Chapter C: R. Rogg, who is engaged in the furniture and undertaking business in (7)

O. Z. Skinner was educated in the district schools of his native state and in the Jefferson Liberal Institute at Jefferson, Wisconsin. After completing his education he was for some years engaged in merchandising in Durand, Wisconsin, and still later turned his attention to the drug business, which he conducted in Fairmont, Minnesota, for a number of years. He was afterward for thirteen years identified with the lumber industry in northern Wisconsin, acquiring extensive farming lands there also, which during these years he operated in connection with the conduct of his lumber interests. The year 1898 witnessed the arrival of Mr. Skinner in the northwest. In that year he became a resident of Walla Walla and entered the manufacturing field, concentrating his efforts upon the manufacture of mattresses and furniture. He continued active along that line for five years and then turned his attention to the real estate and insurance business, with which he has since been prominently identified. He owns extensive timber land in Union county, Oregon, and in the summer of 1917 began cutting timber therefrom. He realizes what this state has to offer and has improved its natural resources, thereby advancing his individual interests while promoting general progress and prosperity.

On the 18th of September, 1881, Mr. Skinner was married to Miss Ella M. Young, of Dunn county, Wisconsin, who was a teacher in the public schools of that county for a number of years. To this marriage have been born three children, Arthur, Leslie C. and Ethel V.

Mr. Skinner gives his political endorsement to the republican party and is well informed on the questions and issues of the day. He stands for progress along political lines and does everything in his power to advance the success of the party, yet does not seek or desire office. He belongs to Blue Mountain Lodge, No. 13, F. & A. M., and is a faithful follower of its teachings. Those who know him in a business way speak of him as a dominant factor in the upbuilding of Walla Walla and as one who has made for himself a notable place especially in real estate circles.

ALFRED L. WICKERSHAM.

Alfred L. Wickersham, a leading farmer and stock raiser of Walla Walla township, Walla Walla county, holds title to two valuable ranches and is meeting with signal success in the management of his affairs. He was born in Walla Walla county, February 7, 1871, a son of John and Christina (Albertson) Wickersham, natives of Ohio, who removed to this county in 1862. For a number of years the father devoted his time and attention to freighting, as there were then no railroads in this entire section, hauling freight from Wallula to the mines at Umatilla Landing, Boise and many other points, also the fort at Boise, to Fort Lapwai and Fort Colville. At length he purchased eighty acres of land, including the site of the present race track at Walla Walla and followed farming during the remainder of his active life. He passed away September 19, 1906. The mother, however, is still living and makes her home with a son. Ten children were born to their union but only five survive.

Alfred L. Wickersham grew to manhood in his native county and his education was that afforded by the public schools. By the time that he reached man's estate he was a good practical farmer, having received training in the cultivation of the soil and the care of stock from his father. He purchased the farm on Mill creek in Walla Walla township, where he still makes his home and which comprises three hundred and fifty-five acres. He also owns three hundred and twenty acres of fine pasture land and in addition to growing wheat and other crops suited to this section he raises stock on an extensive scale and has found that business likewise profitable.

Mr. Wickersham is a stanch democrat, his political belief coinciding in large measure with the principles of that party. Although he has never failed to do his part in furthering the progress of his community, he has not taken a prominent part in politics, having no desire to hold office. He is a man of unassuming disposition and of genuine worth and his energy, his sound judgment and his unquestioned integrity have gained for him the respect of his fellowmen.

JONATHAN PETTIJOHN.

Jonathan Pettijohn, who was an honored pioneer settler and valued citizen of Walla Walla county, was born in Ohio, January 13, 1827, but when still a boy emigrated with his parents to Edgar county, Illinois, where he remained until he was twenty-three years of age. He assisted his widowed mother in rearing the family of children, of whom he was the eldest. In the year 1850 the lure of gold attracted him to the west. He and three companions started for California on horseback, and as some of their horses died en route they walked much of the way. On reaching the Golden state, Mr. Pettijohn at once went to work in the mines, where he met with fair success, there remaining for two years. He then removed to Oregon, settling in Harrisburg, Linn county, where he was married to Miss Hannah Warner in the year 1853. They took up their abode on a claim and Mr. Pettijohn followed farming. In 1859 he came with his family to Walla Walla county, Washington, and settled on a claim in the beautiful Touchet valley. He spent the winter of 1859 and 1860 here and early in the spring went to the Willamette, after which he removed his family to this valley. Their home was situated a few miles below the present town site of Prescott. He erected a log cabin which still stands as a monument to the early days. He brought with him to this county a band of fine horses and some cattle and, like most of the early settlers, engaged in stock raising. Starting with one hundred and sixty acres of land, during the course of years he kept gradually acquiring more land until finally he owned about thirty-four hundred acres of valuable farming and pasture land, on which he had large herds of fine horses and cattle. Later in life, when the stock business began to wane on account of the disappearance of the free range, he plowed up his holdings and became a wheat farmer in earnest.

