Western Oregon University Archives
Hamersly Library
345 N. Monmouth Avenue
Monmouth, OR 97361
http://wou.edu/provost/library/archives/
libarchives@wou.edu
MSS 3
Burch family
Burch Family Papers
1821-1892
1846-1858
2 linear feet
1 oversize box
The Burch Family Papers is a collection of 65 original letters of mostly handwritten correspondence to Benjamin Franklin Burch of Rickreall, Polk County, Oregon. Included with the correspondence are handwritten legal and financial records and documents.
Collection materials are in English.
Letters are in fragile condition.
Biographical Note
Benjamin Franklin Burch was born on May 2, 1825 in Carlton County, Missouri. In 1845, he crossed the plains to Oregon, settling in Polk County. He was a teacher in the first school in Polk County, one of the earliest schools in Oregon. Burch served in the Oregon Territory Volunteer Militia in the Cayuse and Yakima Indian wars and attained the rank of captain.
He was a delegate to the constitutional convention from Polk County in 1857 and served on the Military Affairs Committee and on a select committee with La Fayette Grover and James Kelly to create a design for the state seal. Burch was elected to serve in the state house of representatives during the first legislative session in 1859. Later he served in the state senate from 1867 to 1870, (senate president in the 1868 session.) In 1877 Burch was appointed superintendent of the state penitentiary by Governor Stephen F. Chadwick, serving two terms. Also in 1887 he was appointed receiver of the land offices in Oregon City by President Cleveland.
Burch was a charter member of the Masons lodge in Independence in 1859. Following his death in 1893, he was buried in a lodge ceremony at the Burch Pioneer Cemetery in Rickreall, Polk County, Oregon.
Text adapted partially from "Biographical Sketch of Benjamin F. Burch", an online exhibit of the Oregon State Archives, http://arcweb.sos.state.or.us/pages/exhibits/1857/during/bios/burch.htm
The collection is largely handwritten correspondence to Benjamin Franklin Burch of Rickreall, Polk County, Oregon. The collection contains family records and correspondence; military correspondence and documents; political correspondence and documents; estate papers for Samuel Burch, John Townshend and Jordan Sisk; and other financial documents and receipts. The collection also contains a few items to note, including correspondence related to the Civil War, military orders from the Indian Wars, and speeches on the admission of Oregon to statehood.
The collection is arranged in one box. Because of the relationship to Western Oregon University and Polk County and the age of the documents, this collection is described at the item level. The collection is arranged into five series, each arranged chronologically within each folder. The five series are: Series I: Family records and correspondence; Series II: Military correspondence and documents; Series III: Political correspondence and records; Series IV: Estate papers; and Series V: Financial documents and receipts. The collection also includes photocopies of the entire collection for preservation purposes.
Photocopies of all items available for research.
Collection is available for research.
For further information, see the Western Oregon University Archives Research Rules.
Copyright Information: Researchers are hereby cautioned that materials within archival and manuscript collections may be protected by copyright laws (Title 17, U.S. code). Researchers who plan to eventually publish their work are responsible to inquire about publication restrictions before beginning their research. Researchers wishing to quote from materials in any collections held by University Archives should consult the University Archivist. Reproduction of any item must contain a complete citation to the original.
Burch Family Papers, MSS 3, Western Oregon University Archives
Collection donated by the Burch family to University President Rice in July 1969.
