Chapter 8

WILLIAM KIRKMANOn the 4th of February, 1867, in San Francisco, Mr. Kirkman was united in marriage to Miss Isabella Potts, a native of Ireland and a daughter of Robert and Agnes (Evans) Potts, who passed their entire lives on the Emerald isle. Mrs. Kirkman came to the United States in her girlhood, going to San Francisco to join her two sisters who were already residing there. The four surviving children of Mr. and Mrs. Kirkman are William H., Fannie A., Myrtle B. and Leslie G. The eldest son was horn in Idaho in May, 1868, and pursued his education in Whitman College and in the Boston University, from which he was graduated on the completion of a law course in the class of 1893 and then located for practice in Walla Walla, where he followed his profession for two years. He wedded Maud Ashley, who passed away in 1905, leaving one son, William Leslie, who was born in 1901. William H. Kirkman resided in Walla Walla and filled the office of clerk of the federal court for a year. He was also a member of the city council and a member of the school board. Fraternally he was connected with the Masons as a member of the York Rite and of the Mystic Shrine, and he also held membership with the Elks, in which he filled all of the chairs of the local lodge. Fannie A. is the wife of A. H. Reynolds, a prominent attorney and president of the Farmers Savings Bank of Walla Walla. The youngest son, Leslie G., was born in Walla Walla in June, 1881, and pursued his education in the schools of his native city. He married Mabelle E. Hawman and they have one child, Leslie Gilmore, who was born in 1916. Leslie G. Kirkman is an Elk and a Mason. He resides in Walla Walla and he and his brother are engaged in farming, the latter having retired from law practice, and they are now devoting their attention to the cultivation, development and further improvement of the old homestead property which was left by their father. Myrtle B. Kirkman resides with her mother in Walla Walla.William Kirkman was very prominent in civic affairs and exerted great influence on many interests that had to do with the upbuilding and progress of Walla Walla. His political allegiance was given to the republican party and he was a delegate to the national republican convention which was held in Minneapolis in 1892 and nominated Benjamin Harrison. He was appointed on the committee with William McKinley to notify Mr. Harrison of his nomination. Mr. Kirkman served on the first board of directors of the penitentiary upon its establishment and was a member of the board of education in Walla Walla, contributing much to the development of its school system. As previously stated, he was closely associated with the welfare and progress of Whitman College and was still a member of its board of directors at the time of his demise. He was a man of sterling qualities, possessing a kindly, genial disposition that endeared himto those who came in contact with him, and was charitable to a fault. Although not a member of any church, he was a liberal contributor to the support of various religious bodies of the city and no worthy cause appealed to him in vain. His interests were broad and embraced all that was worth while in life, yet his greatest care and his fullest devotion were always given to his home and family.CLEMENT O. BERGEVIN.Clement O. Bergevin, who is actively engaged in farming on section 35, township 7 north, range 34 east, was born on the old Bergevin homestead in this part of Walla Walla county, his natal day being March 16, 1891. He is a son of Damase and Mary P. (Allard) Bergevin, the former a native of Canada and of French extraction. He is mentioned elsewhere in this work.Clement O. Bergevin spent his youthful days in his father's home and acquired his education in the old French town school. In 1912 he began farming on his own account. He had been reared to that occupation and early became familiar with the best methods of tilling the soil and cultivating the crops. He thus brought broad experience to his work when he started out independently. He is now cultivating three hundred and twenty acres of land, upon which he now resides and which is a part of his father's estate. He also owns a third equity in a farm of three hundred and twenty acres elsewhere in the same township and a third equity in a five hundred acre tract. His farming interests are thus extensive and important and in all of his business affairs he displays marked energy and determination. His industry has enabled him to overcome obstacles and difficulties in his path and capable management has brought him substantial reward.On the 12th of May, 1915, Mr. Bergevin was united in marriage to Miss Hazel Johnson, of Walla Walla, a daughter of Edward Johnson, one of the prominent coal dealers of that city. Mr. Bergevin is a member of the Catholic church and is identified with the Knights of Columbus. He has comparatively few outside interests, however, preferring to concentrate his efforts and attention upon his business affairs. He is yet a young man who has only passed the twenty-sixth milestone on life's journey, but already he has made for himself a place in business circles that many a man of twice his years might well envy. He displays good judgment in all that he does and his careful management of his property and his progressive methods of farming are bringing to him merited success.NELSON McSHERRY.Nelson McSherry made for himself a creditable position in the business and political circles of Prescott, so that his death was the occasion of deep and widespread regret when on the 27th of July, 1916, he passed away. He was then but sixty-one years of age, his birth having occurred on the 31st of July, 1855. He was a native of Pennsylvania and a son of J. J. and Margaret(Mitchner) McSherry, both of whom were natives of the Keystone state. At an early day they removed with their family to Missouri, settling near Warrensburg, where they spent their remaining days, and there Nelson McSherry was reared and educated. He was a young man of twenty-five years when in 1880 he was united in marriage to Miss Mary E. Harvey, of Warrensburg, and to them were born five children: Lulu, who is the wife of J. D. Walter; Robert, who is living in Nevada; Joseph C., whose home is in Prescott; Urie D.; and Hester.Mr. and Mrs. McSherry began their domestic life in Missouri and there resided until 1888, when they came with their family to the northwest, establishing their home in Prescott, where Mr. McSherry embarked in business as proprietor of a small mercantile establishment. He adapted himself and his affairs to this part of the country and the conditions here existing and in the course of years he built up a growing and gratifying business. He closely studied the needs of the people in relation to the line of goods which he carried and by reason of his carefully selected stock, his reasonable prices and his straightforward dealing he won a very liberal and well deserved patronage, so that his business became one of the profitable enterprises of the town.In public affairs Mr. McSherry also took a deep and helpful interest. His fellow townsmen, recognizing his worth and ability, elected him the first mayor of Prescott. He was always ready to advance the interests of the town in every possible way and stood at all times for progress and improvement. Fraternally he was connected with the Woodmen of the World and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. He was reared a Methodist, but Mrs. McSherry is a member of the Presbyterian church. In 1913, because of failing health, he retired from active business and turned the management of his store over to his sons. Death called him in 1916 and at his passing deep regret was felt for he was a progressive business man, a loyal and patriotic citizen, a faithful friend and a devoted husband and father. He counted it his greatest happiness to provide for the welfare and comfort of his wife and children and in every relation of life he manifested those sterling qualities which command respect, confidence and honor in every land and clime.GEORGE E. LAMBDIN.George E. Lambdin has been actively and prominently identified with farming and stock raising interests in the northwest and is now carrying on general agricultural pursuits on section 22, township 7 north, range 32 east, in Walla Walla county. He was born on the 27th of September, 1870, in Montana, his parents being Samuel and Mary E. (Spade) Lambdin. The father was a native of Delaware, while the mother's birth occurred in Ohio. They were married in Iowa and at the time of the opening up of the gold fields in Montana, in 1865, they crossed the plains with ox teams to that state. The father worked in the mines in Deer Lodge valley and also in the Butte mines for six years and the family went through the usual experiences of the mining camp in the west. In 1872 they removed to Walla Walla county, Washington, where Mr. Lambdinpreempted a quarter section of land just across the line in Oregon, on the present site of Freewater. Ten years later he crossed the border into Washington and took up a homestead on section 30, township 7 north, range 32 east, in Walla Walla county. He then lived in this immediate vicinity until the time of his death and during the later years of his life made his home with his son, George E., whose name introduces this review. He passed away April 20, 1908.George E. Lambdin spent his youthful days upon the home farm and acquired a district school education. As early as his seventeenth year he began his career as a sheepman, starting with twenty-five head. While working for H. C. Adams as a sheep herder he accumulated a small number of sheep and his herd multiplied rapidly, so that about 1900 he was in a position to operate for himself on a larger scale and began independent activities. In the intervening years he has acquired from three to four thousand acres of grazing land and while he has recently sold off his own flock, he is associated with C. W. Stevelan in operating sheep interests under lease. In this connection he is among the most prominent sheepmen of the county. His business affairs are wisely and carefully directed. His long experience in connection with the sheep industry has taught him exactly how to care for his flock so that the best results will be achieved. There is no feature of sheep raising with which he is not familiar and his intelligently directed interests have brought very substantial results.In 1903 Mr. Lambdin was married to Miss Catherine A. Bradley, of Walla Walla county, and they have become the parents of three children: Samuel Allen, Mary Isabelle and Margaret Elizabeth. In politics Mr. Lambdin maintains an independent course, although he is inclined to give his support to the republican party. He belongs to Attalia Lodge, No. 294, I. O. O. F., of Attalia, Washington, and he also has membership with the Modern Woodmen of America and with the Royal Neighbors. He is true and loyal to the teachings of these organizations and exemplifies in his life the beneficent spirit which underlies the different societies. As a business man his position is one of prominence and his capability is widely recognized. He deserves much credit for what he has accomplished, for from an early age he has been dependent upon his own resources. As the years have gone by his labors have brought substantial results and he is today accounted one of the foremost sheepmen of the northwest.HON. ELGIN V. KUYKENDALL.Hon. Elgin V. Kuykendall is a member of the state senate of Washington and is one of Pomeroy's foremost attorneys. His record reflects credit and honor upon the district which has honored him. He has done splendid work both as lawyer and lawmaker and has become prominently connected with a profession which has ever been regarded as having much to do with the stability, prosperity and upbuilding of every district, standing as the stern conservator of the rights, privileges and liberties of the individual. His entire life has been spent in the west with its boundless opportunities and limitless resources, and with him opportunity has ever been the clarion call to action. He was born in Oakland, Oregon, October 8, 1870, a son of Dr. G. B. Kuykendall, a foremost citizen and leading pioneer physician of Pomeroy, who is mentioned at length on another page of this work.Elgin V. Kuykendall was educated in the public schools of Garfield county and has learned many valuable lessons in the school of experience, for he has ever been a close and attentive observer of men and of measures. Determining upon a professional career, he took up the study of law in 1892, pursuing his reading under the preceptorship of Samuel G. Cosgrove of Pomeroy, who was afterward governor of Washington. In 1894 Mr. Kuykendall was admitted to the bar but did not immediately take up the active practice of the profession but continued to give his attention to educational work, in which for some time he had been engaged. He had proven a capable teacher, imparting readily and clearly to others the knowledge that he had acquired, and in 1894 he was elected county superintendent of schools, in which office he served for one term. During the last year of his incumbency in that position he was appointed to fill out an unexpired term of six months as principal of the Pomeroy high school. In 1897, however, he concentrated his efforts and attention upon the practice of law and in 1898 was elected prosecuting attorney of Garfield county, in which position he served for one term. In 1900 he was elected mayor of Pomeroy and occupied that position for one term, giving to the city a businesslike and progressive administration characterized by needed reforms and measures of public improvement. At the same time he continued in the practice of law independently until February, 1898, when he entered into partnership with Judge Mack F. Gose under the firm name of Gose & Kuykendall, a relationship that existed until the appointment of the senior partner to the supreme bench in 1900. Mr. Kuykendall then practiced alone for two years and in 1911 the present law firm of Kuykendall & McCabe was formed, C. Alexander McCabe being admitted to a partnership that still maintains, the firm occupying now a very prominent position in the legal circles of the state. Their practice is extensive and of an important character and in the conduct thereof Mr. Kuykendall has displayed talent, learning, tact, patience and industry. His legal learning, his analytical mind, the readiness with which he grasps the points in an argument all combine to make him a strong advocate and a wise counselor. In connection with his brothers he has fourteen hundred acres of land held in equity.In 1896 Mr. Kuykendall was joined in wedlock to Miss Marguerite Scully, a daughter of Matthew Scully, who was one of the pioneer farmers of Asotin county, Washington, and now resides near Twin Falls, Idaho. Mr. and Mrs. Kuykendall have become the parents of four children, as follows: Matthew Lorraine, a student in the Washington State College; Ruth Lenore, who attended the State Normal School at Cheney, Washington, and is now engaged in teaching in Garfield county; Berdina Claire, a high school student at Pomeroy; and Jerome Kenneth, who is attending the graded schools.Both Mr. and Mrs. Kuykendall are members of the Methodist church and she is president of the Ladies' Aid Society of that church and also president of the Civic Improvement Club of Pomeroy. She is likewise a member of the Red Cross Society.In his political connection Mr. Kuykendall has always been a stalwart republican and in November, 1916, he was chosen to represent his district in the state senate, where he was made a member of a sub-committee for framing anew probate code. He has been a conspicuous figure in the legislative halls and has served repeatedly as chairman of the state central committee of the republican party, thus taking active part in guiding the destinies of his party in the northwest. While serving as mayor of Pomeroy he was instrumental in establishing the present city park, which the city purchased from Governor Cosgrove. Fraternally he is connected with Garfield Lodge, No. 25, K. P., and has been quite active in the affairs of that organization. He has been a member of the grand judiciary committee of the state for sixteen years, a longer period than that of any other incumbent in the position. He is also identified with the Woodmen of the World. His interests are broad and varied and in relation to the great sociological, economic and political problems of the country he keeps abreast with the best thinking men of the age. He is forceful and his ability and initiative have made him a dynamic power in the public life of southeastern Washington.J. U. STRAHM.At a period when the government owned most of the land in Washington and the work of progress and development seemed scarcely begun, J. U. Strahm and his wife came to Walla Walla county and cast in their lot with its pioneer settlers. They here underwent many of the hardships and privations incident to establishing a home on the frontier, but with resolute spirit they met all these and in the course of years came to enjoy the comforts of modern day civilization. Mr. Strahm was born in