The Douglas independent. [volume] (Roseburg, Or.) 187?-1885, 1883-11-17
From Cow Greek.

In this valley Of hills and wales
known far and near as the Umpqua
valley, there is no spot more beautiful
and fertile than the lower Cow creek
valley.
This valley is six miles in length
and about one and half mile in width
Is covered with rich alluvial soil, the
cultivation of which comprises the prin-
cipal occupation of its inhabitants.
The valley was settled in 1851, the
first donation claim being taken by w.
G. Hearn. The first family to settle
here was that of VIM. Ell. Riddle who
took his donation claim in 1851. A
short time after settling he was fol-
lowed by John Catching, with the sec
ond family to locate in the valley.
Both these gentlemen still reside here
The Indians who occupied this soil were
separate and distinct tribe from the
Umpquas and doubtless sprang from
the Rogue river Indians, as they spoke
the same language. In treaty that
was made between Indians and whites
shortly after the settlements were
made, the Indians were given that part
of the valley which now comprises the
farm Of Mr.. Dean, the falls of the
creek for fishing and the mountains for
hunting. They were also given yoke
of oxen. 1t was amusing to the set
tiers to see them hitch the oxen to
large brush and drive around with as
many children as could find room to
hold on AS much enjoyment was af
forded them, no doubt, by these rides
as buggy or sleigh-ride would to the
children of our more enlightened day.
By the use Of these oxen the Indians
broke the ground and raised grain which
served as food to the horses of the vol
unteers in the war which followed, and
the oxen made good beef fol the men,
1t was here that the Indians started on
their memorable raid through Civil
Bend, Tenmile and Olalla, where an en-
gagement was had, in which the Indian
chief was killed and his followers rout-
ed. In this raid much property was
destroyed and we understand the men
who suffered SO heavily are at last be-
ing allowed damages for the loss sus-
tanned. At the close Of the war tho
Cow creek Indians were removed to
the Rogue river county, and nothing
since has transpired to mar the pros
perity of the settlers.
Agriculture is the principle industry,
, but in correction with this mining has
been quite extensively engaged in.
: Gold is found in paying quantities. A
/ nickel mine is being developed and
} promises to be success, also copper
and iron are found. A steam sawmin
is being erected by Hans Weaver
, Until recently they possessed no out.
, let, but III 1892 the railroad was ex-
e tended through the valley and now the
3 iron horse daily plunges By, carrying
all produce and affording a market fol
=. it. A station has been established
here, called Riddle, from the donation
of the land on which 1T stands. Here
!, may be found store, two hotels, anc
a building in which one may deposi
his change and. receive in return the
: cup which Is death to the soul and tt
all true manhood Several residence.
have been erected and the people arr
talking of organizing school for the
+ winter, which should be done.
d The people have been progressive II
J, the past and no doubt will continue tt
= be SO in the futures III. S. S.