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</bibliography>
<relatedmaterial encodinganalog="5441_">
<p>Materials related to the founding families of Monmouth University and the city of Monmouth are located in University Archives records.</p>
</relatedmaterial>
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<controlaccess>
<p>This collection is indexed under the following headings in the online
catalog. Researchers desiring materials about related topics, persons, or
places should search the catalog using these headings.</p>
<controlaccess>
<persname role="subject" source="dacs" encodinganalog="600">Burch, Benjamin Franklin</persname>
<persname role="subject" source="dacs" encodinganalog="600">Burch, Samuel</persname>
<persname role="subject" source="dacs" encodinganalog="600">Townshend, John</persname>
<persname role="subject" source="dacs" encodinganalog="600">Sisk, Jordan</persname>
</controlaccess>
<controlaccess>
<famname role="subject" source="dacs" encodinganalog="600">
Burch family
</famname>
</controlaccess>
<controlaccess>
<geogname role="subject" source="lcsh" encodinganalog="651">Polk County (Or.)--History</geogname>
<geogname role="subject" source="dacs" encodinganalog="651">Rickreall (Or.)</geogname>
<geogname role="subject" source="dacs" encodinganalog="651">Dallas (Or.)</geogname>
<geogname role="subject" source="dacs" encodinganalog="651">Monmouth (Or.) </geogname>
<geogname role="subject" source="dacs" encodinganalog="651">Independence (Or.)</geogname>
<geogname role="subject" source="dacs" encodinganalog="651">Oregon Territory</geogname>
</controlaccess>
<controlaccess>
<subject encodinganalog="650">Military--Oregon</subject>
<subject encodinganalog="650">Cayuse Indians--Wars</subject>
<subject encodinganalog="650">Frontier and pioneer life--Oregon</subject>
</controlaccess>
<controlaccess>
<subject source="archiveswest" altrender="nodisplay" encodinganalog="690">Oregon</subject>
<subject source="archiveswest" altrender="nodisplay" encodinganalog="690">Civil Procedure and Courts</subject>
<subject source="archiveswest" altrender="nodisplay" encodinganalog="690">Pioneers</subject>
<subject source="archiveswest" altrender="nodisplay" encodinganalog="690">Salem</subject>
<subject source="archiveswest" altrender="nodisplay" encodinganalog="690">Military</subject>
<subject source="archiveswest" altrender="nodisplay" encodinganalog="690">Territorial Government</subject>
<subject source="archiveswest" altrender="nodisplay" encodinganalog="690">Religion</subject>
</controlaccess>
<controlaccess>
<genreform encodinganalog="655">Newspapers</genreform>
<genreform encodinganalog="655">Correspondence</genreform>
<genreform encodinganalog="655">Letters (correspondence)</genreform>
</controlaccess>
</controlaccess>
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<dsc type="combined">
<c01 level="series">
<did>
<unitid encodinganalog="099" type="series">I</unitid>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Family records and correspondence</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="1821/1858">1821-1858</unitdate>
</did>
<c02 level="item">
<did>
<container type="box">1</container>
<container type="folder">1</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Deed of land sale to Samuel Burch by Thomas and Elizabeth Blacklock</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="18210717">July 17, 1821</unitdate>
</did>
<scopecontent encodinganalog="5202_">
<p>Regarding indentured land in Grayson County, Kentucky</p>
</scopecontent>
</c02>
<c02 level="item">
<did>
<container type="box">1</container>
<container type="folder">1</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Certificate of membership for Samuel and Eleanor S. Burch</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="184703">March 1847</unitdate>
</did>
<scopecontent encodinganalog="5202_">
<p>Membership in the Methodist Episcopal Church South in Keytesville, Missouri</p>
</scopecontent>
</c02>
<c02 level="item">
<did>
<container type="box">1</container>
<container type="folder">1</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Certificate of membership for Lucy A. Burch</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="184703">March 1847</unitdate>
</did>
<scopecontent encodinganalog="5202_">
<p>Membership in the Methodist Episcopal Church South in Keytesville, Missouri</p>
</scopecontent>
</c02>
<c02 level="item">
<did>
<container type="box">1</container>
<container type="folder">1</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Land Claim survey report by A.R. Flint with paid receipt for claimed land by John W. Burch</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="18520522">May 22, 1852</unitdate>
</did>
<scopecontent encodinganalog="5202_">
<p>Drawing and land claim description folded inside for 320 acres along Cow Creek claimed by J.W. Burch and stitched together with thread.</p>
</scopecontent>
</c02>
<c02 level="item">
<did>
<container type="box">1</container>