Switzerland, July 30, 1827, and was but six years of age when brought to America by his parents, the family home being established in Ohio. They afterward removed to Iowa and in 1849 J. U. Strahm removed to California, attracted by the discovery of gold on the Pacific coast. There he remained for three years, after which he returned to Missouri, where in 1864 he was united in marriage to Miss Mary Jane Farley, a daughter of Harvey and Elizabeth (Bruett) Farley, the former a native of Ohio, while the latter was born in Indiana. The father was killed while serving as a soldier in the Civil war and the mother afterward passed away in Tennessee.Following their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Strahm resolved to try their fortune in the far west and made their way across the country to Walla Walla county, where he took up a homestead near Dixie. There was little to indicate the wonderful changes which were still to occur as the white settlers penetrated into this region and reclaimed its rich resources for the purposes of civilization. The greater part of the land was still unclaimed and uncultivated and the most farsighted could scarcely have dreamed of what the future held in store for this rich district. Mr. Strahm became actively identified with its farming interests and bent his energies to the development of his place, bringing his fields under a high state of cultivation and therefore annually gathering rich harvests.To Mr. and Mrs. Strahm were born fourteen children, eleven of whom are now living: Ann J., the widow of John Byrd; William H., who is deceased; Elizabeth, the wife of John Glynn; Rosa D., the wife of Tom Hastings; Mary E., the wife of Eldon Buroker; Nora J., the wife of Joel Chitwood; John E.; Nannie V., who is the wife of Alfred Brown; Lucretia R., the wife of AlvinMcElvain; Viola, the wife of Fred Wells; Edna, at home; Alma B., the wife of Jene Green; and two who are deceased.The death of Mr. Strahm occurred February 11, 1895, at which time his remains were interred in the Dixie cemetery. He had been a devoted husband and father and had put forth every possible effort to aid in promoting the welfare and happiness of his family. His widow still occupies the old homestead, having eighty acres in her farm near Dixie, and the careful development and improvement of the property insures to her a substantial annual income.CHARLES C. LONEY.Prominent among the real estate men of Walla Walla is Charles C. Loney of the firm of Loney, Ginn & Kerrick. He was born in Toronto, Canada, on the 7th of June, 1876, a son of Charles and Charlotte (Cole) Loney, both of whom were natives of Belfast, Ireland. They came to Canada in childhood with their respective parents and were there reared to manhood and womanhood. In 1883 they came to the United States, arriving in Walla Walla on the 19th of August of that year. Here the father engaged in farming and became one of the leading agriculturists of Walla Walla county, having extensive interests. He acquired some two thousand acres of valuable land near the city and for a long period gave personal supervision to the further development and improvement of his farm. For several years prior to his death, however, he lived retired from active work, turning his farms over to his sons. He then took up his abode in the city and throughout his remaining days enjoyed a well earned rest. He died in 1907, having for a considerable period survived his wife, who passed away in 1902. Both were consistent members of the Baptist church and were earnest Christian people whose well spent lives are worthy of emulation.Charles C. Loney was educated in the Walla Walla high school, from which he was graduated with the class of 1896. Following the completion of his studies he cooperated with his father in the management and operation of his extensive farming interests until the father's retirement in 1901, at which time Charles C. Loney took charge of the farm, continuing its further cultivation and improvement until 1911. In the meantime he had purchased the property of his father and in the year designated he sold the home place and became a resident of Walla Walla, where he opened a real estate and loan office. He has since been prominently identified with that business and places many loans, while at the same time he negotiates many important realty transfers. Since 1911 he has purchased one hundred acres of land in Umatilla county, Oregon, and eight hundred acres in Columbia county, Washington. This property he still owns and rents. He also has three hundred and thirty acres on Dry creek, near Walla Walla, on which he is engaged in breeding and raising thoroughbred Percheron horses. He thus ranks with the leading agriculturists and stock raisers of this section of the state, while at the same time he has won for himself a most creditable position as a real estate dealer.On the 12th of January, 1917, Mr. Loney was united in marriage to Miss Hazel Velma Wright, of Walla Walla, a daughter of Robert Wright, who is anative of Umatilla county, Oregon, and for many years has been a prominent farmer of Walla Walla county.Mr. Loney holds membership in Enterprise Lodge, No. 2, I. O. O. F., and also in Walla Walla Encampment, No. 3. He votes with the republican party and is interested in all matters of progressive citizenship, cooperating in every plan and measure which he deems of value and benefit to the community. The greater part of his life has been spent in this section of the state and he has become imbued with the spirit of western enterprise that has led to the rapid and substantial upbuilding of this section of the state. This spirit has been the dominant factor in the attainment of his own success, a success that now places him with the men of affluence in his adopted county.HON. OLIVER T. CORNWELL.Hon. Oliver T. Cornwell is a dominant factor in the agricultural, commercial and financial circles of Walla Walla and the Inland Empire and has also exerted a marked influence over public thought and action as a member of the state senate, in which he is now representing the eleventh senatorial district. It was Mr. Cornwell who in large measure introduced the commission form of government here and in all his public work he has been actuated by a spirit of progress, improvement and of marked devotion to the general good. He is indeed prominent as a man whose constantly expanding powers have taken him from humble surroundings to the field of large enterprises and continually broadening opportunities. Bringing to bear a clear understanding that readily solves complex problems, he has been able to unite diverse interests into a harmonious whole with results that indicate his keen sagacity and unfaltering enterprise.Mr. Cornwell is a native son of Walla Walla county, his birth having occurred upon a farm six miles north of the city of Walla Walla on the 22nd of March, 1863. His father, James Madison Cornwell, became one of the Walla Walla pioneers of 1861 and is mentioned elsewhere in this work. The son was reared on the old homestead with the usual experiences of the farm bred boy and acquired his early education in the district schools, after which he became a student in Whitman College. When nineteen years of age he assumed the operation of the home place and continued to cultivate its fields for three years as a renter. After reaching his majority he went up into the Palouse country, in Whitman county, and there engaged in the raising of cattle and horses. He remained in Whitman county for eight years, after which he returned to Walla Walla and in company with H. S. Stott founded the drug house of Stott & Cornwell, with which he was identified for three years. He then resumed active connection with farming and stock raising interests and also began buying and shipping cattle, with which business he has since been closely associated, being one of the most prominent representatives of agricultural interests in this section of the state. He now owns fourteen hundred acres of wheat land in Walla Walla county and he also has heavy holdings in Alberta, Canada. Mr. Cornwell is a man of forcefulness and resourcefulness and has by no means limited his activities and energies to a single line. In fact, as extensive as are his agricultural activities, he has also made for himself a notable place in commercial and financial circles. About 1903 he was one of the dominant factors in the organization of the Walla Walla County Lumber Company, of which he became president, and in that capacity he has since continued, his intelligent direction of the affairs of the company being one of the most potent elements in his growing and continued success. He was also one of the organizers of the Peoples State Bank of Walla Walla and was made a member of its board of directors, which position he has since filled. He has also been identified with interests of a public and semi-public character that have had much to do with promoting general progress. He served for a number of years as president of the Farmers Union and while acting in that capacity the Walla Walla Farmers' Agency was organized, of which Mr. Cornwell was elected president, and reelection has continued him in that position to the present time.OLIVER T. CORNWELLMRS. OLIVER T. CORNWELLOn the 19th of August, 1888, occurred the marriage of Mr. Cornwell and Miss Ella Crowell, of Walla Walla, a daughter of Henry A. and Mary A. (Thurman) Crowell, who came to Walla Walla from Iowa in 1874. The mother was a niece of Allen G. Thurman, the great democratic leader, who was long known as "the Old Roman." To Mr. and Mrs. Cornwell have been born three children, Lessie L., Ethel L. and Olive E.Mr. Cornwell holds membership with the Masonic fraternity, belonging to Blue Mountain Lodge, No. 7, F. & A. M.; to Walla Walla Chapter, No. 1, R. A. M.; to Walla Walla Commandery, No. 2, K. T.; to Oriental Consistory, No. 1, A. & A. S. R, of Spokane; and to El Katif Temple; A. A. O. N. M. S., also of Spokane. He likewise has membership with Washington Lodge, No. 19, I. O. O. F., and with the Walla Walla Encampment of that order.His chief activity aside from business has been as a supporter of the republican party and a recognized leader in its ranks. The first position to which he was called was that of city councilman of Walla Walla in 1897. In 1900 he was chosen to represent his district in the Washington state senate, where he served for four years with honor and ability. In the November election of 1915 he was again chosen a member of the state senate and during his present term has been called upon for much important committee service. He is now a member of the committees on municipal corporations, on education, on industrial insurance, on irrigation and arid lands, public utilities, roads and bridges, rules and joint rules, banks and banking. He has done much to shape the policy of his party and for eight years was chairman of the republican county central committee and has been a member of the state central committee. It was Mr. Cornwell who organized and successfully carried through the campaign establishing the commission form of government in Walla Walla. His career has at all times reflected credit and honor upon the people that have honored him. The universality of his friendships interprets for us his intellectual hospitality and the breadth of his sympathy, for nothing is foreign to him that concerns his fellows. Anyone meeting Mr. Cornwell face to face would know at once that he is an individual embodying all the elements of what in this country we term a "square" man—one in whom to have confidence, a dependable man in any relation and any emergency. His quietude of deportment, his easy dignity, his frankness and cordiality of address, with the total absence of anything sinister or anything to conceal, foretoken a man who is ready to meet any obligation of life with theconfidence and courage that come of conscious personal ability, the right conception of things and an habitual regard for what is best in the exercise of human activities.SAMUEL LOVE GILBREATH.Samuel Love Gilbreath, an honored pioneer of Columbia county, Washington, became a resident of Old Walla Walla county when there were few white settlers within its limits, and took up a homestead three miles from the city of Dayton, although it was a number of years later that the town was laid out. He was a successful farmer, loyal friend and a public-spirited citizen, and his demise was the occasion of sincere regret. He was born in McMinn county, Tennessee, March 25, 1825, and was of Scotch descent. He was a representative of one of the old families of the south, being a grandson of Archibald Rowan, the third governor of Tennessee. His education was that afforded by the common schools and he remained in his native state until he became of age. He then determined to try his fortune in the far west and, crossing the plains, settled in Yamhill county, Oregon. For a number of years he farmed there and then went into the cattle business, which occupied his attention until 1855, when the Cayuse Indian war broke out. He enlisted for six months' service in the First Oregon Mounted Cavalry Regiment, which did good work in putting down the uprising both in Oregon and Washington. He was later for six months assistant wagon master and one of his duties was the gruesome task of hauling the bodies of the dead back to The Dalles, from which point they were shipped to relatives in the Willamette valley.Following his marriage in 1859 Mr. Gilbreath drove a herd of cattle to Old Walla Walla county, Washington. At that time the city of Walla Walla comprised but a very few buildings and the settlers in the county were few and far between. He took up a homestead three miles southwest of the present city of Dayton and built a log cabin with puncheon floors, which remained the family home for a number of years. There were many hardships to be endured in those early days but the lot of the pioneer was lightened by the spirit of hospitality and cooperation which prevailed. Travelers were welcomed at every log cabin and the service of each settler was at the disposal of the others. Mr. Gilbreath worked hard and gave careful attention to his business affairs and as time passed his resources increased. The first crude buildings upon his farm were at length replaced by substantial and commodious structures and the place was brought to a high state of development. At the time of his death he owned two hundred acres of fine orchard and alfalfa land, of which his widow has since sold one hundred and twenty acres, still owning eighty acres, which is valued at a high price per acre.Mr. Gilbreath was married in 1859, in Oregon, to Miss Margaret H. Fanning, of Albany, and they became the parents of thirteen children, ten of whom survive, namely: Nancy E., a teacher; Mary, the wife of J. O. Mattoon; Lee, a resident of Columbia county; Joseph, a resident of Seattle; Susie, the wife of E. E. Martin; Rose, who is teaching in Seattle; Charles, a resident of WallaWalla; Grace, the wife of T. O. Morrison; James, an instructor in the University of Washington; and Fred, a graduate of West Point and a captain in the United States army, now with the American embassy in London.Mr. Gilbreath was a prominent factor in public affairs in the early days and was chosen the first county commissioner of Old Walla Walla county and the first sheriff of Columbia county. He was a firm believer in the value of higher education and sent several of his children to college. In many ways his influence was felt in the advancement of his community, and personally he was held in the highest esteem because of his unswerving integrity and his great capacity for friendship. His wife had the distinction of being the first white woman to take up her residence in the four counties comprised within Old Walla Walla county, and she, too, proved her courage and perseverance in performing cheerfully and efficiently the many and arduous duties that fell to the lot of the pioneer wife and mother.CHRIS H. ROMMEL.Chris H. Rommel is residing on section 35, township 14 north, range 41 east, Garfield county, and is operating one thousand acres of land, being therefore entitled to rank among the extensive farmers of Garfield county. He grew to manhood in Manchester, Michigan, and is indebted for his education to its public schools. When nineteen years of age he started out in life for himself and in 1893 came to Garfield county, Washington. For some years he rented a farm, during which time he carefully saved his money with the purpose of buying land as soon as possible. At length he purchased his present home farm and has extended its boundaries until he now owns one thousand acres.Mr. Rommel was married in 1893 to Miss Anna Smith, a native of California, and they have three children: Fred C., a high school graduate; Mary P., who is also a high school graduate and is now teaching; and Ena M.THOMAS A. RUSSEL.Thomas A. Russel, deceased, was for a number of years actively engaged in farming on section 3, township 6 north, range 35 east, Walla Walla county, and met with gratifying success. He was born in Ohio, September 26, 1831, and there grew to manhood and received his education. In 1849 he accompanied his father John Russel, to