breton. George W. Le Breton,
Recorder of Oregon under the Provisional GDyernment,
1 00 HISTORY OF OREGON
and another citizen, were fatally wounded March 4, 1844,
while attempting to arrest a Molalla Indian, who with five
other Indians, was creating a disturbance in Oregon City.
Organization of the Oregon Rang era. In consequence
of the disturbance, a volunteer company of twenty-five
mounted riflemen, with T. D. Keiser as captain, was organ*
ized at the Willamette Institute on the 23d of the month.
The purpose of the military organization — ^which was the
first in the territory, — ^was to co-operate with other com-
panies that might be formed later in bringing to justice all
the Indians engaged in the affeur of March 4th, emd to pro-
tect the lives and property of the citizens against any depre-
dations that might be committed. The compemy was nsoned
the Oregon Rangers. Captain Keiser soon resigned; and
Charles Bennett, who had served in the United States Army,
was chosen in his stead. **The rangers were to furnish their
own equipment, £uid in case of actual service were to receive
two dollars a day, and for each day's drill one dollar, but
to forfeit twice their per diem for non-attendance. The com-
pany was to be chartered by the colonial government; and
might be called out by any of the commissioned officers or
by any one of the Executive Committee." Although the
Oregon Rangers met with the disapproval of the Hudson's
Bay Company they were endorsed by the colonists, who be-
lieved that the Rangers, by their readiness to enforce the
law, gave stability to the Provisional Government.
EPOCH III 101
SECOND EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
(May 14. 1844— June 12, 1845)
P. G. Stewart, Osborn Russell and W. J. Bailey were
chosen executive committee at the election held May 14,
1844.
Prohibition Law. Upon assuming charge of the Hud-
son's Bay Company interests. Doctor McLoughlin, who
favored prohibition as a wise economic measure in transact-
ing business with the Indians, ordered that no intoxicating
liquors be sold to them. Later, when Nathaniel Wyeth
brought liquors to trade to the Indians, Doctor McLoughlin
at once made known to him the Company's policy on this
point in such a way that Wyeth acquiesced with the Doctor's
views. As soon as the Methodist Mission opened a school
a temperance society was organized, which many of the
whites joined through the influence of Doctor McLoughlin.
Therefore, since the settlers were greatly outnumbered by
the Indians most of whom were subject to whiskey-craze,
the legislative committee passed a law (June 1 844) prohibit-
ing the sale of ardent spirits.
Tyler's Lost Minister. A minister to a foreign country is so
strictly a representative of his nation that should any ill befall him
at the hands of another nation grave complications would naturally
follow. In 1844 just this kind of thing seemed for a time to have
ta,ken place in America. President Tyler had appointed Delazon
Smith, then of Iowa, but later U. S. Senator from Oregon, as min-
ister to one of the South American republics. After the new min-
ister took his leave for the scene of his duties nothing was heard of
him for eleven months, during which time the possibility of all kinds
of national complications resulting from his disappearance was dis-
cussed by the press and statesmen of Europe and America. Later
it was learned that the new minister upon assuming the duties of
his office had decided to inform himself regarding the unexplored
region in the vicinity of the Andes. For this purpose he traveled
horseback across the continent, and for eleven months was so com-
pletely shut off from communication that his whereabouts was un-
known. In consequence of the vigilant search made for him by the
State Department and the international interest which his disappear-
ance created, Smith won the nation- wide sobriquet of "Tyler's Lggt
Minister.'
»
102
HISTORY OF OREGON
N^roes Forbidden in Oregon. Slavery a Delicate
Question. In those days negro slavery was practiced in the
Southern States, and there ^as a tendency to extend the sys-
tem of slavery to the Oregon Country. So the emigrants
from the North and those from the South began to ask one
another, "Shall there be negro slavery in Oregon?" The
colonists therefore, seeing the advisability of meeting the
issue squarely, decided to place themselves on record re-
garding the negro question, A measure was accordingly
passed by the Legislative
Committee, in June, ! 844,
whereby residence waa
forbidden to any negro in
Oregon. It was made a
law that "Slavery or in-
voluntary service should
not exist; any negro slave
brought into the country
should in three years be-
come free; any free negro
or mulatto coming to the
country should leave with-
in two years; if he(or she)
failed to leave the country
after notice, he should be
whipped on the bare back
with not less than t'wenty
nor more than thirty -nine
stripes, and flogged like wis
leave."
The law was repealed
negro question continued ft
LOUIS SOUTH WORTH
every six months until he did
1 the following session; yet the
r many years to be a bone of
much contention, "Officially, slavery never existed in Ore-
gon; but actually some of the Oregon pioneers held' slaves"
during an extended period covering the time that the people
were a^vaiting a final decision on the subject.
EPOCH III 103
Legislative Action in Ewing Young Estate. Since the
discussions in connection with the estate of Ewing Young
had much to do with the formation of the Oregon Provision-
Oregon was approaching statehood, and a popular vote was
taken on the negro question, it is noteworthy that while the
vote against slavery was almost three to one, the sentiment
on the negro question was so intense that the vote against
al Government, it is interesting to note that December 16,
1844, the Executive Committee reported to the Legislative
Committee at Willamette Falls, **Thi8 government has in
its possession notes amounting to $3,734.26, most of which
are already due. These notes are a balance in favor of the
estate of Ewing Young, deceased, intestate. We will there-
fore advise that these demands be settled and appropriated
to the benefit of the country, the Government being at all
times responsible for the payment of them to those who
may hereafter appear to have a legal right in them. There-
upon the money was devoted to the building of a jail at Ore-
gon City, the first of the kind west of the Rocky Mountains."'
A few years afterward, Joaquin Young, of New Mexico,
established his claim as a son of Ewing Young and the full
amount mentioned was paid to him.
Governor and Legislature Provided. **A session of the
Legislative Committee was held in Oregon City beginning
December 16, 1844, and continuing seven days. Upon
the recommendation of the executive committee, a commit-
tee was appointed to frame an amended Organic Law which
was to be submitted to the people at a specieJ election, and,
if approved by the popular vote, the amendments were to
lAmong those who were held as slaves in Oregon was Louis South-
worth, (died in Corvallis 1917) who in 1855 had purchased his free-
dom from his master in Benton /County for $1,00(0. Also in 1857,
Reuben Shipley (colored) residing three miles west of Corvallis
paid $400 (or $700) for his wife, who was claimed as a slave in Polk
County, Oregon.
i"History of the Willamette Valley,"
1 04 HISTORY OF OREGON
go into effect from and after the first Tuesday in June, 1 845.
The amendments to the Organic Law met with approval
of the people, the office of governor was substituted for
the Elxecutive Committee, and the Legislative Conunittee
was superseded by the House of Representatives consisting
of not less than thirteen nor more than sixty-one members
apportioned among various districts according to popula-
tion.* '^
\
2"History of the Pacific Northwest."
EPOCH 111
105
GOVERNOR GEORGE ABERNETHY
(June 12, 1845— March 3, 1849)
SECTION VII
"O bearded stalwart, westward man.
So tower-like, so Gothic_ built!
A kingdom won without the guilt
Of studied battle." — Joaquia Miller.
First Provisional Gov^nor of Oregon. An election
had been held on June 3, 1845, for governor and other
officers, at which lime George Abemethy' and A. L. Love-
joy were candidates for governor. Mr. Abemethy was
elected by a majority of 98 votes in a total of 504 and was
inaugurated on the third of the following August. Two
years later the same candi-
dates were again before
the people for the same
office and GovemorAber-
nethy was successful by a
plurality of 1 6 votes in a
total of 1807.
Conditions During Aber-
nethy's Administratioii. Il-
lustrating conditions in
that formative period of
government, the follow-
ing in Governor Aber-
nethy's message to the leg-
islature in December,
1846, is of special interest;
"1 regret to be compelled
to inform you that the jail
located in Oregon City oov. qeoege abernethy
and the property of the Territory, was destroyed by fire
iGeorge Abemethy was born in New York, Oct. S, 1807. In 1840,
he came to Oregoa aa a lay member of the Methodist mission and
kept a store for a time in Oregon City. He served two terms as
ProvjBjonal Governor, and died in Portland in 1877.
106
HISTORY OF OREGON
on the night of the 1 8th of August last, the work, I have no
doubt, of an incendiary. A reward of $100 was immedi-
ately offered, but, aa yet, the offender has not been dis-
covered. Should you think best to erect another jail I would
suggest the propriety of building it of large stones clamped
together. We have but little use for a jail, and a small
building would answer all purposes, for many years, no
doubt, if we should be successful in keeping ardent spirits
out of the territory."
First Wagons to Cross the Cascade Range. The first
emigrants reached the Willamette Valley by coming down the
Columbia in boats and barges, driving their stock over the
mountains. But late in Oc-
tober, 1845, Samuel K. Bar-
low, who said, "God never
made a mountain without
some place to go over it."
left The Dalles with a train
of thirteen 'wagons upon the /
hazardous undertaking of ,'
crossing the Cascade Moun- ;
tains. With the advice of 'i
Joel Palmer and others in \
the train a route lying along '
the south side of Mt. Hood
was chosen. Upon reach-
ing the top of the divide the
emigrants were compelled to
abandon their wagons. They
succeeded in reaching the
settlement December 23. As
soon as the snows sufficiently melted in 1846, the wagons
were safely taken into the valley, despite the fact that at
different times it 'was necessary to chain them to trees so
that they could be let down over cliffs to other cliffs below,
and so on until they were drawn by the teams again. In
SAMUEL K. BARLOW
EPOCH III 107
July theae wagons, which were the first to cross the Cascade
Range and to come over an all-wagon route from the states
to the Willamette Valley, arrived in Oregon City.^ Upon
learning that the emigrants had taken their teams and
wagons across the mountains the surprised Doctor McLough-
lin said, "These Yankees can do anything." The important
route along which the new road lay was afterward named
Barlow Pass in honor of its principal discoverer and pro-
1 by hundredi of admire:
Southern Oregon Emigrant Road Opened in 1846. For
more than two decades the Hudson's Bay Company trail
was the only traversed route through Southern Oregon. But
in the meantime it came to be believed that this trail lay
'Tlie first wagon of this train to reach Oregon City was driven
by Reuben Gant who died at Philomath, Oregon, ia 1917 at the ad-
vanced age oC 98 years.
1 Od HISTORY OF OREGON
along a more practical route to the Willamette Valley than
the newly discovered route by the way of Barlow Pass;
and a plan was devised for a new emigrant road into Ore-
gon. This road was to leave the old Oregon road at Fort
Hall, then to follow the Truckee and the Humboldt River,
to cross the Modoc and the Klamath country and the moun-
tains into the Rogue River Valley, then pass through the
Umpqua Canyon onward into the Willamette Valley. By
incredible effort with ax and saw, ropes and chaiijis, in 1 846,
emigrants with their wagons and teams came over the South-
ern Oregon route which they developed into a widened trail ;
but which later was made into a practical wagon road.
Settlement of the Oregon Question. Americans had
come to Oregon in such numbers that they began to domi-
nate the country, north as well as south of the Columbia —
a condition which the British fur traders did not overlook.
Also the agitation of the Oregon question throughout the
United States so interested the American people that many
became unwilling to accept the 49th parallel as the north
boundary of Oregon. When James K. Polk, in 1 844, was
chosen President, it was believed that the national campaign
shibboleth — *Tifty-four forty or Fight,*' had much to do
in electing him. Also the Oregon question was given promi-
nence in the President's inaugural address. However, the
United States exhibited willingness to compromise on the
49th parallel, an offer which the British minister courteously
refused. Congress then voted to put an end to joint occu-
pation in Oregon; but to avert war, the President, upon the
advice of John C. Calhoun, opened the question with Great
Britain again, and that nation, in June 1 846, agreed to
accept the 49th parallel as the boundary. Upon the advice
of the Senate, the President signed the treaty, June 15, 1 846,
by which Oregon was distinguished as the first and only
American territory that the United States of America has
acquired on this continent without either bloodshed or cash
purchase.
First Newspaper West of the Missouri. The "Oregon
Spectator," a semi-tnonthly publication issued at Oregon
Oregon Spectator.:
Voir. Ma.ORr,ita^T- ih™-.. at.i jh«i. r^o t ,
1=.--=^
City, February 5, 1846, was the first newspaper published
west of the Missouri River. Its first editor was Colonel W.
G. T'Vault. The "Spectator,"
which was non-political, be-
came chiefly useful in dissem-
inating the laws and acts of the
Provisional Government.
First Oregon Fruit Nursery.
The first fruit nursery of
Oregon was known as the
Traveling Nursery because it
was brought to Oregon on
wheels. Henderson Luelling.
a prosperous nurseryman of
Henry County, Iowa, con-
ceived the idea of conveying
trees by wagons to Oregon.
Thereupon in the early spring
of 1647, with his son Alfred, Hendebson LUEu-ma
he started westward driving two four yoke ox teams hauling
1 1 HISTORY OF OREGON
about 800 vigorous young trees. They arrived at the
present site of Milwaukie, November 27th. Their trees^^
consisted of different varieties of apple, pear, peach, plum,
and cherry, and were in immediate demand; hence the
nursery was permanently established in that locality, and
gave to Oregon the name of the "Land of the Big Red Ap-
ples." So important, therefore, was the Traveling Nursery
that Ralph C. Geer, who took much interest in the first fruit
culture of Oregon, remarked: "Those two loads of trees
brought more wealth to Oregon theui any ship that ever
entered the Columbia River." Such was the beginning of
the first nursery on the Pacific Coast of America.
Territorial Courts. When the territorial government
of Oregon was established by Act of Congress, August 14,
1848, it was provided by the same Act that the judicial
power of the Territory shall be vested in a Supreme Court,
District Courts, Probate Courts, and in Justices of the Peace;
the Supreme Court to consist of a Chief Justice and two Asso-
ciate Justices. The Chief Justice and Associate Justices were
authorized to hold the district court. In its largest sense,
this Territorial Court was a Federal Court; it was national
in its significance, and it had jurisdiction not only of matters
which would be cognizable in the courts were the Territory
a state, but of all matters which were made cognizable in
the Federal or United States courts.
The Oregon Coast Range Ablaze. Before white men
lived at Coos Bay a great fire swept along the Coast Range,
leaving black stumps and trunks of trees along the hills and
mountains that had been templed with beautiful groves for
ages. These mute reminders of the conflagration can be
seen to this day. There have been many fires in the Coast
Range, hence the date of the Great Fire has been somewhat
in question. There is evidence that a conflagration in 1 776
iln 1851, a good crop of apples and cherries was harvested from
these trees, and four bushels of apples were sold in San Francisco
for $500.— Chapman's "Story of Oregon."
EPOCH III in
and another in 1 836 swept over the same region. However,
Indians, whose methods of calculation are somewhat un-
certain, have fixed the time of the Great Fire in the Oregon
Coast Range at about 1 846, in which year it is known from
other sources that a fire devastated the country south of
Tillamook. Indians connect the Great Fire with the coming
of the first trading ship into Coos Bay. To know the year
when the first trading ship appeared in Coos Bay is to know,
therefore, the date of the great Oregon Coast Range fire of
which Nature and the Red Man tell us. Some information
bearing on this date has been obtained.
In 1898 Chief Cutlip of the Coos Bay Indians related
the following through an official interpreter to Major T. J.
Buford, of the Siletz Agency: When Chief Cutlip vras a
young man a sailing vessel came into Coos Bay to trade for
furs. It was the first ship his people had ever seen. They
stood on the shore and watched the ship until it came well
into the Bay; and believing it to be the **Spirit boat," they
all ran away. When the vessel anchored, the men aboard
displayed bright garments and glittering beads and other
trinkets, and beckoned to the Indians to come to them.
Cutlip, being the chief, took two of his men and ventured
aboard. The officers gave each a suit of clothes and many
other presents among which was sugar — the first which the
Indians had ever tasted — ^and then indicated by sig^s that
they wished to trade with the Indians. Cutlip returned to
his people; and after a parley the tribe decided to trade
with the white men. This was the beginning of fur trade
with the whites who came by ship to Coos Bay.
. Destruction of Life. This being the year of the great
fire along the Coast Range, the superstitious Indians attrib-
uted the fire to the presence of the white man*s boat. There
had been other forest fires in that locality, but this one was
so terrible that much game and many Indians were burned
to death and the Indians who survived lamented the coming
1 1 2 HISTORY OF OREGON
of the "white sail.*' The heat was so intense at Coos Bay
that the Indians were driven into the water for protection.
At the close of the interview. Chief Cutlip's account of
the intolerable heat was confirmed by Salmon River John
another aged Indian who weighed his words carefully as he
spoke. He said the fire was so great that the flames leaped
across Yaquina Bay, that many of the Indians perished, and
that only those were saved who took refuge in the
water; and even they suffered much while their heads were
exposed to the heat.^
The Greatest Forest Fire in Oregon. (1848). There
have been so many destructive fires in the inunense forests
of Oregon 'since its first settlement that it is difficult to nsune
the greatest. But there appears to be no doubt that the
fire which swept over both the Cascade and the Coast
Ranges late in the summer of 1 848 covered a wider area
and ruined more timber than any other before or since.
Then, as now, it was often impossible to trace a forest fire
to its actual beginning. But in those days there were numer-
ous bands of Indians roaming the mountains in quest of
game; and, doubtless, the fire of 1848, originated through
the carelessness of Indian hunters. It was also the practice
of the Indians to fire the brush growth, that grass might
become plentiful for the wild game. At any rate, the fire
of that year was more destructive, in the opinion of those
who saw it, than any that has followed. Men are yet living
who remember that in eastern Maiheur County in the region
of Silver Creek Falls the atmosphere became so hot that it
iThe Fire as Viewed from Sea by Night. Night is supreme, but
darkness will not come. The world's on fire. The forests are ablaze.
Flames leaping skyward from the tallest trees, burst and vanish.
Sparks soar and fall upon the bosom of a blood red sea. They
dampen and die. Gigantic pines, fir, spruce and hemlocks fall in
the flaming path. The red among the higher branches fades into
the white and blinding furnace below. The roar and crackle carry
far out to sea and warn the sailor. A hundred miles it runs along
the Coast Range and the shore, the greatest fire chronicled in
northwest history. — S. S. Harralson.
epcx:h III 113
practically evaporated the water in that stream and many
fish were killed. In many places the water stood in pools
only, and was the color of lye.
The Forest Fire of 1867. Another tremendously de-
structive fire swept over the Coast mountains in the summer
of 1 867, and laid waste to a vast area of the finest of timber.
Many people who had gone to the beach for camping and
who had started homeward were compelled to return to the
beach and remain a week longer. A well known farmer of
the Willamette Valley who had started home was compelled
to drive his team into the small stream of Salmon River and
remain there all night to avoid the immense heat of the
fires. Schools of fish, frightened at the heat and confusion
frequently scared his horses and the man was crippled in
his effort to control his team. These three fires are perhaps
the most destructive known to the history of Oregon and
the thousands of acres of whitened stumps of former giants
of the forests, to be seen now in all of our ranges of moun-
tains, bear witness to their ravages in the days long before
the national government had taken steps for the patrol of
the mountains by Forest Rangers.
Growing Troubles at Whitnaan Mission. As has been
stated, Doctor Whitman in October, 1836, established a
mission that was named after him. Here the Indians were
taught to read the Bible, and to cultivate the soil, raise cattle,
and perform other kinds of civilized labor. Here also Indian
orphans and white children were given a home and educated.
The Doctor generously and freely gave medical care. But
the habits of the Indians were so different from those of the
whites that the same kind of medical care could not be given
successfully to both races. When the whites and Indians
were stricken with measles, the Indians who were treated
by the Doctor persisted in regularly taking cold plunges in
the Walla Walla River, contrary to his advice; and necessa-
rily this proved fatal to many of them Then the Indian doc-
tor, or Medicine Man, who beheld with envy Doctor Whit-
1 1 4 HISTORY OF OREGON
man's growing influence with the Indians, charged that the
whites were being cured, but that Doctor Whitman was
exterminating the Indians by his treatment, in order that
the whites might occupy the Indian possessions. It was
also pointed out by Thomas Hill, an educated Shawnee,
that Doctor Whitman had a few years before made a mid-
winter journey across the continent to persuade more whites
to come west; and that in the following summer of 1843
he piloted the emigration train of 875 persons to the Oregon
Country in order that the whites might overrun the territory
and eventually drive the Indians away from the land of their
fathers, as the whites had already driven the Shawnees
from their land. At this time Joe Lewis, a half-breed
Indian who had been befriended by Doctor Whitman, was
aided by other Indians in kindling the growing antagonism
into a flame of wrath among the tribesmen. As a result of
these and other forces that were at work it was decided by
the Cayuses to exterminate the protestant missionaries in
that country, and in order to make their destruction com-
plete, they determined also to kill the whites of the other
protestant missions east of the Cascade Mountains. To con-
duct successfully this general massacre of the whites, the
Cayuses found it necessary to form alliances with all Indians
affected by the missionary movement, and emissaries were
sent to other tribes to urge their cooperation.
The Whitnaan Massacre. Hints from friendly Indians
and the sulky manner of the hostiles convinced Doctor Whit-
man that treachery was intended. The sacrifice that Doc-
tor and Mrs. Whitman had undergone in aiding the Indians
was already so great that taken together with hostile threats,
the Doctor and his wife at last realized that thev had too
long delayed their departure from the Waiilatpu Mission.
On the afternoon of November 29, 1847, »:he Indians sud-
denly broke into the mission house and bc\rbarously and
treacherously killed Doctor and Mrs. Whtiman and reven
others. A few days later they massacred five more. They
also took captive about fifty women and children of the
mission, and others temporarily there to be held for ransom
as hostages to guarantee immunity from punishment by the
whites as they claimed — though some were not intended to
be released.
After the Whitman Massacre. Following the Whitman
Massacre three urgent requests were rnade for immediate
relief and protection for the ^vhitcs. The first came to Van-
couver from William McBean, of Fort Walla Walla, asking
that a party be sent to ransom the prisoners; the second was
from Alanson Hinman asking that an armed force be pro-
vided to protect the station at The Dalles; the third was
made by Governor Abemethy 'who asked the Legislature
for enough troops to capture the murderers of the Whitman
Mission victims, and to subdue the warlike tribes.
The MUsion Captives Ransomed. News of the Whit-
man massacre was sent by Agent William McBean, of Fort
Walla Walla, to James Douglas, chief factor at Fort Van-
couver. The authorities at Vancouver promptly notified
1 1 6 HISTORY OF OREGON
Governor Abernethy; and Peter Skeen Ogden of the Hud-
son's Bay Company immediately departed for the scene of
the tragedy, his object being to rescue the women and chil-
dren taken captive. On December 19th, he addressed the
Cayuse chiefs at Fort Walla Wallau censuring them for per-
mitting the murderous deed. After reminding them of the
probable vengeance that would be visted upon them Ogden
told the chiefs that his whites were traders and neutrals,
who wished to buy the captives and prevent further trouble
and bloodshed. Ogden made liberal presents to the chiefs
and upon his threats the captives were released. Nine days
later they arrived at Oregon City amidst much rejoicing.
^^Oregon Rifles" Sent to The Dalles. Upon learning of
the Whitman Massacre, Governor Abernethy, on December
8, sent to the legislature a message concerning the serious-
ness of conditions and also issued a call for volunteers. The
same day a company of forty-five volunteers was orgeuiized
in Oregon City for the purpose of protecting The Dalles,
which at that season of the year was the **Pass of Thermop-
ylae,** through which the Cayuse Indians and their allies
were compelled to go before entering the Willamette Valley.
This company, which was the first military force organized
for the protection of Oregon, weis csJled the **Oregon
Rifles**;^ because the members of the compeuiy furnished
their own rifles and equipment.
The Cayuse War. In addition to other troubles with
Oregon Indians, there have been five wars with them. They
were the Cayuse War ( 1 848), The Rogue River Indian War
(1851-1856), The Modoc War (1873), War with the Nez
Perces (1877), and the Piute-Banock War (1878). The
iThose without rifles and ammunition were supplied on their
personal credit by Doctor McLoughlin, who hesitated to trust the
Provisional Government because he lacked confidence in its finan-
cial stability. The "Oregon Rifles" went into camp at The Dalles,
Dec. 21, 1847. The "Oregon Rifles" will not be mistaken for the
"Rifle Regiment," which came to Oregon in 1849.
1 1 8 HISTORY OF OREGON
Cayuse War was important chiefly for the reason that for a
time it seemed as if the Indisois might exterminate all the
white settlers of Oregon. Ill feeling had existed among the
Indians toward the white people, but the war was precipi-
tated by the Whitman massacre.
A Regiment of Volunteers Organized. In accordance
with the Legislative Acts of Dec. 8, 1847, a regiment of
fourteen companies volunteered for the purpose of suppress-
ing the troubles with the Cayuse Indians and their allies.
Colonel Cornelius Gilliam was placed in command, and with
fifty men reached The Dalles on the 2 3d of January, 1 848,
followed three days later by the remainder of the regiment.
On the 2 7th Colonel Gilliam moved eastward toward Walla
Walla.
March to the Enemy's Country. '^Colonel Gilliam de-
sired to press forward as rapidly as possible; for it was
plainly evident that if the war was not carried to the Uma-
tilla, the Willamette Valley might soon be molested. Also
it was equally evident that to permit the murderers to escape
would give the Cayuses confidence to commit further crimes.
On February 25, the Cayuses and their allies from the north
side of the river, felt strong enough to force a battle. Their
position was on the elevated sage-brush plains west of the
Umatilla River; and their boast was 'that the whites should
never drink of its waters'." — H. S. Lymsui.
Cayuse Chiefs Profess Wizard Powers. But the Cayuse
Indians, who seemed imbued with some kind of sorcery, were
deluded into the belief that the white man's gun could not
kill their Chief Five Crows; and War Eagle, another chief
of that tribe, stated that he could swallow all the bullets the
whites might shoot at him. To prove that they were in-
vulnerable, the medicine chiefs rode into open view of the
volunteers and shot a little dog that ran to meet them. A
well-aimed bullet from the rifle of Captain Thomas McKay
crashed through the brain of War Eagle, while a load of
buckshot from the gun of Lieutenant Charles McKay dis-
EPOCH 111 119
abled Chief Five Crows so that he gave up the command
of his warriors. Events like these proved disheartening to
the Indians, many of whom had from the beginning shared
only slight sympathy with their tribesmen.
Attacks and Skirmishes. After a battle of three hours,
the Ca3aise Indians retreated from the Umatilla to the Walla
Walla River, where they learned that the Nez Perces had de-
cided not to join them. They then began to realize that many
of their own tribe were not in sympathy with the war against
the whites. To add to their discouragement. Colonel Gil-
liam obtained the Hudson's Bay Company stores of ammu-
nition at Fort Walla Walla. However, several vigorous
attacks and lively skirmishes took place. At Touchet the
Indians successfully disputed the further progress of the
troops; but not knowing that they had won a victory, the
Indians retreated across the Snake River where it was not
practicable to pursue them. At this time, for various rea-
sons, the troops were ordered to return down the Columbia,
during which journey Colonel Gilliam was killed by the
accidental discharge of a gun, and Colonel Henry A. G. Lee
was chosen to succeed him.
Elnd of the Cayuse Wai*. The Cayuse Indians, having been
reduced in rank and prestige and being discredited by their
allies, ostracized the murderers, who were fineJly captured
on the John Day River by the Nez Perces. The prisoners
were taken to Oregon City, where they received a fair trial
for murdering Doctor Whitman and eleven others at Whit-
man Mission; upon being found guilty by a jury and sen-
tenced by the federal judge they were hanged by Joseph
Meek, the U. S. Marshal, June 3, 1850. Thus ended the
Ca3aise War, which established authority over the Indians
and gave the Americans prestige over the Hudson's Bay
Company. Through the results of the Cayuse war the whites
became more united, became more patriotic toward the
American Government, and loyally combined against the
common foe — the Indian.
1 20 HISTORY OF OREGON
Why Marcus Whitman Was Famous. "After living in
Oregon a number of years, Doctor Marcus Whitman dis-
covered that the ElngUsh were discouraging American emi-
grsoits from settHng there, and were colonizing it with their
countrymen. Late in 1 842, he set out for Washington, D. C,
and on arriving there in March, 1843, gave the government
valuable information which led to extensive colonization
on the part of the Americans, and in all probability kept
Oregon from falling into the hands of the British." — (Harp-
er's Encyclopedia of History). Other authorities, however,
relate that his visit was solely to the mission board at Boston,
in the interest of the Oregon Mission, over which the board
had supervision.
What History Verifies Concerning Doctor Whibnan.
Concerning the purpose of Doctor Whitman's midwinter
journey across the continent and his mission at Washington
City historians differ. But all agree that there were various
causes which contributed to his fame. 1 . In 1835, he accom-
panied Doctor Samuel Parker to ascertain the prospect for
missionary work among the Indians in the far West. When
they had journeyed as far west as Green River, they were
convinced that missionaries would receive a welcome among
vaurious Columbia River tribes. Having obtained the infor-
mation sought, Doctor Whitman returned to the East for
aid in the establishment of one or more missions west of the
Rocky Mountains. 2. He took the first missionary families
to what is now Eastern Washington (1836) but which was
then in the Oregon Country. 3. He established Whitman
Mission (1836). 4. He rendered valuable assistance to
the great emigrant train of 1843, which opened the way for
wagon migration from Fort Boise to the Walla Walla Valley
and the Columbia River. 5. His death (1847) though a
sad one, was a factor in bringing about a war with the
Indians, which happily resulted in uniting the whites and
in committing them to the American cause regardless of
their nationality.
EPOCH 111
121
Oregonian Discovered Gold in California. "The dis-
covery of gold in California one of the events which lifted
the United States above all other nations, was made by
James W. Marshall, who came to Oregon as a settler in
1844. Two years later he went to California, Soon he
became the partner of Captain John A. Sutter, who had
visited Oregon in 1839 and going to
California had built Sutter's Fort on
the present site of Sacramento City.
Marshall was sent up from Sutter's
Fort into the Sierra Nevada Moun-
tains to select a site and build a saw
mill. He chose the point at Coloma,
on the south fork of the American
I^ver, and built the mill. After turn-
ing on the water January 24, 1848,
he discovered in the tail race shining
particles of gold which the water had
washed from the sand. Two other
Oregonians who had been employed
by Marshall — Charles Bennett,' and
Stephen Staats of Polk County —
were called to look at the gold in the
water and confirm the discovery."
Significance of Marshall's Gold
Dbcovery jPfee Si ff n ifioan « c ef ihe
Gold Discove-ryi in California by
James W. Marshall, is described by Gaston as "one of the
greatest industrial events of the world." In his history of
Oregon, he adds, — "A careful survey of the whole field of
enterprise, the commerce of the world, and the standard of
living in the United States, will show that the discovery of
■Certain authorities claim that Charles Bennett was the real
discoverer of gold at Sutter's Mill; but it is probable that history will
indorse the verdict of California, which has honored Marshall with
a memorial for discovering the gold.
1 2 2 HISTORY OF OREGON
gold wrought a greater change throughout the United States
and the financial relations of this country to other nations
than any other fact subsequent to the independence of the
United States.
Scarcity of Gold * Prior to the year 1848, the United
States possessed a very narrow base for a circulating med-
ium ; and that was mostly silver. Gold coin was exceedingly
scarce; and on this account the financial standing of this
country and the rating of its securities were practically at
the mercy of the Bank of England and the House of Roth-
childs, which institution controlled the great bulk of the
gold coin of the world. When the mines of CeJifomia com-
menced to pour out their flood of wealth, every kind of busi-
ness throughout the United States took on new life. Within
five years after this discovery, there were more msoiufactur-
ing establishments started in the United States than had
been for a generation before that time. Bsoiking institutions
took on a new phase altogether and began to accumulate
gold. Gold begot confidence a nothing else ever had before,
and people more freely deposited their savings in banks,
while the banks were enabled to extend accommodations to
manufacturers and producers of wealth. And r2dlroads that
had been for twenty years creeping out slowly from the At-
lantic seaports to the Allegheny Mountains found sale for
their securities, pushed on over the mount2dns into the great
Mississippi Valley, and on across the continent reaching
Portland, Oregon, a quarter of a century before they were
expected to reach Chicago under the old paper money sys-
tem. The flood of gold changed the whole face of affairs,
put new life into all business and commercial undertakings,
brought all the states and communities together under one
single standard of values, and pushed the United States to
the front as the greatest wealth-producing nation.**
EPOCH III
123
Oregon Became a Territory. Various memorials had
been sent to Congress requesting full recognition of the Ore-
gon Territory by the United States Government, But slav-
ery and other national questions delayed a favorable reply
to the petitioners until August I 3, 1 848, at which time the
measure was finally passed by Congress giving the Oregon
Territory a government authority. Upon signing the bill,
President Polk appointed General Joseph Lane governor
of the Territory of Oregon, and Joseph Meek, who was thor-
oughly familiar with existing conditions in Oregon, was
chosen United States Marshal.
Oregon School Lands Increased. First Territory to
ObtainEaoh Thirty-sixth Section. While Congress was con-
sidering the advisability of extending territorial government
over Oregon, various collat-
eral questions arose, one of-
which was Government Aid
to Schools as a Means of
Education. In this connec-
tion "The Centennial History
of Oregon" says:
"To Nathan Dane, of
Massachusetts, who was a
member of the Continental
Congress from 1 785 to 1 787
is due the honor of framing
the memorable ordinance of
1787 which organized the
great northwest territory,
prohibited slavery therein,
and declared that 'schools
as the means of education
shall be forever encouraged."
By a previous act of the san
of a contract made by the officers of the United States
treasury with Rev. Manasseh Cutler and Winthrop Sargent.
J. QUINW THOBHTMI
vbo spent the euminer of ia4B In
WMhlDston. D. O., Bi ft dfllagate from
the FTOvUlanll Oavernment at OieEon.
nd i
i congress, i
1 pursuance
1 24 HISTORY OF OREGON
of the State of Connecticut, in October I 787, the
section of public land in each township in all states formed
out of the northwest territory was devoted to the support
of public schools.
In framing the act for the organization of Oregon
territory, the thirty-sixth section of land in each township
was added to the sixteenth for the support of public schools
in Oregon, and every state organized since 1848 has thus
been endowed.
1849 ABi
OREGON UNDER
THE TERRITORIAL
GOVERNMENT
CHAPTER VlII
Motto Alia Volat Propriis"
No man occupied a more
prominent place in the hiS'
tory of Oregon in the territorial days and in the
years immediately following than General Joseph Lane, the
first Territorial Governor. He was born in North Carolina
on December 14, 18DI. was reared in Kentucky, moved to
Indiana when a young man, and served with distinction in
the Mexican War. Upon receiving his appointment as gov-
ernor of Oregon, he proceeded with Joe Meek to Oregon
City, the capital of the territory, where they arrived March
2, 1849, and he assumed the duties of his office on the third
which was but one day before the expiration of the term of
President polk,
126 HISTORY OF OREGON
JOSEPH LANE. THE FIRST TERRITORIAL GOVERNOR
{March 3. 1849)
Upon assuming the duties of his office. Governor Joseph
Lane immediately began taking a census of the new terri-
toiy, which showed a population of 8,785 Americans and
298 foreigners. On June 1 8, 1 850, he resigned the governor-
ship under the wrong impression that the ne^ President of
the United States had appointed a successor. Mr. Lane be-
came a candidate for delegate to Congress in 1651 and was
elected. Ide was again appointed Governor on May 16,
I 85 3. but three days after
qualifying for the position
again resigned and became
a candidate for Congress.
He was elected, and suc-
cessively re-elected to that
position, until the terri-
tory was admitted as a
state in February, 1859,
From the General Govern-
ment, he accepted a com-
mission as Brigadier- Gen-
eral in command of the
volunteers, and was active-
ly engaged in suppressing
Indian hostilities in South-
ern Oregon in 1853. Gen-
eral Lane ^vas elected one
of the first United States Senators upon Oregon's admission
into the Union and served for a period of two years. He was
a candidate for Vice-President of the United States in I 860.
He died at his residence in Roseburg, Oregon, in April,
1881, aged 80 years.
OOVEBNOR JOSEPH LANE
EPOCH IV
127
Territorial Seal of Oregon. Upon the establishment of
a territorial foim of government in 1849, a ne^ seal was
adopted known a8 the Seal of the Territory of Oregon.
Characteristic of those times, a ship denoting commerce
OOVEKNOB JOSEPH LANE BBIHOIHO TBBBITOBIAL QOVEBiniEMT
TO OBBCKMI
was placed in the midst of the seal. Above the ship was a
beaver denoting fur trade, while below was a plow repre-
senting agriculture. At the left of the ship stood an Indian
with bow and arrows, while at the right was an eagle. Reach-
ing from the shoulder of the Indian to the beak of the eagle
and circling above the beaver was an
unfurled banner bearing the terri-
torial motto, "Alis Volat Propriis"
— She flies with her own wings —
impljring self-reliance. The legend
of the territorial seal was "Seal of
the Territory of Oregon." Instead
of the date, five stars appeared at
the bottom of the territorial seal of
Oregon.
Beaver Coins. The early set-
tlers of Oregon suffered much inconvenience because of the
SEAL OF OBEOOH
TEBBITOBIAL
OOVEBmiENT
128
HISTORY OF OREGON
TEVDOUiABf.
scarcity of coin. When a farmer purchased goods, he
usually offered in exchange a calf, or wheat, or a beaver
skin, or something of the kind. In fact, wheat was made
legal tender under the Provisional Government. Notwith-
standing the scarcity of money, the people generally pros*
pered. When gold was discovered in California, much of
it came to Oregon, so that there was more gold per capita
in Oregon than ever
before or afterward.
Because gold dust was
so plentiful and some-
what difficult to han-
dle, merchants allowed
only $ 1 to $ 1 1 an
ounce for it; although
it was really worth
about $ 1 8 an ounce.
This led the Provision-
al Government to ar-
range for the coining
of five and ten dollar
gold pieces. **But the
termination of the Provisional Government by the arrival
of Governor Lane rendered the statute nugatory."^ As a
remedial measure the Oregon Exchange Company was
promptly organized, and immediately proceeded to the
coining of gold pieces having the veJue of $5 and $10 re-
spectively. This money was called **Beaver Money" for the
reason that a beaver was stamped on each coin. Containing
eight percent more gold than coins from the U. S. Mint,
beaver money disappeared from circulation as soon as U. S.
currency became plentiful. Therefore, with the exception
of a few mementoes, the Oregon beaver coins exist only in
history. It is somewhat singular that **no one was ever
FIVE DOLLARS
OREGON BEAVER COINS
I'Topular History of Oregon.
»»
EPOCH IV 129
prosecuted for this infringement of the constitutional prohi-
bition of the coining of money by State sovemments or
individuals."
FfHTt Dalles. The arrival of United States troops — the
Rifle Regiment — late in the fall of 1649, resulted in the
establishment of the military post at The Dalles. In the
following May, the log Fort Dalles was built and occupied
by Major Tucker. In 1858 Colonel George Wright in
command of the 9th U. S. Infantry replaced the old log
barracks with a fine new fort of which there remains only
one building. Hiis vr&s the surgeon's quarters. It is now
the property of the Oregon Historical Society. It serves the
purpose of the local historical building, by ^hich name it is
known. The site of Fort Dalles overlooks the canap' of
Lewis and Clark where the American flag in October 1 805
was displayed for the first time in that part of Oregon.
iNear the O. W. R. N. Co.'a Passenger Depot.
1 30 HISTORY OF OREGON
Names of Two Counties Changed. On the third of
September 1849, the Territorial Legislature changed the
name of Twality County to Washington County, in honor
of George Washington. Also on the same day Champooick
County, (which had come to be spelled Champoeg) was
changed to Marion County in honor of General Francis Mar-
ion, of the Americsoi Revolutionary War.
EPOCH IV 131
GOVERNORS PRITCHETT AND GAINES
June 18, 1850— May 16, 1853
To Kintziiig Pritchett of Michigan, belongs the dis-
tinction of having been Governor of Oregon Territory for
sixty days. He was appointed secretary of the Territory by
President Polk upon its creation by Congress and served in
that capacity until the resignation of Governor Joseph Lane
on June 18. 1850. John P. Gaines had been appointed
Governor but did not arrive in Oregon until August, taking
the oath of office on the 18th of that month. During this
interim, Mr. Pritchett served as Governor.
Governor John P. Gaines Received His Appointment
from the newly elected president, Zachary Taylor, and
assumed the duties of his office August 16. 1850. He
served as Governor of Ore-
gon until May 16, 1853. In
1835 he was the whig nom-
inee for Congress, but was
defeated by Joseph Lane. He
died at his home in Marion
County, in 1857.
In connection with the
appointment of Mr. Gaines
in 1 849, it is worthy of note
that the position was first
offered to Abraham Lincoln,
w4io8e term in Congress had
just expired. Mr. Lincoln
had taken an active part in
the campaign which resulted
in Taylor's election to the oov. JOHN p. oaines
presidency, and made a special trip to Washington City to
support his application for the appointment as Commission-
er of the General Land Office; but that position had already
132
HISTORY OF OREGON
been promised to another. President Taylor, however,
offered to appoint him Governor of Oregon Territory, but
Mn. Lincoki, his wife, objected to going to such a far-
distant section, and the offer was declined. It is interesting
to surmise what the effect
would have been on the
history of the United
States, if Lincoln had be-
come Governor of Oregon
Territory.
Capital Changed
fron^ Oregon City to Sa<
lenrt. A bitter contest wras
^aged against the pro-
posed removal of the Ter-
ritorial Capital from Ore-
gon City to some point
further south. Governor
Lane had by proclamation
declared Oregon City to be the capital, but the session of
1830 passed an act locating the seat of government at Sa-
lem. Governor Gaines refused to recognize the constitu-
tionality of the act, and v^as sustained by t^vo of the supreme
judges; and ^hite the judges remained at Oregon City, the
legislature met in Salem. On May 14, 1852, Congress set-
tled the matter by confirming the act of the legislature.
Soutbera Oregon Military Road BoilL With the settle-
ment of Southern Oregon came the demand for wagon
roads. Being at the head of tidewater navigation on the .
Umpqua River, Scottsburg was. in 1850, the starting point
for commercied operations with the interior and especially
with the gold mines of northern California. The original
Indian trails were widened, temporary ferries were estab-
lished at crossings over the Umpqua river, and abrupt de-
clivities avoided, so that a pack horse could cany a load
ABOABAM UHCOLN
EPOCH IV 133
from the ship's side at Scottsburg into the northern edge of
California. But public spirited promoters soon saw the
necessity of a suitable wagon way. Through their influence,
therefore, the Oregon territorial legislature, in 1852-3, was
induced to memorialize congress, with the result that
$120,000 was appropriated from the national treasury for
a military wagon road from Scottsburg to Stewart Creek
in the Rogue River Valley. The route for the road was
surveyed first by Lifeutenant Withers, U. S. A., October,
1854; and after a further appropriation the survey was
completed by Major Atwood, U. S. A., assisted by Jesse
Applegate. The survey practically followed the old South-
ern Oregon Trail. The construction of the road was super-
intended by Colonel Joseph Hooker, detailed by the War
Department for that purpose. The road was completed
in 1858. The Southern Oregon Military Road answered*
the purposes of the people of the Umpqua Valley until the-
completion of the railroad to Roseburg. — Binger Hermann.
First Steamboats Built in Willamette Valley. Steam
propulsion having been established on the rivers of Oregon^
as early as 1836-1837, by the Hudson's Bay Company
steamship * 'Beaver, " Lot Whitcomb, a progressive settler,
built the first steamboat in the Willamette Valley (1850).
She was a side-wheeler, was named after the builder and
owner, engined by Jacob Ksun, and commanded by Captsdn
J. C. Ainsworth. The **Lot Whitcomb" was constructed
almost entirely of Oregon wood, at a site where Milwaukie
now stands. She was projected to run between the Mil-
waukie site and Astoria, touching all points along the route
except Portland which already promised to be a strong
competitor with Milwaukee as the chief townsite on the lower
Willamette River. After a successful career of four years.
1 34 HISTORY OF OREGON
the **Lot Whitcomb** was purchased by a Sacramento firm
that took her to California. The ** Jennie Clark,** built in
1 854 on the ways where the **Lot Whitcomb" was built, vras
the first stem wheel steamer that ran on the rivers of Ore-
gon. She was succeeded by the **Carrie Ladd,*' built in
Portland in 1856. The company that owned the **Carrie
Ladd** came to be the nucleus of the Oregon Steam Navi-
gation Company, whose boats as to efficiency and elegance
in subsequent years became rivals of the * 'Mississippi River
Palaces.'*
EPOCH IV 1 35
WAR WITH THE ROGUE RIVER INDIANS
1850-1856
Causes of the Indian Wars. The long considered ques-
tion as to who and what caused the Indian wars had its rela-
tion to Oregon, as elsewhere in our early settlements.
The First Cause. The natural objection to the invasibn
of the whites and their conquest of the Indian domains, and
trespass upon their hunting and fishing rights. To the mis-
sionary and the trader who laid no claim to the country the
Indian never seriously objected.
The Second. The disregard of the whites as to Indian
rights and privileges. The Indians were too often regarded
as intruders, were forced from their favorite camping
grounds, and driven further and further back to the bleak,
barren and inferior places.
The Third. The Indians feared that they would never
be compensated by the Government for their relinquished
lands. This fear was confirmed by the delays of the Gov-
ernment in the execution of treaty agreements.
Finally, there were the wanton and ruffianly invasions
of unprincipled white men and their violations of the family
and domestic relations of the peaceful and neighboring
Indians, together with lustful and murderous attacks by
these same whites when remonstrated with. Their lands
and their family rights were thus both set at naught. The
saddening inhuman sentiment — **A good Indian is only a
dead Indian** — became among many whites an accepted
axiom. Our history teems with unprovoked attacks upon
unoffending Indians peacefully gathered around their
campfires. Want of space prevents a recital of the many
instances which history unfolds. While this commentary
in no wise justifies many equally savage attacks and rob-
beries on the part of the Indians, it yet sheds a truthful light
on the reasons for much of the Indians* deadly hostility to
the white race. Had the whites treated the Indians with
1 36 HISTORY OF OREGON
decent regard for the principles of humane and reasonable
conduct, aborigineJ sovereignty of the territory would have
been peacefully relinquished, and some of our most desolat-
ing wars and terrible massacres avoided. As to these fast
disappearing people, we can afford at this late day to lift
much of the opprobrium which our history has placed upon
them.
First Treaty with the Rogue River Indians. After a
number of depredations had been committed by the Rogue
River Indians, Governor Lane with fifteen white men and
Chief Quatley of the Klickitats, a fierce enemy of the Rogue
Rivers, set out for Sam*s Valley, where the party arrived
about the middle of June, 1850. Upon invitation from the
Governor, the Indians came for a talk with the view of form-
ing a treaty of peace and friendship. But not understanding
the integrity of Governor Lane, they abused his confidence
by coming one hundred fifty strong with hostile purpose.
After the Governor had instructed them to cease their war-
fare and had also given them assurance that they would be
paid for their land and would be instructed in the knowledge
of the white men, a circle was formed in which stood Lane
and the chiefs. But just before the conference a second
band of Indians appeared, — all fully armed. Lane suspected
treachery, and had Quatley, the Klickitat chief, enter the
circle with a few of his Indians and stand beside the Rogue
River Chief, who uttered words that raised the war cry of
his band. Thereupon, Chief Quatley with one hand seized
the Rogue River Chief, and with the other held a knife
directed at his captive's throat. At this point the captive
Chief, at Governor Lane's request, sent his warriors away
with instructions to return at the end of two days, but not
before. In their absence the Rogue River Chieftain was the
prisoner and guest of Governor Lane; and from what the
savage chief saw and heard during his brief captivity, he
became convinced that it was both policy and wisdom for
his people to join in a treaty of peace with the whites. This
EPOCH IV
137
advice he gave to his warriors when they returned at the
time designated. The treaty of peace was signed, and
Governor Lane gave the Indians slips of paper guaranteeing
them the protection of the whites. As a token of respect
for Goveinor Lane the old Chief requested the Governor to
bestow his name upon him; and the Governor and the peo-
ple ever after knew the chief by the name of "Joe,"
The Battle Rock Incident. During nearly a year the
Indians observed the treaty with Governor Lane. However,
numerous depredations v^ere committed in the vicinity of
Rogue River, which were attributed to the Indians. One of
these occurred in June, 1851, at Port Orford on the Coast
and about thirty miles north from the mouth of the Rogue
River. Nine men had been landed by the steam coaster "Sea
Gutr* to open a trail for pack trains from that place to Jack-
SATILE aooK
sonville. The Indians ordered them to leave; but it was too
late, since the coaster had sailed. Thereupon, on the I 0th of
June, the men carried their effects to the top of a great rock
near by, and loaded a small cannon which had been the
signal gun on the boat. After a spirited harangue by the
chief, a half-hundred Indians rushed up the rock upon a
narrow trail, at which time the carefully aimed cannon hurled
them into eternity. The remaining warriors ^ere put to
flight, and the wailing in the Indian villages for the dead
1 38 HISTORY OF OREGON
was beyond description. That night the victorious party
of nine changed their course from Jacksonville, and after
enduring severe hardships reached the Umpqua Valley, a
hundred miles away. Upon relating the story of their fight
with the Indians, they gave the name * 'Battle Rock" to the
place of their well-earned victory.
Second Indian Outbreak on Upper Rogue River. Chief
Killed by the Whites. On the 2 3d day of June, 1851, thirty-
one Oregon farmers were returning from the California gold
mines, and near Table Rock they were attacked by 200 hos-
tile Indians. The whites were well armed and defended
themselves valiantly. In the struggle the commanding
Indian Chief was killed, with no injury to the whites, except
the loss by robbery of sixteen hundred dollars in gold dust
and nuggets.
Captain Stuart Killed. At the time. Major Phil.
Kearney, of the United States Dragoons, with a few soldiers
was exploring for a roadway from Rogue River through the
Umpqua canyon; and messengers having hastened to notify
him of the difficulty at Table Rock, he rushed to the rescue.
He suddenly came upon the hostiles in ambush and routed
them, with the death of eleven Indians. Captain James
Stuart, who led the whites in the fight, lost his life. His
death, singular to relate, was from an arrow shot by an
Indian whom the Captain had knocked to the earth, bow
in hand. Captain Stuart was buried near the scene of the
battle at the mouth of a little creek, afterwards known as
Stuart Creek.
