Mary Madeline Dougan

Notes:

CENSUS RECORDS

1900 Census
Name: Mary M Boujan [May M Dougan]
Age: 17
Birth Date: Mar 1883
Birthplace: Washington
Home in 1900: Tacoma Ward 7, Pierce, Washington
Race: White
Gender: Female
Relation to Head of House: Daughter (Child)
Marital Status: Single
Father's name: James Boujan [Dougan]
Father's Birthplace: Pennsylvania
Mother's name: Mary A Boujan [Dougan]
Mother's Birthplace: Oregon
Household Members:
James Dougan 58
Mary A Dougan 46
Herbert C Sears 25 [half brother]
Mary M Dougan 17

Mary married M. M. Adams. [Group Sheet]

Notes:

CENSUS RECORDS

1900 Census
Name: James Boujan [James Dougan]
Age: 58
Birth Date: Dec 1841
Birthplace: Pennsylvania
Home in 1900: Tacoma Ward 7, Pierce, Washington
Race: White
Gender: Male
Relation to Head of House: Head
Marital Status: Married
Spouse's Name: Mary A Boujan [Dougan]
Marriage Year: 1883
Years Married: 17
Father's Birthplace: Pennsylvania
Mother's Birthplace: Ireland
Household Members:
James Dougan 58
Mary A Dougan 46
Herbert C Sears 25 [stepson]
Mary M Dougan 17

History of the Columbia River Valley From The Dalles to the Sea, Vol. II, Pages 440-443

File at: http://files.usgwarchives.net/or/multnomah/bios/dougan444gbs.txt

James Madison Dougan, whose name was inseparably interwoven with the history of the northwest, was long prominent and active in business circles of Portland as a contractor, his labors being attended with substantial success. From the age of thirteen he was dependent entirely upon his own resources, and though he had little opportunity to attend school and few advantages such as most youths enjoy, he nevertheless worked his way steadily upward until his position was one of prominence.

Mr. Dougan was born in Tylersburg, Pennsylvania, November 18, 1843, his parents being Josiah and Mary Ann (Rogers) Dougan. The father, who was a blacksmith by trade, was twice married and became the father of twenty-one children.

During the period of his youth, James M. Dougan accompanied his parents on their removal from Tylersburg to Clarion, Pennsylvania. He never attended school except for six months, but throughout his entire life he was continually learning from experience and contact with men, thus gaining broad general information and becoming especially proficient in business methods. At the age of thirteen he began earning his own living and from that time forward he carved out his own way, carrying on to the end, although he was eighty-five years of age at the time of his death, which occurred April 12, 1928. When a young lad he drove cattle and later he became a stage driver, while at one time he was with a circus. In a word, he made a dollar wherever possible, and though hardships and privations were his at times, he never failed to provide for his daily needs.

At length, after various vicissitudes, he found himself in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where he learned the carpenter's trade. In 1878 he went to Leadville, Colorado, where he followed mining until 1880, when he became a contractor in Santa Fe, New Mexico. The following year he engaged in contracting in Albuquerque and followed the same business in Los Angeles,California, in 1882.

The year 1883 witnessed Mr. Dougan's arrival in the northwest and his settlement at Tacoma, which was then a mere village. He continued there until 1918 and no one was more closely associated with the development and improvement of the city, many of its finest buildings still standing as monuments to his capability and handiwork. He was not only the builder but also owned a number of these. In the widespread financial panic in the latter ?80's he lost everything, after which he went to British Columbia, where he filled several government jobs. He was undeterred by difficulties, which he readily overcame through determined and persistent effort, and for years he was recognized as one of the foremost contractors on the coast.

In 1910 he completed the big post office in Los Angeles, which was a four-year job, and later he built the government dry dock at the Bremerton navy yard. It was about sixty years prior to his death that he entered the employ of the Sound Construction Company of Seattle and from that time forward his progress was continuous. It was previous to this that he was in partnership with John Hastie and later their business was merged with that of the Sound Construction Company.

About 1908 Mr. Dougan formed the firm of Dougan & Chrisman, with offices in Portland and Seattle, Mr. Dougan directing the Portland office, with his partner at the Seattle office. He was the builder in Portland of the Elks temple, the Masonic temple, the County Hospital, the United States National Bank building, the Pacific Telephone & Telegraph Company building, Benson Hotel, Reed Colleges, Bank of California and other structures.

He was also president of the H. S. & D. Investment Company, which a short time prior to his demise began excavating for the ten-story Medical-Dental building at Eleventh and Taylor streets, and his firm also had the contract for the erection of the Hill Military Academy at Rocky Butte. In Seattle the firm of Dougan & Chrisman erected the Virginia Mason Hospital, the Garfield school and several of the state university buildings. They also built branches at Arleta and Irvington for the Pacific Telephone & Telegraph Company. In January, 1928, Mr. Chrisman sold out and Mr. Dougan admitted to a partnership Herbert Hammond, who had been secretary with him for many years.