California, crossing the great unsettled plains of the west by team, a long, tedious and dangerous journey, and again in 1852 he came to the coast by the overland route, but each time he returned to Ohio, where he maintained his residence until 1864. In that year he went with his bride by horse team to the Sacramento valley of California, where he lived for three years, during which time he taught school. They then removed to Bowling Green, Missouri, and for twenty-one years he was a resident of that state. During that time he engaged in the practice of law, successfully appearing in most of the more important trials of his district. In 1888, however, he removed withhis family to Walla Walla county, Washington and the remainder of his life was devoted to agricultural pursuits.Mr. Russel was married in 1864 in Ohio to Miss Mary C. Willman, also a native of that state. To their union were born ten children: John B. and William, both of whom are deceased; Frank; Thomas and Anna, who have passed away; Phoebe L.; Lincoln and Grant, twins, and Leslie, the two latter being deceased; and Joseph, who resides in Canada.Many interesting experiences came to Mr. Russel in his long life, and from the time he accompanied his father to the west in 1849 until his death he was much interested in this section of the country, even while still residing in the east or middle west. He found great pleasure in watching the process of development that has made the west a rival of the east in all that pertains to the highest civilization, and his influence was invariably cast on the side of progress. He passed away in January, 1901, and was laid to rest in the Mountain View cemetery.HON. F. M. WEATHERFORD.Hon. F. M. Weatherford is now living practically retired in Dayton but for many years was actively and extensively connected with farming interests and is still the owner of much valuable wheat land in this section of the state. Moreover, he has been prominently connected with public affairs and has been called upon to represent his district in the general assembly. He was born in Missouri, November 12, 1855, and is a son of Alfred H. and Sophia (Smith) Weatherford, both of whom were natives of Virginia and at an early day removed westward to Missouri, where their remaining days were passed. They had a family of nine children but only three are now living.While born in the middle west, Hon. F. M. Weatherford has spent the greater part of his life in the Pacific coast country. He crossed the plains in 1864, when a lad of but nine years, and became a resident of Linn county, Oregon. The trip was made with ox teams and wagon and he was six months en route, experiencing many hardships and privations as the party traveled over the barren plains, the hot sandy desert and across the mountain ranges. He took up his abode with a brother in Oregon and there remained until 1872, when he made his way northward to Walla Walla county, Washington. The following year, when a youth of eighteen, he rented a farm nine miles southwest of Dayton in the section known as Bundy Hollow. Later he bought land east of Dayton and occupied that farm for twenty years, his labors bringing about a marked transformation in the appearance of the place, for when the land came into his possession it was wild and undeveloped. With characteristic energy he began to cultivate it, breaking the furrows, planting the seed and in due time gathering rich harvests. Year by year the work of operating the farm was carried on and as his financial resources increased he made other investments in property, adding to his holdings from time to time until he is now the owner of sixteen hundred acres of fine wheat land in Columbia county. He was also at one time vice president of the Farmers Exchange at Waitsburg, which he aided in organizing. He has now put aside the more active work of the fields, leaving that to others, while he is enjoying a well earned rest, having taken up his abode in Dayton. His farm property yields to him a most gratifying annual income and his energy and sound business judgment have brought him success.HON. F. M. WEATHERFORDIn 1878 Mr. Weatherford was united in marriage to Miss Harriet A. Turner and they have become parents of five children: William M.; J. C., who is living upon the home farm; Mary S., who is the wife of Elmer Dunlap; Clara L., the wife of W. E. Bruce; and Arthur M., who is also upon the home farm.In his political affiliation Mr. Weatherford is a democrat and has taken an active part in advancing the interests of the organization. His fellow townsmen, appreciative of his worth and his devotion to the party, elected him to represent them for one term in the state legislature. The cause of education finds in him a stalwart champion and he has done effective work in behalf of the schools as a member of the school board. Fraternally he is connected with Dayton Lodge, No. 136, I. O. O. F., and both he and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church, South, and in its work take an active and helpful interest, doing all in their power to extend its growth and promote its purpose. Mr. Weatherford deserves much credit for what he has accomplished. He started out in the business world empty-handed, yet he has passed many another traveler on life's journey whose start was perhaps more advantageous. His success is the direct result of indefatigable industry intelligently directed, and, advancing year by year, he has become one of the prominent and prosperous men of Columbia county.HON. DAVID H. COX.Hon. David H. Cox has back of him an ancestry honorable and distinguished. Upon the family records appear the names of several who have been active in connection with framing state or national legislation. His own career has been cast in harmony with the family record and he is now a member of the state senate of Washington. For many years he has figured conspicuously and honorably in agricultural and commercial circles and is still actively identified with farming, his attention now being given to the management of his farm property. A native of eastern Tennessee, he was born December 28, 1865, a son of Elbert S. and Mary Louise (Beyers) Cox, both of whom were natives of Tennessee, where they spent their entire lives. The mother was a niece of John Severe, who was the first governor of Tennessee and a brother of her mother. Elbert S. Cox was for many years one of the leading merchants of Jonesboro, Tennessee, and was also extensively engaged in farming, having near the town a large tract of land which he successfully and wisely cultivated. He was also prominent in public affairs of the community and served for one term as member of congress from his district. He took a most active and helpful part in public thought and action and all that he did was characterized by a spirit of progressiveness that made him one of the most valued residents of Jonesboro. He passed away July 3, 1881, the day on which President Garfield was shot, in the Pennsylvania Railroad station at Washington, D. C.David H. Cox supplemented his public school education by study in Milliken College of eastern Tennessee and when nineteen years of age he started out in the business world on his own account, going to Texas, where he remained for a year. In 1885 he came to the northwest with Walla Walla as his destination. Here he arrived on the 6th of October of that year, possessed of courage and determination but of no funds. His financial condition rendered it imperative that he obtain immediate employment and he soon secured a position on a farm. He willingly accepted any employment that would yield him an honest living. He proved so capable in his farm work that his employer, recognizing his ability, offered to loan him the amount necessary to enable him to engage in business for himself. He took up the occupation of farming and for a considerable period rented land. Since that date he has never been without farm land of his own and for many years has been a most prominent figure in agricultural circles in this section of the state. In 1889, while still continuing in his farming operations, he became identified with the Pacific Coast Elevator Company and managed the business from 1889 until 1901. He then became associated with Walter S. Barnett and established the mercantile house of Cox, Barnett & Company, under which firm name they transacted an extensive grocery and hardware business, their sales amounting in later years to between twenty-five and thirty thousand dollars per month. They continued the business in a very successful manner until 1910, when Mr. Cox, in company with Hugh A. Martin, organized the Independent Grain Company, under which title they carried on business successfully for four years. Since then Mr. Cox has given his undivided attention to the management of his farming properties, which represent judicious investments and are the expression of well directed business ability.In 1890 Mr. Cox was united in marriage to Miss Decima E. Yeend, of Walla Walla county, a daughter of William Yeend, one of the pioneer farmers of this section of the state, who came to Washington from England in 1869. Mr. and Mrs. Cox have become the parents of two children: Arthur E., who is farming his father's land; and Dessie, at home.The family occupies a very enviable position in social circles and the hospitality of the best homes of Walla Walla is freely accorded them. Mr. Cox is a stalwart republican in his political views and has done much to further the interests and promote the success of the party. He served for several years as member of the Walla Walla city council and in 1908 was elected to the state senate, serving as a member of the upper house of the general assembly for four years. In 1912 he was a candidate for state treasurer, and while he carried thirty-four out of the thirty-eight counties, he was defeated by the Pierce county vote. In 1916 he was again elected to the state senate, in which capacity he is now serving. He is an earnest working member of the upper house, carefully considering the vital questions which come up for settlement, and his position in support or opposition of any measure is never an equivocal one. He stands loyally for what he believes to be the best interests of the commonwealth and in his political record he has ever been willing to subordinate personal interests to the general good. Mr. and Mrs. Cox are consistent and faithful members of the Methodist church and he has had the honor of representing his church at the general conference for three successive terms. He is chairman of theboard of trustees of the church and does everything in his power to advance its cause and extend its influence. While he has won notable success he has never made the attainment of wealth the sole ambition of his life. He has recognized his duties and obligations in other connections and has stood at all times for that which is most worth while in citizenship and in the moral development of the people at large. His life record is characterized by many honorable phases and should well serve as a source of encouragement to others and constitute an example which others may profitably follow. Coming to the west empty-handed, he has here intelligently directed his efforts with a result that has been most notable and gratifying, but winning prosperity has been but one feature of his activities, for his course has been so directed that he has gained not only material success but an honored name as well.DAMASE BERGEVIN.Damase Bergevin, whose success from the time that he made his initial purchase of land in Walla Walla county was rapid and substantial, so that he became one of the prosperous farmers of this section of the state and at his death left his family in comfortable financial circumstances, was born near Quebec, Canada, on the 31st of March, 1840. He came of French ancestry. He was there reared with no educational advantages except those found in the school of experience. In 1865 he came to Walla Walla county, Washington, after spending a year in St. Joseph, Missouri. On reaching the northwest he located in what was then known as French Town, about nine miles west of Walla Walla, on the Walla Walla river. Two brothers had preceded him here and Mr. Bergevin worked for a time for one of them. Between the years 1875 and 1878 he was in the employ of Dr. Baker and built the narrow gauge railroad from Wallula to Walla Walla, this being the first railroad in the state of Washington. Mr. Bergevin cut the ties for this road and drove them down the Yakima river.It was not until 1880 that Mr. Bergevin made his first purchase of land. At that time he and his brother Clement bought an eighty acre farm and a year later the brothers divided their interest and from that time forward Mr. Bergevin operated independently. His success from that time forward was rapid and he proved not only a very enterprising and progressive farmer but a man of excellent ability in managing his financial interests. As his resources increased he kept adding to his holdings until he had acquired sixteen hundred and twenty-one acres of land in the home farm and also owned six hundred and forty acres five miles north of Walla Walla and a tract of one hundred and sixty acres at Rulo Station on the Northern Pacific Railroad. His investments were most judiciously made and his business affairs carefully managed. He seemed to readily recognize the essential in all business transactions and his sound judgment and indefatigable enterprise brought to him a very gratifying measure of success. In 1892 he was stricken with total blindness, but though thus incapacitated in a large measure for the management of his property interests he was surrounded by the loving care of his wife, while his four sonsassumed business duties and responsibilities and as the years have passed on more has been added to the family holdings until the Bergevin interests in Walla Walla county are most extensive.It was at St. Rose's Catholic Mission church at Frenchtown, July 3, 1881, that Mr. Bergevin was united in marriage to Miss Mary P. Allard, a native of St. Paul, Minnesota, who came to Walla Walla county with her parents, Oliver and Leo Cadie (Forest) Allard, in 1862. They crossed the plains with ox teams, meeting the usual experiences of such a trip, and at length located in the little hamlet of Walla Walla. The father was a carpenter by trade and assisted in large measure in the upbuilding of the town in the early days, erecting many of the first buildings in the city. Mrs. Bergevin is now residing in Walla Walla.To Mr. and Mrs. Bergevin were born six children: Leona P., now the wife of Philip Remillard, a farmer of Walla Walla county; Joseph Damase, who resides on the homestead farm; Arthur A., also engaged in farming; Clement A., who, lives on the old Bergevin home farm; Clarence C., who was married September 26, 1917, to Miss Lois Reavis, and is farming in Walla Walla county; and Augustine A., the wife of Elmer Markham, a farmer of Walla Walla county. There are also twelve grandchildren. At one time Arthur and Clarence Bergevin were engaged in the cultivation of thirteen hundred and fifty acres of land, owning five hundred and twenty acres of that amount, but have since divided their interests. The former was married September 27, 1916, to Miss Margaret Gohres. He is a member of the Loyal Order of Moose and, like the others of the family, is an adherent of the Catholic church. He has one of the best improved farms in the county on which is a large, substantial and beautiful residence with extensive farm buildings, all new, modern and thoroughly equipped. In a word, the name Bergevin has come to stand for progress and improvement in Walla Walla county.In his political views Mr. Bergevin of this review was a democrat and while he never took an active part in politics he was interested in the welfare and progress of his community and gave his support to all measures which he deemed of public benefit. He died on the 31st of July, 1911, honored and respected by all who knew him. His had been a most active and useful life and one which was crowned with a very substantial measure of prosperity. In fact his record should serve as a source of encouragement and inspiration to others, showing what may be accomplished through determined purpose, unfaltering industry and sound judgment.CHARLES MOORE.Charles Moore was an early settler of Walla Walla county and for a number of years was prominently identified with agricultural, commercial and transportation interests here, but in 1882 removed to Moscow, Idaho, where he spent much of the remainder of his life, but passed away in Walla Walla. His widow in 1907 resumed her residence in Walla Walla and is now well known in the city. The birth of Mr. Moore occurred in Ohio, October 1, 1841, his parents being Amos L. and Mary (Monroe) Moore, the latter's father being a cousin of President James Monroe. The father was born in Delaware and the mother in Pennsylvania, but they removed to Ohio at an early day and later to Wisconsin, whence in 1869 they came to Walla Walla county, Washington, where they resided until called to the home beyond. To them were born five children, of whom only one now survives, ex-Governor Miles C. Moore, of Walla Walla.

