BIOGRAPHICAL (continued 15)

In 1886, in Iowa, Mr. Seeliger was united in marriage to Miss Mary Ide, a native of that state, and they have become the parents of ten children, Paul, Frank, Esther, Hilda, William B., Mary, Charles, Lena, Louis and Margaret.

In his fraternal relations Mr. Seeliger is connected with the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks. Politically he is a republican and strongly endorses the principles of the party, for he believes that its platform contains the best elements of good government. He served on the school board for several years and he has ever been a faithful friend of the cause of public education. Mr. Seeliger came to the northwest empty-handed, but he possessed energy and perseverance and his persistency of purpose has enabled him to overcome all the obstacles and difficulties with which one is continually confronted in the business world. His worth as a citizen and as a business man is widely acknowledged by all who know him. His character is one which will bear the closest investigation and scrutiny and Walla Walla county has reason to be congratulated on the fact that he became one of its citizens. The opportunities of this section of the country he realized and he has done much to further public progress in the Inland Empire.

CASSIUS S. ROBINSON.

In the death of Cassius S. Robinson Walla Walla county lost one of its honored pioneer settlers—one who participated in the early Indian wars and took part in many of the events which shaped the pioneer history of this section of the state. He was born in Sidney Center, Maine, in 1847, a son of Seth and Harriett (Frost) Robinson. The family is of Scotch and English descent. The parents spent their entire lives in Maine, where they reared their family of five children.

Cassius S. Robinson left his native state when a youth of eighteen years and made his way westward to Chicago, where he resided for a number of years. He afterward remained in various cities of the middle west until 1876, when attracted by the opportunities of the growing west, he came to Washington, settling in Walla Walla county, where he remained until his death. He always took an active part in community affairs and his aid and influence were always on the side of progress and improvement. He joined the volunteers at the time of the Nez Percé Indian war and rendered distinguished aid in subduing the Indians and reclaiming the region for the purposes of civilization. Mr. Robinson was a painter and glazier by trade and in Walla Walla engaged in business along that line until about fifteen years before his death when he retired. His activities were carefully directed and the success which he achieved and enjoyed was attributable entirely to his capability and skill in his chosen trade. Mr. Robinson was one of the directors of the Third National Bank of Walla Walla and was such at the time of his death.

MR. AND MRS. CASSIUS S. ROBINSON

In 1886 Mr. Robinson was united in marriage to Miss Laura Cornwell, who was a daughter of James M. and Mary Ann (Stott) Cornwell. She survives her husband and is widely and favorably known in Walla Walla, where she has an extensive circle of warm friends. On the 4th of December, 1915, she was called upon to mourn the loss of her husband, who on that day was called to his final rest. He was a member of the Foresters and of the Masonic fraternity and exemplified in his life the beneficent spirit of the craft which is based upon a recognition of the brotherhood of man. He was ever ready to extend a helping hand where aid was needed and he possessed many sterling traits of character which won for him the high regard, confidence and goodwill of all with whom he was associated.

Since her husband's death Mrs. Robinson has resided in Walla Walla, where she is well known. She is a member of the Sunshine Club; the Shakespeare Club; the Eastern Star; and the Presbyterian church. She is also an active worker for the Red Cross. During the latter years of his life Mr. and Mrs. Robinson spent much time in travel, making a trip to Europe in 1910 during the Oberammergau sacred festival which they saw. They also visited Alaska and spent much time on the Sound and several winters in California.

BEN M. TURNER.

Ben M. Turner is a self-made man of Columbia county who from pioneer times has been identified with the agricultural development and with kindred interests in southeastern Washington. Starting out empty-handed, he possessed energy and determination, together with a keen sagacity that has enabled him to recognize and utilize opportunities which others have passed heedlessly by. He now resides on section 19, township 11 north, range 40 east, in Columbia county, and has become well known as a farmer, as a breeder of Belgian horses and as a grain dealer and warehouse man. He was born in Scotland county, Missouri, March 15, 1854, a son of John and Mary (Powers) Turner, the former a native of Virginia, while the latter was born in Indiana. They were married, however, in Missouri, having removed with their respective parents to that state in early life. In 1865 they crossed the plains with ox teams to Oregon, being six months in making the journey. On their arrival they located in Yamhill county, that state, where they lived for about six years and in March, 1871, came to Washington. They took up their abode on Whiskey creek, in what is now Columbia county but was then a part of Walla Walla county, and the father preempted a quarter section of land, upon which he continued to reside until called to his final home.

Ben M. Turner was educated in the district schools but his opportunities in that direction were quite limited. He was a youth of eleven years at the time of the emigration to the northwest and he became an active factor in assisting his father in the arduous task of developing and improving a new farm. Day after day saw him in the fields working to break the sod and cultivate crops, and on reaching his twenty-first year he began farming for himself. He purchased a quit claim to a preemption of one hundred and sixty acres, on which he proved up, and with that tract as a beginning he had extended his farm holdings until he was one of the largest landowners of this section of the state. Of recent years, however, he has disposed of all but two sections of land, which is now being operated by tenants. He retired from active farming, although for many years he was extensively and successfully engaged in the tilling of the soil. He not only brought his fields under a high state of cultivation and demonstrated the possibility of producing fine crops in this section of the state but he also engaged in the breeding of Belgian horses. He secured two of the best mares in the northwest and his horses afterward received awards at the Washington State Fair at North Yakima, the Walla Walla fair and the Cascade Stock Show at North Yakima. In fact he has won premiums on his stock at many fairs in the northwest. Since retiring from active farm work he has given his attention to the grain business and owns and operates an elevator at Turner and is also in charge of the warehouses of the Portland Milling Company at Turner, handling about two hundred and fifty thousand bushels of grain in 1916. He is thus connected with extensive and important business interests, which are carefully directed, for he is a man of sound judgment, keen discrimination and of unfaltering industry.

In January, 1905, Mr. Turner was married to Miss Anna Brofsky, of Dayton. He belongs to Columbia Lodge, No. 26, F. & A. M., and Dayton Chapter, No. 5, R. A. M., and is a most worthy follower of the craft, exemplifying in his life its beneficent teachings concerning the brotherhood of mankind and the obligations thereby imposed. In politics he has always been a democrat but never has he sought public office, preferring to concentrate his energies and attention upon his business interests, which have gained him place among the most substantial citizens of southeastern Washington.

CHARLES M. TAYLOR.

Charles M. Taylor, who in former years was prominently and actively associated with the agricultural development of Walla Walla county, is now living retired in Waitsburg, having put aside the more active work of the fields in order to enjoy a rest which he has truly earned and richly merits. His former activities brought to him a comfortable competence, so that he is now enabled to meet all of the necessities of life and also to enjoy many of its luxuries.

CHARLES M. TAYLOR

MRS. CHARLES M. TAYLOR

Mr. Taylor was born in Johnson county, Missouri, January 10, 1859, a son of Simon and Harriet (Burgess) Taylor, both of whom were natives of West Virginia. In young manhood, or about the time he attained his majority, the father removed westward to Missouri. The mother accompanied her parents to that state when she was but two years of age. There she was reared and eventually they were married in Missouri, where they resided until 1880, when they started for the west, accompanied by their five sons and daughter-in-law, Mrs. C. M. Taylor. Besides the five sons there was one daughter born to them in Missouri but she remained in that state. The family continued their journey to the Sunset state, arriving in Walla Walla on the 20th of March, 1880. The father brought with him some capital and here he purchased a farm of one hundred and sixty acres in Wilson Hollow, about six miles southeast of Waitsburg. With the assistance of his sons he at once began the development and improvement of that place and not long afterward he bought a half section of land, which he and his sons continued to cultivate for a number of years. The father then had the misfortune to lose a leg which was cut off in a horse power machine. His sons then persuaded him to leave the farm and remove to Waitsburg that he might be free of all care and responsibility, and there the last seven or eight years of his life were passed. He died in 1899, while his widow survived him for a considerable period, passing away on the 1st of August, 1911. They were worthy pioneer people of this section of the country, enjoyed the respect and goodwill of all who knew them and Mr. Taylor contributed in no small degree to the agricultural progress in pioneer times.

Charles M. Taylor was reared to manhood in Missouri, being about twenty-one years of age when the family started for the west. He pursued a public school education in his native state and on the 4th of February, 1880, he was united in marriage to Miss Nannie White, a native daughter of Johnson county, Missouri. Within less than a month he and his bride started on their wedding journey to Washington, accompanying his father and brothers, and after reaching this state Charles M. Taylor worked for two years on the Baker Railroad. He was also employed on the Oregon Railroad & Navigation Company's line, after which he concentrated his attention upon farming.