<container type="folder">1</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Letter to Samuel Burch and wife (Rickreall, Oregon Territory) from son, Jon T. Burch (Forks Chariton)</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="18540407">April 7, 1854</unitdate>
</did>
<scopecontent encodinganalog="5202_">
<p>Letter regarding the death of Jon's wife. Description of the community dissension of Bentons and anti-Bentons and the effect of the railroads in Missouri.</p>
</scopecontent>
</c02>
<c02 level="item">
<did>
<container type="box">1</container>
<container type="folder">1</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Letter to B.F. Burch from Phoebe A. Burch</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="18540817">August 17, 1854</unitdate>
</did>
<scopecontent encodinganalog="5202_">
<p>Regarding family health and describing the drought in Missouri.</p>
</scopecontent>
</c02>
<c02 level="item">
<did>
<container type="box">1</container>
<container type="folder">1</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Letter to B.F. Burch from John D. Lock (Missouri)</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="18540825">August 25, 1854</unitdate>
</did>
<scopecontent encodinganalog="5202_">
<p>Regarding death of Samuel Burch, general crop news, and political support of abolitionist congressman Col. Benton.</p>
</scopecontent>
</c02>
<c02 level="item">
<did>
<container type="box">1</container>
<container type="folder">1</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Letter to Samuel Burch (Oregon City) from Jonathan Burch (Keytesville, Missouri)</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="18550311">March 11, 1855</unitdate>
</did>
<scopecontent encodinganalog="5202_">
<p>Regarding family health, crop prices and debt, Asian Cholera epidemic in St. Louis and Chariton County, and the desire to move to Oregon.</p>
</scopecontent>
</c02>
<c02 level="item">
<did>
<container type="box">1</container>
<container type="folder">1</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Letter to Franklin Burch from Jonathan Burch</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="18551125">November 25, 1855</unitdate>
</did>
<scopecontent encodinganalog="5202_">
<p>Regarding family health, tensions between Methodists and Baptists and between North and South sympathizers, crop prices and Townshend estate settlement distribution.</p>
</scopecontent>
</c02>
<c02 level="item">
<did>
<container type="box">1</container>
<container type="folder">1</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Letter to Franklin Burch and wife from Margaret E. Lock</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="18580725">July 25, 1858</unitdate>
</did>
<scopecontent encodinganalog="5202_">
<p>Describes family health, relations between the Methodist and Baptists, a Negro lynching and a list of her children.</p>
</scopecontent>
</c02>
</c01>
<c01 level="series">
<did>
<unitid encodinganalog="099" type="series">II</unitid>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Military correspondence and documents</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="1848/1857">1848-1857</unitdate>
</did>
<scopecontent encodinganalog="5202_">
<p>Military correspondence and documents are primarily from 1856 when Benjamin F. Burch was in the Oregon Territorial Volunteer Militia.</p>
</scopecontent>
<c02 level="item">
<did>
<container type="box">1</container>
<container type="folder">2</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Envelope written to the Honorable Sam Burch (Rickreall, Polk County, Oregon)</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="1911">1911</unitdate>
</did>
</c02>
<c02 level="item">
<did>
<container type="box">1</container>
<container type="folder">2</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Letter to Sam Burch from Jennie Nesmith Ankeny (Walla Walla, Washington)</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="19110615">June 15, 1911</unitdate>
</did>
<scopecontent encodinganalog="5202_">
<p>Regarding an 1848 letter the Oregon Territory Governor</p>
</scopecontent>
</c02>
<c02 level="item">
<did>
<container type="box">1</container>
<container type="folder">2</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Letter to Col. C. Gilliam, 1st Regiment, Oregon Riflemen from Abernathy, Governor of Oregon Territory</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="184801">January 1848</unitdate>
</did>
<scopecontent encodinganalog="5202_">
<p>Introducing Mr. I.M. Gilbert with recommendation for discharge from services to become a river pilot</p>
</scopecontent>
</c02>
<c02 level="item">
<did>
<container type="box">1</container>
<container type="folder">2</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Letter to B.F. Burch, Esq. from F.S. Owens and J.L. Meek</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="18480324">March 24, 1848</unitdate>
</did>
<scopecontent encodinganalog="5202_">
