Archives West Finding Aid

Ruth Karr McKee (1874-1951) was the daughter of James and Abigail Walker Karr, and granddaughter of Presbyterian missionaries Mary and Elkanah Walker. Born in Hoquiam, WA, she was a graduate of the University of Washington, earning both Bachelors and Masters degrees, and was active in civic affairs. She served as President of the Federation of Women's Clubs of Washington (1913-1915). In 1945, she published a book based on Mary Richardson Walker's diaries, "Mary Richardson Walker: Her Book" (Caldwell, ID: Caxton Printers).

Elkanah (1805-1877) and Mary Richardson (1811-1897) Walker were one of six missionary couples (plus one single man) sent by the American Board of Commissioners for Foreign Missions to the Oregon Mission. The Walkers and another couple, Cushing and Myra Eells, established the mission at Tshimakain, near the present day town of Ford, Washington, to work with the Spokane Indians. The Walkers later moved to the Willamette Valley of Oregon.