In 1890 Mr. Taylor made his first purchase of land, becoming owner of two hundred acres, which he bought at thirty dollars per acre. This was situated two and a half miles from Waitsburg and is located in Wilson Hollow, the Walla Walla and Columbia county division line passing through his property. Subsequently he bought one hundred and eight acres adjoining, making his home place a valuable tract of three hundred and eight acres. For the the second purchase he paid ninety-five dollars per acre, but today he would refuse one hundred and fifty dollars per acre for the entire farm. In addition to his interests in Walla Walla county he owns six hundred and forty acres in Dawson county, Montana, and an equity in one hundred and sixty acres in the mountains. His farming interests have always been wisely and carefully conducted. He has brought his fields under a high state of cultivation and well kept fences divide his place into tracts of convenient size for development. He practices the rotation of crops and the latest improved methods of farming and understands the scientific principles which underlie his work. His efforts are of a most practical character and it seems that he makes the wisest possible use of his time and opportunities. In addition to his farming interests he became one of the incorporators of the Exchange Bank of Waitsburg and was elected a member of the board of directors, in which capacity he has since served.

To Mr. and Mrs. Taylor was born a daughter, Estella, who is now the wife of Milan Smith, a merchant of Waitsburg. They also have a foster daughter whom they have reared from a child of four years—Isabelle Taylor, who is a graduate of the Waitsburg high school and is now at home.

Mr. Taylor belongs to Waitsburg Lodge, No. 16, A. F. & A. M., also to Touchet Lodge, No. 5, I. O. O. F., while his wife is connected with the Order of the Eastern Star and also with the Rebekah degree of Odd Fellows. Mr. Taylor left the farm and removed to Waitsburg in 1900, after which he continued to operate his land from that point until 1917. He is now living retired, however, leaving the care and management of the property to others. He is one of Waitsburg's foremost citizens. He has one of the handsome homes of the town, with all modern improvements, and he is enjoying in the fullest degree the comforts of life. His success is indeed well merited, for it has been honorably won and his life record proves what may be accomplished when there is a will to dare and to do. He had no assistance when he started out for himself, but he early learned to place his dependence upon industry and indomitable energy and his progressive farming methods enabled him year by year to add to his capital until he is now the possessor of a substantial competence that classes him with the more successful men of Walla Walla county.

FRANCIS M. LOWDEN.

A notably successful career is that of Francis M. Lowden, who is engaged in farming and stock raising and still remains an active factor in business, although he has passed the eighty-sixth milestone on life's journey. He was born in Boone county, Kentucky, February 7, 1832, but much of his youth was passed in Brown county, Illinois, where he resided until 1849, when at the age of seventeen years he crossed the plains with a party of four. The young men traveled on horseback, bringing with them a light wagon pulled by four horses to carry their effects. They first went to Sacramento and from that point Mr. Lowden proceeded to Downieville, where he followed placer mining for a season. Later he went to Nevada City and in 1851 he returned to Sacramento, where he invested the proceeds of his successful mining ventures in mules and engaged in packing, a business which he followed profitably for twenty-one years. His train conveyed freight into various parts of California, Nevada, Idaho, Washington, Oregon and Montana and thus he became familiar with all of the west and its development. Hostile bands of Indians who were on marauding expeditions throughout the country were a menace to him, but by continued watchfulness he managed to avoid loss, standing guard himself and never trusting hired help to this duty. He allowed no fires to be built near his herd and his constant care was rewarded by success. In 1878 he sold his packing business and established his home between Walla Walla and Wallula, Washington, where he engaged in raising and dealing in cattle, but in 1880 he lost about ninety per cent of his herds. He did not allow himself to become discouraged but with resolute purpose sought to retrieve his losses and purchased about five thousand acres of land in Walla Walla valley with the view of again engaging in the business on an extensive scale. By means of ditches he brought water into every field of this vast tract and soon developed a most excellent stock ranch. This land is still in possession of the family, being owned by the Lowden Company, which was incorporated for the purpose of raising horses, cattle, sheep and hogs. They have imported many costly thoroughbred animals, never sparing expense to secure the best stock, and they have done much to promote the standards of stock raising in Washington. They have high grade horses, cattle, hogs and sheep upon their place and theirs is one of the leading stock ranches in southeastern Washington. Mr. Lowden has ever been a very active and enterprising man, possessed of courage, fortitude and resourcefulness—the characteristics of the true pioneer. Moreover, he is a very efficient business man, alert and enterprising and watchful of every opportunity pointing to success. His interests have ever been most wisely and carefully controlled and his sound judgment has ever stood as an important feature in his progress.

MR. AND MRS. SIMON TAYLOR

Notwithstanding his large private interests, Mr. Lowden has always found time to perform well the duties of a citizen and member of society. He served as county commissioner for seven years and was a member of the state penitentiary board which built the third wing and the outbuildings, the stables, etc., of the penitentiary. In spite of opposition, he succeeded with the help of others in building a jute mill at the penitentiary in order to give employment to the prisoners and in placing the mill in successful operation. He was also a member of the school board for ten years and has ever been a faithful and loyal friend of public education.

In May, 1868, Mr. Lowden was joined in wedlock to Miss Mary E. Noon, who was born in New Orleans, Louisiana, but was reared in California. They have become the parents of three children, namely: Marshall J., Francis M., Jr., and Hettie Irene. Mr. Lowden is a stanch adherent of the Masonic fraternity and exemplifies in his life the beneficent spirit of the craft. He is still very active, although he has now reached the age of eighty-six years. Old age need not necessarily suggest idleness nor want of occupation. There is an old age which grows stronger mentally and morally as the years go on and gives out of its rich store of wisdom and experience for the benefit of others. Such is the record of Mr. Lowden. He keeps in touch with the trend of modern thought and progress and in spirit and interests seems yet in his prime. His life should serve to inspire and encourage many others who at a much younger age grow weary and endeavor to shift to other shoulders the burdens that they should bear.

J. A. MacLACHLAN, M. D.

Dr. J. A. MacLachlan, for many years actively and successfully engaged in the practice of medicine and surgery in Dayton, was born near Springfield, in the province of Ontario, Canada, in 1860. After acquiring a public school education in his native country he became a student in the University of Michigan, where he pursued his professional course, winning the degree of M. D. upon graduation with the class of 1889. He had studied the homeopathic methods and following his graduation at once began a search for a suitable location. Making his way westward, he decided to establish his home in Columbia county and has since been identified with the medical profession in southeastern Washington. Through the long years of his residence in Dayton he has occupied a foremost place among the medical practitioners. He is extremely modest and free from ostentation but public opinion establishes his position and colleagues and contemporaries acknowledge him the peer of the ablest physicians and surgeons of the Inland Empire. He was elected to the position of vice president of the state board of medical examiners and he belongs to the Washington State Medical Society, thus keeping in touch with the trend of modern professional thought, research and investigation.

Dr. MacLachlan was united in marriage to Miss Daisy Ping, a daughter of Robert Ping, one of the well known pioneer settlers of Columbia county, and with his family he occupies an attractive home in Dayton. He belongs to the Dayton Club and has been identified with many movements looking to the welfare and betterment of his community. He stands at all times for progress and improvement and his aid and influence are given on the side of those activities which are a matter of civic virtue and of civic pride. He served in 1890 and 1891 as health officer of Columbia county. He is well known as a leading member of the Knights of Pythias and of the Odd Fellows lodges, having been identified with those organizations for many years.

JOHN McFEELY.

John McFeely, of Walla Walla, has for years been one of the city's prominent business men, and he is also connected with the agricultural interests of the county, being the owner of a large farm devoted to the raising of wheat. He has resided in the city for many years and has an unusually wide acquaintance here and throughout the county as well. His birth occurred in Fairfield, Ohio, near Dayton, March 3, 1868, and he is a son of John and Ann (Miller) McFeely. He received his public school education in the Buckeye state and in youth learned the blacksmith trade. He then started west to seek his fortune, being convinced that there were better opportunities for advancement in the country west of the Mississippi river than in the east. For a time he lived in Kansas and then returned to Ohio, but could not be content there and removed to Portland, Oregon, whence he came to Walla Walla, Washington, in the spring of 1891. Here he found employment as a horseshoer, but in the fall of 1891 he went to Milton, Oregon, where he worked in the same line.

Subsequently Mr. McFeely returned to Walla Walla and bought an interest in the horseshoeing shop of D. Sloan, now known as the Wigwam, and then located at the corner of Second and Alder streets, where the Drumheller four-story brick block now stands. The horseshoeing business was booming and returned good profit to its owner. At length Mr. McFeely purchased the lots on the corner of Fourth and Alder streets, then known as the old Baldwin property, at that time covered with a growth of locust trees. He cleared the timber and there erected a shoeing shop, where he engaged in business for a considerable period. Later he built a one-story brick building which he used as a shoeing shop until he erected the McFeely Hotel, which is a three-story building with basement. It is thoroughly modern in its appointments and is well patronized. He also owns eight hundred acres of excellent wheat land in Dry Hollow, near Prescott, all under cultivation and well improved. He resides in one of the attractive homes at the edge of the city of Walla Walla, and takes a justifiable pride therein. The grounds comprise two acres and contain several cold water springs and a trout lake. The many large shade trees add much to the comfort and beauty of the place.

JOHN McFEELY

MRS. JOHN McFEELY

Mr. McFeely was married December 9, 1899, to Miss Martha Besserer, a daughter of the Hon. Charles and Ida (Sanderson) Besserer, who are mentioned on another page of this volume. To Mr. and Mrs. Besserer were born seven children, of whom three survive, namely: Charles, a resident of California; Lucile, the wife of A. McAlaster, also of California; and Mrs. McFeely. The latter is the mother of two children: Martha Yvonne, who was born August 5, 1903, and is now in high school; and John Miller, born September 9, 1907.