It was characteristic of him to recognize efficiency and faithfulness on the part of those who had served him and at all times he was just and generous to employes. He was extremely interested in the project of the Medical-Dental building, which he planned should be a monument to his memory. So efficiently was the project being put forward that before the first earth was turned nearly ninety per cent of the space was rented, and Mr. Dougan exercised the utmost care as to the kind of tenants, none but the most reputable professional men being permitted to rent space.

Since her husband's death Mrs. Dougan has been carrying on the work of erecting this building. He always consulted her about his business interests and the fact that she comes from a family of contractors further leads to her efficiency, as from her early life she heard construction problems discussed.

Mr. Dougan was married twice. He first wedded Mrs. Mary Ann Sears, nee Levens, whose people were Oregon pioneers, settling at Dallas. Mr. and Mrs. Dougan had one daughter, Madeline, now Mrs. M. M. Adams, of Tacoma, Washington, and a foster daughter whom he reared as his own ? Esther, now Mrs. Herbert Miller of Oroville, California. Several years after the death of his first wife Mr. Dougan married Mrs. Nettie Williams, of San Francisco, a daughter of Charles Greene, a building contractor of that city.

Mr. Dougan ever concentrated his interest and activities upon business and few men have occupied so high a position in building circles. He was a past president of the Portland chapter and also of the Pacific Northwest branch of the Associated General Contractors of America and he belonged to the Builders' Exchange, whose president at the time of his death said: "The passing this morning of Mr. Dougan, the veteran master builder of the Pacific coast, certainly means a tremendous loss to all of us. He was an old-timer in the Builders' Exchange and one of the active organizers of the Associated General Contractors of America, a man whose personal qualities endeared him to his associates and friends."

That he was appreciative of the social amenities of life was indicated by his membership with the Odd Fellows and with the Elks. He had membership in the National Chamber of Commerce, attending its meeting in 1927. One of his marked characteristics was his concentration and when bent upon the accomplishment of one object, be it little or great, he would never stop to engage in other interests until the first was completed. In life he learned many valuable lessons ? lessons that taught him true values and the worth of integrity, steadfastness and honorable manhood. All these he exemplified in his career and no man more fully merited or received the respect and confidence of those with whom he was associated.



Buried:
Grave location, portrait, biography, and tombstone photo:
http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GRid=86194234

James married Mary Anna LEVENS 1883. Mary (daughter of Isaac LEVENS and Ellen (Eleanor) S. WHITEAKER) was born Jun., 1853, Oregon; died 24 Oct 1907, Tacoma, Pierece Co. WA; was buried , Tacoma Cemetery ,Tacoma, Pierce Co. WA. [Group Sheet]

Notes:

CENSUS RECORDS

1860 Census
Name: W A Levens [M A Levens]
Age in 1860: 7
Birth Year: abt 1853
Birthplace: Oregon
Home in 1860: Dallas, Polk, Oregon
Gender: Female
Post Office: Dallas
Household Members:
Isaac Levens 37
Ellen Levens 26
W A Levens 7
L E Levens 4

1870 Census
Name: Sunie Levins [Annie]
Age in 1870: 17
Birth Year: abt 1853
Birthplace: Oregon
Home in 1870: Dallas, Polk, Oregon
Race: White
Gender: Female
Post Office: Dallas
Household Members:
Isaac Levins 47
Ellen Levins 36
Annie Levins 17
Ellen Levins 14

1880 Census
Name: Mary A. Sears [Mary A. Levens]
Age: 26
Birth Year: abt 1854
Birthplace: Oregon
Home in 1880: Dallas, Polk, Oregon
Race: White
Gender: Female
Relation to Head of House: Daughter
Marital Status: Divorced
Father's name: Isaac Levens
Father's Birthplace: Illinois
Mother's name: Elenor S. Levens
Mother's Birthplace: Illinois
Occupation: Milliner
Household Members:
Isaac Levens 57
Elenor S. Levens 47
Nellie E. Levens 24
Mary A. Sears 26
Herbert D. Sears 2

1900 Census
Name: Mary A Boujan [Mary A Dougan]
Age: 46
Birth Date: Jun 1853
Birthplace: Oregon
Home in 1900: Tacoma Ward 7, Pierce, Washington
Race: White
Gender: Female
Relation to Head of House: Wife
Marital Status: Married
Spouse's Name: James Boujan [Dougan]
Marriage Year: 1883
Years Married: 17
Father's Birthplace: Illinois
Mother's Birthplace: Virginia
Mother: number of living children: 2
Mother: How many children: 2
Household Members:
James Dougan 58
Mary A Dougan 46
Herbert C Sears 25 [nephew]
Mary M Dougan 17

Early Oregonians Database Index. Oregon State Archives, Salem, Oregon
Name: Mary Anna Levens
Birth Date: 1854
Birth Place: Oregon Territory

Early Oregonian Search
Levens, Mary Anna
Date of Birth 1854
Place of Birth OR Territory
Occupation Milliner
Mother Whiteaker, Eleanor S
Father Levens, Isaac

Marriage Information
Sears, David T 26 Dec 1875 Polk Co., OR

Associated Persons
Levens, Isaac Father
Sears, David T Spouse
Whiteaker, Eleanor S Mother

Census Events
1880 Federal OR Polk Co.



