Biography of John H. Couch, 1899, State of Oregon
Surnames: Couch, Flanders, Wilson, Lewis, Glisan

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Transcribed for use in USGenWeb Archives by:
W. David Samuelsen - December 2001
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Oregon Native Son, Vol. 1, May 1899, page 49

CAPTAIN JOHN H. COUCH.
Captain Couch was born February 21, 1811, at Newburyport, Mass. Upon arriving
at an age when he could set out for himself, he chose the seafaring life, and
until 1840 his voyages were confined to the waters of the Atlantic. In that
year he rounded the Horn in command of the brig Maryland, and was soon in the
waters of the Columbia. This vessel was sold in the Sandwich islands, when he
returned home. In 1843 his employers again sent him to this coast in the brig
Chenamus, and on his arrival at Oregon City he opened a general merchandise
store, remaining in charge of the same until 1847, in the meantime sending the
vessel back to its home port. In 1848 he was again at Newburyport, when he
received the commendation of his employers for his fidelity and prudence in
the management of their affairs in this far away section. Again they tendered
him further employment of a like nature, but he declined. He was, however,
prevailed upon to again return in the interests of another firm, and in
1849the Madonna unloaded cargo at Portland which he was to dispose of, leaving
the ship in command of Captain Geo. H. Flanders, his brother-in-law. After
Captain Flanders bad made several trips, he also gave up following the sea,
and went into copartnership with Captain Couch. This firm remained unbroken
until the death of the latter. Captain Couch was treasurer of the provisional
government; he was commissioner of Multnomah county; he was the first
appointee to the office of inspector of hulls, a position which he retained
under all administrations until his decease. After the organization of the
state government he served as port warden and pilot commissioner. In each and
every trust confided to him, never did a custodian more wisely, honestly and
with greater fidelity fulfill the duties devolving upon him. As in public
employment, so in private life. He was an exemplary citizen, and so genial and
whole-souled in disposition that he was personally known and esteemed by every
man, woman and child in Portland. What is known as Couch's addition to
Portland was his donation claim, but little of it now remains uncovered by
residences or buildings devoted to the various trades, manufactories and
enterprises known to the city. Early in life Captain Couch was married to Miss
Caroline E. Flanders. The union was blessed with four daughters, the three
eldest becoming the wives of Dr. R. B. Wilson, C. H. Lewis and Dr. Rodney
Glisan; the youngest, Miss Mary H., is a native daughter. Captain Couch died
January 19, 1870; his wife survived him until July 19, 1885.

Mrs. Couch was also born in Newburyport, Mass. She was a little over three
years older than her husband, having been born October 24, 1807.

Of all the people who have been Oregonians, and especially residents of
Portland, none were more highly esteemed during life, or their death more
regretted, than this pioneer father and mother.