Mr. and Mrs. Pettijohn reared a large family of seven sons and two daughters, namely: Thomas, Amas, Eli and John H., all of whom were born in Oregon; and Huldah, A. L., Sherman, Calvin and Mary, who were natives of Washington. All are now living but two, Eli and Mrs. Huldah Richmond. Of those surviving all are married except the youngest son, and are fairly prosperous, enjoying the possessions bequeathed them by their frugal parents. All are still residents of Walla Walla county.

Mr. Pettijohn assisted three territories over the threshold into statehood by voting for the state constitutions of California, Oregon and Washington, and he was a delegate to the constitutional convention of Washington. In the way of public education he was indeed a benefactor. Public money for school purposes was often inadequate to meet the teacher's salary. He felt that the school must be maintained at any cost so he often paid most of the amount of the salary out of his own pocket. He believed in the employment of thoroughly efficient and competent teachers and some of the best teachers that the country afforded taught in that little country school near his home and received a salary equal to any. Another work in which Mr. Pettijohn deserves creditable mention was in connection with a scheme that was put forth to bond Walla Walla county for three hundred thousand dollars to subsidize a railroad company. Mr. Pettijohn with a number of others enjoined the county from making the appropriation, although many were in favor of the issue. There was a very wordy war between the two factions and every inducement was brought to bear upon Mr. Pettijohn, the leader, to change his course, but with characteristic determination he stood for what he conceived to be right and and won out. In after years many thanked him for the stand he had taken, as time has justified the wisdom and value of his position.

Mr. Pettijohn was of a very sturdy type of manhood and a splendid representative of the class of hardy pioneers, who helped to make this county what it is--a land of fine schools and beautiful homes. Along in the early '60s mines were discovered in Idaho, Montana and Oregon and supplies were necessary for the miners in the various camps. So the settlers fitted out pack trains or freight wagons and packed or hauled freight to all points where needed, the pay being sufficient to make it very profitable. Mr. Pettijohn chose the ox team and freight wagon for his and for a number of years spent much time on the road freighting. His wife remained at home caring for her family amid the dangers and hardships incident to pioneer life. She was a woman of rare courage, going calmly about her duties with hordes of half-savage Indians camped at her very door. On occasions they would creep up and peer in at the window as she sat at her work. She pretended not to notice them, knowing that if she showed fear or concern they would become insolent. Not one of these noble women but met with experiences that would make the bravest heart quail, yet they never complained, for it seemed a part of life's duties to endure without a murmur.

Mr. Pettijohn passed away in June, 1913, at a ripe old age, joining that large number who have left very thin the ranks of the real pioneers remaining. His memory, however, is enshrined in the hearts of many who knew him and long years will pass before his work in the community will be forgotten.

ELLERY J. NELSON.

Ellery J. Nelson is engaged in general farming on section 30, township 8 north, range 36 east, Walla Walla county, and it was upon this farm that he was born on the 22d of August, 1871, a son of Hiram and Sarah (McInroe) Nelson. He was educated in the Valley Grove district school and also in the Walla Walla Business College, thus becoming well equipped for life's practical and responsible duties. His youth was also largely devoted to farm work and he early became familiar with the best methods of tilling the soil and caring for the crops. After reaching young manhood he continued to assist his father in his extensive farming operations and was thus engaged until 1900, when he began farming on his own account. He is now operating a portion of his father's landed holdings and is ranked among the successful and progressive agriculturists of the county. He pursues the most thoroughly up-to-date methods in caring for his fields, and in the cultivation of his crops is meeting with excellent success, annually gathering substantial harvests.

On the 1st of July, 1915, Mr. Nelson was united in marriage to Miss Julia Kane, of St. Louis, Missouri, and to them were born two sons, Ellery J., Jr., deceased, and Joseph Vincent. In his political views Mr. Nelson has always been a republican since attaining his majority, and while he does not seek nor desire office he is always loyal to the best interests of the community and gives active aid and cooperation to many measures for the benefit of town and county. He concentrates his efforts and attention upon his farming interests, which are wisely and carefully directed, and as the years pass by he is meeting with a gratifying measure of success.

WILLIAM E. GROSS.

William E. Gross, a resident farmer of Walla Walla township who is engaged in dairying and stock raising, was born in Davis county, Iowa, on the 15th of February, 1858, his parents being B. H. and Julia A. (Rice) Gross, the former a native of Illinois, while the latter was born in Ohio. They resided for some time in Iowa and then determined to cross the plains, making the journey with ox teams. This was in the year 1862. They first settled in Nevada, where they resided for eight years, and then removed to northern California, where they remained for a decade. On the expiration of that period, or in the fall of 1880, they came to Walla Walla county, Washington, where they took up their abode upon a farm which continued to be their home until a few years before they were called to their final rest. They moved to Walla Walla, where they passed the last years of their lives. They had a family of nine children, of whom six are now living.