Buried:
Grave location and tombstone photo:
http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GRid=97071640

Other Events:

• _UID: 7619957A225D4A21A70F11729AAEA6924164

Notes:

Early Oregonians Database Index. Oregon State Archives, Salem, Oregon
Name: Isaac Levens
Birth Date: 16 Sep 1822
Birth Place: Randolph, Illinois
Death Date: 18 Nov 1893
Death Place: Polk, Oregon
Cemetery: Dallas Cemetery

Early Oregonian Search
Levens, Isaac
Date of Birth 16 Sep 1822
Place of Birth Randolph Co., IL
Occupation farmer
Date of Death 18 Nov 1893
Place of Death Dallas, Polk Co., OR
Place of Burial Dallas Cemetery, Dallas, Polk Co., OR
Date of Arrival 1845
Father Levens, Otho

Marriage Information
Whiteaker, Ellen 20 Oct 1850 Polk Co., OR

Associated Records
Land Claim Donation Polk Co., OR OC 4143
Probate Estate Polk Co. 394

Associated Persons
Levens, Otho Father
Whiteaker, Ellen Female 03 Nov 1832 Spouse

Census Events
1850 Federal OR Polk Co. 27yrs
1860 Federal OR Polk Co. 37yrs
1870 Federal OR Polk Co.
1880 Federal OR Polk Co.

CENSUS RECORDS

1850 Census
Name: Isaac Levins
Age: 27
Birth Year: abt 1823
Birthplace: Illinois
Home in 1850: Polk, Oregon Territory
Gender: Male
Family Number: 128
Household Members:
Isaac Levins 27

1860 Census
Name: Isaac Levens
Age in 1860: 37
Birth Year: abt 1823
Birthplace: Illinois
Home in 1860: Dallas, Polk, Oregon
Gender: Male
Post Office: Dallas
Household Members:
Isaac Levens 37
Ellen Levens 26
M A Levens 7
L E Levens 4

1870 Census
Name: Grace Levins [Isaac]
Age in 1870: 47
Birth Year: abt 1823
Birthplace: Illinois
Home in 1870: Dallas, Polk, Oregon
Race: White
Post Office: Dallas
Household Members:
Grace Levins 47
Ellen Levins 36
Annie Levins 17
Ellen Levins 14

1880 Census
Name: Isaac Levens
Age: 57
Birth Year: abt 1823
Birthplace: Illinois
Home in 1880: Dallas, Polk, Oregon
Race: White
Gender: Male
Relation to Head of House: Self (Head)
Marital Status: Married
Spouse's Name: Elenor S. Levens
Father's Birthplace: Illinois
Mother's Birthplace: Illinois
Occupation: Farmer
Household Members:
Isaac Levens 57
Elenor S. Levens 47
Nellie E. Levens 24
Mary A. Sears 26 [daughter]
Herbert D. Sears 2 [grandson]

Buried:
Grave location, portrait, and tombstone photo:
http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GSln=levens&GSiman=1&GScid=246163&GRid=28420595&

Isaac married Ellen (Eleanor) S. WHITEAKER 20 Oct 1850, Polk Co. OR. Ellen (daughter of Benjamin WHITEAKER and Mary (Polly) HAYTER) was born 03 Nov 1832, Russell Co. VA; died 28 Mar 1906, Polk Co. OR; was buried , Dallas Cemetery, Dallas, Polk Co. OR. [Group Sheet]

Other Events:

• _UID: 8C4E7798309D49EFB1595F462B5554E25390

Notes:

CENSUS RECORDS

1850 Census
Name: Ellen Whitiker [Ellen Whiteaker]
Age: 18
Birth Year: abt 1832
Birthplace: Virginia
Home in 1850: Polk, Oregon Territory
Gender: Female
Family Number: 121
Household Members:
Benj Whitiker 55
Mary Whitiker 42
David Whitiker 25
William Whitiker 24
Ellen Whitiker 18
Joseph Whitiker 15
Benjn Whitiker 12
Maria Whitiker 9
Washington Whitiker 7
Mary Whitiker 4
Baby Whitiker 9 months

1860 Census
Name: Ellen Levens
Age in 1860: 26
Birth Year: abt 1834
Birthplace: Virginia
Home in 1860: Dallas, Polk, Oregon
Gender: Female
Post Office: Dallas
Household Members:
Isaac Levens 37
Ellen Levens 26
W A Levens 7
L E Levens 4

1870 Census
Name: Ellen Levins
Age in 1870: 36
Birth Year: abt 1834
Birthplace: Virginia
Home in 1870: Dallas, Polk, Oregon
Gender: Female
Post Office: Dallas
Household Members:
Isaac Levins 47
Ellen Levins 36
Annie Levins 17
Ellen Levins 14