<p>Regarding travel conditions to Fort Hall via Fort Boise along the Oregon Trail</p>
</scopecontent>
</c02>
<c02 level="item">
<did>
<container type="box">1</container>
<container type="folder">2</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Letter to Benjamin F. Burch Esq. (Polk County) from R. Wilcox (Portland)</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="18480628">June 28, 1848</unitdate>
</did>
<scopecontent encodinganalog="5202_">
<p>Regarding missed meeting and Army operations</p>
</scopecontent>
</c02>
<c02 level="item">
<did>
<container type="box">1</container>
<container type="folder">2</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">General Military Order Number 26 sent to Territory of Oregon Headquarters by the governor</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="18560126">January 26, 1856</unitdate>
</did>
<scopecontent encodinganalog="5202_">
<p>Directing troops to assemble and proceed to Eastern Oregon</p>
</scopecontent>
</c02>
<c02 level="item">
<did>
<container type="box">1</container>
<container type="folder">2</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Draft of letter written by Benjamin F. Burch in Dallas to Company B, R.B.O.M. Vols</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="18560417">April 17, 1856</unitdate>
</did>
<scopecontent encodinganalog="5202_">
<p>Regarding his leaving military duty due to health complications</p>
</scopecontent>
</c02>
<c02 level="item">
<did>
<container type="box">1</container>
<container type="folder">2</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Receipt from the I.M. Department to Capt. Burch (Salem)</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="18560424">April 24, 1856</unitdate>
</did>
<scopecontent encodinganalog="5202_">
<p>Receipt for 1 coat and 1 pair of boots</p>
</scopecontent>
</c02>
<c02 level="item">
<did>
<container type="box">1</container>
<container type="folder">2</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Military supply order</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="18560505">May 5, 1856</unitdate>
</did>
</c02>
<c02 level="item">
<did>
<container type="box">1</container>
<container type="folder">2</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Handwritten copy of Special Military Order from Portland Army Headquarters notice of troop disbandment and disposal of military property</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="18560510">May 10, 1856</unitdate>
</did>
</c02>
<c02 level="item">
<did>
<container type="box">1</container>
<container type="folder">2</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Certificate of military appointment of F.F. Daniel, signed by B.F. Harding (acting governor of Oregon Territory)</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="18560801">August 1, 1856</unitdate>
</did>
</c02>
<c02 level="item">
<did>
<container type="box">1</container>
<container type="folder">2</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Letter to Captain B.F. Burch (Independence, Oregon) from B.F. Dowell (Washington City, DC) inquiring about reclaiming of land lost in the Oregon War and recommending attorney John S. Edwards, Esq. for legal assistance</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="18570416">April 16, 1857</unitdate>
</did>
</c02>
</c01>
<c01 level="series">
<did>
<unitid encodinganalog="099" type="series">III</unitid>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Political correspondence and records</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="1842/1859">1842-1859</unitdate>
</did>
<c02 level="item">
<did>
<container type="box">1</container>
<container type="folder">3</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Draft of witness letter attesting signature of Edward B. Cabell as county court elected official for Chariton County, State of Missouri</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="1842">1842</unitdate>
</did>
</c02>
<c02 level="item">
<did>
<container type="box">1</container>
<container type="folder">3</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Declaration on cloth "TO THE WORLD!!" stating defamation of character by J. Quinn Thornton toward James W. Nesmith (Oregon City)</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="18470607">June 7, 1847</unitdate>
</did>
</c02>
<c02 level="item">
<did>
<container type="box">1</container>
<container type="folder">3</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Letter to Benjamin F. Burch from William N. Burch (Washington D.C.)</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="18540129">January 29, 1854</unitdate>
</did>
<scopecontent encodinganalog="5202_">
<p>Describes the work of Joseph Lane for Oregon's admittance to the Union</p>
</scopecontent>
</c02>
<c02 level="item">
<did>
<container type="box">1</container>
<container type="folder">3</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Letter to B.F. Burch from O.C. Pratt (Linn City, Oregon Territory)</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="18541020">October 20, 1854</unitdate>