Mr. McFeely possesses the qualities that command respect and win regard, and he has been honored by election to the office of president of the National Association of Master Horseshoers. Fraternally he belongs to the Elks, and he and his wife both hold membership in the Protestant Episcopal church. He has been quick to recognize opportunities, prompt and energetic in taking advantage thereof, and as the result of his sound judgment and enterprise he is now financially independent.

C. A. HOLLENBECK.

C. A. Hollenbeck is now living retired in Asotin but for a long period was actively identified with ranching in Washington. In 1912, however, he put aside the work of the farm and has since spent his days in the enjoyment of a well earned rest. A native of New York, he was born in Cortland county, December 18, 1845, a son of Casper C. and Henrietta (Egbertson) Hollenbeck, who were also natives of Cortland county, New York. The great-grandfather in the Egbertson line was a soldier of the Revolutionary war and also of the War of 1812. He passed away in Cortland county, New York, at the advanced age of ninety years. The grandfather of C. A. Hollenbeck in the paternal line was a native of Holland, and on coming to the new world settled in Cortland county, New York, where he followed the occupation of farming until his death. His son, Casper C., was also a farmer and with his family removed westward to Sedalia, Missouri, where he and his wife lived retired. There he passed away in the spring of 1881.

C. A. Hollenbeck acquired a public school education in New York and assisted in the work of the farm from early boyhood, taking his place behind the plow almost as soon as old enough to reach the plow handles. He left home in 1868 and made his way to Linn county, Iowa, where he resided for two years, devoting his attention to general agricultural pursuits there. In 1870 he removed to Ness county, Kansas, where he hunted buffaloes and antelope while working with the Texas cattle. He devoted eleven years to herding on the plains of Kansas and in 1881 he arrived in Washington, taking up his abode in what was then Columbia but is now Asotin county. He took up a preemption claim in the Montgomery Ridge district and during his active identification with agricultural pursuits he accumulated thirteen hundred and sixty acres of land in Asotin county, of which he has since sold all but three hundred and twenty acres, now being cultivated and managed by his son. In 1912 Mr. Hollenbeck retired from active business life and took up his abode in the city of Asotin, where he now occupies an attractive modern residence and is living retired, enjoying the fruits of his former toil in a well earned rest.

Mr. Hollenbeck was united in marriage to Miss Mary A. Story, a native of Onondaga county, New York, who passed away November 1, 1917, her death being deeply regretted not only by her immediate family but also by many friends, for she was a lady of excellent traits of heart and mind, kindly in manner and generous in spirit and most devoted to the members of her own household. She found her greatest happiness in providing for the comfort of her husband and children and her memory is enshrined in the hearts of all who knew her.

"I cannot say and I will not say That she is dead. She is just away! With a cheery smile and a wave of the hand She has wandered into an unknown land, And left us dreaming how very fair It needs must be since she lingers there."

Seven children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Hollenbeck: Carrie, the wife of Henry Talbott, a rancher living in Asotin county; Martha, the wife of William McMullan, who has a ranch near Spokane; Ettie, the wife of Jake Blyen, who is a ranch owner at Crabtree, Oregon; Casper J., who married Rose Miller and follows ranching in Asotin county; Frank, who married Maggie Venette and lives in Asotin county, managing the old home ranch, in addition to which he owns nine hundred acres; George H., who married Ethel M. Cannon and resides in Canada; and Mary, the wife of H. L. McMillan, of Asotin county.

In politics Mr. Hollenbeck has been a republican from the days of Abraham Lincoln, whom he saw at Syracuse, New York, on his way to take the presidential chair in Washington in 1861. His has been an active and useful life in which his business affairs have been wisely directed, his efforts proving an element in the growth and progress of the section of the state in which he lives, and among its valued and representative citizens he is numbered.

JAMES P. WATSON.

Among the valued citizens of Garfield county who have been called to their final rest was numbered James P. Watson, who lived on section 33, township 13 north, range 43 east, and was closely associated with the agricultural development and improvement of this section of the state. He was born in England on the 31st of December, 1854, and was a son of Porter and Susan (Talbot) Watson, both of whom were natives of England, where they spent their entire lives. James P. Watson was educated in the public schools of his native country and in 1871, when a youth of seventeen years, bade adieu to friends and country in order to come to the United States. He first made his way to Kansas, where he remained for four years, and in 1875 he came west to the Pacific coast country. He did not at once make a final settlement, however, but cast around for a desirable location and in the meantime worked for wages, thus becoming a factor in the business life of the community.

JAMES P. WATSON

In 1877 Mr. Watson took up his abode in what is now Garfield county and the following spring filed on a homestead, which he continued to own throughout his remaining days and on which his widow still lives. He was a man of energy and was ambitious to succeed. Indolence and idleness were utterly foreign to his nature. Every hour was utilized to the best advantage and as the years passed he prospered, so that from time to time he was able to add to his homestead by additional purchase until prior to his death he had become the owner of about a thousand acres of valuable pasture and wheat land in Garfield county. Mr. Watson had come to this country as a youth without money and without friends, but he employed every moment of his time to good advantage, realizing the eternal principle that industry wins. He also carefully saved his earnings and invested the money thus gained wisely and well, so that in the course of years he acquired a snug little fortune. Moreover, he was a broad reader and deep thinker and became well informed on public affairs. When he crossed the Atlantic it was to become an American citizen, not to remain a subject of Great Britain, although he never lost his love for his native land. He ever felt that his allegiance should be given to the land of his adoption, under whose laws he lived and found protection, and he ever stood for those plans and measures which sought to upbuild the community in which he resided, to advance the welfare of the commonwealth and of the country.

In 1880 Mr. Watson was united in marriage to Miss Emma I. Perkins, a native of Oregon and a daughter of John N. Perkins, who was a physician and philanthropist. Her father was a native of Ohio and crossed the plains in 1851, settling in Oregon. In 1878 he came to what is now Garfield county, establishing his home on the present site of Pomeroy. His grandfather, Thomas Perkins, was a soldier of the Revolutionary war. The mother of Mrs. Watson bore the maiden name of Derisa A. Matsler and was a native of Ohio, where her marriage to Mr. Perkins occurred. She afterward made the journey across the plains with her husband to the northwest. She had three brothers—George, David and John, who served throughout the Civil war in defense of the Union. To Mr. and Mrs. Watson were born thirteen children, of whom two died in infancy, and Inez D., who married J. C. Kimble died leaving two sons, Vergel L. and Cecyl L. Those still living are as follows: Charles E., Alva N., Elsie I., James A., William C., Edna E., John P., Joseph F., Iva N. and Alma M. Most of the children are married and with their families they are all residing in Garfield county, with the exception of James A., who is now a resident of Whitman county. Mrs. Watson now has seventeen grandchildren. She is a woman of pronounced ability who has capably managed her property interests since the death of her husband, which occurred on the 5th of September, 1915.

Mr. Watson was a man of sterling character, was a devoted husband and kind and loving father. He was also an obliging and charitable neighbor and his many sterling traits of character gained for him the esteem and confidence of all with whom he came in contact. In politics he was a democrat until the free silver plank was inserted in the party platform, after which he became a supporter of republican principles. He never failed to earnestly espouse any cause in which he believed and his position was never an equivocal one. He expressed his opinions honestly and fearlessly and men came to know that his word was thoroughly reliable. He never had occasion to regret his determination to come to the new world, for on this side of the Atlantic he found the opportunities which he sought and in their utilization won a substantial measure of success. Moreover, America gained a valued citizen and southeastern Washington profited much by his efforts.

JOHN M. ROBINSON.

Among the representative business men of Garfield county is John M. Robinson, a well known farmer and grain dealer of Pomeroy. He comes from the middle west, being born in Missouri, September 6, 1859, and is a son of Thomas W. and Pauline (Forshey) Robinson, the former also a native of Missouri and the latter of Ohio. It was in 1874 that the family came to the Pacific coast and after spending three years and a half in California became residents of Walla Walla county, Washington, in 1877. About a year later the father took up a homestead in what was then Columbia county but is now Garfield county, locating on a farm fifteen miles southeast of Pomeroy. There the mother passed away in 1878 and he died in Pomeroy in February, 1892. Of their nine children four have also departed this life.

John M. Robinson was fifteen years of age when the family located in California and in the schools of that state he began his education, continuing his studies in Walla Walla county after their removal to this state. He remained under the parental roof until twenty-two years of age and then in 1881 took up a preemption claim, which is now within the city limits of Pomeroy and he still owns eighty acres of that. He engaged in farming until 1885, at which time he took twenty head of work horses to California and spent one year in that state. He then returned to Washington and purchased another farm, living thereon until 1892. Since then he has made his home in Pomeroy, where he bought a warehouse and has engaged in buying grain. He is now the owner of four thousand and ninety-five acres of land, all improved and under cultivation.

