John Wesley MCGHEE, Jr.

Notes:

CENSUS RECORDS

1870 Census
Name: John Mc Gee [McGhee]
Age in 1870: 3
Birth Year: abt 1867
Birthplace: Wt
Home in 1870: Waitsburg, Walla Walla, Washington Territory
Race: White
Gender: Male
Post Office: Waitsburg
Household Members:
J W McGhee 49
Rachel McGhee 43
Wm McGhee 2
Frank McGhee 7
John McGhee 3

1880 Census
Name: John Mc Ghee
Age: 13
Birth Year: abt 1867
Birthplace: Washington Territory
Home in 1880: Waitsburgh, Walla Walla, Washington
Race: White
Gender: Male
Relation to Head of House: Son
Marital Status: Single
Father's name: John W. Mc Ghee
Father's Birthplace: Virginia
Mother's name: Rachel Mc Ghee
Mother's Birthplace: Virginia
Occupation: At Home
Household Members:
John W. Mc Ghee 59
Rachel Mc Ghee 52
Frank Mc Ghee 16
John Mc Ghee 13

1900 Census
Name: John W McGhee [John W Mcghee Jr.]
Age: 33
Birth Date: Feb 1867
Birthplace: Washington
Home in 1900: Walla Walla Ward 2, Walla Walla, Washington
Race: White
Gender: Male
Relation to Head of House: Son (Child)
Marital Status: Single
Father's name: John W Mc Ghee
Father's Birthplace: Virginia
Mother's name: Rachael Mc Ghee
Mother's Birthplace: Virginia
Household Members:
John W Mc Ghee 79
Rachael Mc Ghee 71
John W Mc Ghee 33


HISTORICAL INFORMATION

Source: Lyman William Denison,Lyman's History of Old Walla Walla County (1918)Chicago, Ill., S.J. Clarke Publishing Company, Vol 1 Page 292

JOHN W. McGHEE, Jr. -- A son of Walla Walla county, and one whose career has been such as to reflect credit upon the valley in which he was born, the subject of this brief biographical review is especially deserving of representation in a work of this character. His parents, John W. and Rachel (Whiteaker) McGhee, were old pioneers of the valley, residing on the Coppei three miles south of Waitsburg, and on the parental farm our subject was born, the date being February 11, 1867.

He acquired his education in the local public schools, in Waitsburg Academy, in Whitman College and in the Empire Business College of Walla Walla. Upon retiring from the last named institution he entered the office of the Fidelity Abstract Company, by which he was engaged for a short time, after which he entered the employ of the Washington Loan and Trust Company, of whose bookkeeping he had charge for about three years thereafter. He resigned in 1892 to accept a position as deputy county treasurer, under H. H. Hungate.

In the Democratic convention of 1894 Mr. McGhee was one of the candidates for nomination for the office of county treasurer, and he proved to be the choice of his party, but was defeated in the Republican landslide which followed, his opponent, however, receiving a majority of only ninety-seven votes. The ensuing year he was appointed receiver of the Walla Walla Savings bank, and he continued to discharge his duties as such until the affairs of the bank were settled. In the campaign of 1898 he was again the nominee of his party for the county treasurership, and this time his candidacy was successful.

The Republicans were almost universally victorious in that election, but the fact that Mr. McGhee ran two hundred votes ahead of his ticket speaks volumes for the esteem and confidence in which he is held among the people of his native valley. He has given his entire energies to the faithful discharge of the duties of his office ever since the county's books were first placed in his hands, proving true to this, as he had to every other trust reposed in him by the people.

Mr. McGhee was also treasurer of the city of Walla Walla from 1896 to 1898. Our subject is a prominent Odd Fellow, his membership being in Washington Lodge, No. 19, of which he is recording secretary, and in Walla Walla Encampment, No. 3. He also belongs to the Royal Arcanum.