1880 Census
Name: Elenor S. Levens
Age: 47
Birth Year: abt 1833
Birthplace: Illinois
Home in 1880: Dallas, Polk, Oregon
Race: White
Gender: Female
Relation to Head of House: Wife
Marital Status: Married
Spouse's Name: Isaac Levens
Father's Birthplace: South Carolina [North Carolina]
Mother's Birthplace: Virginia
Household Members:
Isaac Levens 57
Elenor S. Levens 47
Nellie E. Levens 24
Mary A. Sears 26 [daughter]
Herbert D. Sears 2 [grandson]

1900 Census
Name: Elenor S Levens
Age: 67
Birth Date: Nov 1832
Birthplace: Virginia
Home in 1900: Dallas, Polk, Oregon
Race: White
Gender: Female
Relation to Head of House: Head
Marital Status: Widowed
Father's Birthplace: North Carolina
Mother's Birthplace: Virginia
Mother: number of living children: 2
Mother: How many children: 3
Household Members:
Elenor S Levens 67

Early Oregonians Database Index. Oregon State Archives, Salem, Oregon
Name: Ellen Whiteaker [Eleanor Whiteaker]
Birth Date: 3 Nov 1832
Birth Place: Russell,[County] Virginia
Death Date: 29 Mar 1906

Early Oregonian Search
Whiteaker, Ellen
Person Profile
Alias --, Eleanor
Gender Female Ethnicity
Date of Birth 03 Nov 1832
Place of Birth Russell Co., VA
Date of Death 29 Mar 1906
Mother Hayter, Virginia Mary
Father Whiteaker, Benjamin

Marriage Information
Spouse Date Location
Levens, Isaac 31 Oct 1850 Polk Co., OR
Ingalls, Arthur 2 Jun 1858

Associated Records
Land Claim Donation Polk Co., OR OC 4143

Associated Persons
Name Gender Birthdate Relation
Hayter, Virginia Mary Mother
Ingalls, Arthur Spouse
Levens, Isaac Male 16 Sep 1822 Spouse
Whiteaker, Benjamin Father

Census Events
1870 Federal OR Polk Co.
1880 Federal OR Polk Co.
1850 Federal OR Polk Co. 18yrs
1860 Federal OR Polk Co. 26yrs

Buried:
Grave location:
http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GRid=28420642

Notes:

Married:
https://secure.sos.state.or.us/prs/profile.do?recordNumber=59433

Other Events:

• _UID: 59DF856889194628B2B1DB00E333F979FBEB

Notes:

Benjamin Whitaker reported in the above report that he was from a family of nine [9] children.  Five sons and four daughters.  Other research  by John Weldon Whiteaker states the Bible of Absalom Rufus Whitaker, son of Moses Whitaker  lists in his handwriting "My grandfather, Richard Whitaker had 11 boys and three girls - Giles, Aaron, John, James, Moses, Benjamin and Thomas. [7 named] and Rachel [Catherine] who married Adam Fudge, Mary [Polly] who married Harry Webb4 and Elizabeth Whitaker who did not marry."

(Source - Lang, Herbert O; Himes, George Henry, History of Willamette Valley, 1885, pg 699)

"Born in North Carolina in 1796, and removed to Virginia at an early age. Went to Illinois in 1836, and crossed the plains to Oregon in 1848; settled in Polk County. His occupation was farming. He married Miss Mary Hyter in 1823. Their children numbered eleven, of whom David J., Rachel, Ellen, Benjamin, Maria and George survive".


LAND RECORDS

22 Dec 1834...Washington Co.VA Deed Book 12, pages 128/9.. between Benjamin Whitaker, acting exr. of LW&T of Esau Hayter, one part & Whitley Fullen, $18.50, land in Poor Valley both sides of Valley Creek, 200 acres to Esau Hayter deceased, by the Commonwealth patent of 4 Oct 1820..also other tract in Poor Valley both sides of Valley Creek, 600 acres, patent 4 Oct 1820..reserving from this last mentioned tract so much thereof as is devised by the said Esau Hayter, dec to Andrew Hayter by LW&T...25 March 1835 acknowledged and recorded pp. 129-30, Ind. between Benjamin Whitaker, etc..& William Hayter $13.55 land WNFHR, etc..waters of Wolf Creek north of Israel Hayters. Ackn. 25 March 1835.
 
22 Dec 1834.. Washington Co..VA Deed Book 12, pages 130-1..between Benjamin Whitaker, etc. & Harry Webb.  $3.25, land waters of Valley Creek and land where Esau Hayter, dec., resided..to Esau Hayter by Commonwealth Patent 01 Apr 1820..ack 25 Mar 1835.
 
22 Dec 1834.. Washington Co.VA Deed Book 12..page 130/1..between Benjamin Whitaker and John Litton, $10.00 land north side River Mt. in the Poor Valley and on waters of Tumbling Creek and Valley Creek, 50 acres, patent to Esau Hayter, 04 Oct 1820.  Recorded 25 March 1835.
 