Mr. Robinson was married in 1881 to Miss Melinda F. McKey, a native of Kansas and a daughter of Rev. W. P. and Jane (Wilkinson) McKey, and to this union have been born seven children, namely: Walter J.; Josie May, now the wife of D. A. Taylor; Clare Marie, the wife of P. C. Clark of Walla Walla; Dora Bell, the wife of G. Z. Ickes, Jr.; Ruth, the wife of J. D. Lyon, Jr.; Vernon H. and Florestine, at home.

JOHN M. ROBINSON AND FAMILY

Mr. and Mrs. Robinson are active and consistent members of the Christian church of Pomeroy and he is serving as one of its elders. He is also prominently identified with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, having filled all of the chairs in Pomeroy Lodge, No. 16. In business affairs he has steadily prospered until he is now the possessor of a handsome fortune and the success that has come to him is but the just reward of his own industry, fair dealing and good management, for he is a man of good business and executive ability and sound judgment.

RICHARD D. ROBERTS.

More than a century ago Washington said that agriculture is the most useful as well as the most honorable occupation of man, while Thomas Jefferson said, "The hope of the nation lies in the tillers of the soil." It is a well known fact that agriculture is the basis of all advancement and prosperity and no country reaches the highest point of its attainment if its farm lands are not properly and carefully cultivated. Among those progressive men who are now concentrating their efforts and attention upon the further development of the soil in Walla Walla county is Richard D. Roberts, who has extensive farming interests on section 13, township 9 north, range 37 east. He was born upon this farm January 6, 1875, and is a son of David and Jane (Anderson) Roberts. The father was a native of Wales and came to the United States in young manhood. He made his way westward to Illinois, where he took up his abode and there he formed the acquaintance of Jane Anderson, who was a native of that state. They were married and about 1870 they left Illinois for Oregon. After spending one year in Forest Grove of the latter state they came north to Washington and for a year were residents of Waitsburg. At the end of that time David Roberts purchased one hundred and sixty acres of the home farm upon which his son Richard now resides. Not long afterward he preempted an eighty-acre tract adjoining the original purchase and then bought another eighty acres, continuing to give his time, attention and energy to his farming interests until his death, which occurred in December, 1898. For several years he had survived his wife, who passed away in 1892.

At the usual age Richard D. Roberts became a pupil in the district schools and there mastered the elementary branches of learning. He afterward attended the public schools of Waitsburg and also spent one term as a student in the Waitsburg Academy. In the spring of 1898, prior to his father's death, he took over the management and development of the home farm, which he has since operated. He owns a five-sevenths interest in the home place, together with a half interest in another farm of five hundred and twenty acres in Columbia county. He also has two hundred and forty acres in the Imperial valley of California. He cultivates the home place of three hundred and thirty-five acres, the Columbia county farm of five hundred and twenty acres, of which he owns a half interest, and he leases five hundred and eighty acres, thus farming in all fourteen hundred and thirty-five acres of land in the Inland Empire. His extensive operations are most carefully and wisely conducted. Scientific methods underlie his work. He early realized the fact that farm interests should be as carefully systematized as a commercial undertaking and in all of his work he is methodical and progressive. His farm machinery is of the latest improved kind and there is no accessory of a model farm property of the twentieth century that is not to be found upon his place.

In 1900 Mr. Roberts was united in marriage to Miss Myrtle Bateman, a daughter of Henry Bateman, who was one of the earliest of Walla Walla county's pioneers, first coming here in 1849 and the following year settling on a claim on Coppei creek. He was an Indian war veteran and one of the conspicuous figures in the early pioneer life of Walla Walla county. His demise occurred in Waitsburg in December, 1915. Mr. and Mrs. Roberts now have two sons, Harold and Henry.

In politics Mr. Roberts maintains an independent course, not caring to bind himself by party ties. He belongs to Waitsburg Lodge, F. & A. M.; to Touchet Lodge, No. 5, I. O. O. F.; and to the Ancient Order of United Workmen; and his wife holds membership in the Methodist church. Their lives are guided by high and honorable principles and in all business affairs Mr. Roberts is regarded as thoroughly reliable as well as energetic. His life record is as an open book. He has always lived in this section of the state, has always carried on general agricultural pursuits, and although there are no spectacular phases in his career, he has ever been regarded as a substantial and valued citizen because of his loyalty to the best interests of the community and his cooperation in plans and measures which are calculated to advance and uphold civic standards.

JAMES H. BOWLES.

The consensus of public opinion names James H. Bowles among the leading citizens of Walla Walla county. He is the owner of a valuable farming property and also of a fine residence in Prescott, where he makes his home. He was born in Warren county, Missouri, November 11, 1854, and is a son of Thomas H. and Lucinda (Gibson) Bowles, the former a native of Virginia, while the latter was born in Missouri. They became the parents of eight children, six of whom survive, but both the father and mother died in Missouri.

James H. Bowles was reared and educated in the state of his nativity and had reached the age of thirty-five years when in the spring of 1889 he came to Walla Walla county, Washington. He established his home in Prescott and later he bought a farm of one hundred and eighty acres, which he has carefully and persistently cultivated, bringing the entire place under a high state of development. Upon the farm are excellent improvements and everything about the place indicates the careful supervision of a practical and progressive owner. He makes his home, however, in Prescott, where he owns an attractive residence. His business affairs have been carefully managed and his thorough reliability has gained for him the respect and confidence of all, while unfaltering energy has furthered his prosperity.

On the 14th of November, 1880, Mr. Bowles was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth Reavis, a native of Missouri and a daughter of Woodson Reavis. They have become the parents of the following children: Thomas Woodson, who died at the age of seven months; Mary Almeda, the wife of J. T. Janes, who is living near Prescott; James William, residing near Prescott, who married Lillian N. Coble and has one child, James Eugene; Sarah Ann, who is the wife of F. E. Grubb, also living near Prescott, and they have two children, Ora Vale and James Roy; Virginia Frances, who is the wife of Vergil N. Harris, of Prescott, and has two children, Genevra Elizabeth and Virginia Ann; one child who died at the age of nine months; Pearl Margaret, who is the wife of C. L. Jones, living near Prescott, and they have five children, William Lawrence, Dale Walter, Ernest Monroe, Alma Elizabeth and James Dewey; Archie Eugene, who married Elizabeth Helms and resides in Prescott; Walter Jennings, who married Fay Hazel Nail; and Elizabeth.

JAMES H. BOWLES

MRS. JAMES H. BOWLES

Both Mr. and Mrs. Bowles are faithful members of the Christian church and take an active interest in its work, while contributing generously to its support. In politics Mr. Bowles is a democrat and has been called upon to fill public office. He has served as a member of the city council of Prescott; has also been a member of the school board; and was deputy assessor for two years. Fraternally he is connected with the Woodmen of the World. He has never had occasion to regret his determination to establish his home in the northwest, for here he found the opportunities which he sought and in the business conditions of this section of the country he has so directed his efforts that a most substantial competence has been acquired.

BERT LOGAN JONES, B. S., M. D., C. M.

The alumni of McGill University are found in all sections of the American continent. The thorough training of that school well qualifies its students for the various lines of work which they may undertake and in the main the graduates of that institution have been most successful. Dr. Bert Logan Jones is among the number who are actively engaged in the practice of medicine and surgery in Walla Walla. Pennsylvania numbers him among her native sons, his birth having occurred in Allegheny on the 11th of May, 1882, his parents being Reuben Reynolds and Maggie Elizabeth Jones. With the removal of the family to the west he became a pupil in the public schools and was graduated from the Baker school in 1898. He then continued his education in the Washington State College and won the Bachelor of Science degree in 1907. He afterward entered McGill University as a medical student and was graduated from the Montreal institution with the degree of M. D., C. M. He has since practiced his profession in Walla Walla and in 1914 he was appointed surgeon in the state penitentiary. In general practice he has made for himself a creditable position. He is thoroughly conversant with the latest discoveries and scientific researches that have to bear upon medical and surgical practice, is most careful in the diagnosis of his cases and seldom if ever at fault in matters of judgment regarding the outcome of disease. Moreover, he holds to the highest professional standards and his course has been an expression of the most advanced ethics of the profession.

On the 25th of December, 1916, in Pullman, Washington, Dr. Jones was united in marriage to Miss Jessie Elliott Hays, a daughter of the Rev. W. G. M. Hays, D. D. Dr. Hays was the founder of the United Presbyterian church and the academy at Waitsburg, Washington, in 1886 and was the organizer of the United Presbyterian church at Olympia in 1895. He also founded the United Presbyterian church at Pullman, Washington, in 1898 and remained as pastor there for eighteen years. He has thus had much to do with the moral progress and development of this section and in his labors has not been denied the full harvest nor the aftermath of his efforts. Mrs. Jones was graduated from the Washington State College in 1906, from the State Normal School at Cheney, Washington, in 1912, and from 1906 until 1916 taught in the graded and high schools of this state.

Dr. and Mrs. Jones hold membership in the First Presbyterian church of Walla Walla and he belongs to the Walla Walla Commercial Club and to the Masonic fraternity, associations which indicate much of the nature of his interests and the rules which govern his conduct. He is a man of genuine personal worth, esteemed by all who know him and most of all where he is best known. While he holds to high professional standards and gives the greater part of his attention to his profession, he also recognizes and meets the duties and obligations of citizenship and in many ways has cooperated in bringing about public welfare and improvement.