</did>
<scopecontent encodinganalog="5202_">
<p>Regarding his willingness to be the Democratic nominee to Congress and Senator Joseph Lane's aspiration to the presidency</p>
</scopecontent>
</c02>
<c02 level="item">
<did>
<container type="box">1</container>
<container type="folder">3</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Letter to B.F. Burch from C.A. Holcomb (Clackamas County Sheriff)</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="18580309">March 9, 1858</unitdate>
</did>
<scopecontent encodinganalog="5202_">
<p>Regarding investigations of the Methodist Church, pro-slavery and abolitionism</p>
</scopecontent>
</c02>
<c02 level="item">
<did>
<container type="box">1</container>
<container type="folder">3</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Printed transcript Hon. Alexander H. Stephens (Georgia) sent to B.F. Burch (Rickreall)</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="1859">1859</unitdate>
</did>
<scopecontent encodinganalog="5202_">
<p>On the admission of Oregon to statehood</p>
</scopecontent>
</c02>
<c02 level="item">
<did>
<container type="box">1</container>
<container type="folder">3</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Printed transcript of Hon. Joseph Lane (Oregon) sent to B.F. Burch (Rickreall)</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="1859">1859</unitdate>
</did>
<scopecontent encodinganalog="5202_">
<p>Copy of his speech on admission of Oregon to statehood</p>
</scopecontent>
</c02>
<c02 level="item">
<did>
<container type="box">1</container>
<container type="folder">3</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Printed Prohibition Broadside anti-saloon league, titled "The Reason Why"</unittitle>
</did>
</c02>
<c02 level="item">
<did>
<container type="box">1</container>
<container type="folder">3</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Printed broadside "Herald--Extra!: The $300,000 Swindle. Holladay wants to be Reimbursed his Election Expenses"</unittitle>
</did>
<scopecontent encodinganalog="5202_">
<p>Describes the proposal by Ben Holladay to extract funds from the Oregon Legislature for campaign expenses after his loss in a congressional seat election.</p>
</scopecontent>
</c02>
</c01>
<c01 level="series">
<did>
<unitid encodinganalog="099" type="series">IV</unitid>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Estate papers</unittitle>
</did>
<scopecontent encodinganalog="5202_">
<p>Twenty letters and handwritten documents pertaining to the three probate estates; Samuel Burch, John Townshend (Townsend), and Jordan M. Sisk. Samuel Burch was the father of Benjamin F. Burch. John Townshend (Townsend) was a relative of Samuel Burch and named as an heir to the estate. His estate was still in probate dispute when Samuel Burch died. </p>
</scopecontent>
<c02 level="subseries">
<did>
<unitid encodinganalog="099" type="Subseries">1</unitid>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Samuel Burch</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="1845/1858">1845-1858</unitdate>
</did>
<c03 level="item">
<did>
<container type="box">1</container>
<container type="folder">4</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Call to Elisha M. Daniel to witness the opening of the Samuel Burch estate papers by Eleanor and Benjamin Burch</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="18450515">May 15, 1845</unitdate>
</did>
</c03>
<c03 level="item">
<did>
<container type="box">1</container>
<container type="folder">4</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Land claim certificate of property along the Willamette River in Polk County by Samuel Burch</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="18471028">October 28, 1847</unitdate>
</did>
</c03>
<c03 level="item">
<did>
<container type="box">1</container>
<container type="folder">4</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Receipt of land claim purchase paid to Joshua M.J. Daniel by Samuel Burch for land in Ricrol (Rickreall)</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="18471008">October 8, 1847</unitdate>
</did>
</c03>
<c03 level="item">
<did>
<container type="box">1</container>
<container type="folder">4</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Probate Court declaration for the estate of Samuel Burch with Probate Court embossed seal signed by Judge John Iseckson</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="18540515">May 15, 1854</unitdate>
</did>
</c03>
<c03 level="item">
<did>
<container type="box">1</container>
<container type="folder">4</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">2 copies of Administrators of Sale notice by Benjamin F. Burch for the property of Samuel Burch</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="18540516">May 16, 1854</unitdate>
</did>
</c03>
<c03 level="item">
<did>
<container type="box">1</container>