Arrival of General Lane, This engagement was five
miles below Table Rock. Afterward the hostiles again
rallied at their old resort on top of the rock, from which
they could signal to the Indians at a distance. Major Kear-
ney hesitated to renew the attack upon them entrenched
in that stronghold. He waited for reinforcements and soon
was joined by thirty miners, all well armed, who were on
their way to the Willow Springs mines, not far away. Soon
EPOCH IV 1 39
there also came a body of forty men in company with
General Lane, who were journeying to the California
minea.
Battle of Table Rock. Major Kearney Attacks the
Indiwns. Major Kearney now had a total force of one
hundred men eager to begin the assault of the enemy en-
trenched behind their formidable bulwarks upon Table
TASLE BOOS Photo, Ed, Weston. Medtord, Ore.
Rock, which was the tribal headquarters of the Indians of
Rogue f^ver. On June 23, 1 85 ! , Major Kearney directed
the attack from b^ind log defences. No advantage was
gained that day. On the next day, two more attacks were
made, morning and evening. The Indians were cautiously
directed by Old Chief Joe. later General Lane's friend and
imitator. His boasting voice could be heard declaring that
the white men had few guns, but he had bows enough "to
keep ],000 arrows in the air all the time."
Defeat of the IndiaitS. The Indians held their ground
and fought with such bravery, desperation and strategy that
two days' continuous siege failed to defeat them. Then
Major Kearney offered them terms of peace, demanding
their answer by the next day, which was the 25th. But
^en the day dawned they could be seen hurriedly speeding
down the rocky declivity and the full force retreated down
1 40 HISTORY OF OREGON
the river for seven miles, then crossed over and continued
toward Sardine Creek, a short distance away. The troops
hastily mounted their horses and pursued the hositles, over-
taking them on the opposite side of the river. Instead of
halting and offering battle, the Indians hastily scattered in
all directions, even deserting their squaws and children, who
fell into the hands of the soldiers. The remainder could
not be overtaken, and their pursuit was not continued.
There were thirty among those captured, who were delivered
to General Lane as Major Kearney had no place to retain
them. These were conveyed to a point near where Grants
Pass is now located, and placed in custody of Governor
Gaines, who had gone that far south. This was July 7, 1851.
With these captives in his possession the Governor induced
about eleven of the more prominent Indians, with one hun-
dred others of the tribe, to come in from the field, surrender
and make peace.
More Atrocities. About June 1 , 1 85 3, a party of white
men from Jacksonville, aroused by the massacre of seven
white people near Grave Creek the winter before, caught
a sub-chief named Taylor and two other Indians who were
believed to have been the murderers, and hanged them;
and going to the Indians encamped at Table Rock, they
fired into their village, killing six. These acts impelled the
Indians to engage in numerous horrid atrocities. There
being no military companies in that part of Oregon, volun-
teer white companies were enrolled and Captain Alden's
Company of regulars of Fort Jones in California were called
in aid with arms and ammunition. Aid en was also given
chief command of the volunteers. Governor Curry was
appealed to and sent a volunteer company under Captain
Nesmith and Fort Vancouver sent Lieutenant Kautz with
six artillerymen and a howitzer. Captain Goodall also
came with eighty volunteers from the Umpqua. The enemy
were found on Evans Creek and a fight took place, with
killed and wounded on both sides; and then sin armistice
EPOCH IV 141
was agreed to in which all engaged were to meet at Table
Rock to make a treaty. Before this. General Lane came and
also engaged the enemy. A son of Chief Joe was taken as a
hostage for the Indians* attendance at the treaty grounds.
Second Treaty with Rogue River Indians. **Upon a
little point under the shadowy walls of Table Rock was
enacted the treaty of September 10, 1853, in which the
Rogue River Indians relinquished their land titles and agreed
to move to reservations provided for them. At the armistice
preceding, it was agreed between the chiefs and military
commanders that at. the council at Table Rock all should
be unarmed and equal in numbers. But when the whites
approached the council grounds they were astonished to
behold 700 Indians all armed and reclining upon the grassy
arena. Captain Nesmith expressed to General Lane his
fear that a massacre was premeditated, and as a precaution
had previously concealed a small weapon within his gar-
ments. Being the interpreter, the Captain chose to sit close
by the side of the old chieftain, Joe, so that in case of trou-
ble, the chiefs escape could be prevented. The treaty com-
pact was then read aloud and when nearly concluded, there
rushed into the assemblage an Indian in breathless haste
and with wailing accents proclaimed his grievance. At
once every Indian rifle was uncovered and poised for action.
General Lane arose to his feet, gazed defiantly at the chief,
and without a tremor in his voice, demanded to know the
meaning of the threatening demonstration. He was told
that the miners at Applegate had killed an Indian. The
General replied by promising to punish the murderers and
to make indemnity to the tribes, and expressed his astonish-
ment that those present should so treacherously plan vio-
lence upon the few whites present. This pacified the Indians.
As the officers were returning to their commands, Nesmith
observed to Lane, *When you have another council of war,
I wish to be excused.' The general said in reply: *Captsdn
luck is always better than war*." — Binger Herman.
1 42 HISTORY OF OREGON
Third Outbreak of the Rogue River Indians. Being
convinced that war with the Rogue River Indians was about
to begin again, Governor Curry on the 1 5 th of October,
1855, issued a proclamation from Corvallis, the temporary
capital of Oregon, for nine companies of mounted cavalry.
Four companies, designated as the southern battalion, were
to have headquarters at Jacksonville. The Northern bat-
talion, which was to consist of five companies — two from
Lane, one from Linn, one from Umpqua and one from
Douglas— were to rendezvous at Roseburg. Each volunteer
was to furnish his own horse, arms and. equipment, and was
to receive four dollars per day from the territory of Oregon-
for his services. It is said that every able bodied man of
proper age in the district placed his name on the muster
rolls, which accounts for the fact that there were in all about
eight hundred volunteers.
Battle of Grave Creek. The volunteers found a large
number of Indians on a rugged ridge between Cow Creek
and Grave Creek. From Grave Creek House the troops
moved at midnight, and by daybreak the next morning;
October 30, they reached a high point, formerly occupied
■h
A Heroine of the Rogue River War. "The ninth of October, 1855,
was one of the bloodiest days in Oregon Indian warfare. It had
been the design of the Indians to wipe out the white population of
Rogue River on that day, and they almost succeeded in their gory
undertaking. To give an idea of the terrible experiences of the.
white people, the following incident is related: By noon, when the
savages had carried on murder and devastation throughout much of
the settlement, they shot a Mr. Harris. The wounded man ran into
his home and fell. His wife barred the door, and with rifle, shot-
gun and pistols kept the Indians away while she cared for her
dying husband and a little daughter, also wounded in the fray.
Within an hour the husband was a corpse, but the heroine, with the
dead husband and wounded daughter at her feet, courageously de-
fended her home till near nightfall, when the Indians withdrew.
Relief arriving the next day, the bereaved mother and daughter
were taken to Jacksonville where they were given such comfort
and consolation as conditions would permit; and the mother — the
heroine of the previous day — ^was lauded as a typical home-defender
of the Oregon frontier." — Pioneer Campfire.
EPOCH IV 143
by the Indians. Some hours later the savages were seen on
Bald Peak, a high mountain a few miles to the north. A
mile distant, the troops saw the Indians drawn up in line
of battle. Thereupon the volunteers became so eager for
the fray that they threw down their coats and blankets and
made an assault. The Indians retired into the brush, whence
they poured a deadly fire into the ranks of the soldiers. All
day long the battle continued ; and at dark the whites retired
a short distance to obtain water for their wounded and dy-
ing. The next morning the Indians made a desperate attack,
but were forced to retire to the brush. Nevertheless **they
retained a good position on the battle ground and held
their scalp dance to celebrate the victory. But the victory
was dearly purchased, inasmuch as the Indians not only
failed to pursue the retreating whites, but left immediately
for their stronghold down the Rogue River."
Last Battle with the Rogue River Indians. *The last
and most eventful year of the war came in 1856 at the
Big Meadows on Rogue River near where the hostiles had
fortified for a final test. Gen. Lamerick, Col. Kelsay,
Col. W. W. Chapman and Major Bruce were active in
command of the volunteers. The battle began but was
maintained by the volunteers with so little energy and dar-
ing that the casualties were small on both sides. It was
really a draw. The whites went into camp and the Indians
witKdrew.
''The Government was discouraged with these ineffec-
tual attempts to overcome the hostilities, and resolved upon
a more determined and decisive prosecution of the war.
Regular troops were ordered up from California^ in addi-
tion to those already in the country. The Indians observing
these preparations, assembled in their natural fortifications
in the mountain fastnesses, for defense, along the Rogue
river. The military plan entered upon was for the California
troops to move up the Coast and ascend the river, and for
those on the upper river to descend and there to concentrate,
1 44 HISTORY OF OREGON
£mcl between them to crush the hostiles on their own ground.
These movements had their influence upon the hostiles, ^^o
being conununicated with agreed to a conference with the
military authorities at a place upon the Illinois river.
''Lieutenant Colonel Buchanan was in command and
most of the regular troops, with throngs of Indians, were
present, at the time and place agreed upon. The main body
of the assembled Indians agreed to remove to the reserva-
tion; all except their great Chief John who insisted on re-
maining upon his own favorite grounds, otherwise he said
he would fight. Another council, to meet at Big Meadows
on May 26th, 1856, was mutually agreed upon, when the
removal to the reservation should begin.
''The Military Under Captain A. J. Smith with his 80
dragoons, was present on the day named, but no Indisins
came. The wretched weather seemed an excuse. Toward
evening two squaws came into camp with a message from
Chief George to Captain Smith, warning him to expect an
attack. The Captain at once removed his troops to a more
elevated and defensive position, and there he prepared to
meet the enemy. Early on the 2 7th he dispatched an aid
over the mountains to Col. Buchanan, announcing the ex-
pected attack. The aid returned with the Colonel's request
to know if reinforcements were desired, to which the Captsdn
explained the necessity for such. His messengers be-
coming lost on the trails, delayed the reply for some hours,
but when received a company under Captain Augur, after-
wards a general in the Civil War, hurried to jSmith*s relief,
and came suddenly in view just as the savages were making
their last assault upon three sides of the beleaguered fort.
The troops had fought all day and already nearly one-half
had been slain and wounded. They had been cut off from
all water and their ammunition was nearly exhausted, while
the Indians were being continually reinforced. The loud
commanding voice of Chief John could be distinctly heard
EPOCH IV
vith all the deliberation a
145
sending forth his orders, '
ness of a military disciplini
"The onrush of Captain Augur's company wa» a sur-
prise to the Indians, who now being attacked in the rear,
made a hurried flight down the hillsides and away into
forest cover to the Chiefs headquarters. The siege was
turned and the day saved.
"This defeat with much loss of life to the Indians,
compelled their surrender on May 30th, with Chief John
and a few of his renegades still holding out. But by July
1st all had gone in, including John, and the Indian Wars
of Southern Oregon were forever at an end.
"The captives, ! 300 in number, were assembled at
Port Orford. From there all were removed to the reserva-
tion." — Binger Herman.
Biih<9 Thomas Fielding
Scott. With the development
of Oregon came the growth
of her churches. Among those
taking firm hold was the Epis-
copal Church, which made ef-
fective appeals for a bishop,
in answer to ^tch, Thomas
Fielding Scott was sent in
1833 as Missionary Bishop of
the Episcopal Church in Ore-
gon. He was chosen from the
diocese of Georgia in 1653,
the selection being made by
the General Convention of the
Episcopal Church then in ses-
sion at New York. Promptly
1 • 1 .. , J ., BISHOP THOMAS TIEUIIHO SCOTT
on his election he assumed the
duties of his office. He found two churches already erected
in Oregon — St. Johns at Milwaukie and Trinity at Portland.
Others were soon built at Salem, Eugene and elsewhere. In
146
HISTORY OF OREGON
the autumn of 1 66 1 the good Bishop opened Spencer Hall,
a girls' school at Miywaukie; and "The Churchman," the
official organ of the diocese, was established that year. "The
Episcopal church was making steady advance, when on July
14, 1867, during an absence in New York Bishop Scott
suddenly died, universally lamented. A fresh impetus was
however imparted to the life of the church when a new
missionary. Bishop B. Wistar Morris, arrived in Oregon,
June, 1869." During the first year of Bishop Morris" in-
cumbency, the church built
two influential schools in
Portland— St. Heleii's Hall for
girls and a grammar and di'
vinity school for boys, named
in honor of Bishop ScotL
When Bishop Scott entered
upon the duties of his office
as missionary, bishop of Ore-
gon, his diocese included the
original territory of Oregon,
which was subsequently divid-
ed into three states and a por-
tion of two others, each of
which now belongs to a dio-
cese of its own.
Gold Discovered in Oregon. When gold was discovered
in California, it was believed that the EI Dorado or "golden
land" extended northward. This led to the discovery of
indications of gold, in 1849, near the present town of Gold
Hill, Oregon. However, the precious metal was not found
in paying quantities. Fabulous prices offered in California
at this time for farm produce led to the discovery of rich
gold mines in a singular manner. In 1851 James Cluggage
and James R. Poole, who were conducting a pack train used
in conveying supplies from Oregon to California, chanced
to camp on the present site of Jacksonville. While search'
BISHOP B. WISTAK M0BBI3
EPOCH IV
147
ing for water, they accidentally found placer gold in what
was afterwards named Rich Gulch. Also they prospected
in Jackson Creek, where they saw the glittering metal on
all sides. Realizing they had niade a rich discovery, they
at once located the town of Jacksonville, and became
v^ealthy and influential citizens. Nevrs of the gold discovery
at Jacksonville rapidly spread, and miners came in vast num-
bers from all directions; so that within fifteen years after
the Jacksonville event nearly all the placer gold mines of
Oregon were discovered.
First Postoffice West of the Rocky Mountains.
John M. Shively, having been appointed postmaster
for Astoria, Oregon, March 9, 1 84 7, soon afterward opened
the postoffice of Astoria in the accompanying building,
which had been occupied as a residence by Ezra Fisher, a
missionary. This bears the distinction of being the first
postoffice west of the Rocky Mountains.
1 48 HISTORY OF OREGON
Oregon's First Custom House. Gen. John Adair was
the first collector of customs for the Oregon District. He
was appointed October 9, 1848, and occupied an office
OKEOOH'S FIRST
in a rented building in Upper Atoria. His salary was $ 1 ,000
per annum, besides fees and per cent of duties collected.
The building was destroyed by fire, and the Govenunent
erected the edifice above, this being Oregon's first custcm
house.
The Baptist Church in Oregon. The first Baptists came
to the Pacific coast in 1843; and a Baptist church was
organized at West Union, near Hillsboro, May 25, 1844.
The first resident Baptist minister on this coast ^vas Rev.
Vincent Snelling, who came to Oregon in 1 844. The first
missionaries on the Pacific Coast, sent by the American
Baptist Home Missionary Society, were Rev. Hezekiah
Johnson and Rev. Ezra Fisher, who arrived December 1 845.
EPOCH IV 149
The first Baptist meeting house on the Pacific Coast was
built by Rev. Johnson in Oregon City, 1 848. The Oregon
City University was opened by the latter in Oregon City,
1849. The first formal meeting of Baptists in the Pacific
Northwest for educational purposes was held in June, 1 85 1 .
The first Baptist ministerial conference on the Pacific Coast
convened at Pleasant Butte, near Brownsville, 1854. Mc-
Minnville College, which was tendered to the Baptists con-
vened at Soda Springs in 1856, by Rev. S. C. Adams of
the Christian Church and accepted by the Central Baptist
Association of Oregon in 1857, was opened under Baptist
control in 1858. Its enrollment the first winter was 178.
The first Baptist Sunday School missionary on the Pacific
Cosist was W. J. Laughary, appointed in 1872. The first
Baptist Chinese Mission in the Pacific Northwest was organ-
ized by the First Baptist Church of Portland in 1874. The
first Baptist Chinese missionary in this territory. Rev. Gong
T3mg, arrived in 1 875. The organization of the first Baptist
Scandinavian mission in the Northwest was effected by the
First Baptist Church of Portland, in 1875, in which city the
beginning of the Baptist Women's Foreign Mission move-
ment in Oregon took place in the following year. The first
constitutional commitment of the Baptists of Oregon to the
foreign mission work was by the convention and some of
the associations in 1 880. The first formal council to recog-
nize the organization of the Baptist Church in Oregon was
convened at Grants Pass, 1 886. — Baptist Annals of Oregon.
Joab Powell* Many of the Oregon colonists were Bap-
tists. They exhibited genuine missionary spirit, and were
noted for their acts of charity, for the building of churches
and for other enterprising deeds, among which was the
establishment of McMinnville College. From the outset
there were strong preachers among them. But while others
may have been greater, the most noted Baptist preacher in
Oregon was Rev. Joab Powell, who occupies a peculiar place
in pioneer history.
150
HISTORY OF OREGON
Established Providence Church. In 1852, Rev. Powell
came from Missouri to Oregon and located on the Santiam
River, wrhere he established Providence Church, a colony
organization with four hundred members — a following
which was very remarkable in that time on account of its
large membership in so sparsely settled a locality.
Baptized Three Thousand Souls. Furthermore it is
recorded in the "Baptist Annals of Oregon" that during his
ministry Joab Powell baptized "nearly or quite three thou-
sand souls," which is a greater num-
ber than any other person baptized
west of the Rocky Mountains. Rev.
Powell was illiterate from the aca-
demic standpoint; but he was so
thoroughly versed in the Bible that
he did not require it for reference in
the pulpit, although his sermons
abounded in biblical quotations. He
could scarcely read or write, yet he
knew the hymn book from cover to
cover. While he had no school
training, he was thoroughly versed
in the things that pioneers know best,
id he communed with nature as with
friend. He was so original, so eccentric,' so ready in good
humored repartee, so equal to every occasion, and so power-
ful in the pulpit that people came from every direction to
hear him preach — many out of mere curiosity;' many to hear
the peculiar but stirring message which he brought. For vremt
of churches large enough to accommodate his audiences.
BEV. JOAB POWELL
He understood men,
'The Oregon Senate was pursuing a policy which Rev. Joab
Powell could not approve; so one raomlng when the President in-
vited him to serve as Chaplain, the senators arose when Mr. Powell
offered this striking prayer: "0 Lord, forgive them for they know
not what they do. Amen," which is said to be the shortest prayer
ever offered by a chaplain before the Oregon Senate.
EPOCH IV 151
court hoilses, public schools and theatres were commonly
placed at the command of this peculiar preacher^ — the Bap-
tist forerunner in Oregon — who lived on plain diet and went
about clad in homespun.
First Mining Code of Oregon. Upon learning that gold
had been discovered in the Rogue River Valley, a crew of
sailors at Crescent City, deserted their ship, and with pick
and shovel ascended the Illinois River to Waldo, Josephine
County, where they found gold in paying quantities. Soon
other miners came, and the place was called **SaiIor Dig-
gin's.** Already the belief prevailed that goldmining would
be carried on extensively in Oregon. Hence there arose the
demand for a common understanding regarding the rights
of miners. Therefore, at a meeting held in **Sailor Diggin*s,**
April 1852, the following mining rules and regulations were
adopted :
1. That fifty cubic yards shall constitute a claim on
the bed of the creek extending to high water on each side.
2. That forty feet shall constitute a bank or bar claim
on the face extending back to the hill or mountain.
3. That all claims not worked when workable, after
five days, to be forfeited or **jumpable."
4. That all disputes arising from mining claims shall
be settled by arbitration, and the decision shall be final.
Such was the mining code of **Sailor Diggin's" which
was the center of the first mining district of Oregon.
United Brethren Missionary Train. Church Coloniza-
tion Authorized. Among the church colonies that came to
Oregon was the United Brethren Missionary Colony. In
1852, Rev. Thomas Jefferson Connor, of Hartsville, Indiana,
was delegated by the United Brethren Conference then in
iRov. Joab Powell was noted for humorous stories and western
sayings that were clad in homely phraseology familiar to frontiers-
men. It may be said in his behalf, however, that to every border
story or saying attributed to Rev. Powell, ten can be found to the
credit of Abraham Lincoln; and Abraham Lincoln was one of the
greatest men of his age.
1 5 2 HISTORY OF OREGON
■ession at Canal, Ohio, to organize and conduct a nussionary
colony to Oregon. Five hundred dollars had been contrib-
uted by the church for the project. The amount was incredi-
bly small for so great an undertaking. Yet it vras one-fifth
as much as Congress had
appropriated for the Levr-
is and Clark expedition to
Oregon less than a half
century before. The party
of ninety-eight persons
from various quarters
gathered at Council Bluffs ;
and (May 7) began the
journey to Oregon, with
Rev. T. J, Connor as their
leader.
They arrived in the
Willamette Valley in the
following September. The
most of them settled in
BentonCounty, where they
KEV. THOMAS JEFFEESQN COmrOB ii.i i i i i
established churches, and
rigidly observed many of the rules of religious life estab-
lished by the Puritans. Regular attendance at church and
the strict observance of Sunday as the Sabbath were among
their requirements. Furthermore, dancing ^vas frowned
upon while simplicity of dress and plainness of manner were
regularly taught from the pulpit. They believed in the kin-
ship of cleanliness and godliness so thoroughly that Monday
was set apart for putting their homes in order. Hence there
were no schools in session on that day, but instead, Saturday
was observed as a school day. Christian education of the
young was an important canon of their faith. Therefore they
were diligent in organizing church schools; they erected fine
homes, and they prospered in the land of their pilgrimage.
EPOCH IV 153
Many of the leading citizens of Oregon are descendants
of that missionary band.
Beach Mining. Beach mining was probably introduced
in Oregon as early as 1852. In 1853 a thousand miners
were engaged in washing gold from the sand along the south-
em beach of the Oregon Coast. It wais gold that had once
been carried by streeun and freshet from the mountain to
the sea, then washed with the sand from the sea to the shore,
and shifted back and forth by the waves until it became so
fine that much of it could be seen only by means of the
microscope. Yet with the aid of quicksilver, shovel, and
golddust pan the miner obtained it in paying quantities.
OregonDivided Into Territories. The Territory of
Oregon in T9t+"was larger than the German Empire wa« in
«S?ySSa?**l 9 1 4. Hence it was only natural that it should
eventually be divided into other territories. But few were
they who realized that this would come to pass and that
the new territories would be so large that they in time would
become states to be subdivided into other states. Yet with-
in nineteen years after Oregon was proclaimed a territory,
this succession of changes began.
Washington. In response to a petition from a portion
of the Oregon Coimtry lying north of the Columbia River,
Washington was organized as a Territory, March 2, 1853,
and admitted into the Union as the forty-second State,
November 11, 1 889. Its capital is Olympia. Washington
is bounded on the north by British Columbia, east by IdaJio,
south by Oregon, and west by the Pacific Ocean. It has a
total area of 69, 1 2 7 square miles, and (1917) a population
of 1,565,810.
Idaho was organized as a Territory, March 3, 1863,
and admitted into the Union as the forty- third State, July 3,
1890. It is composed of part of the following states: Ore-
gon, Wsishington, Utah, and Nevada. It is bounded on
the north by British America and Montana, east by Montana
154 epcx:h IV
and Wyoming, south by Utah and Nevada, and west by
Oregon and Washington. Idaho has a total area of 84, 3 1 3
square miles and (1917) a population of 436,881.
Montana. The northeast comer of the Oregon Coun-
try which was secured to the United States by Great Britain
in 1846, became the northwest part of Montana, May 26,
1 864, when Montana became a Territory which on Novem-
ber 8, 1 889, became the forty first State in the Union. Mon-
tana has a total ahrea of 146,572 square miles and (1917)
a population of 466,214.
Wyoming, The Oregon Country contained a region
which is now a portion of Wyoming. Wyoming was organ-
ized as a Territory, July 25, 1868, and was admitted into
the Union as the forty-fourth State, July 1 0, 1 890. It con-
tains a total area of 97,914 square miles, and (1917) hsis a
population of 182,264.
EPOCH IV 155
GOVERNORS CURRY. DAVIS. AND CURRY
(May 19. 1853— March 3. 1859)
CHAPTER IX.
"Those pioneers
Who set their plowshares to the sun
Were kings of heroes every one." — Joaquin Miller.
Governor George L. Curry was bom in Philadelphia,
July2, 1820. In 1 64 3, he started west, and, after an experi-
the ne^vspaper bi
ence of three years ir
crossed the plains to
Oregon, arriving there
on August 30, 1846.
For a time he was
editor of the Oregon
"Spectator," and in
May, 1853, was ap-
pointed Secretary of
OregonTerritory, be-
coming Gov e r n o r
(upon the resignation
of General Lane) and
serving in that qovesnoe and mbs. oeobqe l. cubsv
capacity until the following December.
GoTMTior Davis. John W. Davis was appointed gov-
ernor by President Pierce and arrived in Oregon on Decem-
ber 2, 1853, but resigned August 1 of the following year.
Governor Davis had been a member of Congress from
Indiana for four terms and had served one term as Speaker
of the National House of Representatives. He was also at
one time United States minister to China. He was not ac-
quainted with western spirit or customs; hence resigned his
office. His career as Governor was uneventful and after his
bri*f service he returned to Indiana, where he died in 1859.
1 5 6 HISTORY OF OREGON
Curry's Second T«rm as Governor. Upon the resigna-
tion of Governor Davis, George L. Curry on August 1 , 1 854,
again became Governor of Oregon. He continued to fill
that office until the inauguration of John Whiteaker, the first
Governor under the state constitution. Oregon had a terri-
torial government ten years, and Governor Curry was its
chief executive for half of that time. He was a cultured man
of the people, and left a splendid record. Governor Curry
died at his home in Portland on July 28, 1878.
The United Presbyterian Church Originated in Oregon.^
Notwithstanding the sparsely settled condition of the coun-
try, there were four branches of the Presbyterian church in
Oregon in 1851. They were the First Presb3rterians, Cum-
berland Presbyterians, Associate Presbyterians, and Asso-
ciate Reformed Presbyterians. To meet the situation the
last two of these organizations came to believe that it would
be the part of wisdom for them to consolidate. These two
churches were seceders from the old Church of Scotland,
one withdrawing as early as 1688, and the other in 1733;
and, therefore, were among the oldest of the Dissenting
Churches. Their secession was principally on account of
departure from evangelical doctrine and laxness of discipline
on the part of the mother church.
Meetings Were Held to Discuss Consolidation, the re-
sult being the passage of the following resolution at a con-
vention made up of delegates from both of the local organ-
izations: **Resolved, that there is not that difference be-
tween the public standards of the two churches which war-
rants the maintenance of a separate communion and ecclesi-
astical organization, therefore, we do agree and resolve
henceforth to unite in one body, to be known as **The United
Presbyterian Church of Oregon." The leaders in this move-
ment were: Rev. James P. Millar, D.D. ; Rev. Thomas S.
iGleaned from a paper read by Hon. C. H. Stewart at the cele-
bration of the 50th anniversary of the organization of the Willamette
Congregation at Oaltville, Oregon,
EPOCH IV
157
Kendall, D.D., and Rev. Samuel G. Irvine. D.D., of the
Amociate branch; and Rev. Wilson Blain, Rev. S. D. Gag-
er, Rev. Jeremiah Dick, and Rev. James Worth, of the Auo-
ciate Refoimed branch.
TWO OF THE OaiaiNATOBS OF THE milTBD FBE3BTTEBIAN OHUBCH
BBV. THOMAS S. KEVDAI^L, D. D.
OEV. WILSOH BLJUM
The Organizations Mtfge Into One. Accordingly a
of the presbyteries representing these branches was
held at the residence of Rev. Wilson Blain, at Union Point,
three miles from Brownsville, in Linn County, Oregon, Oc-
tober 20, 1852, at which time both organizations formally
merged into one under the name mentioned. The basis
adopted was: "The Word of God is the only rule of faith
and practice, and the supreme authority for the regulation
of doctrine, worship and government — the Westminister
Confession of Faith, and the Catechisms, larger and shorter
— all matters of previous separation to be held as matters
of private opinion and Christian forbearance."
1 58 HISTORY OF OREGON
First Psalm^Singing Congregation in West Half of
AfHerica, Of the congregations forming the union in 1852,
but one has had continuous existence to the present time.
This is * 'Willamette Congregation,** located at Oakville, six
miles to the south-east of Corvallis. This congregation wsis
organied in July, 1850 — the first congregation of Psalm-
singing people in the western half of the United States.
First U. P. Church in North America. Under the
auspices of the new denomination a congregation was or-
ganized in Albany, Oregon, October 10, 185 3, which is still
in existence, and it bears the distinction of being the first
congregation organized in North America under the name of
**United Presbyterian.**
The mother churches in the East had been anxiously
watching this movement, and at the first meeting of the
synods to which the congregations belongedv their action
in concluding the union was approved. In fact the two
small organizations in the West had, through force of cir-
cumstances, accomplished something that the mother
churches had very much desired for many years; and no
doubt aided in bringing about the union between them six
years later at Pittsburg, Pennsylvania. The new church in
the East was known as **The United Presbyterian Church
of North America," and it set forth a declaration of princi-
ples strikingly similar to those previously adopted by the
church in Oregon. Steps were taken immediately to bring
into the organization the little band in Oregon that had
blazed the way to union and at a meeting of the Oregon
Church, held at Kendalls* Bridge, Linn County, on May 5,
1 859, they became a part of the United Presbyterian Church
of North America.
Results of the Consolidation. The formation of the
United Presbyterian Church in Oregon is an instance where
the members of two church families, holding practically the
same doctrine, and being almost altogether cut off by dis-
EPOCH IV J 5^
tance from fellowship with the mother denominations, were
led to adapt themselves to prevailing conditions, and the
local union thus effected, proved to be so happy in its results
that the parent bodies in the E^t, after witnessing the course
of their children for several years, emulated their exainple
and brought about a general family reunion. And now one
may travel from the mother United Presbyterian Church at
Albany, through almost every State in the Union, then to
South America, Europe and Asia, and then ascend the Nile
to the United Presbyterian University in North Africa, and
yet worship every Sunday in a sanctuary of the Church that
originated in Linn County. Oregon.
Pacific University. Following the advice of Rev.
George H. Atkinson, who had been sent to Oregon as a
special missionary superintendent 'with instruction to found
an academy, the Congregation alists and Presbyterians in
conference at Oregon City in 1 846, decided to establish an
academy at Forest Grove ;
and Mrs. Tabitha Brown's
Orphan School, opened
the year before, formed
the nucleus of the institu-
. tion. In 1 849, the school
was formally incorporated
under the special act of the
Oregon Territorial Legis-
lature as Tualatin Acad-
emy. Rev. Atkinson and
his co-workers erected a
college hall in 1851. Two
years later Rev. Sidney H.
Marsh, the first president
of the proposed college, sidney h. ^.aksh
came through the wilder- rirat PuBldBnt Pacific Unlvsrslty.
ness from New England and took up his residence in the
160
HISTORY OF OREGON
new hall. In 1854, the legislature chartered the college
under the name of Pacific University. The University hdd
its first commencement in 1 863, graduating hut one studmt.
This was Harvey W. Scott, who came to be one of the fore-
most newspaper editors of the nation.
MABSH HALL, PACIFIC UHIVESSITY
Japan Patronizes Pacific University. In 1872, the
progressive movement in Japan resulted in sending many
of the sons of prominent families to schools in America and
Europe. Pacific University was selected for three of them.
Fill of whom graduated in 1876. They were Yei Nosea and
Hatstara Tamura, both of whom became prominent educa-
tors and writers; also Kin Saito who ia chief justice of the
Court of Hokaido, Japan.
Christian CoUege. In 1854. Rev. John E. Murpl^.
Elijah Davidson, J. B. Smith, T. H. Lucas and S. Whitman
donated a mile square of land in Polk County on which to
fouiid a town, the proceeds from the sale of town lots to
be used in establishing a .college under the supervision of
the local Christian Church and to be called Monmoudi
University. At a mass meeting the town was named Mon-
mouth. Money was donated, a small building erected, and
the school was placed in charge of the Christian Church of
EPOCH IV
161
Oregon. An endowment of $20,000 was immediately
raised from the sale of forty scholarships at $500 each;
thus what had been a cow pasture and a wheat field came
to be the site of a college community. In 1856, a wooden
building was erected at the cost of $5,000 on the present
State Normal School grounds;
and the name of the school
was changed from Monmouth
University to Christian Col'
lege. On account of the in-
adequacy of the building,
Preudent T. F. Campbell se-
cured donations and erected
a brick building, at the cost
of $16,000. which forms the
north wing of the State Nor-
mal School Building. In 1682,
under the presidency of D. T.
■ Stanley, the name of Christian
College v^as changed to Ore-
gon State Normal School. The
buildings and grounds were
given to the State for a Nor-
mal School free of debt and the
Legislature of 1 89 1 .
Capital Located at Corvallis. All of the following
cities have appeared in school geographies as the capitals
of Oregon: Oregon City, Salem, Corvallis, and Eugene.
We have already learned that the capital was located at
Oregon City and then at Salem; and now we are about to
see how it happened that Corvallis and Eugene, each in its
turn, came nearly being chosen as the permanent capital.
January 13, 1855, a bill was passed by the legislature re-
moving the seat of territorial government from Salem to
gift ^
i accepted by the
162
HISTORY OF OREGON
Corvallia,' and the university from CorvaUis to Jacksonville.
Since work had already been commenced on the public
buildings at Salem, opposition to the change was very strong.
Governor Curry at once re-
ferred the matter to the Sec-
retary of the Treasury, who
deemed the change inopera-
tive unti[ acted upon by Con-
gress. Thereupon Governor
Curry and Secretary Harding
removed their offices to Sa-
lem, and for the second time
Oregon had two capitals. On
the third of December both
houses convened at CorvaUis,
and the first bill, introduced
on the sixth, was to relocate
the seat of government at
Salem, and the bill became a
law on the 15th. The capital
was immediately removed to Salem, where the Legislature
was opened on the 1 8th.
Eugene and CorvaUis Lead for the Capital. The leg-
islature in Salem, December 18. 1855, By a strange coinci-
dence the new State House in which the Legislature met,
was destroyed by fire on the night of December 29th. Upon
the sudden loss of the State House with the library and
archives of the territory the legislature decided to submit
the question of locating the capital to popular vote at the
next general election; and it was provided that in case no
town had a clear majority of all the votes cast a special elec-
iln April Mr. Asahel Bush moved the "Oregon Statesman" from
Salem to Corvallis, as he had previously done from Oregon City to
the editor replied that the "Statesman" was publiahed at the seat
of Government wherever that might chance to be. — Wells.
Salem. Much newspaper comment was made upon the matter, but
EPOCH IV
163
tion ahould be held the first Monday in October to decide
between the two receiving the greatest number. At the
general election in June ( 1856) Eugene City received 2627
votes; Corvallis. 2.327; Salem, 210
their had a majority, but "Eugene
highest tvro and the final di
popular election in October." Hi
to make election returns according to law, hence the official
result as announced by Secretary Harding gave Eugene City
Portland, 1154. Nei
kd Corvallis were the
IS to be made at the
four counties failed
COBVAIJ.ia OOLIJIGE (IGTe)
(Tli« Flrit College Oadeta In tlie Fadflc NortbveBt ware otginlied hj OaptBlu
B. D. BonreU, D. S. A., In CottsIIIb, 1ST2. See pxES 1S4.)
2319. Salem 2049, CorvallU 1998, and Portland 1154.
"Hence the vote was to be taken on Eugene City and Salem.
Hie citizens of Corvallis \vere greatly incensed and the
public much disgusted. So when the first Monday in Oc-
164
HISTORY OF OREGON
tober came few people took the trouble to vote. Lesa
than a hundred votes were caot in Portland, wiiile in many
places no polls were opened. Five counties made no re-
turns to the Secretary. Eugene City having received the
largest majority of the votes became the seat of justice; but
the election was ignored, and both the Legislature and the
Supreme Court assembled at Salem in December."'
Corvallis College Founded. Corvallis College took its
name from Corvallis, the town in which it vras located. In
1856, the edifice housing the institution was erected by a
private corporation; and although called a college, it was
opened as an academy. In
1856, Corvallis College
was chartered as a non-
sectarian school. Later
the property belonging to
the institution was trans*
ferred to the Pacific Con-
ference of the M. E.
Church South. In 1865,
Rev. William Finley was
chosen president and the
school offered an ad-
vanced course of instruc-
tion leading to the degree
of bachelor of arts. In
1668, the college was in-
corporated by the M. El.
PBE8IDENT B. L, ARNOU) ^hurch South. Also, dur-
ing that year it was designated by the legislature of Oregon
as the Oregon Agricultural College. Upon the resignation
of President Finley. Dr. B. L. Arnold was chosen president,
and the chair of agriculture was established in Corvallia Col-
lege with Professor B. J. Hawthorne as director; whereupon
iWells,
EPOCH IV 165
scientific agriculture on the Pacific Coast was taught for the
first time. In 1885, the State of Oregon assumed control
of the school; and three years later the agricultural depart-
ment of the school was transferred to the present site. At
the end of one year Corvallis College — the original institu-
tion — closed its doors; and in 1899 the building was razed.
^diAiif^ll
^^^^"iRWf
mj^^^
IJH
wBgj^
MB
19
70BTLAHI), OBEOOK, IS 1853
LaCreole Academic Institute. In 1636, three men do-
nated I 1 2 acres of land adjacent to the present stie of Dallas
for the establishment of a school. February 15th of that
year the board of trustees uras organized, with Reuben P.
Boise as president and Florace Lyman as secretary. The
following year the school was opened as LaCreole Aca-
demic Institute, mth an attendance of 5 7 students. The
school 'was corr\monly called LaCreole Academy. It stead-
ily increased in popularity; and in 1900 was united with
LaFayette Seminary under the corporate name, LaCreole
Academy and Dallas College,
1 66 HISTORY OF OREGON
Oregon Decided to Hold Constitutional Convention.
Tlie most important event occurring during the administra-
tion of Governor Curry was the convention which fonnulat-
ed the state convention. The question of authorizing a
constitutional convention had been submitted to the people
by the Legislature in 1856, and was carried by a vote of
7209 in favor and 1616 against. Tlie Indian wars of 1855
and 1836 had resulted in many claims against the United
States Government, and it was thought better opportunity
for their favorable consideration would exist if Oregon were
represented by men who could vote in Congress.
The Constitutional Convention. The constitutional
convention met in Salem on August 17, 1 85 7, and con-
sisted of 60 members. Among them were 34 farmers
and 18 lawyers. All three justices of the Territorial Su-
preme Court were members — Judge Matthew P. Deady,
Judge George H. Williams, and Judge Cyrus Olney. Judge
Deady was elected president of the convention, and Chester
N. Terry secretary. On September 18, sixty days after it
began its labors, the convention adjourned, having adopted
the proposed constitution by a vote of 35 in favor and 10
against, 1 5 being absent. At a specieJ election held on the
second of the following November ,the document was adopt-
ed by the people by a vote of 7195 to 3215 against, and
on February 14, 1859, Oregon was admitted into the Union
as the thirty-third State
Negro Slavery Subnaitted to the People. Two questions
were submitted separately to the people, one as to whether
the new state should adopt slavery, and the other declaring
that free negroes should not be permitted to reside here.
The vote for slavery was 2645, against 7727. Against free
negroes as residents, 8640; and for, 1081. TTie new con-
stitution thus declared against free negroes living in Oregon,
but its enactment was never enforced.
BeOel College. Bethel College, near McCoy. Oregon,
8 built by the religious denomination known as The Chris-
M (1857). The school prospered for a number of years.
BETHEL COLLEGE,
But as Bethel College and Christian College were dependent
upon the same sources of support, the doors of Bethel Col-
lege were later closed and the working force of the institu-
tion was moved to Christian College, located at Monmouth.
First Woolen Mill West of Ae Rocky Mountains. Ore-
gon women first manufactured wool into yam by hand -
tabor; and by hand the yarn was knit into stockings. Hand
looms were soon introduced into homes where material for
clothing was woven, and homespun garments were common.
However, housewives* duties were somewhat diminished in
1 854, when a wool carding mill was introduced in Albany.
The next year machinery was erected on LaCreole, for
carding, spinning and weaving of flannel; and in 1857 Wil-
liam H. Rector, as superintendent, built at Salem the first
woolen mill west of the Rocky Mountains. The next woolen
1 68 HISTORY OF OREGON
mills erected were: one at Oregon City in 1864, another at
Ellendale (Polk County) 1866, and the third at Brownsville
in 1875. It required several years to establish a reputation
for Oregon Woolen Mills. Accordingly it was very difficult
at first to market in our state the goods that were manufac-
tured by our mills. It was frequently necessary, therefore,
at first to ship the Oregon made fabric into other states
where it was purchased unwittingly by our merchants who
brought it back to be sold to their customers But a wonder-
ful change took place. Oregon woolen mills were very
fortunate in competing for medals in national and inter-
national expositions. In course of time, foreign and domes-
tic recognition was won for our woolen manufacture, result-
ing in the erection of several other woolen mills.
McMinnville College. Pioneer Baptist missionaries es-
tablished Oregon City College in 1849; but for want of
ample support the school was closed and the property sold.
The money thus acquired was paid into the funds of Mc-
Minnville College, which in the meantime, had come into
existence in the manner related by Bancroft, the historian,
as follows: **The Legislature in 1857-8, granted a charter
to the Baptist College at McMinnville, a school already
founded by the Disciples, or Christian Church, and turned
over to the Baptists with the belongings, six acres of ground
and a school building as a free gift upon condition that they
should keep up a collegiate school.**
Federal Court Established. By an act of Congress of
March 3, 1859, the State of Oregon was constituted a judi-
cial district, within which a district court should be estab-
lished with powers and jurisdiction like the District Court
of the United States for the District of Iowa, and the judge
of said district court was authorized to hold regular annual
sessions at the seat of the government of the State, to com-
mence on the second Mondays of April and September re-
EPOCH IV 1 69
spectively, in each year. Judge Matthew P. Deady was ap-
pointed District Judge by President James Buchanan. He
opened the first term of the district court at Salem, Oregon,
on the 1 2th day of September 1859. Judge Deady was
dissatisfied with Salem as the place of holding the Federal
court, and succeeded, in September, I860, in having it
changed to Portland.
Epoch V
appeared
states. But
1859
OREGON UNDER
STATE GOVERNMENT
state Motto: "The Union"
CHAPTER X.
On St. Valentine's day
of the year 1859, Oregon
s the thirty'third star in the constellation of
vill be seen, Congress was slow in form-
ing a decision to admit Oregon to statehood. This catised
considerable delay, during which certain historic events took
place, which should be mentioned in this connection.
In the belief that Congress would promptly pass the
enabling act, making Oregon a State, the Oregon voters
elected a complete State ticket in June, 1838. As required
by the constitution, a special term of the newly elected State
Legislature convened in Salem, July 5th, for the purpose of
electing two United States Senators; and on the eighth of
July the oath of office was administered to Governor White*
aker by Judge R. P. Boise, and the machinery of the new
Govemrr\ent was put in operation. The Legislature elected
Jos^h Lane and Delazon Smith to represent Oregon in the
United States Senate, and adjourned after a session of four
days. Soon afterwards, as "The History of the Willamette
Valley" relates, "Word was received that Congress had
adjourned vnthout the House passing the enabling act which
had been approved by the Senate early in May, and that
Oregon must remain a Territory until the next session. For
some time the question as to the course that should be pur-
sued was warmly discussed. There were two full sets ot
officers and two forms of government. Gradually it be-
came the general opinion that the State officers should per-
1 72 HISTORY OF OREGON
mit the Territorial Government to proceed unembarraasecl.
Under the constitution the State Legislature diould have
met in September; but at the appointed time only nine
representatives and two senators made their appearance in
Salem« and these adjourned after two useless meetings. On
the sixth of December the Territorial Legislature again
assembled and held its regular session. Soon after the legis-
lature adjourned, news was received that Oregon had been
admitted into the Union. Senator Smith and Representa-
tive Grover had gone to Washington, and M^en Congress
assembled had joined with Delegate Joseph Lane in
urging the passage of an enabling act for Oregon. It early
passed the Senate, but met with bitter opposition in the
House, being supported by the Democrats and opposed by
the Republicans. Finally, on the twelfth of February, 1859,
the Oregon Enabling Act was passed.** Two days later it
received the signature of President Buchanan; and the
thirty-third star was placed in the American flag.
GOVERNOR JOHN WHITEAKER
March 3, 1859— September 10. 1862
To John Whiteaker belongs the honor of having been
the first Governor of the State of Oregon. He waa bom
in Dearborn County, Indiana,
on May 4^ 1820. He went
to California in 1 S49 and after
tvfo years returned to Mis-
souri. With his family, he
crossed the plains to Oregon
in 1852, locating in Lane
county. He served as judge
of Lane County, was a mem-
ber of the Territorial Legis-
lature, served three terms in
the Oregon house of repre-
sentatives and one term as
State senator. He was speak-
er of the house in the session
of 1868, and was president of
the senate in 1876, and again
■ lOTO u ■ .L 1 y^ OOVBBNOK JOHN WHITEAKEB
m 1 8/0. He is the only Gov-
ernor of Oregon who served in the legislature after having
been the chief executive.
Supposing the new constitution which had been adopt-
ed by the people of Oregon had been accepted by Congress,
and the state admitted into the Union, an election for state
officers was held in 1858, resulting in the choice of Mr.
Whiteaker for Governor. As before stated, Oregon was
not admitted, however, until February 14, 1859; and as
soon as news of the fact reached Oregon Mr. Whiteaker
assumed the duties of his new position. It waa during his
term of office as Governor that Fort Sumter waa fired upon
and the great Civil War begun. He guided the affaira of
state with moderation during those trying times and all
174
HISTORY OF OREGON
domestic difficulties were successfuUy avoided. Hia term
expired September 10, 1662, and he retired to his (arm
in Lane County. He afterward served a term in the lower
house of Congress (1878) and for a few years was Collector
of Internal Revenue in Portland. He died at his home in
Eugene in 1902.
Or^on State Seal. When Oregon became a State, the
territorial seal was abolished and the one provided by the
State Constitutional Convention came into use. The center-
piece of the state seal is an escutcheon supported by thirty-
three stars to indicate that Oregon
was the thirty-third state admitted
into the Union. The State motto,
"The Union," divides the escutcheon
into an upper and a lower section.
On the upper section are mountains,
an elk with branching antlers, a
'wagon, the Pacific Ocean on 'which
a British man-of-war is departing
while an American ship is arri'ving.
OBEOON STATE SEAi,i On the lower section are a sheaf, a
plow, and a pickax. Upon the crest of the escutcheon is
an American eagle. Bordering these is the legend — "State
of Oregon, 1859."
Oregon and "The Pacific Republic" Upon the approach
of the Civil War there was announced a deep laid scheme
affecting Oregon which was as treasonable as the one con-
ceived by Aaron Burr on Blennerhassett's Isle. The scheme
which probably originated in California was based upon the
theory that as the result of the Civil War the nation would
be divided into the Northern States and the Southern States.
iThe original design for the State Seal of Oregon was dravn
with a Bteel pen In the hand of L, F. Grover, one of the Committee-
men on Seal chosen by the State Constitutional Convention. The
State Seal in common use Is not an exact copy of the o
by the Committee.
EPOCH V
175
The promoters were to take advantage of the disruption b»-
tween the North and the South and organize a separate re-
public on the Pacific Coast, This meant that the United
States of America was to be divided into three republics.
"Pacific Republic," according to H, H. Bancroft, was to
be an aristocracy somewhat similar to the ancient republic
of Venice which, while providing for an elective executive,
vested ail its power in hereditary nobles, repudiating uni-
versal suffrage. Labor was to be perfonr\ed by a class of
people from any of the dark races— coolies, South Sea
Islanders, mulattoes and negroes — invited to California and
subsequently reduced to slavery. Had Oregon been suffi-
ciently in sjTnpathy with a movement of the character, ^e
'was not in position at this time to enter into the conspiracy
because of the war claims she held against the federal gov-
ernment which would have been invalidated. Throughout
the west also was the fear
of an internecine war
which might make this
country an easy prey for
a foreign nation. For these
and other reasons the ad-
vocates of "Pacific Re-
public" avroke from their
delusive dream, while the
nation steadily frowned
on the bold and unscrupu-
lous scheme."
Compromise on U. S.
Senator. A famous anr'
exciting sesMon of the leg-
islature was held in 1860
during Governor White-
aker's administration. Two
United States senators we
horizon was already clouded by threats of the approaching
The political
176
HISTORY OF OREGON
conflict and the question of the sympathies of the nevr sena-
tors was one of dominant importance. No party having a
majority in the legislature, a combination of all who were
opposed to the proposed movement of the Southern staten
was effected, and James W. Nesmith. a Union Democrat,
and E. D. Baker, a Republican, were elected. This was
regarded as a happy solution of an alarming condition.
Furthermore both of the Oregon Senators were so perfectly
in accord with the National Administration that President
Lincoln repeatedly sought their counsel, which was a matter
of much significance to Oregon and the Nation at a time
when the Union was threatened with disruption.
Oregon Senator KUled at Ball's Bluff. Senator E. D.
Baker, of Oregon, was killed in the battle of Ball's Bluff
(October 21, 1861). His
death together with the dis-
aster that befell the federal
troops in that engagement
proved hardly less dishearten-
ing to the North than did the
defeat at Bull Run. At the
outbreak of the Civil War,
Senator Baker declined the
office of brigadier general, but
accepted a colonelcy — retain-
ing his office as U. S. Senator.
Attired in the full uniform of
a colonel, he dramatically
appeared on the floor of the
Senate and with sword at his
side, made a plea for the
Union, and then returned to
his regiment. On the evening of the 20th of October, he
had a premonition that he would be killed on the following
day. He donned a aable suit, rendered "Annie Laurie" on
the piano, and discoursed in plaintive mood with some
U. S. SENATOB E. D. BAKEB
EPOCH V 177
friends. The next day the disastrous battle of Ball's Bluff
was fought. **Colonel Baker walked up and down before
his men to encourage them, was suddenly assailed by a
single warrior, who came out in front of his comrades and
killed him with a revolver at five paces' distance;** and with
the Oregon Senator fell half of the Federals engaged in the
battle of Ball's Bluff.