JOHN P. KENT.

While for many years Mr. Kent was one of the best known and most prominent business men of Walla Walla, he always found time to cooperate in public interests and the waterworks and the park systems of the city were largely due to his initiative and to his untiring effort. His determined purpose and indefatigable energy enabled him to accomplish whatever he undertook and his worth in matters of citizenship as well as in business circles was widely acknowledged.

Mr. Kent was born in Boston, Massachusetts, June 29, 1858, and when about fifteen years of age removed to the Sunset state, arriving in Walla Walla, where for forty-four years he occupied a prominent position in connection with the commercial activity of the community. In 1880 he became engaged in the meat business and later was associated with William Kirkman, Chris Ennis and A. Beard in organizing the Walla Walla Meat Company. He retained the active management of the business until November, 1898, when he retired from that field in order to turn his attention to insurance. From that time forward until his demise he maintained an insurance office in the Dooly building and gained a very prominent position in insurance circles. Mr. Kent was one of the organizers of the firm of Gardner & Company and served as its second vice president until his death. He did with thoroughness everything that he undertook and therefore he mastered every phase of the insurance business.

On the 12th of November, 1890, Mr. Kent was united in marriage to Miss Delia A. Lyons, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. P. Lyons, and to them were born four children: Ruth, the wife of Harry Paxton, Jr.; John Paul, Mildred Agnes and Omer James, all of whom are living in Walla Walla.

Besides his activity in business circles Mr. Kent took a prominent part in politics and in lodge, social and church affairs. He was a member of the city council for two terms, beginning in 1896, and he was a most aggressive advocate of the rights of the people. It was through his instrumentality that Walla Walla secured its waterworks. He was also particularly interested in public park development and did much toward securing Walla Walla's present chain of city parks. He served as a member of the first park board and lost no opportunity to further the interests which he espoused, making the park system one which is most attractive and creditable. He was one of the most trusted leaders of the democratic party in the state of Washington and served as a delegate to nearly every state and county convention of his party.

JOHN P. KENT

In religious faith Mr. Kent was an earnest and loyal Catholic and was twice representative of the state of Washington in the supreme council of the Catholic Knights of America. He was also an earnest and effective worker in behalf of the United Relief Society and was filling the office of vice president at the time of his demise. For many years he was a director of the Walla Walla County Fair Association and in that connection did much to further public progress. He was also a trustee of the local lodge of Elks and was a past grand knight of the Knights of Columbus in Walla Walla. Death called him on the 8th of May, 1917, when he passed away at his home on Poplar street. He had been in failing health for about a year but was confined to his home for only the last week. One who knew him well paid to him the following justly merited tribute:

"In the death of John P. Kent, Walla Walla has lost one of her best citizens. He was always active in every progressive enterprise and a factor in everything that had for its object the benefit of his home city. He was eloquent of speech, which, combined with his recognized probity and force of character, gave him great influence in the council of his fellows. He was no trimmer but expressed his opinions on all questions openly and frankly and even those who disagreed with him acknowledged and admitted his sincerity of purpose. He was one of the kindest of husbands, the most loving of fathers and a true and loyal friend."

GEORGE F. MOTTET.

George F. Mottet is a retired stock man of Walla Walla who at the age of twenty-seven years came to the new world and established his home in this section of the state. Throughout the intervening period he has been connected with the sheep industry but has now largely put aside the active cares of business life to enjoy in well earned rest the fruits of his former toil. He was born in France, February 17, 1859, and is a son of Francis and Virginia Mottet, who were also natives of France, where they spent their entire lives. They had a family of seven children, but George F. is the only one now living. He was reared and educated in France, enjoying liberal opportunities. He completed a high school course and afterward served for four years in the French army. He then determined to try his fortune in the new world and in 1886 he came to America, making his way at once to Walla Walla. He has since been identified with the interests of the northwest. He was engaged in the sheep industry for twenty-four years and his affairs were wisely and successfully managed, so that he derived therefrom a handsome competence. After almost a quarter of a century he sold out and retired from active business life, making his home at the present time at No. 440 Chase avenue in Walla Walla, where he occupies a fine residence.

In 1895 Mr. Mottet was united in marriage to Miss Leonie Vincent, a native of France, and they have become parents of three children: George, who died at the age of eleven years; Anna, who is a high school graduate of Walla Walla; and one who died in infancy.

In his political views Mr. Mottet has always been a stanch republican since becoming a naturalized American citizen but has never been an aspirant for office. He and his wife belong to the Catholic church. He is a self-made man—one who deserves much credit for what he has accomplished. He has never had occasion to regret his determination to come to the new world, for here he found the opportunities which he sought and in their improvement has acquired a handsome fortune. In addition to the home which he occupies in Walla Walla he has seven other residence properties there, from which he derives a gratifying annual income. His business interests have been carefully managed, his methods have been characterized by the utmost integrity and the results which have accrued are most satisfactory and creditable.

JOSEPH UTTER.

Joseph Utter, residing in Prescott, is identified with several important business enterprises of the town and is also actively and successfully engaged in farming in Walla Walla county. He was born in the state of New York, February 22, 1855, a son of Alex M. and Alida (Putman) Utter, both of whom were natives of the Empire state. They removed to Wisconsin in 1859 and there resided until 1861, when they became residents of Minnesota, establishing their home upon a farm. In 1862 the father enlisted for service in the Civil war, his patriotic spirit prompting his ready response to the country's call for aid. He joined Company G of the Third Minnesota Infantry and served until the close of the hostilities, after which he returned to Minnesota, where both he and his wife passed away. In their family were nine children, eight of whom are yet living.

Joseph Utter was reared and educated in Minnesota and in 1882 arrived in Walla Walla county, Washington, taking up his abode on a farm near Prescott which he still owns. His place comprises eight hundred and five acres of rich and productive land, all of which is improved. It is largely devoted to the cultivation of wheat, for his farm is situated in the midst of the rich wheat belt of Washington, famous throughout the entire country. The methods which he employs in his farm work are productive of excellent results. In addition to the growing of wheat he is also engaged in stock raising and both branches of his business are proving profitable. He is likewise a stockholder and manager of the Prescott Warehouse Company and is the president of the Prescott Telephone Company. In all business affairs he displays keen discernment and unfaltering industry and his carefully directed labors are bringing to him substantial returns.

JOSEPH UTTER

In 1878 Mr. Utter was united in marriage to Miss Carrie Pettijohn, a daughter of Thomas and Charity (Wisby) Pettijohn, both of whom were natives of Ohio but spent their last years in Minnesota. Mr. and Mrs. Utter became the parents of eleven children: Arabelle, who is the wife of W. H. James, now of California; Thomas H., who is living on the home farm; Carrie May, the wife of A. W. Reser; Richard, who is married and follows farming; Mildred, the wife of Henry Goe; Juliette, the wife of John Reid; Ralph, who is married and resides in Prescott; Lilian and Walter Wayne, who are living at home and two have passed away. The wife and mother died in July, 1916, and was laid to rest in the Odd Fellows cemetery. She was a consistent member of the Congregational church and was most devoted to the welfare of her family. Her loss was also deeply regretted by her many friends.

Mr. Utter holds membership in Prescott Lodge, No. 46, I. O. O. F., in which he has filled all of the chairs, and he also belongs to the Woodmen of the World. In politics he is a republican but not an office seeker. He has through individual effort and determination become one of the prosperous farmers of Walla Walla county and one of its representative business men. His worth is widely acknowledged by all with whom he has come in contact and his business career is characterized by a forcefulness and resourcefulness that is most resultant.

DAVID W. MILLER.

David W. Miller, one of the representative and prosperous agriculturists of Walla Walla county, within the borders of which he has spent almost his entire life, makes his home in the city of Walla Walla. He owns six hundred and twenty acres of productive land in Spring Valley and operates altogether about fifteen hundred acres. His birth occurred in Wyoming on the 22d of August, 1874, his parents being David and Isabelle (King) Miller, who were born, reared and married in Scotland. About 1870 they crossed the Atlantic to the new world and in subsequent years resided in Pennsylvania, Utah and other states but eventually came to Washington and about 1877 took up their abode in Walla Walla county. Here David Miller gave his attention to general agricultural pursuits, locating in Spring Valley, where he acquired a section of land and in his undertakings won gratifying prosperity. He was chosen to represent his district in the state senate for eight years, being first elected in 1893 and making a splendid record that gained the approval and continued support of his constituents. He was one of the dominant factors in the organization of the Farmers Alliance and was always foremost in any movement instituted to promote the interests and welfare of the community. Fraternally he was identified with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. His demise, which occurred on the 6th of October, 1902, was the occasion of deep and widespread regret, for in his passing the community lost one of its most valued and esteemed citizens. His widow, surviving him for a number of years, was called to her final rest in November, 1911.

