Charles McKay (Oregon pioneer) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Charles Richard McKay Sr.
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| Born | February 8, 1808 Brandon House, Manitoba, Canada
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| Died | May 27, 1873 Glencoe, Washington, Oregon, United States
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| Burial place | Harrison Cemetery, Vadis, Washington County, Oregon, United States |
| Nationality | Scottish |
| Citizenship | American |
| Occupation | Fur Trapper, Cattle rancher, Butcher |
| Known for | Early settlement of Oregon |
| Spouse(s) | Letitia (Bird) McKay (married Oct 2, 1827) |
| Children | 9 |
Charles McKay was an important early settler in Oregon. He was a fur trapper who worked in the Rocky Mountains for the Hudson's Bay Company. He arrived in the Tualatin Valley in Oregon on Christmas Day in 1840 with five other people.
Charles McKay is known for founding and being the first person to settle the area called Glencoe, Oregon.
Contents
Who Was Charles McKay?
Charles McKay was born on February 8, 1808, in a place called Brandon House, which is now in Manitoba, Canada. His family had Scottish roots. As a young man, he became a fur trapper, which was a common and important job at the time. Fur trappers explored new lands and collected animal furs, which were then traded for goods.
Life as a Fur Trapper
Charles McKay worked for the Hudson's Bay Company. This was a very powerful trading company that operated across Canada and parts of the United States. They were famous for their fur trade. Working for them meant Charles traveled a lot and learned about the wild lands of North America.
Family Life
Charles McKay married Letitia Bird. Her father was an important person in the Hudson's Bay Company. He was a "chief factor," which means he was in charge of a major trading post or region. Charles and Letitia had nine children together.
Moving to Oregon
In 1840, Charles McKay decided to move to the Oregon Country. This was a big journey, and he traveled with a group of five other people. They arrived in the Tualatin Valley, a beautiful area in what is now Oregon, on December 25, 1840.
Settling Glencoe
Charles McKay played a key role in the early settlement of Oregon. He was the first person to settle the area that became known as Glencoe, Oregon. This meant he helped build the first homes and set up the first community there. Settlers like Charles McKay helped shape the future of the American West.
Becoming an American Citizen
Even though Charles McKay was born in Canada, he chose to become an American citizen. He officially became a citizen of the United States in 1851. He lived in Oregon for many years, helping to build the community. Charles McKay passed away on May 27, 1873, in Glencoe, Oregon. He is buried in Harrison Cemetery in Oregon.
