Shaver, F. A., Arthur P. Rose, R. F. Steele, and A. E. Adams, compilers.  "An
Illustrated History of Central Oregon." ("Embracing Wasco, Sherman, Gilliam,
Wheeler, Crook, Lake, & Klamath Counties")  Spokane, WA: Western Historical
Publishing Co., 1905.  p. 629.
 
JAMES F. COOKE

     has made a success in Gilliam county in financial matters which manifests
him a man of ability and judgment, far above the average. He is one of the
heaviest land owners of the county and has devoted himself so assiduously to his
business in his stay in this county that he has won success in every part. He is
a man of keen foresight, persevering and careful. His standing in the county is
of the best and he has done much to expedite and assist the development of the
country to its present prosperous condition.
     James F. Cooke was born in Eldorado county, California.  His father, James
D. Cooke, was born in England and made his way to the United States in early
life. In 1852, he crossed the plains to California and there spent some time in
mining.   Then he took a homestead in the vicinity of Dixon, Solano county, the
same state and there devoted himself to farming until his death, which occurred
in 1886. He had married Miss Mira Dudley. Our subject was reared and educated in
California and there remained with his father until 1884, when he journeyed
north. He traveled over much country and finally selected a homestead and timber
culture near where Condon is now located. He set about the good work of
improving the claims and remained until he was satisfied that the country was
what he desired then returned to California to visit the folks and to secure the
company of his brother. In 1887, with his brother, R. W. Cooke, he came back to
Oregon and they settled on the claims and went to raising stock. They soon
bought more land and the estate has increased until they now have two thousand
two hundred and forty acres, one thousand of which are cropped, annually to
grain. In addition to handling this mammoth acreage to the cereals, they raise
large numbers of horses and mules. Their stock is well bred and they have so
conducted their business that they have become wealthy. When the Cooke brothers
started in this country, they had no means save a few dollars for the present
need of their living. They have gained their magnificent holding and wealth
entirely by their own labors and sagacity in the management of their business.
They have all the improvements and machinery needed on a first class stock and
grain ranch and are thrifty and up to date business men.

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Submitted to the Oregon Bios. Project in January 2011 by Diana Smith.  Submitter
has no additional information about the person(s) or family mentioned above.