William E. Gross was largely reared and educated in Nevada and in California, his opportunities being those offered by the common schools. He studied through the winter months and in the summer seasons aided in the farm work. When his textbooks were put aside he concentrated his entire attention upon farming and became identified with the agricultural interests of Walla Walla county, where he owned nine hundred and sixty acres of valuable land. He afterward disposed of the more extensive tract and bought the farm upon which he now resides, comprising one hundred and sixty-seven acres. This he has since improved with fine buildings. He now makes a specialty of dairying and has an excellent herd of Holstein cattle. His dairy is well equipped in every particular and he has the most sanitary arrangements for the care of the milk and the handling of his products. He also engaged in raising Duroc Jersey hogs and his live stock interests as well as his dairying constitute important features of his business.

On the 11th of December, 1881, Mr. Gross was united in marriage to Miss Mary E. Cusker, who was born in Walla Walla county and is a daughter of James and Clementine (Hayworth) Cusker, the former a native of Washington, D. C., while the latter was born in Indiana. The father made his way westward to Oregon when a youth of but thirteen years and later he became a resident of Walla Walla county. Over forty years ago he settled upon the farm now occupied by Mr. and Mrs. Gross and both he and his wife died upon this place. To Mr. and Mrs. Gross have been born six children: Elsie R., at home; Mabel A., the wife of E. Fluke, who has now departed this life; James B., at home; Orien W.; Myron W.; and Myrtle Irene.

Mr. Gross holds membership with the Ancient Order of United Workmen and is a member of the Christian church, guiding his life by its teachings and conforming his actions to its principles. He has been progressive in all that he has undertaken and in his business affairs has shown sound judgment and keen discrimination. He has never been afraid of hard work nor of close application and is numbered among those who, taking advantage of the great natural resources of the northwest, have won success, gaining a place among the most substantial citizens of this part of the state.

HON. CHESTER F. MILLER.

Hon. Chester F. Miller is judge of the superior court of the district which embraces Columbia, Garfield and Asotin counties of Washington. He resides in Dayton and is one of the honored and distinguished residents of the southeastern part of the state. He has lived in the same voting precinct for fifty-seven years and has thus been closely associated with the development and progress of his section of the state from pioneer times to the present. Nature endowed him with keen intellect and he has constantly developed his powers until he is recognized as the peer of the ablest jurists who have sat upon the bench of the superior court in the northwest. He was born in Linn county, Oregon, January 6, 1860, a son of George W. and Sarah E. (Ping) Miller, both of whom were natives of Indiana. The father was born in Crawfordsville, that state, on the 6th of April, 1830, and was a son of John Miller, a native of Tennessee, who in turn was a son of John Miller, a Revolutionary war soldier. George W. Miller crossed the plains with his parents to Oregon in 1851, the journey being made with ox teams and wagon. The family home was established on a donation claim in Linn county and George W. Miller also took up a claim near Albany, where the parents settled. He served in the Indian wars of 1855 and in 1860 he came to Washington, taking up a homestead where the city of Dayton now stands. Later he sold that property and removed to Garfield county. His wife, who bore the maiden name of Sarah E. Ping, crossed the plains with her parents in 1852, the Ping family settling in Linn county, Oregon.

Judge Chester Franklin Miller was an infant of but six months when his parents arrived at what is now Dayton. He acquired his early education in the district school, being a pupil in the little old schoolhouse on the hill, and he attributes much of his later success in life to the thoroughness of his instruction at that period, his teacher being the Hon. Oliver C. White, who was then a country school teacher. Subsequently Judge Miller attended a private school in Dayton for two years and there prepared for college under the preceptorship of the Hon. J. E. Edmiston, who was at that time one of the instructors in the Dayton College. Mr. Edmiston and Judge Miller were afterward law partners, their association being maintained for nine years. In 1878 Judge Miller entered the Willamette University at Salem, Oregon, where he continued his studies for a year and still later became a student in the Oregon State University, from which he was graduated with honors in the class of 1882. Three years later his alma mater conferred upon him the degree of Master of Arts. Following his graduation he returned to Dayton and while acting as deputy clerk of the district court he read law under the direction of Colonel Wyatt A. George, the nestor of the Columbia county bar, who was known as "Old Equity" by his fellow practitioners.