<container type="folder">4</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Certification of Benjamin F. Burch as the executor of the Samuel Burch estate with Probate Court embossed seal, signed by James Taylor, Probate Judge of Polk County</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="18540905">September 5, 1854</unitdate>
</did>
</c03>
<c03 level="item">
<did>
<container type="box">1</container>
<container type="folder">4</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Letter by Benjamin F. Burch as administrator of the Samuel Burch estate, witnessed by Ruben P. Boise, Associate Judge of the Supreme Court of Oregon Territory and certified by B.F. Harding, Secretary of Oregon Territory</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="18580202">February 2, 1858</unitdate>
</did>
<scopecontent encodinganalog="5202_">
<p>Gives Joseph Lane power of attorney in the estate of John Townshend estate</p>
</scopecontent>
</c03>
</c02>
<c02 level="subseries">
<did>
<unitid encodinganalog="099" type="Subseries">2</unitid>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">John Townsend</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="1855/1892">1855-1892</unitdate>
</did>
<c03 level="item">
<did>
<container type="box">1</container>
<container type="folder">5</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Letter to the Honorable Henry May, House of Representatives (Upper Marlboro) from Daniel C Digges</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="18550119">January 19, 1855</unitdate>
</did>
<scopecontent encodinganalog="5202_">
<p>Regarding the Townshend of Maryland estate litigation and a request to speak with Mr.( Charles) Faulkner on his behalf</p>
</scopecontent>
</c03>
<c03 level="item">
<did>
<container type="box">1</container>
<container type="folder">5</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Letter to Benjamin Burch (unsigned from Washington City) regarding the John Townsend of Maryland estate settlement, unsigned</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="18550201">February 1, 1855</unitdate>
</did>
</c03>
<c03 level="item">
<did>
<container type="box">1</container>
<container type="folder">5</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Letter to B.F. Burch Esq. (Oregon) from Joseph Lane (Washington City) regarding the estate of John Townsend of Maryland</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="18550210">February 10, 1855</unitdate>
</did>
<scopecontent encodinganalog="5202_">
<p>An undated attached note to General Lane from the case attorney, G. Fitz stating the Townsend case sided with the heirs.</p>
</scopecontent>
</c03>
<c03 level="item">
<did>
<container type="box">1</container>
<container type="folder">5</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Letter to Benjamin F. Burch, Esq. from Vivien Burch (Baltimore) regarding the settlement progress on the John Townshend of Maryland estate</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="18550721">July 21, 1855</unitdate>
</did>
</c03>
<c03 level="item">
<did>
<container type="box">1</container>
<container type="folder">5</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Appointment letter of Joseph Lane as attorney for Eleanor S. and Benjamin F. Burch (Polk County) for the John Townshend estate with witness verification statements</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="185802">February 1858</unitdate>
</did>
</c03>
<c03 level="item">
<did>
<container type="box">1</container>
<container type="folder">5</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Letter to B.F. Burch (Independence) from Joseph Lane (Washington) regarding the Townsend of Maryland estate settlement</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="18580502">May 2, 1858</unitdate>
</did>
</c03>
<c03 level="item">
<did>
<container type="box">1</container>
<container type="folder">5</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Letter to Samuel Burch from Joseph Lane (Washington City) regarding the Townsend of Maryland estate settlement.</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="18920223">February 23, 1892</unitdate>
</did>
<scopecontent encodinganalog="5202_">
<p>Letter is dictated with salutation and signature of Joseph Lane</p>
</scopecontent>
</c03>
</c02>
<c02 level="subseries">
<did>
<unitid encodinganalog="099" type="Subseries">3</unitid>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Jordan M. Sisk</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="1853/1855">1853-1855</unitdate>
</did>
<c03 level="item">
<did>
<container type="box">1</container>
<container type="folder">6</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Affidavit of John E Davidson stating the residency of Jordan M. Sisk residing on land claim in Polk County</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="18530418">April 18, 1853</unitdate>
</did>
</c03>
<c03 level="item">
<did>
<container type="box">1</container>