David W. Miller, whose name introduces this review, was reared under the parental roof and in the acquirement of an education attended the district schools and also spent one year in study in Whitman College. He then devoted about six years to farming and on the expiration of that period embarked in the furniture and undertaking business at Waitsburg, conducting an enterprise of that character for two years. At the end of that time he engaged in the coal and wood business at Walla Walla, being thus occupied until 1910, when he again turned his attention to agricultural pursuits, which have since claimed his time and energies. He owns six hundred and twenty acres of valuable land in Spring Valley and operates altogether about fifteen hundred acres, his interests being thus extensive and important. Success has attended his efforts in this connection by reason of the fact that he utilizes the most modern and progressive methods of agriculture and has ever manifested industry, enterprise and unremitting energy.

On the 12th of August, 1903, Mr. Miller was united in marriage to Miss Ida Breeze, a daughter of R. M. Breeze, of Waitsburg. They now have three children, namely: James T., Earl W. and Ella Isabelle. In his political views Mr. Miller is a democrat and fraternally he is identified with Trinity Lodge, I. O. O. F., and with Columbia Lodge No. 70, K. P. His life has been upright and honorable in every relation and he well merits the warm regard and high esteem in which he is uniformly held.

SILAS W. SMITH.

For almost sixty years Silas W. Smith made his home upon the Pacific coast and was long identified with its mercantile interests, conducting a store in Walla Walla during the last years of his business career. He was born in Monmouth, Illinois, August 16, 1844, a son of Isaac and Margaret (Butler) Smith, who were also natives of that state. In 1853 the family crossed the plains and located on a farm near Dallas, Oregon. They traveled in covered wagons drawn by horses and experienced the usual hardships of such a journey. Upon a claim of three hundred and twenty acres the father built the first log cabin in that locality and he became one of the prominent and influential men of the valley where he and his wife continued to make their home until called to their final rest. He always took a very active part in politics and for two terms was an honored member of the legislature. In his family were nine children, only four of whom are now living.

Silas W. Smith was about nine years of age when he came with the family to the far west and he was reared and educated at Dallas, Oregon, graduating from the academy at that place. After leaving school he was engaged in mercantile business at Independence, Oregon, for several years, but in 1888 removed to Waitsburg, Washington, where he conducted a store for some time, and later engaged in the same business in Walla Walla in partnership with John Fitzgerald. He finally sold out and lived retired until his death in 1912.

On the 5th of November, 1867, Mr. Smith was united in marriage to Miss Esther M. Barney, a native of Keokuk, Iowa, and a daughter of Harlow and Mary A. (Curtis) Barney. Her father was born in Pennsylvania and her mother in Vermont. They were among the pioneers who crossed the plains with ox teams in 1853 and settled near Dallas, Oregon, where Mr. Barney took up six hundred and forty acres of land, making his home thereon until his death. His wife also died there. Two of their three children are still living. To Mr. and Mrs. Smith were born five children, namely: Mary Ellen, the deceased wife of W. W. Maxwell; E. H., also deceased; O. B., a resident of Waitsburg, Washington; Lenna, the wife of Laverne Bartlett of Walla Walla; and Milan W., a merchant of Waitsburg.

SILAS W. SMITH

MRS. SILAS W. SMITH

Mrs. Smith owns a valuable ranch of five hundred and forty acres, all in a high state of cultivation. She is a faithful member of the Christian church, to which her husband also belonged, and he took quite an active part in all church work. He also held membership in the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and was a stanch republican in politics, exerting considerable influence in local affairs and serving for two terms as mayor of the city with credit to himself and to the entire satisfaction of his constituents. In his death the community realized that it had lost a valued and useful citizen—one devoted to the best interests of the community. Mrs. Smith is a member of the Rebekah Lodge at Waitsburg and has filled all the chairs in the same. Like her husband, she makes friends wherever she goes and is held in the highest esteem by all who know her.

F. J. ALDRICH.

F. J. Aldrich is a representative farmer of Columbia county who utilizes the most progressive methods in tilling the soil and caring for his crops. Western enterprise finds expression in his life. He is a western man by birth, by training and by preference. He was born in Walla Walla county, Washington, July 1, 1872, and is a son of Milton and Sarah (Stanfield) Aldrich, the former a native of Michigan, while the latter was born in Iowa. In 1850 the father crossed the plains to California, where he engaged in prospecting and mining, continuing his operations from California clear into Canada. In 1860 he made his way to Walla Walla county, Washington, where he took up a homestead on Dry creek, seven miles east of the city of Walla Walla. Later he acquired other lands until he became owner of eight hundred and fifteen acres in the home place and nine hundred and twenty acres on Coppei creek, five miles from Waitsburg. He devoted many years to the development and improvement of his farm land and about five years prior to his death removed to Walla Walla, where he passed away about 1912. His widow is still living and yet occupies the home ranch. Mr. Aldrich was a republican in his political views and was twice elected county commissioner of Walla Walla county. He took an active and helpful interest in community affairs and was actuated by a public-spirited devotion to duty. His wife is a member of the Methodist church and a lady of many admirable qualities which have gained for her the high esteem and goodwill of all with whom she has been brought in contact.

F. J. Aldrich was reared upon the home farm and acquired his education in the common schools and in Whitman College, where he won his academic degree, although he lacked three months of graduation. On attaining his twenty-first year he began farming for himself and has since been prominently identified with agricultural interests in Walla Walla and Columbia counties. In 1902 he removed to his present farm in Columbia county, where he owns one thousand acres of land and in addition to that tract he also operates another thousand acres under lease. He is thus one of the extensive farmers of his section of the state, his great, broad fields annually producing excellent harvests, while the methods that he employs are of the most progressive character. In fact his farm work is an indication of the last word in modern scientific agriculture.

In 1895 Mr. Aldrich was united in marriage to Miss Angeline Lloyd, a daughter of Albert G. Lloyd, now deceased, of whom extended mention is made elsewhere in this work. Mr. and Mrs. Aldrich have become parents of two children, Elmo and Erick.

In his political views Mr. Aldrich is a stalwart republican, always supporting the party at the polls yet never seeking office as a reward for party fealty. He belongs to Waitsburg Lodge, No. 16, F. & A. M., and also to Walla Walla Lodge, No. 287, B. P. O. E. He ranks with the foremost citizens of Columbia county and is honored and respected by all, not alone by reason of the success which he has achieved but also owing to the straightforward business methods which he has ever followed. He has never been known to take advantage of the necessities of another in any business transaction and through legitimate channels has won his prosperity.

WALLACE R. COPELAND.

Wallace R. Copeland, residing in Walla Walla, is actively identified with the agricultural development of this section of the state. He is a western man by birth, training and preference and in his life exemplifies the spirit of enterprise which has ever been the dominant factor in the upbuilding of this section of the country. He was born in Yamhill county, Oregon, March 26, 1860, a son of Henry S. and Mary Ann (Morton) Copeland, who are mentioned elsewhere in this work. He was but two years of age when his parents removed from Yamhill county to Walla Walla county, Washington, and here he was reared to manhood upon the old homestead farm, early becoming familiar with the best methods of tilling the soil and caring for the crops. In 1882 his parents left the farm and removed to Walla Walla, where both died.

Wallace R. Copeland pursued his education in the district schools and began his studies in one of the old-time log schoolhouses with a puncheon floor, slab benches and sod roof. The methods of instruction were also somewhat primitive, but he has lived to see marked development in the educational system of the state until Washington stands foremost in many respects in regard to its public school work. He remained at home through the period of his youth and continued to assist his father in the farm work until he reached the age of twenty-two years. He then started out independently as a farmer and as time has passed on has made for himself a most creditable and enviable position among the leading agriculturists of the state. He at first rented land from his father, cultivating four hundred and fifteen acres on the Cottonwood creek. This was in 1882. For ten years he farmed that place successfully as a renter and during the financial panic of 1892-3 he bought the farm of his father and has since extended his farming interests by the purchase of one hundred and seventy acres, so that he has in all five hundred and eighty-five acres. This is very valuable wheat land and upon it are produced some of the finest wheat crops that are grown in this section of the state. About 1911 he purchased five hundred and eighty-four acres of wheat land on Mill creek, for which he paid one hundred dollars per acre. He also owns a section of grazing land in the foothills. In the year 1916 he planted five hundred and sixty acres to wheat and there was an excellent yield. He is most progressive in his methods and has closely studied every phase of wheat cultivation, so that sound judgment directs his efforts and produces splendid results.

WALLACE R. COPELAND

On the 9th of March, 1884, Mr. Copeland was united in marriage to Miss Augusta Kaseberg, of Walla Walla, a daughter of John and Henrietta Kaseberg, natives of Germany, who came to this country when children and were married here. For a time they made their home in Illinois, but in 1882 came west and settled in Walla Walla county, Washington. By trade the father was a wagon maker but his last years were devoted to farming. He died in 1905 and the mother passed away about three years later. In their family were eight children, of whom six are still living. To Mr. and Mrs. Copeland have been born five children: Henry, who is engaged in farming in Walla Walla county; Laura, the wife of Chester Offner, of Walla Walla; Elizabeth, the wife of Mathew Ennis, a farmer of this county; Ella, at home; and Edwin, who attended school at Pullman and later engaged in farming in Walla Walla county, but in December, 1917, he enlisted as machinist mate in the aviation service of the United States navy and went to San Diego, California.