In 1886 Judge Miller was admitted to the bar by Judge Langford on the recommendation of T. J. Anders, D. J. Crowley and R. F. Sturdevant, his examining committee, and soon afterward entered the office of M. A. Baker and commenced the practice of law. In 1889 he formed a law partnership with the Hon. J. E. Edmiston, which continued until the close of the year 1890, when Mr. Edmiston was elected prosecuting attorney. Judge Miller and his brother-in-law, Charles R. Dorr, then became partners and in 1892, upon the death of Mr. Dorr, Judge Miller again entered into partnership relations with Mr. Edmiston, with whom he continued to practice until the latter's death in 1900. No dreary novitiate awaited Judge Miller. Almost from the onset he was accorded a liberal practice which constantly grew in volume and importance as the years went on. He won for himself very favorable criticism for the careful and systematic methods which he followed. He has remarkable powers of concentration and application and his retentive mind has often excited the surprise of his professional colleagues. As an orator he ranks high, especially in the discussion of legal matters before the court, where his comprehensive knowledge of the law is manifest and his application of legal principles demonstrates the wide range of his professional acquirements. It was but natural that the ability which he displayed in his profession should win for him the recognition that demanded his service in public office. In 1893 he was elected mayor of Dayton and he served at different periods as city attorney and clerk of the city of Dayton. In 1900 he was elected to the office of superior judge and was reelected to that position in 1904 by a greatly increased majority. Reelection has since continued him upon the bench of the superior court, where he has displayed a masterful grasp of every problem presented for solution. Moreover, his decisions indicate strong mentality, careful analysis, a thorough knowledge of the law and an unbiased judgment.

On the 24th of May, 1888, Judge Miller was united in marriage to Miss Nettie Dorr, a daughter of Dr. J. C. and Ellen R. Dorr, who were among the earliest settlers of California, and in 1879 came to Columbia county, Washington. The father was a member of the California Legislature of 1864 and later became recognized as one of the prominent and distinguished citizens of this state. Judge and Mrs. Miller are the parents of six daughters, namely: Haidee, Sarah, Hilda, Conchita, Luneta and Alice.

There is an interesting military chapter in the life record of Judge Miller, who was captain of Company F of the First Washington Volunteer Infantry during the Spanish-American war, being mustered into the United States service with his company on the 11th of May, 1898. He sailed with his regiment for the Philippines in October of that year and there acquitted himself with credit until incapacitated by illness, when he was sent home and on the 12th of May, 1899, was honorably discharged from the service. Judge Miller is a past commander of Dayton Lodge, No. 3, K. P.; a past master of Dayton Lodge, No. 53, F. & A. M.; a past high priest of Dayton Chapter, No. 5, R. A. M.; a past grand of Patit Lodge, No. 10, I. O. O. F.; a past chief patriarch of Franklin Encampment, No. 13, I. O. O. F.; and past grand master of the grand lodge of Odd Fellows of the state of Washington. He also has membership with the Woodmen, the Workmen, the Eastern Star, the Rebekahs and the Rathbone Sisters. Such in brief is the record of Judge Miller, one of the oldest of the pioneer settlers of Columbia county who can claim to be a native son, one of the most progressive citizens and one of the most eminent jurists of southeastern Washington. His name is written high on the roll of honor in Columbia county and his seventeen years' service on the bench indicates that he possesses the broad-mindedness which not only comprehends the details of a situation quickly but also which insures a complete self-control under even the most exasperating conditions. He has made a splendid record in the discharge of his multitudinous, often delicate, duties and is spoken of by his colleagues and contemporaries as a man of well rounded character, finely balanced mind and of splendid intellectual attainments.

CLARK WALTER.

In this day of international warfare one is apt to think back over the history of the country to see what is the American record in times of strife. History presents many tales of heroism, showing that the American character is one that measures up to full standards of loyalty, of duty and of courage. Among those who fought for the preservation of the Union during the dark days of the Civil war was Clark Walter, who is now a retired farmer residing in Walla Walla.

Mr. Walter was born near South Bend, Indiana, on the 7th of April, 1841, a son of Lucius and Adaline (Fellows) Walter, the former a native of the state of New York, while the latter was probably born in Connecticut. They were married in the Empire state and became parents of two children there before they removed to Michigan about 1839 or 1840. The mother's people had preceded them to that state but after a brief period passed in Michigan, Mr. and Mrs. Walter went to Indiana, establishing their home near Notre Dame. At a later period, however, they returned to Michigan, where the death of the mother occurred in 1853. The father afterward married Miss Anna Dopp and continued to reside in Michigan until called to the home beyond.

Clark Walter was reared in that state and pursued a common school education there. He was twenty years of age when in April, 1861, he responded to the country's call for troops, enlisting for three months as a member of the Second Michigan Infantry. It was soon seen, however, that the war was to be no mere holiday affair and he offered his services for three years, joining the army on the 30th of July, 1861, in response to the call for three years' men. He was mustered in as a member of Company A, Sixth Michigan Volunteer Infantry, and at Baltimore, Maryland, was assigned to General Dixie's command. The army remained in Baltimore until February, 1862, when they were sent to Fort Monroe and afterward to Ship Island in the Gulf of Mexico for the attack on New Orleans. After General Farragut's capture of New Orleans they went on transports up the river to Vicksburg and later returned to Baton Rouge, Louisiana. On the 14th of October, 1862, Mr. Walter was honorably discharged from the service on account of disability. He had participated in a number of important engagements and at all times had proven his marked loyalty to the cause which he espoused.

