History of Early Pioneer Families of Hood River, Oregon. Compiled by Mrs. D.M. Coon

MR. AND MRS. BUTLER AND MR. AND MRS WHIITING           1859

     Mr. Butler cane to Dog River the first week in Feb. 1859. He made a trip up the river in search of a homestead and selected one on the east side. Two other claims had been taken in that neighborhood, one by the "Gordon Boys" and the other by A.C. Stadden and a cabin had been built on each homestead.
     Mr. Butler's wife came in March and with her came Mr. and Mrs. Whiting, The latter selected a claim joining Mr. Butler's land on the west. While building their cabins the two families occupied the one owned by Mr. Stadden.
     The road from the Coe farm took a southwesterly course, fording the river near where Tucker's bridge now stands. This road was also used by persons going to The Dalles as the ford was considered safer than the one at the mouth of the river, The occupants of the Stadden home returned, after a short absence, to find that the cabin had been robbed of its cured meats and other supplies, they questioned the Gordon boys who reported that a band of Indians had passed that way in their absence. The Indians were overtaken but denied all knowledge of the missing goods and a search of their luggage revealed nothing. The Indians then insisted that all go back and confront their accusers with the theft. This was done. The Gordon boys denied the charge but the Indians were not satisfied and insisted on a search saying they had been searched, so a search was made and the missing goods found beneath the floor.
     From the Coe diary we read of quantities of cedar shingles being taken from the Butler place, also of Henry L. Pittock, of Portland, and many others camping and hunting there.
     The Whitings moved to California in May 1861, and the Butler family followed later in the same year.
     The records show a child in each family born during their sojourn in the upper valley.
     Mr. Butler sold his place to William Odell.

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