Biography of John Erickson, 1902, Baker Co. Oregon: Surnames: Erickson, Johnson.

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Transcribed for use in USGenWeb Archives by:
W. David Samuelsen - November 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 330

John Erickson

Born in Arboga, Sweden, in 1829, he was left fatherless in early infancy, so
had to be cared for by persons not related to him. Naturally, under those
circumstances, he felt it incumbent upon him to attempt for himself the battle
of life as soon as possible, so when he became fifteen engaged in farm work
independently of all supervision by guardians. He was thus employed for about
half a decade, going then to Stockholm, where for a few years he was in the
service of a sugar refinery. He next worked in a gas factory, then in a
machine shop, learning a trade in the latter place. In 1864 he emigrated to
Quebec, Canada, and proceeding thence to Lake Superior, he there wrought for a
time in the copper and iron mines. In 1867 he removed to Illinois, in which
state and in Kansas he farmed until 1877, when he came to Union county,
Oregon. Eventually, he came thence into Pine valley, where he purchased a
quarter section of land, and to the cultivation and improvement of this he has
devoted his time and energies ever since. He is a diversified farmer,
producing almost all kinds of crops suitable to the soil and climate, as well
as cattle and horses. He is a thrifty, energetic man and a good citizen.

Politically, Mr. Erickson is a Republican, and he takes the interest everyone
should in the general welfare of the community, county and state. In 1867 he
married Miss Martha Johnson, a native of Sweden, and to their union have been
born two children, John J. and August, both at home.