Buried:
Grave location, biography, and tombstone photo:
http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GSln=McGhee&GSiman=1&GScid=76953&GRid=70812168&
Plot: WALLA-OF-9-14-6

Grave location, biography, and tombstone photo:
http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GSln=McGhee&GSiman=1&GScid=76953&GRid=70812168&
Plot: WALLA-OF-9-14-6

Other Events:

• _UID: 015D5DCA35C44DA0BAFD54BC81DEEA4BC681

Notes:

CENSUS RECORDS

1860 Census
Name: John W Mcgee [McGhee]
Age in 1860: 39
Birth Year: abt 1821
Birthplace: Virginia
Home in 1860: Touchet, Walla Walla, Washington
Gender: Male
Post Office: Walla Walla
Household Members:
John W Mcghee 39
Rachel Mcghee 32
Joanna Mcghee 12

1870 Census
Name: J W Mc Gee [McGhee]
Age in 1870: 49
Birth Year: abt 1821
Birthplace: Virginia
Home in 1870: Waitsburg, Walla Walla, Washington Territory
Race: White
Gender: Male
Post Office: Waitsburg
Household Members:
J W McGhee 49
Rachel McGhee 43
Wm McGhee 2
Frank McGhee 7
John McGhee 3

1880 Census
Name: John W. Mc Ghee
Age: 59
Birth Year: abt 1821
Birthplace: Virginia
Home in 1880: Waitsburgh, Walla Walla, Washington
Race: White
Gender: Male
Relation to Head of House: Self (Head)
Marital Status: Married
Spouse's Name: Rachel Mc Ghee
Father's Birthplace: Virginia
Mother's Birthplace: Virginia
Occupation: Farmer
Household Members:
John W. Mc Ghee 59
Rachel Mc Ghee 52
Frank Mc Ghee 16
John Mc Ghee 13

1900 Census
Name: John W Mc Ghee [John W Mcghee]
Age: 79
Birth Date: Apr 1821
Birthplace: Virginia
Home in 1900: Walla Walla Ward 2, Walla Walla, Washington
Race: White
Gender: Male
Relation to Head of House: Head
Marital Status: Married
Spouse's Name: Rachael Mc Ghee
Marriage Year: 1859
Years Married: 41
Father's Birthplace: Virginia
Mother's Birthplace: Virginia
Household Members:
John W Mc Ghee 79
Rachael Mc Ghee 71
John W Mc Ghee 33

Early Oregonian Search

McGhee, John Westley [Wesley]
Date of Birth 1821
Place of Birth Washington Co., VA
Date of Arrival 01 Dec 1850

Marriage Information
Miller, Cordelia D 10 Dec 1840 Callaway Co., MO
Whiteaker, Rachel

Associated Records
Land Claim Donation Washington Co., OR OC 0315

Associated Persons
Miller, Cordelia D Female Spouse
Whiteaker, Rachel Spouse

Buried:
Grave location, portrait, and tombstone photo:
http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GRid=98044169
Plot: WALLA-OF-9-14-9

Died:
Washington, Deaths, 1883-1960
Name: John W McGhee
Gender: Male
Race: American
Birth Date: abt 1872
Birth Place: Virginia
Death Date: 2 Aug 1908
Age at Death: 36
Death Location: Walla Walla, Washington
Residence: 132 W Chestnut

John married Rachel WHITEAKER. Rachel (daughter of Benjamin WHITEAKER and Mary (Polly) HAYTER) was born 17 Jul 1828, Russell Co. VA; died 10 Jun 1901, Walla Walla Co. WA; was buried , Mountain View Cemetery, Walla Walla, Walla Walla Co. WA. [Group Sheet]

Other Events:

• _UID: C438F33B1E6E4AE7BE8FA442E20E8BAD4266

Notes:

CENSUS RECORDS

1850 Census
Name: Rachael Hyde
Age: 23
Birth Year: abt 1827
Birthplace: Virginia
Home in 1850: Linn, Oregon Territory
Gender: Female
Family Number: 142
Household Members:
Aaron T Hyde 29
Rachael Hyde 23
Reuben Streethoff 29
John Streethoff 24
Louis Streethoff 26