After receiving an honorable discharge Mr. Walter returned to Michigan and in 1864 he crossed the plains to California, making the trip for the benefit of his health, which was still impaired because of the rigors of his military service. In the fall of 1865 he returned eastward as far as Minnesota, taking up his abode in Dakota county. He afterward removed to Sibley county, that state. He had married in Michigan in 1864, prior to crossing the plains, and with his family he continued his residence in Minnesota until 1877, when he once more crossed the plains, this time accompanied by his wife and three children. Arriving in Oregon, he settled near Athena in Umatilla county, where he purchased a quarter section of railroad land and began farming. He had used his homestead right in Minnesota, but the grasshopper scourge which continued for four years in that state caused him to lose all that he had, so that he came to Oregon with but very little money. He acquired two hundred and forty acres in his home place, on which he resided until 1898, when he removed to Walla Walla in order to give his children the advantages offered by the city schools. He has here since made his home and is one of the valued and respected residents.

On the 7th of March, 1864, Mr. Walter was united in marriage to Miss Hannah B. Kinsey, and they became the parents of eight children, six of whom still survive, namely: Mabel L., who is the wife of Dr. J. A. Moffitt, of Sacramento, California; Charles A., who follows farming in Walla Walla county; Edith, who is a Sister of St. Francis in the convent at Pendleton and is a painter and musician of ability, teaching both arts at the convent; John C., who operates a farm of his own and also his father's place in Umatilla county, Oregon; Francis H., who is a resident of Pierce county, Washington; and Gertrude, who is the wife of Elmer T. Matheny, of Walla Walla.

Mrs. Walter is descended from Revolutionary stock, her maternal great-grandfather having served for seven years in the war for independence. His sister, Deborah Sampson, also served as a common soldier in that war, being disguised as a man and known by the name of Robert Shurtliff. She carried a gun and participated in numerous battles, being twice wounded, once through the arm and later through the breast. She recovered and subsequently married. She was received by General Washington, who conferred honors upon her, and she was one of the few women given a life pension by our government. Mrs. Walter's grandfather Sampson was a soldier of the War of 1812.

In his political views Mr. Walter is a stalwart democrat, and while never an aspirant for public office, he has repeatedly been honored in local affairs. He was elected to the board of county commissioners of Sibley county, Minnesota. He served as justice of the peace, as town clerk and as assessor in Sibley county and after his removal to the west was appointed to fill a vacancy on the board of county commissioners of Umatilla county, Oregon, and was twice thereafter regularly elected thereto, serving for six years. He was a member of the board and one of the leading factors in the building of the new one hundred thousand dollar courthouse of Umatilla county. He served continuously as a member of the school board almost from the time of his arrival in Umatilla county until his removal to Walla Walla. Fraternally Mr. Walter is connected with Blue Mountain Lodge, No. 13, F. & A. M., with A. Lincoln Post, No. 4, G. A. R., and is most loyal to the teachings and purposes of these organizations. Through his connection with the latter he maintains pleasant associations with his old army comrades and proudly wears the little bronze button that proclaims him as one of the "boys in blue." There is in his life record nothing spectacular but his career is one that places him with the substantial citizens of the northwest--men who have consistently done their duty year by year and in the legitimate advancement of their own fortunes have contributed to the upbuilding and prosperity of the district in which they live.

CHARLES COYLE.

Charles Coyle is a partner in the firm of Coyle Brothers, well known dairy farmers of Walla Walla county. His home is on section 27, township 7 north, range 35 east. He was born in Oregon, September 14, 1865, and is a son of James Coyle, who is mentioned elsewhere in this work in connection with the sketch of Byrd Coyle. He came to Walla Walla county when but a year old, the parents removing with their family to this state. He has since lived upon the farm which he now occupies and which is therefore endeared to him through the associations of boyhood as well as those of later years. He acquired a common school education and when not busy with his textbooks his attention was given to the work of the fields, for he was early trained to the tasks of plowing, planting and harvesting. He remained at home until he attained his majority, since which time he and his brothers have carried on farming together and have long made a specialty of dairying. In this business they are very successful and for that purpose they keep a large herd of fine cattle. Everything about their dairy is in excellent condition. Their arrangements are of the most sanitary and the products of their dairy find a ready sale on the market.

In 1911 Mr. Coyle was married to Miss Lela Truitt, a native of Missouri, who in 1909 became a resident of Walla Walla, where her parents are still living. To Mr. and Mrs. Coyle have been born three children, Inez M., C. Bruce and Maxine. The parents are members of the Christian church and in politics Mr. Coyle is a democrat. He has served as school director and as school clerk in his district and is interested in all that tends to promote educational progress. In fact he stands for advancement and improvement along all lines and is acknowledged a man of worth, highly esteemed wherever known and most of all where he is best known.

CLYDE H. BROWN.