WILLIAM KIRKMANOn the 4th of February, 1867, in San Francisco, Mr. Kirkman was united in marriage to Miss Isabella Potts, a native of Ireland and a daughter of Robert and Agnes (Evans) Potts, who passed their entire lives on the Emerald isle. Mrs. Kirkman came to the United States in her girlhood, going to San Francisco to join her two sisters who were already residing there. The four surviving children of Mr. and Mrs. Kirkman are William H., Fannie A., Myrtle B. and Leslie G. The eldest son was horn in Idaho in May, 1868, and pursued his education in Whitman College and in the Boston University, from which he was graduated on the completion of a law course in the class of 1893 and then located for practice in Walla Walla, where he followed his profession for two years. He wedded Maud Ashley, who passed away in 1905, leaving one son, William Leslie, who was born in 1901. William H. Kirkman resided in Walla Walla and filled the office of clerk of the federal court for a year. He was also a member of the city council and a member of the school board. Fraternally he was connected with the Masons as a member of the York Rite and of the Mystic Shrine, and he also held membership with the Elks, in which he filled all of the chairs of the local lodge. Fannie A. is the wife of A. H. Reynolds, a prominent attorney and president of the Farmers Savings Bank of Walla Walla. The youngest son, Leslie G., was born in Walla Walla in June, 1881, and pursued his education in the schools of his native city. He married Mabelle E. Hawman and they have one child, Leslie Gilmore, who was born in 1916. Leslie G. Kirkman is an Elk and a Mason. He resides in Walla Walla and he and his brother are engaged in farming, the latter having retired from law practice, and they are now devoting their attention to the cultivation, development and further improvement of the old homestead property which was left by their father. Myrtle B. Kirkman resides with her mother in Walla Walla.William Kirkman was very prominent in civic affairs and exerted great influence on many interests that had to do with the upbuilding and progress of Walla Walla. His political allegiance was given to the republican party and he was a delegate to the national republican convention which was held in Minneapolis in 1892 and nominated Benjamin Harrison. He was appointed on the committee with William McKinley to notify Mr. Harrison of his nomination. Mr. Kirkman served on the first board of directors of the penitentiary upon its establishment and was a member of the board of education in Walla Walla, contributing much to the development of its school system. As previously stated, he was closely associated with the welfare and progress of Whitman College and was still a member of its board of directors at the time of his demise. He was a man of sterling qualities, possessing a kindly, genial disposition that endeared himto those who came in contact with him, and was charitable to a fault. Although not a member of any church, he was a liberal contributor to the support of various religious bodies of the city and no worthy cause appealed to him in vain. His interests were broad and embraced all that was worth while in life, yet his greatest care and his fullest devotion were always given to his home and family.CLEMENT O. BERGEVIN.Clement O. Bergevin, who is actively engaged in farming on section 35, township 7 north, range 34 east, was born on the old Bergevin homestead in this part of Walla Walla county, his natal day being March 16, 1891. He is a son of Damase and Mary P. (Allard) Bergevin, the former a native of Canada and of French extraction. He is mentioned elsewhere in this work.Clement O. Bergevin spent his youthful days in his father's home and acquired his education in the old French town school. In 1912 he began farming on his own account. He had been reared to that occupation and early became familiar with the best methods of tilling the soil and cultivating the crops. He thus brought broad experience to his work when he started out independently. He is now cultivating three hundred and twenty acres of land, upon which he now resides and which is a part of his father's estate. He also owns a third equity in a farm of three hundred and twenty acres elsewhere in the same township and a third equity in a five hundred acre tract. His farming interests are thus extensive and important and in all of his business affairs he displays marked energy and determination. His industry has enabled him to overcome obstacles and difficulties in his path and capable management has brought him substantial reward.On the 12th of May, 1915, Mr. Bergevin was united in marriage to Miss Hazel Johnson, of Walla Walla, a daughter of Edward Johnson, one of the prominent coal dealers of that city. Mr. Bergevin is a member of the Catholic church and is identified with the Knights of Columbus. He has comparatively few outside interests, however, preferring to concentrate his efforts and attention upon his business affairs. He is yet a young man who has only passed the twenty-sixth milestone on life's journey, but already he has made for himself a place in business circles that many a man of twice his years might well envy. He displays good judgment in all that he does and his careful management of his property and his progressive methods of farming are bringing to him merited success.NELSON McSHERRY.Nelson McSherry made for himself a creditable position in the business and political circles of Prescott, so that his death was the occasion of deep and widespread regret when on the 27th of July, 1916, he passed away. He was then but sixty-one years of age, his birth having occurred on the 31st of July, 1855. He was a native of Pennsylvania and a son of J. J. and Margaret(Mitchner) McSherry, both of whom were natives of the Keystone state. At an early day they removed with their family to Missouri, settling near Warrensburg, where they spent their remaining days, and there Nelson McSherry was reared and educated. He was a young man of twenty-five years when in 1880 he was united in marriage to Miss Mary E. Harvey, of Warrensburg, and to them were born five children: Lulu, who is the wife of J. D. Walter; Robert, who is living in Nevada; Joseph C., whose home is in Prescott; Urie D.; and Hester.Mr. and Mrs. McSherry began their domestic life in Missouri and there resided until 1888, when they came with their family to the northwest, establishing their home in Prescott, where Mr. McSherry embarked in business as proprietor of a small mercantile establishment. He adapted himself and his affairs to this part of the country and the conditions here existing and in the course of years he built up a growing and gratifying business. He closely studied the needs of the people in relation to the line of goods which he carried and by reason of his carefully selected stock, his reasonable prices and his straightforward dealing he won a very liberal and well deserved patronage, so that his business became one of the profitable enterprises of the town.In public affairs Mr. McSherry also took a deep and helpful interest. His fellow townsmen, recognizing his worth and ability, elected him the first mayor of Prescott. He was always ready to advance the interests of the town in every possible way and stood at all times for progress and improvement. Fraternally he was connected with the Woodmen of the World and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. He was reared a Methodist, but Mrs. McSherry is a member of the Presbyterian church. In 1913, because of failing health, he retired from active business and turned the management of his store over to his sons. Death called him in 1916 and at his passing deep regret was felt for he was a progressive business man, a loyal and patriotic citizen, a faithful friend and a devoted husband and father. He counted it his greatest happiness to provide for the welfare and comfort of his wife and children and in every relation of life he manifested those sterling qualities which command respect, confidence and honor in every land and clime.GEORGE E. LAMBDIN.George E. Lambdin has been actively and prominently identified with farming and stock raising interests in the northwest and is now carrying on general agricultural pursuits on section 22, township 7 north, range 32 east, in Walla Walla county. He was born on the 27th of September, 1870, in Montana, his parents being Samuel and Mary E. (Spade) Lambdin. The father was a native of Delaware, while the mother's birth occurred in Ohio. They were married in Iowa and at the time of the opening up of the gold fields in Montana, in 1865, they crossed the plains with ox teams to that state. The father worked in the mines in Deer Lodge valley and also in the Butte mines for six years and the family went through the usual experiences of the mining camp in the west. In 1872 they removed to Walla Walla county, Washington, where Mr. Lambdinpreempted a quarter section of land just across the line in Oregon, on the present site of Freewater. Ten years later he crossed the border into Washington and took up a homestead on section 30, township 7 north, range 32 east, in Walla Walla county. He then lived in this immediate vicinity until the time of his death and during the later years of his life made his home with his son, George E., whose name introduces this review. He passed away April 20, 1908.George E. Lambdin spent his youthful days upon the home farm and acquired a district school education. As early as his seventeenth year he began his career as a sheepman, starting with twenty-five head. While working for H. C. Adams as a sheep herder he accumulated a small number of sheep and his herd multiplied rapidly, so that about 1900 he was in a position to operate for himself on a larger scale and began independent activities. In the intervening years he has acquired from three to four thousand acres of grazing land and while he has recently sold off his own flock, he is associated with C. W. Stevelan in operating sheep interests under lease. In this connection he is among the most prominent sheepmen of the county. His business affairs are wisely and carefully directed. His long experience in connection with the sheep industry has taught him exactly how to care for his flock so that the best results will be achieved. There is no feature of sheep raising with which he is not familiar and his intelligently directed interests have brought very substantial results.In 1903 Mr. Lambdin was married to Miss Catherine A. Bradley, of Walla Walla county, and they have become the parents of three children: Samuel Allen, Mary Isabelle and Margaret Elizabeth. In politics Mr. Lambdin maintains an independent course, although he is inclined to give his support to the republican party. He belongs to Attalia Lodge, No. 294, I. O. O. F., of Attalia, Washington, and he also has membership with the Modern Woodmen of America and with the Royal Neighbors. He is true and loyal to the teachings of these organizations and exemplifies in his life the beneficent spirit which underlies the different societies. As a business man his position is one of prominence and his capability is widely recognized. He deserves much credit for what he has accomplished, for from an early age he has been dependent upon his own resources. As the years have gone by his labors have brought substantial results and he is today accounted one of the foremost sheepmen of the northwest.HON. ELGIN V. KUYKENDALL.Hon. Elgin V. Kuykendall is a member of the state senate of Washington and is one of Pomeroy's foremost attorneys. His record reflects credit and honor upon the district which has honored him. He has done splendid work both as lawyer and lawmaker and has become prominently connected with a profession which has ever been regarded as having much to do with the stability, prosperity and upbuilding of every district, standing as the stern conservator of the rights, privileges and liberties of the individual. His entire life has been spent in the west with its boundless opportunities and limitless resources, and with him opportunity has ever been the clarion call to action. He was born in Oakland, Oregon, October 8, 1870, a son of Dr. G. B. Kuykendall, a foremost citizen and leading pioneer physician of Pomeroy, who is mentioned at length on another page of this work.Elgin V. Kuykendall was educated in the public schools of Garfield county and has learned many valuable lessons in the school of experience, for he has ever been a close and attentive observer of men and of measures. Determining upon a professional career, he took up the study of law in 1892, pursuing his reading under the preceptorship of Samuel G. Cosgrove of Pomeroy, who was afterward governor of Washington. In 1894 Mr. Kuykendall was admitted to the bar but did not immediately take up the active practice of the profession but continued to give his attention to educational work, in which for some time he had been engaged. He had proven a capable teacher, imparting readily and clearly to others the knowledge that he had acquired, and in 1894 he was elected county superintendent of schools, in which office he served for one term. During the last year of his incumbency in that position he was appointed to fill out an unexpired term of six months as principal of the Pomeroy high school. In 1897, however, he concentrated his efforts and attention upon the practice of law and in 1898 was elected prosecuting attorney of Garfield county, in which position he served for one term. In 1900 he was elected mayor of Pomeroy and occupied that position for one term, giving to the city a businesslike and progressive administration characterized by needed reforms and measures of public improvement. At the same time he continued in the practice of law independently until February, 1898, when he entered into partnership with Judge Mack F. Gose under the firm name of Gose & Kuykendall, a relationship that existed until the appointment of the senior partner to the supreme bench in 1900. Mr. Kuykendall then practiced alone for two years and in 1911 the present law firm of Kuykendall & McCabe was formed, C. Alexander McCabe being admitted to a partnership that still maintains, the firm occupying now a very prominent position in the legal circles of the state. Their practice is extensive and of an important character and in the conduct thereof Mr. Kuykendall has displayed talent, learning, tact, patience and industry. His legal learning, his analytical mind, the readiness with which he grasps the points in an argument all combine to make him a strong advocate and a wise counselor. In connection with his brothers he has fourteen hundred acres of land held in equity.In 1896 Mr. Kuykendall was joined in wedlock to Miss Marguerite Scully, a daughter of Matthew Scully, who was one of the pioneer farmers of Asotin county, Washington, and now resides near Twin Falls, Idaho. Mr. and Mrs. Kuykendall have become the parents of four children, as follows: Matthew Lorraine, a student in the Washington State College; Ruth Lenore, who attended the State Normal School at Cheney, Washington, and is now engaged in teaching in Garfield county; Berdina Claire, a high school student at Pomeroy; and Jerome Kenneth, who is attending the graded schools.Both Mr. and Mrs. Kuykendall are members of the Methodist church and she is president of the Ladies' Aid Society of that church and also president of the Civic Improvement Club of Pomeroy. She is likewise a member of the Red Cross Society.In his political connection Mr. Kuykendall has always been a stalwart republican and in November, 1916, he was chosen to represent his district in the state senate, where he was made a member of a sub-committee for framing anew probate code. He has been a conspicuous figure in the legislative halls and has served repeatedly as chairman of the state central committee of the republican party, thus taking active part in guiding the destinies of his party in the northwest. While serving as mayor of Pomeroy he was instrumental in establishing the present city park, which the city purchased from Governor Cosgrove. Fraternally he is connected with Garfield Lodge, No. 25, K. P., and has been quite active in the affairs of that organization. He has been a member of the grand judiciary committee of the state for sixteen years, a longer period than that of any other incumbent in the position. He is also identified with the Woodmen of the World. His interests are broad and varied and in relation to the great sociological, economic and political problems of the country he keeps abreast with the best thinking men of the age. He is forceful and his ability and initiative have made him a dynamic power in the public life of southeastern Washington.J. U. STRAHM.At a period when the government owned most of the land in Washington and the work of progress and development seemed scarcely begun, J. U. Strahm and his wife came to Walla Walla county and cast in their lot with its pioneer settlers. They here underwent many of the hardships and privations incident to establishing a home on the frontier, but with resolute spirit they met all these and in the course of years came to enjoy the comforts of modern day civilization. Mr. Strahm was born in Switzerland, July 30, 1827, and was but six years of age when brought to America by his parents, the family home being established in Ohio. They afterward removed to Iowa and in 1849 J. U. Strahm removed to California, attracted by the discovery of gold on the Pacific coast. There he remained for three years, after which he returned to Missouri, where in 1864 he was united in marriage to Miss Mary Jane Farley, a daughter of Harvey and Elizabeth (Bruett) Farley, the former a native of Ohio, while the latter was born in Indiana. The father was killed while serving as a soldier in the Civil war and the mother afterward passed away in Tennessee.Following their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Strahm resolved to try their fortune in the far west and made their way across the country to Walla Walla county, where he took up a homestead near Dixie. There was little to indicate the wonderful changes which were still to occur as the white settlers penetrated into this region and reclaimed its rich resources for the purposes of civilization. The greater part of the land was still unclaimed and uncultivated and the most farsighted could scarcely have dreamed of what the future held in store for this rich district. Mr. Strahm became actively identified with its farming interests and bent his energies to the development of his place, bringing his fields under a high state of cultivation and therefore annually gathering rich harvests.To Mr. and Mrs. Strahm were born fourteen children, eleven of whom are now living: Ann J., the widow of John Byrd; William H., who is deceased; Elizabeth, the wife of John Glynn; Rosa D., the wife of Tom Hastings; Mary E., the wife of Eldon Buroker; Nora J., the wife of Joel Chitwood; John E.; Nannie V., who is the wife of Alfred Brown; Lucretia R., the wife of AlvinMcElvain; Viola, the wife of Fred Wells; Edna, at home; Alma B., the wife of Jene Green; and two who are deceased.The death of Mr. Strahm occurred February 11, 1895, at which time his remains were interred in the Dixie cemetery. He had been a devoted husband and father and had put forth every possible effort to aid in promoting the welfare and happiness of his family. His widow still occupies the old homestead, having eighty acres in her farm near Dixie, and the careful development and improvement of the property insures to her a substantial annual income.CHARLES C. LONEY.Prominent among the real estate men of Walla Walla is Charles C. Loney of the firm of Loney, Ginn & Kerrick. He was born in Toronto, Canada, on the 7th of June, 1876, a son of Charles and Charlotte (Cole) Loney, both of whom were natives of Belfast, Ireland. They came to Canada in childhood with their respective parents and were there reared to manhood and womanhood. In 1883 they came to the United States, arriving in Walla Walla on the 19th of August of that year. Here the father engaged in farming and became one of the leading agriculturists of Walla Walla county, having extensive interests. He acquired some two thousand acres of valuable land near the city and for a long period gave personal supervision to the further development and improvement of his farm. For several years prior to his death, however, he lived retired from active work, turning his farms over to his sons. He then took up his abode in the city and throughout his remaining days enjoyed a well earned rest. He died in 1907, having for a considerable period survived his wife, who passed away in 1902. Both were consistent members of the Baptist church and were earnest Christian people whose well spent lives are worthy of emulation.Charles C. Loney was educated in the Walla Walla high school, from which he was graduated with the class of 1896. Following the completion of his studies he cooperated with his father in the management and operation of his extensive farming interests until the father's retirement in 1901, at which time Charles C. Loney took charge of the farm, continuing its further cultivation and improvement until 1911. In the meantime he had purchased the property of his father and in the year designated he sold the home place and became a resident of Walla Walla, where he opened a real estate and loan office. He has since been prominently identified with that business and places many loans, while at the same time he negotiates many important realty transfers. Since 1911 he has purchased one hundred acres of land in Umatilla county, Oregon, and eight hundred acres in Columbia county, Washington. This property he still owns and rents. He also has three hundred and thirty acres on Dry creek, near Walla Walla, on which he is engaged in breeding and raising thoroughbred Percheron horses. He thus ranks with the leading agriculturists and stock raisers of this section of the state, while at the same time he has won for himself a most creditable position as a real estate dealer.On the 12th of January, 1917, Mr. Loney was united in marriage to Miss Hazel Velma Wright, of Walla Walla, a daughter of Robert Wright, who is anative of Umatilla county, Oregon, and for many years has been a prominent farmer of Walla Walla county.Mr. Loney holds membership in Enterprise Lodge, No. 2, I. O. O. F., and also in Walla Walla Encampment, No. 3. He votes with the republican party and is interested in all matters of progressive citizenship, cooperating in every plan and measure which he deems of value and benefit to the community. The greater part of his life has been spent in this section of the state and he has become imbued with the spirit of western enterprise that has led to the rapid and substantial upbuilding of this section of the state. This spirit has been the dominant factor in the attainment of his own success, a success that now places him with the men of affluence in his adopted county.HON. OLIVER T. CORNWELL.Hon. Oliver T. Cornwell is a dominant factor in the agricultural, commercial and financial circles of Walla Walla and the Inland Empire and has also exerted a marked influence over public thought and action as a member of the state senate, in which he is now representing the eleventh senatorial district. It was Mr. Cornwell who in large measure introduced the commission form of government here and in all his public work he has been actuated by a spirit of progress, improvement and of marked devotion to the general good. He is indeed prominent as a man whose constantly expanding powers have taken him from humble surroundings to the field of large enterprises and continually broadening opportunities. Bringing to bear a clear understanding that readily solves complex problems, he has been able to unite diverse interests into a harmonious whole with results that indicate his keen sagacity and unfaltering enterprise.Mr. Cornwell is a native son of Walla Walla county, his birth having occurred upon a farm six miles north of the city of Walla Walla on the 22nd of March, 1863. His father, James Madison Cornwell, became one of the Walla Walla pioneers of 1861 and is mentioned elsewhere in this work. The son was reared on the old homestead with the usual experiences of the farm bred boy and acquired his early education in the district schools, after which he became a student in Whitman College. When nineteen years of age he assumed the operation of the home place and continued to cultivate its fields for three years as a renter. After reaching his majority he went up into the Palouse country, in Whitman county, and there engaged in the raising of cattle and horses. He remained in Whitman county for eight years, after which he returned to Walla Walla and in company with H. S. Stott founded the drug house of Stott & Cornwell, with which he was identified for three years. He then resumed active connection with farming and stock raising interests and also began buying and shipping cattle, with which business he has since been closely associated, being one of the most prominent representatives of agricultural interests in this section of the state. He now owns fourteen hundred acres of wheat land in Walla Walla county and he also has heavy holdings in Alberta, Canada. Mr. Cornwell is a man of forcefulness and resourcefulness and has by no means limited his activities and energies to a single line. In fact, as extensive as are his agricultural activities, he has also made for himself a notable place in commercial and financial circles. About 1903 he was one of the dominant factors in the organization of the Walla Walla County Lumber Company, of which he became president, and in that capacity he has since continued, his intelligent direction of the affairs of the company being one of the most potent elements in his growing