George Cole

George Cole was an American politician who served as a U.S. Representative for the at-large district of Washington from 1863 to 1865. A member of the Democratic Party, he played a significant role in the early political landscape of the Washington Territory and is noted for being the first delegate from the eastern part of the territory to serve in Congress. Following his congressional term, he was appointed as the Governor of the Washington Territory and later held various positions in the railroad industry and local government.

Early life and career

George Edward Cole was born on December 23, 1826, in Trenton, Oneida County, New York. His early education took place in public schools and at Hobart Hall Institute. After completing his studies, he began his career as a clerk in a country store, which provided him with foundational experience in commerce and public service.

In pursuit of greater opportunities, Cole moved to Illinois, where he lived for a time before heading to California during the gold rush of 1849. This journey marked a significant turning point in his life, as it led him to the Pacific Northwest. By 1850, he had arrived in the Oregon Territory, where he would begin to establish his political and professional career.

Cole quickly became involved in the political affairs of the Oregon Territory. He served as a member of the Oregon House of Representatives during the 1852-1853 legislative session. During this time, he emerged as a proponent of the movement to create a separate Washington Territory, which would eventually encompass what are now the states of Washington, Idaho, and parts of Montana. His efforts included drafting a memorial to Congress advocating for the establishment of the new territory. In addition to his political activities, Cole engaged in mercantile pursuits and steamboat transportation along the Willamette River. His legal acumen was recognized when he was appointed as the clerk of the United States District Court of Oregon in 1859 and 1860.

House tenure

In 1860, Cole relocated to Walla Walla, Washington, where he continued his political career. He was elected as the delegate to Congress from the Washington Territory in 1862, representing the Democratic Party. His congressional term began on March 4, 1863, and concluded on March 3, 1865, marking his sole term in the U.S. House of Representatives. During his time in Congress, Cole was notable for being the first delegate from the eastern side of the Washington Territory. His tenure was characterized by the challenges of representing a territory that was still in the process of establishing its identity and governance.

Cole's time in Congress was significant not only for his representation of the Washington Territory but also for the political landscape of the time. He was the last Democratic representative from the territory until 1885, reflecting the shifting political dynamics in the region. After completing his term, Cole chose not to seek renomination in 1864, concluding his direct involvement in federal legislative matters.

Legislative focus and committees

During his time in the House of Representatives, Cole's legislative focus was largely shaped by the needs and aspirations of the Washington Territory. As a delegate, he participated in discussions and initiatives aimed at addressing the unique challenges faced by the territory, including issues related to land, governance, and infrastructure development. His background in commerce and transportation likely influenced his perspectives on these matters, as he had firsthand experience in the economic development of the region.

Following his congressional service, Cole was appointed Governor of the Washington Territory by President Andrew Johnson in November 1866. He served in this capacity until March 4, 1867, during a period marked by significant political and social changes in the post-Civil War United States. His governorship allowed him to further influence the development of the territory, although his tenure was relatively brief.

After leaving the governorship, Cole returned to Portland, Oregon, where he became involved in the railroad industry. He played a crucial role in the operation of the Oregon & California Railroad, overseeing the construction of a line connecting Portland to Roseburg, Oregon. His work in the railroad sector demonstrated his ongoing commitment to infrastructure development, which was essential for the economic growth of the region.

In 1873, Cole was appointed Postmaster of Portland by President Ulysses S. Grant, a position he held for several years before being reappointed by President Rutherford B. Hayes in 1877. His work as postmaster further solidified his role in public service and local governance. After completing his term as postmaster, he transitioned to a position with the Northern Pacific Railroad, where he continued to contribute to the development of transportation in the Pacific Northwest until 1882.

Later in life, Cole moved to Spokane, Washington, in 1889, where he was elected as the county treasurer of Spokane County, serving two terms in that office. His involvement in local government and various business ventures, including interests in mining, manufacturing, and farming, reflected his diverse contributions to the economic and political landscape of the region.

George Cole passed away on December 3, 1906, in Portland, Oregon. His legacy is marked by his early contributions to the political framework of the Washington Territory and his subsequent roles in public service and the railroad industry. He is interred in Lone Fir Cemetery in Portland, where he is remembered as a significant figure in the history of Washington and its development during the 19th century.