William Overton (Portland founder) facts for kids

William Overton was an early pioneer in the Oregon Country, a region in the Pacific Northwest of North America. In the mid-1840s, he and Asa Lovejoy bought the land that would later become the city of Portland, Oregon. Overton sold his part of the land soon after to Francis Pettygrove.

Early Life and Oregon Journey

Not much is known about William Overton's early life. Historians believe he came from Tennessee. He settled in Oregon City. He might have arrived with Joseph Gale after traveling through California.

Overton spent his first few months in Oregon working. From November 1841 to early 1842, he worked at a Methodist mission. This mission was located in a place called The Dalles.

Finding the Land for Portland

People described Overton as a lively and adventurous person. In 1843 or 1844, he and Asa Lovejoy were traveling by canoe. They were going from Fort Vancouver to Oregon City. During their trip, they found a special spot along the Willamette River.

This spot was already clear of trees. It was a popular stopping place for travelers. Many people believed a big city would grow near where the Willamette and Columbia rivers met. Overton wanted to claim this land. He convinced Lovejoy to officially record the claim for 640 acres. The two men then started clearing more trees. They also began building simple homes there. Overton's cabin was very basic, like a shed. In 1845, the first map of Portland was drawn. It showed 16 city blocks.

What Happened Next

Overton worked on the land, making wooden staves and shingles. He sold these items in Oregon City. He once offered to sell his share of the land to a man named Jimmie Stephens. Stephens worked with barrels, but he said no to the offer.

Later, Overton sold his part of the land claim to Francis Pettygrove for $50. He also had to pay Lovejoy $60 for improvements they had made. After selling his share, Overton left for Texas. He had heard his mother was ill there. After he left, no one ever heard from him again. Some rumors said he might have ended up in Hawaii.

Today, a street in Northwest Portland is named Overton Street. It is named in his honor.