<container type="folder">6</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Probate Court declaration for the estate of Jordan M Sisk with Probate Court embossed seal signed by Judge A.B. Boone, Judge of Probate</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="18531123">November 23, 1853</unitdate>
</did>
</c03>
<c03 level="item">
<did>
<container type="box">1</container>
<container type="folder">6</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Letter to Benjamin F and Eliza Burch from W.B. and Sarah Sisk regarding the power of attorney of John Davidson and the estate of their son Jordan M. Sisk</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="18540508">May 8, 1854</unitdate>
</did>
</c03>
<c03 level="item">
<did>
<container type="box">1</container>
<container type="folder">6</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Document letter giving power of attorney to Benjamin F Burch to act on the behalf of William B. Sisk and Sarah Sisk to claim the estate holdings of Jordan M Sisk</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="18550310">March 10, 1855</unitdate>
</did>
</c03>
<c03 level="item">
<did>
<container type="box">1</container>
<container type="folder">6</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Proclamation letter from James Taylor, Judge of Probate (Dallas, Polk County) regarding payment of $500 to William Sisk, sole heir of the Jordan M. Sisk estate</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="18550506">May 6, 1855</unitdate>
</did>
</c03>
<c03 level="item">
<did>
<container type="box">1</container>
<container type="folder">6</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Letter to B.F. Burch, Esq. from R. Wilcox (Oregon City) regarding the gold mine in the Sisk estate</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="18550822">August 22, 1855</unitdate>
</did>
</c03>
</c02>
</c01>
<c01 level="series">
<did>
<unitid encodinganalog="099" type="series">V</unitid>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Financial documents and receipts</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="1843/1865">1843-1865</unitdate>
</did>
<scopecontent encodinganalog="5202_">
<p>As a businessman, Burch kept receipts of financial transactions which include paid territorial county taxes, a legal judgment, promissory notes for accounts payable and received, sale and purchase of goods, and a Wells Fargo cashier's draft.
</p>
</scopecontent>
<c02 level="item">
<did>
<container type="box">1</container>
<container type="folder">7</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Receipt for refund to Charles H. Burch on a promissory note to William F. Wallace</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="18431212">December 12, 1843</unitdate>
</did>
</c02>
<c02 level="item">
<did>
<container type="box">1</container>
<container type="folder">7</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Payment receipt paid from Samuel Burch</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="18461223">December 23, 1846</unitdate>
</did>
</c02>
<c02 level="item">
<did>
<container type="box">1</container>
<container type="folder">7</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Promissory note to pay goods and oxen from C.H. Haslet to J.W. Burch</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="18471204">December 4, 1847</unitdate>
</did>
</c02>
<c02 level="item">
<did>
<container type="box">1</container>
<container type="folder">7</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">American and Unionist subscription receipt paid by Samuel Burch, signed by agent G.W. Coffenberry</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="18480601">June 1, 1848</unitdate>
</did>
</c02>
<c02 level="item">
<did>
<container type="box">1</container>
<container type="folder">7</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Receipt for a legal judgment in favor of Major Horner from James S. Foster and John W. Burch</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="18480811">August 11, 1848</unitdate>
</did>
</c02>
<c02 level="item">
<did>
<container type="box">1</container>
<container type="folder">7</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Promissory note to pay Dr. Lewis Myer $1200 at 10% interest from Michael Colmer witnessed by Mr. Burch</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="18490606">June 6, 1849</unitdate>
</did>
</c02>
<c02 level="item">
<did>
<container type="box">1</container>
<container type="folder">7</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Tax receipt for Territorial County & school tax paid by Samuel Burch, signed James L Holman</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="1850">1850</unitdate>
</did>
</c02>
<c02 level="item">
<did>
<container type="box">1</container>
<container type="folder">7</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Tax receipt for Territorial County & school tax paid by Samuel Burch, signed W.S. Gilliam, collector</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="1851">1851</unitdate>
</did>
</c02>
