Withycombe, James, 1854-1919.

Dates:

Birth 1854

Death 1919

Biographical notes:

James Withycombe was born in Devonshire, England in 1854. Educated in England, he came to Oregon in 1871. He studied agriculture and later became the director of the Oregon Agricultural College's experiment station. In 1900, Withycombe became a U.S. citizen. Withycombe won the Republican nomination for governor in 1914 and was eventually elected to two terms. He suddenly became ill and died on March 3, 1919.

From the description of James Withycombe papers, 1862-1919. (Oregon Historical Society Research Library). WorldCat record id: 36962276

James Withycombe was born in Tavistock, Devonshire, England in 1854. Educated in England, he came to Oregon in 1871 and eventually became a U.S. citizen in 1900. He settled in Hillsboro, Washington County, studied agriculture, and became a recognized agricultural expert. He served as the director of the Oregon Agricultural College's experiment station (later part of Oregon State University) and was credited for introducing alfalfa to Oregon.

In 1914 Withycombe was elected governor of Oregon on the Republican ticket. Serving throughout World War I, he promoted military service and helped the state reach 92 percent of its manpower quota in enlistment. He also organized the state's first military police force, signed a prohibition bill, and established the State Highway Commission in 1917 in an effort to improve Oregon's roads. He was re-elected in 1918 but died the following year from a heart ailment.

From the guide to the James Withycombe papers, 1862-1943, 1883-1919, (Oregon Historical Society)