Farming interests of Walla Walla county find a worthy representative in Clyde H. Brown, who is living on section 4, township 9 north, range 36 east. He was born in Waitsburg, this county, on the 18th of June, 1877, a son of Albert N. and Justina (Kent) Brown. The father was a native of Iowa and the mother of Illinois, but they were married in Kansas, where they had lived for some years, each removing to that state with their parents. In 1876 they came to the Pacific coast, making their way westward by train to San Francisco and thence by boat to Portland. The following fall and winter were spent in the Willamette valley and in the spring of 1877 they came by wagon and team to Walla Walla county, Washington, taking up their abode upon a homestead claim two miles north of Waitsburg. The father proved up on this property and there resided for five years. He afterward removed to a small place one mile west of Waitsburg, upon which he also spent five years. At the expiration of that period he sold the property and purchased the Bolles Junction ranch of four hundred and twenty acres half way between Waitsburg and Prescott. Upon that place he lived for thirteen years and then disposed of the property and purchased the farm upon which his son Clyde H. now resides, adjoining the city limits of Prescott. Here he owned nine hundred acres of land which he continued to cultivate and improve up to the time of his death in January, 1911. His widow is still living and makes her home with her son Clyde.

A western man by birth, training and preference, Clyde H. Brown displays in his life the spirit of enterprise and progress which have ever been a dominant factor in the upbuilding of this section of the country. He was educated in the Bolles Junction school and in the Waitsburg public schools and was early trained to the work of the farm, assisting in the tasks of plowing, planting and harvesting from early boyhood. On account of his father's ill health the management of the farm devolved upon him when he was yet a young man and he has since continued in control, carefully and wisely directing the development and further improvement of the place. He has brought the fields under a high state of cultivation and upon the farm there are substantial buildings which indicate the care and supervision of the owner. He seems to lose sight of nothing that should be accomplished in the work of further developing his place and his labors have brought substantial results.

On the 15th of September, 1899, Mr. Brown was united in marriage to Miss Ethel Miller, of Bolles Junction, and to them have been born two sons and a daughter, Myrle, Duane and Iris.

In his political views Mr. Brown is a stalwart republican. He belongs to Waitsburg Lodge, No. 16, F. & A. M.; Walla Walla Chapter, No. 1, R. A. M.; Washington Commandery, K. T., of Walla Walla; and El Katif Temple, A. A. O. N. M. S., of Spokane. He also has membership with Prescott Lodge, No. 46, I. O. O. F., and he and his wife are members of Waitsburg Chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star. Mrs. Brown is also connected with the Methodist Episcopal church. They are widely and favorably known in their part of Walla Walla county and have an extensive circle of warm friends who esteem them highly. Their social qualities, their loyalty in citizenship and their devotion to the best interests of the community insure for them an enviable position in the public regard.

ANDY TAYLOR.

Andy Taylor, one of the extensive wheat growers of Walla Walla county, within the borders of which he has resided for the past three decades, makes his home in the city of Walla Walla. For some years he engaged in the cultivation of seven hundred and ninety-seven acres of land nine miles north of Prescott and also operates a tract of two thousand acres under lease. His birth occurred in Greene county, Tennessee, on the 15th of July, 1857, his parents being William and Susan (Carey) Taylor, who were also natives of that state. In 1889, one year after the arrival of their son Andy, they made their way to the Pacific coast country and for a time resided in Oregon. Subsequently, however, they took up their abode in Walla Walla and here spent the remainder of their lives.

Andy Taylor spent the first nineteen years of his life in the state of his nativity and about 1876 removed to Petersburg, Illinois, where he was actively engaged in general agricultural pursuits for more than a decade. It was in 1887 that he came to Walla Walla county, Washington, and here he was employed as a ranch hand for a period of five years. At the end of that time, in 1893, he took up a homestead ten miles north of Walla Walla, residing thereon for five years or until he established the family home in the city of Walla Walla, where it has since been maintained. In the fall of 1917 he disposed of his tract north of Prescott. The prosperity which he now enjoys is indeed well merited, for he has ever manifested industry, enterprise and keen discrimination and in the management of his extensive interests has been notably practical, persistent and progressive.

In 1884 Mr. Taylor was united in marriage to Miss Mollie C. Ragsdill, of Menard county, Illinois, by whom he has two sons: Lowell Oakley, a successful agriculturist of Walla Walla county; and Brooks Andy, who engages in wheat growing with his father. Although a grandmother Mrs. Taylor is now a student at St. Paul's School, where she expects to complete the school work begun in her girlhood, having a great desire for a higher education than she could obtain at that time. This is very unusual for a woman past fifty years of age but shows her strength of character and perseverance. Mr. Taylor gives his political allegiance to the republican party, which he has supported since age conferred upon him the right of franchise. Fraternally he is identified with the following organizations: Blue Mountain Lodge, No. 13, F. & A. M.; Walla Walla Chapter, No. 1, R. A. M.; Enterprise Lodge, No. 2, I. O. O. F.; Walla Walla Encampment, No. 3, I. O. O. F.; and Walla Walla Lodge, No. 287, B. P. O. E. Mr. Taylor and his two sons are all thirty-second degree Masons as well as members of the Odd Fellows lodge and encampment, while his wife and sons are identified with the Order of the Eastern Star, and Mrs. Taylor is a member of the Daughters of Rebekahs. Mr. Taylor is also a member of the Farmers Union and is widely and favorably known in Walla Walla county, where he has won friends and fortune.