Gold Discovered in Eastern Oregon. The Blue Bucket
Mine, The discovery of gold at Jacksonville in 1851, to-
gether "with later discoveries, gave rise to many fabulous
stories that grew into the gold miner's mythology. Among
these exciting myths was the story of the Blue Bucket Mine,
which remains a mystery to this day, although many expla-
nations have been offered as to its origin. One of these
explanations was that some children belonging to an emi-
grant train, which was encamped on the Malheur River,
found shining pebbles in a brook where they were wading.
The pebbles were thrown into a blue bucket and brought
to camp, where they were hammered flat on a wagon tire,
and declared to be nuggets of gold. Whereupon the mine
was called *The Blue Bucket Mine,** from the blue bucket
that was filled "with gold. This was only one of the
numerous stories told regarding the origin of the name **Blue
Bufket Mine;" and it is probable that no one will ever
know the true origin of the name nor the location of the
mystic mine. But the story proved valuable in that it
spread until, with other stories, it stimulated gold hunting
in Eastern Oregon with the result that rich gold mines were
discovered in various sections of that country.
Search for the Blue Bucket Mine. It is known, however,
that early in 1 86 1 , David Littlefield, Henry Griffin, William
Stafford and C. W. Scriber, left Portland in search of the
Blue Bucket Mine. They were guided by a man named
Adams, who had led them to believe he knew the location
of the mine. Their route was by way of The Dalles, the
1 78 HISTORY OF OREGON
Deschutes, and the desert to the ridge between Burnt River
and the Malheur. They were compelled to abandon their
guide on the way, since he had evidently lost his bearings.
The party of four, descending Elk Creek, came to a ravine,
where Griffin sunk a prospect hole and struck gold in pa3ring
quantities. The place was called Griffin Gulch, from the
discoverer of the mine, commonly accepted to be the
first gold mine discovered in Elastem Oregon. As a
result of the excitement produced by this discovery, there
was a stampede for Eastern Oregon, and many rich gold
mines were subsequently discovered throughout the Blue
Mountains. But no one since has been able to locate for a
certainty the Blue Bucket Mine, if such a mine ever existed.
Other Gold that Came to Oregon. Because of the gold
excitement of 1861 and 1862, Portland, Oregon, became
almost depopulated by the wild rush for the mines. The
press of Oregon published many sensational reports such
as the following, which convey an impression of the re-
markable discoveries made, the severe privations endured,
and the sensational conditions that prevailed.
**A miner while on his way to Salmon River struck rich
diggings and having no bag for his gathered gold, filled
one of his indiarubber boots with it and at last date was
filling the other.*' — Mountaineer, April 18, 1862.
**A man by the name of Wiser, of Benton County, Oregon,
took out $5,000 in two days in Salmon River diggings.** —
Walla Walla News, Dec. 4, 1861. . **Nine packers
came with $50,000 in hand, the result of their summer's
work in the mines." — Washington Statesman, Dec. 1, 1861.
* 'Scarcely a miner here (Florence) would stay by
his claim if he were not sure that it would pay him $25 a day
in good weather. When rockers could be used, miners fre-
quently made from $300 to $500 per day, and less than $50
was not spoken of. As high as forty ounces a day have
been taken out.** — Walla Walla Statesman, June 14, 1862.
.... **Seven men arrived yesterday at The Dalles from
EPCX:H V 1 79
Walla Walla, part of them with feet frozen. They left Mr.
Brown of Walla Walla on the road between John Day and
the Deschutes, exhausted. They buried him alive in the
snow, but with both feet frozen. Brown had about 30
pounds of gold dust with him.*' . **A party arrived
this evening from Grand Ronde. One of them found Brown
on the road and slept with him all night : left him 1 A. M.
(5th) buried in the snow and alive but unable to use his
feet. There are reports of others frozen on the road.
Frozen men all doing well. Moody will have all of the
toes of his right foot taken off tomorrow.** . **Wood
is selling at $30 per cord and flour at $24 per barrel.** —
Walla Walla Statesman, Jsoiuary, 1862.
Border Lawlessness. Crime Stronger Than Arm of the
Lo/lV, The gold excitement of 1862 attracted all kinds of
men to Eastern Oregon and Washington. The miners were
as a rule industrious, and at heart they were as good as the
gold they dug. But the trails of the miners were infested
with ruffians who sustained themselves by unlawful means.
This class of men grew to be so numerous and desperate
that they were too strong for the arm of the law, and rob-
bery and murder became so common that no man's life or
property was secure. A verdict of a coroner's jury follow-
ing a violent death was generally as far as the law was per-
mitted to proceed. Hence the more substantial citizens,
as early as 1862, began to take steps for self-protection.
In the month of September, in that year, the mining camp
of Auburn was shocked by the announcement that two of
its citizens had been poisoned, and that one of them was
dead. A Frenchman who had been their partner was
arrested for the crime. It was 250 miles to The Dalles,
which was the nearest seat of justice; said, what was worse,
all the prisoners sent thither for trial before that time had
made their escape through the aid of confederates. Senti-
ment ran high; and in order that the Frenchman might not
escape nor be lynched without trial, 200 representative citi-
180
HISTORY OF OREGON
zena of the mining camp chose three judges, who in turn
selected a jury of twelve men, a sheriff, and two attorneys —
one for each side of the case. After three days' trial the
jury returned a verdict of "Murder in the first degree."
Execution was deferred three days more in order that oppor-
tunity might be given to correct errors, if any. At the ex-
piration of the three days the condemned man paid the
death penalty by hanging. Other mining camps and com-
nilar method of dealing with criminals.
Vigilance Committee At this
time in Walla Walla, a Law and
Order League ^vas organized and
there was an organization known as
the U. F. F. Us that paraded the
streets of Walla Walla and did other
curious things, but ^hose purpose
remains a mystery to this day. Also
a Vigilance Committee became act'
ive throughout the country on both
sides of the border line between
Oregon and Washington. Among
the many mute evidences of their
vfcrk is an aged cottonwood tree
and a time ivorn grave within the
-;ty limits of Walla Walla. From r
limb of this tree there was hanged in
1865 a negro known as "Slim Jim"
for the alleged offense of aiding pris-
oners to escape from jail. News that
the rougher element had threatened
the authorities, at Lewiston, while
endeavoring to bring to trial the murderers of a man named
Lloyd Magruder, lent greater activity to the Vigilance Com-
mittee in its operations throughout the Walla Walla and
Eastern Oregon country; so that Death began to stare crime
in the face, and wrong-doing decreased accordingly. Pre-
EPOCH V 181
Quently men of doubtful character were found dead at the
end of a lariat. But it is said that the course of the Com-
mittee was usually attended with more or less deliberation.
The prisoner was generally given an opportunity to speak
in his defence; and if found guilty was allotted a few mo-
ments for prayer before he was hanged. The Vigilance
Committee was severely criticized by many as an illegal
organization; and it was believed that in some instances it
brought about the death of the innocent. But there were
msuiy good people who regarded it as the only mesuis of
establishing protection of life and property in Eastern Ore-
gon and the Walla Walla country before the courts became
strong enough to enforce the laws.
Oregon Floods. **During the first three days of Janu-
ary, 1853, a disastrous flood occurred in the Willamette
Valley. Heavy snow in December was followed by copious
warm rains converting the brooks into torrents and the
rivers into a raging flood. The steamer **Lot Whitcomb"
was wrecked near Milw^aukie. General Palmer's mill at
Dayton was carried down stream, a number of tenements
of Linn City^ started on a voyage to the Columbia, and but
a small portion of the stock along the river survived.** —
History of the Willamette Valley.
The Willamette Valley Flood . The winter of 1861-
1862 was the severest in Oregon history. A protracted
storm was intensified by blizzards and snow lay very
deep. Warm rains followed which simultaneously melted
the snow in the uplands and the lowlands. Torrents from
the mountains met the half-melted snow and ice of the
Willamette Valley, forming a mass of heavy slush which was
unable to push its way through the gorge at Oregon City.
Consequently, the swollen tide of backwater spread over
the valley to such a depth that settlers believed that an
ocean liner could have sailed over some of their farms.
1 Situated just across the Willamette River from Oreg^on City.
1 82 HISTORY OF OREGON
Many actually tasted the water to ascertain whether or not
the sea had broken through its mountain barrier. Homes
were demolished, lives were lost, and the town of Orleans,
which stood on the bank of the Willamette River opposite
Corvallis, was so completely swept away that its name alone
remains in history.
Grand Ronde V alley Flood. The elements enacted a
similar tragedy in Union County during the same year. Fol-
lowing this unprecedented winter, the flood gates of Indian
Valley were closed by debris suid floating ice. They held
back the water until Grsoid Ronde Valley became a
lake with only a winding line of trees above the surface to
indicate the course of the river.
GOVERNOR ADDISON C. GIBBS
September 10, 1862 — September 12, 1866.
TTie distinction of having been the first "War Govern-
or" of Oregon belongs to Addison C. Gibbs, who was elect-
ed in June 1 862. He was born in Cattaraugus County, New ■
York. July 9, 1825. After
graduating at a state normal
school, Mr. Gibbs became a
teacher and was afterwards
admitted to the bar. In 1849
he went to California, but the
next year proceeded to the
mouth of the Umpqun River,
in Oregon, and located the
town of Gardiner. In 1852
he was a member of the Terri-
torial Legislature from Ump-
qua (now Douglas) County,
and wsts appointed collector
of customs of the port of entry
of Gardiner. Mr. Gibbs
moved to Portland in I860,
and became a member of the
house of representatives from Multnomah County. In 1 862
he was elected Governor, serving the state in that capacity
with distinction during the Civil War. Governor Gibbs was
a firm defender of the Union cause and in I 864 did much
to prevent a violent outbreak by sympathizers with the
South in Oregon.
iThe following Incident will illustrate tlie bitterness of war feel-
ing wbicli existed In Oregon at tliat time: In 1863, the "Stars and
Stripes" was not permitted at tlie Fourth of July celebration at
Hendershott's Point, in Union County. As a seijuel to this Incident
It may, however, be stated that some ladies, who determined to
correct the situation, met at the home of Mrs. Harriet Lewis, of
Union, to malce a flag for the following celebration, which was to
take place in that town. Tbe flag was made — Miss Martha Koger
OOVESNOB ADDISON C. QIBBS
1 84 HISTORY OF OREGON
GovertM>r Gibbs Rauea a RegimenL In 1864 Gov-
ernor Gibbs was ordered by the War Department to raise
a regiment of infantry volunteers, a difficult task which he
creditably accomplished. There was ao much opposition
to the requirements of the Governor's proclamation that it
was seriously proposed to resort to conscription, but this
drastic course was finally abandoned.
The Salmon Industry. From time immemorial the coast
tribes of Oregon Indians have subsisted largely on fish —
mostly salmon — which find their way into all our mountain
streams. When Captain Wyeth came to Oregon in the
OBEGON SALMON CANNEBT
early 30's, he conceived the possibility of shipping salmon
to outside markets and he established a plant for salting
them for commercial purposes. This plant was located at
Fort William — Wyeth's trading station on the west shore
of Sauvie's Island, opposite the Scappoose Mountain. Fur-
thermore he recognized the fact that the salmon industry
appropriating a portion of her blue riding skirt, inasmuch as suitable
cloth for the field could not be purchased. The national emblem was
then publicly dedicated; and at the Fourth of July celebration follow-
ing it vras announced that this was the first time the "Stars and
Stripes" floated to the breezes of Eastern Oregon on an occasion of
that kind.
EPOCH V 185
does not require any land space for its inception and sup-
port. The isolated condition of Oregon at that time made
the business unsuccessful, hence it was absuidoned. A few
years later interest in salmon fishing for commercisJ pur-
poses revived, and by 1850, considerable qusuitities
were shipped to the Sandwich Islands and to more distsuit
countries. Salmon were first packed in cans on the Colum-
bia River in 1864 — the amount that year being 4,000 cases
of 48 pounds each. Recently, however, the business of
canning and shipping salmon to all the ports of the world
has grown to tremendous proportions, and thousands of
men are employed in the various branches of the industry.
Since it begsui the Columbia River pack has exceeded a half
million cases in each of ten different years, and there have
been more than 25,000,000 cases packed during the life
of the business, totaling $1 15,000,000.
In recent years the system of freezing the whole fish
has been installed, and it has made possible the shipment
of fresh fish to all parts of the world, the consumers thus
practically using fresh salmon at their meals. The principal
markets for frozen fish have been the Atlantic cities of the
U. S. A. and European capitals. Immense canneries have
been established on the Columbia and other Oregon rivers,
where salmon are prepared for the markets of the world.
Most of the catch is made by the use of drift- and gill-nets,
though msuiy wheels, traps and seines are used with marked
success. Near the mouth of the Columbia River, however,
and outside the bar in deep water, boats of different rig,
and fitted for trolling, drift or purse-net fishing, swarm by
scores and hundreds. The salmon industry has grown to
be one of the greatest in the commercial life of Oregon, the
value of the catch to the fisherman alone in 1917 being
more than $2,000,000.
The Royal Chinook Sahnon. One of the most import-
ant industries in Oregon is the catching, preparation suid
marketing of the Chinook salmon, which is regarded as the
1 86 HISTORY OF OREGON
moat palatable and nutritive species of fish known. FuU-
grown Chinooks reach a weight averaging from 25 to 50
pounds, while occasionally one is caught weighing 75 pounds
or more. The Chinook salmon is probably the highest de-
velopment in the great family of fishes. Its beauty, strength.
^ r
CHINOOK SAXUON
and marvelous intelligence, or instinct, make the salmon a
creature of increasing interest and wonder. The flesh is a
pinkish red in color, rich in oils, and it appeals favorably to
the taste of all people of all climes. This species of salmon
is considered a delicacy in the royal palaces of Europe; and
because of its excellence, it is commonly known as the Royal
Chinook.
Habits of the Chinook Salmon. When three or four
years old, Chinook salmon — which, after their first year
pass their lives in salt water — return to a frerfi-water stream,
usually the one in which they were hatched. They ascend
the rivers to their cold, clear sources, high among the moun-
tains. After fanning out a small depression in the gravel
in shallow water — using her tail for this purpose — the female
salmon deposits a quantity of eggs, and the milter or male
salmon fecundates them. A little above, the salmon fan
out a similar hollow, the disturbed gravel covering the eggs.
After the spawning is over the parent salmon soon die. In
a few weeks the eggs hatch, and the little fry at once become
the prey of most other fishes. An average of less than ten
per cent of the hatch live to reach salt water, where they are
comparatively safe. Under the system of artificial propa-
EPOCH V 187
gadon, however, diey are kept in captivity until about six
months old, vrhen they are turned loose in some stream and
rind th«r way to the ocean with an estimated loss of but ten
per cent of their nimiber.
Characteristics of the Royal Chinook. Long-continued
and careful study of the salmon has established most of
its habits and characteristics beyond question, though where
the salmon travel after reaching the ocean, and how thev
live during their four year's absence, still remains a mooted
question. It is generally agreed that many return at the
spa^vning time to their native streams, though this is ques-
tioned by some naturalists. Tests made by marking the
hatchery fry have proved that many return to their parent
stream. Before artificial hatching 'was established by both
the state and national authorities, the Chinook salmon was
on the rapid road to extinction. But under this method,
millions are turned loose in the streams every year and an
industry has been preserved, which, in commercial value,
is surpassed by but two or three others in the State of Ore-
gon. The possibilities of the business may be better appre-
ciated when it is understood that one female salmon has
been known to yield 5000 eggs at spawning time and that
the average production is about 3,5uO.
Salem Becomes the
Pennanent Capital.
"By the Constitution
of the State of Oregon,
requiring that at the
first regular session of
the legislature after its
adoption a law should
be enacted submitting
the question of the lo-
cation of the seat of state capitol
government to the vote of the people, the assembly of 1 860
passed an act calling for this vote at the election lof
1 88 HISTORY OF OREGON
1862. The constitution declared that there must be a
majority of all the votes cast, and owing to the fact that
sJmost every town in the state received some votes, there
was no majority at this election; but at the election of 1864,
Salem received seventy-nine majority over all the votes cast
upon the location of the capital, and was officially declared
the seat of government.** — Bancroft.
State School Fund. The 300,000 acre land grant given
to Oregon by the general government for school purposes
was selected by Governor Gibbs in 1864, and the sales
resulting therefrom now constitute the state school fund,
which is the principal source of financial support given the
public schools of Oregon.
Buena Vista Pottery. An extensive deposit of fine
potter's clay having been discovered near Buena Vista,
Polk County, Freeman Smith opened a pottery there in
1866. The products of the pottery successfully competed
with imported wares in the northwestern market, and the
manufactory prospered. In 1892, the plant was moved
to Portland, after the Buena Vista pottery rendered a service
to the public in establishing the fact that Oregon contains
vast deposits of clay valuable for manufacturing purposes.
Albany College. In response to an urgent demand for
instruction in the higher branches of study, Albany Collegi-
ate Institute was opened at Albany. Oregon, in the spring
of 1 866, during which year the school was chartered as a
Presbyterian educational institution. For want of a "school
edifice, the first session was held in the home of Mr. Thomas
Monteith, a building which is occupied to this day as a resi-
dence. The following year Albany Collegiate Institute
moved into a two-story frame building, which had been
provided by the citizens of Albany. Five years later, Tre-
mont Hall was built. In 1 873, a class of five women gradu-
ated. In 1892, the name of the institution was changed to
Albany College, and in 1915 the college was standardized.
EPOCH V 1 89
Albany College received the income from an endow-
ment of $260,000, the most of which was promised in 1911
and obtained five years later. The College has a compre-
hensive and serviceable library of 7,500 volumes. In the
suburbs of Albany, the College authorities have purchased
a campus of forty acres, which has been named Monteith
Campus, honoring both its President, William Monteith,
and the donor of the original Campus, Thomas Monteith.
Albany College is Presbyterian in its sectarismism and
its policy is to be definitely Christian in Letters and Arts.
Its affairs are administered by a board of twenty-five trus-
tees, elected by the Presbyterian synod of Oregon.
Governor Gibbs Retires. On September 1 , 1 866, Gov-
ernor Gibbs retired from the Governorship and became a
candidate for the United States senatorship, to succeed
James W. Nesmith, the legislature then being in session.
Receiving the caucus nomination of his party, Gibbs was
opposed by enough within his party to prevent his election.
On the sixteenth ballot H. W. Corbett, of Portland, was
elected as the successful candidate. Governor Gibbs was
afterward United States district attorney for Oregon, and
was also one of the commissioners to settle the Indian war
claims of the state. In January, 1887, he died while in
London and the legislature appropriated a sum of money to
defray the expense of bringing his remains to Oregon.
90 HISTORY OF OREGON
GOVERNOR GEORGE L. WOODS
September 12, 1866 — September 14, 1870
George L. Woods was elected Govemor of Oregon
1 June, 1666, and his administration necessarily met the
ew questions arising for settlement from the Civil Wai
which had just closed.
Governor Woods was
bom in Boone County,
Missouri, on July 30,
1832, and when fifteen
years of age came to Ore-
gon with his parents. He
was admitted to the bar
in 1858. Woods was also
appointed Governor of
Utah in 1 8 7 1 , serving four
years. He afterward re-
sided in California for ten
years, returning to Oregon
in 1885, where his death
occurred on January 14,
OOVEBNOB BEOBGE L. WOOD 1 890.
Political Hostility to the Negro. The Fourteenth amend-
ment to the federal constitution, which conferred the priv-
ileges of citizenship on the recently freed negroes was rati-
fied by the legislature which convened at the beginning of
Governor Woods' administration. Much bitterness was mani'
tested regarding this question, as well as toward others
which were presented for settlement. At the session of
1 868, parly differences were so pronounced that the general
appropriation bill was not introduced until the day on which
the session should have constitutionally adjourned; and to
prevent other legislation to which they were radically op-
posed, nearly all the Republican members of the house re-
EPOCH V
191
signed in order to deprive that body of a quorum with w^ich
to conclude proceedings. This compelled an adjournment
and the State 'was forced to continue during the next two
years without the funds usually provided by law. The ses-
sion for that year ivas noted foi its continuous vrrangling
without important legislative results.
PfailoiiMth College. Promoted by United Brethren Col-
ony. Upon the arrival (1853) of the United Brethren Mis-
sionary train in Oregon, it was decided to divide Oregon
into two districts, each comprising an area of about three
thousand square miles. The south district, under the super-
FHILOMATH OOUiEGE
vision of Rev, T. J. Connor, was called Willamette, and the
north district, in charge of Rev. Jeremiah Kennoyer, was
called "Yam Hill." It was the ambition of each district not
192
HISTORY OF OREGON
only to provide necessarj' church buildings for the growing
congregations, but also to build a suitable school for the
higher religious and literary training of the young people,
who, because of the long distance across the plains, vrere
debarred from attending eastern colleges and academies.
Philomath College Established. Therefore, in 1867,
the United Brethren of Willamette District Missionary Col-
ony aided by friends, established F^ilomath College at
r%ilomath, Oregon, as the United Brethren school for
Washington, Idaho, Montana. Oregon and California. It
was chartered as a Christian college for the libera) education
of bcth sexes, and for the training of ministers. Also, ac-
cording to a provision of the charter, no intoxicating liquor
viras permitted to be sold within a mile of the institution.
For this and other reasons Philomath College prospered and
became so popular that
there was a movement to
change it into a state in-
stitution, provided the
United Brethren church
surrendered its control, a
provision 'which theChurch
authorities were unable to
meet because of certain
clauses in the charter of
the school.
Sublimity Institute. Sub-
limity Institute, a prepar-
atory school, was founded
in 1 867, at Sublimity, Ore-
gon, by Rev. Jeremiah
Kennoyer, a member of
the United Brethren Mis-
established as the preparatory
BISHOP HILTON WKIOHT
sionary Colony. It was
■ From two Greek words meaning a lover of learnlne-
EPOCH V
193
school of the North district of the United Brethren church
in Oregon. The school was prosperous for a number of
years, then closed its doors for want of sufficient patronage.
Subhmity Institute is remembered by many because of its
first President, Rev. Milton Wright, who later was chosen
bishop and who also is widely known as the father of the
famous aeronauts— Orville and Wilbur Wright.
Early Railroad Building. The first railroad of any kind
built in Oregon was a wooden tramway constructed on the
north side of the Columbia River around the Cascades in
1 850 by F. A. Chenoweth.
This was rebuilt in 1656
by P. F. Bradford. In
1662, the portage road
from The Dalles to Celilo
was built to dieapen trans-
portation to the newly dis-
covered mines in Idaho.
In 1 663, a corporation was
formed in Jacksonville to
build a railroad from
Marysville, California, to
Portland. Oregon, and
thousands of dollars were
subscribed for that pur-
pose, mostly in grain. This
was called the "Oregon
Central Railroad Com-
pany" and was authorized by the legislature to proceed
with the building of the road, but Ben Holladay,' a venture-
some exploiter, appeared before the legislature of 1866
BEN HOLLADAY
iBenJamin Holladay was born in Kentucky, and after engaging
in. securiiig mail contracts from the Missouri River to California
during the Civil War, came to Oregon to exploit the build-
ing of a railroad through the state to California. He was a re-
BOurceful man of strong personality.
1 94 HISTORY OF OREGON
and persuaded that body to declare the action of the former
session not binding. It also designated a company of Cali-
fornians who had incorporated under the same nsune to
receive the benefits of a grant of land which had been
made by^ Congress on April 22, 1867.
Railway Built to Rosehurg. HoUaday then sent agents
to Washington to secure certain concessions for his company,
and that body passed an act declaring that the company
which should construct twenty miles of road from Portlsuid
south should be entitled to the land grant. This HoUaday
was able to do through money secured in various ways,
bresJeing the first ground on April 1 6, 1 868. Through the
sale of bonds in Germany based on the land grant he was
able to complete the road to Roseburg in 1 869.
Railroad Extended to California . After the Oregon
and California Railroad was completed to Roseburg, it was
taken out of the hands of Ben HoUaday and placed under
the management of Henry Villard. The southern terminus
was soon extended to Ashland, where it remained seven
years; and in 1887, it was finished to the northern terminus
in California, thus completing the connection between Port-
land and San Francisco.
Hillocks of Harmless Snakes. Years ago ( 1 869 to
1896) water snakes were very numerous about the warm
springs along the banks of Link River, where frogs, tad-
poles and other creatures on which they preyed were abund-
ant; and it was observed that when the snakes first came
from their winter hiding places in early spring they would
shoal up into miniature hillocks, thus by close contact con-
serving the warmth of their bodies. They were entirely
harmless, and some gardeners strongly objected to having
them killed since the snakes were materially valuable in
their destruction of mice and various insects. One season
the settlers who wished to get rid of the snakes, because
they regarded them as dangerous, offered a small reward
for all that could be killed, and the boys slaughtered them
EPOCH V
195
by thousands. This wholesale destruction of the snakes
disturbed the balance of nature, and ere long an army of
frogs issued from Lake E,wauna and marched toward the
Upper Klamath Lake in such numbers that one could not
walk near the river without treading on them. The whole-
HUXOCB OF HABMI.ESS SSAEES
sale destruction of snakes did not occur again, though some
people continued to kill them, and the annual frog invasion
gradually diminished as domestic fowls' became numerous
along the river and around the margin of Lake Ewauna.
Water snakes are not now numerous, neither are frogs, and
it is thought that the birds, tame and wild, have taken a
leading part in restoring the natural equilibrium between
the serpents and amphibians. — Captain O. C. Applegate.
Lack of Postal Facilities in Early Times. One of the
most trying hardships endured by the settlers in the Oregon
iWild birds, too, assisted in reducing the exeeaaive number o(
young frogs. Shooting at ducks and other water fowls off the bridge
that spans Klamath River In the very heart of the town of Klamath
Falls, was a common practice in early times. — O. C. A.
196
HISTORY OF OREGON
Country was the time required to send and recMve mail to
and from "The States." Of course, there were no facilities
of any kind for transporting letters or papers save that of
private conveyance ivhich required nx months for the trip
in one direction. A letter sent by the wife of Doctor Whit-
man in 1 84 I was six months and seven days in traiiKt from
Waiilatpu to Westport, Missouri, which was the nearest
postoffice as one traveled eastward. The postage on the
letter from Westport to Quincy, Illinois, ^as eighteen cents.
John Minto, a well known pioneer who settled near Salem
in 1844, sent a letter to his father 'who ^as living in Pennsyl-
OVEBLAND STAQE
vania and it went by sailing vessel to Sandwich Islands and
thence across the isthmus, reaching its destination by the
way of New York six months later. The elder Minto
answered at once and his letter was delivered to the son a
few days more than one year afterward. No less personage
than the poet Joaquin Miller traveled on snow shoes and
carried the mail over the mountains for the miners of Flor-
ence, Idaho, during the winter months of the early "Sixties,"
charging fifty cents per letter.
Stage Lines and "Pony Express System." Oregon had
admitted into the Uni
) State by act of congress
EPOCH V 197
several months before the fact was known at Salem, the
capital. It was more than a decade after this event that
the overland stage coaches were abandoned for the rsulway
mail service as a means of postal transportation. The stage
lines furnished means for the development of commendable
enterprises and many fortunes were made and lost in these
undertakings. Most of the lateral lines were known as the
**pony express** system, which required much courage and
dsuring, but the western pioneer spirit overcame all difficult
ties, until the evolution of the railway, cheaper postage and
the rural free delivery system, which now delivers mail dsuly
to nearly every household in the United States. And many
men and women are now living in Oregon who have seen
this marvelous change — the reduction of the time required
for a letter to travel from Oregon to the Missouri river from
six months to three days!
. HISTORY OF OREGON
CHAPTER XI
GOVERNOR LAFAYETTE GROVER
September 14. 1870— February I, 1877
Few men Have filled «o
prominent a place in Oregon
for BO long a period as Lafay-
ette Grover, the fourth Gov-
ernor of the State. He was
bom in Bethel, Maine, on No-
vember 29, 1823, and jour-
neying to California in 1850,
came to Oregon the next year
and located in Douglas Coun-
ty. Later he served in the
legislature from Marion Coun-
ty, and was a member of the
state constitutional convention
that met in Salem in August,
1857.
Upon the admission, of
Oregon into the Union, Mr.
Synchronized Chart of the World. In 1871, there appeared a
popular chart of the world under the title of "A Chronological Cbart
of Ancient, Modern and Biblical History, synchronized by Sebastian
C. Adams, of Salem, Oregon." The chart, which soon found place
in many of the leading colleges, univeraitiea and theological sem-
inaries of the country, is interesting because of its agreement with
the prevailing ideas of that time concerning important dates In
sacred history. For example, the chart placed the creation of the
first man at 4004 years before the Christian era, a statement which
receives little credence at present. Hence knowledge of the chart
prepared by this Oregon author, is valuable to us chiefly for the
reason that it gives us the popular conception of ancient history
in so late a time as 1871. Anticipating objections to his statements,
the author, who evidently knew the earth is much older than an-
nounced in his chart, explained that "to disturb this system would
produce great confusion with no good results;" and he suggests that
"no one is hindered from extending the stream of time back — to suit
the chronology of the Septiiagint, Ihe claims of the Vedas and
fumnas ot India or the tabulous uncertainties of Chinese traditions,"
EPCX:H V 199
Grover was elected the first member of congress but
served only seventeen days, as his term expired the fourth
of Meurch, 1859. He was elected Governor in June, 1870,
and was re-elected in June, 1874. In the middle of Gro-
ver' s second term he was chosen United States Senator by
the legislature and resigned the office of Governor in Febru-
ary, 1877. Upon the expiration of his term in the senate,
Grover returned to Portland and lived a retired life, his
death occurring in Portland in July, 1911.
Trouble With the Modocs. Originally the Klamath
Indians disagreed among themselves. A portion of their
number, upon withdrawing, to territory farther south, were
called Modocs, an Indian name meaning **enemies.** The
Modocs soon claimed to be a distinct tribe suited to their
name and as they believed, their name was suited to the
tribe. Truly they were enemies, not only to the other
Indians, but to the whites also, some of whom they massa-
cred. Their treachery was in turn avenged in 1832 by
Captain Ben Wright,^ who killed forty-seven of their num-
berot^ a peace meeting to which he had invited them. This
deed led to a war which continued at intervals until 1 864,
at which time the Indians were put on Klamath reservation,
where lived some of their ancient enemies. A clan of the
Modocs under Captain Jack, becoming dissatisfied and
somewhat turbulent, left the reservation, and then brought
on the Modoc War.
Modoc War. The Cause. Upon being ordered to re-
turn to the Klamath reservation in the spring of 1872, the
Modocs under Captain Jack refused obedience. Fighting
commenced on the 29th of November, 1872, and on the
16th of the following month the Indians retreated into the
lava bed stronghold on Tule Lake, where according to
Captain O. C. Applegate, *The little band of Modocs held
lOn February 22, 1856, an Indian assassinated Captain Ben
Wright in his cabin near the mouth of Rogue River.
200
HISTORY OF OREGON
CAFTAIH JACK
out five and a half months among the labyrinUiine corridors
of one of the strongest natural fortifications in the world,
backed as it is by miles of rugged outvrarks and honqr-
combed with yawning fissures
if unknown depth."
Massacre of the United
States CommissiOTU Generals
Wheaton and Ciilitun proved
un successful in their efforts
to dislodge the Modocs. In the
meantime, the government
appointed a commission of in-
quiry, consisting of General E.
R. S. Canby, Rev. E. Thomas,
Superintendent of Indian Af-
fairs, Colonel A. B. Meacham,
and Indian Agent L. F. Dyer.
The meeting of the Commission with the insurgent chief
Captain Jack, and his staff, took place in a depression in
the lava beds one mile from the soldiers, April I I. 1873.
General Canby, Supt. Meacham and Agent Dyer addressed
the Indians. Thereupon Captain Jack gave the signal "AD
Ready," and Genera] Canby and Rev. Thomas were treach-
erously killed, and Meacham, with five bullet wounds, fell
apparently dead. "While he lay prostrate among the rocks,
unconscious and bloody, a Modoc placed the muzzle of hia
gun against Mr. Meacham's head, but the Modoc woman,
Winema the interpreter, with the valor of Pocahontas,
dashed away the gun, saying in Modoc, 'Do not shoot a
dead man!' Another drew his knife and made an incision
around the margin of Mr. Meacham's hair preparatory to
scalping him, when Winema cried out in Modoc, "The sol-
diers are coming.* Instantly the Modocs sprang for the
rocks, carrying with them clothing and valuables taken
from the victims." The soldiers appeared; Agent Dyer and
EPOCH V 201
the interpreter. Riddle, with Winema, who was Riddle's
Indian wife, made good their escape; and, fortunately,
Meacham^ recovered to live many years.
Modoc War Ended* Captain Jack's signal, **A11 Ready,"
with the assassination which followed, "was the Indieoi dec-
laration of war. A vigorous campsugn was then opened
against the Modocs intrenched in the Lava Beds, which
resulted in the capture of the band, including Captain Jack
and his associates, in June, 1873. The treatment of the
captives was a new departure in the Indian policy of the
United States. The principals were tried for murder in a
civil court, and seven of them convicted and sentenced to be
hanged. Four of the assassins of Canby and Thomas, Cap**
tain Jack, Sconchin, Boston Charley, and Black Jim, were
duly executed at Fort Klamath ; the others were respited and
sent to a reservation in Dakota, where they were kept under
close guard." — Scribner's U. S. History.
lAfter his recovery, Colonel A. B. Meacham, who was a citizen
of Oregon, went to Boston where he lectured as a champion of the
American Indians whom he believed had been grossly mistreated by
the whites. At once he foimd many ardent sympathizers, among
whom were Wendell Phillips, the distinguished orator, and James
Redpath, founder of the Redpath Lecture Bureau. Influenced by the
encouragement he received, Mr. Meacham continued his lectures
and published a book called the "Wigwam and Warpath"; or "The
Royal Indian in Chains," in which he dwelt to a large extent upon
the history of the Modoc War, condoning the course of the insurgent
Modocs and their leader. Later a dramatic company was organized
with Colonel Meacham as lecturer and James Redpath as personal
manager. Frank Riddle the interpreter and a number of prominent
Indians, among whom was Winema, were chosen as performers.
Because of his personal experience on the warpath and his thorough
acquaintance with the character and history of the redman, Captain
O. C. Applegate was placed in charge of the Indians. Major and
Mrs. C. B. Raymond of Boston financed the enterprise. The lecture
tour which embraced the principal cities from Sacramento to the
National .Capital, resulted in creating a more favorable sentiment
for fair and intelligent treatment of the American Indians. After
the lecture tour Colonel Meacham made Washington, D. C, his
headquarters, and devoted his remaining years to the publication
of a paper called the "Council Fire," which espoused the cause of
the redman.
202 HISTORY OF OREGON
Memaloose Island. Ancient Ifidian Cemetery. One
of the very interesting points of Oregon is the Memaloose
Island in the Columbia River, a few miles below The Dalles.
It is one of the oldest of the Indian burial grounds in the
Northwest, and is mentioned in the journal of Lewis and
Clark when they made their famous joum^ of exploration
in (804-6. Even at that time, however, it was an anciott
burying ground, for 4be' history does not point to a time
MEMALOOSE ISLAND.
when Indians were not occupying this western coast. Mema-
loose Island is about 200 by 200 feet in area and is exceed-
ingly rocky: and being located in the Columbia River afford-
ed a safe place to deposit the bodies of the dead where
there was freedom from the prowlings of wild animals.
When the whites first came to the Oregon Country there
were many burying grounds used by the Indians, but that
at Memaloose Island was the most generally preferred.
Indian bones were to be seen in abundance; but in recent
years the Island is not used for that purpose. "Memaloose"
came from the Chinook jargon, which was spoken by the
early pioneers and the Indians, and as a verb the word
means "to kill."
EPOCH V
203
Memaloose Island is a Point of Interest to travelers
along the Columbia River either by boat or rail, and being
nearer the Oregon shore than that of the state of Washing'
ton is easily seen from the trains of the Oregon -Washington
Railroad Company. Victor Trevitt, a pioneer of 1851,
PKE-niBTOKIO DEAD OH MEMALOOSE ISLAND, 18BS.
^vhose home ivas in The Dalles, ^as a special friend of the
Indians, and when he died several years ago was buried on
Memaloose Island under the terms of a provision in his will.
He set aside a sufficient sum to bear the expense and named
a personal friend in Portland to see that it was complied
with, remarking that he "had met many crooked white men
but no Indian had ever failed to keep a promise with him
when once made." Mr. Trevitt was a state senator from
Wasco County in 1866 and in 1870. A granite monument
on Memaloose Island, plainly seen from either bank of the
Colimibia River, marks his last resting place. He died in
San Francisco on January 24, IS63, and. on the fourth of
the following month was buried on the isle that was "sacred
to his aboriginal friends."
Gmr of Agriculture Established in Oregon. In 1873,
the follovring tvro-year course in agriculture was offered by
Corvallis College, which the Oregon Legislature in 1868
had selected for the teaching of the subject:
204
HISTORY OF OREGON
AGRICULTURE
Course of Study
First Year. First Term, — Chemical Physics and Inorganic
Chemistry, Structural and Physiological Botany. First five books
of Davles' Legendre,
Second Term. — Organic Chemistry. How Crops Grow. Bnglleli
Language.
Third Term. Qualitative Analysis. Detection of the alkalies,
alkaline-earths, earths, etc. Systematic Botany; Escurslons and
Collections. English Language.
Second Year. First Term. — Qualitative Analysis continued. De-
tection and Separation of the Elements. Chain Surveying and Men-
suration. Geometrical Drawing. General Principles of Zoology,
(or German).
Second Term. General Principles of Geology, Vegetable Econ-
omy; How Plants Feed. Topographical Drawing. Animal Physiol-
ogy, (or German).
Third Term. Geology of Oregon. Vegetable Economy. Ento-
mology, (or German).
The foregoing was the first c
on the Pacific coast. Professor
pointed professor of agricuUi
B. J. HAWTHORNE
regard with increasing fai
ourse in agriculture offered
B. J. Hawthorne was ap-
and languages, a position
which he filled eleven
years without assistance.
During this period the
classes in agriculture col-
lected and mounted about
1200 botanical specimens
and made numerous ex-
periments which stimulat-
ed the belief that the sci-
ence of agriculture is
based upon certain princi-
ples and unfailing lawa
which can be successfully
taught in a college and
thereby exalted in nation-
al estimation. Later &e
State of Oregon began to
the scientific study of agricul-
ture in schools and generously supplemented the federal
pFpl if
P^fl
■ ' «-^
ftt^S^^
_- .
-IJ
i^ J
.?^_^i
^1
^ j
^^BIWB
■Id
. -'"l:.i
!lfl
m
^f^ift'^
^1
HliMi^fai4
206 HISTORY OF OREGON
fund set aside by congress for this purpose. As a result
there are 1 6 major departments in agriculture of the Oregon
Agricultural College offering degrees, lite faculty in Agri'
culture has increased to 104 members, including twenty-
W
^1
*\ <>'
four county agents; great laboratories have been established
in the experiment station and the school of agriculture, and
the essentials of scientific agriculture have come to be taught
in many of the high schools of the state.
First State School Superintendent of Oregon. During
the first fourteen years after Oregon became a State, the
duties of the office of superintendent of public instruction
were performed by the governor. At this time there was
not a high school building in Oregon — high school instruc-
tion usually being relegated lo academies, seminaries and
other institutions of learning provided by the churches.
There were but few grammar schools. These were support-
EPOCH V. 207
ed chiefly by subscription, and were, therefore, in some re-
spects select schools during a portion of the year, open
only to the well-to-do. As a rule the public schools were
ungraded, and there v^as no uniform system of text-books
in use. Above all, the laws governing teachers and the
granting of teachers' certificates were lax, and teachers' in-
stitutes were rarely held. There was a provision in the
state constitution, however, that after five years from adop-
tion, it should be competent for the legislature to provide
for the election of a state superintendent of schools; the
office was, therefore, separated from that of governor in
1673. The first superintendent of public instruction was
Sylvester C. Simpson, who ^as appointed to the office by
Governor L. F. Grover. Mr. Simpson assumed the duties
of his office January 30, 1873.
2 08 HISTORY OF OREGON
Department of Public Instruction Reorganized. Upon
the appointment of State School Superintendent Simpson,
a meeting of the State Board of Education was held in the
Governor's office to reorganize the department of public
instruction. There were present: L. F. Grover, Governor
and ex-officio President of the Board; S. F. Chadwick, Sec-
retary of State, and Sylvester C. Simpson, Superintendent
of Public Instruction and ex-officio Secretary of the Board.
The Board appointed President B. L. Arnold of Corvallis
College, President Thomas M. Gatch 6f Willamette Univer-
sity, Professor A. J. Anderson of Pacific University, Pro-
fessor John W. Johnson of the Portland schools, and 1. Allen
Macrum, principal of Oregon City Seminary, to act in con-
ducting examinations of teachers and in adopting a uniform
series of textbooks for the schools of the State. In July,
1873, the following textbooks were adopted for use in the
public schools of Oregon for four years beginning October 1 ,
5 873: Thomson's New Primary Mental, New Rudiments
of Arithmetic, and new Practical Arithmetic; Brooks* Nor-
mal Mental Arithmetic, Monteith*s Introduction to Geogra-
phy and Physical Intermediate Geography (Pacific Coast
Edition), Beginners' Grammar and Clark's Normal Gram-
mar, Barnes' Brief History, Peter Parley's Universal History,
Spencerian Penmanship and Copy-books, Robinson's Higher
Arithmetic, Brooks' Algebra and Geometry, Anderson's
General History, Hart's Composition, Steele's Fourteen
Weeks in Physiology, Natural Philosophy, and Chemistry,
Woods' Botany and Florist, and Bryant and Stratton's High
School Bookkeeping." On September 22d of the samne year
the Board, upon the recommendation of a majority of coun-
ty school superintendents, adopted the Pacific Coast First,
Second, Third, Fourth and Fifth Readers, with Hopkins'
Manual of American Ideas in lieu of a Sixth Reader; and
the Pacific Coast Spellers replaced Webster's Elementary
Speller, which had done service as primer, first reader, and
spelling book in many schools. The printed course of study
EPOCH V 209
with a list of rules adopted by the board was officially
placed on the walls in all public school rooms of the State.
Also strong influence was brought to bear upon communities
to support their schools by taxation, so that elementary *
education might be free to all persons between the ages of
four and twenty years; and among numerous other begin-
nings, county institutes were held for the improvement and
uplift of the teaching profession. State Superintendent
Simpson continued in office until September 1 4, 1 8 74, when
he was succeeded by Dr. L. L. Rowland, who had been
connected with Bethel College mentioned elsewhere in this
publication.
The Oregon Caves. Their Discovery. In 1874, a
wounded bear, closely pursued by Elijah Davidson, took
refuge in a mountain recess which later proved to be one
of the doorways to the Oregon Caves. The mountain, which
was afterwar.ds called Cave Mountain, is 6,000 feet high.
It is located in Josephine County, and divides the Illinois
River from Applegate Creek. Openings were found later
on the opposite side of the mountain; and it w^as believed
that a constant draught might pass through the caves from
the portals on one side to the outlet on the other side about
three miles away. Thereupon a fire was kindled at the
entrance and within a short time smoke was seen emerging
from the portals on the farther side, which conclusively
proved there is a continuous passage through Cave Mountain.
Description The Oregon Caves, in decorations of wall
and ceiling, surpass the Mammoth Cave of Kentucky. So
far as known they consist of **five levels of glittering cham-
bers with a basement apparently bottomless.*' Upon further
exploration it may be found that they extend through the
marble summit of the Siskiyou mountains into California.
The largest explored chamber is the Ghost Room, common-
ly called Dante's Inferno. It has the shape of a crescent
520 feet long and 50 feet wide, with a ceiling about 40 feet
high. It is about 1 600 feet beneath the summit of the
i
210
HISTORY OF OREGON
mountain, and is located nearly two-thirds of a mile back
from the main entrance. The Graveyard, a chamber about
75 feet long and 25 feet wide, is next in size to the Ghost
Room. Joaquin Miller's Chapel is a beautiful room, in which
there is a pillar seven feet high and ten inches in diameter.
Near the pillar is a stalacite and a stalagmite that have nearly
grown together, illustrating how the pillar in Joaquin Miller's
Chapel was formed. Fantastic decorations of ^^Is, ceilings
and floors with huge flowers and vegetables in limestone are
"JOAQUIH MILLEB'S OHAPEL," OBEOOH
among the attractive features of the chambers and galleries.
Some of the most wonderful of these are found in that
end of the Ghost Room known as Paradise Lost.
The Caves a Part of National Reserve. The Oregon
Caves, embracing in all 420 acres, were set aside by the
National Government in 1913, because of their scientific
interest. The Forest Service maintains a camp at the prin-
EPOCH V. 211
cipal entrance to the Caves/ where may be found during the
tourist season a competent guide who daily conducts parties
gratis over a route covering three and one-half miles * 'among
the wondrous marble halls of Oregon.**
First Oregon-built Revenue Cutter. The year 1875
marks an era in Oregon naval construction, as it was at this
time that the revenue steam cutter **Corvin*' was built and
engined by Mr. Edwin Russell, at Albina. John Steffin was
the master mecheuiic for construction of hull, and Smith
Brothers & Watson installed the machinery. After twenty
years of service in northern waters, the hull of the **Corvin"
was found to be in perfect condition, which was additional
proof that Douglas fir of which it was constructed, is first
class material for ship building. The advent of the **Corvin"
determined Lloyd*s Register of British and Foreign Shipping
—one of the great classification societies — to. establish a
branch office at Portland, Oregon; and in 1884 Capt.
George Pope was elected by Lloyd* s Committee to act for
them as Ship and Engineer Surveyor with jurisdiction from
the southern border of Oregon to and including Alaska.
Blue Mountain University. Blue Mountain University
was the only university ever established in Eastern Oregon.
La Grande was chosen for the location of the institution
because of the central location of the town with reference
to Elastem Oregon and Washington. An endowment was
soon subscribed by leading citizens, and in the fall of 1875
Blue Mountain University was opened under the auspices
of the Methodist Episcopal Church, with Rev. H. K. Hines
as financial agent, and J. L. Carter as acting president. The
classes were accommodated in the public school building,
while the town hall was reserved for the larger gatherings
that attended the institution. In 1876, the University was
moved into a new two-story brick edifice erected by the
iThe Oregon Caves are commonly reached by trail, six miles
from Grimmitt's ranch on the Illinois side, and three miles from
Caves Camp on the Applegate side.
2 1 2 HISTOR V OF OREGON
trustees; and the attendance was increased to two hundred
students from Oregon, Washington and Idaho. Because
of certain unavoidable but far-reaching financial reverses,
Blue Mountain University closed its doors in 1883, having
completed a comparatively brief but signally important
career.
Hayes-TOden Contest Over Oregon Electoral Commis-
sion. During the closing months of L. F. Grover's term as
Governor, Oregon's prominence in national affairs was aug-
mented by reason of its connection with the Hayes-Tilden
contest for the presidency. The state had voted in favor
of Mr. Hayes, but since the result in the electoral college
stood 1 85 for Hayes and 1 84 for Tilden, the managers for
the latter sought to declare J. W. Watts, one of the electors
for Oregon, ineligible because he wais postmaster, which
disqualified him under a federal law, from holding two re-
munerative offices at once. Governor Grover refused to
issue a commission to Watts, and, instead, gave it to £. A.
Cronin, a Tilden elector. This would have resulted in the
election of Tilden as President of the United States, but the
Electoral Commission, to which this and other doubtful
questions were referred, decided in favor of Watts, on the
ground that the people of Oregon had unquestionably voted
in favor of Hayes, and their will should be observed; so
the vote of Mr. Watts, the republican elector from Oregon
was counted, without which Hayes could not have been
elected to the Presidency.
University of Oregon. The predecessor of the Univer-
sity of Oregon was Columbia College. This college, which
was located (1860) by the Presbyterians at Eugene, Ore-
gon, trained many prominent men and women, among
whom was the poet, Joaquin Miller. However, the school
languished for want of patronage; and it became evident
EPOCH V 213
that a stronger organization was necessary to continue an
institution of higher learning in that locality under condi-
tions then prevailing.
Establishment of the University. In admitting Oregon
to the Union, Congress had set apart (1859) seventy-two
sections of land, from which had accumulated by this time
TnnVEBSITY OF OKBOOK
(1872) the sum of $80,000 for the establishment of the
State University. Accordingly, the Union University Asso-
ciation, which was organized to place the school at Eugene
on a better basis, proposed to the State to provide a build-
ing, ground, and furnishings to cost not less than $50,000,
if the Legislature would establish the state university at
Eugene. The offer was promptly accepted, and the follow-
ing directors were immediately appointed: Matthew P.
Deady, R. S. Strahan, L. L. McArthur, John M. Thompson,
Thomas G. Hendricks, George Humphreys. Benjamin F.
Dorris, William J. Scott, and Joshua J. Walton. Deady Hall
was completed July. 1876, and on the sixteenth of October
214
HISTORY OF OREGON
of that year, the University of Oregon opened with the
following faculty — John W. Johnson, President and Pro-
fessor of Greek and Latin;
Mark Bailey, professor of
mathematics; Tliomas Con-
don, professor of Geology and
natural history; Mary P. Spill-
er, principal of the prepara-
tory department.
In 1680, Deady Hall,
the only building of the Uni-
versity, was practically ordered
sold to satisfy unpaid bills on
its construction; and the insti-
tution was in desperate finan-
cial straits. At this time Hen-
ry Villard came to the rescue
with the unsubscribed balance.
Later, Mr. Villard made vari-
ous liberal contributions to the
University, one of which was an endowment of $50,000, —
the only endowment the institution has ever received. In
recognition of these loyal and generous
services, which came without solicita-
tion, the second building of the Uni-
versity was named Villard Hall.
Oregon Geological Discloiurei.
The patient and prolonged investiga-
tions into the story of the rocks of Ore-
gon by Professor Thomas Condon,
iraiVBiisiTY or ^^,ho. for a number of years was a mem-
OBEOON SEAL j^^^ ^j ^j^^ j^^^,^ ^j ^^ University of
Oregon, has added a vast fund of valuable information as
to the geological formation underlying our state. His dis-
covery and analysis of many fossil specimens found in
Eastern Oregon will be of intense interest to the student of
EPOCH V.