16 July 1836, Washington Co. Deed Book 12 page 371/2...between Benjamin Whitaker & Polly, wife & Whitley Fullen $450.00, land in Poor Valley, 211 acres..land willed and bequeathed to said Polly by LW&T of her father, Esau Hayter, dec., 13 Dec 1826, same tract sold and conveyed by Abram Hayter to Esau Hayter, dec...02 Dec 1820..recorded 31 Aug 1836.

Apr 19, 1851..Washington Co.VA Deed Book 20, page 268/9..Between Harry Webb and Mary, wife, one and Margaret Hayter, $25.00 land, waters of Valley Creek adj. land where Esau Hayter, dec. resident ... Apr 1820 patent..and transferred to Webb by Benjamin Whitaker, acting ex. of Esau Hayter, deceased.

June 17, 1861.. Washington Co..VA Deed Book 25, page 408/9..Whitley Fullen, one and Julius McNew Jr & James P. McNew, WASHINGTON CO.VA, 2nd part.$800., land in Poor Valley...same track of land which was bequeathed to Polly Whitaker by LW&T of her father, Esau Hayter, 13 Dec 1826, ...sold and conveyed by Abram Hayter to Esau Hayter, dec. 2 Dec 1820, except 15 acres and a Salt Lick which was reserved in the devise to the said Polly Whitaker, and from Benjamin Whitaker and Polly, to said Whitley Fullen. 31 March 1862.

MIGRATION

1836...Benjamin and his family left Virginia and moved to Lee County, Illinois, staying in this country for eleven years where three more children were born.

1848...The family left Lee County, Illinois, and crossed the plains in a covered wagon to Oregon, taking with them eight yoke of oxen, three wagons and his carpenter tools, two plows and harrow teeth that were made of inch square iron. They also took with them the family bible and a few books and some of the family relics, which they prized. The family also brought with them the staples for some months provisions, and thus equipped the pioneer, Benjamin Whitaker, and all he held dear on earth cut loose from civilization to cross the plains, which were infested with savage beasts and little less savage Indians (Ref: History of Oregon, Page 886). They found a home for themselves in the mild climate of the beautiful and rich Willamette Valley in Oregon. They arrived at Foster's Farm on October 5th and on the 11th reached Polk County and the following spring purchased the Dr. Boyle donation claim of 640 acres of choice land. The price paid was $250.00 which was less that forth cents an acre. On the property Benjamin raised his family and resided until his death in his seventy-sixth year.

Early Oregonian Search

Whiteaker, Benjamin
Date of Birth 28 May 1796
Place of Birth NC
Occupation farmer
Date of Death 02 Jul 1883
Place of Death Airlie, Polk Co., OR
Place of Burial Whiteaker Cemetery, Polk Co., OR
Mother Bentley, Rachel
Date of Arrival bef 30 Mar 1849
Father Whiteaker, Richard

Marriage Information
Hayter, Virginia Mary 18 Sep 1823 Washington Co., VA

Associated Records
Land Claim Donation Polk Co., OR OC 1241
Probate Estate Polk Co. 0682

Associated Persons
Bentley, Rachel Mother
Hayter, Virginia Mary Female 16 Oct 1808 Spouse
Whiteaker, Richard Father

Census Events

1850 Federal OR Polk Co. 55yrs
1860 Federal OR Polk Co. 63yrs
1870 Federal OR Polk Co.

CENSUS RECORDS

1850 US Census
Name: Benj Whitiker [Benjamin Whiteaker]
Age: 55
Birth Year: abt 1795
Birthplace: Virginia
Home in 1850: Polk, Oregon Territory
Gender: Male
Family Number: 121
Household Members:
Benj Whitiker 55
Mary Whitiker 42
David Whitiker 25
William Whitiker 24
Ellen Whitiker 18
Joseph Whitiker 15
Benjn Whitiker 12
Maria Whitiker 9
Washington Whitiker 7
Mary Whitiker 4
Baby Whitiker 9 months

1860 Census
Name: B Whitaker
Age in 1860: 63
Birth Year: abt 1797
Birthplace: North Carolina
Home in 1860: Independence, Polk, Oregon
Gender: Male
Post Office: Independence
Household Members:
B Whitaker 63
Mary Whitaker 53
I R Whitaker 23
G W Whitaker 17
Mary Whitaker 13

Name: Benjamin Whitcher [Benjamin Whiteaker]
Age in 1870: 73
Birth Year: abt 1797
Birthplace: North Carolina
Home in 1870: Monmouth, Polk, Oregon
Race: White
Gender: Male
Post Office: Monmouth
Household Members:
Benjamin Whitcher 73
Mary Whitcher 63
George Whitcher 26

WILL

Will of Benjamin Whitaker and Probate

July 16, 1872...Polk County, Oregon...In the name of God amen, I Benjamin Whitaker of the County of Polk and the state of Oregon and of the age of seventy five years and being of sound mind and memory do make, publish and declare this my last will and testament in names as falls to wit.
 