and continued success. He was also one of the organizers of the Peoples State Bank of Walla Walla and was made a member of its board of directors, which position he has since filled. He has also been identified with interests of a public and semi-public character that have had much to do with promoting general progress. He served for a number of years as president of the Farmers Union and while acting in that capacity the Walla Walla Farmers' Agency was organized, of which Mr. Cornwell was elected president, and reelection has continued him in that position to the present time.OLIVER T. CORNWELLMRS. OLIVER T. CORNWELLOn the 19th of August, 1888, occurred the marriage of Mr. Cornwell and Miss Ella Crowell, of Walla Walla, a daughter of Henry A. and Mary A. (Thurman) Crowell, who came to Walla Walla from Iowa in 1874. The mother was a niece of Allen G. Thurman, the great democratic leader, who was long known as "the Old Roman." To Mr. and Mrs. Cornwell have been born three children, Lessie L., Ethel L. and Olive E.Mr. Cornwell holds membership with the Masonic fraternity, belonging to Blue Mountain Lodge, No. 7, F. & A. M.; to Walla Walla Chapter, No. 1, R. A. M.; to Walla Walla Commandery, No. 2, K. T.; to Oriental Consistory, No. 1, A. & A. S. R, of Spokane; and to El Katif Temple; A. A. O. N. M. S., also of Spokane. He likewise has membership with Washington Lodge, No. 19, I. O. O. F., and with the Walla Walla Encampment of that order.His chief activity aside from business has been as a supporter of the republican party and a recognized leader in its ranks. The first position to which he was called was that of city councilman of Walla Walla in 1897. In 1900 he was chosen to represent his district in the Washington state senate, where he served for four years with honor and ability. In the November election of 1915 he was again chosen a member of the state senate and during his present term has been called upon for much important committee service. He is now a member of the committees on municipal corporations, on education, on industrial insurance, on irrigation and arid lands, public utilities, roads and bridges, rules and joint rules, banks and banking. He has done much to shape the policy of his party and for eight years was chairman of the republican county central committee and has been a member of the state central committee. It was Mr. Cornwell who organized and successfully carried through the campaign establishing the commission form of government in Walla Walla. His career has at all times reflected credit and honor upon the people that have honored him. The universality of his friendships interprets for us his intellectual hospitality and the breadth of his sympathy, for nothing is foreign to him that concerns his fellows. Anyone meeting Mr. Cornwell face to face would know at once that he is an individual embodying all the elements of what in this country we term a "square" man—one in whom to have confidence, a dependable man in any relation and any emergency. His quietude of deportment, his easy dignity, his frankness and cordiality of address, with the total absence of anything sinister or anything to conceal, foretoken a man who is ready to meet any obligation of life with theconfidence and courage that come of conscious personal ability, the right conception of things and an habitual regard for what is best in the exercise of human activities.SAMUEL LOVE GILBREATH.Samuel Love Gilbreath, an honored pioneer of Columbia county, Washington, became a resident of Old Walla Walla county when there were few white settlers within its limits, and took up a homestead three miles from the city of Dayton, although it was a number of years later that the town was laid out. He was a successful farmer, loyal friend and a public-spirited citizen, and his demise was the occasion of sincere regret. He was born in McMinn county, Tennessee, March 25, 1825, and was of Scotch descent. He was a representative of one of the old families of the south, being a grandson of Archibald Rowan, the third governor of Tennessee. His education was that afforded by the common schools and he remained in his native state until he became of age. He then determined to try his fortune in the far west and, crossing the plains, settled in Yamhill county, Oregon. For a number of years he farmed there and then went into the cattle business, which occupied his attention until 1855, when the Cayuse Indian war broke out. He enlisted for six months' service in the First Oregon Mounted Cavalry Regiment, which did good work in putting down the uprising both in Oregon and Washington. He was later for six months assistant wagon master and one of his duties was the gruesome task of hauling the bodies of the dead back to The Dalles, from which point they were shipped to relatives in the Willamette valley.Following his marriage in 1859 Mr. Gilbreath drove a herd of cattle to Old Walla Walla county, Washington. At that time the city of Walla Walla comprised but a very few buildings and the settlers in the county were few and far between. He took up a homestead three miles southwest of the present city of Dayton and built a log cabin with puncheon floors, which remained the family home for a number of years. There were many hardships to be endured in those early days but the lot of the pioneer was lightened by the spirit of hospitality and cooperation which prevailed. Travelers were welcomed at every log cabin and the service of each settler was at the disposal of the others. Mr. Gilbreath worked hard and gave careful attention to his business affairs and as time passed his resources increased. The first crude buildings upon his farm were at length replaced by substantial and commodious structures and the place was brought to a high state of development. At the time of his death he owned two hundred acres of fine orchard and alfalfa land, of which his widow has since sold one hundred and twenty acres, still owning eighty acres, which is valued at a high price per acre.Mr. Gilbreath was married in 1859, in Oregon, to Miss Margaret H. Fanning, of Albany, and they became the parents of thirteen children, ten of whom survive, namely: Nancy E., a teacher; Mary, the wife of J. O. Mattoon; Lee, a resident of Columbia county; Joseph, a resident of Seattle; Susie, the wife of E. E. Martin; Rose, who is teaching in Seattle; Charles, a resident of WallaWalla; Grace, the wife of T. O. Morrison; James, an instructor in the University of Washington; and Fred, a graduate of West Point and a captain in the United States army, now with the American embassy in London.Mr. Gilbreath was a prominent factor in public affairs in the early days and was chosen the first county commissioner of Old Walla Walla county and the first sheriff of Columbia county. He was a firm believer in the value of higher education and sent several of his children to college. In many ways his influence was felt in the advancement of his community, and personally he was held in the highest esteem because of his unswerving integrity and his great capacity for friendship. His wife had the distinction of being the first white woman to take up her residence in the four counties comprised within Old Walla Walla county, and she, too, proved her courage and perseverance in performing cheerfully and efficiently the many and arduous duties that fell to the lot of the pioneer wife and mother.CHRIS H. ROMMEL.Chris H. Rommel is residing on section 35, township 14 north, range 41 east, Garfield county, and is operating one thousand acres of land, being therefore entitled to rank among the extensive farmers of Garfield county. He grew to manhood in Manchester, Michigan, and is indebted for his education to its public schools. When nineteen years of age he started out in life for himself and in 1893 came to Garfield county, Washington. For some years he rented a farm, during which time he carefully saved his money with the purpose of buying land as soon as possible. At length he purchased his present home farm and has extended its boundaries until he now owns one thousand acres.Mr. Rommel was married in 1893 to Miss Anna Smith, a native of California, and they have three children: Fred C., a high school graduate; Mary P., who is also a high school graduate and is now teaching; and Ena M.THOMAS A. RUSSEL.Thomas A. Russel, deceased, was for a number of years actively engaged in farming on section 3, township 6 north, range 35 east, Walla Walla county, and met with gratifying success. He was born in Ohio, September 26, 1831, and there grew to manhood and received his education. In 1849 he accompanied his father John Russel, to California, crossing the great unsettled plains of the west by team, a long, tedious and dangerous journey, and again in 1852 he came to the coast by the overland route, but each time he returned to Ohio, where he maintained his residence until 1864. In that year he went with his bride by horse team to the Sacramento valley of California, where he lived for three years, during which time he taught school. They then removed to Bowling Green, Missouri, and for twenty-one years he was a resident of that state. During that time he engaged in the practice of law, successfully appearing in most of the more important trials of his district. In 1888, however, he removed withhis family to Walla Walla county, Washington and the remainder of his life was devoted to agricultural pursuits.Mr. Russel was married in 1864 in Ohio to Miss Mary C. Willman, also a native of that state. To their union were born ten children: John B. and William, both of whom are deceased; Frank; Thomas and Anna, who have passed away; Phoebe L.; Lincoln and Grant, twins, and Leslie, the two latter being deceased; and Joseph, who resides in Canada.Many interesting experiences came to Mr. Russel in his long life, and from the time he accompanied his father to the west in 1849 until his death he was much interested in this section of the country, even while still residing in the east or middle west. He found great pleasure in watching the process of development that has made the west a rival of the east in all that pertains to the highest civilization, and his influence was invariably cast on the side of progress. He passed away in January, 1901, and was laid to rest in the Mountain View cemetery.HON. F. M. WEATHERFORD.Hon. F. M. Weatherford is now living practically retired in Dayton but for many years was actively and extensively connected with farming interests and is still the owner of much valuable wheat land in this section of the state. Moreover, he has been prominently connected with public affairs and has been called upon to represent his district in the general assembly. He was born in Missouri, November 12, 1855, and is a son of Alfred H. and Sophia (Smith) Weatherford, both of whom were natives of Virginia and at an early day removed westward to Missouri, where their remaining days were passed. They had a family of nine children but only three are now living.While born in the middle west, Hon. F. M. Weatherford has spent the greater part of his life in the Pacific coast country. He crossed the plains in 1864, when a lad of but nine years, and became a resident of Linn county, Oregon. The trip was made with ox teams and wagon and he was six months en route, experiencing many hardships and privations as the party traveled over the barren plains, the hot sandy desert and across the mountain ranges. He took up his abode with a brother in Oregon and there remained until 1872, when he made his way northward to Walla Walla county, Washington. The following year, when a youth of eighteen, he rented a farm nine miles southwest of Dayton in the section known as Bundy Hollow. Later he bought land east of Dayton and occupied that farm for twenty years, his labors bringing about a marked transformation in the appearance of the place, for when the land came into his possession it was wild and undeveloped. With characteristic energy he began to cultivate it, breaking the furrows, planting the seed and in due time gathering rich harvests. Year by year the work of operating the farm was carried on and as his financial resources increased he made other investments in property, adding to his holdings from time to time until he is now the owner of sixteen hundred acres of fine wheat land in Columbia county. He was also at one time vice president of the Farmers Exchange at Waitsburg, which he aided in organizing. He has now put aside the more active work of the fields, leaving that to others, while he is enjoying a well earned rest, having taken up his abode in Dayton. His farm property yields to him a most gratifying annual income and his energy and sound business judgment have brought him success.HON. F. M. WEATHERFORDIn 1878 Mr. Weatherford was united in marriage to Miss Harriet A. Turner and they have become parents of five children: William M.; J. C., who is living upon the home farm; Mary S., who is the wife of Elmer Dunlap; Clara L., the wife of W. E. Bruce; and Arthur M., who is also upon the home farm.In his political affiliation Mr. Weatherford is a democrat and has taken an active part in advancing the interests of the organization. His fellow townsmen, appreciative of his worth and his devotion to the party, elected him to represent them for one term in the state legislature. The cause of education finds in him a stalwart champion and he has done effective work in behalf of the schools as a member of the school board. Fraternally he is connected with Dayton Lodge, No. 136, I. O. O. F., and both he and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church, South, and in its work take an active and helpful interest, doing all in their power to extend its growth and promote its purpose. Mr. Weatherford deserves much credit for what he has accomplished. He started out in the business world empty-handed, yet he has passed many another traveler on life's journey whose start was perhaps more advantageous. His success is the direct result of indefatigable industry intelligently directed, and, advancing year by year, he has become one of the prominent and prosperous men of Columbia county.HON. DAVID H. COX.Hon. David H. Cox has back of him an ancestry honorable and distinguished. Upon the family records appear the names of several who have been active in connection with framing state or national legislation. His own career has been cast in harmony with the family record and he is now a member of the state senate of Washington. For many years he has figured conspicuously and honorably in agricultural and commercial circles and is still actively identified with farming, his attention now being given to the management of his farm property. A native of eastern Tennessee, he was born December 28, 1865, a son of Elbert S. and Mary Louise (Beyers) Cox, both of whom were natives of Tennessee, where they spent their entire lives. The mother was a niece of John Severe, who was the first governor of Tennessee and a brother of her mother. Elbert S. Cox was for many years one of the leading merchants of Jonesboro, Tennessee, and was also extensively engaged in farming, having near the town a large tract of land which he successfully and wisely cultivated. He was also prominent in public affairs of the community and served for one term as member of congress from his district. He took a most active and helpful part in public thought and action and all that he did was characterized by a spirit of progressiveness that made him one of the most valued residents of Jonesboro. He passed away July 3, 1881, the day on which President Garfield was shot, in the Pennsylvania Railroad station at Washington, D. C.David H. Cox supplemented his public school education by study in Milliken College of eastern Tennessee and when nineteen years of age he started out in the business world on his own account, going to Texas, where he remained for a year. In 1885 he came to the northwest with Walla Walla as his destination. Here he arrived on the 6th of October of that year, possessed of courage and determination but of no funds. His financial condition rendered it imperative that he obtain immediate employment and he soon secured a position on a farm. He willingly accepted any employment that would yield him an honest living. He proved so capable in his farm work that his employer, recognizing his ability, offered to loan him the amount necessary to enable him to engage in business for himself. He took up the occupation of farming and for a considerable period rented land. Since that date he has never been without farm land of his own and for many years has been a most prominent figure in agricultural circles in this section of the state. In 1889, while still continuing in his farming operations, he became identified with the Pacific Coast Elevator Company and managed the business from 1889 until 1901. He then became associated with Walter S. Barnett and established the mercantile house of Cox, Barnett & Company, under which firm name they transacted an extensive grocery and hardware business, their sales amounting in later years to between twenty-five and thirty thousand dollars per month. They continued the business in a very successful manner until 1910, when Mr. Cox, in company with Hugh A. Martin, organized the Independent Grain Company, under which title they carried on business successfully for four years. Since then Mr. Cox has given his undivided attention to the management of his farming properties, which represent judicious investments and are the expression of well directed business ability.In 1890 Mr. Cox was united in marriage to Miss Decima E. Yeend, of Walla Walla county, a daughter of William Yeend, one of the pioneer farmers of this section of the state, who came to Washington from England in 1869. Mr. and Mrs. Cox have become the parents of two children: Arthur E., who is farming his father's land; and Dessie, at home.The family occupies a very enviable position in social circles and the hospitality of the best homes of Walla Walla is freely accorded them. Mr. Cox is a stalwart republican in his political views and has done much to further the interests and promote the success of the party. He served for several years as member of the Walla Walla city council and in 1908 was elected to the state senate, serving as a member of the upper house of the general assembly for four years. In 1912 he was a candidate for state treasurer, and while he carried thirty-four out of the thirty-eight counties, he was defeated by the Pierce county vote. In 1916 he was again elected to the state senate, in which capacity he is now serving. He is an earnest working member of the upper house, carefully considering the vital questions which come up for settlement, and his position in support or opposition of any measure is never an equivocal one. He stands loyally for what he believes to be the best interests of the commonwealth and in his political record he has ever been willing to subordinate personal interests to the general good. Mr. and Mrs. Cox are consistent and faithful members of the Methodist church and he has had the honor of representing his church at the general conference for three successive terms. He is chairman of theboard of trustees of the church and does everything in his power to advance its cause and extend its influence. While he has won notable success he has never made the attainment of wealth the sole ambition of his life. He has recognized his duties and obligations in other connections and has stood at all times for that which is most worth while in citizenship and in the moral development of the people at large. His life record is characterized by many honorable phases and should well serve as a source of encouragement to others and constitute an example which others may profitably follow. Coming to the west empty-handed, he has here intelligently directed his efforts with a result that has been most notable and gratifying, but winning prosperity has been but one feature of his activities, for his course has been so directed that he has gained not only material success but an honored name as well.DAMASE BERGEVIN.Damase Bergevin, whose success from the time that he made his initial purchase of land in Walla Walla county was rapid and substantial, so that he became one of the prosperous farmers of this section of the state and at his death left his family in comfortable financial circumstances, was born near Quebec, Canada, on the 31st of March, 1840. He came of French ancestry. He was there reared with no educational advantages except those found in the school of experience. In 1865 he came to Walla Walla county, Washington, after spending a year in St. Joseph, Missouri. On reaching the northwest he located in what was then known as French Town, about nine miles west of Walla Walla, on the Walla Walla river. Two brothers had preceded him here and Mr. Bergevin worked for a time for one of them. Between the years 1875 and 1878 he was in the employ of Dr. Baker and built the narrow gauge railroad from Wallula to Walla Walla, this being the first railroad in the state of Washington. Mr. Bergevin cut the ties for this road and drove them down the Yakima river.It was not until 1880 that Mr. Bergevin made his first purchase of land. At that time he and his brother Clement bought an eighty acre farm and a year later the brothers divided their interest and from that time forward Mr. Bergevin operated independently. His success from that time forward was rapid and he proved not only a very enterprising and progressive farmer but a man of excellent ability in managing his financial interests. As his resources increased he kept adding to his holdings until he had acquired sixteen hundred and twenty-one acres of land in the home farm and also owned six hundred and forty acres five miles north of Walla Walla and a tract of one hundred and sixty acres at Rulo Station on the Northern Pacific Railroad. His investments were most judiciously made and his business affairs carefully managed. He seemed to readily recognize the essential in all business transactions and his sound judgment and indefatigable enterprise brought to him a very gratifying measure of success. In 1892 he was stricken with total blindness, but though thus incapacitated in a large measure for the management of his property interests he was surrounded by the loving care of his wife, while his four sonsassumed business duties and responsibilities and as the years have passed on more has been added to the family holdings until the Bergevin interests in Walla Walla county are most extensive.It was at St. Rose's Catholic Mission church at Frenchtown, July 3, 1881, that Mr. Bergevin was united in marriage to Miss Mary P. Allard, a native of St. Paul, Minnesota, who came to Walla Walla county with her parents, Oliver and Leo Cadie (Forest) Allard, in 1862. They crossed the plains with ox teams, meeting the usual experiences of such a trip, and at length located in the little hamlet of Walla Walla. The father was a carpenter by trade and assisted in large measure in the upbuilding of the town in the early days, erecting many of the first buildings in the city. Mrs. Bergevin is now residing in Walla Walla.To Mr. and Mrs. Bergevin were born six children: Leona P., now the wife of Philip Remillard, a farmer of Walla Walla county; Joseph Damase, who resides on the homestead farm; Arthur A., also engaged in farming; Clement A., who, lives on the old Bergevin home farm; Clarence C., who was married September 26, 1917, to Miss Lois Reavis, and is farming in Walla Walla county; and Augustine A., the wife of Elmer Markham, a farmer of Walla Walla county. There are also twelve grandchildren. At one time Arthur and Clarence Bergevin were engaged in the cultivation of thirteen hundred and fifty acres of land, owning five hundred and twenty acres of that amount, but have since divided their interests. The former was married September 27, 1916, to Miss Margaret Gohres. He is a member of the Loyal Order of Moose and, like the others of the family, is an adherent of the Catholic church. He has one of the best improved farms in the county on which is a large, substantial and beautiful residence with extensive farm buildings, all new, modern and thoroughly equipped. In a word, the name Bergevin has come to stand for progress and improvement in Walla Walla county.In his political views Mr. Bergevin of this review was a democrat and while he never took an active part in politics he was interested in the welfare and progress of his community and gave his support to all measures which he deemed of public benefit. He died on the 31st of July, 1911, honored and respected by all who knew him. His had been a most active and useful life and one which was crowned with a very substantial measure of prosperity. In fact his record should serve as a source of encouragement and inspiration to others, showing what may be accomplished through determined purpose, unfaltering industry and sound judgment.CHARLES MOORE.Charles Moore was an early settler of Walla Walla county and for a number of years was prominently identified with agricultural, commercial and transportation interests here, but in 1882 removed to Moscow, Idaho, where he spent much of the remainder of his life, but passed away in Walla Walla. His widow in 1907 resumed her residence in Walla Walla and is now well known in the city. The birth of Mr. Moore occurred in Ohio, October 1, 1841, his parents being Amos L. and Mary (Monroe) Moore, the latter's father being a cousin of President James Monroe. The father was born in Delaware and the mother in Pennsylvania, but they removed to Ohio at an early day and later to Wisconsin, whence in 1869 they came to Walla Walla county, Washington, where they resided until called to the home beyond. To them were born five children, of whom only one now survives, ex-Governor Miles C. Moore, of Walla Walla.