215
geology. Especially valuable are his discoveries of the
existence of the form of horse that abounded in that region
in the Miocene age, "a genus of three or four species, vary-
ing in size from that of a Newfoundland dog twenty five to
twenty-seven inches in height to that of a small donkey.
There were three continuous sets of bones in each lower
leg, joined to as many separate hoofs, ^vhile in the living
horse two of the hoof attachments are only rudimentary,
their functions being lost."
These, with many other rare specimens were discov-
ered by Doctor Condon and his assistants in the region of
John Day river in Grant County, and are carefully pre-
served in the State Uni-
versity of Oregon. Doctor
Condon says of this horse,
"many of these fossils in-
dicate a really beautiful
little animal of graceful
outline about the size of
an antelope, bringing to
that early period a truthful
prophecy of the highest
type of our present horse.
And so abundant were
they on the hills of Sho- ancient cembtesy
shone that fragments of skeletons are found in nearly all its
fossil beds. In his description of one of these fossils Doctor
Condon says "it was of this handsome specimen from John
Day that an experienced stableman once exclaimed. "Full
mouth, five years old past. Horse? By George, it is!"
The Geological Revelations Yet to be Made by investi-
gators will be of supreme interest and value and will add
immeasurably to the amount of knowledge at the service
of the human family. Of this subject in general Dr. Condon
said; "One can scarcely study such a form, as he loosens
fragment after fragment from a crumbling hillside, without
*m:^-
2 1 6 HISTORY OF OREGON
a conviction that the laur of lineal descent, with the hold-
ing ponrer of heredity and the directing power of an all
comprehensive plan* entered together into its creation.
The Almighty's work of creation* as recorded among these
^oshone hills of Miocene times, may properly be de-
fined as a providential bringing together of the agencies of
mountain streams, of uplifting forces, of scattering seeds,
of the nurture of plants and animals and of the gathering
into this favored region the life that this same Providence
stretching over a preceding age, had prepared for this
Western Eden of the Miocene."
EPOCH V 217
GOVERNOR STEPHEN F. CHADWICK
February 1. 1877— September 11. 1878
By the resignation of Governor Grover in February,
1877, Stephen F. Chadwick, who was Secretary of State,
became acting Governor
to fill the unexpired
term. He had been elect-
ed Secretary of State in
1870, and again in 1874.
As there was no session of
the legislature held during
the short term of Gover-
nor Chadmck, his respon-
sibilities were confined to
the ordinary discharge of
the official duties pertain-
' ing to the execution of
the \a-wB as he found
them, and he retired in
September, 1878.
Governor , Chadwick
continued his residence oovebhoe s. f. chadwick
in Salem until his death in January, 1695. He was bom in
Connecticut, December 25, 1825: was admitted to the bar
in New York in 1850, and came to the Umpqua Valley in
Oregon in 1 85 I . He was the first judge of Douglas County;
and in 1857, he was a member of the constitutional con-
vention, and was presidential elector in 1 864 and 1 868.
War With Chief Joseph and the Nez Perces. "When
Chief Joseph of the Nez Perces, and his brother, Olicut, in-
herited the name and power of their father. Old Joseph
called the two sons to his death bed (1872) and requested
them to hold forever the beautiful Wallowa Valley, in
Oregon. It was in defense of this valley and protest against
2 1 6 HISTORY OF OREGON
its settlement by the whites that the famous Nez Perce War
was fought." — Major Lee Moorhouse.
The Nez Perce War came about after this manner:
"Chief Joseph.' who had about 500 Nez Perce Indians aa his
following, had laid claim to the boundary as established
WAIJ.OWA I.ASE Photo. W. A. Parker
by the treaty of 1855, especially that country west of the
Snake River in Oregon and the Wallowa Valley. . . . Presi-
dent Grant conceded it to the Nez Perces in his executive
order of June 16. 1873. but on June 10. 1875, this order
was revoked, and all that part of Oregon west of the Snake
River, embracing the Wallowa Valley, was restored to the
public domain. In the early part of 1677, the United States
decided to have Chief Joseph and his followers removed
>A portion of the eloauent speech of the dying tather ie thus
recorded by Young Joseph:
"My son, my body is returnine to my mother Earth; and my
spirit is going very soon to see the Great Spirit Chief. When I
am gone, think of your country. You are the chief of these peo-
ple. They look to you to guide them. Always remember that your
father never sold his country. You muat stop your ears when
asked to sign a treaty selling your home. A few years more, and
white men will be all around you. They have their eyes on this
land. My son. never forget my dying words. This country holds
your father's body. Never sell the bones of your father and'
your mother.
"I pressed my father's hand and told him 1 would protedt his
grave with niy life. My father smiled and passed away to the
spirit land. I buried him in the valley of the Winding Waters. I
love that land more than all the rest of the world. A man that
wvald Dot love his father's grave Is worse than a wild animal."
EPOCH V
219-
from the Wallowa to the reservation in Idaho. Orders were
issued to General O. O. Howard to "occupy Wallowa Val'
1^ in the interest of peace." That distinguished and
humane soldier endeavored to induce Joseph to comply
with the plans of the government. On May 2 1 , General
Howard reported that he had a conference with Joseph and
other chiefs on May 1 9, and that "they yielded a con-
strained compliance with the orders of the government,
and had been allowed thirty days to gather in their people,
stock, etc." On June 14 the Indians under Joseph from
Wallowa, White Bird, from Salmon River, and Looking-
glass from Clear Water assembled near Cottonwood Creek,
in apparent compliance with their promise, ^hen General
Howard, who was at Fort Lapwai, heard that four white
men had been murdered by some Nez Perces, and that
White Bird had announced that he ^vould not go on the
reservation. Other murders
were reported. General
Howard dispatched two
companies under Captain
Perry, who made an unsuc-
cessful attack upon the In-
dians at White Bird Canyon.
General Hovrard then per-
sonally took the field, and on
July I 1 , he defeated the In-
dians in a deep ravine on the
Clearwater, driving them
from their position." — Har-
per's Encyclopedia of U, S.
History.
Retreat and Capture of _ „
Oiief Joseph. On July 1 7, yojisq ckiet Joseph
1877, the famous retreat of Chief Joseph began, followed
by the troops of General O. O. Howard. The thrilling story
pf this retreat, written by some gifted Indian, would sound
220 HISTORY OF OREGON
much like Xenophon*s story of the **Retreat of the Ten
Thousand.** General Gibbon, who was then in Montana,
started in pursuit. August 20, the Indians turned on Gen-
eral Howard and stampeded his pack train, which was par-
tially recovered later by the cavalry. **The fleeing Indians
then traveled some of the worst trails for man or beast on
this continent,** as described by General Sheridan. On Sep-
tember 1 3, they gave battle to General Sturgis near the
mouth of Clark*s Fork. **The Indians proceeded north to-
ward the British possessions with the view of join-
ing the renegade Sioux with whom Sitting Bull was in
hiding.** The Indians, who had successfully retreated a
thousand miles, crossed the Missouri River, and at the
mouth of Eagle Creek in the Bear Creek Mountains, ^thin
fifty miles of the British possessions, were attacked by
Colonel Miles. As the fight was closing. General Howard
came up and the entire band of Indians surrendered to
him and General Miles. **This,** said General Sheridan,
**ended one of the most extraordinary Indian wars of which
we have any record.** The Indians throughout displayed
a courage and skill that elicited universal praise; they ab-
stained from scalping; let captive women go free; did not
commit indiscriminate murder of peaceful families, \^ich
is unusual; and fought with almost scientific skill. After
the war the Nez Perces were sent to Indian Territory where
they were peaceable and industrious; and May, 1885, they
returned to Idaho and Washington; but they were never
again permitted to live in the Wallowa Valley for which
the Nez Perce War was fought. September 21, 1 904, Chief
Joseph died at the age of 67, at his lonely place of exile at
Nespelem on the Colville Indian Reservation, Washington,
surrounded by a small band of his intimate friends. A splen-
did monument erected by the State of Washington now
marks his grave.
EPOCH V 221
SPEECH OF CHIEF JOSEPH
(An Extract)
My friends, my name is In-mu-too-yah-lat-Iat ( Thun-
der- traveling-over-the^moun tains). I have beeen asked to
show you my heart. I am glad to have a chance to do so
now. I want the white man to understand my people. The
white m£ui has many words to tell how my people look to
him, but it does not require many words to speak the truth.
What 1 have to say will come from my heart, and I will speak
it with a straight tongue. The Great Spirit is looking at me,
said will hear me.
Good words do not last long until they amount to
something. Words do not pay for dead people. They do
not pay for my country now overrun by white men. They
do. not protect my father's grave. They do not pay for my
horses and cattle. Good words will not give me back my
children. Good words will not give my people good health
and stop them from dying. Good words will not get my
people a home where they can live in peace, and take care
of themselves. It makes my heart sick when I remember all
the good words and all the broken promises. There has
been too much talk by white men who had no right to talk.
If the white man wants to live in peace with the Indians,
he can live in peace. There need be no trouble. Treat all
men alike. Give all the same law. Give them an even
chance to live and grow^. All men were made by the same
Great Spirit Chief. They are all brothers. The earth is the
mother of all people, and all people should have the same
rights. If you tie a horse to a stake, do you expect him to
grow fat. If you pen an Indian on a small spot of earth and
compel him to stay there, he will not be content, nor will he
grow and prosper. I have asked some of the great white
chiefs where they get their authority to say to the Indian that
he shall stay in one place, while white men go w^here they
please. They cannot tell us.
When I think of our condition my heart is heavy. I see
222 HISTORY OF OREGON
men of my race treated as outlaws^ and driven from country
to country, or shot down like animals.
Let me be a free man — free to travel, free to stop, free
to work, free to trade where I choose, free to choose my
teachers, free to follow the religion of my fathers, free to
think and talk and act for myself — and I will obey every
law, or submit to the penalty.
When the white men treat the Indians as they treat
each other, then we shall have no more wars. We shall be
alike — brothers of one father and one mother. There will
be one sky above, one country around us, and one gov-
ernment for all. Then the Great Spirit Chief will smile upon
this land. He will send rain to wash out the bloody spots
made by my brothers* hands upon the face of the earth.
For this the Indian is waiting and praying. 1 hope that no
more groans of wounded men and women will ever go to
the ear of the Great Spirit Chief and that all people may be
one people.
In-mu-too-yah-lat-lat has spoken for his people.
The Piute-Bannock Indian War. One of the fiercest,
though not greatly protracted, Indian outbreaks knoivn to
the history of the Northwest was the hostile raid of the
Bannock, Piute and Snake tribes through Nevada, Eastern
Oregon and Southern Idaho in the summer of 1878. The
trouble originated by reason of the dissatisfaction of the
Piutes on account of the removal of a favorite agent and the
appointment of one whom they disliked. Following the ad-
vice of a few leaders who claimed an inspiration that the
time had come when a coalition of various tribes could over-
throw the whites in the Northwest, the effort was made under
the leadership of Egan, the head of the Piutes. Joined by
the Bannocks, the Snakes, and later by some of the Uma-
tillas, a destructive campaign was inaugurated which tcoced
the unprepared whites to the utmost for more than a month.
Killing settlers, burning houses and stealing horses and cat-
tle, the savages terrorized a wide section which included
EPOCH V 223
Grant, Umatilla, Baker, and Malheur counties in Oregon and
reaching into the Weiser Valley in Idaho. Genaral O. O.
Howard, who was commander of the Military Department of
the Columbia, stationed at Vancouver, at once went to the
scene of hostilities and Governor Chadwick went to Pendle-
ton and remained there during the period of danger in Uma-
tilla county. On July 6, a battle occurred on the headwaters
of Birch Creek sixty miles south of Pendleton; and on July
1 2, George Coggan, a prominent pioneer of La Graiide, wras
murdered a few miles from Cayuse station, while several
other men were wounded. In all, about fifteen citizens of
Umatilla County were murdered.
BATTLE OF WILLOW OEEEE
A dstaclimeBt nndei Capt. J. C, Sperry was attacked b; Indlani at
Willow Creek, fart; mUea south at Pendleton, July 6, 1BT8. Aftsr
a battle of six houia the Indiana ware driven back with Idbi unknovn.
Tlie people of the other counties named were fearful of
similar experience and moved in large numbers to the
nearby towns and erected stockades for defense. It ^as
thought that the Indians intended to cross into Washington
and Idaho by the ^ay of the Grand Ronde and Wallowa
valleys, but the hot pursuit of the forces of General Howard
evidently changed their plans, and they sought escape
224 HISTORY OF OREGON
through the Blue Mountain ridges into the Malheur coun-
try. Chief Egan was murdered by Umapine, a Cayuse In-
dian who, through fear, had espoused the cause of the
whites, and the backbone of the uprising was broken.
Dividing into smaller bands and following numerous trails
the Indians were finally either dispersed or captured. , The
Piutes, who were the real leaders in the terrific uprising, were
mostly captured and removed to the Yakima Indian
agency; but they could not be made to accept the ways of
civilization, as the Simcoe Indians had done, and after a
time were permitted to return to their former home in
Northern Nevada.
The Three Climates of Oregon. Oregon possesses
nearly every variety of climate found in the Temperate
Zone. But it may be said to have three principal climates
which vary in moisture and temperature as the regions which
they affect rise in altitude or approach the equator and the
ocean. These climates are as marked as those of far distant
states or of foreign countries; so that men, cattle and horses
removed for a sufficient time from one Oregon climate to
another are materially affected by the change.
The Coast Climate is that of the region between the
Coast Range and the Pacific Ocean. It is the most humid
climate in the State. The atmosphere of the Coast Climate
is heavily charged with vapor much of which is lost in rain-
fall before it is carried over the Coast Range. After cross-
ing the Coast Range a vast number of straggling clouds float
over the valleys and frequently are resolved into fog. Others
expend their substance in dew, rain and snow until they be-
come light enough to sweep over the greater heights of the
Cascade Mountains to water the region farther east. Be-
cause this region is the upland section of Oregon, we may
speak of its climate as the Highland Climate. As the at-
mosphere between the Coast Range and the Cascades is less
humid than that of the Coast Climate, but more humid than
EPOCH V 225
that of the Highland climate, we refer to it as a distinct
climate; and because the region where it prevails lies be-
tween Eastern Oregon and the Coast region, we may call
it the Midland Climate.
The Coast Climate of Oregon is somewhat similar to
the climate of England. The Midland Climate of Oregon is
similar to that found further toward the interior of France.
The Highland Climate of Oregon is much like that of the
uplands of Central Europe.
226 HISTORY OF OREGON
GOVERNOR W. W. THAYER
Septonber 11, 1878— September 3, 1882.
Bom on a farm in the state of New York on July 15,
1827, Governor W. W.
Thayer came to Oregon in
September, 1862, locating
in Corvallis. in 1851, he
had been admitted to the
bar in his native state,
and he continued in that
profession until his death.
He went to Idaho in 1863.
After serving as a member
of the Idaho legislature
and as district attorney of
the third judicial district in
that territory, Mr. Thayer
removed to Portland in
1867. He was elected
Governor of Oregon in
GOV. WILLIAM WALLACE THAYEB , .mo i rii i .i .
June 1 0/(5, and tilled that
office with distinction from September, 1878, until Septem-
ber 1882.
Asylum Removed from Portland to Salem. Efforts
had been previously made to remove the State Insane Asy-
lum from Portland to Salem, but powerful local influences
succeeded in preventing the change. During the session of
1 680, however, a strong combination ^as formed to resist
all opposition to the movement, and the act passed
with but two votes to spare in the house. T'wo
years later, the buildings having been completed, the pa-
tients ^ere removed to Salem and the long contest was
ended. Prior to that date alt the State's mentally defective
were kept in Portland under the private contract system,
which was unsatisfactory and expensive. The institution is
now known as the Oregon State Hospital at Salem.
EPOCH V
227
Preudent Hayei Visited Oregon. President Hayea
made Kia memorable vint to the Pacific Coast in September,
1880, and on the 30th of that month was given a public
reception in the Hall of Representatives, in the capitol.
The legislature adjourned in honor of the event and
many thousands of people availed themselves of the oppor-
tunity to meet the first President of the United States to
visit the State of Oregon. With President Hayes were his
wife, and General W. T. Sherman. Governor Thayer met
the party in the southern part of the State and accompanied
it to the State Capitol.
State Normal School at Monmouth. Upon assuming
the management of Christian College at Monmouth, (1861),
President D. T. Stanley conceived the idea of transforming
that college into a state normal school. The matter was
placed before the leg-
islature and an act was
passed (1682) by
^ich Christian College
received the title of
Oregon State Normal
School. However, the
school was dependent
upon tuition, fees, and
donations for its sup-
port; and the control
remained in the hands
of the facul^, subject
to the state superintendent of public instruction. After a
precarious existence covering a number of years as a de-
nominational school, the State Normal School at Monmouth
was taken under the control of the State in 1 89 1 , at which
time a board of regents ^vas appointed and the legislature
made its hrst appropriation to the institution. The school
steadily grew in efficiency and influnce as well as in attend-
OBEOON NOBJUAL 8CB00I.
228 SECTION XII
ance until the year 1909, when it was closed because the
legislature of that year failed to provide funds for the main-
tenance of any normal school in the state. However, at the
general initiative election held November, 1910, the peo-
ple voted a yearly tax of one twenty-fifth of a mill for the
suppoit of that institution. Consequently the State Normal
School at Monmouth reopened under the direction of Presi-
dent J. H. Ackerman, ex-Superintendent of Public Instruc-
tion of the State.
Date (or Convening Legislature Changed. Since
the beginning of the state government the legislature had
convened on the second Monday of every even-numbered
year, according to a provision of the constitution; but at the
regular session of 1 882 the time was changed to the second
Monday in January. For this reason Governor Moody,
whose term of office followed, occupied the position of
chief executive from September, 1882, until January, 1887,
the longest single gubernatorial term in the history of the
State.
EPOCH V 229
CHAPTER Xll
GOVERNOR ZENAS F. MOODY
September 13, 1882 — January 12, 1887
Zenas F. Moody was inaugurated Governor Septem-
ber 13, 1682, having been elected as the Republican can-
didate for that office. Two incidents of nation-wide in-
terest which occurred during his administration were the
bitterly contested senato-
rial elections during the
legislative session of Janu-
ary 1885, and in Novem-
ber of the same year at an
extra session. In January
Hon. Solomon Hirsch was
the regular caucus nomi-
nee of the Republican
party, which had a clear
majority on joint ballot;
but the refusal of 18 mem-
bers of the dominant party
to comply with the caU'
cus decision, caused the
contest to last during the
entire ses«on, and that
body adjourned without
an election.
Governor Moody called an extra session to convene
in the November following, at which time the Hon. John H.
Mitchell became the Republican candidate, but failed to re-
Oovemor Moody was born In Massachusetts on May 27, 1S32,
and came to Oregon by way of the Isthmus of Panama, arriving in
April, 1851. He followed various pursuita, surveying, mercantile and
mining. Went to Illinois and lived there from 1856 to 1860; returned
to Oregon In 1862, and located in The Dalles; was elected to the
legislature from Waaco County In 1S80, chosen speaker of the house
In September of that year, and elected Governor in June, 1882.
After bis term of office had expired he continued his residence In
Salem, hie death occurring in 1917.
OOVEBHOB Z. F. MOGDT
230
HISTORY OF OREGON
ceive the caucus nomination. An unprecedented bitter fi^t
was made against Mitchell but on the third ballot, by the
hdp of a sufficient number of Democrats, he was successful.
He had been a candidate during the session of 1 882 to suc-
ceed Senator Slater, but after 73 fruitless ballots, and at
the last moment of the session, Hon. J. N. DolpK Mitchell's
law partner, 'was chosen.
The effect of this senatorial contest was far-reaching
and profoundly affected the fortunes of the two dominant
political parties of Oregon for the following twenty years.
Direct Railroad Connection. The dream of the Ore-
gon pioneers and, indeed, of
many of our national statesmen,
that the time would come when
there would be railroad connec-
tion between Oregon and the
eastern part of the United
Sutea, was realized on Novem-
ber 24. 1883. when the "last
spike" was driven which held
the rail that spanned the last
gap between the O. R. & N.
railroad, building eastward
from Portland, and the Oregon
Short Line which was extended
westward from the Union Pa-
cific. There is a great deal of
HENRY V1I.LAED history between the first sug-
gestion of building a road along the forbidding banks of the
Columbia River and its actual accomplishment. The difficul-
ties of construction which were overcome on the stretch be-
tween Bonneville and The Dalles are said by railroad men to
be greater than are to be found on a similar length of line
elsewhere in the United States. In some places the workmen
were suspended from the tops of cliffs by ropes in order to
drill for blasts in the perpendicular walls. At one time
1,000 cases of fifty pounds each of powder were exploded,
and the entire face of a mountain was thrown into the
river.
The Or^on Railway and Navigation Company was in-
corporated on June I 3, 1 879, and Henry Villard ^vas elected
its president. He had come to Oregon in the interest of the
bondholders of the Oregon and California railroad, and had
bcome president of that company in 1875. He vr&e in
fact, connected in many ways with several rail'
road projects, in all of which success followed;
and he may be regarded as second only to James J.
Hill as the influence that later accomplished the ultimate
binding of Oregon with bands of steel to the eastern com-
mercial world.
For the Driving of the "Last Spike" connecting Portland
with the "outside world" at Huntington a special train was
run from that city, leaving at 6 o'clock p. m., November 24,
1883, and arriving at Huntington the next afternoon at 3 p.
m. A great celebration was held after the spike — a steel
one — had beeen driven. The Portland locomotive was
2 32 HISTORY OF OREGON
moved forward until it rested on the last placed rail and a
speech was made by United States Senator James H. Slater,
who was a passenger on his way to Washington, D. C. This
was the first through train from Oregon connecting it with
**the outside world."
The Denny Pheasant. In 1 882, Mr. O. N. Denny, who
was in the consular service of the United States, located in
Shanghai, China, had become an ardent admirer of the na-
tive pheasants of that country, which were not only very
beautiful of plumage but were superior as game fowl for
the table. Mr. Denny decided to send some of the
birds to his brother, John Denny, in Linn county,
to be turned out on the Oregon rsuiges. The
first shipment was made in the fall of 1881,
but through neglect on shipboard nearly all died. In the
following spring Mr. Denny sent fifty pheasants which ar-
rived safely and in good condition. They were liberated
on the farm in Linn county, where Mr. O. N. Denny had been
reared. The neighbors donated several sacks of wheat which
was scattered in various nearby sections, and the birds be-
came at once domesticated in their new surroundings.
Pheasants soon became numerous in that part of Linn
county, and in a few years extended their range until it
now occupies nearly all parts of Oregon and Washington.
The Denny Pheasant is a beautiful bird, and while not ex-
actly wild never becomes as tame as other birds of its
species. The males are noted for their beautiful and highly
colored plumage. They alternately occupy the nest during
the brooding season with the females, which in color are
not very different from the native pheasants.
Penitentiary Outbreak. On the morning of July 3,
1 883, occurred Oregon's worst penitentiary outbreak. Four-
teen convicts within the prison walls captured Superinten-
dent George Collins. Holding him before them for defense
and striking him with a bar of iron, they advanced suid de-
msuided that the prison gates be opened upon pain of death
EPOCH V 233
to the Superintendent. The gates were opened, fourteen
convicts rushed through, and all would have escaped, but for
a guard, William Stilwell by name, who shot some of them
while the others ran into the Superintendent's office for fire
arms. Fortunately, the guns in the office were not provided
with ammunition, hence were useless. The prison bell was
rung, convicts within the walls promptly repaired to their
cells, and were separated from the fourteen who had made
a break for liberty.
Pursuit and Capture. Immediate pursuit was made
for the fugitives and in time nearly all were captured. It
was soon learned from the prisoners who remained within
the walls that the outbreak was the result of a conspiracy
entered into by the fourteen convicts who believed the out-
break would be so general as to empty the Oregon peniten-
tiary of prisoners, under which circumstances many of the
more desperate men would be enabled to make good their
escape. Great was the satisfaction at the capitol, however,
when it was learned that the escape of the conspirators had
been prevented; and that afternoon Governor Moody^
called upon William Stilwell, the trustworthy guard, and
commended him for his faithfulness in preventing the com-
plete overthrow of order in the Oregon penitentiary.
iDesiring to ascertain from personal knowledge as to the ob-
servance of the rules governing the penitentiary at Salem, Governor
Moody with two friends, one day in November 1884, attempted to
ascend the penitentiary wall by means of a ladder. Whereupon a
guard commanded the Chief Executive to halt. The Governor per-
sisted and the guard commanded him the second time to halt, say-
ing it was against orders to allow any one on the wall. Governor
Moody said: "Who are you?" FU show you, if you come any fur-
ther," replied the guard who was pointing a gun in the direction of
the Governor. The guard's manner fully convinced the Governor
that prison orders were obeyed, so the party returned to the State
House. But that afternoon Superintendent Collins called to his
Office Finley Fullerton, the guard, and chided him for holding up
the Governor and his party, to which the quiet guard replied:
"Had I known it was the Governor and his party, I might have been
a little more temperate in my speech, but I would have held him up
just the same,"
9 »
t »
J •>
234
HISTORY OF OREGON
Prehistoric Inscriptions on the Columbia. The oldest
human accounts of Oregon, as far as known, are the rude
inscriptions in stone made apparently by some prehistoric
race. Similar inscriptions are found in many places in Ore-
gon. Some of them are as unintelligible as were once the
letters and symbols carved on the walls and pyramids of
Egypt, many of which have since proved to be the records
of wars and other events of national interest described in
the Bible. Although the Oregon stone records are at pres-
ent meaningless and mysterious to us, it is possible that
some Rosetta Stone may yet be discovered from which a
N>^^^ft:=
HIEROGLYPHICS NEAR ARLINGTON, ON THE COLUMBIA
key will be found to decipher its inscriptions and that they
may cast light upon the history of a race whose intelligence
surpasses the conception of the most credulous now living.
Hence these inscriptions are worthy of careful study. They
are so numerous, however, in Oregon, that brief mention can
be given here of but one locality where they are found.
This is the ledge along the bank of the Columbia River
opposite Arlington.
The Arlington Prehistoric Stone Inscriptio7is are ap-
parently of three classes or groups, which may belong to
as many periods. Group one seem to have been made
with a firm instrument driven by a mallet or hammer. Group
EPOCH V 235
two appear to have beeen made by bruising the stone with
some instrument. Group three were evidently made by
picking into the stone with some flinty or other hard sub-
stance, so long ago that the dark gray characters have be-
come somewhat worn and covered with a coating of black
as solid as the stone in which they were carved. They all
present the appearance of an orderly arranged and elo-
quent statement. One series of these inscriptions, which
begin with a sunrise and extend westward ending in a
sunset, seem to indicate the events of some memorable day.
Among the characters which are as well defined as the
sculpture in the Roman catacombs of the third century, are
a crescent, a five-pointed star, the letters **P*', an **0 — O",
a pine tree, a coyote head with a cryptic body, a deer, a
lizard, a branch of foliage, also a chart approximately two
feet wide and three feet long — presenting apparently the
consecutive account of an event full of significance to some
intelligent race. Who the people were that carved these
ancient symbols, when they lived, or what meaning they
strove to convey may never be known. But research
promises further light on the interesting life of a people who
abode here and flourished in the remote ages.
Prehistoric Burial Mounds Explored. The earliest ex-
plorers of Oregon found many small elevations, which be-
cause of their form and contents were termed Prehistoric
Burial Mounds. The mounds were usually near streams,
and some were covered with big trees; and, strange as may
seem, the mounds were of so great age that the oldest In-
dian had no knowledge respecting their antiquity, which
points to the fact that some race which preceded the Ameri-
can Indian might have built and occupied them. Possibly
the western Indians are descendants of the Mound Builders.
Researches were made in Linn County, Oregon, however, as
early as 1883. by Dr. J. L. Hill, J. G. Crawford, G. W.
Wright, Rev. P. A. Moses and others, which led to dis-
coveries relative to the location, shape, and probable pur-:
236 HISTORY OF OREGON
pose of the mounds. Because so many of the mounds had
been worn away in the course of a long period, it n impos-
aible to know with precision how many there were. But
there are thirty or more along the Calapooia River between
Brownsville and Albany, and many others have been found
throughout the length and breadth of Western Oregon.
The mounds were probably of considerable height >^en
first erected. But through the centuries and possible mil-
lenniums since they were cast up, storms and other action
of the elements have reduced them until they are only four
to ten feet in height, and from 50 to 150 feet in diameter.
Near some of the mounds there are to be seen depreasions
or trenches from which earth was removed in building the
mounds. One of these depressions is so deep that water
^A
,
I^^mM^P''^
1^^:^
^^^::
' -'^
CeCKKAN TIOWWD
liSD
AM 4AV.T ^j_ ^_^
is confined within it nearly all the year. On the southern
edge of the mounds, skeletons of human beings have been
exhumed — some in a sitting posture, others lying on the
side. Together with the skeletons were mortars, beauti-
^)]y carved, some of which were of Brazilian type; also
EPOCH V
237
there were bone and shell arrow heads, axes, clubs, cere-
monial stones, and other implements of conjectural use; and
of more than ordinary importance, carved stone of pecu-
liar design has been unearthed, giving evidence that the
mound builders observed phallic v^orship, a religion some'
J/. 1^ 1^
*Jf; i -o^jg .^ jv^ ■
ISDIAS SKEUITONS AND BHIJCS EXHUMED FBOM MOUNDS
OH THE CAIu^POOIA
what common to the most ancient peoples. The presence
of reddi^ burnt earth and charcoal near some of the skele-
tons indicates that the dead were buried with religious and
sacrificial rites.
In all probability these people had two homes — a sum-
mer home and a winter home. Traces of their summer
home are found in the mounds of the Willamette Valley.
In the valley they obtained their bread foods and substi-
tutes by digging camas and other herbs. Their vKvA-cx
238
HISTORY OF OREGON
home was along the tributary streams in the mountains.
Here sheltered by caves and trees they manufactured axes,
knives, battle clubs, and arrow and spear heads of flint and
obsidion, some of which had been conveyed a long
distance. Here they easily overpowered the large game^
in the deep snow. Many of them probably came to the
mountains because of the mineral springs, the healing value
of which their medicine men understood. Further evidence
of their mountain life may be seen in the linear hiero-
gl3rphics which indicate higher intelligence than that in the
picture stories in stone along the Columbia. Strange as it
may appear, however, the origin of these hieroglyphic
o n /?/? o^
LINEAR HIEROGLYPHICS IN CASCADIA CAVE
now so ancient as to be almost obliterated — is as remark-
able to the oldest white inhabitants as to the Indians. Yet
the inscriptions, which are numerous, were so systematically
arranged as to suggest an account of some important event
or maybe a written code of ethics. Who the people were
1 Bones of grizzly bear broken for their marrow are in the pos-
session of George M. Geisendorfer, at Cascadia, Oregon, who ob-
tained them in the cave nearby. In this cave may be found many
evidences which remind one of the cave life of prehistoric England.
EPOCH V 239
that placed their dead in these mounds, or when the mounds
were built, is not known. But it is believed that the mounds
are so ancient that they may have been in use as retreats for
human beings long before the channels of the Willamette
and the Calapooia rivers had worn deep enough to prevent
the overflow of the lands during the wet season; also that
the mounds were built by a race that inhabited this country
before the Indians lived here; and it is suggested that in
some respects the system of worship of the people who built
the mounds was similar to that of the most ancient peoples
known to history.
Significance of Oregon Mounds. Because of numerous
points of resemblance, the mounds of Oregon and those of
the Middle States and France appear to belong to the same
system as the mounds of Mexico and the pyramids of Egypt.
All were modeled after the mounds or pyramids of some
country; and while it is commonly believed that the pyra-
mids of Egypt antedate the mounds of our continent, there
is on the contrary a possibility that the Oregon mounds ante-
date the pyramids of Egypt and the mounds of Europe and
Asia, and that the rest of the world are only emigrants from
America. Should the latter theory eventually become es-
tablished, it would lend color to the belief of Agassiz that
* 'First born among the continents, though so much later in
culture and civilization, America, so far as her physical his-
tory is concerned, has been falsely denominated the *New
World.* Hers was the first dry land lifted out of the waters,
hers the first shore washed by the ocean that enveloped all
the earth beside; and while Europe was represented only by
islands rising here and there above the sea, America already
stretched an unbroken line of land from Nova Scotia to the
*F'ar West'." The prehistoric burial mounds of Oregon
when sufficiently explored, may, therefore, prove valuable
in determining the relative ages of America and the grand
divisions of the Eastern Continent.
240
HISTORY OF OREGON
First Oregon High School. The Old Lincohi High
School of Portland, was the first building of that character
erected in Oregon. It was begun in 1663, and completed
two years later, but before this time there had been high
school instruction in Portland. Under the principalship of
John W. Johnson, who had much to do with framing the
original high school course of study in the State, and who
later became the first president of the University of Oregon,
work of high school grade had
been done in Portland as early
as 1869, with quarters on the
second floor of the Central
School building.
High School System Be-
comes Popular. The erection
of Lincoln^ High School was
opposed by many who believed
that secondary schools should .
not be supported by taxation.
But the high school system grew
in favor in Oregon until there
came to be eight high schools in
Portland, and one or more in
nearly every other city or
town in the State — all similar in
character to their predecessor.
Timely Appearance of the Lincoln School. Since the
establishment of Lincoln High School there have been more
great inventions than in any period of the same length in
the history of the world. So many inventions have been
made, and such numerous changes have followed that the
conditions under which we now live are pronouncedly dif-
ferent from those which prevailed when the first high school
'At the oulRet it was known as Portland Hifih School.
POETLAND HIGH SCHOOL, 1
EPOCH V 241
was established in Oregon. We may be said now to be liv-
ing in a new world of manifold inventions. Hence those
who were enabled to succeed without superior educational
advantages before the advent of this era of science would
find themselves laboring under disadvantages at the present
time; for the requirements have bcome so exacting that
they can be successfully met only by trained minds. It was
fortunate, therefore, that the system of popular education
which the alnna mater of Oregon high schools represents was
established so early in the history of our state, when second-
ary education was in danger of becoming the possession of
only the favored few.
University of Oregon Law School Organized. The
Portland law department of the University of Oregon was
organized by Richard H. Thornton in 1 884, with a two-year
course of three lectures per week; and in 1906 the course
of study was extended to three years. In pursuance of
a policy of consolidation of the different departments of the
University, the board of regents (April 1915) decided to
discontinue the law school at Portland and maintain a law
department on the campus at Eugene. Here a three-year
course is given. As two years of college work is required
for entrance, the student must perform at least five years of
college work before obtaining the degree of Bachelor of
Laws; and six years of work is required for the degree of
Doctor of Laws.
Northwest College of Law. Upon the removal of the
University Law Department to Eugene, several members of
the former law faculty, with other able lecturers guid prac-
titioners, continued to maintain a law school at Portland un-
der the nsmie of the Northwest College of Law, offering
practically the same course of study as given by the Uni-
versity.
Salem Indian Training School. Location and Name,
Salem Indian Training School is located at Chemawa, which
is five miles north of the Oregon capital. The school was
%
EPOCH V 243
first established by Captain M. C. Wilkinson, U. S. A., at
Forest Grove in 1880, and known as the Forest Grove In-
dian Institute. But in 1883, it was moved to the present
site, which was nsmied Chemawa, an Indian nsmie meaning
**Our Happy Home" ; and the school was officially called the
Salem Indian Training school. For a number of years in
honor of President Harrison, it was officially known as the
Harrison Indian Institute. It is now officially known as the
Salem Indian Training School.
The tract of land on which Salem Indian Institute
was built consists of 430 acres, which at that time was a wil-
derness. However, the place has been made beautiful by
suitable improvements, among which are fifty buildings
which have been erected for the comfort of the Indian
school children and the employees of the institution. The
school has an attendance of about 600 or 700 pupils from
nearly every western state and Alaska. It is supported en-
tirely by the government, which makes an annual appropria-
tion of more than $100,000 for its maintenance. The Sa-
lem Indian Training School offers an academic course cov-
ering ten years. Instruction is given in farming, fruit-culture,
dairying, blacksmithing, tailoring, harness-making, carpen-
try, mechanical drafting, music, painting, dress-making and
domestic science.
This Training School is Recognized as one of the six
great Indian schools in our nation. Such is its importance
that the institution has already been semi-officially visited
by three presidents of the United States; Benjamin Harrison,
in 1891, Theodore Roosevelt in 1904. and William H. Taft
in 1909.
A Noted Railway Bridge. The earliest bridges of Ore-
gon were built of wood. Many of these have been replaced
by more durable bridges constructed of steel and stone.
Among the old wooden bridges now in use is the railway
bridge which spans the Willamette River at Albany, Oregon.
This bridge is distinguished from other bridges by its draw^
244 HISTORY OF OREGON
which is said to be the longest wooden draw in existence
used for railway purposes, its length being 260 feet. The
bridge was constructed in 1 886, and was practically rebuilt
in 1910. The draw, known as the Double Howe Truss
Swing Draw, was operated first by hand power, but now it is
operated by an electric motor. In connection with this
bridge it is interesting to note that it belongs to that branch
of the Southern Pacific railway which was the first to extend
to the Oregon Sea Coast. Originally it was called the Wil-
lamette Valley and Coast Railway, then it was known as
the Oregon Pacific, then as the Oregon 6c Eastern, then as
the Corvallis &l Eastern, until it became a part of the South-
ern Pacific system. The road was projected by T. Egenton
Hogg associated with New York and English capitalists, as
the beginning of a transcontinental railway system with river
steamboats, ocean liners, and lateral railroads as feeders.
The railway bridge at Albany was built as a part of one of
the biggest American undertakings; and it is possible that
in the course of time it may fulfill the fondest dreams of its
promoters.
EPOCH V
245
GOVERNOR SYLVESTER PENNOYER
JuuHUry 12, 1887 — January 14, 1895
The adminUtration of Governor Sylvester Pennoyer,
lasting from January, 1867, until January 1695, was sen-
sational to a degree that attracted national attention. He
was the head of the state government during four sessions
of the legislature. These sessions were overwhelmingly
dominated by the Republican party. Though meeting with
constant opposition, he enjoyed the conditions thus pre-
sented. In his inaugural address Governor Pennoyer de-
clared that the Supreme Court of the State had no right to
pronounce an act of the legislature unconstitutional, and
asserted that the registry law, enacted at the previous ses-
sion of the legislature, but declared unconstitutional by the
Supreme Court, was,
nevertheless, "in full force
and effect." Assuming
that President Cleveland
was transcending his au-
thori^ when he advised
the Governor what course
to pursue as to the labor
troubles that were threat-
ened in Oregon, he sent
a telegram to the Presi-
dent to the effect, that "if
you will attend to your
business 1 will attend to
mine". He carried his re-
sentment so far that in
1894, he declared
Thanksgiving day a week ooverhok sylvestbb PEimoYiiE
later than the date proclaimed by President Cleveland, thus
giving Oregon two Thanksgiving days in that month.
Governor Pennoyer's administration was notable for
246 HISTORY OF OREGON
the manner in which he persistently followed a path that had
hitherto been in a measure avoided; yet he was a popular
Governor. He was born on July 6, 1831, in Tompkins
County, New York, and graduated from the Harvard law
school in 1854. He came to Portland in 1855; and after
teaching school for several years edited the* 'Oregon Herald*'
a democratic newspaper, for nearly two years, and then en-
gaged in the lumber business which he followed until his
death, which occurred at his home in Portland, May 30,
1902.
The U. of O. School of Medicine. The Medical D&*
partment of the University of Oregon was established at
Portland in 1887, by a charter from the Regents of the Uni-
versity. The first building was a small frame structure lo-
cated at what is now the comer of Marshall and Twenty-
third Streets, on the grounds of the Good Samaritan Hos-
pital. It consisted of a single lecture room on the ground
floor, and an anatomical laboratory, on the upper floor. In
1890, the present site was purchased, and the building was
transferred to it and remodeled. The present building was
erected in 1892. It is a three story structure and contains
well-equipped laboratories, a convenient dissecting room,
two large lecture rooms, and the Medical School library.
The Merger of the Medical Department of the Willam-
ette University, the first foundation of the kind in the State
of Oregon, with the Medical Department of the University
of Oregon, was eflFected by mutual and friendly arrange-
ments on the first day of September, 1913. Under the
terms of the merger the Medical Department of the Wil-
lamette University retired permanently from the field of
medical education and transferred its entire enrollment,
numbering 40, to the State School in the city of Portland,
and arreoigements were effected so that the students of the
EPOCH V 247
Willamette University will graduate during the course of the
following three years, and shall receive degrees indicative of
the merger of the two schools, and the alumni of both
schools will be consolidated under the Medical Department
of the University of Oregon, which becomes at once the
only school of medicine in the Pacific Northwest. This is the
largest territory in the United States that is served by but one
medical school.
Mt. Jefferson. First Ascended in 1888. One of the
most beautiful of the snow-capped mountains in Oregon,
MT. JEFFEKSON
and certainly the most difficult to climb, is Mt. Jefferson, lo-
cated on the summit of the Cascade Range in the north-east-
em part of Linn County. According to the most recent
measurements Mt. Jefferson has an altitude of 10,523' feet.
It was the last of the snowy peaks in the Northwest to sur-
render its topmost point to the explorations of the mountain
climber. On the apparent summit of Mt. Jefferson is a pin-
nacle approximately 700 feet in height that thwarted the
"iMineral Reaourcas of Oregon," Vol. 2, No. 1.
248 HISTORY OF OREGON
smibition of prospective climbers until August 12, 1888,
when Ray L. Farmer and E. C. Cross, both of Salem, Ore-
gon, reached its apex. Since then others have climbed Mt.
Jefferson, but they are few as compared with those who
have reached the summits of the other noted mountains of
Oregon. Both the Clackamas and Santiam rivers find their
sources near the base of Mt. Jefferson, which presents a
formidable exterior of sheer precipices, forbidding ridges of
snow, dangerous crevasses and jagged promontories that ex-
cite admiration and awe. The region about the mountain
abounds in scores of lakes surrounded by dense forests and
vast glaciers which have withstood the slow movement of
the ap^e*. The wintry storms pile up huge ever-chansring
snow drifts, which annually obliterate the route traversed bv
mountain climbers. Owing to its difficult accessibility this
reeion affords a splendid place for huntinc: such vnld ani-
mals as abound in the Northwest. This with many weird
attractions, makes Mt. Jefferson one of the most popular re-
sorts on the Pacific coast for those who love to encounter
Nature where the hand of man hath not defiled.
Mt Jefferson in the Ice Age. Ira A. WilHamsS Profes-
sor of Ceramic Engineering, Oregon Agricultural College.
(1918), tells us that **Mt. Jefferson appears to have been
a srathering ground for snows that in the ages past doubtless
fell much more copiously than now. Surely the mountain
must have been a great white dome so deeply snow-cov-
ered that scarce a point of rock showed through. From its
sides great glaciers moved in all directions; far out to the
north and south along the summit, as well as down the
range slopes to the east and west did the sheets of moving
ice spread, occupying the river canyons and grinding away
iVol 2, No. 1, "Mineral Resources of Oregon".
EPOCH V
249
at every surface over which they passed. We are very cer-
tain that the ice from Jefferson actually met and joined
with that from other high peaks that were at the same
time areas of snow accumulation from which glaciers ema-
nated. An abundance of evidence is found that the entire
Cascade summit from Mt. Jefferson southward for more
than one hundred miles was not only entirely ice-covered,
but the rocks eversrwhere along it were so profoundly eroded
that we can gain little conception of the amount of rock ma-
terial thus carried away."
The Three Sisters. The Three Sisters' region is that
THE TEBEE 8I8TEB8 (From D«*clintes CinyaD)
section of the summit portion of the Cascade range which is
located essentially midway between the Columbia river and
250 HISTORY OF OREGON
the south boundary of Crater Lake National Paric It may
be reached from Eastern and Western Oregon by way of
the McKenzie road. The Three Sisters, which form the
principal attraction of this region and which might be ap^
propriately called Faith« Hope, and Charity, are usually
referred to sis North Sister, Middle Sister, and South Sister.
*The altitude of North Sister is 10,067 feet; Middle Sister,
10,039 feet; and South Sister, 10,351 feet South and
Middle Sister exhibit a comparatively smooth cone-shaped
outline, while the profile of North Sister is notched, its cliffs
are jagged and steep, and its general appearance pyramidaL
Her sides have been deeply dug out, and her former out-
lines so largely obliterated that we have litde conception
of how lofty a mountain North Sister originally was. It
takes only another glance at the other members of this
group to tell us at once that it is quite greater in age than the
other two peaks. — **Mineral Resources of Oregon," Vol. 2,
No. 1.
Lafayette Seminary. Lafayette Seminary was opened
for the reception of students in the old country court-house
at Lafayette (1889), with Dr. W. C. Kantner in charge.
The Seminary continued for a term of eleven years, during
which diplomas were issued to sixty persons who had gradju-
ated from courses of study that compared favorably with
those of collegiate institutions in the state. In 1900 nego-
tiations were begun with the trustees of LaCreole Academic
Institute of Dallas, Oregon, which resulted in the union of
the two institutions at Dallas under the incorporate name of
LaCreole Academy and Dallas College.
Chair of Houi^old Economy Established. The chair
of Household Economy was established at the Oregon Agri-
cultural College in the year
1 889. Doctor Margaret
Snell, of Oakland, Califor-
nia, was appointed to fill the
position. This and the de-
partments of agriculture and
mechanical engineering were
for a number of years the
three principal departments
offering scientific courses
available for the student
The college catalogue stated
that only one-third of the stu-
dents were to be women.
This ruling, however, "was
not maintained, and the nu-
merical restriction was re-
moved.
There Were Forty-four Women Students in the only
course offered to them at that time. Four hundred dollars
was set aside by the board of regents to equip and maintain
the department. As most of the women were from the
email towns and rural districts, it was directed that every-
thing in the department should be of the simplest nature,
in order that there might be no dissatisfaction by contrast
when the students returned to their homes. By a strategic
movement of the head of the department, plated knives,
forks and spoons took the place of iron ones and colored
napery and dishtowels were replaced by white.
The Euipment Was Limited, but there was abundance
of spirit and interest, and there came to be a growing respect
in the minds of the students for the quiet hearthstone. The
subjects taught were cooking, sewing, general and special
nOOTOB HABOABET SHBLL
252
HISTORY OF OREGON
hygiene, millinCTy, nursing and emergency lectures. This
department of the college work — the first of its kind on the
Pacific Coast — soon became very popular, attracting stu-
dents from all parts of the Northwest. "As the thoughts
of men are widened by the process of the sun," so it was
here. The department of Household Economy developed
into one of the schools of the College. The school at pres-
ent offers four courses for graduation; viz: Household Sci-
ence, Household Art, Household Administration, and Home
Economics Education.
First School of Mechanic Arts. To learn a trade in
the early days of Oregon one was required to serve an ap-
prenticeship of three years. During this time the apprentice
was provided with the nec-
I essaries of life, but his time
I belonged to his master;
I hence ordinarily he receiv-
I ed litde or no school train-
I ing during this period. Yet
I under our system of gov-
1 ernment that mechanic was
I to be an elector, possibly an
I officer of the law who re-
I quired such a training as
ichools offered. There
were many good schools,
I but they did not provide for
anual training. Proceed
he might, the average
DEAH OBANT A. covELL youth was, therefore, con-
fronted with a dilemma; for on the one hand there was
trade learning writh little or no schooling, ^hile on the other
hand there was schooling without trade learning. This situa-
tion was significant also for the reason that men had com« to
EPOCH V 253
believe that the mind grows so long as the hand is used in-
telligently. To aid in meeting the demand for a course of
instruction which included a liberal education and manual
training, the department of Mechanics and Mechanical En-
gineering was established in the Oregon Agricultural College
in 1889 under the supervision of Professor (now Dean)
Grant A. Covell, a native of Pennsylvania. At first the \r>
struction was given in a small two-story brick building, which
with the present administration building, was the onlv school
bulding on the campus. For a number of vears the Depart-
ment of Mechanics in the Oregon Agricultural College was
the only one of the kind in the Pacific Northwest. The De-
partment gradually developed into a school of Mechanical,
Electrical and Civil Engineering; and now Mechanics and
Mechanical Engineering are taught in many of the leading
colleges and secondary schools throughout the region once
called the Oregon Country.
Oreigoii State Training School. Its Purpose. The
Oregon State Training School was established in 1 89 1 , being
opened in November of that year, for the confinement, dis-
cipline, education, employment, and reformation of delin-
quent and incorrigible boys betw^een the ages of ten and
eighteen years. Boys are sentenced to the care of the school
until they are twenty-one years old, but, at the discretion of
the board of control, may be paroled, after one year, as a
reward for good behavior.
The School is Located about five miles southeast of Sa-
lem, on the Southern Pacific railroad, on a farm of 500 acres,
of which about half is under cutlivation. All the work on
the farm is done by the boys, under the supervision of an
expert agriculturist. Also, the boys make their own clothes
and shoes, and do all the cooking and laundering for the
school, under the supervision of the instructors. They at-
tend school one-half day and work at their trade the other
\
254 HISTORY OF OREGON
half. The manual training equipment is one of the best in
the state, and is in charge of an expert manual training
teacher. There is also a well equipped machine shop, in
charge of an experienced engineer. The school is managed
in harmony with the public schools, the same textbooks and
studies being used. The school hsts a large g3rmnasiiim and
two ball grounds, the play side of the boy's life being con-
sidered along with the educational and industrial. — "Oregon
Blue Book.**
Australian Ballot Adopted. For several years there
had been complaints of corruption at the polls, and many
people believed there was reason therefor. Hence the Aus-
tralian ballot was adopted at the legislative session of 1 89 1 ,
which radically changed the manner of voting.
Office of Attorney General. Unlike that of many
other states in the Union the constitution of Oregon made no
provision for an Attorney General. This was not an over-
sight by its framers, but was the result of a consistent policy
which limited the state officers to the smallest possible num-
ber. During the first years of statehood the need of this
official was not especially urgent, but as population increased
and public business became greater in volume, situations
frequently arose when opinions on intricate legal questions
coming before state officials for decision were necessary.