Mrs. Copeland is an active member of the Presbyterian church and its auxiliary societies and is also an earnest worker in the Red Cross service. In his political views Mr. Copeland is a republican and gives stalwart support to the party, but is not an office seeker. He belongs to the Farmers Union of Walla Walla and there is no resident of this section of the state who is more able to speak with authority upon agricultural questions, especially those relating to the cultivation of wheat. His career has been notably successful. He had no assistance at the outset but has steadily worked his way upward and his persistent energy has brought him to a most enviable position. He has extensive holdings and his labors have been the foundation of his present prosperity.

J. R. AULT.

J. R. Ault, residing on section 26, township 11 north, range 37 east, is well known as one of the leading farmers and representative citizens of Columbia county. His birth occurred in Cornwall, Ontario, Canada, on the 7th of May, 1884, his parents being John N. and Rebecca (Kinnear) Ault, who were born, reared and married in that province. The father was for a number of years engaged in wool buying at Cornwall, where he is now living retired. The mother, however, is deceased, having been called to her final rest in 1898.

J. R. Ault was reared under the parental roof and acquired his education in the city schools of Cornwall. In 1904, when a young man of twenty years, he came to the state of Washington and took up his abode in the vicinity of his present home, here beginning farming as a renter. In 1909 he came into possession of his first property, purchasing one hundred and sixty acres of land in association with his brother, S. C. Ault, in partnership with whom he operated the place until the fall of 1916, since which time he has carried on his agricultural interests independently. He now owns three hundred and sixty acres of land and leases one hundred and sixty more, and in the conduct of his farming operations he has won a well deserved and gratifying measure of success by reason of his enterprise, close application and progressiveness.

In the exercise of his right of franchise Mr. Ault supports the men and measures of the democratic party and fraternally he is a prominent Mason, belonging to Tucanon Lodge, No. 106, F. & A. M., of Starbuck; Dayton Chapter, No. 5, R. A. M.; Washington Commandery, No. 5, K. T., of Walla Walla; and El Katif Temple, A. A. O. N. M. S., of Spokane. He has already won a most creditable position as an agriculturist of Columbia county, and all with whom he comes in contact recognize him as a young man of sterling personal worth and many commendable qualities.

JAMES P. SEITZ.

James P. Seitz, who from the age of sixteen years has been a resident of Walla Walla county, is now actively engaged in farming, his land being situated on section 9, township 6 north, range 36 east. He is a progressive man, alert and energetic, and his well defined plans have been carried forward to successful completion. He was born in Missouri, April 13, 1870, and is a son of John P. and Lydia J. (Chambers) Seitz, whose family numbered eight children, five of whom are yet living. The father was a native of Germany and when a young boy came to America, the family home being established in Illinois, and for a time they also lived in Indiana. Subsequently a removal was made to Missouri and there John P. Seitz met and married Miss Chambers, who was a native of Ohio and was of English descent. For twenty-five years he continued his residence in Missouri and in 1886 came to the northwest with Walla Walla county as his destination. After reaching this section of the country he invested in farm land, which his son James now owns. Here he continued to devote his time and energies to general agricultural pursuits until his life's labors were ended in death in 1911. His wife had passed away in 1910. In early life Mr. Seitz had learned the trades of millwright and blacksmith, possessing much natural mechanical skill and ability. He was a soldier of the Civil war, responding to the call of his adopted country for aid to crush out the rebellion in the south, and upon the field of battle he proved his loyalty to his adopted land. He was also greatly interested in the cause of education and insisted that English should be more thoroughly taught in our schools even if it was necessary to exclude foreign languages.

JAMES P. SEITZ

MRS. JAMES P. SEITZ

James P. Seitz spent the first fifteen years of his life in the state of his nativity and then came with his parents to Washington. He supplemented his public school training by a high school education and also attended Whitman College. He thus became well qualified for life's practical and responsible duties. He was reared to farm work and has never sought to change his occupation, for he finds farming congenial and has made it profitable as a result of his indefatigable energy and close application. He first rented the old homestead and later he purchased the property, which is situated on sections 9 and 10, township 6 north, range 36 east. His farm comprises three hundred and twenty acres in the valley between the foothills and constitutes a desirable, beautiful and valuable property, for it has been highly improved. In fact it is one of the finest farms in this section of the state. Substantial buildings furnish ample shelter for grain and stock. Mr. Seitz has erected a large, modern, circular barn, for which he made the plans, and he also did much of the work of construction himself. He even cut and sawed the timber and in this and other ways did much toward completing the structure. He has also erected other buildings upon his farm, including one containing the large engine which is the motive power for his machinery, drill forge, electric dynamo, etc. His residence is as complete and modern as a city home and is a monument to the enterprise and progressive spirit of the owner. Everything about his place is kept in good repair and fences divide the farm into fields of convenient size, so that the work is carried on more advantageously. He utilizes the latest improved machinery to facilitate the work of plowing, planting and harvesting, and in wheat production he displays the most progressive methods in handling the crop, which is a very large one, as the soil is excellently adapted for the production of that cereal. He is also successfully engaged in stock raising. He is a man of pronounced business ability in his chosen line of endeavor and is constantly seeking out new methods which will promote his interests and augment the productiveness and the general value of his farm.

On the 8th of April, 1903, Mr. Seitz was united in marriage to Miss Adina Chambers, a native of Washington and a daughter of Joseph and Mollie (Bulen) Chambers, the former a native of Missouri, while the latter was born in Dayton, Washington. They had a family of two children, Mrs. Seitz and Richard Chambers, who is now a soldier in the United States army. To Mr. and Mrs. Seitz have been born seven children: Lydia V., Helen, John P., May, Ina, Ara and Earl.

Mr. and Mrs. Seitz attend the Presbyterian church and are people of genuine worth, enjoying the confidence and goodwill of all with whom they have been associated. Mr. Seitz belongs to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, his membership being in Lodge No. 121. In politics he maintains an independent course, voting for the candidate whom he regards as best qualified for the office without considering party ties. He is actuated by a patriotic desire to stand for all that tends to promote the best interests of the community and of the commonwealth and his cooperation can always be counted upon to further various movements and measures for the public good.

SMITH F. HENDERSON.

Smith F. Henderson, a prominent brick and cement contractor of Walla Walla, was born in Pennsylvania, January 28, 1849, a son of R. S. and Margaret (Keys) Henderson, who were born in the Keystone state, of Irish descent. Both passed away in Pennsylvania and three of their ten children are also deceased.

Smith F. Henderson spent the days of his boyhood and youth under the parental roof and received the usual educational advantages, attending the public schools. In 1875, in early manhood, he went to California but three years later came to Walla Walla, where he has since remained. He has always followed the brick and cement contracting business and his thorough knowledge of the principles of construction in those materials and his scrupulous fulfillment of every detail of his contracts have enabled him to build up a large patronage. He has erected many of the better buildings in the city and ranks as one of its leading contractors. He holds title to an excellent building, from the rental of which he derives a gratifying profit.

Mr. Henderson was married in 1880 to Miss Katherine Root, who was born in Tennessee, but who has resided in Walla Walla since the early '60s. To them have been born four children, of whom three have passed away, one son, Arthur G., surviving.

Mr. Henderson gives his political allegiance to the republican party and his religious faith is that of the Methodist church, to which his wife also belongs, and of which he has served as chairman of the board of trustees. Fraternally he is connected with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows in which local lodge he has filled all the chairs, and with the Ancient Order of United Workmen. His integrity, his public spirit and his business ability are generally recognized and his personal friends are many.

O. M. RICHMOND.

O. M. Richmond, a well known resident of Walla Walla, owns twelve hundred acres of fine land in Walla Walla county and derives a gratifying profit from its rental. He was born in Illinois, July 12, 1860, a son of Andrew J. and Mary J. (Lane) Richmond. The father was born in Ohio but for a number of years resided in Illinois. In 1880 he came to the Pacific northwest and took up his home in Oregon, where both he and his wife passed away. All of their six children survive.

O. M. Richmond was a student in the public schools of his native state and thus obtained his education. He was nineteen years of age when he accompanied his parents on the long journey across the plains and he assisted his father in developing the homestead. He continued to farm in that state until 1913, when he came to Walla Walla, where he has since resided. He purchased land in Walla Walla county and now owns twelve hundred acres but rents it to others, preferring to live retired. He has gained the success which is his through industry and sound judgment and the rest which he is now enjoying is well deserved.

Mr. Richmond was married in 1889 to Miss Nellie Preston, who was born in Illinois and is a daughter of William and Margaret (Hatch) Preston, natives of Illinois. In 1879 the Preston family removed to Oregon and for a number of years resided on a farm in that state. The father died in Oregon and the mother subsequently came to Walla Walla and is now living with Mr. and Mrs. Richmond. The latter have two daughters: Gladys, the wife of O. Taylor, of Walla Walla county; and N. Bernice, who is a graduate of Whitman College and is teaching music.

MR. AND MRS. O. M. RICHMOND

Mr. Richmond belongs to the Baptist church and seeks to further its work in every way possible. In politics he is a democrat and has served capably on the school board. Fraternally he belongs to the Artisans. Although he has resided in Walla Walla for only a few years he has already won the sincere friendship of many, his salient characteristics being such as invariably command respect and regard.