1860 Census
Name: Rachel Mcgee [McGhee]
Age in 1860: 32
Birth Year: abt 1828
Birthplace: Virginia
Home in 1860: Touchet, Walla Walla, Washington
Gender: Female
Post Office: Walla Walla
Household Members:
John W Mcghee 39
Rachel Mcghee 32
Joanna Mcghee 12 [stepdaughter]

1870 Census
Name: Rachel Mc Gee [McGhee]
Age in 1870: 43
Birth Year: abt 1827
Birthplace: Virginia
Home in 1870: Waitsburg, Walla Walla, Washington Territory
Race: White
Gender: Female
Post Office: Waitsburg
Household Members:
J W McGhee 49
Rachel McGhee 43
Wm McGhee 2
Frank McGhee 7
John McGhee 3

1880 Census
Name: Rachel Mc Ghee
Age: 52
Birth Year: abt 1828
Birthplace: Virginia
Home in 1880: Waitsburgh, Walla Walla, Washington
Race: White
Gender: Female
Relation to Head of House: Wife
Marital Status: Married
Spouse's Name: John W. Mc Ghee
Father's Birthplace: North Carolina
Mother's Birthplace: Virginia
Occupation: Keeps House
Household Members:
John W. Mc Ghee 59
Rachel Mc Ghee 52
Frank Mc Ghee 16
John Mc Ghee 13

1900 Census
Name: Rachael Mc Ghee [Rachael Mcghee]
Age: 71
Birth Date: Jul 1828
Birthplace: Virginia
Home in 1900: Walla Walla Ward 2, Walla Walla, Washington
Race: White
Gender: Female
Relation to Head of House: Wife
Marital Status: Married
Spouse's Name: John W Mc Ghee
Marriage Year: 1859
Years Married: 41
Father's Birthplace: Virginia
Mother's Birthplace: Virginia
Mother: number of living children: 3
Mother: How many children: 3
Household Members:
John W Mc Ghee 79
Rachael Mc Ghee 71
John W Mc Ghee 33

Early Oregonians Database Index. Oregon State Archives, Salem, Oregon

Name: Rachel Whiteaker
Birth Date: 1830
Birth Place: Russell [County], Virginia
Death Date: 10 Jun 1901
Death Place: Walla Walla, Washington

Early Oregonian Search

Whiteaker, Rachel
Date of Birth 1830
Place of Birth Russell Co., VA
Date of Death 10 Jun 1901
Place of Death Walla Walla Co., WA
Mother Hayter, Virginia Mary
Father Whiteaker, Benjamin

Marriage Information
Spouse Date Location
Hyde, Aaron J 29 Apr 1849 Polk Co., OR
McGee, John Westley

Associated Records
Land Claim Donation Linn Co., OR OC 2408

Associated Persons
Hayter, Virginia Mary Mother
Hyde, Aaron J Male 1820 Spouse
McGee, John Westley Spouse
Whiteaker, Benjamin Father

Buried:
Grave location and tombstone photo:
http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GSln=MCG&GSpartial=1&GSbyrel=all&GSst=50&GScntry=4&GSsr=721&GRid=98044204&
Plot: WALLA-OF-9-14-10


Died:
Washington, Deaths, 1883-1960
Name: Rachel McGhee
Gender: Female
Race: White
Birth Date: abt 1829
Birth Place: Virginia
Death Date: 10 Jun 1901
Age at Death: 72
Death Location: Walla Walla, Washington
Residence: 132 Chestnut

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

Other Events:

• _UID: CDFDA936E78348BFA469B23A8407826B8B7C

Notes:

Richard Whitaker of North Carolina and Washington County, Virginia by Joye Boardman

The significant portion of the information on Richard Whitaker and Rachel Bentley's descendants comes from Joye Boardman's book which is out of print. She kindly provided me her material via email with permission to post on this website.

"For a time it was thought Richard Whitaker, born 1752, was a son of Richard,Sr. and wife, Elizabeth Cary of Halifax Co., NC. After careful and extended research from many different sources,this Richard is not a son of the Halifax County Whitakers. It is possible he is a relative of the large Whitaker family from Virginia and North Carolina but that must be researched further." 