First, I give and bequest to my wife, Polly Whitaker the sum of $100.  Second, It is my will that the farm that I now own in Walla Walla County, Washington Territory inherited by me from my son William and the south half of my half of my donation land claim in Eight South Rouge in the County of Polk, and state of Oregon shall be sold and the proceeds equally divided among all of my heirs to wit. David, Whitaker, Rachel McGee, Benjamin Whitaker, Joseph R. Whitaker, Elen Levens, Mariah Ogden, George Whiter and Ellen Collins. Third, it is also my will if there should be any other property at my death it be divided among my heirs.  Fourth, it is my will that if Elen Collins is not of age at my death, that my executors shall hold in trust for said Ellen Collins, all that she may inherit from my estate until she is of lawful age and then pay it over to her taking her receipt and if she should die before she is of age her share shall be equally divided between my lawful heirs. Will witnessed July 16, 1872.

July 2, 1873..County Court of Polk County, State of Oregon..In the matters of the last will and testament of Benjamin Whitaker, deceased... To the Hon. Court of said County, Isaac Levens respectfully show unto the court that Benjamin Whitaker, a resident of said Polk Co., Oregon, died in said county and state on the second day of July AD 1873., that said deceased left a last will and testament; and that he therein appointed and designated  Levens and George Whitaker his exec.  The estate consists of real estate and personal property of about $3180.00 dollars and the legal heirs are David J. Whitaker, aged 48, Rachel McGee, age 41, Ellen  Levens, age 40, Joseph R. Whitaker, age 37, Benjamin Whitaker, age 35, Mariah Ogdon, age 33, George Whitaker, aged about 30 and Ellen Collins, aged 10 years.  David Whitaker, residence, Walla Walla County; Rachel's residence, same place; Ellen Levens residence Polk Co., Joseph Whitaker, residence Polk Co.; Benjamin Whitaker, Polk Co.; Mariah Ogdan residence, Rice County, Minnesota; George Whitaker, Polk Co.; Ellen Collins, Polk Co.  Ack. in court July 7, 1873.

OBITUARY

Obituary (published in a paper in about 1882)

"Never having noticed anything relative to the death of "Old Mrs. Whiteaker" in the papers, I thought it due to herself and her friends that something of her domestic history should be given publicity, while yet some of her old pioneer associates still survive her, and some of whom regarded her with that high esteem which respected worth always merits. This thought was suggested by my wife, who in years past has been the recipient of Mrs. Whiteaker's unbounded hospitality, and who frequently recalls to mind one incident in early life, when that hospitality was most generously extended, and most thankfully accepted. The remembrance of those pioneer days can never be obliterated from the memory, either by time or circumstances. Let the pioneer retrospect the past; call to mind his early associates, and attempt to number his survivors. He will find but few living of the many with whom he was familiar in those early days, and with whom he felt a degree of intimacy amounting almost to that of consanguinity.

In 1852, now about thirty years ago, my wife and self, with our two little ones, were coming from Yamhill, when we were caught in a very heavy rain storm. We were in an open wagon and pretty well drenched when we stopped at Mr. Whiteaker's house. Driving up to the fence, we were met by Mr. Whiteaker, who in loud tones exclaimed: "Hello! What the devil are you doing here? Get out of the wagon and come in the house; you are as wet as the devil." Well, we did as requested, and soon a blazing fire restored warmth to our chilled frames. Mrs. Whiteaker took my wife in charge, and she was quickly clothed in habiliments more congenial to the female sex than a water-saturated piece of calico. And now, after the lapse of thirty years, the kindly feelings manifested upon that occasion by Mr. and Mrs. Whiteaker are remembered by us with the most lively emotions of respect and regard; and more, not only the kindness and hospitality manifested upon that occasion entitled them to our highest regard, but during many years thereafter we received many manifestations of their kindly disposition towards us, that makes the remembrance thereof pleasing reminiscences of the past. But today where are they? Gone to that mysterious realm from which there is not return, and to which we are all hastening.

Mr. Whiteaker was a man of very jovial and merry disposition. Upon one occasion ex-Gov. Whiteaker called upon him and made inquires to ...whether or not there was any relationship between them. Mr. Whiteaker remarked: "I do not claim kin with every scalawag that comes along, but as you are a pretty good looking man, and appear to have some sense, if you can show that we are kin, I'll acknowledge the corn." This was many years ago, and it occurs to my mind as one of the many incidents that go to show the natural tendencies of his disposition, for upon many occasions have his sallies of wit caused much merriment. For his associates: yet, withal, he was a man of strict integrity, of unbounded hospitality, and his rule was to do as he would be done by. How often do the hearts of the old settlers, when calling to mind the struggles and toils incident to pioneer life, bound with a fresh impulse at the remembrances of the social equality, the generous dispositions and disinterested sympathy which characterized them in the intercourse with each other. Almost isolated from civilized life, bound together in a common destiny, each felt the other a warmer friendship that is much of the characteristic of society of the present day. The onward march of time is fast removing from the scenes of active life the "Old Pioneers." Soon the last one will have obeyed the dreaded summons, and the recollection of their hardy toil and struggles in the advancement of civilization will be but a matter of history.

