SAMUEL COLVER. Ever since the spring of 1851 the Colver family has been known as an industrious and deserving one, and has maintained the reputation for excellent farming for which the Jackson county family is justly famous. That honored pioneer, Samuel Colver, settled first on the present site of Phoenix, where he took up a donation claim and where he spent his entire life. The house which still shelters an industrious household was erected in the days when Indians prowled around by night, and menaced the life and property of the earnest men and women who were striving to make a living upon the neglected and uncultivated land. Many neighbors used to assemble in the improvised fort at night, returning to their farms during the day. Thus the families cherish the old building for the good it has done, and doubtless would feel lost in any other habitation

Mr. Colver was born in the state of Ohio in 1815, and at Middleburg married Hulda Calendar, born in January, 1823. The family crossed the plains in a large train of emigrants in 1850, meeting with little opposition on the part of the Indians, and having a fairly pleasant trip. Six months they slept by night under the stars and traveled by day, the faithful oxen responding to the instructions of their drivers, and bringing them in safety to the Oregon of their dreams. One incident of the trip is recalled by Mrs. Colver. While on the Platte they were camping one evening and during the night Mr. Colver heard some disturbance among the live stock. Upon investigating he discovered an Indian, whom he grabbed by the throat. The companion of the red man fired, but failed to reach his mark, and the captured Indian managed to squirm out of Mr. Colver's hands, leaving his gun, which was in possession of the family for many years.

Mr. Colver first took up a claim where Eugene is now located, but in 1851 he came to Jackson county, as heretofore stated, and lived on his farm until his lamented death in 1890. He was a quiet man, devoted to his family and farm, and never desired or would accept office tendered him by his Republican friends. He inaugurated many fine improvements on his farm, kept it in perfect order, and devoted his land to grain, general produce and stock. He is recalled as honorable in all his dealings, fearless in his support of right and justice, and always kind and considerate of those dependent upon his care.

Mr. and Mrs. Colver took great pride in their three children, desired for them an excellent education, and gave them all the liberty and diversion possible in their busy life. Alice, the youngest, died at the age of two years and four months: Lewelleyn, who married Jemima Dollarhide, died March 9, 1884, leaving four children, Caroletta, Percy L., Frank B., and Lewelleyn; and Isabella is the deceased wife of L. A. Rose, her demise occurring in 1885.

Mrs. Colver is still living on a portion of the old donation claim, which is being managed by the grandchildren.

Portrait and Biographical Record of Western Oregon
Containing Original Sketches of many well known Citizens of the Past and Present
Chapman Publishing Company; Chicago - 1904
Transcribed by Alona Planca