David Whitaker, son of Benjamin and grandson of Richard, tells in the History of Oregon, page 886, that "Grandfather Richard Whiteaker emigrated from Wales previous to the Revolution and settled in North Carolina, where he married Rachel Bentley and reared a family of five sons and four daughters. He was a participant in the Revolutionary war and lived to be eighty-two years of age."

Richard may be the son of either Mark Whitaker or James Whitaker whose adjoining plantations lay southeast of the Bentley plantation on Bear Creek.

Cheryl Duke's notes: The evidence is pointing in this direction for several reasons. No immigration record has been located o his coming from Wales, nor is there any record of his being an indentured servant.

Given the patterns of families and neighbors migrating from one location to another,it was unusual for a man without any ties to come into an area and be readily accepted. Especially to marry into an extended family like the Bentley's. Also, a person needed to have farming and survival skills to settle on the frontier. Coming from Wales and settling in the wilderness, a person would need friends or family to help in the process of adjustment. With the Whitaker's and the Bentley's both being from counties in Maryland that were close to each other, there would probably be a comfort and connection that would make it easier to establish communication and being neighborly.

So it is more likely that Richard is the son of James Whitaker, as the name Mark doesn't appear in the names of his son or his descendants. On the other hand, Mark Whitaker Jr.'s offspring do continue its use. Only DNA evidence will ultimately confirm what written records do not.

Continuation of Joye Boardman's research

NORTH CAROLINA COURT AND LAND RECORDS

The Rowan County North Carolina Court Minutes dated 8 Aug 1778 list those persons who "refused of neglected" to take the Oath of Allegiance to the state. Included in the list for Capt. Lyon's District is the name Daniel Bentley, and the names of Bentleys neighbors: Mesheck Davis, John Willcockson, Snr., Mark Whitacre, Adam Hall Snr., Samuel Willcoxson and Israel Willcoxson being also on the list.

From Civil Action Papers, Lincoln Co., NC Richard Whitaker vs Michael Buff. In same papers, Whitakers on a 1782 List of Rowan County property owners, summoned with regard to confiscation of their property: Alexander, Henry, James, Jiles, Richard. See Rowan County Register August 1988 by Jo White Linn.

A list dated 3 November 1782 details the names of men living in Capt. Pearson's Company who were summoned by William Butler, constable, to show why their property should not be confiscated. Included in the 1782 list are the names of Anthony Pealor [Peeler], John Wilcockson, Danul [Daniel] Lewis, and "Richard Whitaker Runaway." "Runaway" simply meant the individual was no longer in the area. This was Richard Whitaker's case as he moved with Thomas Bentley's family in 1782 to Lincoln County, North Carolina, having married Thomas Bentley's daughter, Rachel Bentley.

Note from Cheryl Duke: It appears the families were victims of claim jumping, In 1777, a confiscation act was passed during during the Revolutionary War, seizing the lands of Lord Granville for the state of North Carolina. Settlers on Granville lands had to reapply for a new state land grant to their farms, and many lost everything to claim jumpers. Also on this list were John, Henry, Alexander and James Whitaker, along with Jiles Whitaker listed as a runaway (meaning he was no longer in the area).

Rowan County, North Carolina Tax Lists 1757-1800 Annotated Transcriptions, by Jo White Linn, 1995, Preface pp. xi - xv. "Because Rowan County lay within the Granville Proprietary and because the Granville Land Office snapped shut in 1763 and never reopened, there was no way for a person to gain title to vacant land for the fifteen year period until the State Land Office opened in 1778. Because many of the settlers who flooded into the area during the period could not gain title to land, their names do not appear in the deed records and cannot readily be confirmed by other records."

"Conscientious objectors, such as Quakers, Moravians, Menonists, and Dunkers, and those who refused to swear allegiance to the State were charged a three fold tax." Mark Whitaker was listed on the list of those not taking the oath of allegiance, so if the family was percieved as being Loyalists or Tories, then they paid in money and enmity from Patriot neighbors.