<c02 level="item">
<did>
<container type="box">1</container>
<container type="folder">7</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Tax receipts in two payments for Territorial County & school tax paid by S. Burch, signed B.F. Nichols, Sheriff of Polk County</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="1852">1852</unitdate>
</did>
</c02>
<c02 level="item">
<did>
<container type="box">1</container>
<container type="folder">7</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Tax receipt for Territorial County & school tax paid by Samuel Burch, signed B.F. Nichols, Sheriff of Polk County</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="1853">1853</unitdate>
</did>
</c02>
<c02 level="item">
<did>
<container type="box">1</container>
<container type="folder">7</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Sales receipt for apples sold to Miller Bernsteel by Benjamin F Burch in Independence, O.T.</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="18580719">July 19, 1858</unitdate>
</did>
</c02>
<c02 level="item">
<did>
<container type="box">1</container>
<container type="folder">7</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Sales receipt for Salem Printing and Publishing Company paid by B.F. Burch, signed by John H Miller, director in Salem, Oregon</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="18640728">July 28, 1864</unitdate>
</did>
</c02>
<c02 level="item">
<did>
<container type="box">1</container>
<container type="folder">7</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Wells, Fargo and Co. cashiers draft to Capt B.F. Burch for $650</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="18650914">September 14, 1865</unitdate>
</did>
</c02>
<c02 level="item">
<did>
<container type="box">1</container>
<container type="folder">7</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Promissory note from Elisha W. Daniel co-signed by B.F. Burch to R.B. Miller</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="18811128">November 28, 1881</unitdate>
</did>
</c02>
</c01>
<c01 level="series">
<did>
<unitid encodinganalog="099" type="series">VI</unitid>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Newspapers</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="1854">1854</unitdate>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="1898">1898</unitdate>
</did>
<c02 level="item">
<did>
<container type="box">1</container>
<container type="folder">8</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">The Oregon Statesman</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="18541212">December 12, 1854</unitdate>
</did>
</c02>
<c02 level="item">
<did>
<container type="box">1</container>
<container type="folder">8</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">The Weekly Brunswicker (Brunswick, Missouri)</unittitle>
<unitdate datechar="creation" era="ce" calendar="gregorian" encodinganalog="245$f" normal="18980625">June 25, 1898</unitdate>
</did>
</c02>
</c01>
<c01 level="series">
<did>
<unitid encodinganalog="099" type="series">VII</unitid>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Reference photocopies of entire collection</unittitle>
</did>
<c02 level="file">
<did>
<container type="box">2</container>
<container type="folder">1</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Reference photocopies of Series I: Family records and correspondence</unittitle>
</did>
</c02>
<c02 level="file">
<did>
<container type="box">2</container>
<container type="folder">2</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Reference photocopies of Series II: Military correspondence and documents</unittitle>
</did>
</c02>
<c02>
<did>
<container type="box">2</container>
<container type="folder">3</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Reference photocopies of Series III: Political correspondence and records</unittitle>
</did>
</c02>
<c02>
<did>
<container type="box">2</container>
<container type="folder">4</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Reference photocopies of Series IV: Estate papers: Samuel Burch</unittitle>
</did>
</c02>
<c02>
<did>
<container type="box">2</container>
<container type="folder">5</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Reference photocopies of Series IV: Estate papers: John Townsend</unittitle>
</did>
</c02>
<c02>
<did>
<container type="box">2</container>
<container type="folder">6</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Reference photocopies of Series IV: Estate papers: Jordan M. Sisk</unittitle>
</did>
</c02>
<c02>
<did>
<container type="box">2</container>
<container type="folder">7</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Reference photocopies of Series V: Financial documents and receipts</unittitle>
</did>
</c02>
<c02>
<did>
<container type="box">2</container>
<container type="folder">8</container>
<unittitle encodinganalog="245$a">Reference photocopies of Series VI: Newspapers</unittitle>
</did>
</c02>
</c01>
</dsc>
</archdesc>
</ead>