The 18th Governor of Oregon, serving from 1927 to 1929, known for his progressive policies and efforts to improve the state's infrastructure and education system.
I. L. Patterson, born on September 17, 1859, is famously known as the 18th Governor of Oregon, serving from 1927 to 1929. He was the first governor of Oregon born in the state after it was admitted to the Union, making him a trailblazer in Oregon's politics.
Patterson was born on his family's Kings Valley estate in rural Benton County, Oregon. His parents, Francis A. and Caroline (née Tatum), were emigrants to the Oregon Territory, having made the overland trip from their previous home of Bellevue, Illinois. Until he reached the age of 18, he worked on his father's farm.
Later, he attended Monmouth's Christian College for a year and supported himself as a grocery clerk in Independence. His hard work earned him a position as a business partner, and he remained involved with the grocery store for 22 years.
In 1898, Patterson entered politics, gaining election to a seat in the Oregon State Senate representing Marion County. At the time, he was one of the youngest state legislators ever elected, having been sworn in at age 32.
President William McKinley appointed Patterson to the post of Collector of Customs, Portland District in 1898, and he was reappointed by Theodore Roosevelt in 1902, serving there until 1906.
In 1918, the citizens of Benton and Polk Counties elected him to represent their district, returning him to the state senate. Patterson's dedication to public service ultimately led to his election as the 18th Governor of Oregon, serving from 1927 to 1929.
On May 12, 1886, Patterson married Mary Elizabeth Woodworth, and they had two children together. In addition to his political career, Patterson was a successful farmer and businessman, owning a 300-acre ranch in rural Polk County and later venturing into a profitable wool and hide business in Portland.
I. L. Patterson's legacy is marked by his commitment to public service and his role as a trailblazer in Oregon's politics. He will always be remembered as the first governor of Oregon born in the state after it was admitted to the Union.
Today, Patterson's contributions to Oregon's history serve as an inspiration to future generations of leaders and citizens alike.
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