ALBERT R. MATTOON.

Albert R. Mattoon is a representative farmer of Walla Walla county who deserves mention among the self-made men. He had no assistance when he started out in the business world but early realized that energy and effort will bring substantial results and by reason of his unfaltering diligence he has gained a place among the leading farmers of his section of the county. He was born in Oregon, July 12, 1853, and is the only child of Aruna and Eliza A. (Trullinger) Mattoon. The father was a native of the state of New York, while the mother was born in Indiana. It was in 1847 that they crossed the plains, making the journey with ox teams and taking up their abode near Oregon City, Oregon. Mr. Mattoon secured a donation claim, upon which not a furrow had been turned nor an improvement made, and there he built a log cabin. The family lived in true pioneer style, for the work of progress and development had scarcely been begun in that region. The Indians far outnumbered the white settlers; the forests stood in their primeval strength; the streams were unbridged and the land uncultivated. Only here and there had some venturesome spirit penetrated into the wildernesses of the west in order to found a home and engage in business. Mr. Mattoon began the development of his farm and continued his residence in Oregon until his demise, but his widow afterward removed to Washington and spent her last days in Walla Walla county.

Albert R. Mattoon was reared and educated in Oregon and remained a resident of that state until 1878, when, at the age of twenty-five years he came to Washington and has since made his home in Walla Walla county save for a brief period. After taking up his abode in the city of Walla Walla he was there engaged in the implement business for fifteen years, ranking with its leading and representative merchants. He then sold his store and returned to Oregon, going first to Riddle, where he engaged in merchandising for seven years. He then disposed of his store at that place and removed to Portland, where he engaged in the real estate business until 1913, when he returned to Walla Walla. He then took up his abode upon the farm on which he now resides, having sixty acres of land on which is raised corn, hay, wheat and garden produce. At the present time, however, he rents most of his land and is now practically living retired.

On the 7th of November, 1880, Mr. Mattoon was married to Mrs. Nancy Jane Knight, a native of Missouri, and to them have been born two sons: Arthur R., who is now living in Portland, Oregon; and Fred V., who is successfully engaged in the hotel business at Wenatchee, Washington. By her first marriage Mrs. Mattoon has one son, P. B. Knight, who resides in Walla Walla. She is a daughter of William Bartlett and Mary (Weaver) Braden, natives of Kentucky and North Carolina respectively. They were married, however, in Tennessee, and from that state removed to Illinois about 1838. Ten years later they went to Missouri, where Mr. Braden died in 1866. In 1870 Mrs. Braden came with her daughter to Walla Walla county, Washington; and here she passed away at the home of Mrs. Mattoon in 1887. She was the mother of twelve children, but only three now survive. In 1873 her daughter, Nancy Jane, became the wife of William C. Knight, who died about a year later.

In his political views Mr. Mattoon has always been a stalwart republican since age conferred upon him the right of franchise and he represented Douglas county, Oregon, for two years in the state legislature, during which period he was instrumental by his vote in electing John H. Mitchell to the office of United States senator. For some years he served on the school board and the cause of education has ever found in him a stalwart supporter. He also belongs to the Odd Fellows lodge at Roseburg, Oregon, and his life is an exemplification of its teachings concerning the brotherhood of man and the obligations thereby imposed. In all of his business career he has shown ready adaptability and resourcefulness, combined with energy and enterprise, and whatever he has undertaken he has carried forward to successful completion. The record which he has made is a very creditable one and his life history shows that success and an honored name may be won simultaneously.

HORACE G. HART.

Horace G. Hart is spoken of by friends and neighbors as a man of high purpose that has found expression in his daily conduct. He is now engaged in general farming on section 3, township 9 north, range 36 east, in Walla Walla county. He was born in Macon county, Missouri, on the 7th of September, 1858, a son of Horace and Margaret E. (Mercer) Hart. The father was a native of Connecticut and the mother of Kentucky. The former first crossed the plains in 1846, making his way to Spalding's mission at Lapwai, Idaho, Mr. Spalding's first wife having been his sister. In the fall of 1848, when gold was first discovered in California, he went to that state and subsequently he crossed the continent four times, twice by way of the Isthmus route and once around the Horn. He was married on the 22d of November, 1855, and in 1864 he brought his family across the plains, making his way to the Touchet valley, where he established his home about twenty miles north of Walla Walla. There he became actively identified with farming and stock raising and acquired two hundred and forty acres of land, upon which he spent his remaining days, passing away September 1, 1892, when in his eightieth year. His experiences were broad and varied, acquainting him with all phases of mining life and with all phases of pioneer life in the far west. On the 29th of May, 1893, his wife passed away when sixty-nine years of age.

