Page:The Souvenir of Western Women.djvu/10

 braving all dangers and hardships, came with man to build homes and establish permanent settlements.

Let our debt of gratitude be now acknowledged and duly recorded, that those who come after us may know and value the deeds of the women who first trod these plains and valleys wherein we dwell. These pioneer women we herein represent, and transcribe upon the pages of history the story of their lives. Numbered among the writers of these chronicles is the second white child born in this unexplored land, Mrs. Eliza Spalding Warren, daughter of Rev. and Mrs. H. H. Spalding, missionaries of 1836. Among them, also are some of the pioneers of '43, '44 and '45, whose hands rocked the cradle of liberty in these Western wilds when the triple states carved out of the "Old Oregon" country were yet in embryo. Voices from the past, they enchant us with their fairy-like lore and heroic deeds.

That many, far as well as near, may share the charm of the last recitals of these old pioneers and catch the inspiration of their unflinching courage. The Souvenir would bear their messages through the land.

MARY OSBORN DOUTHIT. Portland, Oregon, May 1, 1905.