Efforts had been made, but failed, in several sessions of the
legislature to provide for such legal adviser; but a law to
that effect was passed in 1891, and under its provisions Gov-
ernor Sylvester Pennoyer appointed Hon. George E. Cham-
berlain as the first Attorney General. In 1892 Mr. Cham-
berlain was elected by the people to serve for the ensuing
two years and until his successor should be elected for the
full term of four years. At present the Attorney General's
office renders an average of 250 opinions each year on com-
plicated matters which come before the different branches
of the state government. These opinions of the Attorney-
General do not have the binding force of judicial decisions
EPOCH V 255
but serve as a guide to public officers in the performance of
their duties and contribute in large measure to the more
rapid and satisfactory transaction of public business.
- First Oregon Irrigatioii Law Passed. It is easy to trace
the management of our water resources, including irrigation,
to California. In the days of '49, water rights were initiated
by discovery, and there was no law governing the use of
water, nor was there a definite policy or understanding as to
whether the Federal Government or the states controlled
the water. In early days the same general policy relative to
water rights was followed in Oregon as in California ; and in
most cases water rights w^ere so closely associated with min-
ing rights that county records frequently have one volume
containing both mining locations and water locations. In
1 89 1 , the first state irrigation law was passed. That law
provided for the appropriation of water by the posting of
a notice at the proposed point of diversion, but its appli-
cation was limited to public service companies.
Pacific College. The first settlers of Chehalem Val-
ley provided a log school house with rough blocks for seats.
There being no high school in 1885, members of that reli-
gious body called Friends, in an effort to develop sons of
the William Penn type, organized Friends Pacific Academy,
which was attended by a large number of young people,
many of whom were from distant localities. Although an
academy in name, the institution did considerable work of
college grade. Hence the demand for higher training be-
came so apparent that Pacific College was incorporated in
1 89 1. Suitable buildings were erected at Newberg and
twelve years later an endowment fund of $100,000 was
raised, which amount has since been materially increased by
contributions.
Oregon Soldier's Hon^e. Emulating the example of
other states, Oregon enacted a law in 1893 providing for
256
HISTORY OF OREGON
the construction of a state home for needy soldiers who had
served in any of the various wars in which the United States
has been engaged. The law provided for the appointment
by the Governor of five trustees who should have control of
its management, but in a few years it was discovered that
OREOON SOLDIEKS' HOME
this gave rise to differences of opinion and resulting friction.
This difficulty was removed by the amendment to the law in
1899 which abohshed the board of trustees and placed the
management of the Home in the control of the Governor,
with a Commandant appointed by him in charge. Since this
change, there has been no trouble at that institution, and the
purpose of its existence is fully justified.
The State Piirchaaed 40 Acres of Land within two
miles of Roseburg, and 25 acres are in a high state of cul-
HISTORY OF OREGON 25 7
tivation. A large share of the foodstuffs consumed at the
Home is produced on this land, thus materially reducing the
cost of maintenance. A number of cottages have been pro-
vided by the State, and such soldiers as have wives are per-
mitted to maintain homes. The climate of Roseburg is
especially pleasant the entire year, and this contributes to
the comfort of the veterans who served their country in the
troublesome times in the past. Indian War veterans, and
soldiers who served in the Spanish war and are in need, are
eligible to admission to the Home. The number of soldiers
at the Home at this time is 1 89.
Largest Western Chautauqua. Some enterprising citi-
zens in 1 893, established the pioneer Chautauqua of Oregon,
at Ashland. The idea im-
mediately became popu-
lar, and many new Chau-
tauqua assemblies came
into existence throughout
the state and prospered.
In the same year a Chau-
tauqua reading circle was
organized in the parlors of "^^BflJUlife ^"'"^^^' ^ r^ ^J i ^
Mrs. Eva Emery Dye, the
author, at Oregon City. Gladstone auditorium
This reading circle developed (1894) into an assembly at
Gladstone Park, which came to be the permanent meeting
place. It was named the Willamette Valley Chautauqua,
and July was appointed as the time for the annual sessions.
Situated between Portland and Oregon City, Gladstone Park
is favorably located to accommodate the crowds that seek
intellectual diversion. In 1917, a thousand automobiles —
many from Eastern Oregon, and from other states — en-
tered the grounds for the change of scenery and environ-
ment, as well as for the remarkable programs presented by
the best American talent. Hence the Willamette Valley
258 HISTORY OF OREGON
Chautauqua has grown to be the largest Chautauqua west of
the Rocky Mountains. Many enthusiastic towns have taken
up the Chautauqua movement, and others will follow, until
all Oregon can listen to the greatest speakers and the sweet-
est singers.
Reading Clubs in Oregon. Their Importance. Per-
haps no movement inspired the club work in Oregon more
effectually than did the Chautauqua Reading Circle, origi-
nated by Bishop John H. Vincent, who, having been denied
the benefit of a college course, made it his life-work to place
collegiate privileges in the curriculum of common, daily life.
Bishop Vincent contended that school life does not end "with
youth, but continues as long as life lasts. The Chautauqua
Reading Circle modeled somewhat after the ancient acad-
emy of Greece, opened to the masses all the doors of art,
literature, science and general information.
Their Groiuth. Out of Chautauqua Reading Circles
in Oregon grew wider circles. Women, thirsting for knowl-
edge, read and discussed Ruskin, Tennyson, Shakespeare;
and out of this practice grew the Woman's Club of today
with its thousands of members. At first the Woman's club
began purely as a study club, but out of the transient
glimpses of masters of literature grew the idea of civic or-
ganization, until the original woman's club developed into a
civic club devoted to local improvement, and later with its
resultant benefits creating a world of uplifting influences to
state and national betterment. Then followed the franchise
not yet in its zenith. Not the least result of the old-time
reading club is the so-called feminist movement which was
inspired by the desire to know, to be, and to do.
The Oregon Mazamas. One of the most popular and,
indeed, one of the most useful organizations in Oregon is
that known as **The Mazamas." As its name indicates, its
purpose is to foster the love of mountain climbing and, in-
HISTORY OF OREGON
259
cidentally, to be of service in exploring for historical ends the
many beautiful snow-capped peaks of the state. This or-
ganization is the successor of the Oregon Alpine club which
was instituted in September, 1 88 7, whose purpose was
not only to stimulate mountain climbing but to gather speci-
mens for exhibition in its museum. The Mazamas were or-
ganized on the summit of Mount Hood on the afternoon of
July 19. 1894. by 193 persona— 155 men and 38 ^
the Reverend Earl M. Wilbur as temporary president and
Mr. F. C. Little as temporary secretary. Arrangements had
been made for a banquet to be held on the summit and the
party had divided in two sections, one to climb from the
south side of the mountain and the other from the north.
The banquet was held and the organization effected. A
260
HISTORY O FOREGON
red fire that burned at night was seen in the Willamette
Valley in spite of the prevailing storm. Tar was burned on
some of the lower points of the mountain and three carrier
pigeons were released bearing messages.
Because the Rocky Mountain Goat, or Mazama, is
regarded as the surest footed mountain climber of the ani-
mal creation, the name "Mazama" suggested by Mr. Louis
B. Aiken, of Portland, was adopted as appropriate for the
organization. None but real mountain climbers are eligi-
ble for membership. Its efforts have beeen largely con-
tributory to a more general knowledge of the topography
of our beautiful mountains and forests. Each year it selects
some mountain for its annual trip. Its explorations include
the states of Washington and California as well as our
home state.
Dr. William C. McKay.
Among the notable deaths in
1893 was that of Dr. William
C. McKay, of Pendleton. Ore-
gon. He was bom at Fort
George, now within the city
limits of Astoria, March 18,
1824. His grandfather, Al-
exander McKay, a partner of
John Jacob Astor, was lost
in the"Tonquin"disBster north
of Cape Flattery in 1811.
His grandmother, who was a
descendant of the Chipevra
tribe, became the wife of Doc-
Da. wiLLiAu o. McKAY tor John McLoughlin, early in
1616. His father was Thomas McKay, and his mother was
a daughter of Chief Comcomly of the Clatsop Indians. Ho
was a pupil of John Ball at Fort Vancouver, in November.
1832. In 1838 he entered Fairfield College, Herkimer
EPOCH V. 261
County, N. Y., where he completed a course in medicine and
surgery. Doctor McKay's medical practice extended from
Pendleton to The Dalles. His knowledge of Indian
character and language enabled him to become an efficient
officer of the government as an interpreter and scout. He
died at Pendleton, January 2, 1893.
262
HISTORY OF OREGON
GOVERNOR WILLIAM P. LORD
January 14, 189S — January 9, 1899
William P. Lord was inaugurated Governor of Oregon
on January 1 6, 1 893, but the business of the legislature then
in session was largely interfered with by a "dead-lock" in the
election of a United States Senator. The second term of
Hon. J. N. Dolph had ex-
pired and his candidacy
for re-election was bitterly
opposed by a minority of
the members who be-
longed to the same party
as himself. The contest
was continued until the
last minute before ad-
journment, when the name
of Hon. George W, Mc-
Bride was presented and
his election as United
States Senator followed.
Governor Lord was
born in Dover, Delaware,
'. WILLIAM p. LOBD on July 1, 1839, and
graduated from Fairfield College, New York, in 1860. He
served in the Civil War under General Lew Wallace and was
admitted to the bar in New York in 1866; came to Oregon
in I 668, 'was elected state senator from Marion County in
1878, and a member of the supreme court in 1880. Gover-
nor Lord served as a member of that body until elected Gov-
ernor in June. 1 894. He died in San Francisco, February
II, 1911.
Eugene Bible University. Eugene Bible University.
first known as the Eugene Divinity School, was established
by the Christian Church in 1 895, for the training of ministers
and other Christian workers in the western states. It was
built adjacent to the University of Oregon, with which it CO-
EPOCH V. 263
operates in matters concerning instruction. The school was
located in the West because the management was convinced
that all things being considered, westem-tredned men would
be better equipped to lead western churches than would
those educated in a different environment. That the Eugene
Bible University steadily progressed from the outset may be
inferred from the fact that on May 3, 19 1 6, the institution
closed a successful campaign for a quarter million dollar
endowment. Hence, the total net assets of the school, in-
cluding endowment fund properties, and current expense
fund amounts to $383,000. Nearly all the graduates choose
ministerial, evangelistic, or educational work in America or
in foreign lands.
Obstnictions 0£Fered to Selection of U. S. Senator.
Legislature Fails to Convene. When the legislature met in
January, 1897, the senate promptly organized, but the
house failed to secure a quorum and did not organize for
business at any time. The purpose of the dissenting minor-
ity in not taking the oath of office was to prevent the re-
election of Senator John H. Mitchell and the constitutional
limit for the session of the legislature expired without the
election of a Senator or any kind of legislation.
Governor Lord Appointed Hon. H. W. Corbett to fill the
vacancy thus created in the United States Senate; but that
body after extended deliberation refused to seat him, be-
cause the legislature, though it had had opportunity to do so,
had failed to elect a Senator and the Governor was not em-
powered to fill the vacancy by appointment. An extra ses-
sion, of the legislature was called to convene in October,
1 898, at which time Hon. Joseph Simon was chosen United
States Senator to fill the unexpired term.
The Battleship "Oregon." Every Oregonian is proud of
the battleship bearing the name of this State. This magnifi-
cent vessel, which did splendid service in the Spanish-
American war, was built by the Union Iron Works of San
Francisco. She distinguished herself in the record voyage
264
HISTORY OF OREGON
made from Puget Sound to Sand Key, Florida, in the Spring
of 1898. Needed by the Government to assist in destroy-
ing the Spanish fleet in Guba, the "Oregon," commanded by
Captain Charies E. Qark, left Puget Soimd on March 6,
San Francisco on March 19, and arrived at Sand Key on
May 26, a distance of 18. 1 12 miles, equal to two-thirds of
the distance around the globe. The battleship made 4,726
miles of the trip without a stop for any purpose. To this day
this is the best distance record ever made by a battleship.
The Oregon arrived at its destination, as its officers offidally
reported, "without a loose bolt or screw out of order;" at
By courtesy „l Haruer Brolbera, New York.
UNITED STATES BATTLE-SHIP "OREOON"
the beginning of the battle of Santiago; and had the honor
of firing the first shot in the contest which sealed the fate of
the Spanish navy. The engines ^ere I 1,037 horse-povrer,
and while larger ships have since beeen built and the "Ore-
gon" is of a make now discarded, no modem ship has yet
equalled its splendid record made during a naval crisis. At
the launching of the battleship "Oregon," Joaquin Miller
wrote: "Columbia in his pride, will greet
The Boadicea of our fleet;
And from embattled telgtte the voice
Of cannon make the deep rejoice,
And festal sunshine gleam upon
The green clad hiiie of Oregon."
if Oregon
County,
EPOCH V.
GOVERNOR THEODORE T. GEEK
January 9, 1899 — January 14, 1903
Theodore T. Geer is the only native
to become her Governor, He
Oregon on March 12, 1851,
and educated in Willamette
University. He was a farmer,
having followed that vocation
until elected to the Governor'
ship at the age of 47 years.
He served as a member of
the house of representatives
in the Oregon legislature from
Marion County in the ses-
sions of IS80, 1S89, 1891.
and 1893. Mr. Geer was
elected speaker of the house
in 1891. In 1696, he was
chosen one of the electors on
the Republican ticket and car-
ried the vote of Oregon to
Washington, D. C, as the
State's official messenger. In 1898, Mi
nated by acclamation in the state Republi
Governor, and v
opponent was Wi
tive and state senator from Malheur and Baker Coundcs.
An interesting story connected with Governor Geer's nomination
published In the newapapera was to the effect that he was plow-
ing on his farm when he first heard the news of his nomination.
The truth Is that he was engaged with his neighbora in improving
the roada, with shovel and spade, when the school children re-
turning home from Macleay' — hia country post orCice — came shout-
ing down the road that "T. T. Geer has been nominated for Gov-
ernor." The shouts were heard before the children were in sight.
Thus did Mr. Geer first receive news of his nomination.
Geer was nomi-
.n convention for
ted by a majority of 10.000. His
R. King, who had served as a represents-
266
HISTORY OF OREGON
Or^on State Flower. At a meeting of the Oregon
Horticultural Society at Newberg in 1 890, on the motion of
George H. Himes, Dr. J. B. Pilkington and E. W. Ham-
mond, both well known botanists, were appointed a commit-
tee to nominate a State Flower. That committee reported at
the annual meeting of the Society at Hood River, July 18,
1892, suggesting several flowers, among them the Oregon
Grape. Then, upon the motion of Mr. Himea, the Oregon
Grape was adopted. Through the efforts of the State Fed-
eration of Woman's Clubs of Oregon this choice was con-
firmed by the Legislative
Assembly of 1899.
The Oregon Grape (Ber-
beris Aquifolium) is one of
the prettiest native shrubs of
the Northwest. Oregon
grape thrives in the moun-
tains and in timbered dis-
tricts along valley streams.
Its rugged evergreen foliage
resembles that of the holly,
which adds cheer to the land-
scape particularly throughout
the winter. In springtime it
illumines the scenery with
OREGON GRAPE j^inty blossoms of yellow
from which pretty berries of deep blue and bright purple
grow, maturing in summer and autumn. Of all the flow-
ers in the State probably none is more common to the
haunts of the American eagle than is the Oregon Grape.
Its characteristics, habitat and popularity especially fit it
to be the State Flower of Oregon.
Law Governing Water Supply for Electric Power.
In 1 899, a law was passed with reference to the appropria-
tion of water for electric purposes. The act provided for the
EPOCH V.
267
appropriation of water by the posting of a notice at the pro-
posed point of diversion, but its application was limited to
public service companies.
Oregon Historical Society. The Oregon Historical
Society was organized December 1 7, 1 898. The officers
are (1918): President, Frederick V. Holman; vice presi-
dent) Leslie M. Scott; secretary and editor. Professor F. G.
Young; treasurer, Ladd & Tilton's Bank; official custodian
and curator, George H. Himes. It is located in the Port-
land Auditorium Building. All citizens of Oregon in good
standing are eligible to active membership in the Oregon
Historical Society by paying a small fee; and non-residents
of Oregon may become honorary members by complying
with certain requirements. The principal sources of sup-
port of the society are from the State, from a private en-
268 HISTORY OF OREGON
dowment, from membership dues, and from the sale of
publications — the leading one being the Oregon Historical
Quarterly, which is sent to the principal libraries and his-
torial societies in the United States. The object of the
Oregon Historical Society is to gather information relating
to the history of Oregon and the United States; and for
the accomplishment of this purpose to explore archaeo-
logical deposits, acquire pioneer records and other pub-
lications and manuscripts, perpetuate geographic and his-
torical Indian names, \preseTve Indian ^traditions, main-
tain a gallery of historical portraiture and an ethnological
and historical museum, encourage the study of history and
diffuse information relative to the history of Oregon. As
a result of the work of the society thus far, newspapers,
psunphlets, books, manuscripts and relics appertaining to
pioneer and Indian life for more than a hundred years
have been collected. The society headquarters have
come to be a veritable museum of Oregon antiquities
which are useful in developing a vital interest in the his-
tory and traditions of the State.
The Second Oregon. The Second Oregon U. S. Vol-
unteer Infantry gained national distinction for its achieve-
ments in the Spanish-American War. Yet mention here
can be made only of its earlier history. When President
McKinley on the 28th of April, 1898, called for one regi-
ment from this State, both the First and Second Oregon
regiments promptly reported at the Portland Armory for
duty. Since both regiments desired to go, and but one
could be accepted, * 'Governor Lord ordered a consolida-
tion of the two into one full regiment, selecting the best
men in each.** This selection resulted in forming a regi-
ment of unusually strong and well-equipped soldiers. The
new regiment was named the Second Oregon United States
Volunteer Infantry. Colonel Owen Summers of the origi-
EPOCH V. 269
nal Second Regiment was appointed Colonel, and Colonel
George Yoran of the First Regiment was appointed lieu-
tenant colonel. Upon arriving at the scene of action the
Second Oregon very fittingly bore a conspicuous part in
the surrender of Manila and the final extinction of Span-
ish authority in the Pacific Ocean. August 1 3, Colonel
Summers was ordered to place his nine companies aboard
the two vessels **Kwanchai'* and **Zafiro," and accompany
the troops designated to support Dewey's demonstration
from the Bay. By a chance, as it seemed, they were the
first to be ordered into the works. **A cer-
tain number of companies,** Lyman tells us
in his history of Oregon, **were desired for
this service, and the Second Oregon afford-
ing just that number, was selected.** As
landing was neared Colonel Summers ad-
vanced in a small boat, being the first to step
ashore. The regiment soon disembarked
and forming in order of march entered the
city. The Spanish gunners were still at their
cannon; all the Spanish troops — five thous-
and in number and fully armed, occupied
the walls of the citadel. But the Oregon
troops marched to their places, the citadel
was occupied, the Spanish flag was taken
down, and the Stars and Stripes run up^ ; and
the arrogant power of Spain, which had
domineered over half of the world and had punished as
pirates all that entered the Pacific, went down.
Return of the Second Oregon Regim^it. The Spanish-
American War was concluded during the first year of Gov-
ernor Geer*s term, and as the famous Second Oregon Regi-
ilt was G. W. Povey of Company L, Second Oregon, who raised
the American colors over Manila.
2 70 HISTORY OF OREGON
ment was the first to go to Manila it was the first to be mus-
tered out when the war ended. Governor Geer, accompan-
ied by his entire staff, met the regiment upon its arrival in
San Francisco and welcomed it home. A great demonstra-
tion was made in that city over the arrival of the Oregon
troops, and a banquet was tendered more than one thousand
soldiers, officers and invited friends; the local telegraph and
telephone companies extended free use of their facilities be-
tween San Francisco and the homes of the Oregon soldiers.
The troops were mustered out of the service at San Fran-
cisco three weeks later, and Governor Geer returned to the
state line and accompanied them home. Later he made a
special trip to Washington, D. C, to confer with the Secre-
tary of War, Elihu Root, about securing a cannon from
Manila for the purpose of using a part of it for making med-
als for the members of the Regiment. The cannon wais se-
cured, borings from it were made into medals, wbich were
distributed to the individual soldiers, and the cannon now
stands, mounted, on the grounds surrounding the capitol
building at Salem.
Initiative and Referendum. During the legislative ses-
sion of 1899 and again in 1901 an smnendment to the con-
stitution was passed providing for the initiation of laws by
the people and the referendum of laws passed by the legis-
lature to the people for their approval or disapproval. This
smnendment was submitted and ratified at the June election
in 1902 by a vote of 62,024 to 5668.
Site of the Champoeg Meeting Located. Governor
Geer was commissioned by the Oregon State Historical So-
ciety to locate the exact site on which the famous Champoeg
meeting was held on May 2, 1843; and on May 2, 1900,
with Hon. F. X. Matthieu and George H. Himes, Secretary
of the Historical Society, Governor Geer drove a stake on
the spot designated by Mr. Matthieu, who was the only sur-
'OCH V. 271
vivor of that celebrated gather-
ing. It was there that the begin-
ning of the government in
Oregon was made; and the or-
ganization instituted on that day
was the Brat civil government
ev& attempted by Americans
west of the Rocky Mountains.
The legislature in 1 90 1 made
provision for the erection of a
monument on the site chosen;
the event was celebrated on
May 2, of that year, and the
monument dedicated in the
presence of several thousand
people gathered to pay homage
State Text Book ConunisHon Created. The session of
the legislature made provision
for the appointment of a
State Text Book Commission
whose duties were to select the
books to be used in the public
schools. Governor Geer se-
lected as the five members
of the commission the follow-
ing: H. W. Scott, chairman,
William M. Ladd, of Port-
land. William Colvig, of
Jacksonville, P. L. Camp-
bell, President of the Univer-
sity of Oregon, and C. A.
Johns, of Baker, r, x. matthieu
272
HISTORY OF OREGON
LaCreole Academy and Dallas College. LaCreole
Academy and Dallas College, located at Dallas, Oregon,
resulted from the union (1900) of LaCreole Academy
eind Lafayette Seminary. The school offered academic
and college courses, but was compelled to suspend opera-
tions (June, 1914) for lack of funds to meet the require'
ments of the Oregon standardization laws. The Oregon
conference of the Evangelical Church, desirous to con-
LMlk.
CHAHFOEO FIOHEEB MEMOEIAL BTJILDIMa
{See Fsge 271)
tinue the work done in part by LaCreole Academy and
Dallas College, elected a board of trustees (1916) for
the purpose of incorporating the Oregon Bible Training
College, which has since been located at Corvallia. The
school property at Dallas has been transferred to the Ore-
gon Bible Training College, and the trustees have procured
a suitable building and opened the Bible Training College
with a strong faculty and a comprehensive curriculum.
The Mays' Senatorial Law. The obstructions already
EPOCH V. 273
offered to the election of U. S. Senator had become so
flagrant a violation of the popular will that the people of
Oregon began to appreciate the necessity of some other
method of choosing their representatives in the U. S. Sen-
ate. Accordingly what was known as the Mays' Law was
passed by the legislature in 1901, the purpose of which wais
that candidates for the United States Senate might submit
their names to the people at the preceding general election
in order to determine the popular preference for that office.
In accordance with this law Ex-Governor Geer secured
the necessary signatures and announced his candidacy for
the Senate, and his name was placed on the ballot. He
received a majority of 12,070, but the following legislature,
in choosing the U. S. Senator ignored the popular vote.
This disregard of the popular will did much to kindle a sen-
timent that resulted in the initiation of the direct primary
law and * 'Statement No. 1," in the following administra-
tion.
Columbia University. Columbia University, of Port-
land, a boarding and day school for the Christian educa-
tion of boys and young men, was founded in 1901 by Arch-
bishop Christie. Since 1902 the institution has been owned
and conducted by the congregation of the Holy Cross, a
religious community of priests and brothers with the mother
house at Notre Dame, Indiana. The institution has a gram-
mar grade, a high school, and a college department.
The present Administration Hall was erected under the
auspices of the Methodist Episcopal Church in 1 89 1 . This
was the Portland University, which began to languish
after the panic of 1 893 and some years later closed its doors.
Columbia University is strictly Roman Catholic, but admits
students of other denominations and respects their con-
scientious beliefs.
Carey Irrigation Act Accepted by Oregon. In 1901,
the State of Oregon accepted the terms of the Carey Irri-
274
HISTORY OF OREGON
gation Act The acceptance of the Carey Act and the pas-
sage of the U. S. Reclamation Act in the following year
stimulated irrigation development. In the first two years
of operation under the Carey Act projects aggregating nearly
400,000 acres were initiated, and the investigations of the
U. S. Reclamation Service resulted in the beginning of con-
GAUHINQ AN
STKEAM rOK IKBIBATIOM
atruction work on the Klamath County and Umatilla pro-
jects in 1904 and 1906. Numerous private projects were
initiated and irrigation securities found ready sale, omng to
the fact that they carried d^f" interest, which was somewhat
higher than the interest on ordinary bonds.
Crater Lake. .4, Lake That Was Once a Mountain.
Crater Lake National Park was created by an act of
Congress approved May 22, I 902, It consists of 249 square
miles on the crest of the Cascade Range of mountains in
South-eastern Oregon. The principal attraction of this
national park is Crater Lake, which has been listed as one of
the six wonders of the Western Continent — the others being
the Grand Canyon of the Colorado, Yellowstone Park,
Niagara Falls, Mammoth Cave of Kentucky, and Yosemite.
Stephen T. Mather, Director U. S. National Park Service,
ORATE B LAKE
tells us that "although there are thousands of craters in this
country, some of which contain small lakes, there is but one
great caldera in the world and that contains Crater Lake."
, Crater Lake is, therefore, one of the most remarkable bodies
of water in the world. Originally it was not a lake, but
Mount Mazama, about 15,000 feet high — one of the great
Court.
HOmiT MAZAJtA BESTOBED
mountains of the Continent. Yet no human eye ever saw
Mount Mazama; for before the advent of man in what is
no^ called Oregon, all that portion of the mountain above
6,000 feet elevation disappeared leaving a vast smoking
caldron, v^hich gradually filled with ^ater to the depth of
2,000 feet; beautiful, sweet, and limpid. Crater Lake is five
and one-half miles in diameter — the surface being 6, 1 77 feet
iu
HISTORY OF OREGON
above aea level; while above it tower walls from 300 to
2,000 feet. Imagine a lake occupying the crater of this ex-
tinct volcano. From the dark gray walls that rim the crater,
one can look far down upon the water of unbelievable blue.
There can be seen Wizard Island, a more recent volcano.
which rises to a height of 845 feet above the water, and has
a crater of its own a hundred feet deep, and fiitcea hun-
dred feet in circumference. There can also be seen another
island — a mass of curiously carved lava called the Phantom
Ship — which is interesting because of its fancied resemblance
to a turreted battleship, and because of its peculiar coloring,
which in certain slants of light causes the image to disappear
— a phantom indeed.
Crater Lake was discovered by
a party of prospectors under John
W. Hillman, June 12, 1853. The
Federal Government is construct-
ing a system of roads through the
park under the name of "Miracle
Boulevard" that will encircle this
marvelous body of water, and will
be completed in 1919. It is pro-
posed to bore a tunnel a half mile
long through the crater rim so
that vehicles can convey visitors
between the summit and the lake
below.
Crater Lake Described by Joa-
quin Mill^. "Crater Lake? The
Sea of Silei "
forgotten so much else; besides Crater Laka Katlonal Fuk
I should like to let it alone, say nothing. It took such a hold
on my heart, so unlike Yosemite, Yellowstone, Grand Can-
yon, when first seen, that I love it almost like one of my own
family. But fancy a sea of sapphire set around by a com-
EPOCH V.
277
pact circle of the great grizzly rock of Yosemite. It does
not seem so sublime at first, but the mote is in your own eye.
It is great, great; but it takes you days to see how great. It
lies 2,000 feet under your feet, and as it reflects its walls so
perfectly that you can not tell the wall from the reflection in
the intensely blue water you have a continuous unbroken
circular wall of 24 miles to contemplate at a glance, all of
which lies 2.000 feet and seems to lie 4,000 feet below. Yet
so bright, so intensely blue is the lake, that it seems at times,
from some points of view, to rise right in your face."
CIcM LJte. Crater Lake, The Gulf of Mexico, The
Mediterranean Sea, and Clear Lake, under certain atmos-
CLEAK T.k-KT!
pheric conditions, are as blue as indigo. But the latter
body of water is famous for its clearness. The waters of
Clear Lake are crystalline, and they magnify objects until
a shining substance can be seen farther under water than
upon the dry land ; hence the lake is said to be clearer than
the air. One reason assigned for its remarkable clearness
2 78 HISTORY OF OREGON
is that it is fed by numerous springs which have been thor-
oughly filtered by the extended lava beds through which
they flow. Because of this filtering process the water is
very pure — ^so pure that tin and iron do not easily corrode in
it, and the more perishable substances, such as meat and
bread, are slow to decompose or decay in its depths. Clear
Lake, which is a mile or more in length and approximately
a half mile in width, is divided by a narrow passage into
the Upper Lake and the Lower Lake. Of the springs which
feed Upper Lake one is large enough to turn a small saw
mill, and its temperature in summer is but a few degrees
above the freezing point.
Source of Clear Lake. Whence these springs ori-
ginate has not yet been determined. But some of them
evidently are the seepage of Fish Lake, which in winter is
a deep lake and in the summer a fine meadow with a small
stream running through its entire length. This stream is a
continuation of the headwaters of the McKenzie. It sinks at
the lower end of the lake and it is probably one of the feed-
ers of Clear Lake. Also there ar6 numerous other Isikes in
that locality which have no visible outlet — among them being
Lava Lake,^ Big Lake, Lost Lake, and a score or more of
lesser lakes. It is probable that Clear Lake is fed by some
of these. The outflow of Clear Lake is the McKenzie River
which at this point is ordinarily about twice as large as the
South Santiam River at Cascadia in summer.
Location and Importance, Of the many beautiful moun-
tain lakes in Oregon perhaps none has a more attractive
setting than Clear Lake. This rare body of water is located
in Linn county, seventy-seven miles southeast of Albany
and seven miles from the summit of the Cascade Mountains.
Since many of the cities and towns of Western Oregon se-
cure their water supply from the Willamette River the State
Board of Health has for several years had under considera-
tion a project of inaugurating a water system which would
EPOCH V.
279
have its source in Clear Lake; thus in time insuring the pur-
est of water in ample quantity for domestic use.
Popular Resort. Like many other inland bodies of
water in Oregon, Clear Lake has a great depth, nobody yet
having visited it with a line of sufficient length to reach its
bottom. Many tree trunks standing upright — the ruins of an
ancient forest — may be seen far below its surface, dating
from the tragic upheavals of lava from Vulcan's mighty cal-
drons into the valley until the waters of a small stream were
held back and became a lake. Hence a record of the trees
would give us the age of the lake. The Three Sisters may be
STAHDDie TREE TBtTNES IN CLEAB lAEE
plainly seen from Clear Lake; and a half mile away may be
seen the McKenzie River plunging over a cliff sixty feet
in height. Its location so near the summit of the Cascade
Mountains together with other attractions destines Clear
Lake to be a popular resort for those who enjoy a mountain
journey involving all the hardship of a frontier outing. In
later years, when better mountain roads are constructed, no
280
HISTORY OF OREGON
doubt Oear Lake will be one of the most popular health re-
sorts in the Northwest.
Willamette Meteorite. Willamette Meteorite took its
name from the Willamette Valley in which it wju diacov-
ered. "It is the most interesting iron meteorite as to external
characteristics yet discovered, and it is the largest ever
found' in the United States." The meteor is apparently solid
with the exception of deep pits on the surface which it is be-
lieved are due to rust. It is 10 ft. long, b]/z ft. wide, and
4^ ft. high; its weight is 31.107 lbs. and it contains 9 1.55 7r
This
meteonte
was discovered in the
autumn of 1902 in the
woods 1 9 miles south of
Portland by two pros-
pectors who were
searching for the pre-
cious metals. The find-
ers at first supposed
they had come upon a
ledge of solid iron, but
the meteoric character
wilLAMBTTB METEOBiTE ^f ^jj^ ^^gg ^^^ ^^j^n as-
certained. Later one of the prospectors removed the mete-
orite to his ranch nearby. But the owners of the land on
which it had been found instituted suit for its recovery and
the contest was carried to the supreme court before the finder
relinquished his claim. In 1 906. the great specimen was pre-
sented to the American Museum of Natural History, in New
York, where it was given a prominent place at the entrance
of the building.
CHAPTER XIlI
231
GOVERNOR GEORGE E. CHAMBERLAIN
January 15, 1903 — February 28, 1909
George Earle Chamberlain was bom on a plantation
near Natchez, Mississippi, Jaunary 1, 1854. He graduated
in 1876 from Washington and Lee University with degrees
from the colleges of liberal arta and law; during the latter
part of that year Mr.
Chamberlain came to
Linn County, Oregon,
where he taught in a
country school and later
practiced law. He was
elected representative in
the Oregon legislature in
1880; was the first attor-
ney-general of Oregon,
serving in that office
I69l'5; inaugurated gov-
ernor in 1901, and again
in 1907; resigned in 1909
on his election as U. S.
Senator, and was re-
elected U. S. Senator in oov. GEonaE e7 chambeblain
1915. At present, (1918) he holds the responsible posi-
tion of Chairman of the Senate Committee on Military
Affairs.
Indian War Veterans. The recognition of the Indian
War Veterems for their valuable services in protecting the
lives and property of the early settlers in Oregon came late
in the history of the State — too late to be of any benefit to
many of those who volunteered to defend their firesides and
those of their companions. The territorial legislature of
1856 promised to aid, but did not comply with its agreement
and nothing tangible was done until the ses«on of 1903
made an appropriation of $100,000 for the purpose of pay-
282 HISTORY OF OREGON
ing each surviving veteran the sum of $2.00 for each day he
had performed actual service. To secure proof of such ser-
vice after the lapse of nearly fifty years was often difficult
and more than half of the old Indian fighters were dead, but
the relief that had finally come was gratefully accepted by
those who lived to receive it. In 1901, the legislature had
appropriated a sufficient sum to defray the expenses of
seven veterans, to be appointed by the Governor, who were
authorized to go to Washington, D. C, for the purpose of
inducing congress, if possible, to furnish relief to those sol-
diers, and in 1913 the legislature appropriated the sum of
$50,000 or so much thereof as might be necessary to be
used in paying all surviving veterans the sum of $2.00 for
each day they had used a horse in the volunteer service. In
the process of time Congress passed a law providing for the
payment of losses by Indian depredations, but in a major-
ity of cases, those who suffered died before there was any
opportunity to be benefited by it. There is now a state law
requiring each county court to levy a small tsix, the proceeds
of which are to be applied to the support of all indigent In-
dian War Veterans within the county; so that, after the
lapse of many years which marked a period of shameful in-
difference and broken promises, the state is in a measure
performing its duty to a class of patriotic citizens who vol-
unteered to risk their lives in the pioneer times for the pro-
tection of the country they were trying to reclaim from sav-
agery. The privileges of the Soldier's Home at Roseburg
are also extended to the Indian War Veterans, and several
of themi have availed themiselves of its protection and sup-
port.
The Oregon System. It was during the administration
of Governor George E. Chamberlain, that most of the fea-
tures that have come to be known as **The Oregon System"
were adopted by the people. Much dissatisfaction had
been aroused with what was known as the convention
method of selecting candidates for public offices, and the
EPOCH V. 283
desire for a direct nominating law had become pronounced.
Many flagrant violations of the popular wish in these mat-
ters had occurred, and the matter occupied a prominent
place in the list of questions that were generally discussed.
Statement No. 1. Another Important Chmige in
the Control of political nominations was made by the peo-
ple in 1 904, when they abolished the system of primary con-
ventions and initiated the Direct Primary Law, which in-
cluded what is known as ''Statement No. 1," by the terms
of which each candidate for the legislature was requested to
sign a statement to the effect that, if elected, he would sup-
port for the United States Senate such candidate for that
ofHce as had received the highest vote at the preceding elec-
tion. The law contained another statement namely, that the
candidate would not support such candidate unless he chose
to do so. The two statements were known as * 'Statement
No. 1" and Statement No. 2" but as the legislative candi-
dates were unwilling to court defeat they almost without
exception signed * 'Statement No. 1.*'
The Intention of **Statcment No. V* was to secure
the election of United States Senators by a direct vote of the
people* relying on members of the legislature to act upon
the instruction of the people, in advance of an amendment
to the federal constitution providing for their election by
popular vote.
This Plan Worked As Wa^ Intended, and at the elec-
tion in 1906 Jonathan Bourne, Jr., and Fred W. Mulkey were
so chosen by the people, and during the following session
of the legislature were elected United States Senators. In
1908, when his second term in the Governor's office had
but half expired. Governor Chamberlain was nominated by
the Democratic party as its candidate for the United States
Senate, and in November following he received a majority
vote at the hands of the people. The legislature which met
in January, though overwhelmingly Republican in both
houses, had almost unanimously subscribed to * 'Statement
284
HISTORY OF OREGON
No. 1," and promptly elected Governor Chamberlain the
democratic candidate to the Senate, and thus was inaugu-
rated a great reform that had baffled other states for many
decades.
The Oregon Supreme Court. The organizatioD and
growth of the Oregon Supreme Court affords a fine illus-
tration of the caution displayed by the fraraers of the state
constitution in the niatter of preventing the extension of
financial burdens upon the people.
That instrument provided for the
creation of four judicial districts
and four circuit judges who consti-
tuted the state Supreme Court, sit-
ting at stated intervals to pass
upon such cases as should be ap-
pealed to them from the lower
courts. When sitting as a Supreme
Court, however, no judge was per-
mitted to pass upon a case which
had come from his own court. In 1862 a separate judicial
district was created by the establishment of a fifth district
composed of the then five counties constituting Extern Ore-
gon, From that date until 1878 the state Supreme Court
consisted of the five circuit judges. This measure of econ-
omy was pursued until the year 1878 when, under a pro-
vision of the constitution authorizing such step ^hen the
white population should reach 200.000, a separate supreme
court was created, consisting of three members. Under a
requirement of this act Governor Thayer appointed James
J. Kelly, P. P. Prim and R. P. Boise as )ustice^ to serve
until the people should select their successors.
In 1907 the business of the Supreme Court had grown
to such proportions that three justices could not dispose of
it and the legislature provided for the appointment of two
commissioners to assist in the work. Two years later the
membership of the court was increased to five, and in 1 9 1 3
EPOCH V 285
two more were added. The decisions of the Oregon Su-
preme Court have high standing in all the states of the
Union for their conformity with legal interpretations of
fairness and justice.
The Whipping Post Law. The question of using the
whipping post as the most effective method for punishing
certain petty crimes had been suggested in various quarters
in Oregon since its earliest history, but it was always opposed
on the ground that it seemed unnecessarily cruel and was
really a relic of barbarism and slavery days. In 1905, how-
ever, the legislature amended the criminal law by providing
that in the case of the conviction of a man for beating his
wife the trial judge might, at his discretion, sentence him
to a certain number of lashes to be applied by the sheriff
of the county or marshal of the town in which the crime
was committed. The operation of the law did not, how-
ever, result in the benefit its advocates had hoped for, since
few judges fdt inclined to use the discretion as conferred
and imposed fines or imprisonment which was their priv-
ilege under the provisions of the law. The resort to whipping
as a punishment for wife-beating was not popular, however,
since in most cases the wives themselves interceded for the
convicted husbands, and the legislature in 1911 repealed
the provision, and public whipping was abolished after a
trial of six years.
Lewis and Clark Centennial Exposition. Nation-Wide
Celebration. Oregon had developed so rapidly that as the
century was nearing the close it was decided to commem-
orate the centennial of the Lewis and Clark Expedition with
a national celebration at Portland, Oregon, beginning June
I, 1905, and continuing four and one-half months. There-
upon a local corporation, with H. W. Corbett^ as president
in 1902, subscribed $500,000 to the enterprise, which was
iH. W. Corbett died March 31, 1903, whereupon Harvey W. Scott
became president. Upon Mr. S'cott's resignation, H. W. Goode was
elected.
286 HISTORY OF OREGON
substantial evidence that leading citizens were ready to
support the undertaking. So much encouragement was giv-
en that during the same year a beautiful tract of several
hundred acres overlooking Guild's Lake was chosen as the
site of the Nation's Great Fair.
BTEQSETE VIEW OF THE LEWIS AND OLABK BXPOSITITH
President Roosevelt Lays Cornier Stone. Early in 1 903
the Oregon Legislature authorized the holding of the Ejcposi-
tion and appropriated $300,000 therefor; and Governor
Chamberlain appointed the Oregon State Commission' of
eleven members with full power to act in all matters per-
taining to the management of the Lewis and Clark Exposi-
tion. On the 2 I st of the ensuing May, President Theodore
Roosevelt, in the presence of a vast throng, laid the comer
stone of the Lewis and Clark monument in City Park, Port-
land — an event of much significance in connection with tlie
approaching exposition. In February, 1904, Congress ap-
propriated $475,000 to the enterprise; and authorized the
transfer of the entire U. S, Government exhibit previously
iThe members of the Coiniulssion were Jefferson Myers, Salem;
Warren E. Thomas, Portland; Richard Scott, Milwaukie; Frank A.
Spencer, Portland; F. G Yoimg, Eugene; George iCoDsor, Heppner;
J. H, Albert, Salem; Frank Williams, Ashland; J. G. Flanders, Doc-
tor Day Lafferty, and G. Y. Harry, Portland,
EPOCH V 287
shown at the St. Louis Exposition, and in April provided for
the circulation of 250,000 souvenir Lewis and Clark silver
dollar coins, which had a far-reaching effect in giving pub-
licily to the Exposition.
JEFFE&301T UTEKS, FBESIDEHT OF THE LEWIS AND OIu^KK
CEHTEHNIAI. EXPOSITION OOMHISSIOK BBEAKEHO OBOTJND
FOB THE riKStt -'WESTEEN WOELD'3 FAIB"
Foreign Countries Participate. On May 3, 1 904. the
first ground for the construction of the Exposition was brok'
en amidst imposing ceremonies conducted by Jefferson My-
ers, president of the Lewis and Clark Centennial Exposition
Commission. Twenty-three buildings were then erected' — ■
three of which were for the government, thirteen for the
288 HISTORY OF OREdON
state of Oregon, and seven for the use of other states. Six-
teen foreign countries and seventeen states participated in
the exposition* which was formally opened on the appointed
day. May t, 1905, by Vice-President Fairbanks.
There Were ApproMmately Three Million Adimssums
to the grounds. Such was the patronage that the Lewis and
Clark exposition was the first national exposition in the
United States to prove financially successful. But, best of
all, the Lewis and Clark Exposition brought Americans as
well as foreign nations into better acquaintance, and into
closer touch with the people and the resources of Oregon,
so that capital finally responded to the long neglected csJI
from the Northwest. A new impetus was given to public
and private enterprises, and the throb of prosperity began
to be felt as never before throughout the region explored
by Lewis and Clark in their famous expedition to the Pa-
cific Coast.
The State Institution for Feeble-Minded. The State
Institution for feeble-minded was established by the Leg-
islature of 1907, and was formally opened in November,
1 908, when 38 feeble-minded persons were admitted. The
objects of the institution were first, prevention of mentsJ
defectives by segregation; second, care and attention to
make them as nearly self-supporting as possible; third,
custody of the idiotic and epileptic, seventy to eighty per-
cent of which, according to statistics, are in the state insti-
tution for feeble-minded because of hereditary defects.
The institution is located on a farm of 635 acres, about
thiee miles southeast of Salem. Instruction is given in
grade work, manual training, basketry and sewing. Vari-
ous other branches in connection with these subjects are also
taught. Those who are capable may advance in scholar-
ship about equal to the fourth grade in the public schools.
Additional Federal Judge. By Act of Congress of
March 2, 1909, an additional district judge was provided
EPOCH V. 289
for the District of Oregon. By the same act Congress pro-
vided for two additional terms of court to be held each
year; one at Pendleton on the first Tuesday of April, and
one at Medford on the first Tuesday in October. The special
reason for the appointment of an additional district judge,
and the holding of court in Pendleton and Medford, was the
large increase of business, requiring more than one judge
for its transaction. President Taft appointed Judge Robert
S. Bean to be the additional judge.
Oregon State Tuberculosis Hospital. *The Oregon
State Tuberculosis Hospital was established by an act of the
legislative assembly of 1909. Its purposes are to provide
treatment of tubercular patients; to act as an educational
institution, where patients are taught the fundamental rules
of right living and how to avoid spreading the disease among
others; to segregate those in the advanced stage of the dis-
ease, thus eliminating the danger of infecting their families
and others; to provide a home for those tubercular patients
who are unable to secure a home or proper care elsewhere.
Located about five miles southeast of Salem, the hospital
occupies a commanding site which affords a beautiful view
of the valley.'* — Oregon Blue Book.
Reed College. Reed College, which is located on a
campus of eighty-six acres in the southeastern part of Port-
land, within three miles of the center of the City, was
founded in 1904 as Reed Institute, but was established in
1910 as Reed College. It had in the beginning an endow-
ment of $3,000,000 through the terms of the will of Mrs.
Susan G. Reed, who, with her husband, both natives of
Massachusetts, came to Oregon in 1854. Mr. Reed was
one of the promoters and managers of the Oregon Stesun
Navigation Company; and he had amassed a fortune in
that enterprise. He died in 1895, leaving a will which con-
tained this significant provision: * 'Feeling, as I do, a deep
interest in the welfare and prosperity of the City of Port-
land, where I have spent my business life and accumulated
290 HISTORY OF OREGON
the property 1 possess, 1 would suggest to my wife that she
devote some portion of my estate to benevolent objects of
some suitable purpose which shall contribute to the beauty
of the City and to the intelligence, prosperity and happi-
ness of its inhabitants."
Mrs. Reed died in 1 904 and bequeathed property of
the value mentioned for "an institution of learning," leaving
a large latitude to its directors as to the details of its general
work and nature. Owing to the fact that Portland was rap-
ASTS BUILDING— SEED COLLEOE
idly growing, that city was a special field for the establish-
ment of an institution of higher learning; hence the wisdom
of the provision of her will.
Reed College is undenominational and non-sectarian,
but the authorities regard religion as wholesome and essen-
tial to human life. Religious meetings are regularly held
accordingly, under the direction of the institution. It is a
college of arts and sciences. In its efforts to elevate college
standards, it was the first institution in Oregon to announce
its refusal to admit special students, preparatory students,
or other students on condition.
Oregon Trail Monument Ejcpedition. Of the old emi-
grant trail Clara Blalce Morgan has written:
Aged and desolate, grizzled and still,
It creeps in slow curves round the base of the hill;
Of its once busy traffic is left little trace.
Not a hoof-print or wheel track is fresh on its face.
The Oregon trail is one of the most noted trails in
America. Originally only a pathway, it was later 'worn
deep and wide by the hoofs of stock and the grinding of
the wagon wheels of the Oregon immigrants into a well-
beaten wagon road. Yet it retained its original name.
Wlaik
lii^.-^^TMi,^ •j^T^.i
/ ^1
■ •,. ■* ^ ri
Copyright, GiffMd and Prenliss.
END OF THE OREOOH TRAIL
Vl«ir in 01t7 Faik. Tli« Dalles
When the ox team gave place to the iron horse, the old
highway of Oregon became neglected; and although of un-
usual depth and width, it was evident that in time it would
be effaced, and uncertainties arise as to its location, un-
less some one who had traveled over the route should
mark its course.
Ezra Meeker Marks the 0^'egon Trail. Fortunately
292 HISTORY OF OREGON
this task was undertaken by Ezra Meeker, who crossed the
plains in 1852, located a homestead on which he platted
the town of Puyallup, and then moved to Seattle, where
he now resides (1918). With an ox team, in 1906, he
drove from the tidewaters of the Pacific to the tidewaters of
the Atlantic, establishing monuments along the Trail be-
tween The Dalles and Omaha, a distance of eighteen
hundred miles. In assigning a reason for beginning at The
Dalles, Meeker said: **1 have always thought that here
[The Dalles] was the real starting point, as from here, there
could be no more shipping, but all driving."
Meeker's Equipment consisted of a yoke of oxen, and
a wagon of the old type with axles of wood and **the old
time linch pins and steel skeins involving the use of tar and
tar bucket. The bed was the ancient *prairie schooner,' so
called because it was fashioned to serve as a boat for use
in crossing rivers.** His outfit was strikingly similar to that
used by the Oregon immigrants, with but one exception — he
had a kodak. With this. Meeker photographed important
points to illustrate the story of the journey, which was later
published under the title, **The Ox Team.** His traveling out-
fit, together with his lectures, awakened much interest along
the way, enabling him to obtain the co-operation of clubs,
societies and schools in preserving the historic trail by plac-
ing stone monuments at important points under his per-
sonal supervision.
Infhience Upon Children. Upon commending the
interest taken by the people of The Dalles, Pendleton, Lee's
Encampment, LaGrande, Baker, Huntington, Vale and else-
where, the Oregon Trail Marker aptly said of the 800 school
children of Baker, who contributed their dimes to erect a
granite monument with a bronze tablet: **I am convinced
that this feature of the work is destined to give great results.
It is not the financial aid I refer to, but the effect it will have
upon the children in causing them to cherish patriotic sen-
EPOCH V.
293
timents in after years. Each child in Baker, or Huntington,
or Boise, or elsewhere, where these contributions have been
made, feels that he has part ownership in the shaft he helped
to erect. This feeling will develop into tender care for the
memorial, and it will grow
stronger as the child grows A
older."
Result of Meeker's Jour
ney. After marking the
trail with monuments as far
as Omaha, Mr. Meeker vis-
ited a .number of eastern
cities where he awakened in-
terest in the old emigrant
route. Partly as the result
of the prominence which he
gave to the Oregon Trail,
during his visit in the East-
em States, Congress at three
successive sessions took up
for consideration the appro-
priation of $100,000 to complete the work of marking the
trail, with the belief that this aid would involve a preliminary
survey for a national highway as a suitable memorial to the
pioneers of Old Oregon. But the bill failed to become a law.
In co-operation with Mr. Meeker in the patriotic effort to pre-
serve the Oregon Trail, the Oregon Geographic Board, The
Oregon Historical Society, The Daughters of the American
Revolution, and other organizations in this State have begun
the commendable movement of establishing landmarks
along other historic highways of Oregon.