ALVIN G. BAUMEISTER.

Formerly as a clothing merchant and later in the real estate and insurance field Alvin G. Baumeister has made for himself a most creditable position in the business circles of Walla Walla, where he has been conducting his interests as a member of the firm of Shaw & Baumeister. He is a native son of the city in which he resides and the course which he has pursued throughout his entire life has been such as to commend him to the confidence, goodwill and high respect of all with whom he has been associated. He was born in this city January 23, 1883, and is a representative of one of its oldest and most honored pioneer families, his parents being Max and Alvine (Schweiker) Baumeister, of whom more extended mention is made on another page of this work.

Alvin G. Baumeister began his education in the schools of Walla Walla, passing through consecutive grades to the high school. On the 1st of February, 1905, when he was a young man of about twenty-two years, he was united in marriage to Miss Myrtle E. Wilson, a daughter of P. H. Wilson, one of the prominent farmers of Walla Walla county and one of its well known pioneer citizens. With a good education and now with a home for which to provide, Mr. Baumeister seriously took up the duties of life and in the year of his marriage became identified with the commercial interests of Walla Walla, establishing and conducting a clothing and furnishing goods store. He carried on the business with growing success for about three years or until 1908, when he disposed of his store and removed to Seattle. He remained for nine months in that city and was employed in a clothing store, but upon his father's death in 1909 he returned to Walla Walla and became his successor in the real estate and insurance business, in which he has been engaged until recently. He had one of the large agencies of this character and negotiated many important realty transfers. He thoroughly understands property values and has handled business interests of importance in this line. He also had a well organized insurance department, representing a number of the most reliable companies, and he wrote a large amount of insurance. Thus his interests were profitably managed and his course illustrates what may be accomplished by serious endeavor. Recently he has sold his insurance business in Walla Walla and has now identified himself with a new organization, established in St. Louis, Missouri. This new company is to be known as The Liberty Insurance Corporation of which all capital is to be invested in liberty bonds.

Mr. Baumeister also figures prominently in fraternal circles. He has membership in Walla Walla Lodge, No. 7, A. F. & A. M.; in Walla Walla Chapter, No. 1, R. A. M.; in Washington Commandery, No. 1, K. T.; in Oriental Consistory, A. & A. S. R., of Spokane; and in El Katif Temple, A. A. O. N. M. S., also of Spokane. His name is likewise on the membership rolls of Trinity Lodge, No. 19, I. O. O. F., and of the encampment, and he belongs to Walla Walla Lodge, No. 287, B. P. O. E. He likewise belongs to the Commercial Club and is a member of the Walla Walla Golf Club—associations that further indicate the nature of his interests. In politics he is a republican, well versed on the questions and issues of the day and believing firmly in the principles of his party, yet he does not seek nor desire office, preferring to concentrate his energies and attention upon his business affairs. He ranks with the leading and representative business men of Walla Walla, where his entire life has been passed. His record is a commendable one, for at all times his course has displayed no esoteric phase. In all things he is open and aboveboard and an analyzation of his career shows that it is close application and indefatigable energy which have placed him in his present enviable position in real estate and insurance circles.

EDWARD BAUMEISTER.

In Saxe-Weimar, Germany, on June 24, 1848, was born the subject of this sketch. His father, Ernest Baumeister, was a native of Erfurt, Germany, and came to the United States in 1854, bringing his family. Settlement was made in New York state and so thoroughly did the elder Baumeister identify himself with the interests of the country of his adoption, that upon the breaking out of the rebellion, he promptly enlisted in a New York regiment of volunteer cavalry and served with distinction and valor until the last conflict at Fredericksburg when he was wounded and soon gave his life for his country. He had married Miss Charlotte Schroeder, also a native of Germany.

Our subject was but a lad when his father died and the same spirit that pervaded the breast of the ancestor, was found well planted in the heart of his son. He, too, has taken up the cause of his country in a determined and loyal way, championing those measures and principles which are for the upbuilding of our free institutions. After attending the common schools of New York until he was twelve years old, he accompanied his brother, Max, to California. For two years he served an apprenticeship there as a barber and in April, 1863, he and his brother moved to Washington and settled in Walla Walla where for nineteen years they followed the barber trade. Then selling out they engaged for two years in the real estate and insurance business.

In 1885 Edward Baumeister moved to Lewiston and accepted a position in the general store of John P. Vollmer & Company. For seven months he served faithfully there and in the fall of 1885, came to the town of Asotin, then located farther up the river than at present. Mr. Baumeister selected the place where Asotin now stands and opened a fine general merchandise establishment. This general store was, for many years, the commercial center of the county. The upper rooms of the building were used for lodge and court room purposes. During the panic of 1893-5, the firm practically financed the county. Much of the grain and live stock of the county was bought by the company and shipped away. At one time, several hundred horses were driven by the firm back to Missouri and Illinois. During these years, the store acted as the bank and financial clearinghouse of the county and in 1900, the first bank in the county was opened in connection with the business. In 1908, the general store was sold but the bank was retained, and is still doing a leading business in the county.

EDWARD BAUMEISTER

In addition to the property already mentioned, Mr. Baumeister has extensive holdings in real estate in Asotin county as well as in other places in Washington and Idaho and is considered one of the wealthy and substantial men of the state.

In political matters, Mr. Baumeister has been a life long republican and it can be said that throughout his public career he has shown the same care and painstaking effort in public matters as that which brought him success in his own business. Fraternally, he is an Odd Fellow, having joined that order in Walla Walla, in 1869. At the present time, January, 1918, he is the only man living who was a member at the time of his initiation in Enterprise Lodge, No. 2. He was the first representative from the Grand Encampment of the then territory of Washington, to the Sovereign Grand Lodge, which met that year at Minneapolis. He is also a charter member of Riverside Lodge, No. 41, of Asotin, and a member of the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks, at Lewiston, Idaho.

Edward Baumeister is practically the father of Asotin county and has been for many years one of the leading men of the state. For two terms, he represented Asotin, Garfield and Columbia counties in the state senate and for fifty-four years he has been associated with every financial, political and social movement in southeastern Washington. He has been personally acquainted with every governor of the territory, and the state, up to the present time except the first four. For thirty-two years, he has lived and labored in Asotin and been intimately associated with every step in the growth of the county and city. Throughout all these years, Mr. Baumeister has borne an unblemished reputation for honesty, kindness and genuine goodness. At the time of this writing he is undoubtedly the best known and best loved man in Asotin county. He is a striking example of what can be accomplished by courage, optimism and persistency in spite of the handicap of lack of scholastic training and financial resources. He is, in fact, a self made man who has done a good job. His life is thus an example worthy of imitation by every young man, and this, in the opinion of the writer, is about the highest praise anyone can be given.

Although now seventy years of age, he is still an active and progressive citizen. At the present time, he is president of the local commercial club, chairman of the Red Cross war fund and the thrift stamp and war saving certificate fund of the county. All these public interests he carries in addition to his regular duties as president of his bank.

At College Point, New York, May 3, 1870, Mr. Baumeister married Miss Elizabeth Miller. They will soon celebrate their golden wedding and it may be truthfully said of Mrs. Baumeister that her interests in the development of the Inland Empire, have been as great as those of her husband. She is widely known, interested in every good movement and many a cause has been aided by her during her life as a pioneer woman.

To Mr. and Mrs. Baumeister were born two children: Anna C., wife of Dr. Stephen D. Brazeau of Spokane; and Alletta W., wife of W. L. Thompson, president of the American National Bank, of Pendleton, Oregon. Mrs. Baumeister has been, for many years, a member of the Protestant Episcopal church and a liberal supporter of all benefactions. Though not directly allied with the church, Mr. Baumeister exemplified in his life, many of the virtues of the Christian, and really tries to carry out, in his life, the principles of righteousness.

MORDO McDONALD.

Mordo McDonald, one of the prominent men of Walla Walla county, is not only successfully operating large tracts of land but is also active in public affairs, his energy and capability enabling him to accomplish much. He was born in Stark county, Illinois, February 18, 1863, the son of John and Jane (Grant) McDonald, both natives of Scotland, the former being born in the village of Sheldaig, Apple Cross parish, in the northern part of Scotland, July 10, 1823. The parents were reared and married in their native country and the father followed the career of a sea captain. In 1857 they came to the United States and, continuing their journey, traversed the continent as far as Stark county, Illinois, where they located. The father farmed there until 1863, when he removed with his family to the far west, crossing the seemingly illimitable plains with one yoke of oxen and one yoke of cows, which they milked every day on the journey. Under the most favorable conditions the long trip overland to the coast was fraught with many hardships, but the difficulties of the journey were increased by the fact that the father broke his leg on the second day out. However, he was confined to his bed but eighteen days, and then he was able to walk on crutches. At length Oregon was reached and he took up a homestead not far from the town of La Grande. He brought the place under cultivation and met with gratifying success in his farming operations, continuing to reside upon the homestead. He passed away November 17, 1903, and his wife died two years later, November 16, 1905.