Page:Oregon Historical Quarterly volume 25.djvu/116

98 the mission, later called the Whitman Mission, was established. The Oregon Provisional Government waged the war of 1847-8, growing out of the Whitman massacre, followed by the capture and execution of the murderers concerned with the massacre.

Oregon was admitted as a state February 14, 1859, at which time it had a population of about 53,000. While the temptation is great, time will not permit of more than this brief reference to a few of the high points in the history of the Northwest.

The Circuit Rider is a particularly fond memory to the pioneers. It is but natural that this should be so. And we are now gathered together to join in dedicating this magnificent and lifelike memorial to his life and character. It is peculiarly fitting that the state owes this splendid gift to the patriotism and generosity of Robert A. Booth, a pioneer and the son of a pioneer Circuit Rider. It is a great pleasure, a great satisfaction, for me to have the opportunity of joining in this unveiling, and I appreciate the great compliment paid me in asking me to speak on this occasion. No words of mine can add anything to the standing and character as a citizen and as a man of one I am honored in calling my friend, Robert A. Booth. His life is a part of the history and growth of his native state and his example an inspiration to all who know him or have come within the influence of his life. His desire is to perpetuate the memory of all the early missionaries of whatever race or creed. While this memorial was inspired by the love and reverence 'Mr. Booth bore his father, it is not intended to commemorate any individual, but is erected in honor of all who honored the greatest call that can come to a man. Notwithstanding this desire of Mr. Booth, there are occasions, there are times, where history and the future require facts to be stated. In this instance I feel certain everyone at once will concede the propriety. It makes this occasion doubly interesting for all to know that the father of Mr. Booth was a pioneer Circuit Rider, one of the type I have tried