Oregon Bank Holklays. Financial Panic in Eastern
States. Early in October. 1 907, a financial panic occurred
OREGON TRAIL MOmfMENT
in the United States which was very disastrc
and peculiar in that it happened during e
in many ways,
iod of prosper-
294 HISTORY OF OREGON
ity. It was properly called a * "banker's panic" for the rea-
son that it started through fear on the part of wealthy men
that something was about to happen, and clearly illustrated
the saying that **there is no coward so great as money.'* A
lack of confidence in one instance w^as sufficient to frighten
others, and the condition became national in twenty-four
hours. Many of the greatest banks of the country suspended
payments and closed their doors. Others, dependent upon
them did likewise, and for a time business was completely
paralyzed.
The Effects of the Eastern Panic Reached Oregon,
and though our banks were in splendid condition many of
them were forced to close because the balance due them
from eastern banks could not be had. To meet such an ab-
ilormal condition Governor Chamberlain, at the solicitation
of a committee of Portland bankers who went to the capital
on a special train for that purpose, proclaimed a series of
bank holidays, beginning on October 28 and lasting for five
days. At the end of that period, however, the danger had
not been lessened and he automatically continued the bank
holiday season from day to day until conditions had righted
themselves and the fright had passed. The method to which
the Governor resorted was novel; but it answered a good
purpose and served to alleviate a condition which might have
been far more disastrous than it was.
The North Bank Road. The Spokane, Poitland a/nd
Seattle Railroad, popularly known as the * "North Bank
Road," is a joint property owned equally by the Northern
Pacific and Great Northern railway companies. The con-
struction work was begun on the Northern Pacific in Minne-
sota in the summer of 1 870; but the failure of the Jay Cooke
Company in 1873 threw it into financial straits and it after-
wards passed through many troublesome times before reach-
ing its Pacific Coast terminus, The Qreat Northern reached
EPOCH V.
295
the Pacific Coast in 1893. Mr. Villard gave the Northern
Pacific the benefit of his financial genius, but not until James
J. Hill, a controlling factor in its affairs, became its manager
did it realize the hopes of its first stockholders. For many
years, Mr. Hill perceived the advantage of a "do'wn grade"
route to tidewater and when the time was ripe he began the
construction of the North Bank line from Spokane, Washing-
ton, to the Columbia River at Pasco and thence down the
north bank of the Columbia River, This was a most difficult
engineering task; but Mr> Hill was a man of indomitable en-
ergy and great foresight, and all obstructions were finally
overcome.
Completed by James J. Hill.
for the construction of bridges a
Willamette below Portland,
but they were built, and the
"James J. Hill Special" cross-
ed the Columbia bridge on
December 5, 1908, the event
being celebrated at Vancou-
ver with speeches, brass bands
and fireworks. The bridge
^vas put into regular service on
December I 7, 3^on after-
ward the North Bank road
acquired the Astoria and Co-
lumbia River railroad which
gave the "Hill interests a con-
tinuous line from St. Paul to
the sea on a down grade
route through the State of
Oregon. This was the consummation of Mr. Hill's great de-
sire, and gives all Oregon, together with its other railroad
connections, the advantages in transportation which its
JAMB3 J. HILL
natural position commands and di
Mr. Hill will be
296 HISTORY OF OREGON
known in the history of the Northwest as **The Empire
Builder,'* as by his foresight he constructed roads into sec-
tions before they were settled, thus providing means for lo-
cators to develop latent resources. He proved himself a
valued friend to the people of Oregon and of the entire
Northwest.
EPOCH V.
GOVERNOR FRANK W. BENSON
March 1, 1909.— June 17, 1910
Frank W. Benson was born Ln San Jose, California,
MarcK 20, 1858. When twenty-one years of age he gradu-
ated from the University of the Pacific, located in his native
city. In 1 880 he moved to Douglas County, Oregon, where
he served as teacher, school superintendent, clerk of the
United States Land Office, president of the Normal School
at Drain, and county clerk.
In 1 896, he was admitted to
the bar. and in 1906 as a life-
long Republican he was
elected secretary of state.
By virtue of hia office as sec-
retary of state, Mr. Benson
became governor, March 1 ,
i 909, when Governor Cham-
berlain resigned to become
United States Senator. De-
clining the nomination to
succeed himself as gover-
nor. Mr. Benson was re-
elected secretary of state, in
which relation he was en-
titled to remain governor ex-
officio until the governor elect could be lawfully qualified.
But ill health compelled him to resign the duties of gover-
nor, June 17, 1910. However, he continued in his office as
secretary of state until his death, April 14, 1911.
OOA^ERIfOK FBAHS V
HISTORY OF OREGON
GOVERNOR JAY BOWERMAN
June 17. 1910— January 11, 1911
Jay Bo^erman ivas
the first president of the
Oregon Senate to be-
come ex-officio gover-
nor of this State.
When Governor Ben-
son, 'who was in Cali-
fornia because of ill
health, resigned his ex-
ecutive duties, June I 7,
1910, J. Bowerman
by virtue of his office as
President of the Sen-
ate became Governor
of Oregon, a position
which he held until his
IS inaugu-
.■ated January II, 1911.
The Pendleton Round-Up. The Pendleton Round-
Up is the world's greatest frontier exhibition. It is reputed
to be a most unique and characteristic, thrilling and excit-
ing reproduction of the sports and pastimes of the pre-
civilized days of the West. Its purpose is to represent on
the passing frontier — rich in cowboy and Indian tradition —
the excitement of frontier life, the barbaric beauty of
Indian knighthood, and the romance and rugged grandeur
surrounding the American savage, the cowboy and the pio-
neer. From five hundred to one thousand cowboys, cow-
girls, and Indians direct from the ranges and reservations
participate in this dramatization of western life, perform-
ing many of the most difficult feats of horsemanship; and
EPOCH V.
299
they have succeeded in making classic many features be-
longing to the border. Their performances are given on a
quarter-mile circuit surrounded by grandstand and bleach-
ers with a total seating capacity of 40,000 — the largest west
of the Mississippi River.
The Pendleton Round-Up was first produced in 1910.
Since then it has been held annually. The performances
continue three days, during which world championships in
the sports of the cowboy
are won and lost. Patron-
age has steadily increased
until this exhibition of
frontier horsemanship is
witnessed by the largest
assemblages attending any
single event in the western
part of the continent.
A peculiar feature of
the Round-Up at Pendle-
ton is its absolute freedom
from commercialism. Citi-
zens of. that community
own the stock. The offi-
cials tender their services without compensation; they pur-
chase their own tickets of admission; and all proiits are ex-
pended in improving the performances and the stadium. It
is thus that the Pendleton Round-Up has been safeguarded
from criticism and preserved from decay.
Oregon's "Grand Old Man." A distinctive honor
came to the State of Oregon when, in 1671 President Grant
appointed Hon. George H. Williams, its most prominent citi-
zen, to the position of Attorney General of the United States,
who thus became the first member of a President's cabinet to
be selected from the Pacific Coast. Mr. Williams was bom
300 HISTORY OF OREGON
in New Lebanon, Columbia County, New York, on March
26, 1823. He received an academic education at Pompey,
New York, and at the age of 21 years was admitted to the
bar of that state. Soon afterwards he removed to the then
far western state of Iowa and began practicing law at the
EPOCH V. 301
town of Fort Madison. Upon the organization of the state
government he was chosen judge of the first judicial district
and held that position for five years. In 1 85 3 he was ap-
pointed by President Pierce, Chief Justice of Oregon Terri-
tory and in 1857 was re-appointed by President Buchanan.
In 185 7 he served as a member of the state constitutional
convention and canvassed the state while its adoption was
pending before the people in favor of the section which pro-
hibited slavery, it having been submitted for a separate vote.
In 1 864 Mr. Williams was elected to the United States
Senate and upon taking his seat in the following March at
once attracted the attention of the nation by his far-seeing
statesmanship and clearness of expression. He took a lead-
ing part in the great legislative work connected with the re-
construction of the southern states and was an active member
of the committees on finance and public lands. He was the
author of what was known as the **Tenure of Office Act**
which was vetoed by President Johnson, but was passed over
the veto. He made a brilliant record as United States Attor-
ney General, the duties of which position were extremely im-
portant, and highly technical owing to the vast amount of
legislation growing out of the Civil War. He was appointed
a member of the international commission to settle differ-
ences between the United States and England which had re-
sulted from the war and won the high esteem of his fellow
members for his learning and diplomacy. President Grant
appointed him Chief Justice of the United States Supreme
Court to succeed Salmon P. Chase; but owing to political
complications which arose, the confirmation was delayed
and Mr. Williams withdrew his name. This is deeply to be
regretted for during the thirty years he lived after that event
he would have made a splendid record in that high office.
When the serious controversy was presented in 1877 in the
contest between Hayes and Tilden over the Presidency of the
United States it was an article written by Mr. Williams and
published in the ** Washington Star" which contained the first
id! HISTORY OF OREGON
public expression of the groundwork which was afterward
adopted by Congress as a solution of a grave national crisis.
After returning to Oregon, Mr. Williams resumed the
practice of law in Portland and for thirty years was knowm
for his public spirited endeavors, his philosophic teachings
and democratic bearing. When past 80 years of age he
served the city of Portland as its Mayor, giving the position
his active attention. He was affectionately known as * 'Ore-
gon's Grand Old Man;** and in 1910, when well past 87
years of age and without any signs of mental decadence,
passed peacefully away.
GOVERNOR OSWALD WEST
January 11, 1911 — January 12, 1915
Oswald West was born in Ontario, Canada, May 20,
1873 and came to Oregon with his parents when a amall
child. His boyhood was one of struggles and hardship.
At fifteen years of age he was given a position with the
Ladd & Bush Bank, in Salem, where he rose from office
boy to cashier. Later he was cashier in an Astoria bank.
In his youth he earned a reputation for high integrity, deter-
mined character, and originality. Upon the ascension of
Governor Chamberlain to the executive office in 1903, Mr.
West was appointed Stat
Land Agent, and aftei
Wards was assigned to
place on the State Railway
Commission. In 1 9 1 he
was elected Governor.and
January II, 1911, ^as in-
augurated. Although his
administration ^ffa» notably
eventful he declined to be
renominated.
Honor System for Con-
vkU. Perhaps the Most
Notable Feature of the
administration of Gover-
nor West was his radical
l_ . ., c OOVEEMOE OSWALD WEST
change in the manner ot
conducting the affairs of the State Penitentiary. He inaugu-
rated what was known as the Honor System of managing
prisoners, appealing to their honor as a basis for giving them
304 HISTORY OF OREGON
more liberties and greater freedom generally. TTie manu-
facture of stoves at the prison had been abandoned; and to
avoid the evil effects of idleness among the prisoners, other
work was necessary. At different times Governor West had
scores of prisoners in various parts of the state engaged in
many kinds of employment; and while there were some es-
capes, it was generally conceded that the greater number of
convicts proved worthy of the trust in their honor.
The Parole. Upon the theory that the community is
better protected and the convict given a better opportunity
to reclaim himself when allowed to go out on parole, rather
than to be compelled to complete his sentence and then
turned loose without restraint, such convicts as proved
worthy were paroled upon the condition that they be law-
abiding and report monthly to the parole officer.
Fish and Game Commission Created. At the 1911
session of the Oregon Legislature, a law was passed creating
a Fish and Game Commission. This law provided that this
board shall consist of five citizens, four of these members to
be appointed by the Governor, one appointed each year to
serve a term of four years. The law also provided that two
members were to be residents of that section of the state
lying east of the Cascade Range. The other two were to be
from the western part of the State. Tke fifth member was to
be selected by the other four, his term of service to be one
year. This board was given full power and authority to en-
force all laws respecting the protection, preservation and
propagation of fish, game animals, game and non-game birds
within the state.
Commission Appoints Game Warden With New Duties.
The Fish and Game Commission appointed by Governor
Oswald West chose William L. Finley, well-known natural-
ist, as State Game Warden, to carry on the enforcement of
game laws and the propagation of various kinds of game.
Before this time game protection had heen largely a matter
of making laws and trying to enforce them. It had been
considered a police problem. It was now to be treated as an
economic and educational problem. Hence for the purpose
of interesting children systematic study of the birds, animals
and fish of the State was begun for the first time in Oregon.
In many parts of the State where it had been impossible to
convict people for the violation of game laws, the sentiment
306 HISTORY OF OREGON
gradually changed, and game soon began to be regarded as
one of the State's important resources.
State Biologist With Neiv Duties. At the end of
four years, the Fish and Game Commission decided that Mr.
Finley*s entire time should be devoted to educational and
scientific work and a new position was created for him.
Instead of State Game Warden he was given the position of
State Biologist.
Oregon Forestry Board. At this time forest (ires,
which had been frequent in Oregon since the earliest Indian
traditions began to attract attention. It was affirmed that
four times as much timber had been burned in Oregon as had
been manufactured, which is very significant when we con-
sider that two-fifths of the state is covered with forests, and
that next to land, timber is Oregon's greatest asset. The
forests also invite railroads, furnish employment to an army
of laborers, lessen taxes, tend to preserve the equal flow of
streams, thereby rendering them valuable for electric devel-
opment and irrigation; furnish refuge for game, and pre-
vent the destructive erosion of mountain soils. Therefore,
when carefully compiled statistics were submitted showing
that eighty-five per cent of the forest fires were unnecessary
— having been the result of carelessness, indifference, or
malice — the legislature of Oregon, in 1911, decided to give
the great forest crop the same care that is given to agricul-
tural products. Accordingly the present Forestry Board
was created for the purpose of co-operating with the federal
government in keeping the forests green until they could be
converted into lumber or be of other benefit to the State.
This board is composed of the Governor, head of the Fores-
try School at the Oregon Agricultural College, and five addi-
tional members, each representing and selected by one of
the following organizations: Oregon State Grange, Oregon
Fire Association, Oregon Lumber Manufacturers* Associa-
EPOCH V. 307
tion, United States Forestry Service, Oregon Woolgrowers'
Association. As a result of the Forestry Board's efforts many
localities have already been reforested, about six thousand
miles of telephone constructed and put in order, lookout sta-
tions equipped and hundreds of patrolmen and lookout men
placed in charge at strategic points during the months when
fires are most common. In consequence of the progress
made in forestry conservation, the board has announced that
the income from our forests will increase fifty per cent annu-
ally.
The Woman Suffrage Movement. The Apostle of
Equal Suffrage. Since the beginning of the territorial days,,
there has been no effort in Oregon for the success of any
movement marked by more indomitable persistency than
that which finally resulted in conferring on women the right
to vote at all elections. Though at all times loyally assisted
by many men and women, the credit for this triumph is uni-
versally given to Mrs. Abigail Scott Duniway, who, in 1871,
began the publication of the New Northwest, a weekly
journal devoted to the dissemination of trenchant arguments
supporting the justice of the demands for equal suffrage. In
1873, Mrs. Duniway was instrumental in organizing the
Oregon Equal Suffrage Association, which inaugurated a
campaign for equal suffrage that was waged with undimin-
ished enthusiasm through many defeats until its success in
November 1912.
Initiative Amendment for Eqvxil Suffrage Carries.
Through all these intervening years Mrs. Duniway was very
active with pen and voice in spreading the gospel of equal
suffrage, and made scores of speaking campaigns in adjoin-
ing states and territories as well as in the eastern section of
the United States. In the earlier days of Oregon's history it
required the approval of two legislatures before a proposed
amendment to the state constitution could be submitted to
HISTORY OF ORLGON
MBS. ABIGAIL 800TT DPNIWAY
EPOCH V. 309
the people for ratification or for rejection, thus requiring six
years to act finally upon the matter. After the adoption of
the initiative amendment to the constitution, however, this
handicap was removed, and the supporters of the equal suf-
frage amendment submitted the question to the voters at
every election until it was ratified in 1912. The vote for
equal suffrage was in 1906, 36,902, and against 47,075. In
1908, for 36,858 and against, 58,670. In 1910, for 35,270.
against 58,065. In 1912. for 61,265, against, 57.104. a
majority of 4. 1 6 1 .
Equal Suffrage Becomes a Law. After Equal Suffrage
was passed it became a law by the Governor's proclamation
November 30, 1912. At the request of Governor West
iMrs. Duniway wrote the official proclamation announcing
the adoption of the amendment, which successfully closed
one of the most spectacular and persistent campaigns known
to the history of any state in the Union. Because of her ad-
vanced age Mrs. Duniway was unable to be present at the
Executive Office to witness the Governor subscribe his sig-
nature to the document; hence Governor West, out of con-
sideration for what she had done for Oregon women, went
to her home in Portland, so that it might be signed in her
presence. In order to give Mrs. Duniway further recognition
as the foremost apostle of Equal Suffrage for Women, the
Governor, after the document had been recorded by the Sec-
retary of State, gave it to her.
CoppeTiield Placed Under Martial Law. Illegal sales
of liquor being the most prevalent violation of the law at
this time. Governor West was determined in his purpose to
prevent illegal sales of intoxicants in the state. Although
it was still lawful to operate saloons, his warfare against all
infractions of the law governing them was waged without
fear or favor. As the result of his efforts. Governor West
was enabled to demonstrate to the people of Oregon that
the law can be enforced ; and in this way he encouraged the
3 1 HISTORY OF OREGON
passing of more stringent laws, until the sentiment in favor
of law enforcement was so strengthened that prohibition
ultimately carried the state.
Copperfield Attracts Wide Attention. The case of
a saloon in Copperfield, Baker County, where Governor
West decided to declare martial law against the city authori-
ties attracted attention throughout the Northwest. Gover-
nor West sent a squad of National Guardsmen to that place,
and his private secretary^ took possession of the municipal
government, and held it for several weeks. His private sec-
retary called a meeting of the citizens, read the Governor's
proclamation declaring Copperfield under military govern-
ment, saw to it that the civil authorities were deposed, and
then she returned to Salem. This drastic measure was the
first instance of martial law in Oregon since the Civil War,
but it had the effect of noticeably lessening the extent of il-
legal operation of saloons throughout the state.
New Year's Reception to Ex-Govemors of Oregon.
Under the direction of Governor West a reception was given
at the State House, on New Year's Eve, 1912, to all the ex-
governors and ex-governors* wives who were then living.
While the occasion was arranged to afford them an opportu-
nity for an exchange of greetings, it was a special recognition
of chief executives and their wives, which reminded the peo-
ple of the valued services these men and women had ren-
dered to the State. It was a most impressive social affair of
unique prominence in the history of Oregon.
Eastern Oregon State Hospital. 'The Eastern Oregon
State Hospital had its origin in an initiative measure provid-
ing for the establishment of a state hospital for the insane
east of the Cascade mountains, and appropriating $200,000
toward the purchase of a site and the erection of buildings,
adopted by the people of the state in November, 1910. The
iMiss Fern Hobbs.
EPOCH V. 311
legislature of 1911 appropriated $315,000 additional to
complete the erection and to furnish the buildings, and for
other equipment. A tract of land comprising about 450
acres situated a mile and a half west of Pendleton, in Uma-
tilla County, was selected, and hospital buildings, modern in
every respect, and of a capacity to accommodate about 400
patients, were completed and accepted by the board of trus-
tees January 1 , 1913. The hospital was formally opened
and occupied upon the transfer of 325 patients from the
Oregon state hospital at Salem, on January 25, 1913.*' —
Oregon Blue Book.
New Era of Irrigation Activities in Oregon. In 1913,
$450,000 was appropriated by the State of Oregon for the
completion of the Columbia Southern Project in Crook
County, which had been initiated under the Carey Act. At
the same time provision was also made for the investigation
of many of our other large irrigation projects. Irrigation dis-
tricts became the popular plan under which irrigation works
should be constructed, and the reports of the State of Ore-
gon, acting in co-operation with the United States, led in
1914 and 1915 to the organization of eight districts. There-
fore, as the passage of the Carey Act, and the United States
Reclamation Act, marked a new era of interest in irrigation
development, so the passage of two important statutes in
1913 appropriating $450,000 for the Tumalo Project and
$50,000 for investigations marked a new era of promotion
and development; and as a result of these movements there
are (1918) approximately 700,000 acres of land under irri-
gation development in Oregon.
Oregon State Industrial School for Girls. **The Ore-
gon State Industrial school for girls was established by act of
the 1913 legislature, and located in temporary quarters un-
til February, 1915, when it was removed to its present site,
five and one-half miles south-east of Salem. TTie courses
given for credit are cooking, sewing, laundering, gardening.
3 1 2 HISTORY OF OREGON
the housewife arts of cleaning and bedmaking; hand crafts of
weaving, plaiting, crochet and basketry; chicken and rabbit
rearing; physical culture; vocal and instrumental music ;child
study, feeding, training and care of children; and the usual
English courses through the eighth grade accredited by the
Salem superintendent of schools. Only girls committed by
the courts are received. The institution is under the state
board of control, but has an advisory board of three women
appointed by the governor." — Oregon Blue Book.
Cascade Locks. Cascade Locks required forty years
for survey and construction. Work preparatory to the con-
ctruction of the canal and locks was begun by Major N.
Michler in 1874, under an act of Congress passed that year;
but construction was not actually begun until 1879, The
canal, which is 90 feet wide and 3,000 feet long, was opened
"5
to river traffic in November, 1696. Until this time no boat
had ascended the Cascades, although several passenger boats
including the "R. R. Thompson," the "Gold Dust," and
the "D. S. Baker," had successfully ridden over them with
EPOCH V. 313
the current. The south wall of the canal was completed in
November, 1914, the entire cost of the locks being nearly
four million dollars. This was five times the estimated cost
given by the engineers at the beginning of the undertaking.
Capital Punishment Abolished. Movement Headed
by the Governor. From the earliest years of Oregon's his-
tory until 1914, the punishment for convicted first degree
murderers was **hanging by the neck until dead.** This has
been one of the common penalties for such crimes in most
countries from time immemorial. Yet efforts to abolish
it have been made during the past century by those who con-
demned such punishment as barbarous. At various times
movements had been inaugurated to abolish capital punish-
ment in Oregon, but no concerted action in that direction
was undertaken until the year 1914, when, headed by Gov-
ernor West, a state-wide campaign was carried on having for
its object the elimination of that provision from our statutes.
The vote in the state stood for its abolition, 100,552, and
against 100,395.
The effect of this change in the criminal law of the state
is not regarded with unqualified public approval, and the
adoption of the prohibition law at the same time renders it
the more difficult to form an accurate opinion as to its
merits. It is not likely, however, that any attempt will ever
be made to re-establish capital punishment in Oregon.
3 1 4 HISTORY OF OREGON
GOVERNOR JAMES WTTHYCOMBE
January 12, 1915
James Wtthycombe is the only man v/ho resigned a col-
lege chair that he might assume the duties of an Oregon Gov-
ernor, and he is the only Governor of Oregon re-elected on
the Republican ticket. He was bom in Tavistock. England,
March 21, 1854. When seventeen years of age he moved
with his parents to Hillsboro, Oregon, where he lived on a
tarm. Although a mere youth, Mr. Withycombe displayed
keen interest in ail problems relating to rural life, and proved
himself to be an enthusias-
tic admirer of fine livestock
of all kinds, with a special
fondness for the American
saddle horse. After receiv-
ing thoKough training in
grammar and secondary
schools, he specialized under
tutors in agriculture and vet-
erinary science, and in I 669,
was appointed State Veter-
inarian. He resigned nine
years later to accept the
office of Agriculturist, Direc-
^ tor of the Oregon Experi-
GOTEKNOB JAMES wiTHYOOMBE ment Station, and Director
of Farmers' Institutes held under the supervision of
the Oregon Agricultural College. During his con-
nection with that institution of learning. Doctor
Withycombe was associated with a number of the most
prominent livestock associations of this country, and at vari-
ous times was delegate to congressional and state conventions
and other civic organizations. In 1 9 1 4, he was elected Gov-
ernor on the Republican ticket, receiving the largest plurality
EPOCH V. 315
ever given to a candidate for that office in Oregon; and on
the 1 2th day of the following January, his inauguration took
place. He was re-elected November 5, 1918.
Labor Laws Governing Minors. For the better protec-
tion of minors in Oregon, State Labor Commissioner O. P.
HofF, in 1917, published and gave prominence to the follow-
ing labor laws governing minors. No person shall employ —
1. Any minor girl in any occupation more than nine
hours in one day, and in no case more than fifty hours in one
week.
2. Any minor boy for more than ten hours in one day.
3. Any minor boy or minor girl under sixteen years of
age more than eight hours in any one day.
4. Any minor boy or minor girl more than six days in
one calendar week.
5. Any minor girl for more than six hours of continu-
ous labor between the hours of 7 a. m. and 6 p. m. without a
rest period of at least forty-five minutes.
6. Any minor girl in any occupation after the hour of
6 p. m. on any day.
7. Any minor boy or minor girl in any occupation at a
weekly wage rate of less than $6.00 except as arranged by
the commission in the case of apprentices.
Prehistoric Wrecks Along the Oregon Coast. Early
last century there were rumors that piracy had been prac-
ticed along the Oregon Coast. This was in a period when lit-
erature and the talk of the home circle were pervaded with
stories of Captain Kidd and other pirates. So that when
strange marks slightly resembling hieroglyphics dimmed
with age, but which might have been wrought by some
freakish act of Nature, were found on the ledges along the
sea coast, many believed them to be inscriptions indicating
places where treasures had been buried by the pirates. Also
unmistakable evidences of shipwrecks along the Oregon
Coast gave some color of truth to the practice of piracy and
i
316
HISTORY OF OREGOM
to atories such aa the ahipwreck that enabled Chief Multno-
mah, in "The Bridge of the Gods," to find his cultured Hindu
wife, the gifted mother of Wallula, the Indian princess. But
while these accounts of piracy have not been established as
historical, and stories of stranded ships have come down to
us merely as myths and legends, it is known that there were
numerous prehistoric shipwrecks along the Oregon Coast.
Among these was the wreck of the "Beeswax Ship."
Wreck of the "Beeswax Ship." Since the first appear-
ance of white men in Oregon to the present time, beeswax
has been found along the ocean beach near the Nahelem
River. This being the only known locality where beeswax
can be obtained
after this man-
ner, the early
settlers could
not understand
how it came
there. Because
they could not
account for its
presence, they
began to think
they were mis-
taken, and that
it was not bees-
wax, but a min-
eral closely re-
sembling bees-
wax. Also the
of which t.dd been whitened
ces of having been dis-
and melted it into
I LUMP, BEUBTED
WBECKAOB FBOM TH
fact that the wax', som*
by the sun, bore evidences
turbed by drifting sands that
B in
EPOCH V. 317
various shapes, added to their doubts. Many there-
fore, came to believe that it was a mineral deposit which had
been thrown up from the bed of the ocean, or washed down
from the mountains. That it was frequently found at a
considerable distance from the present shore line and above
the highest known tide, gave some credence to this theory.
But when blocks symmetrical in form bearing inscriptions
such as IHN and IHS, also many candles, which the sun had
melted at the ends thereby preserving the wicks, were found,
it became apparent it was truly beeswax which had
been sent to missions for use in worship. But in time, scien-
tists from the Smithsonian Institute and elsewhere began to
inquire, **How came the wax here?** It was then suggested
that Lewis and Clark had reported the presence of this sub-
stance, and that Indians had prior to 1850 used it for lights
and for other purposes. Later, when portions of ancient
ships were found imbedded in the sand, it was decided that
various wrecks had taken place near the mouth of the Neha-
lem, and that the cargo and parts of the various ships had
been washed to the same shore and then strewn by wave
and tide up and down the beach. In a vain endeavor to
gain specific information regarding the lost vessel, wrecks of
numerous ships were recounted, among which was the one
mentioned by Hall J. Kelley, which was laden with a similar
cargo, and met its fate farther up the coast. No one,
therefore, has been able to learn the name of the craft that
was lost with her cargo near Nehalem, whence she sailed,
nor whither she was bound. Her identity and destination
are shrouded in mystery. Therefore, her stranding and
destruction may fitly be termed the wreck of the * 'Beeswax
Ship."
Celilo Locks and CanaL One of the Great Internal
Improvements that had engaged the attention of the early
transportation companies of Oregon was the construction
3 1 8 HISTORY OF OREGON
of a canal and locks on the Columbia River between The
Dalles and Celilo. The natural obstructions at that
point had made necessary the double handling of
all freight, and this handicap could be overcome only
OELILO FALLS OH THE COLUMBIA
by the construction of a canal and locks. This was, of
course, before the days of railroad transportation, and
even after the introduction of that means of traffic, it was
recognized that "an open river" ^vould have a bearing on
a lower rate of freight handling.
The first survey for this improvement was made in
1874. and efforts were soon made by the Senators and
Representatives in Congress to enlist the interest and aid
of the federal government in the project. Because the Co'
lumbia River was so far removed from the population cen-
ter of the United States it was exceedin^fly difficult to se-
EPOCH V. 319
cure an appropriation, and Congress after Congress rejected
the proposition. Success, however, finally followed per-
sistency in the matter, and in 1904 a contract was let for
the beginning of the much-desired improvement. Even after
its beginning there were many delays, and before the Locks
were completed the State constructed a portage railroad to
assist the people in an effort to lower the freight rates of
the railroads.
The Canal and Locks Were Completed in the early
summer of 1915, eleven years after the first work was done;
and the event was celebrated in Portland by sending a
steamboat on a trip to Lewiston and back, thus actually
realizing the benefit of an **open river.** The canal cost a
trifle less than $5,000,000 and is approximately eleven
miles long. There are four locks, each 65 feet wide at
the bottom, which have a depth of 8 feet at low water.
The fall from Celilo to the lower end of the canal is about
1 00 feet. This marks a great improvement in the transpor-
tation condition in Oregon, ^and while most of the freight
is still handled by the railroads the existence of the canal and
locks will always influence the adjustment of traffic rates.
Oregon Gold Output Increasing. For a number of
years the gold output of Oregon has been steadily increas-
ing. Of the thirteen counties that yield gold. Baker
County, in 1915, took the lead with $1,700,000. The
same year the three counties in the order of their promi-
nence as mercury producers, were Josephine, $85,000;
Malheur, $33,700; and Jackson $30,200. .
Improved Poultry Industry. In the year 1913, Ore-
gon surpassed the world*s record in poultry husbandry.
An Oregon Agricultural College hen, by name Lady Mc-
Duff , and by No. C5 2 1 , was the first hen in the world to lay
300 eggs in a year by actual trap-nest count. Her record
320 HISTORY OF OREGON
was 303 eggs in her first 12 montha of laying. This hen
was the result of scientific breeding conducted at the Poul-
try Department of the College. Elxperiments with Hen No.
C52I demonstrated that it is possible to breed flocks of
fowls that will lay an average of 200 eggs a year, notwith-
standing the prevalent be-
lief of a few years before that
an individual hen laying that
number of eggs in a year
was a '"rara avis" — a fowl
that could not reproduce her
kind. The science of poul-
try husbandry, however, has
advanced so rapidly that
Hen C52I was finally sur-
passed, but not until her rec-
ord stimulated nation-wide
experiment in poultry indus-
try.
Lady McDufF is not only a champion herself, but she
has the greater distinction of producing champions.
Large numbers of her descendants have shown phenomena]
laying proclivities. In the sixth International Egg Laying
Contest at the Connecticut Agricultural College, in compe-
tition ^vith the best bred layers in the world, a pen of ten
of her grand-daughters beat all other entries, 100 in num-
ber, and broke the record for a pen of ten in laying contests
^vith an average production of 235.2 eggs a hen.
Oregon State Library. The Oregon State Library has
been in existence since territorial days. Until the year 1913
it was a law and document library exclusively. In that year
the legislature transferred all except the law books to the
EPOCH V. 321
Oregon Library Commission, which had been created in
1905 for the purpose of extending the use of books through-
out the state by a system of traveling libraries, and for ad-
visory work with public libraries. When the State Library
was turned over to this Board of Trustees the name, Oregon
Library Commission was dropped, and to the Trustees of
the State Library all the state library work was given with
the exception of the Supreme Court Law Library, which is
under the jurisdiction of the Supreme
Court, and consists of law books only.
The Supreme Court Judges had pre-
viously constituted the Board for the
State Library. The reason for the
establishment of the Library Commis-
sion in 1905 was the necessity for
the distribution of books for coi
try places and small towns; the funda- state libeart seal
mental purpose of the movement was to provide equali^
of opportunity for country and city. During the
biennial period ending September 30, 1916, the
State Library sent out over 104.000 volumes by
mail, freight and express, reaching the small public
libraries, schools, granges, and people in isolated
places in the State. The borro^ver pays the cost of trans-
portation, but the service of the library is entirely free.
Through this traveling library system and its general loan
collection, groups of books are sent to clubs, schools, county
agricultural agents, debating teams and other organiza-
tions. Through the continuous distribution of books and
other literature, the Oregon State Library has become a
highly valued and important factor in advancing the kind
of intelligence which is especially essential in a state
where the right of equal suffrage has been established by
popular vote.
Bone Dry Laws of Oregon. Earlier in its history
than an^ other State in the Union, perhaps, Oregon enacted
322 HISTORY OF OREGON
a law prohibiting the importation or use of intoxicating
liquors. The Provisional Legislature in its session in 1 844
enacted a law prohibiting the sale of ardent liquors, but in
1845 it amended the organic laws to provide for the regu-
lation of such traffic, because the Hudson Bay Company
permitted the use of intoxicants by its employees. At that
time the Oregon Country was an independent region, but
was hampered in the enforcement of its own laws. The
change in the law providing merely for regulation was car-
ried by a vote of the people by the small majority of 203
on July 26, 1845. The next year a license law was passed
over the veto of Governor Abernethy.
The passage of the prohibition law in Maine in 1851
renewed an interest in the question in Oregon, and during
the years 1853-54 it was an important factor in Territorial
political campaigns. At intervals in succeeding years it was
revived, and in the 80's was the basis for the organization
of the Prohibition party, which for several years was an ac-
tive factor in the State elections. In November, 1887, a
special election was held on a constitutional amendment
which had been submitted by the legislature in order that
the question might be considered and passed upon by the
people, uninfluenced by a political campaign; but after a
spirited contest it was defeated by a large majority. From
that time until the effort was successful in November, 1914,
the movement toward prohibition was before the people
in one form and another, uniformly gaining in public sup-
port, its advocates never abandoning its discussion where
there was a possibility for its consideration. The smiend-
ment adopted in November, 1914, by a vote of 1 36,842 for
and 100,362 against, provided for absolute prohibition of
the manufacture, importation or sale of all forms of in-
toxicating liquors and every saloon in the state was closed,
according to the terms of the act, on January 1 , 1916.
EPOCH V.
323
Oregon in the World War. Although located as far
from the political and commercial activities of the country
as any other state in the Union, Oregon was at all times
welt in the front in accepting and performing her part in
prosecuting the great war against Germany and her
allies. When the first call for troops was made after the dec-
laration of war, Oregon promptly furnished her quota of
volunteers, and her support of the Government was not
surpassed in any section of the United States. She sent
many of her bravest sons to the firing line of battlefields
324 HISTORY OF OREGON
already made famous by Caesar, Joan of Arc, and Napo-
leon; and she bade many of her courageous daughters to
follow the **Stars and Stripes*' to the same fields of glory
and there administer to the comfort of the noble wounded
and pay a sisterly tribute to the honored dead. In a loyal
response to the country's call state pride became aggressively
active and permeated every branch of endeavor. In
what was known as the Third Liberty Loan, Oregon was
the first state in the Union to subscribe the assigned quota,
and Portland was the first city of her class in the nation to
**go over the top." In the Fourth Liberty Loan, Portland
repeated this splendid record while Oregon was the second
state to raise her quota — $33,000,000 — Iowa being the
first. Oregon met every demand made upon her in the
struggle to w^in the great war, and she now shares the honor
of establishing a new Independence Day — the Independ-
ence Day of the Nations — on which the world was made
safe for democracy."
Ship Building in Oregon. The Industry Stimulated
by the War, Although possessing the best timber for
the building of ships of any state in the Union, Oregon
had done little toward assisting in that industry. A few
vessels had been constructed, but as a business shipbuilding
languished. With the beginning of the **World War," how-
ever, this condition changed, especially after the United
States entered actively into the contest.
Thousands of Men Are Employed in various parts of
the state in shipbuilding, and it is impossible to secure suf-
ficient labor to answer the demand. At present (October
1918) there are 31 steel ships under contract for construc-
tion, three of which have been completed. There are 75
wooden ships under construction and 20 others under con-
tract to the French government. Twenty-eight wooden
ships have been finished under private contract. Approxi-
EPOCH V.
325
mately twenty firms are now engaged in this industry in Ore-
gon, and the industry is rapidly growing.
Herbert Hoover an Oregonian. Soon after the
declaration of war by the United States against Germany in
April, 1917, President Wilson appointed Herbert Hoover
National Food Administrator in the interest of food c
vation, not only for c
own benefit but for the ;
of our
was boi
allies. Mr. Hoover
n in West Branch,
Iowa, on August 10, IS74,
but losing his mother
through death when he was
I 1 years old he was sent to
livewithhisuncle. Dr. H. J,
Minthorn, in Newberg, Ore-
gon. Herbert Hoover was
one of the first students to
register in Pacific Academy
at Newberg, as a few years
later he was one of the first
to register as a student at
Stanford University. In
1886 Dr. Minthorn moved
to Salem and became an ac
tive promoter of real estate
enterprises and young Hoo-
ver served as a boy of all
vfork in the office; milking the
and driving prospective purchasi
he became a student at Stanford University, graduating
from that institution in 1893. After spending a fe^ months
in the U. S. Geological Survey and two years at mining en-
gineering in Eastern Oregon, Idaho and California, he was
appointed engineering adviser of the Chinese govemiuent.
HEBBEBT HOOVEK
ow, caring for the horses,
s about the country. Later
326 HISTORY OF OREGON
After a short sojourn in CsJifomia he returned to China
\^ere he became director of an undertaking 'which employed
25,000 men and involved the management of 20 ships, 'with
a system of canals and railways, used for the development
of coal mines.
After a few years in developing mines in Alaska, India,
Russia and Australia, Herbert Hoover was appointed the
head of a commission to direct the expenditure of $300,-
000,000 for the relief of Belgium and for the distribution of
foodstuffs amounting in value to $200,000,000 which w^as
raised in Europe.
Mr. Hoover had shown such remarkable efficiency in
the performance of these tremendous tasks that he was se-
lected by President Wilson to take charge of a similar under-
taking when the United States entered the world war. Since
the necessity of largely supplying our allies with food rests
upon the United States, the problems of saving: and properly
distributing our food production were of colossal propor-
tions, but the unusual executive ability displaved by Mr.
Hoover during his remarkable career at once directed atten-
tion to him, and he has since maintained his reputation as a
far-seeing man, reinforced by firmness, tact and a wide ex-
perience.
Deepest Canyon in the World. Oregon and Idaho
share the possession of the deepest canyon in the world. It
is called the Snake River Canyon. In some respects it is
more remarkable than the Grand Canyon of the Colorado,
which it surpasses in depth. Yet little is known of Snake
River Canyon, because few have explored it.
Location and Description. The most rugged portion
of Snake River Canyon lies between the Seven Devils Range
EPOCH V.
327
in Idaho and the Wallowa
Mountains in Oregon.
This section of the canyon
is from 6,000 to 7,000 feet
deep and about seven miles
wide on top. At one place
there is a sheer slope from
a sno^V'Capped peak of the
Seven Devils Range, having
an elevation of 9,000 feet
to the river, which itself has
an elevation of 1,600 feet.
In that section of the gorge
which is locally called "Box
Canyon," a vertical wall
rises directly from the river
on both sides to an eleva-
tion of 2,000 to 3.000 feet.
To the student of geology
Snake River Canyon pre-
sents another feature of in-
terest in the cross section of 7,000 feet of the earth's crust.
The uppermost layers of the section are composed of lava
rock known as basalt, which but a comparatively recent
geologic time ago poured out over this northwestern country
in enormous fiery floods, filling the valleys that existed at
that time, and here and there covered mountain peaks.
The older rocks are mineralized in many localities. Hence
there are mines and prospects on both sides of the river in
these old formations — one of which is the Iron Dike Mine,
at Homestead, which produces $1,000,000 worth of cop-
per, gold and silver annually.
Difficult of Access. When the first white men came to
Oregon, Indians cautioned them against descending this
portion of the Snake River by rafts or boats. In this the
328 HISTORY OF OREGON
Indians proved to be the friends of the white men; for as
was afterwards learned the route was too rugged for travel.
At present, the gorge here described may be approached
either from Homestead by a difficult wagon road and horse
trail, or ftom Lewiston by a high-power launch which as-
cends the one hundred miles of whirl pools, swirls, and
rapids in two or three days and returns in four hours. No
craft has passed up through the gorge, although sturdy
mountaineers by creeping 'neath overhanging walls, crossing
a dangerous crevass, pursuing narrow trails along steep
ledges, and surmounting countless other obstacles, accom-
plish the journey. Such has been the lot of the ex-
plorers of the gorge royal of the Snake River. But when
Oregon and Idaho increase sufficiently in wealth and popu-
lation they doubtless will unite in providing some practical
route^ of travel to and through Snake River Canyon which
will be extensively patronized by American and foreign
wonder seekers. — G. E. Goodspeed, Dept. of Geology,
Oregon Agri. College.
"Billy" Sunday. Rev. William Ashley Sunday, com-
monly known as **Billy" Sunday, is the Premier of Ameri-
can Evangelists. During the year 1 896 he received from
1,000 to 5,000 conversions a month. In late years he has
been engaged continuously in evangelistic service, meeting
with remarkable success in many of the largest cities of the
United States. It is probable that he has preached to more
people than any other man since the days of John the
A preliminary survey for a railroad through Snake River Can-
yon connecting Homestead with Lewiston has been made; but on
account of the enormous expense involved, the project has been
temporarily abandoned. Should the railroad be eventually con-
structed, it would convey sightseekers through a gorge of unique
scenery, also afford water grade transportation from the inter-
mountain region immediately west of the Rocky Mountains to
Portland and the Pacific Ocean.
EPOCH V.
329
Baptist. In early life Mr.
Sunday waS a professional
baseball player. From
1883 to 1890 he played
with the Chicago, Pitts-
burg, and Philadelphia
teams of the National
League. He preaches
with the same vim and en-
thusiasm that he mani-
fested in playing baseball
— with his coat off and his
sleeves rolled up. He was
masterful as a baseball
player and he is masterful
in the pulpit. His career
from the diamond to the
decalogue has been mar-
velous. As an evangelist
ihis duties call him to all
parts of the United States; but when seeking rest from his
arduous tasks he comes to his beautiful home in the Hood
River Valley where he renews his strength and refreshes
his energies by communing with Nature in the shadow of
Mt. Hood.
Oregon Social Hygiene Society. The glory of a
State lies in the strength and purity of her pepple. In
this respect, Oregon is probably pre-eminent. This in-
ference is made from data giving the per cent of diseased
draftees in the recent war as taken from a cheirt issued
by the United States Public Health Service, Washington,
D. C, in 1918. According to the chart of all states in
the Union, Oregon has the lowest per cent, and Florida
right, Underwood & Under
"BILLY" SUNDAY
HISTORY OF OREGON
the highest per cent of
are here given:
Oregon
nmorally afflicted. Six of the states
1.63%
3.24%
lo-
Ohic
Georgia 5.60%
South Carolina 8.04%
Florida 8.90%
It is a remarkable coincidence that Oregon, which is
reputed for the purity of her men, was the first slate to or-
ganize a society for the promotion of sex education. In-
1910, some men organized the Oregon Social Hygiene So-
ciety in Portland. Until that time there had been a con-
spiracy of silence concerning matters of vital importance
regarding health and purtty. Young men and women were
EPOCH V.
331
pennitted to grow up in ignorance of the causes and con-
sequences of certain loathsome diseases; and quack doctors .
were preying upon the victims of immorality to an alarming
degree. The newly organized society secured the co-opera-
tion of the Portland "Oregonian," which, at a tremendous
sacrifice, discontinued quack advertisements. Other news-
papers did likewise. The legislature made it a felony to
advertise so-called cures for venereal diseases. Quack doc-
tors went out of business. Public meetings v^ere held for
both sexes in the cities and towns of the State. The move-
ment spread to other states; and today the Social Hygiene
Society which originated in Oregon has become national.
The mother society, which was supported by a few philan-
thropists is now supported by the State, and Oregon, the
first in the movement, stands out first among all the states
in the Union in the low per cent of diseases brought on by
immorality.
The Pacific Highway. No matter how extensive the
means of transportation by fail may become, the need of
FAOinC HIGHWAY DBSCEIBEB A LOOP IN WHICH IT 0BO8SBB ITSELF
AND A DOUBLE TBAOK BAILBOAD. Eleratloii, l.GOO fau;
locRtlon, noctb Blap« of Sliklron Haautftlni.
332
HISTORY OF OREGON
good wagon roads will al^vays be present; and it was ivith
this thought uppermost that the proposition to construct a
roadway for vehicles across the state of Oregon from Port-
land to the California line was conceived and set forth by a
few men, who may be called public benefactors. The project
includes, in the course of time, a road along the coast;
another through the Willamette Valley and another east
of the Cascade Range. Certain public-spirited individuals
have provided signs, which have been erected along the
route chosen through Western Oregon; and the further
promotion of the project is largely left to the counties
through ^hich the roads are to pass. Many counties have
taken up the work, and have accomplished some note-
worthy improvements The dream of the Pacific Highivay
has (1918) been practically realized as all the heavy grades
are under construction and ^11 soon be eliminated. Sub-
stantial progress is also being made on the Coast Highway
through Tillamook and Clatsop Counties and this road is
passable along the entire coast for light vehicles.
The Columbia River High-
way. No greater instance of
genuine public spirit has been
given during the history of
Oregon than that shown by
the people of Multnomah
county when they expended
the sum of $3,250,000
for the purpose of construct-
ing and paving the Columbia
River Highway, through
Multnomah county to the
Hood River county line, a
distance of 63 miles. The
former county had voted an
L AT HITCHED' 8
EPOCH V.
333
annual tax providing for the survey and grading of such
a Toad. But the intention was to construct it along the
tracks of the O. W. R. & N. Railroad Company, which
organization had secured an injunction against such a step.
It was at this stage of the proceedings that Samuel Hill, of
Maryhit], Washington, a not-
ed good roads enthusiast,
had a vision of a popular
scenic highway that would
capitalize the unequaled
beauty of the Columbia
Gorge "Where Rolls the
Oregon." He presented the
matter to the court of Mult-
nomah County with the re-
sult that the route was
changed, the injunction suit
was withdrawn, and within
two years a highway was
constructed and covered
with a hard surface.
The Columbia Highway which extends from the Pacific
Ocean to Umatilla is 290 miles in length. The highest point
is 23 miles from Portland and its elevation is 725 feet above
the Columbia River. It is called Crown Point. Here the
Vista House, an imposing architectural monument, has been
erected at a cost of $90,000. The grade of the highway
nowhere exceeds five per cent and no curve has a radius
shorter than 100 feet. All the bridges — and there are
scores of them — are made of re-enforced concrete and
have a minimum mdth of twenty-four feet. Upon- pass-
ing over the Columbia River Highway, Major General
George W. Goethals, builder of the Panama Canal said,
'The Columbia River Highway is a splendid job of engi-
334
HISTORY OF OREGON
neering, and absolutely without equal in America for
scenic interest," Visitors who traversed the Alps and
, have enjoyed the picturesque
Hudson declare the grandeur
of the panorama displayed
from many points on the
Columbia Highway to be as
inspiring as the earth affords,
if Lewis and Clark, or the
Oregon Pioneers of the early
forties could have caught a
glimpse of this modem tri-
amph of engineering and en-
terprise through a vision,
they would haVe doubted
their sight and questioned
their sanity.
Interstate Bridge. When
Lieutenant Brought on, in
1 792, sailed up the Colum-
bia, he observed Indians in
canoes crossing the river near
the present site of Vancou-
ver. Again in 1824, when
J the Hudson's Bay Company
I FALLS established the Vancou-
ver trading post, Indians in large numbers from the
South ^ere encouraged by Doctor McLoughlin to encamp on
the south bank of the Columbia, so that they might come
in convenient numbers across the river to trade. With the in-
crease of white settlers in the Willamette Valley, the crossing
place at Vancouver grew in importance and a modern ferry
was established. In the belief that a wagon bridge across the
Columbia would increase communication between the two
growing states of Oregon and Washington, the counties of
EPOCH V.
335
Multnomah, in Oregon, and Clarke, in Washington, jointly
constructed a bridge across the Columbia River at Vancou-
ver, it being finished and thrown open to traffic on February
14, 1917, the fifty-eighth anniversary of the admission of
IHTEBSTATE WAOOK BBIDOE
Oregon into the Union. Miiltnomah County appropriated
$1,250,000 for this purpose, and Clarice County $500.-
000. . The bridge is a Y-shaped structure with a lift span
of 275 feet. The entire length of the bridge including its
approaches is four and a half miles, the main part con-
sisting of 1 3 steel spans — three of which are 275 feet
long, each, and the others being ten feet shorter — reach-
ing in all approximately two-thirds of a mile. The bridge
has a paved roadway of 38 feet in width, has a five foot
sidewalk on one side and is the only wagon bridge span-
ning the Columbia river between the states of Oregon and
336
HISTORY OF OREGON
Washington. The traffic crossing this magnificent struc-
ture has grown immensely and the income from the tolls
already much more than pays the interest on the bonds
which provided for its building. It will prove a great in-
fluence in increasing the commercial and social life between
these t^o great commonwealths.
F TREES IN THE C
BUbmergsd during the blgh water
In the backfironnd. — Photo
Columbia River Natural Bridge. While the Colum-
bia is spanned by the Interstate Wagon Bridge and by
railway bridges, many believe that there was at one lime
a natural bridge connecting what are now Oregon and
Washington. This belief has existed among the whites
for a century. It probably arose from the Indian legend
concerning the "Bridge of the Gods." Overton Johnson
EPOCH V . 337
and William Winter of the emigration of 1843, in their
book entitled, **Route Across the Rocky Mountains and a
Description of Oregon and California," describe that sec-
tion of the Columbia river where the **Bridge of the Gods"
is said to have stood.