In 1782 Thomas, his wife Hannah, and some of the children moved to the Indian Creek area of eastern Lincoln County, North Carolina. Accompanying Thomas and Hannah were Daniel and Nancy (Lewis) Bentley; Meshack Davis, who had married Thomas and Hannah's daughter Lydia about 1774 in Rowan County; Richard Whiteaker, and his wife Rachel Bentley; and Thomas and Hannah's daughter, Margaret, who would later marry William Yonts in Lincoln Co. NC.

Rachel's sister Mary married Aaron Freeman according to the Rowan County records. "Freeman, Aaron to Mary Bently, 17 dec 1769, Bentamin Bently, bondsman, Thomas Frohock, wit consent from Thos. Bently for his daugher Mary, 17 dec 1769, Benjamin Bently, James Freeman, wit."

Richard Whitaker was a very good friend of Aaron Freeman, and they named their sons Aaron, Benjamin & Thomas.

On 1 September 1795 the widow Hannah Bentley and her son, Daniel, sold to George Savage and Catherine Bollinger the plantation on which Hannah lived.

1 September 1795. Hannah Bentley & Daniel Bentley of Lincoln County to George Savage & Catherine Bollinger, both of Lincoln County, for 20 pounds, a tract of land that Thomas Bentley bought of Thomas Welch in Lincoln County on the waters of Indian Creek on the south side of the creek, it being the plantation she [Hannah Bentley] now lives on. It being the land [25 acres] that was accepted [excepted] in the deed that Daniel Bentley made to Jacob Bollinger [doesn't give boundaries] Signed: Hannah Bentley (her mark), Daniel Bentley. Witnesses: Benj. Moore, Richard Whiteakker, William Yonts. Lincoln Co., NC, Deed Book 18, page 146.

Richard and wife, Rachel, moved to Washington County, Virginia, from the Lincoln County area of North Carolina. This is where Richard resided until his death on 18 October 1838.

WASHINGTON COUNTY VIRGINIA RECORDS

Richard Whitaker came into Washington County, Virginia from North Carolina sometime around 1796.  [Ref: Washington County, VA Personal Property Tax Lists 1782-1840].  Listed are Giles Whiteacre and Richard Whiteacre. Richard Whitiker  is listed with various spelling of the name from 1796 until his death. The 1810 Index to the Census of Virginia lists Richard Whitaker living next door to James Whitaker.  Isaac Whitaker is listed under a different household.
 
It can only be conjectured as to why Richard and his sons came into Washington County, Virginia; perhaps they were attracted to the salt deposits on the North Fork of the Holston River.  They evidently had means as they purchased land shortly after coming in the County. Dr. Joseph E. Williams, Professor at Emory & Henry College suggested they perhaps came for the salt at Saltville, VA.

Benjamin Whitaker  stated he had 5 brothers and 4 sisters. Absalom Rufus Whitaker, grandson of Richard named seven brothers and three sisters in his Bible.  Why the others were not named remains a mystery. They could have been older or died as youngsters. 

1810 Federal Census Washington Co., VA. Richard Whitaker is listed with 1 free white male, 10-16 [Thomas}, 2 males 16-26 [Benjamin & Moses], 1 male, 45 or older, [himself], 2 free white females under 10, [Mary & Elizabeth], 1 female, 10-16, [Catherine], 1 female 26-45, [Rachel]

Nov 25, 1814 Washington Co VA [Deed Bk 6, page 21; page 319 in DB index]  Richard Whitechor  [Whitaker] and his son, Moses  purchased two [2] tracts of land belonging to Charles Thurman and his wife, Barbara, all of Washington Co VA for $600. containing 113 acres, patent bearing date of 10 Sept 1787 and 50 acres, patent bearing date of 5 Nov 1798, lying on both sides of the North Fork of the Holston River. The 113 acres begins at a beech tree in an island corner to John Lee and crossing the river and a corner to John Lee on the south side of Little Mountain. p.6