In the death of Mrs. Whiteaker the ranks of the pioneers number one less of that noble band of women who braved the dangers of the wilderness with a heroic devotion to life's duties, worthy a remembrance in the hearts of all who survive her. There is naught in the remembrance of her domestic life but what should bring consolation to all her surviving friends and relatives.

Mrs. Whiteaker was born in Washington County, Virginia, in 1808. Her maiden name was Mary B. Hayter, she married to Benjamin Whiteaker in 1823. They went to Illinois in 1836, where they resided about eleven years. They then came to the conclusion that they would cross the plains to Oregon. In 1848 they bade adieu to friends and started on the perilous trip with sanguine hopes, that with patience and perseverance they would reach the goal of their desires and build upon them up a happy home, where peace, plenty and contentment might bless them through life's pilgrimage. In October,1848, they settled in Polk County where they made a continued residence up to the time of their death, known and respected by all their neighbors as kind , genial, and hospitable in all life's associations.

On the 1st day of December, 1882, Mrs. Whiteaker yielded up her spirit, to God who gave it, serenely and calmly, with the precious hope of ascending. ... She leaves seven children, to whom she leaves the priceless legacy of an honored name, and whose memory will be long cherished by all who knew her, for to have known her was to have formed a deep-seated friendship, and her friendship was indeed a boon, as was indicated by the warmth of her heart and a generosity that was without limit. She is gone and we are left to linger for yet a brief hour before we join the vanished numbers of the pioneers that were."

Burial: Whiteaker Cem, Independence, Oregon
The Whiteaker Cemetery is located on the Bengamin Whiteaker D.L.C.in Township 8S, Range 5W, Section 11. It is a private family cemetery about .01 of an acre in size. All known burials are related to the Whiteaker family. It is about three miles northwest of Monmouth, Polk,County, Oregon. The cemetery has been abandoned to nature. It was last read by Addie Dyal Rickey in 1973.

Tombstone Inscription:
Benjamin Whiteaker
Died
July 2, 1873
aged
76 Y's & 11 M's

Buried:
http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GSln=Whiteaker&GSbyrel=all&GSdyrel=all&GSst=39&GScnty=2231&GScntry=4&GSob=n&GRid=41235580&df=all&

www.polkcountycemetery.com/whiteaker

Benjamin married Mary (Polly) HAYTER 18 Sep 1823, Washington, Co. VA. Mary (daughter of Esau HAYTER and Sarah Elizabeth ALLISON) was born 27 Oct 1808, Washington Co. VA; died 11 Dec 1882, Polk Co. OR; was buried , Whiteaker Cemetery, Polk Co. OR. [Group Sheet]

Other Events:

• _UID: A07F969929F54657BD3C4BA3AEEDFEA22B42

Notes:

CENSUS RECORDS

1850 US Census
Name: Mary Whitiker [Mary Whiteaker]
Age: 42
Birth Year: abt 1808
Birthplace: Virginia
Home in 1850: Polk, Oregon Territory
Gender: Female
Family Number: 121
Household Members:
Benj Whitiker 55
Mary Whitiker 42
David Whitiker 25
William Whitiker 24
Ellen Whitiker 18
Joseph Whitiker 15
Benjn Whitiker 12
Maria Whitiker 9
Washington Whitiker 7
Mary Whitiker 4
Baby Whitiker 9 months

1860 Census
Name: Mary Whitaker
Age in 1860: 53
Birth Year: abt 1807
Birthplace: Virginia
Home in 1860: Independence, Polk, Oregon
Gender: Female
Post Office: Independence
Household Members:
B Whitaker 63
Mary Whitaker 53
I R Whitaker 23
G W Whitaker 17
Mary Whitaker 13

1870 Census
Name: Mary Whitcher [Mary Whiteaker]
Age in 1870: 63
Birth Year: abt 1807
Birthplace: Virginia
Home in 1870: Monmouth, Polk, Oregon
Race: White
Gender: Female
Post Office: Monmouth
Household Members:
Benjamin Whitcher 73
Mary Whitcher 63
George Whitcher 26


The family moved to Russell County, Virginia before 1826.

OBITIUARY

Obituary (published in a paper in about 1882)

"Never having noticed anything relative to the death of "Old Mrs. Whiteaker" in the papers, I thought it due to herself and her friends that something of her domestic history should be given publicity, while yet some of her old pioneer associates still survive her, and some of whom regarded her with that high esteem which respected worth always merits. This thought was suggested by my wife, who in years past has been the recipient of Mrs. Whiteaker's unbounded hospitality, and who frequently recalls to mind one incident in early life, when that hospitality was most generously extended, and most thankfully accepted. The remembrance of those pioneer days can never be obliterated from the memory, either by time or circumstances. Let the pioneer retrospect the past; call to mind his early associates, and attempt to number his survivors. He will find but few living of the many with whom he was familiar in those early days, and with whom he felt a degree of intimacy amounting almost to that of consanguinity.