Standing Trees in the Columbia. They said: "We
found the trees standing erect in ten or fifteen feet of
water as if a dam had beeen thrown across the [Colum-
bia] River, and the water backed up over its natural shores.
We asked the Indians if they knew how these stumps came
to occupy their present position, but none of them was
able to inform us. They have a tradition among them
that long ago the Columbia in some parts ran under
ground, and that during an eruption of Mount St. Helens^
the bridge fell in. ... A short distance below
Wascopin Mission (The Dalles) and the Rapids of the
Great Dalles, we found the first of these submerged stumps.
They increased in number as we descended the River, as
is always the case wherever there has been an impediment
thrown into the channel of a stream so as to raise the
water over its natural shores. Immediately above the
Wascopin Mission and at least as far up as Fort Wallula, the
river is full of falls and rapids. Such also we believe to
have been the original character of the river below where
we find at the present time these stumps and an entire lack
of current, as this portion of it includes the breach through
the Cascade Mountains the most rugged country perhaps
through which the Columbia flows. If these stumps and
trees (for many of them are still sixty or seventy feet
above the water in the river) had been brought into the
present position by land slides as Captain Fremont sug-
iMount St. Helens, a lofty snow-capped volcano rises from
the plains, and is now (1846) burning. Frequently the huge col-
umns of black smoke may be seen suddenly bursting from its
crater, at the distance of forty miles." — ^Johnson and Winter.
338 HISTORY OF OREGON
gests, it seems to us to be a matter of course that the most
of those which were not thrown down by the motion and
agitation would have been standing in various inclined posi-
tions. But on the contrary we find them all standing erect.
And again it is probable that the slides were very nearly
simultaneous, as the trees are all about in the same state
of preservation. The most of them stand opposite where
we consider the shores too gradual to admit of a slide."
Geological Explanation. Many modern scientists do
not find sufficient evidence to justify the conclusion that
the Columbia was once spanned by a natural bridge. Among
them is Ira A. Williams, Geologist for the Oregon Bureau
of Mines and Geology. After a thorough examination of
the Columbia from The Dalles to the mouth of the river, he
reports: ** Above the Cascades for miles there are in places
erect stumps of trees that were obviously killed by the en-
croachment of the water about their base, just as would
happen were an obstruction unexpectedly thrown across the
river at some point below. That the low water level of the
Columbia above its cascades was remarkably raised for a
time there seems little question. Whether it has receded
since to any considerable extent can be said only after a
more detailed study of it than has been made. That the
cause was the choking of its channel by a barrier at the site
of the present cascades available evidence seems to point.
And not beyond the range of reality is the possibility that
at one time this barrier may have constituted the causeway
about which grew the enchanting tale of the Indian maiden
Lowit and the contesting rivals for her hand. But far from
fabulous* *Bridge of the Gods" was this, rather instead — plain
tottering blocks of lava and a crumbling, sloughing clay-
stained bouldery assemblage from yon proud cliff was its
make up, over the rise or fall of which, in our humble judg-
ment, inexorable gravity, not Sahale the Great Indian Spirit,
exercised complete control."
EPOCH V. 339
Conclusion. Mythology is only the dream of history.
While the Bridge of the Gods has not been proved to be
more than a pretty legend taken by the white man from
Indian folk lore, there may some time be unearthed further
evidence that such a bridge across the Columbia did exist.
But from evidence thus far produced Professor Williams
is of the opinion that *'It is possible that Indians may have
crossed the Columbia by means of boulders and other
larger rock masses at the site of the Cascade rapids, and
that this may have given rise to the tradition of a natural
bridge that spanned the river."
Congressmen from Oregon. The following is a list of
congressional delegates and representatives chosen from
Oregon since January 6, 1 849 :
Delegates. Samuel R. Thurston, January 6, 1849-
April 9, 1 85 1 ; Joseph Lane, June 2, 1 85 1 -February 1 4. 1 859.
Representatives. Lafayette Grover, February 15,
1859-March 3, 1859; Lansing Stout, March 4, 1859-March
3. 1861; George K. Shiel, March 4, 1 861 -March 3, 1863;
John R. McBride, March 4, 1863-March 3, 1865; J. H. D.
Henderson, March 4, 1865-March 3, 1867; Rufus Mallory,
March 4, 1867-March 3, 1869; Joseph S. Smith, March 4.
1869-March 3, 1871; James H. Slater, March 4, 1871-
March 3, 1873; Joseph G. Wilson^ March 4, 1873; James
W. Nesmith, March 4, 1873-March 3, 1875; George A.
LaDow\ March 4, 1 875 ; Lafayette Lane, October 25, 1 875-
March 31, 1877; Richard Williams, March 4. 1877-
March 3, 1879; John Whiteaker, March 4, 1879-
March 3, 1881; M. C. George. March 4, 1881 -March
3, 1885; Binger Herman, March 4. 1885-March 3, 1893;
Binger Herman, March 4, 1893-March 3, 1897; W. R. Ellis,
March 4, 1893-March 3, 1899; Thomas H. Tongue, March
4, 1897-March 3, 1905; Malcolm A. Moody, March 4,
1899-March3, 1903; Binger Herman, March 4, 1903-March
3, 1907; J . N. Williamson. March 4, 1903-March 3. 1907;
iDied before qualifying.
340 HISTORY OF OREGON
W. C Hawley, March 4, 1907-March 3, 1921 ; W. R. Ellis.
March 4. 1907-March 3. 1911; A. W. Lafferty. March 4.
1911 -March 3. 1 9 1 5 ; N. J. Sinnot. March 4,191 3-March 3.
1 92 1 ; C. N. McArthur, March 4. 1 9 I 5-March 3. 1921.
U. S. Senators from Oregon. The following are the U.
5. Senators chosen to represent Oregon at Washington :
Delazon Smith, February 14, 1859-March 3, 1859;
Joseph Lane, February 14, 1859-March 3, 1861 ; Edward D.
Baker, March 4, 186 1 -October 21, 1861; Benjamin Stark,
October 21, 1861 -September 11, 1862; Benjamin Harding,
September II, 1862-March 3, 1865; James W. Nesmith,
March 4, 1861 -March 3, 1867; George H. Williams, March
4, 1865-March3, 1871; Henry W. Corbett, March 4, 1867-
March 3, 1873; James K. Kelly, March 4, 1 871 -March 3,
1877; John H. Mitchell, March 4, 1873-March 3, 1879;
Lafayette Grover, March 4, 1877-March 3, 1883; James H.
Slater, March 4, 1879-March 3, 1885; Joseph N. Dolph,
March 4, 1883-March 3, 1889; John H. Mitchell, March 4,
1885-March 3, 1891; Joseph N. Dolph, March 4, 1889-
March 3, 1895; John H. Mitchell, March 4, 1891 -March 3,
1897; George W. McBride, March 4, 1895-March 3, 1901 ;
Henry W. Corbett\ March 4, 1897; Joseph Simon, October
6, 1898-March 3, 1903; John H. Mitchell, March 4, 1901-
December 8, 1905; Charles W. Fulton, March 4, 1903-
March 3, 1909;John M. Gearin-, December 12, 1905-Janu-
ary 23, 1907; Fred W. Mulkey, January 23, 1907-March
3, 1907; December 10, 191 8-December 17, 1918; Jonathan
Bourne, Jr., March 4, 1907-March 3, 1913; George E.
Chamberjain, March 4, 1909-March 3, 1915; Harry Lane,
March 4, 1913-May 23, 1917; George E. Chamberlain,
March 4, 191 5-March 3, 1921; Charles L. McNa^y^ May
29, 1917-March 3. 1925.
• »
iThe United States Senate refused to seat Mr. Corbett, appointed
by Governor Lord.
2Appointed to succeed John H. Mitchell, who died December 8,
1905. sAppointed to succeed Harry Lane, who died May 23, 1918.
CHAPTER XIV 34 i
OREGON LITERATURE
All literature writes the character of the wise man. — Emerson.
The lamp of literature was a long time coming from
Egypt to Oregon. Ages ago wise men passed the lamp from
Egypt to Phoenicia, thence to Athens, thence to Rome,
thence to London, thence to Boston; and before the close
of the last century the Oregon Pilgrims brought it with them
to the new land which they occupied and planted. Hence
the rays from the Egyptian lamp of letters came to be traced
in the literature of Phoenicia, of Greece, of Rome, of Eng-
land, of New England and of Western America.
And the historic lamp shone so bright in the Far West
that the makers of Oregon produced in half a century more
standard literature than did all the Thirteen Colonies in their
first half century. It is, therefore, but fair to conclude
that the education of Oregon people — more particularly the
teachers — is not complete without some knowledge of Ore-
gon literature.
Furthermore, in Epoch I, mention was made of Indian
Folk Lore as the highest type of literary and intellectual
endeavor among the savages before the coming of the white
man. It will be of historical value, therefore, to give a few
glimpses of the literature of the present, in order that the
reader may fully understand the remarkable transition that
took place in Oregon under civilization. However, the au-
thors selected for mention in the limited space allotted to
Chapter XIV are but a few of those who caught the rays
from the old Egyptian lamp of literature that eame by way of
Greece and Rome to shine incandescent in Oregon.
SAMUEL L. SIMPSON
Samuel Leonidas Simpson, the author of "The Gold-
Gated Weat," has been called the "Burns of Oregon."
"His father was bom in Tennessee on March 29, 1818,
of Scotch ancestry. His mother was a granddaughter of Col.
Cooper, a companion of Daniel Boone in Kentucky. Sam. L.
Simpson crossed the plains to Oregon with his parents in
1846. His mother taught him the alphabet when he was
four years old by tracing letters in the ashes on the hearth-
stone of the primitive cabin in Marion County in which the
family lived. The first poems he ever read were selections
from a worn volume of Robert Burns which was presented to
Samuel L. Simpson's mother by Dr. John McLoughlin, at
Oregon City, where the Simpson family spent the first winter.
An occasional country school of
three months in the year afforded
the only opportunity the boy had
for education until he was fifteen
years old. Then he was em-
ployed as clerk in the sutler's store j
of his father at Fort Yamhill,
military post near the Grand
Ronde Indian Reservation. Here
he became acquainted with Lieut.
Phil Sheridan (afterwards Gen-
eral), who gave him a copy of
Byron's poems. When sixteen
years old Samuel Simpson en-
tered Willamette University, Sa-
lem, where he graduated in 1865.
Soon afterwards he became edi- »"•■ ^ simpbon
tor of the Oregon "Statesman," continuing in that relation
until the close of ) 866. He was admitted to the bar in 1 867,
and began practicing; but clients were few and the profession
of law was not to his liking; hence he entered the journalistic
profession which he followed the remainder of his life, writ-
SAMUEL L. SIMPSON 343
ing numerous poems. **Ad[ Willametam,'* or **Beautiful Wil-
lamette," as it is generally known, was written while the poet
was a resident of Albany. It first appeared in the **Demo-
crat" in that city, April 1 8, 1 868.
**Samuel L. Simpson was married to Miss Julia Hum-
phrey, of Portland, in 1868, who bore him two sons. He
died in Portland June 1 4, 1 900, and was buried in Lone Fir
Cemetery.*' — George H. Himes .
Upon the death of the poet, his poems were edited with
an introductory preface by W. T. Burney, and published by
the J. B. Lippincott Company in a very attractive volume
entitled **The Gold-Gated West.'* Referring to Simpson's
masterful pen, Joaquin Miller said: **Simpson*s 'Beautiful
Willamette* is the most musical poem written on the Pacific
Coast."
344 OREGON LITERATURE
BEAUTIFUL WILLAMETTE
From the Cascades* frozen gorges,
Leaping like a child at play,
Winding, widening through the valley,
Bright Willamette glides away;
Onward ever.
Lovely river.
Softly calling to the sea.
Time, that scars us.
Maims and mars us,
Leaves no track or trench on thee.
Spring's green witchery is weaving
Braid and border for thy side;
Grace forever haunts thy journey.
Beauty dimples on thy tide;
Through the purple gates of morning
Now thy roseate ripples dance.
Golden then, when day, departing.
On thy waters trails his lance.
Waltzing, flashing.
Tinkling, splashing.
Limpid, volatile, and free —
Always hurried
To be buried
In the bitter, moon-mad sea.
In thy crystal deeps inverted
Swings a picture of the sky,
Like those wavering hopes of Aidenn,
Dimly in our dreams that lie;
Clouded often, drowned in turmoil,
Faint and lovely, far away —
Wreathing sunshine on the morrow
Breathing fragrance round today.
Love would wander
Here and ponder.
Hither poetry would dream;
Life's old questions.
Sad suggestions.
Whence and whither? throng thy stream.
SAMUEL L. SIMPSON 345
On the roaring waste of ocean
Shall thy scattered waves be tossed,
'Mid the surge's rhythmic thunder
Shall thy silver tongues be lost.
O! thy glimmering rush of gladness
Mocks this turbid life of mine!
Racing to the wild Forever
Down the sloping paths of Time!
Onward ever,
Lovely river,
Softly calling to the sea;
Time that scars us,
Maims and mars us.
Leaves no track or trench on thee.
SNOWDRIFT
Tenderly, patiently falling, the snow
Whitens the gloaming, and in the street's glow
Spectrally beautiful, drifts to the earth —
Pale in life's brightness, and still in its mirth ;
Swarming and settling like spirits of bees
Blown from the blossoms of song-haunted trees —
Blown with the petals of dreams we have known,
Rosy with heart dews of days that are gone.
Spirits of flow^ers, and spectres of bees —
Emblems of toil and its guerdon are these —
Thrown to us silently — cold, and so fair —
From the gardens that gleam in the regions of air;
As if the high heavens that gathered our sighs
Wept for the promise the future denies; —
Dreamingly lifted the glowing bouquet.
Sweet with life's longing, and tossed it away!
Soft as the touch of the white-handed moon
Wreathing the world in a twilight of June,
Gently and lovingly hastens the snow —
Weaving a veil for dead nature below;
Kissing the stains from the hpof-beaten street,
Folding the town in a slumber so sweet,
Surely the stars, in their helmets of gold.
Pensively linger and love to behold.
346 OREGON LITERATURE
Thus our endeavor may fail of its prize-
Hope and ambition drop cold from our skies ;
Yet on the pathway, so lonely and drear,
Rugged with failure and clouded by fear,
Spirits of beauty come out of defeat.
Cover life's sorrows and shield its retreat —
Healing the heart as the fall of the snow
Brightens the darkness of winter below.
O, when the Angel of Silence has brushed
Me with his wings, and this pining is hushed.
Tenderly, graciously, light as the snow.
Fall the kind mention of all that I know —
Words that will cover and whiten the sod,
Folding the life that was given of God; —
Wayward may be, the persistent to rove —
Restful, at last, in the glamour of love!
OREGON RAIN
It is raining, raining, raining!
And my spirit darkly rues
All the pleasures that are waning
In a carnival of blues.
For the constant drone and sputter
Of the shower seems to mutter
Memories of Noah's cruise!
Surely neither navigation.
Irrigation, or oblation.
Nor the final conflagration
Such a streaming flood requires.
Nor the gentle mitigation
Of the regulation ration
Of the lurid liquid fire!
Lo, there's something awful in it —
And I'll tell you in a minute
Of a fancy, damp and dire.
From some planet's spectral stare —
Down, and down, within the hollow
Womb of seas where bright Apollo
Never drifts his yellow hair
O'er the rising blush of mom —
Nor the moon to any maiden
SAMUEL L. SIMPSON 347
Pours the silv'ry dream of Aidenn
From her lily wreathen horn,
Earth has .fallen as of old,
In the dying baron's wassail,
Fell the wine-flushed cup of gold.
Round about the dripping shrouds
Of the weary dreary clouds
In the charnel of the deep,
Where the toiling globe of ocean
Swings in dark, mysterious motion
Round a misty realm of sleep;
And a silence, dim, eternal.
Hushes all the march of time; —
Only ever and forever,
Like the wail of some lone river,
Fraught with sorrow strange, supernal,
Mourn the clouds, in ceaseless rhyme.
As they ever weep and weep;
Fallen world of wrong and sorrow.
Never hope for brighter morrow —
Doom has met thee at the tryst!
In the glamour of thy dreaming
Thro* the ivory-gated East;
With the red and purple feast
Of the roses he has kissed!
For the gold-browed stars have faced them
Off to other loves and wars,
And the sparkling crest of Venus
That so often flashed between us
Turns along the trail of Mars,
O, the years shall wane and sicken.
And the turbid clouds shall thicken.
In the lonely lapse of time.
Till the cavern gloom of sea
Fills, anon, with massy waters.
And Willamette's sons and daughters
Rise to other lives sublime
In an ocean broad and free!
O the changes, slow, dramatic.
Of the gloomy world terrene —
Merging still to shapes aquatic
As the ages shift the scene.
Till the rustling woods that quiver
Sweet with every sigh and sound,
348 OREGON LITERATURE
Never wake again, and never
Song of bird is heard around;
And the music and the beauty.
Toil and battle, love and duty.
Of the bright terrestial space
Shall be hushed and chilled and faded
In the ghostly deeps invaded
By a cold and silent race;
O thy hamlets of the meadows;
And thy cities of the plain; —
Have we not their fates and shadows
In the sunny tropic main?
Coral cities, wall and tower,
Temples, arches, tree and flower.
Wrought with all the soul of art!
And the fishes, gold and scarlet —
Silver-mailed, and purple-barred,
Shine, like idle orient people,
*Mong the columns, flushed and starred;
And a myriad shapes of terror.
Dumb as death and black as error.
Loiter slow in street and isle
Or in slumber's horrid semblance
Lure their prey with hellish smile.
Thus forever and forever.
Till the sad sea songs are sung.
Name or fame of thee shall never
Live on human lip or tongue;
Set within the dim recesses
Of the ocean's wildernesses
Shall thy sculptured city shine,
And the gold of mermaid tresses
Match the emerald of thine!
And I sit and look and listen.
While the pathos of the rain
And the streaming tears that glisten
On the misty window pane
'Weave a sadness in my fancy
And a horror in my brain!
Ah, believe me, land of apples.
Swarming hives, and matchless grain,
'Tis a fate that with thee grapples
In the sobbing of the rain;
SAMUEL L. SIMPSON 349
And its ceaseless hum and patter
Is the many million clatter
Of a vast surrounding main, —
Beating, beating, nor retreating
Till its hoof prints weld the chain
Of a people — fleeting, fleeting
Into ocean's finny main.
THE FEAST OF APPLE BLOOM
When the sky is a dream of violet
And the days are rich with gold.
And the satin robe of the earth is set
With the jewels wrought of old ;
When the woodlands wave in choral seas
And the purple mountains loom.
It is heaven to come with birds and bees
To the feast of apple bloom.
For the gabled roof of the home arose
O'er the sheen of the orchard snow,
And is still my shrine when storms repose
And the gnarly branches blow;
While the music of childhood's singing heart,
That was lost in the backward gloom.
May be heard when the robins meet and part
At the feast of apple bloom.
And I think when the trees display a crown
Like the gleam of a resting dove.
Of a face that was framed in tresses brown
And aglow with a mother's love;
At the end of the orchard path she stands.
While I laugh at my manhood's doom.
As my spirit flies with lifted hands
To the feast of apple bloom.
When the rainbow paths of faded skies
Are restored with the diamond rain.
And the joys of my wasted paradise
Are returning to earth again,
It is sadder than death to know how brief
Are the smiles that the dead assume;
But a moment allowed, a flying leaf
From the feast of apple bloom,
350 OREGON LITERATURE
But a golden arch forever shines
In the dim and darkening past,
Where I stand again as day declines,
And the world is bright and vast;
For the glory that lies along the lane
Is endeared with sweet perfume
And the world is ours, and we are twain
At the feast of apple bloom.
She was more than fair in the wreath she wore
Of the creamy buds and blows.
And she comes to me from the speechless shore
When the flowering orchard glows;
And I sigh for the dreams so sweet and swift,
That are laid in a sacred tomb —
Yet are nothing at least but fragrant drift
From the feast of apple bloom.
THE NYMPHS OF THE CASCADES
The campfire, like a red night rose,
Blossomed beneath a gloomy fir
When weary men, in deep repose,
Heard not the gentle night wind stir
Her priestly robes high overhead.
Heard not the wild brook's wailing song
Nor any nameless sounds of dread
Which to the midnight woods belong.
The moon sailed on, a golden bark
Astray in lilied purple seas.
While forest shadows, weirdly dark.
Were peopled with all mysteries;
And all was wild and drear and strange
Around that lonely bivouac,
Where mountains, rising range on range.
Shouldered the march of progress back.
The red fire's fluttering tongues of flame
Whispered to brooding darkness there.
While spectral shapes without a name
Were hovering in th^ haunted air;
SAMUEL L. SIMPSON 35 1
And from the fir tree's inner shade,
A drear owl, sobbing forth his rune.
Kept watch, and mournful homage paid
At intervals unto the moon.
The travelers dreamed on serene,
Save one alone, whose brow, curl-swept.
Was damp from agony within;
Who tossed and murmured as he slept.
The fitful firelight on his face
Wavered and danced in elfin play,
Where all the youth's enchanting grace
As light as dreams upon him lay.
The glamour of the rosy light
The heavy lines of care concealed,
And trembling shadows of the night
Beyond him, like sad spirits, kneeled;
For his had been the lustrous gift
Of genius, lent by God to few,
The splendid jewel wrought by swift
Angelic art of fire and dew.
But like the pearl of Egypt's queen,
'Twas drowned in Pleasure's crimson cup,
And lo, its amethystine sheen.
In baleful vapors curling up.
Soon wreathed his brain in that dark spell
That has no kindred seal of woe,
As phantoms, that in Orcus dwell.
In mystic dance swept to and fro.
Swept to and fro and maddened him
With gestures wild and taunts and jeers.
And waved the withered chaplets dim
That he had worn in flowery years;
His spirit furled its shining wings.
Never again to sing and soar.
And wove all wild imaginings
In shapes of horror evermore.
The sleeper started, raised his head,
Upon his elbow leaned awhile.
And gazed where deepest night overspread.
With wistful eyes and brightening smile.
352 OREGON LITERATURE
"I hear sweet music far away
The mountain nymphs are calling me!**
He murmured. "How divine a lay,
O soul of mine, is wooing thee!**
"Coming!** he whispered and arose,
And gropingly reached forth a hand,
As if another's to enclose.
Some ghostly guidance to command —
And lo! into the heavy night,
As led by forms unseen, he fled
Far from the waning firelight
Into the canyons dark and dread.
'Twas years ago, but trace or track
Of him has never yet been found.
For Echo only answered back
The hunter's call and baying hound;
Forever lost untract, unseen.
In the upheaved and wild Cascades,
Forever lost, untract, unseen,
A shadow now among the shades.
From some snow-wreathed and shining peak
His soul swam starward long ago.
And now no more we vainly seek
The secret of his fate to know;
While fires of sunset and of dawn
Flame red and fade on many a height.
The mystery will not be withdrawn
From him, long lost from human sight.
And yet I sometimes sit and dream
Of him, my schoolmate and my friend,
As wand'ring where bright waters gleam.
In some sweet life that has no end —
Within the Cascades' inner walls.
Where nymphs, beyond all fancy fair,
Soothe him with siren madrigals.
And deck him with their golden hair.
SAMUEL L. SIMPSON 353
TO-NIGHT
When the stars gather in beauty to-night,
Grlorious, love-litten — a heaven in bloom —
Somewhere, astray, in a sorrowful plight.
Earth will be dreamingly toiling towards doom;
And the myriads at rest
On her storm-stricken breast.
Rocked into dreams, will be never afraid
Tho' stars marching over and stars streaming under,
Filling the deep with a pageant of wonder,
Guard and attend her with godlike parade.
When the sJiars gather in splendor to-night.
Darkness, O Planet, will cover thy face —
Death-ridden darkness, in shapes that affright,
Black with the curses that blacken our race !
And the mist, like the ghost,
Of a hope that is lost.
Strangely will hover o'er fields that are bare;
And the seas, at whose heart the old sorrow is throbbing
Restless and hopeless, eternally sobbing —
Madly will kneel in a tempest of prayer.
When the stars gather in armor, to-night,
Planet of wailing, thy fate shall be read!
Steal like a nun under scourge from their sight,
Gather thy sorrows, like robes, to thy head!
For the vestal white rose
Of the crystalline snows
Coldly has sealed thee to silence unblessed;
And the red rose is dead in thy gardens of pleasure —
Forests, like princes bereft of all treasure,
Rise and upbraid thee, skeleton jest!
When the stars gather in vengeance to-night,
Gibbering history, too, will arise,
Rustling her garments of mildew and blight,
Only to curse thee, O mother of lies!
With thy goblet all drained.
And thy wanton lip stained —
Singing wild songs where all ruin appears —
What Shalt thou say of this dust that was glory.
Dust that beseeches thee still with a story.
Deep in whose silence are rivers of tears?
354 OREGON LITERATURE
When the stars gather in triumph, to-night,
Raining their joy thro' the chill and the gloom.
Only one jewel, an emblem of light.
Marvelous planet, thy crest shall illume!
It was Calvary's first,
And its white lustre burst
Wide and resplendent, a dawn and a day!
Clasp it and keep it, O princeland of heaven.
The deep-bosomed worlds for that signal have striven-
Aeons of wrong shall not wrest it away!
When the stars gather in chorus to-night.
Singing the lullaby song of our Lord,
Childhood shall come to us, dimpled and bright.
Kissed by His promise, and fed by His word;
And our fears shall depart,
And our anguish of heart,
Rending us darkly the lengthy years through!
And the dust of the perished shall blossom, and beauty
(Jarland the lowliest pathways of duty.
Rich with the hopes that our spirits renew.
MRS. ELLA HIGGINSON
"Ah, me! I know how like a golden flower
The Grand Ronde Valley lies this August night,
Locked in with dimpled hills where purple light
Lies wavering.'
f»
Hius wrote Mrs. Ella Higginson of her childhood home.
Bom at Council Grove, Kansas, she crossed the plains while
an infant, and with her parents located at LaGrande, Ore-
gon. Her name was Ella Rhodes. With her parents she
moved to Oregon Gty and attended the Oregon City Semi-
nary. Later she moved to Portland, and married Mr. Rus-
sell C. Higginson, with whom she moved to Washington
where he died in 1909. Her home at present is in Belling-
ham.
As a writer of short stories, novels, travel, and verse,
Mrs. Higginson, according to the verdict of critics, ranks
close to Joaquin Miller. Therefore, since much of her best
literary work was done before her departure from Oregon, a
list of her most popular stories and books follows:
Five Hundred Dollar Prize Stories:
**The Takin* in of Old Mis* Lane'* (McClure*s Maga-
zine), and **The Message of Anne Laura Sweet** (Collier's).
Books of Short Stories:
**The Flower that Grew in the Sand;** **From the Land
of the Snow Pearls;" **A Forest Orchid.*'
Books ot Poems:
**When the Birds go North Again;** **The Voice of
April Land;" "The Vanishing Race."
Novel:
"Mariella of Out-West,"
.« .
t
%.^-;
'■J ' /
URS. ELLA HIOOINBOH
MRS. ELLA HIGGINSON 357
FOUR-LEAF CLOVER
I know a place where the sun is like gold.
And the cherry blooms burst with snow,
And down underneath is the loveliest nook,
Where the four-leaf clovers grow.
One leaf is for hope, and one is for faith,
And one is for love, you know,
And God put another in for luck —
If you search, you will find where they grow.
But you must have hope, and you must have faith,
You must love and be strong — and so —
If you work, if you wait, you will find the place
Where the four-leaf clovers grow.
THE RHODODENDRON BELLS
Across the warm night's subtle dusk,
Where linger yet the purple light
And perfume of the wild, sweet musk —
So softly glowing, softly bright.
Tremble the rhododendron bells.
The rose-pink rhododendron bells.
Tall, slender trees of evergreen
That know the moist winds of the sea,
And narrow leaves of satin's sheen.
And clusters of sweet mystery —
Mysterious rhododendron bells,
Rare crimson rhododendron bells.
O barken — hush! And lean thy ear,
Tuned for an elfin melody.
And tell me now, dost thou not hear
Those voices of pink mystery —
Voices of silver-throated bells,
Of breathing, rhododendron bells?
SUNRISE ON THE WILLAMETTE
The sun sinks downward thro' the silver mist
That looms across the valley, fold on fold,
And sliding thro* the fields that dawn has kissed,
Willamette sweeps, a chain of liquid gold.
II 'J.
358 OREGON LITERATURE
Trails onward ever, curving as it goes,
Past many a hill and many a flowered lea,
Until it pauses where Columbia flows,
Deep-tongued, deep-chested, to the waiting sea.
O lovely vales thro' which Willamette slips!
vine-clad hills that hear its soft voice call!
My heart turns ever to those sweet, cool lips
That, passing, press each rock or grassy wall.
Thro' pasture lands, where mild-eyed cattle feed.
Thro' marshy flats, where velvet tules grow.
Past many a rose tree, many a singing reed,
1 hear those wet lips calling, calling low.
The sun sinks downward thro' the trembling haze»
The mist flings glistening needles higher and higher.
And thro' the clouds — O fair beyond all praise!
Mount Hood leaps, chastened, from a sea of fire.
WHEN THE BIRDS GO NORTH AGAIN
O, every year hath its winter,
And every year hath its rain;
But a day is always coming
When the birds go north again.
When new leaves swell in the forest,
And grass springs green on the plain.
And the alder's veins turn crimson.
And the birds go north again.
Oh, every heart hath its sorrow,
And every heart hath its pain ;
But a day is always coming
When the birds go north again.
*Tis the sweetest thing to remember.
If courage be on the wane,
When the cold, dark days are over —
Why, the birds go north again.
FREDERIC HOMER BALCH
Frederic Homer Balch. author of the "Bridse of the
Goda," was bom at Lebanon, Oregon, December 14, 1661.
In his childhood, stories of vrar fascinated him; and when he
grew older the study of ancient history was his delight
When thirteen years of age he wrote poetry and historical
sketches. Hie early contributions revealed intense love for
his native state, keen interest in the Indians along the Colum-
bia, and the disposition to weave the traditions of a fast-
disappearing race as woof in the warp of civilization which
the earliest colonists brought to Oregon. These things de-
veloped in him an intellectual code which he faithfully fol-
lowed in collecting a vast fund of valuable knowledge re-
garding the Indians, their
habits, religious beliefs, tra-
ditions and mode of living,
all of which ^ere sub-
sequently prepetuated by his
pen.
However, Balch lacked lit-
erary preparation for the
arduous undertaking to
which he aspired. And it
will be difficult for the reader
in an age of splendid schools
to understand the struggles
of a boy to educate himself
under conditions that pre-
vailed in Oregon at that
time. How he later obtained his training is best explained
in his own words: "Much of the education 1 have is due to
the ceaseless reading and re-reading of Macaulay." Of
Milton he wrote: "How 1 thrilled and exulted in the mighty
battle of Satan for the throne of God; in his fierce defiance
emd unbending hate, after the throne was lost; and in the
dusky splendor of the palace, and the pomp with w^ich he
and his followers surrounded themselves in hell."
360 OREGON LITERATURE
At the age of twenty-one years, Frederick H. Balch en-
tered the ministry and organized churches, spending his days
in the saddle and his evenings in the pulpit, laboring in re-
mote settlements where sermons were practically unknovoi.
During interims he studied Indian lore in quest of material
for his book ; and after much research among various tribes,
became thoroughly convinced of the previous existence of
the **Bridge of the Gods** of Indian tradition. No matter,
therefore, what the reader may conclude regarding the ex-
istence of the **Bridge of the Gods;** for of this one thing
he may be assured — Frederic H. Balch, after conscientious
study systematically pursued, wrote with the firm belief
that the Columbia was once spanned by such a bridge.
While pastor of the' Congregational Church of Hood
River, he began writing the **Bridge of the Gods." Upon
completing the book, he pursued a theological course in a
seminary in Oakland, California, and while there his book
was published. A short time before completing his course
in the seminary, Balch was overtaken by illness, and had
not the strength to rally. His death occurred in Portland,
Oregon, June 3, I 89 1 .
Frederic H. Balch outlined several other books among
which were: **Tenasket,** a tale of Oregon in 1818; "Gene-
vieve,** a story of Oregon in 1890; **Crossing the Plains,"
and "Olallie.** But his masterpiece is the * 'Bridge of the
Gods.** Americans agree as to the merits of "The Scar-
let Letter;** yet the "Bridge of the Gods** is in some re-
spects a better story. Unlike "The Scarlet Letter," it pre-
serves the high moral tone of all the leading characters,
thus constantly holding before the mind of the reader that
which is purest and noblest; and it delights the reader with
the triumph of virtue. The beloved minister rises in his
victory over temptation; Wallula, the Indian Princess of
Sauvie*s Island, asserts herself as becomes the daughter of
a great chieftain; and Chief Multnomah stands out to the
end as the exponent of that integrity, courage and honor
characteristic of the better types of the earlier Indian
tribes. Frederic H. Balch is, therefore, entitled to rank
with the leading Oregon autVioia.
EDWIN MARKHAM
When the poem, *The Man With the Hoe," appeared
in 1899, **it received world-wide attention, being hailed
by some as the *battle-cry of the next thousand years'."
Hence it was with satisfaction that the people of Oregon
learned that the poem was written by Edwin Markham,
who was born in Oregon City, April 23, 1852, and -that in
him a great poet had arisen.
When Edwin Markham wrote "The Man With the Hoe,"
he was a resident of California. He had studied MiH^^s
celebrated painting of "The Man With the Hoe," until he
discovered something hitherto unrecognized in the blank
face and bent form of the servile laborer toiling like an ox
at the bidding of another; and the poet made. a picture of
that laborer in these immortal words:
"Bowed by the weight of centuries he leans
Upon his hoe, and gazes on the ground;
The emptiness of ages in his face,
And on his back the burden of the world."
These lines have been the subject of more sermons and
editorials than any other four lines written in the English
language during the last quarter century. It is, therefore,
but fair to the author to concede that if true greatness is
measured by one's ability to stamp his impress upon human-
ity, Edwin Markham would be counted great if he had done
no more than to cause mankind to pause long enough to
consider the oppressed laborer who had never been taught
to think. Largely upon the suggestion of this poem men
have begun to correct that "emptiness of ages" in the
faces of those against whom conditions have cruelly dis-
criminated. The world is now writing a new dispensation
for industry — a new Talmud governing intelligent labor —
and that upon the inspiration of seers such as Edwin Mark-
ham.
BDWni MABBBAM
EDWIN MARKHAM 363
THE MAN WITH THE HOE
►r ..- «
Bowed by the weight'of centuries he leans
Upon his hoe and gazes on the ground.
The emptiness of ages in his face,
And on his back the burden of the world.
Who made him dead to rapture and despair,
A thing that grieves not and that never hopes,
Stolid and stimned, a brother to the ox?
Who loosened and let down his brutal jaw?
Whose was the hand that slanted back this brow?
Whose breath blew out the light within his brain?
Is this the thing the Lord God made and gave
To have dominion over sea and land;
To trace the stars and search the heavens for powers ;
To feel the passion of Eternity?
Is this the Dream He dreamed who shaped the suns
And pillared the blue firmament with light?
Down all the stretch of Hell to its last gulf
There is no shape more terrible than this —
More tongued with censure of the world's blind greed —
More filled with signs and portents for the soul —
More fraught with menace to the universe.
What gulfs between him and the seraphim!
Slave of the wheel of labor, what to him
Are Plato and the swing of Pleiades?
What the long reaches of the peaks of song.
The rift of dawn, the reddening of the rose?
Through this dread shape the suffering ages look :
Time's tragedy is in that aching stoop;
Through this dread shape humanity betrayed.
Plundered, profaned and disinherited,
Cries protest that is also prophecy.
O masters, lords and rulers in all lands,
Is this the handiwork you give to God,
This monstrous thing distorted and soul-quenched?
How will you ever straighten up this shape;
Give back the upward looking and the light;
Rebuild in it the music and the dream;
Touch it again with immortality;
Make right the immemorial infamies,
Perfidious wrongs, immedicable woes?
364 OREGON LITERATURE
O masters, lords and rulers in all lands,
How will the future reckon with this Man?
How answer his brute question in that hour
When whirlwinds of rebellion shake the world?
How will it be with kingdoms and with kings —
With those who shaped him to the thing he is —
When this dumb Terror shall reply to God
After the silence of the centuries?
MRS. EVA EMERY DYE
Many a splendid historic fact has been recorded by
the swift-flowing pen o( Mrs. Eva Emery Dye, of Oregon
City, who has undertaken for Oregon the kind of literary
service that Sir Walter Scott performed for his own loved
Caledonia. She has preserved much of the early folk lore
of the Northwest in her four books — "The Stories of Ore-
gon" published by Whitaker and Ray in 1900 (the plates
of which were destroyed in the
San Francbco earthquake and
fire) :McLoughlin ond Old Ore-
gon," in 1900; "The Conquest,
the Story of Lewis and Clark,"
in 1902; "McDonald of Ore-
gon," in 1906; all of which
were published by A. C. Mc-
Clurg and Company, of Chi-
ago. These books were at
once taken into the great li-
braries of the country where
they drew attention to the
Northwest.
Like Ruth of old. Mrs. Dye
is a busy gleaner, quick to
perceive golden grains in the
great oudying fields of fact and fiction; and her ■
proves that if ever a history of the world could be corr
written, much of it would be the story of what noble
have accomplished.
Not the least of her heroines was Sacajawea, the In-
dian girl guide of Lewis and Clark, whose name, first
popularized in "The Conquest," is now as well known
throughout the Northwest as that of Pocahontas. Statues
have been erected to the memory of the Shoshone maiden,
HSS. EVA EMERY DTE
^ork
=ctly
366 OREGON LITERATURE
and tablets wherever she trod; and no one has risen to
question the story of her exploits.
Mrs. Dye chose to record the things that appertain to the
adventures of the first white people who came to Oregon;
and she has interpreted the romantic life of the whites and
the Indians of those times so picturesquely that her fame
as an author is permanent.
SENATOR EDWIN D. BAKER
Edward Dickinson Baker was bom in London, Eng-
land, February 24, 1811. Five years later bis father's
family located in Philadelphia where Edward was apprentic-
ed at an early age to a weaver. Later young Baker drove a
dray in St. Louis. He was admitted to the bar in Illinois,
obtained a Major's commission in the Black Hawk War,
was commissioned colonel in the Mexican War; became a
member of congress from Illinois in 1849; located in Cali-
fornia; moved to Oregon, and in I860 was elected United
States Senator. His was a dramatic career while in the
senate. Attired in the full
uniform of a colonel, he
appeared before his fellow
fense of the Union, August
Senators in a stirring de-
2, 1 86 1 ; and four days
later was confirmed Briga-
dier General. He fell in
battle at Ball's Bluff, Oc-
tober 21, 1861.
As an orator and poet,
Senator Baker treated
each subject in its appro-
priate individual style. He
was enabled to give a typ-
ical plea in the"Defense of
Cora;" tart repartee in b. d. baker
his "Reply to Benjamin;" the fiery animus of Patrick Henry
in the "Baker Mass-Meeting Address;" human sympathy in
the "Broderick Oration;" ornate style in the "Oration on
the Atlantic Cable;" and poetry and music in the "Ode
to a Wave." On all occasions the flight of the "Old Gray
Eagle" was lofty, attracting the minds of men from sordid
thoughts and groveling themes.
t
368 OREGON LITERATURE -
FREEDOM.
In the presence of God — I say it reverently — freedom
is the rule, and slavery is the exception. It is a marked,
guarded, perfected exception. There it stands I If public
opinion must not touch its dusky cheek too roughly, be it
so; but we will go no further than the terms of the compact.
We are a city set on a hill. Our light cannot be hid. As
for me, I dare not, I will not be false to freedom! Where
in youth my feet were planted, there my manhood and my
age shall march. 1 will walk beneath her banner. I will
glory in her strength. I have seen her, in history, struck
down on a hundred chosen fields of battle. I have seen
her friends fly from her, 1 have seen her foes gather around
her ; 1 have seen them bind her to the stake ; I have seen them
give her ashes to the winds, regathering them that they
might scatter them yet more widely. But when they turned
to exult, I have seen her again meet them face to face, clad
in complete steel, and brandishing in her strong right hand
a flaming sword red with insufferable light- And I take
courage. The Genius of America will al last lead her sons
to freedom.
TO A WAVE
Dost thou seek a star, with thy swelling crest,
Oh! wave that leavest thy mother's breast?
Dost thou leap from the prisoned depths below
In scorn of their calm and constant flow?
Or art thou seeking some distant land,
To die in murmurs upon the strand?
Hast thou tales to tell of the pearl-lit deep,
Where the wave-whelmed mariner rocks in sleep?
Canst thou speak of navies that sunk in pride,
Ere the roll of their thunder in echo died?
What trophies, what banners, are floating free
In the shadowy depths of that silent sea?
SENATOR EDWARD D. BAKER 369
It were vain to ask, as thou rollest afar,
Of banner, or mariner, ship or star;
It were vain to seek in thy stormy face
Some tale of the sorrowful past to trace.
Thou art swelling high, thou art flashing free,
How vain are the questions we ask of thee!
1, too, am a wave on a stormy sea:
1, too, am a wanderer, driven like tl ee;
I, too, am seeking a distant land
To be lost and gone ere I reach the strand.
For the land I seek is a waveless shore.
And they who once reach it shall wander no more.
1
LOUIS ALBERT BANKS
Louis Albert Banks, D. D., has written more books
than any other Oregonian. He was born near Corvallis,
November 12, 1655. Banks pursued a course in liberal
arts at Philomath College; and some years after entering
the ministry he attended Boston University and Mount
Union College. He has been pastor of some of the leading
Methodist Episcopal churches in this country; was prohibi-
tion candidate for governor of Massachusetts in 1893; has
done much effective evangelistic work; and is now (1918)
campaigning for nation-wide prohibition. His sermons
have been read by more people than have the sermons of
any other American clergyman since the death of Talmage.
He is the author of fifty-five books, the most of which were
published by Funk and Wagnalls. They are: —
**Live Boys in Oregon,** "The People's Christ," **The
White Slaves,** **The Revival Quiver," "Anecdotes and
Morals,** "Common Folks* Religion,** "Honeycomb of
Life,** "Heavenly Tradewinds,** "The Christ Dream/*
"Christ and His Friends,** "Paul and His Friends." "The
Saloon Keeper's Ledger,** "The Fisherman and His
Friends,** "Seven Times Around Jericho," "Hero Tales
from Sacred Stories,** "The Christ Brotherhood," "Heroic
Personalities,** "The Unexpected Christ," "Immortal Hymns
and Their Story,** "Sermon Stories for Boys and Girls,"
"The Christian Gentleman,** "John and His Friends," "My
Young Man,** "Immortal Songs of Camp and Field,'* "The
Great Sinners of the Bible,** "A Year's Prayermeeting
Talks,*' "Chats with Young Christians," "A Manly Boy,"
"David and His Friends,** "The Lord's Arrows," "Twenti-
eth Century Knighthood," "Fresh Bait for Fishers of Men,'*
"Poetry and Morals,*' "Hidden Wells of Comfort,** "The
Great Saints of the Bible," "Unused Rainbows," "The
Motherhood of God," "The King's Stewards," "Hall of
Fame,** "Life of T. DeWitt Talmage, D. D.,*' "Youth of
Famous Americans," "Windows for Sermons,** "The Heal-
LOins AIAEKT BAHSB
372 OREGON LITERATURE
ing of Souls,** **The Great Portraits of the Bible,** * "Soul-
Winning Stories," **Thirty-one Revival Sermons,** **The
Religious Life of Famous Americans,** **The Great Promises
of the Bible,** "Capital Stories of Famous Americans,^" "Spur-
geon*s Illustrative Anecdotes,** "Sermons which have Won
Souls,'* "The Problems of Youth,** "The World's Child-
hood,*' "The Great Themes of the Bible,'* "The Sunday
Night Evangel,** A Summer in Peter's Garden."
Doctor Banks' residence is in Brookline, a suburb of
Boston.
HARVEY WHITEFIELD SCOTT
"Harvey Whitefield Scott was one of the greatest
American newspaper editors. He was born in Tazwell
County, Illinois, February 1, 1838. At the age of 14 years
he came with his parents to Yamhill County, Oregon —
traveling across the plains in an ox wagon. At the age of
1 7 he carried a rifle as a private soldier in Colonel Shaw's
militia company in the Indian wars of 1855-1856. When
eighteen years of age he matriculated in Pacific University,
but for want of funds was compelled to withdraw from the
Institution. In 1863, he received the honor of being the
first graduate of Pacific University; and many years later
an official of the school remarked that had Pacific Univer-
sity done nothing more than to educate Harvey W. Scott,
its mission would not have been in vain. While reading law
and acting as librarian of the Portland Library in 1865, Mr.
Scott became editorial writer on the **Oregonian,*' and,
excepting four and a half years, he was continuously its
editor from that date until his death. In 1 9 I 7 two large
volumes of Mr. Scott* s writings, compiled by Leslie M.
Scott, were published under the title, **Religion, Theology
and Morals,** this branch of study having occupied the edi-
tor*s attention more continuously and for a longer time
than any other. These essays, which are wholly Mr. Scott's
in thought, diction, and manual writing, stand out promi-
nently in the journalistic literature of our country as ac-
ceptable counsel from a reverent and tolerant mind con-
cerning the permanent substance of religion.
Among the many other important positions of trust
held by Mr. Scott was that of Collector of Customs for the
District of Oregon for five years, beginning with 1872.
Also he was president of the Lewis and Clark Exposition in
1904, but declined re-election in 1905. He was many
years a director of the Associated Press, the greatest news
gathering organization of America. He died at Baltimore,
Maryland, August 7, 1910; and a week later was borne by
loving hands amid a great concourse of people to his last
1
HARVEY W.
HARVEY WHITEFIELD SCOTT 375
resting place at Portland — Riverview Cemetery." — ^From
Memorial Address by T. L. Elliot, D. D.
**It was given to the generation of Mr. Scott's youth
and to the succeeding generation of his maturer years to
take a wilderness in the rough and mold it through steadily
advancing forms to the uses of modern life. At the begin-
ning of Mr. Scott's career, Oregon was a country whose very
name was best known to the world as a poet's synonym for
solitude and mystery; at the end it was a country which
might challenge the world as an example of the worthiest
things in social development. Thus the background of Mr.
Scott's career was a shifting quantity, presenting each year
— ^almost each month — new conditions and fresh problems,
and calling to the man who for forty-five years was the pre-
eminent leader of its thoughts for new adjustments, often-
times for compromises. If it must be said of Mr. Scott that
the essential values of his character were individual, it still
remains to be said that they were profoundly related to the
conditions and times in which his work was done. The
great figures of any era are those who, sustaining the rela-
tionships of practical understanding and sympathy, are still
in vision and purpose in advance of the popular mind and
of the common activities. So it was with Mr. Scott. There
was never a day of the many years of his long sustained as-
cendsmcy in the life of Oregon in which he did not stand
somewhat apart and somewhat in advance of his immediate
world. In this there was an element of power; but there
was in it, too, an element of pathos. For closely and sympa-
thetically identified as Mr. Scott was at all times with the life
of Oregon he was, nevertheless, one doomed by the ten-
dencies of his character and duties to a life measurably soli-
tary.
**The fewest number of men are pre-eminently success-
ful in more than a single ensemble of conditions. Any radi-
cal change is likely first to disconcert and ultimately de-
stroy adjustments of individual power to working situations.
376 OREGON LITERATURE
The qualities which match one condition are not always or
often adjustable in relation to others. It was an especial
merit of Mr. Scott's genius that it fitted alike into the old
Oregon of small things and into the new Oregon of large
things. Yet there was that in the constitution of Old Ore-
gon which relieved it of the sense of limitation and narrow-
ness, for be it remembered that the old Oregon — the Ore-
gon of Mr. Scott* s earlier years — stretched away to the
British possessions at the north and to the Rocky Moun-
tains at the east. Geographically it was a wide region, and
some sense of the vastness of it and of the responsibilities
connected with its potentialities, early seized upon and pos-
sessed the minds alike of Mr. Scott and of the more thought-
ful among his contemporaries. If we regard this primitive
country with attention only to the numbers of its people, it
appears a small and even an insignificant outpost of the
world ; but if, with a truer sense of values, we study it under
its necessities for social and political organization, there
opens to the mind's eye a field vast, practically, as the
scheme of civilization itself. Thus even in the old Oregon
of small things, the man who sat at the fountain of commu-
nity intelligence lived and worked for larger purposes and
under high aspirations. In a mind of common mold, taking
its tone from the life around about it, there would have de-
veloped a sense of power leading to the exhilarations of an
individual conceit. Upon the mind of Mr. Scott the effect
was far different. In him and upon him there grew a noble
development of moral responsibility. And this he carried
through the vicissitudes of changing times. It was this which
gave to him, firmly rooted as he was, the power which, in
conjunction with his individual gifts sustained him as a con-
tinuing force through all the years of his life.*' — Alfred
Holman in Oregon Historical Quarterly.
**Harvey W. Scott* s mentality placed him in that great
group of journalistic writers from which Greely and Dana
HARVEY WHITEFIELD SCOTT 377
have passed, and of which Pulitzer and Watterson are the
sole survivors. His mind was a huge storehouse in which
knowledge of men, events, literature, philosophy, theology,
ethics and history was piled up and labeled for ready use.
His powers. of expressing thought in written language have
been rarely equaled. To him, words and sentences were
the keen-edged tools with which the expert works and fash-
ions with unerring directness. They were the leaden missiles
with which the skilled rifleman cleaves the target. They
were the thunderbolt or the lightning flash with which elec-
tricity proves its resistless powers. Splendid in their
strength, overwhelming in their incisiveness and captivat-
ing in their grace, his phrasings in conveying the thought
that surged in his dominant mind were the essence and
means that brought him high place in his great profession.**
. — Oregon Journal, August 1910.
HOMER DAVENPORT
The most widely known the world over of the native
sons pf Oregon was Homer Davenport, the famous cartoon'
ist, lecturer, and author. He was bom in the Waldo Hills,
Marion County, on March 8. 1667, living there and in Sit-
verton until reaching his majority. When twenty-five years
of age he had developed no talent for any special bunness
career save a disposition to
draw pictures of birds and
anirnals on fences and other
convenient backgrounds.