1815 SW VA Tax Assessments : Julius Davenport, one farm on the North Fork Holston River joining Richard Whitarker.

1820 Census
Name: Rickard Whitecar [Richard Whitaker]
Home in 1820 (City, County, State): Washington, Virginia
Enumeration Date: August 7, 1820
Free White Persons - Males - 45 and over: 1
Free White Persons - Females - 10 thru 15: 1
Free White Persons - Females - 16 thru 25: 2
Free White Persons - Females - 45 and over : 1
Free Colored Persons - Males - 14 thru 25: 1
Number of Persons - Engaged in Agriculture: 1
Free White Persons - Under 16: 1
Free White Persons - Over 25: 2
Total Free White Persons: 5
Total Free Colored Persons: 1
Total All Persons - White, Slaves, Colored, Other: 6

1822 Washington County VA:  Richard and John Whitaker  witnessed the will of Rev. Isaac Chapman in 1822, the year Chapman died.  Richard went bond to settle his estate which was settled in 1825.

1824  Washington County VA Deed Book 8, 1822..25, pages 300/301  between John Logan, one and William S. & John Logan, Richard Whitaker, William Apperson, Jacob Morrell, Trustees of Maiden Springs Meeting House and lot-land and tract conveyed to John Logan to Henry's corner Jan 1804.  Recorded 20 July 1824.

1830 Census
Name: Richard Whitaker
Home in 1830 (City, County, State): Washington, Virginia
Free White Persons - Males - Under 5: 1
Free White Persons - Males - 70 thru 79: 1
Free White Persons - Females - 5 thru 9: 1
Free White Persons - Females - 10 thru 14: 1
Free White Persons - Females - 20 thru 29: 1
Free White Persons - Females - 60 thru 69: 2
Free Colored Persons - Males - 10 thru 23: 2
Free Colored Persons - Males - 24 thru 35: 1
Free Colored Persons - Males - 36 thru 54: 2
Slaves - Males - 10 thru 23: 3
Slaves - Males - 24 thru 35: 23
Slaves - Males - 36 thru 54: 8
Slaves - Males - 55 thru 99: 1
Slaves - Females - Under 10: 5
Slaves - Females - 24 thru 35: 2
Slaves - Females - 36 thru 54: 1
Free White Persons - Under 20: 3
Free White Persons - 20 thru 49: 1
Total Free White Persons: 7
Total Slaves: 43
Total Free Colored Persons: 5
Total - All Persons (Free White, Slaves, Free Colored): 55

WILL

Will Book, page 158 WASHINGTON COUNTY, VA dated Jan 13, 1834, probated May 25, 1840.... My wife, Elizabeth to have 1/3 of the land the rest of her natural life. [Elizabeth Blair Chapman married Richard in 1829 and was in his household in 1830 CV Census]
 
My three grandchildren, Ruth E. Whitaker, Mahala Whitaker and James G. Whitaker to receive the other 2/3 of said estate. [NOTE: These three grandchildren were children of his daughter Elizabeth Whitaker who did not marry.  See 1830/1840 WASHINGTON COUNTY, VA Census] p7
 
At my wife's death, the plantation is to be sold and equally divided among my three grandchildren.
 
My son, Moses, to get $1.00
 
My son, Benjamin, the $40.00 which I owe him.
 
I appoint James Whitaker my Exor.
 
Signed: Richard Whitaker  Witnesses: David Campbell, Michael S. Fleenor and John L. Taylor, Bond $1000. Security by N. Snead.

REFERENCES

The following are the references from Joye Boardman's book Richard Whitaker of North Carolina and Washington County, Virginia along with contributions from fellow Whitaker researchers and related families.

Washington County, Virginia Birth, Death, Marriage, Deed Records

1810 Index to Washington Co.Virginia Census

1810 Federal Census

Washington County, Virginia Census.

Hayter/Litton Cemetery, Washington Co.VA.

Washington Co., VA Death Register

Obiturary: Hettie Woodward, Chess F. Woodward, and Dorothy Woodward Montgomery.

Dorothy Ann Callahan Serber, Damascus, VA...Information of Callahan family.

Reserach on Callahan Family by D. B. Callahan, Saltville, VA.

Marriage Records, Smyth Co., VA.

Camp Chase, Ohio Register, Death Record, Grave # 1581.

