George, Presley

The following data is extracted from History of the Pacific Northwest, Oregon and Washington, 1889.

PRESLEY GEORGE. - This pioneer of distinction, who founded in our state one of its most honorable families, was born in London county, Virginia, March 23, 1798, and was the son of Jesse and Mary Craig George, of an old family in that state. While still a boy he came west to Ohio, crossing the Ohio river at the ford where Wheeling now stands. For forty years he lived among the "Buckeyes," putting his should to the wheel, and doing all in his power to establish the high and generous civilization of that great state. In 1826 he was united in marriage to Miss Mahala Nickerson.

In 1851, seeking new scenes and a new state, in whose construction he might have a part, he crossed the plains to Oregon, making for himself and family a home on the old Donation claim near Lebanon, which is still known by his name. Here he developed a farm of great productiveness, and a home of cheerful and happy interior, with surroundings of great beauty. Here also he brought up his three sons, and served his state and neighborhood in all the ways known to a good citizen.

He died December 23, 1879, at his home in East Portland, at the advanced age of eighty-one years; yet even then his demise was not due to disease or wasted vital forces, but to an injury received by a fall. He is buried at East Portland in Lone Fir Cemetery. On the shaft of marble over his grave are inscribed these words: "One whose life aim was to be true to himself, his family, his country and his Creator."

Source: History of the Pacific Northwest, Oregon and Washington, 1889

  Go Back