WILLIAM KIRKMAN

WILLIAM KIRKMAN

WILLIAM KIRKMAN

On the 4th of February, 1867, in San Francisco, Mr. Kirkman was united in marriage to Miss Isabella Potts, a native of Ireland and a daughter of Robert and Agnes (Evans) Potts, who passed their entire lives on the Emerald isle. Mrs. Kirkman came to the United States in her girlhood, going to San Francisco to join her two sisters who were already residing there. The four surviving children of Mr. and Mrs. Kirkman are William H., Fannie A., Myrtle B. and Leslie G. The eldest son was horn in Idaho in May, 1868, and pursued his education in Whitman College and in the Boston University, from which he was graduated on the completion of a law course in the class of 1893 and then located for practice in Walla Walla, where he followed his profession for two years. He wedded Maud Ashley, who passed away in 1905, leaving one son, William Leslie, who was born in 1901. William H. Kirkman resided in Walla Walla and filled the office of clerk of the federal court for a year. He was also a member of the city council and a member of the school board. Fraternally he was connected with the Masons as a member of the York Rite and of the Mystic Shrine, and he also held membership with the Elks, in which he filled all of the chairs of the local lodge. Fannie A. is the wife of A. H. Reynolds, a prominent attorney and president of the Farmers Savings Bank of Walla Walla. The youngest son, Leslie G., was born in Walla Walla in June, 1881, and pursued his education in the schools of his native city. He married Mabelle E. Hawman and they have one child, Leslie Gilmore, who was born in 1916. Leslie G. Kirkman is an Elk and a Mason. He resides in Walla Walla and he and his brother are engaged in farming, the latter having retired from law practice, and they are now devoting their attention to the cultivation, development and further improvement of the old homestead property which was left by their father. Myrtle B. Kirkman resides with her mother in Walla Walla.

William Kirkman was very prominent in civic affairs and exerted great influence on many interests that had to do with the upbuilding and progress of Walla Walla. His political allegiance was given to the republican party and he was a delegate to the national republican convention which was held in Minneapolis in 1892 and nominated Benjamin Harrison. He was appointed on the committee with William McKinley to notify Mr. Harrison of his nomination. Mr. Kirkman served on the first board of directors of the penitentiary upon its establishment and was a member of the board of education in Walla Walla, contributing much to the development of its school system. As previously stated, he was closely associated with the welfare and progress of Whitman College and was still a member of its board of directors at the time of his demise. He was a man of sterling qualities, possessing a kindly, genial disposition that endeared himto those who came in contact with him, and was charitable to a fault. Although not a member of any church, he was a liberal contributor to the support of various religious bodies of the city and no worthy cause appealed to him in vain. His interests were broad and embraced all that was worth while in life, yet his greatest care and his fullest devotion were always given to his home and family.

CLEMENT O. BERGEVIN.

Clement O. Bergevin, who is actively engaged in farming on section 35, township 7 north, range 34 east, was born on the old Bergevin homestead in this part of Walla Walla county, his natal day being March 16, 1891. He is a son of Damase and Mary P. (Allard) Bergevin, the former a native of Canada and of French extraction. He is mentioned elsewhere in this work.

Clement O. Bergevin spent his youthful days in his father's home and acquired his education in the old French town school. In 1912 he began farming on his own account. He had been reared to that occupation and early became familiar with the best methods of tilling the soil and cultivating the crops. He thus brought broad experience to his work when he started out independently. He is now cultivating three hundred and twenty acres of land, upon which he now resides and which is a part of his father's estate. He also owns a third equity in a farm of three hundred and twenty acres elsewhere in the same township and a third equity in a five hundred acre tract. His farming interests are thus extensive and important and in all of his business affairs he displays marked energy and determination. His industry has enabled him to overcome obstacles and difficulties in his path and capable management has brought him substantial reward.

On the 12th of May, 1915, Mr. Bergevin was united in marriage to Miss Hazel Johnson, of Walla Walla, a daughter of Edward Johnson, one of the prominent coal dealers of that city. Mr. Bergevin is a member of the Catholic church and is identified with the Knights of Columbus. He has comparatively few outside interests, however, preferring to concentrate his efforts and attention upon his business affairs. He is yet a young man who has only passed the twenty-sixth milestone on life's journey, but already he has made for himself a place in business circles that many a man of twice his years might well envy. He displays good judgment in all that he does and his careful management of his property and his progressive methods of farming are bringing to him merited success.

NELSON McSHERRY.

Nelson McSherry made for himself a creditable position in the business and political circles of Prescott, so that his death was the occasion of deep and widespread regret when on the 27th of July, 1916, he passed away. He was then but sixty-one years of age, his birth having occurred on the 31st of July, 1855. He was a native of Pennsylvania and a son of J. J. and Margaret(Mitchner) McSherry, both of whom were natives of the Keystone state. At an early day they removed with their family to Missouri, settling near Warrensburg, where they spent their remaining days, and there Nelson McSherry was reared and educated. He was a young man of twenty-five years when in 1880 he was united in marriage to Miss Mary E. Harvey, of Warrensburg, and to them were born five children: Lulu, who is the wife of J. D. Walter; Robert, who is living in Nevada; Joseph C., whose home is in Prescott; Urie D.; and Hester.

Mr. and Mrs. McSherry began their domestic life in Missouri and there resided until 1888, when they came with their family to the northwest, establishing their home in Prescott, where Mr. McSherry embarked in business as proprietor of a small mercantile establishment. He adapted himself and his affairs to this part of the country and the conditions here existing and in the course of years he built up a growing and gratifying business. He closely studied the needs of the people in relation to the line of goods which he carried and by reason of his carefully selected stock, his reasonable prices and his straightforward dealing he won a very liberal and well deserved patronage, so that his business became one of the profitable enterprises of the town.

In public affairs Mr. McSherry also took a deep and helpful interest. His fellow townsmen, recognizing his worth and ability, elected him the first mayor of Prescott. He was always ready to advance the interests of the town in every possible way and stood at all times for progress and improvement. Fraternally he was connected with the Woodmen of the World and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. He was reared a Methodist, but Mrs. McSherry is a member of the Presbyterian church. In 1913, because of failing health, he retired from active business and turned the management of his store over to his sons. Death called him in 1916 and at his passing deep regret was felt for he was a progressive business man, a loyal and patriotic citizen, a faithful friend and a devoted husband and father. He counted it his greatest happiness to provide for the welfare and comfort of his wife and children and in every relation of life he manifested those sterling qualities which command respect, confidence and honor in every land and clime.

GEORGE E. LAMBDIN.

George E. Lambdin has been actively and prominently identified with farming and stock raising interests in the northwest and is now carrying on general agricultural pursuits on section 22, township 7 north, range 32 east, in Walla Walla county. He was born on the 27th of September, 1870, in Montana, his parents being Samuel and Mary E. (Spade) Lambdin. The father was a native of Delaware, while the mother's birth occurred in Ohio. They were married in Iowa and at the time of the opening up of the gold fields in Montana, in 1865, they crossed the plains with ox teams to that state. The father worked in the mines in Deer Lodge valley and also in the Butte mines for six years and the family went through the usual experiences of the mining camp in the west. In 1872 they removed to Walla Walla county, Washington, where Mr. Lambdinpreempted a quarter section of land just across the line in Oregon, on the present site of Freewater. Ten years later he crossed the border into Washington and took up a homestead on section 30, township 7 north, range 32 east, in Walla Walla county. He then lived in this immediate vicinity until the time of his death and during the later years of his life made his home with his son, George E., whose name introduces this review. He passed away April 20, 1908.

George E. Lambdin spent his youthful days upon the home farm and acquired a district school education. As early as his seventeenth year he began his career as a sheepman, starting with twenty-five head. While working for H. C. Adams as a sheep herder he accumulated a small number of sheep and his herd multiplied rapidly, so that about 1900 he was in a position to operate for himself on a larger scale and began independent activities. In the intervening years he has acquired from three to four thousand acres of grazing land and while he has recently sold off his own flock, he is associated with C. W. Stevelan in operating sheep interests under lease. In this connection he is among the most prominent sheepmen of the county. His business affairs are wisely and carefully directed. His long experience in connection with the sheep industry has taught him exactly how to care for his flock so that the best results will be achieved. There is no feature of sheep raising with which he is not familiar and his intelligently directed interests have brought very substantial results.

In 1903 Mr. Lambdin was married to Miss Catherine A. Bradley, of Walla Walla county, and they have become the parents of three children: Samuel Allen, Mary Isabelle and Margaret Elizabeth. In politics Mr. Lambdin maintains an independent course, although he is inclined to give his support to the republican party. He belongs to Attalia Lodge, No. 294, I. O. O. F., of Attalia, Washington, and he also has membership with the Modern Woodmen of America and with the Royal Neighbors. He is true and loyal to the teachings of these organizations and exemplifies in his life the beneficent spirit which underlies the different societies. As a business man his position is one of prominence and his capability is widely recognized. He deserves much credit for what he has accomplished, for from an early age he has been dependent upon his own resources. As the years have gone by his labors have brought substantial results and he is today accounted one of the foremost sheepmen of the northwest.

HON. ELGIN V. KUYKENDALL.

Hon. Elgin V. Kuykendall is a member of the state senate of Washington and is one of Pomeroy's foremost attorneys. His record reflects credit and honor upon the district which has honored him. He has done splendid work both as lawyer and lawmaker and has become prominently connected with a profession which has ever been regarded as having much to do with the stability, prosperity and upbuilding of every district, standing as the stern conservator of the rights, privileges and liberties of the individual. His entire life has been spent in the west with its boundless opportunities and limitless resources, and with him opportunity has ever been the clarion call to action. He was born in Oakland, Oregon, October 8, 1870, a son of Dr. G. B. Kuykendall, a foremost citizen and leading pioneer physician of Pomeroy, who is mentioned at length on another page of this work.