Horace G. Hart was reared under the parental roof upon the western frontier, having been but six years of age when the family came to Washington. His education was acquired in the district schools and as early as his eighteenth year he began farming on his own account, operating his father's farm, which he continued to manage until after his father's death. In the meantime, on attaining his majority, he filed on a homestead adjoining his father's place and continued its cultivation in connection with the further development of the old homestead. Following his father's demise he came into possession of the farm on which he still resides, but has sold much of the land, retaining one hundred acres as a home. His career has been that of a very busy man. He has closely applied himself to the care and management of his property interests and he has long ranked with the leading and representative agriculturists of his section of the state.

On the 28th of March, 1881, Mr. Hart was united in marriage to Miss Ollie L. McKinzie, of Walla Walla, a daughter of Isaac McKinzie, one of the early settlers of the county. To this union have been born ten children: Myrtle A., the wife of Daniel Callahan, a farmer of this county; Carl E., of Waitsburg, Washington; Ralph H., a farmer of Walla Walla county; Lulu P., the wife of Arthur Coe, a farmer residing at Milton, Oregon; Mabel, the wife of Herbert E. Carr, of Prescott; Dorsey, a resident of Detroit, Michigan; and Mary, Lester, Loverne and Horace, Jr., all at home.

Since attaining his majority Mr. Hart has given stalwart allegiance to the republican party but has never been an aspirant for public office. He, however, allowed his name to be used on the prohibition ticket for the office of county commissioner. He has always been a staunch advocate of temperance and does everything in his power to advance the cause. He belongs to Prescott Lodge, No. 46, I. O. O. F., and to the Ancient Order of United Workmen. He and his wife are members of the Federated church at Prescott and his aid can always be counted upon to further any movement that tends to uplift the individual or advance the best interests of the community. His standards of life are high and those who know him have come to recognize the fact that his word is as good as his bond.

ALEXANDER PRICE.

Alexander Price was a most prominent and progressive farmer of Columbia county for many years and in his death the community lost one of its valued citizens. He was born in Missouri, November 3, 1847, a son of Joseph S. and Sarah (Williams) Price, the former a native of Kentucky, while the latter was born in Indiana.

Alexander Price was reared and educated in Missouri and was a youth of seventeen years when he crossed the plains, traveling with ox team and wagon after the primitive methods of the period. There were no railroads across the country at that time and with the slow-plodding oxen only a few miles could be covered every day. Thus the trip lengthened out over weeks and months but eventually they reached their destination and Mr. Price became a resident of Yamhill county, Oregon. There he secured employment as a farm hand, remaining in that state until the fall of 1870, when he came to Walla Walla county and took up a homestead nine miles southwest of Dayton. Upon that farm he lived for seven years and his labors wrought a marked transformation in the appearance of the place. His widow still owns that property, which has now become very valuable.

In 1873 Mr. Price was united in marriage to Miss Clarinda J. Anderson, a native of Missouri and a daughter of Thomas and Mary (Power) Anderson, who were natives of Indiana. They removed from that state to Missouri, where the father died in the year 1850. The mother afterward crossed the plains with her family in 1865, spending her last days in Washington. To Mr. and Mrs. Price were born seven children: George F.; Martha, at home; Celestia, the wife of James J. Edwards; Susan M.; Alice L., who has passed away; Homer E.; and Joseph W.

The death of the husband and father occurred in 1906 and he was laid to rest in Dayton cemetery, leaving a widow and six children to mourn his loss. He had been devoted to their welfare and by reason of his capable business management and wise investments, combined with indefatigable energy and industry, he was able to leave his family in very comfortable financial circumstances. Mrs. Price and her children now own more than five thousand acres of valuable wheat land in Columbia county, all of which is improved, and she also has an attractive residence in the city of Dayton, where she is able to enjoy all the comforts and many of the luxuries of life. She belongs to the Congregational church and takes an active interest in its work. In fact, she is ever ready to endorse those plans and measures which tend to uplift the individual or uphold the betterment of the community at large. For many years the Price family has lived in this section of the state, coming here long before Washington was admitted to the Union, and they are prominent not only as pioneers but in those social circles where true worth and intelligence are accepted as the passports into good society.

HON. WILLIAM FARRISH.

In the front ranks of the columns which have advanced the civilization of Washington, Hon. William Farrish has led the way to the substantial development, progress and upbuilding of Asotin county, being particularly active in the growth and progress of the district in which he still makes his home. His memory goes back to the time when the entire Pacific coast was but sparsely settled, when much of the land had not been reclaimed for purposes of civilization but remained in the primitive condition in which it came from the hand of nature. He has lived in the same house in three different counties owing to the division of the old county necessitating change of name and installation of new county governments. He has seen the forests cut, the streams bridged and the work of development carried forward and at all times has borne his part in the general advancement and improvement which has brought Asotin county to its present condition. He was born in Richibucto, province of New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, August 9, 1835, a son of William and Catherine (Smith) Farrish, who were natives of Scotland. The father was a lumberman and thus provided for his family.