In 1892. his father sent him
to San Francisco where he |
secured a position on the
San Francisco "Chronicle."
and later was employed by
William Randolph Hearst
on the "Examiner." Here
Mr. Hearst discovered
young Davenport's talent,
so when Mr. Hearst, in
1895, entered the New
York newspaper field he
took Davenport with him as
a special cartoonist. In the homek davenpokt
following year, during the presidential campaign, the car-
toonist made a reputation for humorous, pungent and ef-
fective representations of different phases of that contest
that won for him a national fame which grew until his death.
May 2, 1912.
Homer Davenport was a born genius, a man of rare im-
agination, a master story-teller, and a man with a heart as
tender as that of a woman. He ^as as democratic in man-
ner as the commonest day laborer, and when in London
calling on William E. Gladstone — finding him in the woods
at Hawarden — told him he ^as "from Silverton, Oregon, a
town that had a brass band and a sawmill." The greatest
HOMER DAVENPORT 3 79
of his cartoons, perhaps, was that representing Admiral
Dewey on his flagship during the battle of Manila, entitled
**Lest We Forget," published when the public was severely
criticising that hero for deeding to his wife a house in Wash-
ington given him by friends. This turned the tide in favor
of the Admiral, who assured a close friend that he was on
the eve of making his permanent home in London, when
Davenport's cartoon awakened the American people to an
appreciation of what Dewey had accomplished at Manila.
Mr. Davenport entered the lecture field in 1901, and
traveled in all parts of the United States, winning success
wherever he went; his **Silverton Stories** amused to the
utmost degree the noted men of the nation as well as the
common people. His book, **The Country Boy,*' which
presented the experiences of himself during his boyhood
days is a wonderful mixture of humor and pathos and won
the faVor of the public at once. He made a visit to the
Arabisui Desert a few years before his death and secured
several of the famous Arabian horses for his stock farm in
East Orange, New Jersey. His book, **My Quest of the
Arab Horse," describes his experiences among the Arabs
and his personal interview with a sheik, is one of intense in-
terest and exceptional value.
380 OREGON LITERATURE
THE STORY OF THE HUTCHINS GOOSE
Although Silverton was situated in a great hunting
country and had lots of good shots, 1 never took much
to hunting, perhaps because I was a poor wing-shot,
and deer were too pretty to kill; but I had heard of
the great flocks of geese and ducks out on the coast of
Nestucca, so I went over to have a great hunt, and the
first day 1 was there 1 actually found a band of geese
big enough so that when I shot into the entire bunch
one on the outskirts fell. When this small goose hit
the sand, he raised to his feet and ran, me after him,
and after quite a run I overtook him and found only
one wing broken. I always had wanted to own live
wild birds and things, so 1 saw my chance. I carried
him to the cabin carefully, and cut up a cigar box lid
into splints and set his wing, and 1 was overjoyed to
see an expression in his cute little black eyesi that he cort o'
knew 1 was trying to cure him instead o* kill him. He
got rapidly better and 1 started for Silverton with him,
and there astonished our family by the kindly way this
Hutchins goose let me doctor his wing. Father helped
me doctor him some, and finally when we took the
splints off his wing his affection showed more than ever,
and to tell the truth, he and 1 grew to be the nearest and
dearest friends possible, not being of the same species.
He used to follow me all over the place, and once when
1 was sitting down by him in the barnyard he brought
me some straws, evidently wanting me to build a nest.
He was a great talker and an alarmist; he would come
to me after I had been away down town and try his
best to tell me what had been going on in the barnyard
while I had been away.
In fact, he was my real chum. When I came into
the barnyard mornings when the frost was on the ground, he
would greet me with all smiles, as much as a goose could
HOMER DAVENPORT
381
smile, then he would step on one of my boots, which was
quite an effort, and held his other foot up in his feathers to
warm it, and if I started to move he would chatter and cackle
that peculiar note of the Hutchins geese, as much as to say,
"Hold on, don't move' I'll tell you another story." Mean-
while he would warm his other foot.
When I went for a walk in the back pasture he would
walk with me at my side, juat as a dog would do. There he
spied a slight knoll and he went and stood on it erect, as
much as to say, "I'll watch out for hunters while you eat grass
in peace and com-
fort.". When I had
finished my pretext at
eating grass 1 v^ent
and stood on the
knoll, and as long as 1
stood there he fed
with perfect confi-
dence that I was
watching out for his
welfare, but when Ii'
walked away he ran
to me chattering some-
thing good naturedly, '~'
perhaps telling me that he had not finished. We really had
great times together, but finally spring was approaching and
I had noticed how he could fly around the barnyard. Father
came to me one day and warned me that if I wanted to keep
that goose I had better clip his wings, but he said, "1 hope
you won't. You say that you love animals; now show it by
letting this goose alone, then when his kind come by in a few
weeks going north for the breeding season, he will join them
and be happier than he is here."
1 replied that "of course an outsider might think he
would leave, but in reality he would not. The goose and 1
;*»
382 OREGON LITERATURE
have talked it over and he don't care for anything better
than I am, so he ain*t goin* away.**
**Well,'* said father, **When 1 see you two together I
think as much, but when you go down town loitering around
with people that aren't half as smart as this goose, it*s then
that he misses you, and it*s on that account that I wish you
would leave his wings the way they are now. But because
after he is gone you will feel bad and mope around for a
few days, I thought I would tell you now that when spring
comes he will leave you, 'notwithstanding the bond of friend*
ship, so if you want him kept here (which I hope you don't)
you had better cut the feathers on one wing."
I didn*t want to mutilate his feathers so I left them on.
A few weeks later coming from one of those important trips
down town, they told me at home that my pet had gone.
I said, **1 guess not.** 1 didn*t want to let on that I was
alarmed, but when they were not looking I made some big
strides for the barnyard, and it was actually as still as death.
1 whistled but no sound, save an echo, came in return.
I noticed the leaves hung silent on our trees, though the
neighbors* trees were in action. 1 went back of the bam and
called, but the call was wasted on a few old hens that **didn t
belong.** 1 tried to ginger up some life into the landscape by
throwing a few old potatoes at things, but the brakes were
set in general on everything and 1 went into the house and
found all the family sitting in front of an empty fireplace with
long faces. No one spoke and the only noise was the clock,
which ticked louder than ever. It was about dark M^ien
father arose and said it was for the best, that **here in Silver-
ton there were no opportunities for him, in fact no pond for
him to swim in even, and when you were away down town,
no one that he apparently loved, and if you will think of it
a moment, it would have been cruel for you, a lover of ani-
mals, to have kept him here all of his life.** But there were
no answers, just long breaths now and then, until it was tiinc
HOMER DAVENPORT
.ndle. Then the
>rld took I
383
L brighter
to light the
aspect
In a few days I recovered with the rest, and the long,
beautiful spring came. No rain to speak of, and it was fine.
1 never saw so many picnics and never went with so many
pretty girls and ball games ran all through the summer, and
the joUiest threshing crews you ever heard of. Fall came,
s hauling wood into the barnyard one day when I
heard wild geese; lota of
them had been passing over
_, ^ P* for a week past, on their way
/p" *WJ,\ ^f south for the winter, but
T^jT't Irl Pr^s^^tly just over the cone
I 'Arr- Ij ' F ^ of the barn came some large
r F ~ i? l""J ' thought at first it was
~' a condor he lit in the barn-
yard and 1 was astonished
that It was a wild goose. Our
rooster hit him, and he rose
and circled and again lit
twenty feet from me. 1
yelled for the neighbors who
kept guns and one of them
ran over resting his gun on
the fence and shot him while 1 held fast to the team. It
was great to think of killing game right in your own
barnyard. 1 ran to pick him up, when father,
who was in the orchard yelled at me not to touch him. 1
said, "We have killed a goose in the barnyard, a wild
goose." "No," said he "Don't handle him; I want to feel of
your head first to see if you have any bump of memory."
Father said, "Do you see that band of geese flying in a circle
next to the hill? You used to tell me you could understand
this little goose's language and could talk some of it. If you
remember any of it now, go out there as near as they will let
384 OREGON LITERATURE
you approach them and tell them they need not wait for their
friend; he is never coming back."
By this time 1 had realized all. I could recognize his
every feature, even to the little black, glossy soft eyes, which
were now half open. Father asked if I saw what had hap-
pened, and said, *T11 tell you, as I believe you are too dumb
to comprehend. Your friend that used to be has brou^t
that band of geese five hundred or a thousand miles out of
their beaten course that he might bring them here where a
lover of birds and things treated him so well. They like^jr
objected, but he persuaded and finally they have obeyed,
and he left them there at a safe distance and came to see you»
and so perhaps renew his love, and there he lies, suid if you
never commit another murder I hope this one will puni^ you
to your grave. Some murders can be explained to the dead
one*s relatives, but you can never explain this one and I
want to show you his right wing.
I didn't want to see his wing, but father was deter-
mined, and as he lifted the feathers at the middle joint, ^we
saw a scar, a knot in the bone where it had healed.
Everybody is a criminal more or less, and some of
the crimes are done by stupid people. Thus I console my-
self in a way over the death of the Hutchins goose, that
perhaps I am a murderer through stupidity and not by pre-
meditation. — **The Country Boy.**
JOAQUIN MILLER
"1 had been writing, oi
trying to write, since a lad.
My two brothers and mj
homei
selves,
teachei
lege,
brothel
; at my side, out
with our parents, anc
'ed entirely to our
We were all schoo
when not in col
In 1861, my eldei
ind I were admitted
to practice law under Geo
H. Williams, afterwards At-
torney General under Presi
dent Grant."
As a lawyer Mr. Mille:
became deeply interested in
Joaquin Murietta, a Mexi-
can brigand for whom
Cincinnatus Hiner Miller
was born in Union County, In-
diana, November 10, 1842.
His parents moved to Missouri
in 1846, and to Oregon in
1852. The Poet tells the
story:
"The first thing of mine in
print was the valedictory class
poem, at Columbia College,
Eugene, Oregon, 1859. At
this date Colnmbia College,
the germ of the University of
Oregon, had many students
from Oregon and California,
and was famous as an educa-
tional center.
HnnilB HTKTLE HILLEB
he made a legal defense.
386
OREGON LITERATURE
Later he poerized his client, taking his name. The
nom-de-plume became popular; and at the present time the
Poet is best known to literature under the name of Joaquin
Miller. In 1863, he edited the "Democratic Register." in Eu-
gene, Oregon, which was suppressed for disloyalty. While
editor, he was married to Miss Minnie Dyer, of Gold Beach,
who became famous in Oregon literary circles as Minnie
Myrtle Miller. She produced a marked change in the char-
acter and writings of her husband. That delicate and re-
fined love for the beautiful and that sympathy for the err-
ing and unfortunate which characterize his writings must be
admitted to date from his marriage. The Poet said: "TTiat
which is best in my works was inspired by her."
Miller moved to Canyon City, in Eastern Oregon,
where he wrote poetry, served as County Judge and prac-
ticed law. In 1 868 he published "Specimens;" and in 1869,
"Joaquin, Et Al." Believing that he could find a better
market for his publications in Europe than in America, he
went to London in 1870. Then the "Songs of the Sierras"
which were written before he left Oregon, appeared in Eng-
_ land and in Boston simul-
taneously. "His original-
ity, freshness of style,
vigor of thought and ex-
pression were greeted with
applause; and Englishmen
hailed him as the "Ameri-
can Byron," Upon relum-
ing to America he did
journalistic work in Wash-
ington, D. C, until the
autumn of 1887, v^en he
removed to Oakland. Cali-
fornia, and remained un-
til his death which took
place February 17, 1913.
JOAQUm UIIXEB'S FYBE
JOAQUIN MILLER 387
In addition to the books mentioned, Joaquin Miller
wrote, **Song8 of the Sunland,** **Song8 of the Desert,**
**Song8 of Italy,** * 'Collected Poems,** **Songs of Mexican
Seas,** **The Baroness of New York,*' **The Danites in the
Sierras,*** 'Shadows of Shasta,** **Memorie and Rime,** **Gold
Seekers of the Sierras,** and **Songs of the Soul;** and un-
like many authors, he acquired a fortune from his pen.
In a tribute to this adopted son of Oregon, upon his
death the "Oregon Journal** editorially said: **His 'Mothers
of Men* and his 'Columbus* are two of the most beautiful
creations of the English language.**
THE MOTHERS OF MEN
The bravest battle that ever was fought ;
Shall I tell you where and when?
On the maps of the world you will find it not;
It was fought by the mothers of men.
Nay, not with cannon or battle shot,
With sword or nobler pen;
Nay not with eloquent word or thought.
From mouths of wonderful men,
But deep in a walled-up woman's heart —
Of woman that would not yield.
But patiently, silently bore her part —
Lo! there is that battlefield.
No marshaling troops, no bivouac song;
No banner to gleam and wave;
And oh! these battles they last so long —
From babyhood to the gravel
Yet, faithful still as a bridge of stars,
She fights in her walled-up town —
Fights on and on in the endless wars.
Then silent, unseen — goes down.
388 OREGON LITERATURE
Oh, spotless woman in a world of shame;
With splendid and silent scorn,
Go back to God as white as you came —
The kingliest warrior bom.
TO JUANITA
Come, listen O love to the voice of the dove.
Come, harken and hear him say
There are many tomorrows, my love, my love.
But only one today.
And all day long you can hear him say
This day in purple is rolled.
And the baby stars of the Milky Way
They are cradled in cradles of gold.
Now what is the secret, serene gray dove,
Of singing so sweetly alway?
There are many tomorrows, my love, my love.
But only one today.
LINES ON BYRON
In men whom men condemn as ill
I find so much of goodness still.
In men whom men pronounce divine
I find so much of sin and blot,
I do not dare to draw a line
Between the two, where God has not.
IS IT WORTH WHILE?
Is it worth while that we jostle a brother
Bearing his load on the rough road of life?
Is it worth while that we jeer at each other
In blackness of heart? — that we war to the knife?
God pity us all in our pitiful strife.
God pity us all as we jostle each other;
God pardon us all for the triumphs we feel
When a fellow goes down ; poor heart broken brother.
Pierced to the heart; words are keener than steel.
And mightier far for woe or for weal.
Were it not well in this brief little journey
On over the isthmus down to the tide.
JOAQUIN MILLER 389
We give him a fish instead of a serpent,
Ere folding the hands to be and abide
Forever and aye in dust at his side?
Look at the roses saluting each other;
Look at the herds all at peace on the plain-
Man, and man only makes war on his brother,
And dotes in his heart on his peril and pain —
Shamed by the brutes that go down on the plain.
Why should you envy a moment of pleasure
Some poor fellow mortal has wrung from it all?
Oh! could you look into his life's broken measure —
Look at the dregs — at the wormwood and gall —
Look at his heart hung with crepe like a pall —
Look at the skeletons down by his hearthstone —
Look at his cares in their merciless sway,
I know you would go and say tenderly, lowly,
Brother, my brother, for aye and a day,
Lo! Lethe is washing the blackness away.
IN THE GREAT EMERALD LAND
A morn in Oregon ! The kindled camp
Upon the mountain brow that broke below
In steep and grassy stairway to the damp
And dewy valley, snapp'd and flamed aglow
With knots of pine. Above the peaks of snow.
With under-belts of sable forests, rose
And flashed in sudden sunlight. To and fro
And far below, in lines and winding rows,
The herders drove their bands, and broke the deep repose.
I heard their shouts like sounding hunter's horn.
The lowing herds made echoes far away;
When lo! the clouds came driving in with morn
Toward the sea, as fleeing from the day.
The valleys fiird with curly clouds. They lay
Below, a level'd sea that reach'd and roird
And broke like breakers of a stormy bay
Against the grassy shingle fold on fold.
So like a splendid ocean, snowy white and cold.
390 OREGON LITERATURE
The peopled valley lay a hidden world,
The shouts were shouts of drowning men that died.
The broken clouds along the border curl'd,
And bent the grass with weighty freight of tide.
A savage stood in silence at my side.
Then sudden threw aback his beaded strouds
And stretch'd his hand above the scene, and cried.
As all the land lay dead in snowy shrouds;
"Behold! the sun bathes in a silver sea of clouds."
Here lifts the land of clouds! Fierce mountain forms.
Made white with everlasting snows, look down
Through mists of many canons, mighty storms
That stretch from Autumn's purple, drench and drown
The yellow hem of Spring. Tall cedars frown
Dark-brow*d through banner'd clouds that stretch and stream
Above the sea from snowy mountain crown.
The heavens roll, and all things drift or seem
To drift about and drive like some majestic dream.
In waning Autumn time, when purpled skies
Begin to haze in indolence below
The snowy peaks, you see black forms arise.
In rolling thunder banks above, and throw
Quick barricades about the gleaming snow.
The strife begins! The battling seasons stand
Broad breast to breast. A flash! Contentions grow
Terrific, Thunders crash, and lightnings brand
The battlements. The clouds possess the conquered land.
The clouds blow by, the swans take loftier flight.
The yellow blooms burst out upon the hill.
The purple camas comes as in a night,
Tall spiked and dripping of the dews that fill
The misty valley. Sunbeams break and spill
Their glory till the vale is full of noon.
The roses belt the streams, no bird is still.
The stars, as large as lilies, meet the moon
And sing of s immer, born thus sudden full and soon.
WILLIAM BROWN OF OREGON
They called him Bill, the hired man,
But she, her name was Mary Jane,
The squire's daughter; and to reign
The )t)elle from Ber-sh^.-be to Dan
JOAQUIN MILLER 391
Her little game. How lovers rash
Got mittens at the spelling school!
How many a mute, inglorious fool
Wrote rhymes and sighed and dyed — mustache!
This hired man had loved her long,
Had loved her best and first and last,
Her very garments as she passed
For him had symphony and song.
So when one day with flirt and frown
She called him "Bill," he raised his head,
He caught her eye and faltering said,
"I love you; and my name is Brown,'*
She fairly waltzed with rage; she wept;
You would have thought the house on fire.
She told her sire, the portly squire.
Then smelt her smelling-salts and slept.
Poor William did what could be done;
He swung a pistol on each hip,
He gathered up a great ox-whip
And drove right for the setting sun.
He crossed the big backbone of earth,
He saw the snowy mountains rolled
Like nasty billows; saw the gold
Of great big sunsets; felt the birth
Of sudden dawn upon the plain;
And every night did William Brown
Eat pork and beans and then lie down
And dream sweet dreams of Mary Jane.
Her lovers passed. Wolves hunt in packs.
They sought for bigger game; somehow
They seemed to see about her brow
The forky sign of turkey tracks.
The teeter-board of life goes up,
The teeter-board of life goes down.
The sweetest face must learn to frown ;
The biggest dog has been a pup.
O maidens! pluck not at the air;
The sweetest flowers I have found
Grow rather close unto the ground
And highest places are most bare.
392 OREGON LITERATURE
Why, you had better win the grace
Of one poor humble Af-ri-can
Than win the eyes of every man
In love alone with his own face.
At last she nursed her true desire.
She sighed, she wept for William Brown.
She watched the splendid sun go down
Like some great sailing ship on fire.
Then rose and checked her trunks right on;
And in the cars she lunched and lunched.
And had her ticket punched and punched.
Until she came to Oregon.
She reached the limit of the lines,
She wore blue specs upon her nose.
Wore rather short and manly clothes,
And so set out to reach the mines.
Her right hand held a Testament,
Her pocket held a parasol,
And thus equipped right on she went,
Went water-proof and water-fall.
She saw a miner gazing down,
Slow stirring something with a spoon;
"O, tell me true and tell me soon,
What has become of William Brown?**
He looked askance beneath her specs,
Then stirred his cocktail round and round,
Then raised his head and sighed profound.
And said, "He's handed in his checks.**
Then care fed on her damaged cheek.
And she grew faint, did Mary Jane,
And smelt her smelling-salts in vain,
Yet wandered on, way worn and weak.
At last upon a hill alone;
She came, and there she sat her down;
For on that hill there stood a stone.
And lo! that stone read "William Brown.'*
"() William Brown! O William Brown!
And here you rest at last," she said,
"With this lone stone above your head,
And forty miles from any town!
JOAQUIN MILLER 393
I will plant cypress trees, I will,
And I will build a fence around.
And I will fertilize the ground
With tears enough to turn a mill."
She went and got a hired man,
She brought him forty miles from town,
And in the tall grass knelt down
And bade him build as she should plan.
But cruel cowboys with their bands
They saw and hurriedly they ran
And told a bearded cattle man
Somebody builded on his lands.
He took his rifle from the rack,
He girt himself in battle pelt,
He stuck two pistols in his belt.
And mounting on his horse's back,
He plunged ahead. But when they shewed
A woman fair, about his eyes
He pulled his hat, and he likewise
Pulled at his beard, and chewed and chewed.
At last he gat him down and spake:
*'0 lady, dear, what do you here?"
"I build a tomb unto my dear,
I plant sweet flowers for his sake."
The bearded man threw his two hands
Above his head, then brought them down
And cried, **0, I am William Brown,
And this the corner of my lands."
The preacher rode a spotted mare.
He galloped forty miles or more;
He said he never had before
Seen bride and bridegroom half so fair.
And all the Injuns they came down
And feasted as the night advanced.
And all the cowboys drank and danced.
And cried: "Big Injun! William Brown."
394 OREGON LITERATURE
THE DAYS OF '49
We have worked our claims.
We have spent our gold,
Our barks are astrand on the bars;
We are battered and old,
Yet at night we behold,
Outcrcppings of gold in the stars.
Chorus — Tho' battered and old,
Our hearts are bold,
Yet oft do we repine;
For the days of old.
For the days of gold.
For the days of forty-nine.
Where the rabbits play.
Where the quail all day
Pipe on the chaparral hill;
A few more days.
And the last of us lays
His pick aside and all is still.
Chorus —
We are wreck and stray.
We are cast away.
Poor battered old hulks and spars;
But we hope and pray.
On the judgment day,
We shall strike it up in the stars.
Chorus —
JOAQUIN MILLER 395
COLUMBUS
Behind him lay the gray Azores,
Behind the gates of Hercules ;
Before him not the ghost of shores;
Before him only shoreless seas.
The good mate said: "Now must we pray,
For lo! the very stars are gone.
Brave Adm'r '1, speak; what shall I say?"
"Why, say: 'Sail on! sail on! and on!"
"My men grow mutinous day by day;
My men grow ghastly wan and weak."
The stout mate thought of home; a spray
Of salt wave washed his swarthy cheek.
"What shall I say, brave Adm'r'l, say.
If we sight naught but seas at dawn?"
"Why you shall say at break of day:
*Sail on! Sail on! Sail on! and on!'"
They sailed and sailed, as winds might blow,
Until at last the blanched mate said:
"Why, now not even God would know
Should I and all my men fall dead.
These very winds forget their way.
For God from these dread seas is gone.
Now speak, brave Adm'r'l; speak and say — "
He said: "Sail on! Sail on! and on!"
They sailed. They sailed. Then spake the mate:
"This mad sea shows his teeth to-night.
He curls his lip, he lies in wait.
With lifted teeth as if to bite!
Brave Adm'r'l, say but one good word:
What shall we do when hope is gone?"
The words leapt like a leaping sword:
"Sail on! Sail on! Sail on! and on!"
Then, pale and worn, he kept his deck.
And peered through darkness. Ah, that night
Of all dark nights! and then a speck —
A light! A light! A light! A light
It grew, a starlit flag unfurled!
It grew to be Time's burst of dawn.
He gained a world; he gave the world
Its grandest lesson? "On! sail on!"
396 HISTORY OF OREGON
WAR EDITION OF "OREGON"
This Edition of **Oregon" was published under war
conditions, when many Oregon printers, with other patriots,
were attending to the Nation's business in Europe. Hence
this volume, which was to have appeared in 1918, was de-
layed until 1919. Much of the work was performed under
difficulties. Oregon was so gloriously represented abroad
during the terrific struggle for democracy that the peaceful
pursuit of printing books became temporarily of secondary
importance. Consequently, the generous indulgence of the
patriotic reader is invoked in the perusal of this War Edition.
However, encouragement already received, has led the
author to undertake the preparation of a second edition. To
this end he will be grateful for helpful suggestions, and
will cheerfully consider any additional material that will
tend to acquaint the public with Oregon and to exalt the
study of her history, her great men, her literature, and her
natural resources.
APPENDIX 397
Authorities Consulted. Among the publications con-
sulted in the preparation of the present volume are the fol-
lowing, the most of which are for sale by the J. K. Gill Co.
and the Hyland Book Store in Portland:
Bancroft, H. H.— "Historical Works";
Chapman, C. H. — "The Story of Oregon";
Clarke, S. A. — "Pioneer Days of Oregon History";
Dye, Eva Emery — "McLoughlin and Old Oregon";
Franchere, Gabriel — "Narrative" ;
Gaston, Joseph — "The Centennial History of Oregon";
Gill, John — "Dictionary of the Chinook Jargon";
Harper's "Encyclopedia of U. S. History";
Himes and Lang — "History of the Willamette Valley";
Irving, Washington — "Astoria" ;
Johnson and Winter— "Description of Oregon and California";
Lewis, Meriwether — "History of the Expedition of Capt. Lewis
and Clark";
Lyman, Horace Sumner — "History of Oregon";
North Pacific History Co.— "History of the Pacific Northwest";
Olcott, Ben W.— "Oregon Blue Book";
"Oregon Historical Society Quarterly";
Parkman, Francis — "The Oregon Trail";
Saylor, Fred H. — "Oregon Native Son";
Schafer, Joseph — "History of the Pacific Northwest";
Steel, William G.— "Oregon Place Names";
Walker, W. S.— "The Schools of Oregon";
Woodward, W. C— "Political History of Oregon."
"Fifty Years in Oregon," written and published by ex-Gov-
ernor T. T. Geer, Portland, Oregon. "It is a mine of good stories."
— Knoxville (Tenn.) Sentinel. It contains 536 pages. Orders re-
ceived and filled by Mr. Geer.
398
HISTORY OF OREGON
PRONOUNCING INDEX
(Consensus of opinion rendered by members of the Oregon Greo-
graphic Board.)
A Ian' son
A lar' con or al lar' kon
Allegheny, al le gay ny
Al se' a or al se'
An' chi yoke
A ni an' or & nl an
Ar' a gon or a ra gon'
B
Blan' chetor blong shay'
Boi' se
Bonneville, bon' vil
Broughton, br6' tun
Buena Vista, bway na vis ta
C
Cabrillo, Ca breel' yo
Cal a poo' ia.
Cas cades'
Cayuse, ki use'
Celilo, se-li' lo
Champoeg, sham poo' eg
Champooic, sham poo' ick
Chaboneau, shah bon o'
Che h4 lem
Che ma' wa
Che mek' e ta
Clatskanie, klats' ka ni
Ciat s6p
Coose, koose
Coquelle, ko kwell'
Coquille, ko keel'
Coronado, ko ro na' tho
Coyote, ki o te
Cuadra, kwa' dra
Farnham, fam' am
G
Gervais, jer' vis
Gil' li am
Grand Ronde, grand rond
H
Heceta, hek' e ta, heth' a ta,
he se' ta
I
I' da ho
J
Joaquin, wah' keen
or hoo aw keen'
Juan de Fuca, hwan de foo'
kah
K
Klickitat, klick' e tat
Kwanchai, kwon chi
L
La Charette, la shar ette'
La Creole, la ere' ole
or lack re' 61
Lapwai, lap' way
Lausanne, law z&n'
Le Breton, leh bray' ton.
Led yard
Luckiamute, luck' i mute
M
Man' dan
Matthieu, mat' thu
McLoughlin, mack lock' lin
or mack loff lin
Mem' a loose
PRONOUNCING INDEX
399
Mo' lal la
Mai do n&' do
Mult no mah
N
Ne cin i cum
Nesmith, nez' mlth
Nez Perces, neh p6r seh
O
Okanagan, o kan a' gan
Okanogan o kan d' gan
Or' e gon
O rig' a num
Orejon, 6 ray hon'
O yer un' gon
P
Pend d'Oreille, pond do rdy
Phir o math
Pritch' ett
Q
Quadra, kwa' dra
R
Rick' re all
S
Sacajawea, sak a j& we' ah
Sacagawea, sah ka gow' ah
San Miguel, san me' gel
San ti &m
Sauvie, so' ve
Scio, si' 6
Sierra Nevada,
si er a ne v&' da
Shoshone, sho sho' ne
Siuslaw, si use' law
Spokane, spo kan'
T
Tir la mook
Tonquin, ton' kin
Touchet, too' sheh
Tualatin, twal' a tin
Tum' a 16
T'Vault, te' vault
U
UUoa, ool 15' ah
Umpqua, ump' kwa
W
Waiilatpu, wi e lat pu or
wi al at pu
Wallowa, wal low' a (ow as
in cow)
Wau' na
Wau' re gan
Whiteaker, whit' a ker
Winema, win' e mah or
wi ne' mah
Willamette, wil lam' et, or
wil lah' met
Y
Yachaats, yah h&tz
Yai' nax
Yak' i ma
Yoncalla, y6n c&l' &
Yaquina, yah kwl' na
INDEX
Abemethy, Gov. George, 105;
calls for volunteers, 116.
"A Bird in the Hand," 305.
"Ad Willametam," 344.
American Board Missions inter-
ested in Oregon Country, 74.
Anian Strait, importance of, 22;
map of, 21; story of, 21.
Ainsworth, Capt. J. C, 133.
Alarcon approaches "Upper Cali-
fornia," 25.
Albany College, 188.
"Albatross," 54.
Americans seek possession of
Oregon, 57; American claims
to Oregon, 58; title acknowl-
edged, 58.
Ames, Bishop E. R., 86.
Arnold, Pres. B. L., 164.
Ashley, Gen. William H., 60.
Astor organizes Pacific Fur Com-
pany, 54.
Astoria in 1911, 55 ; christened as
"Fort George," 57; "Astoria,"
Irving's, 57.
Asylum moved from Portland,
226.
Atkinson, Rev. G. H., 159.
Attorney General, office of es-
tablished, 254.
Australian ballot adopted, 254.
Authorities consulted, 377.
Baker, E. D., chosen U. S. Sena-
tor, 175; killed at Ball's Bluff,
176; orator and author, 367.
Balboa discovers Pacific Ocean,
23.
Balch, Frederic Homer, 359.
Ball, John, first N. W. teacher,
Banks, Dr. L. A., 370.
Baptist Church, 148.
Battle of Grave Creek, 142; of
Table Rock, 139; of Willow
Creek, 222.
Battle Rock, 137.
Battleship "Oregon," 263.
Beach Mining, 152.
"Beautiful Willamette," 345.
"Beaver" arrives at Astoria, 57;
S. S. "Beaver," 176.
Beaver coins, 127.
Beers, Alanson, 71; member Ex-
ecutive Committee, 95.
"Beeswax Ship," wreck of, 316.
Bennett, Charles, 121.
Benson, Gov. F. W., 297.
Bethel College, 167.
Biddle, Captain, 58.
Bitterness of war feeling, 183.
Blain, Rev. Wilson, 157.
Blanchet, Bishop, 16, 80.
Blue Bucket Mine, legend of and
search for, 177.
Blue Mountain University, 210.
Boise, R. P., 165.
Bone Dry Laws of Oregon, 321.
Border lawlessness, 179.
Bowerman, Gov. Jay, 298.
Bridge of the Gods, 336.
British Fur Companies united, 61.
Broughton explores the Colum-
bia, 33.
Brown, Mrs. Tabitha, 159.
Bryant, W. C. 19.
Buchanan, Col., 144.
Buena Vista pottery, 188.
Buford, Maj. T. J., 111.
Burnett, Peter H., 87.
Cabrillo discovers San Diego and
Monterey, 25.
California named New Albion by
Drake, 27.
Campbell, T. F., 161.
Canby. Gen., 200.
Candle from the "Beeswax Ship,"
316.
Cape Foulweather named by
Cook, 28.
Cape Gregory named by Cook, 28.
Cape Perpetua named by Cook,
28.
Cape Prince of Wales named by
Cook, 28.
Capital punishment abolished,
City to Salem, 132; at Cor-
vallis, 161; removed to Salem,
Capital Punishment Abolished,
313.
402
HISTORY OF OREGON
Captain Jack, 200.
Carey Irrigation Act, 273.
"Carrie Ladd," 134.
Carver, Jonathan, 16.
Cascades, legend of, 48; emerg-
ing from the Ocean, 14.
Cascade Locks, 312.
Cattle and horses brought to
Oregon, 77.
Caves, part of National reserve,
209.
Cayuse Chiefs profess wizard
powers, 118.
Cayuse War, 116, 119.
Celilo Falls, 318; Locks and Ca-
nal, 317.
Cemetery in stone, 215.
Chadwick, Gov S.. F., 217.
Chair of Agriculture established,
203.
Chamberlain, Gov. George E.,281.
Champoeg Meeting, importance
of, 98; site of located, 270;
monument, 271; Pioneer Me-
morial Building, 272.
Champooick District, 97.
Chautauqua, 257.
Chemawa, 241.
Chenoweth, F. A., 193.
Chief Cutlip, 111.
Chief John, 144.
Chief Quatley, 136.
Chinook Jargon, 80.
Chinook Salmon, habits of, 185,
187.
Christian College, 160.
Cleveland, President, 245.
Clackamas District, 98.
Clear Lake, 277, 279.
Climates of Oregon, 224.
Colonization of Oregon, neces-
sity for, 82.
"Columbia," a historic ship, 30;
equipped, 29; circumnavigates
the globe, 31.
Columbia Highway, 332.
Columbia, River, mouth of espied
by HecetsL, 26; entered by Cap-
tain Gray, 32; Columbia River
explored by British, 33; names
of, 35.
Columbia River natural bridge,
336.
Columbia University, 273.
Columbus, 395.
Compromise on U. S. Senator,
175.
Condon, Dr. Thomas, 15.
Congressmen from Oregon, 339.
Connor, Rev. T. J., 152.
"Constitution," Battleship, 55.
Cook discovers Sandwich Islands,
28 ; sails through Bering Strait,
28; names Cape Gregory, 28;
names Cape Foulweather, 28;
names Cape Perpetua, 28;
names East Cape and Cape
Prince of Wales, 28 ; fur trade,
29.
Copperfield placed under martial
law, 309.
Corbett, H. W., 263. 285.
Coronado marches to Kansas, 24.
Cortereal, Gaspard, 21.
Cortez conducts explorations, 23.
Corvallis College, 163, 164.
Corvallis College founded, 164.
Courts, Territorial, 110.
Covell, Grant A., 252.
Coyote and Three Witches, leg-
end of, 50.
Crater Lake, 274; described by
Joaquin Miller, 276.
Crater Lake National Park, 274.
Crime stronger than arm of law,
179.
Crossing the plains, 88.
Cuadra explores coast to Rus-
sian Territory, 26.
Curry, Governor, 155, 156.
Dallas College, 272.
Davenport, Homer, 378.
Davis, Governor, 155.
Deady, Matthew P., 166.
Deady Hall, 213.
Beei&esl canyon in world, 326.
INDEX
403
Denny pheasant, 232.
Demers, Vicar-General, 79.
Downing, Miss Susie, 71.
Drake names California New Al-
bion, 27; plunders Spanish
ships, 27; circumnavigates the
globe, 28.
Driving last spike at Huntington,
231.
Duniway, Mrs. Abigail Scott, 30^,
308.
Dye, Mrs. E. E.. 42, 365.
East Cape named by Cook, 28.
Eastern Oregon State Hospital,
310.
Edwards, P. L., 69.
Eells, Rev. C, 75.
Election of U. S. Senator, ob-
structions offered to, 263.
Electric power and water sup-
ply. 266.
Elliot, T. L., 375.
Emigration of 1839, 82; of 1843,
"Empress of China," 31.
Epoch I, 19; II, 53; III, 91;
IV, 125; V, 171.
Equal Suffrage, initiative move-
ment, 307; a law, 309.
Eugene Bible University, 262.
Explorations by Columbus and
Balboa, 21.
Executive Committee, 95, 100.
Faith, Hope, and Charity, 250.
Famham, Thomas J., 78.
Federal Court established, 168.
"Feast of Apple Bloom," 349.
Feeble-Minded, State Institution
of, 288.
Ferelo sails near Oregon, 25.
Finley, Pres. William, 164.
Finley, William L., 304.
First College cadets, 163.
First Mining Code, 151.
First mission school, 70.
First Oregon-built revenue cut-
ter, 210.
First high school, 240.
First postoffice, 147,
First protestant church on Pa-
cific Coast, 83.
First psalm-singing congregation,
158.
First school teacher, 71.
First state school Supt., 205.
First steamboats built in Wil-
lamette Valley, 133.
First trading post on Lewis Riv-
er, 53
First trading ship in Coos Bay,
111.
First Woolen Mill west of Rocky
Mountains, 167.
Fish and Game Commission, 304.
Forest Fire of 1867, 113.
Fort Clatsop, winter at, 44.
Fort Dalles, 129.
Four capitals of Oregon, 161.
"Four-leaf Clover," 255.
Franchere, Gabriel, 55.
"Freedom," 368.
Gaines, Gov., 131.
Gale, Joseph, 95.
Gatch, Dr. Thomas M., 86.
Gauging Oregon stream for irri-
gation, 274.
Geer, Gov. T. T., 265 ; marks site
of Champoeg, 270.
Geological disclosures, 213, 215.
Ghost room, 209.
Gibbs, Gov., raises a regiment.
184; dies in London, 189.
Gilliam, Col. Cornelius, 118.
Gold discovered in Southern Ore-
gon, 146; scarcity of, 122; dis-
covered in Eastern Oregon, 177.
Governor accompanies 2nd Ore-
gon Regiment home, 270.
Gi-and Ronde flood, 182.
Grave Creek, Battle of, 142.
Gray, Capt. W. H., 75; fur trad-
er, 29; sails for China, 30; bill
of lading, 30; enters the Co-
lumbia River, 32.
Griffin, Rev. J. S., 75.
Griffin Gulch, 178.
Grover, Gov., 198; designed state
seal, 174,
404
HIS! ORY OF OREGON
Hangman's tree, 179.
Hawthorne, B. J., 164, 204.
Hayes, Pres., visits Oregon, 227.
Hayes-Tilden Contest, 211.
Heceta Head, 26.
Hen C521, 319.
Hermann, Binger, 1315.
Hieroglyphics near Arlington,
234; in Cascadia Cave, 238.
Higginson, Mrs. Ella, 355. 256.
Hill, David, 95.
Hill, James J., 296.
Hillman, John W., discovers Cra-
ter Lake, 276.
Hillocks of snakes, 194.
Hogg, T. Egenton, 244.
Holladay, Ben., 193.
Holman, Alfred, 376.
Honor system for convicts, 303.
Hoover, Herbert, 325.
Hostility to negroes, 190.
Household Economy, chair of,
established, 251.
Howard, Gen. O. O., 219.
Hoyt, Dr. Francis S., 86.
Hudson's Bay Company, 61;
chief interest in Oregon, 62;
convey Rev. Blanchet and Rev.
Demers to Oregon Country, 79.
"Hutchins Goose," 380.
Idaho Territory organized, 153.
Improved Poultry Industry, 319.
Initiative and Referendum, 270.
Indians, their struggle for exist-
ence, 43; their folk-lore, 48;
their Book of Genesis, 48;
fairs, 65; wars, causes of, 116,
135; War Veterans, 281; skele-
tons and relics, 237.
"In the Emerald Land," 389.
Interstate Wagon Bridge, 334.
Irvine, Rev. Samuel G., 157.
Irrigation law passed, 255 ; activ-
ities in Oregon, 311.
"Is it Worth While?" 388.
Jackson, President, sends com-
missioners to Oregon, 147.
Jacksonville, 147.
Jefferson's estimate of Lewis
and Clark Expedition, 46.
"Jennie Clark," 134.
Joaquin Miller, 17, 385.
Joaquin Miller's Chapel, 209.
Johnson, John W., 240.
Juan Perez sails to San Mar-
garita, 26.
Kam, Jacob, 133.
Kelley, Hall J., 16; advocates
occupation of Oregon, 59; ar-
rives in Oregon, 60; returns to
Massachusetts, 60.
Kendall, Thomas S., D.D., 157.
"Kwanchai," 269.
Labor laws governing minors,
LaCreole Academic Institute,
165, 272.
Lack of postal facilities in early-
times, 196.
Lady McDuff, 319.
Lafayette Seminary, 250.
Lake Ewauna, 195.
Lake once a mountain, 274.
"Land of the Big Red Apples,"
110.
Lane, Gov., 123, 126.
"Lausanne," 71.
Law and order league, 179.
Ledyard publishes first account
of Cook's voyage, 29.
Lee, Rev. Daniel, 69.
Lee, Rev. Jason, 69, 78.
Legends: Birds and their
Bright Colors, 52; Cascades,
48; Coyote on the Klamath,
50 ; Coyote and Three Witches,
50; Skookums, 50; Tallapus
and the Cedar Tree, 51; Five
Thunders, 51.
Legislative Assembly at Falls, 94.
Legislature, date for convening
changed, 228.
Lewis and Clark Centennial Ex-
position, 285.
Lewis and Clark Expedition, 38;
at Council Bluffs, 40; winter
at Mandan, 40; suffering, 48;
Fort CUtsop, 44; salt cairn,
45; return, 46.
INDEX
405
Lewis discovers Lewis River, 42.
Lincoln, Abraham, appointed
governor of Oregon, 132.
Lines on Byron, 388.
Link River, 194.
Linn, Lee, and Famham, 78.
Longest wooden draw, 244.
Louisiana Purchased, 37.
Lord, Gov. W. P., 262.
Lord's Prayer in Chinook Jar-
gon, 81.
"Lot Whitcomb," 133.
Luelling, Henderson, 109.
Luxillo, Rev. Joseph, 73.
Lyman, Horace, 165.
Magruder, murder of, 180.
Mandan Tribe, destruction of, 40.
"Man with Hoe," 363.
Markham, Edwin, 361.
Marriage rite first observed in
Willamette Valley, 73.
Marsh, President S. H., 159.
Marsh Hall, Pacific University,
160.
Marshall, Jas. W., 121.
Massacre of U. S. Commission,
Modoc War, 200; Cayuse Sta-
tion, 223.
Matthieu, F. X., 270, 271.
May Dacre, 65.
May's Senatorial Law, 272.
Mazamas, Oregon, 258.
McKay, Dr. W. C, 260
McLoughlin sent to Oregon, 61;
establishes trading fort at Van-
couver, 62; character sketch
by Chapman, 62
McMinnville College, 168.
Mechanic Arts School, establish-
ed, 252.
Meek, Joseph, 94, 123.
Meeker marks Oregon Trail, 291.
Meeting of Sacajawea and her
brother, 42.
Memaloose Island, 201.
M. E. Church South, 164.
Millar, Rev. James P., 156.
Miller, Minnie Myrtle, 385.
Miles, General, 220.
Miners at Auburn administer
law, 179.
Minors, labor laws, 315.
Minto, John, 82.
"Miracle Boulevard," 276.
Mission, The Dalles, 72.
Missionaries to Oregon, Metho-
dists, 69, 71; conference, 86.
Missouri Fur Company, 60.
Modoc War, 199, 201.
Monacht Ap6, 26.
Monmouth University, 160.
Montana Territory organized, 154
Moody, Gov. Z. F., 229.
Moorhouse, Major Lee, 218.
Morris, Bishop B. W., 146.
"Mothers of Men," 387.
Mt. Adams, 49.
Mt. Edgecombe, 26.
Mt. St. Helens, 49.
Mt. Hood named and explored,
34, 35; Legend of, 49.
Mt. Jefferson, 247; in the Ice
Age, 248.
Mt. St. Jacinto, 26.
Mt. Mazama, 275.
Movement to colonize Oregon, 60.
Multnomah Falls, 334.
Multnomah townsite project, 60.
Myers, Jefferson breaks ground
for L. & C. Exposition, 287.
Negro Slavery submitted to the
people, 166.
Negroes forbidden in Oregon, 102
Nesmith, James W., 87, 175.
New Year's Reception to ex-Gov-
ernors, 310.
Nootka Sound discovered by
Juan Perez, 26.
Nez Perces send for White Man's
Book of Heaven, 68.
Normal School at Monmouth, 227.
North Bank Road, 294.
"Northwest America" built, 30.
Northwest College of Law or-
ganized, 241.
North-West Fur Company, Gl.
406
HISTORY OF OREGON
Nursery, first Oregon, 109.
Nymphs of the Cascades, 350.
Oak Point, 54.
"O'Cain," 54.
Ogden . ransoms Waiilatpu cap-
tives, 116.
Olney, Judge Cyrus, 166.
Oregon — compared with other
states, 9; with Great Britain,
9; with Massachusetts, 12;
Epochs, 13; earliest account
of, 15; Book of Stone, 15; ori-
gin and meaning, 16; what we
know of, 17; where rolls the,
19; discovery of, 19; boundary
of, 20; explorations that led
to discovery of, 21 ; discovered
by land. 36; trail, 47; joint
occupation of, 58; under Pro-
visional Government, 91; or-
ganic laws of, 96; divided into
four counties, 96; no man's
land, 98; Rangers, 99; question,
settlement of, 108 ; apples sold
at $1.25 per bu., 110; Coast
Range ablaze, 110; Forest fire
(1848), 112; "Rifles" sent to
The Dalles, 116; proclaimed a
territory, 125; Exchange Com-
pany, 128 ; first Custom House,
148; divided into territories,
153 ; Constitutional Conven-
tion, 166; under State Govern-
ment, 171; Enabling Act
Passed, 172; Oregon State
Seal, 174; Floods, 181; Central
R. R. Co., 193; Caves, 208;
State Flower, 266; Bible Train-
ing College, 272; bank holi-
days, 293; "Grand Old Man,"
299; Forestry Board, 306; Gold
output, 319; in World War,
323; literature, 341; "Rain,"
346; "Journal," 377; Names,
378.
"Oregon," Battleship, 263.
Oregon hills of glass, 89.
Oregon Historical Society, 267.
Oregon Horse, fossils of disooy-
ered by Thomas Condon, 215.
O. R. & N. Co. incorporated, 231.
Oregon Institute, 84.
Oregon System, 282.
Oregon Trail marked by Ezra
Meeker, 291.
Oregon Trail monument expedi-
tion, 291.
Oregonian discovers gold in Cali-
fornia, 121.
Orleans carried away by flood,
182.
Pacific College, 255.
Pacific Fur Company organized,
54.
Pacific Highway, 331.
Pacific Republic, 174.
Pacific University, 159.
Parker, Rev. Samuel, 74, 75.
Patriotism, Oregon, 6.
Pendleton Round-Up, 298.
Penitentiary outbreak, 232.
Pennoyer, Gov., 245.
Philomath College, 191.
Pillars of Hercules, 333.
Pittman, Miss Anna M., 71.
Piute-Bannock War, 223.
Portlan^Jn-4853,JL65^
Poultry Industry Improved, 319.
Povey, G. W., 269.
Powell, Joab, baptized 3000, 150.
Prehistoric burial moimds, 235.
Prehistoric inscriptions on Co-
lumbia, 234.
Prehistoric wrecks along Oregon
coast, 315.
Printing press, first in Pacific
Northwest, 75.
Pritchett, Gov., 131.
Prohibition Law, 101.
Provisional Government voted at
Champoeg, 93.
Pulpit Rock, 72.
Purchase of Louisiana, 37.
Railroad extended to iCalifomia,
194; built to Roseburg, 194;
noted bridge, 242.
"Raccoon," 57.
INDEX
407
Reed College, 289.
Reading clubs, 258.
Regan, Chief, 224.
"Rhododendron Bells," 357.
Rlcarees, treaty with, 40.
Rogue River War, 135 ; heroine of,
142; first treaty with, 136; last
battle with, 143; second treaty
with, 141; third outbreak, 142.
Root, Elihu, donates cannon for
2nd Oreg. Regiment medals,
270.
Roosevelt, President, lays comer
stone L. & H. Elxposition, 286.
Sfacajawea, 40, 41, 42.
"Sailor Diggin's," 151.
Salem, first mansion in, 79.
Salmon industry, 184, 185.
Salem becomes permanent capi-
tal, 187.
Salem Indian Training School,
241.
Salmon Seal, 96.
San Diego discovered, 25.
Sandwich Islands discovered, 28.
Sand pinnacles, 276.
Santiam Academy, 86.
School, first in Northwest, 67.
School land, thirty-sixth section,
124.
Scott, Bishop T. F., 145.
Scott, Harvey W., 373.
Seal of Provisional Government,
96.
Second Oregon, organization of
268; return of, 269.
Senators from Oregon, 340.
Shepard, Cyrus, 69.
Sheridan Academy, 86.
Ship building in Oregon, 324.
Simpson, Bishop Matthew, 86.
Simpson, Sam. L., 342.
Slacum creates interest in Ore-
gon, 77, 78.
Smoke Stacks on Columbia, 44.
Snyke River canyon, 327.
Snell, Dr. Margaret, 251.
"Snowdrift," 345.
Social Hygiene Society, 329.
Soldier's Home, 255.
"Sonora," 26.
Southern Oregon emigrant road,
opened, 107; military road, 132.
Spalding, Rev. H. H., 75.
"Spectator," 109.
Spokane Mission located, 76.
Stanley, D. T., 161, 227.
Stars and Stripes over Astoria,
58.
State Biologist, 306.
State Board of School Examiners
created, 207.
Statement No. 1, 283.
State Library, 320.
State Library seal, 321.
Stage lines and pony express, 196
State Motto, "The Union," 171.
State Normal School, 161.
State School fund, and 500,000
acre land grant, 188.
State Text Book Commission
Created, 271,
Steel, Will G., 16.
Sublette, William, 61.
Sublimity Institute, 192.
Suffering of miners, 178.
Supreme Court Library, seal of,
284.
Supreme Court, organized, 284.
Summers, Colonel, 269.
Sunday, "Billy," 328.
Sunrise on the Willamette, 357.
Synchronized Chart of World,
198.
Table Rock, battle of, 139.
Tallapus and the Cedar Tree, 51.
Territorial seal and motto, 127.
Thayer, Gov. W. W., 226.
The Dalles Academy, 86.
The Dalles Mission sold to Doc-
tor Whitman, 72.
"The Days of '49," 394.
Thornton, J. Quinn, 123.
Three Sisters, 249.
"To a Wave," 368.
"To Juanita," 388.
To-Night. 353.
'Tonquin," 54, 56.