Elgin V. Kuykendall was educated in the public schools of Garfield county and has learned many valuable lessons in the school of experience, for he has ever been a close and attentive observer of men and of measures. Determining upon a professional career, he took up the study of law in 1892, pursuing his reading under the preceptorship of Samuel G. Cosgrove of Pomeroy, who was afterward governor of Washington. In 1894 Mr. Kuykendall was admitted to the bar but did not immediately take up the active practice of the profession but continued to give his attention to educational work, in which for some time he had been engaged. He had proven a capable teacher, imparting readily and clearly to others the knowledge that he had acquired, and in 1894 he was elected county superintendent of schools, in which office he served for one term. During the last year of his incumbency in that position he was appointed to fill out an unexpired term of six months as principal of the Pomeroy high school. In 1897, however, he concentrated his efforts and attention upon the practice of law and in 1898 was elected prosecuting attorney of Garfield county, in which position he served for one term. In 1900 he was elected mayor of Pomeroy and occupied that position for one term, giving to the city a businesslike and progressive administration characterized by needed reforms and measures of public improvement. At the same time he continued in the practice of law independently until February, 1898, when he entered into partnership with Judge Mack F. Gose under the firm name of Gose & Kuykendall, a relationship that existed until the appointment of the senior partner to the supreme bench in 1900. Mr. Kuykendall then practiced alone for two years and in 1911 the present law firm of Kuykendall & McCabe was formed, C. Alexander McCabe being admitted to a partnership that still maintains, the firm occupying now a very prominent position in the legal circles of the state. Their practice is extensive and of an important character and in the conduct thereof Mr. Kuykendall has displayed talent, learning, tact, patience and industry. His legal learning, his analytical mind, the readiness with which he grasps the points in an argument all combine to make him a strong advocate and a wise counselor. In connection with his brothers he has fourteen hundred acres of land held in equity.

In 1896 Mr. Kuykendall was joined in wedlock to Miss Marguerite Scully, a daughter of Matthew Scully, who was one of the pioneer farmers of Asotin county, Washington, and now resides near Twin Falls, Idaho. Mr. and Mrs. Kuykendall have become the parents of four children, as follows: Matthew Lorraine, a student in the Washington State College; Ruth Lenore, who attended the State Normal School at Cheney, Washington, and is now engaged in teaching in Garfield county; Berdina Claire, a high school student at Pomeroy; and Jerome Kenneth, who is attending the graded schools.

Both Mr. and Mrs. Kuykendall are members of the Methodist church and she is president of the Ladies' Aid Society of that church and also president of the Civic Improvement Club of Pomeroy. She is likewise a member of the Red Cross Society.

In his political connection Mr. Kuykendall has always been a stalwart republican and in November, 1916, he was chosen to represent his district in the state senate, where he was made a member of a sub-committee for framing anew probate code. He has been a conspicuous figure in the legislative halls and has served repeatedly as chairman of the state central committee of the republican party, thus taking active part in guiding the destinies of his party in the northwest. While serving as mayor of Pomeroy he was instrumental in establishing the present city park, which the city purchased from Governor Cosgrove. Fraternally he is connected with Garfield Lodge, No. 25, K. P., and has been quite active in the affairs of that organization. He has been a member of the grand judiciary committee of the state for sixteen years, a longer period than that of any other incumbent in the position. He is also identified with the Woodmen of the World. His interests are broad and varied and in relation to the great sociological, economic and political problems of the country he keeps abreast with the best thinking men of the age. He is forceful and his ability and initiative have made him a dynamic power in the public life of southeastern Washington.

J. U. STRAHM.

At a period when the government owned most of the land in Washington and the work of progress and development seemed scarcely begun, J. U. Strahm and his wife came to Walla Walla county and cast in their lot with its pioneer settlers. They here underwent many of the hardships and privations incident to establishing a home on the frontier, but with resolute spirit they met all these and in the course of years came to enjoy the comforts of modern day civilization. Mr. Strahm was born in Switzerland, July 30, 1827, and was but six years of age when brought to America by his parents, the family home being established in Ohio. They afterward removed to Iowa and in 1849 J. U. Strahm removed to California, attracted by the discovery of gold on the Pacific coast. There he remained for three years, after which he returned to Missouri, where in 1864 he was united in marriage to Miss Mary Jane Farley, a daughter of Harvey and Elizabeth (Bruett) Farley, the former a native of Ohio, while the latter was born in Indiana. The father was killed while serving as a soldier in the Civil war and the mother afterward passed away in Tennessee.

Following their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Strahm resolved to try their fortune in the far west and made their way across the country to Walla Walla county, where he took up a homestead near Dixie. There was little to indicate the wonderful changes which were still to occur as the white settlers penetrated into this region and reclaimed its rich resources for the purposes of civilization. The greater part of the land was still unclaimed and uncultivated and the most farsighted could scarcely have dreamed of what the future held in store for this rich district. Mr. Strahm became actively identified with its farming interests and bent his energies to the development of his place, bringing his fields under a high state of cultivation and therefore annually gathering rich harvests.

To Mr. and Mrs. Strahm were born fourteen children, eleven of whom are now living: Ann J., the widow of John Byrd; William H., who is deceased; Elizabeth, the wife of John Glynn; Rosa D., the wife of Tom Hastings; Mary E., the wife of Eldon Buroker; Nora J., the wife of Joel Chitwood; John E.; Nannie V., who is the wife of Alfred Brown; Lucretia R., the wife of AlvinMcElvain; Viola, the wife of Fred Wells; Edna, at home; Alma B., the wife of Jene Green; and two who are deceased.

The death of Mr. Strahm occurred February 11, 1895, at which time his remains were interred in the Dixie cemetery. He had been a devoted husband and father and had put forth every possible effort to aid in promoting the welfare and happiness of his family. His widow still occupies the old homestead, having eighty acres in her farm near Dixie, and the careful development and improvement of the property insures to her a substantial annual income.

CHARLES C. LONEY.

Prominent among the real estate men of Walla Walla is Charles C. Loney of the firm of Loney, Ginn & Kerrick. He was born in Toronto, Canada, on the 7th of June, 1876, a son of Charles and Charlotte (Cole) Loney, both of whom were natives of Belfast, Ireland. They came to Canada in childhood with their respective parents and were there reared to manhood and womanhood. In 1883 they came to the United States, arriving in Walla Walla on the 19th of August of that year. Here the father engaged in farming and became one of the leading agriculturists of Walla Walla county, having extensive interests. He acquired some two thousand acres of valuable land near the city and for a long period gave personal supervision to the further development and improvement of his farm. For several years prior to his death, however, he lived retired from active work, turning his farms over to his sons. He then took up his abode in the city and throughout his remaining days enjoyed a well earned rest. He died in 1907, having for a considerable period survived his wife, who passed away in 1902. Both were consistent members of the Baptist church and were earnest Christian people whose well spent lives are worthy of emulation.

Charles C. Loney was educated in the Walla Walla high school, from which he was graduated with the class of 1896. Following the completion of his studies he cooperated with his father in the management and operation of his extensive farming interests until the father's retirement in 1901, at which time Charles C. Loney took charge of the farm, continuing its further cultivation and improvement until 1911. In the meantime he had purchased the property of his father and in the year designated he sold the home place and became a resident of Walla Walla, where he opened a real estate and loan office. He has since been prominently identified with that business and places many loans, while at the same time he negotiates many important realty transfers. Since 1911 he has purchased one hundred acres of land in Umatilla county, Oregon, and eight hundred acres in Columbia county, Washington. This property he still owns and rents. He also has three hundred and thirty acres on Dry creek, near Walla Walla, on which he is engaged in breeding and raising thoroughbred Percheron horses. He thus ranks with the leading agriculturists and stock raisers of this section of the state, while at the same time he has won for himself a most creditable position as a real estate dealer.

On the 12th of January, 1917, Mr. Loney was united in marriage to Miss Hazel Velma Wright, of Walla Walla, a daughter of Robert Wright, who is anative of Umatilla county, Oregon, and for many years has been a prominent farmer of Walla Walla county.

Mr. Loney holds membership in Enterprise Lodge, No. 2, I. O. O. F., and also in Walla Walla Encampment, No. 3. He votes with the republican party and is interested in all matters of progressive citizenship, cooperating in every plan and measure which he deems of value and benefit to the community. The greater part of his life has been spent in this section of the state and he has become imbued with the spirit of western enterprise that has led to the rapid and substantial upbuilding of this section of the state. This spirit has been the dominant factor in the attainment of his own success, a success that now places him with the men of affluence in his adopted county.

HON. OLIVER T. CORNWELL.

Hon. Oliver T. Cornwell is a dominant factor in the agricultural, commercial and financial circles of Walla Walla and the Inland Empire and has also exerted a marked influence over public thought and action as a member of the state senate, in which he is now representing the eleventh senatorial district. It was Mr. Cornwell who in large measure introduced the commission form of government here and in all his public work he has been actuated by a spirit of progress, improvement and of marked devotion to the general good. He is indeed prominent as a man whose constantly expanding powers have taken him from humble surroundings to the field of large enterprises and continually broadening opportunities. Bringing to bear a clear understanding that readily solves complex problems, he has been able to unite diverse interests into a harmonious whole with results that indicate his keen sagacity and unfaltering enterprise.

Mr. Cornwell is a native son of Walla Walla county, his birth having occurred upon a farm six miles north of the city of Walla Walla on the 22nd of March, 1863. His father, James Madison Cornwell, became one of the Walla Walla pioneers of 1861 and is mentioned elsewhere in this work. The son was reared on the old homestead with the usual experiences of the farm bred boy and acquired his early education in the district schools, after which he became a student in Whitman College. When nineteen years of age he assumed the operation of the home place and continued to cultivate its fields for three years as a renter. After reaching his majority he went up into the Palouse country, in Whitman county, and there engaged in the raising of cattle and horses. He remained in Whitman county for eight years, after which he returned to Walla Walla and in company with H. S. Stott founded the drug house of Stott & Cornwell, with which he was identified for three years. He then resumed active connection with farming and stock raising interests and also began buying and shipping cattle, with which business he has since been closely associated, being one of the most prominent representatives of agricultural interests in this section of the state. He now owns fourteen hundred acres of wheat land in Walla Walla county and he also has heavy holdings in Alberta, Canada. Mr. Cornwell is a man of forcefulness and resourcefulness and has by no means limited his activities and energies to a single line. In fact, as extensive as are his agricultural activities, he has also made for himself a notable place in commercial and financial circles. About 1903 he was one of the dominant factors in the organization of the Walla Walla County Lumber Company, of which he became president, and in that capacity he has since continued, his intelligent direction of the affairs of the company being one of the most potent elements in his growing and continued success. He was also one of the organizers of the Peoples State Bank of Walla Walla and was made a member of its board of directors, which position he has since filled. He has also been identified with interests of a public and semi-public character that have had much to do with promoting general progress. He served for a number of years as president of the Farmers Union and while acting in that capacity the Walla Walla Farmers' Agency was organized, of which Mr. Cornwell was elected president, and reelection has continued him in that position to the present time.

OLIVER T. CORNWELL

OLIVER T. CORNWELL

OLIVER T. CORNWELL

MRS. OLIVER T. CORNWELL

MRS. OLIVER T. CORNWELL

MRS. OLIVER T. CORNWELL

On the 19th of August, 1888, occurred the marriage of Mr. Cornwell and Miss Ella Crowell, of Walla Walla, a daughter of Henry A. and Mary A. (Thurman) Crowell, who came to Walla Walla from Iowa in 1874. The mother was a niece of Allen G. Thurman, the great democratic leader, who was long known as "the Old Roman." To Mr. and Mrs. Cornwell have been born three children, Lessie L., Ethel L. and Olive E.

Mr. Cornwell holds membership with the Masonic fraternity, belonging to Blue Mountain Lodge, No. 7, F. & A. M.; to Walla Walla Chapter, No. 1, R. A. M.; to Walla Walla Commandery, No. 2, K. T.; to Oriental Consistory, No. 1, A. & A. S. R, of Spokane; and to El Katif Temple; A. A. O. N. M. S., also of Spokane. He likewise has membership with Washington Lodge, No. 19, I. O. O. F., and with the Walla Walla Encampment of that order.

His chief activity aside from business has been as a supporter of the republican party and a recognized leader in its ranks. The first position to which he was called was that of city councilman of Walla Walla in 1897. In 1900 he was chosen to represent his district in the Washington state senate, where he served for four years with honor and ability. In the November election of 1915 he was again chosen a member of the state senate and during his present term has been called upon for much important committee service. He is now a member of the committees on municipal corporations, on education, on industrial insurance, on irrigation and arid lands, public utilities, roads and bridges, rules and joint rules, banks and banking. He has done much to shape the policy of his party and for eight years was chairman of the republican county central committee and has been a member of the state central committee. It was Mr. Cornwell who organized and successfully carried through the campaign establishing the commission form of government in Walla Walla. His career has at all times reflected credit and honor upon the people that have honored him. The universality of his friendships interprets for us his intellectual hospitality and the breadth of his sympathy, for nothing is foreign to him that concerns his fellows. Anyone meeting Mr. Cornwell face to face would know at once that he is an individual embodying all the elements of what in this country we term a "square" man—one in whom to have confidence, a dependable man in any relation and any emergency. His quietude of deportment, his easy dignity, his frankness and cordiality of address, with the total absence of anything sinister or anything to conceal, foretoken a man who is ready to meet any obligation of life with theconfidence and courage that come of conscious personal ability, the right conception of things and an habitual regard for what is best in the exercise of human activities.

SAMUEL LOVE GILBREATH.

Samuel Love Gilbreath, an honored pioneer of Columbia county, Washington, became a resident of Old Walla Walla county when there were few white settlers within its limits, and took up a homestead three miles from the city of Dayton, although it was a number of years later that the town was laid out. He was a successful farmer, loyal friend and a public-spirited citizen, and his demise was the occasion of sincere regret. He was born in McMinn county, Tennessee, March 25, 1825, and was of Scotch descent. He was a representative of one of the old families of the south, being a grandson of Archibald Rowan, the third governor of Tennessee. His education was that afforded by the common schools and he remained in his native state until he became of age. He then determined to try his fortune in the far west and, crossing the plains, settled in Yamhill county, Oregon. For a number of years he farmed there and then went into the cattle business, which occupied his attention until 1855, when the Cayuse Indian war broke out. He enlisted for six months' service in the First Oregon Mounted Cavalry Regiment, which did good work in putting down the uprising both in Oregon and Washington. He was later for six months assistant wagon master and one of his duties was the gruesome task of hauling the bodies of the dead back to The Dalles, from which point they were shipped to relatives in the Willamette valley.

Following his marriage in 1859 Mr. Gilbreath drove a herd of cattle to Old Walla Walla county, Washington. At that time the city of Walla Walla comprised but a very few buildings and the settlers in the county were few and far between. He took up a homestead three miles southwest of the present city of Dayton and built a log cabin with puncheon floors, which remained the family home for a number of years. There were many hardships to be endured in those early days but the lot of the pioneer was lightened by the spirit of hospitality and cooperation which prevailed. Travelers were welcomed at every log cabin and the service of each settler was at the disposal of the others. Mr. Gilbreath worked hard and gave careful attention to his business affairs and as time passed his resources increased. The first crude buildings upon his farm were at length replaced by substantial and commodious structures and the place was brought to a high state of development. At the time of his death he owned two hundred acres of fine orchard and alfalfa land, of which his widow has since sold one hundred and twenty acres, still owning eighty acres, which is valued at a high price per acre.

Mr. Gilbreath was married in 1859, in Oregon, to Miss Margaret H. Fanning, of Albany, and they became the parents of thirteen children, ten of whom survive, namely: Nancy E., a teacher; Mary, the wife of J. O. Mattoon; Lee, a resident of Columbia county; Joseph, a resident of Seattle; Susie, the wife of E. E. Martin; Rose, who is teaching in Seattle; Charles, a resident of WallaWalla; Grace, the wife of T. O. Morrison; James, an instructor in the University of Washington; and Fred, a graduate of West Point and a captain in the United States army, now with the American embassy in London.

