Cornelius, Thomas R., 1827-1899.

Thomas R. Cornelius, Oregon pioneer, soldier and politician, was born in Missouri and came to Oregon Territory with his family over the Oregon trail in 1845. The family settled on a farm on the Tualatin Plains, north of what would become the community of Cornelius. He fought in the Cayuse War of 1848 before going to California for the Gold Rush. He returned to Oregon in 1849 and In 1855, Cornelius volunteered for the militia to fight against the Yakima tribe. Cornelius led a company with the rank of captain before being elected as colonel. Cornelius continued as colonel until the end of the war in 1856. In 1856 he was elected to the territorial council, serving till the state was admitted. In 1862, he became colonel of the troops and they served at a military post at Walla Walla, Washington, where he assumed command. He resigned during the summer of 1862 and returned home. He served in several political positions in Oregon, including the State Senate and ran for Governor.

From the description of Cornelius Correspondence and Records, 1856-1864. (Spokane Public Library). WorldCat record id: 743224774