Russell County, Virginia Census, Birth Records

Washington County, Virginia Wills

Research: On Richard Whitaker and James Whitaker by Joseph E. Williams, Emory, VA.

Marriage Records Washington Co., Virginia

Research by Thomas Colley, Hancerville, AL

Research by Jack Hockett, St. David's, PA

Marriage record research by Linda Gilley, Bristol, TN.

Research by Joye Boardman, Palm Coast, FL

Research by Charles Nelson, Alexandria, VA

Poston Research, Jack Hockett, Thomas Colley

Whitaker Cemetery, Independence, Oregon..Stones copied in 1973 by Mrs. James L. Dyal.

Pinckney's Map of Lee County, Illinois

Williamette Valley Genealogical Society

State Library, Salem, Oregon

The Oregon Argus, Oregon City, Oregon

Frank T. Gilbert, Historical Sketches of Walla Walla, Whitman, Columbia and Garfield Counties.

Hiram Ogden's Description of the Trip across the Plains (2700 Miles).

County Court House, Walla Walla, WA

Polk Co Census, 1850, 1860, 1870, 1889, 1900, 1910.

Oregon Donation Land Claims Book 1, 1241 Book V, #1241

Pacific Christian Advocate Newspaper

History of Willamette Valley, 1885   by H. O. Long

Photographs sent by Bette Hardinge, Palmdale, California

History of Oregon

Lyman's History of Walla Walla County, Vol 1, Chicago, S. J. Clarke Pub. Co.

Walla Walla, WA Court record,

Polk Co., Oregon Marriage Records

Probate Records, Walla County, WA.

1870 Washington Territory, Waitsburg Township Census

Birth, Marriage, Death Records, Wills Washington Co.VA; Russell Co., VA.

Research by Betty Hardinge, a great-great-great granddaughter of Benjamin Whitaker. Bette died in Florida in 1994 from a heart attack.

J. Gareth Pearson - Information on Benjamin Whitaker line.

Research sent to me on Martha Ann Snodgrass by Mildred Elaine Wilburn Spencer, Houston, Texas.
 

Updated all along Corrections and Additions send to:
Joye Boardman
396 445-8343
7 Waldron Place
Palm Coast, Florida 32164
 

Birth:
Other possibilities are Wales according to his grandson.

Name:
In legal documents he spelled his name Whiteaker.

Richard married Rachel BENTLEY Abt 1782, North Carolina. Rachel (daughter of Thomas BENTLEY and Hannah) was born 1750, Frederick Co. MD; died Bef 1810, Washington Co. VA. [Group Sheet]

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• _UID: BD7EAB91C23A465891ED380F485F1AA53C07

Notes:

It is believed Rachel is also a daughter, due to Richard Whitaker signing as witness to the Bentley land deed.

About 1782 Rachel Bentley married Richard Whitaker while her parents were yet living on Bear Creek in the Forks of the Yadkin.

Rachael Bentley married Richard Whitaker. No record of this marriage has been found either in North or South Carolina, however the proof of their marriage comes from a statement made by their son, Benjamin Whitaker, taken from "The History of Oregon", where he states his parents were Richard Whitaker and Rachel Bentley. In later years, a great-great granddaughter stated Richard and Rachel were married in North Carolina about 1781. Recent research shows the marriage date is probably much earlier as the older sons would have been born by ca 1774. In this same report, Benjamin Whitaker states he was born in North Carolina.

In 1782 Thomas, his wife Hannah, and some of the children moved to the Indian Creek area of eastern Lincoln County, North Carolina. Accompanying Thomas and Hannah were Daniel and Nancy (Lewis) Bentley; Meshack Davis, who had married Thomas and Hannahâ's daughter Lydia about 1774 in Rowan County; Richard Whiteaker, and his wife Rachel Bentley; and Thomas and Hannah's daughter, Margaret, who would later marry William Yonts in Lincoln Co. NC.

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• _UID: 6830D82C5FE0483487BDE06F299075556D75

Esau married Sarah Elizabeth ALLISON. Sarah was born ca 1771/72. [Group Sheet]

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• _UID: 2F5DC213A99A49D3925595FD17BB7ADA5F72