Biography of John J. Dooley, 1902, Baker Co. Oregon: Surnames: Dooley, Knapp, Colt

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Transcribed for use in USGenWeb Archives by:
W. David Samuelsen - December 2001
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An Illustrated History of Baker, Grant, Malheur and Harney Counties, pub. 1902
by Western Historical Pub. Co. of Chicago. page 285

John J. Dooley

John J. Dooley was born in Utica, Oneida county, New York, on March 14, 1838,
and there passed the first sixteen years of his life. Then he came to Chicago
and learned the machinist's trade and engaged as an engineer on the Galen &
Chicago Union Railroad, now the Northwestern, where he remained for nine
years. In 1862 he crossed the plains with ox and horse teams, settling in
Auburn, then the county seat of Baker county, and a town of two thousand and
five hundred inhabitants, in August, the time of his arrival, but before the
winter set in the number of people had increased to five thousand. Here he
took up mining for six years and then was appointed collector of internal
revenue for Idaho, and during his incumbency in this office, two years, he
resided in Idaho City. Following this he built the toll road over the
mountains known as the Dooley toll road, and to the operation of this he
devoted his time and energies for twenty years. It was one of the leading
industries of the county and it facilitated communication with the surrounding
country and was of inestimable benefit. After this work he removed to Baker
City and engaged in raising sheep until six years ago, when he retired form
active participation in business and sought more quiet for the golden years of
his career, while he enjoys the fruit of his industry. He owns a handsome
residence at 2043 Grove street in the city, where he dwells at the present
time. Mr. Dooley has taken an active interest in the affairs of his county and
state and city, being always allied with the Republican party. He is a member
of the A.O.U.W. and has served as deputy grand master for a number of years.
His interest in the welfare of this order is unflagging and he has done much
to promote its advancement. He also affiliates with the I.O.O.F. When he
crossed the plains there was much fighting with the Indians, but with no loss
of life to the immigrants.

The marriage of Mr. Dooley and Miss Phoeba, daughter of Asa and Philura Knapp,
old pioneers of Illinois, was solemnized in Chicago on December 25, 1861, and
they have become the parents of the following children: Lilah, wife of Porter
S. Colt of Mormon Basin and it is said that she is the first white child born
in Baker county, her birth being on November 3, 1862; Albert G., deceased;
John F. married and in the mercantile business in Baker City; Emma, deceased;
Frank R., clerking for Weil & Company of this city; Nora M., preparing for a
professional nurse; Asa Knapp; Margaret A.

Mr. Dooley served as deputy sheriff in the fall of 1862 of this county and in
that as in all his other public service, as well as private walk, he has ever
demeaned himself with such wisdom, integrity and uprightness that he has won
the confidence and esteem of all who may have the pleasure of his
acquaintance.