George Byron Currey facts for kids

George Byron Currey (born April 4, 1833 – died March 6, 1906) was an important person in Oregon's early history. He was a pioneer, a lawyer, a soldier, and a farmer. Born in Indiana, he became an officer in the Oregon Volunteers. He even commanded the military District of Oregon at the end of the American Civil War. He also led troops during the Snake War in 1865.

Early Life and Moving West

George Byron Currey was born on April 4, 1833, in Crawfordsville, Indiana. He went to Wabash College and studied to become a lawyer. In 1853, he traveled to Oregon by following the famous Oregon Trail. Once in Oregon, he became a lawyer and worked near Eugene in the Willamette Valley. In 1864, Currey married Jennie Clarissa Gaines from Yamhill County.

Military Service

Currey served as a soldier in several important conflicts.

Rogue River War

In the 1850s, Currey fought in the Rogue River Indian War. This was a conflict between the Territorial forces and some Native American tribes.

American Civil War

During the American Civil War, Currey played a significant role. In 1862, he helped create Company E of the First Oregon Cavalry in Wasco County. He was the captain of this company for a long time. Later, he became captain of Company A.

By early 1865, Currey was promoted to lieutenant colonel. In June 1865, he became a colonel in the 1st Oregon Infantry Regiment. He was then put in charge of the military District of Oregon starting July 14, 1865. After General George Wright died, Currey also commanded the Department of the Columbia from July 30 to November 20, 1865.

The Snake War

In the fall of 1865, Colonel Currey planned a winter campaign against the Snake Indians in eastern Oregon. He sent groups of soldiers from the 1st Oregon Infantry and Oregon cavalry to set up camps. These soldiers were told to build winter shelters and get ready for a winter attack. Supplies were supposed to follow them.

However, Colonel Currey was released from duty in November 1865. Many of his soldiers from the First Infantry were also released. His replacement, Lieutenant Colonel John M. Drake, was also released from service in December. Because of this, Currey's planned winter campaign never started. It was later up to General George Crook to lead the winter campaigns that helped end the war.

Life After the Military

After leaving the Army, Currey went back to his private life. He worked as a lawyer in Salem from 1866 to 1868. From 1868 to 1872, he farmed near Lafayette in northwest Oregon.

Currey then moved to Eastern Oregon. He practiced law in Canyon City from 1872 to 1880. He also served as a presidential elector in 1882. George Byron Currey passed away in La Grande, Oregon on March 6, 1906.