Mr. Gilbreath was a prominent factor in public affairs in the early days and was chosen the first county commissioner of Old Walla Walla county and the first sheriff of Columbia county. He was a firm believer in the value of higher education and sent several of his children to college. In many ways his influence was felt in the advancement of his community, and personally he was held in the highest esteem because of his unswerving integrity and his great capacity for friendship. His wife had the distinction of being the first white woman to take up her residence in the four counties comprised within Old Walla Walla county, and she, too, proved her courage and perseverance in performing cheerfully and efficiently the many and arduous duties that fell to the lot of the pioneer wife and mother.

CHRIS H. ROMMEL.

Chris H. Rommel is residing on section 35, township 14 north, range 41 east, Garfield county, and is operating one thousand acres of land, being therefore entitled to rank among the extensive farmers of Garfield county. He grew to manhood in Manchester, Michigan, and is indebted for his education to its public schools. When nineteen years of age he started out in life for himself and in 1893 came to Garfield county, Washington. For some years he rented a farm, during which time he carefully saved his money with the purpose of buying land as soon as possible. At length he purchased his present home farm and has extended its boundaries until he now owns one thousand acres.

Mr. Rommel was married in 1893 to Miss Anna Smith, a native of California, and they have three children: Fred C., a high school graduate; Mary P., who is also a high school graduate and is now teaching; and Ena M.

THOMAS A. RUSSEL.

Thomas A. Russel, deceased, was for a number of years actively engaged in farming on section 3, township 6 north, range 35 east, Walla Walla county, and met with gratifying success. He was born in Ohio, September 26, 1831, and there grew to manhood and received his education. In 1849 he accompanied his father John Russel, to California, crossing the great unsettled plains of the west by team, a long, tedious and dangerous journey, and again in 1852 he came to the coast by the overland route, but each time he returned to Ohio, where he maintained his residence until 1864. In that year he went with his bride by horse team to the Sacramento valley of California, where he lived for three years, during which time he taught school. They then removed to Bowling Green, Missouri, and for twenty-one years he was a resident of that state. During that time he engaged in the practice of law, successfully appearing in most of the more important trials of his district. In 1888, however, he removed withhis family to Walla Walla county, Washington and the remainder of his life was devoted to agricultural pursuits.

Mr. Russel was married in 1864 in Ohio to Miss Mary C. Willman, also a native of that state. To their union were born ten children: John B. and William, both of whom are deceased; Frank; Thomas and Anna, who have passed away; Phoebe L.; Lincoln and Grant, twins, and Leslie, the two latter being deceased; and Joseph, who resides in Canada.

Many interesting experiences came to Mr. Russel in his long life, and from the time he accompanied his father to the west in 1849 until his death he was much interested in this section of the country, even while still residing in the east or middle west. He found great pleasure in watching the process of development that has made the west a rival of the east in all that pertains to the highest civilization, and his influence was invariably cast on the side of progress. He passed away in January, 1901, and was laid to rest in the Mountain View cemetery.

HON. F. M. WEATHERFORD.

Hon. F. M. Weatherford is now living practically retired in Dayton but for many years was actively and extensively connected with farming interests and is still the owner of much valuable wheat land in this section of the state. Moreover, he has been prominently connected with public affairs and has been called upon to represent his district in the general assembly. He was born in Missouri, November 12, 1855, and is a son of Alfred H. and Sophia (Smith) Weatherford, both of whom were natives of Virginia and at an early day removed westward to Missouri, where their remaining days were passed. They had a family of nine children but only three are now living.

While born in the middle west, Hon. F. M. Weatherford has spent the greater part of his life in the Pacific coast country. He crossed the plains in 1864, when a lad of but nine years, and became a resident of Linn county, Oregon. The trip was made with ox teams and wagon and he was six months en route, experiencing many hardships and privations as the party traveled over the barren plains, the hot sandy desert and across the mountain ranges. He took up his abode with a brother in Oregon and there remained until 1872, when he made his way northward to Walla Walla county, Washington. The following year, when a youth of eighteen, he rented a farm nine miles southwest of Dayton in the section known as Bundy Hollow. Later he bought land east of Dayton and occupied that farm for twenty years, his labors bringing about a marked transformation in the appearance of the place, for when the land came into his possession it was wild and undeveloped. With characteristic energy he began to cultivate it, breaking the furrows, planting the seed and in due time gathering rich harvests. Year by year the work of operating the farm was carried on and as his financial resources increased he made other investments in property, adding to his holdings from time to time until he is now the owner of sixteen hundred acres of fine wheat land in Columbia county. He was also at one time vice president of the Farmers Exchange at Waitsburg, which he aided in organizing. He has now put aside the more active work of the fields, leaving that to others, while he is enjoying a well earned rest, having taken up his abode in Dayton. His farm property yields to him a most gratifying annual income and his energy and sound business judgment have brought him success.

HON. F. M. WEATHERFORD

HON. F. M. WEATHERFORD

HON. F. M. WEATHERFORD

In 1878 Mr. Weatherford was united in marriage to Miss Harriet A. Turner and they have become parents of five children: William M.; J. C., who is living upon the home farm; Mary S., who is the wife of Elmer Dunlap; Clara L., the wife of W. E. Bruce; and Arthur M., who is also upon the home farm.

In his political affiliation Mr. Weatherford is a democrat and has taken an active part in advancing the interests of the organization. His fellow townsmen, appreciative of his worth and his devotion to the party, elected him to represent them for one term in the state legislature. The cause of education finds in him a stalwart champion and he has done effective work in behalf of the schools as a member of the school board. Fraternally he is connected with Dayton Lodge, No. 136, I. O. O. F., and both he and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal church, South, and in its work take an active and helpful interest, doing all in their power to extend its growth and promote its purpose. Mr. Weatherford deserves much credit for what he has accomplished. He started out in the business world empty-handed, yet he has passed many another traveler on life's journey whose start was perhaps more advantageous. His success is the direct result of indefatigable industry intelligently directed, and, advancing year by year, he has become one of the prominent and prosperous men of Columbia county.

HON. DAVID H. COX.

Hon. David H. Cox has back of him an ancestry honorable and distinguished. Upon the family records appear the names of several who have been active in connection with framing state or national legislation. His own career has been cast in harmony with the family record and he is now a member of the state senate of Washington. For many years he has figured conspicuously and honorably in agricultural and commercial circles and is still actively identified with farming, his attention now being given to the management of his farm property. A native of eastern Tennessee, he was born December 28, 1865, a son of Elbert S. and Mary Louise (Beyers) Cox, both of whom were natives of Tennessee, where they spent their entire lives. The mother was a niece of John Severe, who was the first governor of Tennessee and a brother of her mother. Elbert S. Cox was for many years one of the leading merchants of Jonesboro, Tennessee, and was also extensively engaged in farming, having near the town a large tract of land which he successfully and wisely cultivated. He was also prominent in public affairs of the community and served for one term as member of congress from his district. He took a most active and helpful part in public thought and action and all that he did was characterized by a spirit of progressiveness that made him one of the most valued residents of Jonesboro. He passed away July 3, 1881, the day on which President Garfield was shot, in the Pennsylvania Railroad station at Washington, D. C.

David H. Cox supplemented his public school education by study in Milliken College of eastern Tennessee and when nineteen years of age he started out in the business world on his own account, going to Texas, where he remained for a year. In 1885 he came to the northwest with Walla Walla as his destination. Here he arrived on the 6th of October of that year, possessed of courage and determination but of no funds. His financial condition rendered it imperative that he obtain immediate employment and he soon secured a position on a farm. He willingly accepted any employment that would yield him an honest living. He proved so capable in his farm work that his employer, recognizing his ability, offered to loan him the amount necessary to enable him to engage in business for himself. He took up the occupation of farming and for a considerable period rented land. Since that date he has never been without farm land of his own and for many years has been a most prominent figure in agricultural circles in this section of the state. In 1889, while still continuing in his farming operations, he became identified with the Pacific Coast Elevator Company and managed the business from 1889 until 1901. He then became associated with Walter S. Barnett and established the mercantile house of Cox, Barnett & Company, under which firm name they transacted an extensive grocery and hardware business, their sales amounting in later years to between twenty-five and thirty thousand dollars per month. They continued the business in a very successful manner until 1910, when Mr. Cox, in company with Hugh A. Martin, organized the Independent Grain Company, under which title they carried on business successfully for four years. Since then Mr. Cox has given his undivided attention to the management of his farming properties, which represent judicious investments and are the expression of well directed business ability.

In 1890 Mr. Cox was united in marriage to Miss Decima E. Yeend, of Walla Walla county, a daughter of William Yeend, one of the pioneer farmers of this section of the state, who came to Washington from England in 1869. Mr. and Mrs. Cox have become the parents of two children: Arthur E., who is farming his father's land; and Dessie, at home.

The family occupies a very enviable position in social circles and the hospitality of the best homes of Walla Walla is freely accorded them. Mr. Cox is a stalwart republican in his political views and has done much to further the interests and promote the success of the party. He served for several years as member of the Walla Walla city council and in 1908 was elected to the state senate, serving as a member of the upper house of the general assembly for four years. In 1912 he was a candidate for state treasurer, and while he carried thirty-four out of the thirty-eight counties, he was defeated by the Pierce county vote. In 1916 he was again elected to the state senate, in which capacity he is now serving. He is an earnest working member of the upper house, carefully considering the vital questions which come up for settlement, and his position in support or opposition of any measure is never an equivocal one. He stands loyally for what he believes to be the best interests of the commonwealth and in his political record he has ever been willing to subordinate personal interests to the general good. Mr. and Mrs. Cox are consistent and faithful members of the Methodist church and he has had the honor of representing his church at the general conference for three successive terms. He is chairman of theboard of trustees of the church and does everything in his power to advance its cause and extend its influence. While he has won notable success he has never made the attainment of wealth the sole ambition of his life. He has recognized his duties and obligations in other connections and has stood at all times for that which is most worth while in citizenship and in the moral development of the people at large. His life record is characterized by many honorable phases and should well serve as a source of encouragement to others and constitute an example which others may profitably follow. Coming to the west empty-handed, he has here intelligently directed his efforts with a result that has been most notable and gratifying, but winning prosperity has been but one feature of his activities, for his course has been so directed that he has gained not only material success but an honored name as well.

DAMASE BERGEVIN.

Damase Bergevin, whose success from the time that he made his initial purchase of land in Walla Walla county was rapid and substantial, so that he became one of the prosperous farmers of this section of the state and at his death left his family in comfortable financial circumstances, was born near Quebec, Canada, on the 31st of March, 1840. He came of French ancestry. He was there reared with no educational advantages except those found in the school of experience. In 1865 he came to Walla Walla county, Washington, after spending a year in St. Joseph, Missouri. On reaching the northwest he located in what was then known as French Town, about nine miles west of Walla Walla, on the Walla Walla river. Two brothers had preceded him here and Mr. Bergevin worked for a time for one of them. Between the years 1875 and 1878 he was in the employ of Dr. Baker and built the narrow gauge railroad from Wallula to Walla Walla, this being the first railroad in the state of Washington. Mr. Bergevin cut the ties for this road and drove them down the Yakima river.

It was not until 1880 that Mr. Bergevin made his first purchase of land. At that time he and his brother Clement bought an eighty acre farm and a year later the brothers divided their interest and from that time forward Mr. Bergevin operated independently. His success from that time forward was rapid and he proved not only a very enterprising and progressive farmer but a man of excellent ability in managing his financial interests. As his resources increased he kept adding to his holdings until he had acquired sixteen hundred and twenty-one acres of land in the home farm and also owned six hundred and forty acres five miles north of Walla Walla and a tract of one hundred and sixty acres at Rulo Station on the Northern Pacific Railroad. His investments were most judiciously made and his business affairs carefully managed. He seemed to readily recognize the essential in all business transactions and his sound judgment and indefatigable enterprise brought to him a very gratifying measure of success. In 1892 he was stricken with total blindness, but though thus incapacitated in a large measure for the management of his property interests he was surrounded by the loving care of his wife, while his four sonsassumed business duties and responsibilities and as the years have passed on more has been added to the family holdings until the Bergevin interests in Walla Walla county are most extensive.

It was at St. Rose's Catholic Mission church at Frenchtown, July 3, 1881, that Mr. Bergevin was united in marriage to Miss Mary P. Allard, a native of St. Paul, Minnesota, who came to Walla Walla county with her parents, Oliver and Leo Cadie (Forest) Allard, in 1862. They crossed the plains with ox teams, meeting the usual experiences of such a trip, and at length located in the little hamlet of Walla Walla. The father was a carpenter by trade and assisted in large measure in the upbuilding of the town in the early days, erecting many of the first buildings in the city. Mrs. Bergevin is now residing in Walla Walla.

To Mr. and Mrs. Bergevin were born six children: Leona P., now the wife of Philip Remillard, a farmer of Walla Walla county; Joseph Damase, who resides on the homestead farm; Arthur A., also engaged in farming; Clement A., who, lives on the old Bergevin home farm; Clarence C., who was married September 26, 1917, to Miss Lois Reavis, and is farming in Walla Walla county; and Augustine A., the wife of Elmer Markham, a farmer of Walla Walla county. There are also twelve grandchildren. At one time Arthur and Clarence Bergevin were engaged in the cultivation of thirteen hundred and fifty acres of land, owning five hundred and twenty acres of that amount, but have since divided their interests. The former was married September 27, 1916, to Miss Margaret Gohres. He is a member of the Loyal Order of Moose and, like the others of the family, is an adherent of the Catholic church. He has one of the best improved farms in the county on which is a large, substantial and beautiful residence with extensive farm buildings, all new, modern and thoroughly equipped. In a word, the name Bergevin has come to stand for progress and improvement in Walla Walla county.

In his political views Mr. Bergevin of this review was a democrat and while he never took an active part in politics he was interested in the welfare and progress of his community and gave his support to all measures which he deemed of public benefit. He died on the 31st of July, 1911, honored and respected by all who knew him. His had been a most active and useful life and one which was crowned with a very substantial measure of prosperity. In fact his record should serve as a source of encouragement and inspiration to others, showing what may be accomplished through determined purpose, unfaltering industry and sound judgment.

CHARLES MOORE.

Charles Moore was an early settler of Walla Walla county and for a number of years was prominently identified with agricultural, commercial and transportation interests here, but in 1882 removed to Moscow, Idaho, where he spent much of the remainder of his life, but passed away in Walla Walla. His widow in 1907 resumed her residence in Walla Walla and is now well known in the city. The birth of Mr. Moore occurred in Ohio, October 1, 1841, his parents being Amos L. and Mary (Monroe) Moore, the latter's father being a cousin of President James Monroe. The father was born in Delaware and the mother in Pennsylvania, but they removed to Ohio at an early day and later to Wisconsin, whence in 1869 they came to Walla Walla county, Washington, where they resided until called to the home beyond. To them were born five children, of whom only one now survives, ex-Governor Miles C. Moore, of Walla Walla.


Back to IndexNext