In 1852, now about thirty years ago, my wife and self, with our two little ones, were coming from Yamhill, when we were caught in a very heavy rain storm. We were in an open wagon and pretty well drenched when we stopped at Mr. Whiteaker's house. Driving up to the fence, we were met by Mr. Whiteaker, who in loud tones exclaimed: "Hello! What the devil are you doing here? Get out of the wagon and come in the house; you are as wet as the devil." Well, we did as requested, and soon a blazing fire restored warmth to our chilled frames. Mrs. Whiteaker took my wife in charge, and she was quickly clothed in habiliments more congenial to the female sex than a water-saturated piece of calico. And now, after the lapse of thirty years, the kindly feelings manifested upon that occasion by Mr. and Mrs. Whiteaker are remembered by us with the most lively emotions of respect and regard; and more, not only the kindness and hospitality manifested upon that occasion entitled them to our highest regard, but during many years thereafter we received many manifestations of their kindly disposition towards us, that makes the remembrance thereof pleasing reminiscences of the past. But today where are they? Gone to that mysterious realm from which there is not return, and to which we are all hastening.

Mr. Whiteaker was a man of very jovial and merry disposition. Upon one occasion ex-Gov. Whiteaker called upon him and made inquires to ...whether or not there was any relationship between them. Mr. Whiteaker remarked: "I do not claim kin with every scalawag that comes along, but as you are a pretty good looking man, and appear to have some sense, if you can show that we are kin, I'll acknowledge the corn." This was many years ago, and it occurs to my mind as one of the many incidents that go to show the natural tendencies of his disposition, for upon many occasions have his sallies of wit caused much merriment. For his associates: yet, withal, he was a man of strict integrity, of unbounded hospitality, and his rule was to do as he would be done by. How often do the hearts of the old settlers, when calling to mind the struggles and toils incident to pioneer life, bound with a fresh impulse at the remembrances of the social equality, the generous dispositions and disinterested sympathy which characterized them in the intercourse with each other. Almost isolated from civilized life, bound together in a common destiny, each felt the other a warmer friendship that is much of the characteristic of society of the present day. The onward march of time is fast removing from the scenes of active life the "Old Pioneers." Soon the last one will have obeyed the dreaded summons, and the recollection of their hardy toil and struggles in the advancement of civilization will be but a matter of history.

In the death of Mrs. Whiteaker the ranks of the pioneers number one less of that noble band of women who braved the dangers of the wilderness with a heroic devotion to life's duties, worthy a remembrance in the hearts of all who survive her. There is naught in the remembrance of her domestic life but what should bring consolation to all her surviving friends and relatives.

Mrs. Whiteaker was born in Washington County, Virginia, in 1808. Her maiden name was Mary B. Hayter, she married to Benjamin Whiteaker in1823. They went to Illinois in 1836, where they resided about eleven years. They then came to the conclusion that they would cross the plains to Oregon. In 1848 they bade adieu to friends and started on the perilous trip with sanguine hopes, that with patience and perseverance they would reach the goal of their desires and build upon them up a happy home, where peace, plenty and contentment might bless them through life's pilgrimage. In October,1848, they settled in Polk County where they made a continued residence up to the time of their death, known and respected by all their neighbors as kind , genial, and hospitable in all life's associations.

On the 1st day of December, 1882, Mrs. Whiteaker yielded up her spirit, to God who gave it, serenely and calmly, with the precious hope of ascending. ... She leaves seven children, to whom she leaves the priceless legacy of an honored name, and whose memory will be long cherished by all who knew her, for to have known her was to have formed a deep-seated friendship, and her friendship was indeed a boon, as was indicated by the warmth of her heart and a generosity that was without limit. She is gone and we are left to linger for yet a brief hour before we join the vanished numbers of the pioneers that were."

BURIAL

Burial: Whiteaker Cem, Independence, Oregon
The Whiteaker Cemetery is located on the Bengamin Whiteaker D.L.C.in Township 8S, Range 5W, Section 11. It is a private family cemetery about .01 of an acre in size. All known burials are related to the Whiteaker family. It is about three miles northwest of Monmouth, Polk,County, Oregon. The cemetery has been abandoned to nature. It was last read by Addie Dyal Rickey in 1973.

Tombstone Inscription:
Mary B., wife of Benjamin Whiteaker
Died Dec. 1, 1882
Aged 74y 1m 15d

Buried:
http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GSln=Whiteaker&GSbyrel=all&GSdyrel=all&GSst=39&GScnty=2231&GScntry=4&GSob=n&GRid=41235455&df=all&

www.polkcountycemetery.com/whiteaker