Sherry Ross (pioneer) facts for kids

Sherry Ross (born February 11, 1824 – died January 4, 1867) was an early pioneer in Oregon. He is famous because Ross Island and the Ross Island Bridge in Portland, Oregon are named after him. A pioneer was someone who traveled to and settled in a new, undeveloped area.

Journey to Oregon

Sherry Ross arrived in the Oregon Country in 1845. He was part of a large group of about 200 wagons. These wagons traveled along a special path called the Oregon Trail. However, they took a different route known as the Meek Cutoff. This cutoff was a shortcut that branched off the main trail.

Settling in the Willamette Valley

In 1846, Sherry Ross found a piece of land he liked. It was about 400 acres and surrounded by the Willamette River. He officially claimed this land. This area later became known as Ross Island, named after him.

Family Life

In 1851, Sherry Ross married Rebecca Deardorff. Rebecca had also moved to the Oregon Territory in 1850. They started their life together in this new land.

Business Ventures

Sherry Ross was a busy person. He ran a dairy farm right there on Ross Island. A dairy farm is where cows are raised to produce milk. He also owned a business in early Portland. This business was a livery stable located at 165 First Street. A livery stable was a place where people could rent horses or keep their own horses.