At Yreka, Siskiyou County, May 16th, CHAS. LANGLER to JANE DE ROBOAM.
Sacramento Daily Union, May 26, 1858, page 2


    The little city had men of the largest caliber--Capt. John M. McCall, Judge Prim, Major Glenn, James Clugage, Morgan Davis [Maury & Davis?], J. S. Howard, ------ Pace, Herman Von Helms, W. G. T'Vault, ------ Kinney, Madame Jeanne de Roboam (said to have been a relative of Lafayette and a political refugee to New Orleans, thence to Jacksonville, and a popular hotel keeper), Dr. McCully, General Ross, B. F. Dowell, etc.
Reese P. Kendall, Pacific Trail Camp-Fires, 1901


Oregon Sentinel, Jacksonville, January 11, 1862, page 2


Oregon Sentinel, Jacksonville, January 11, 1862, page 3


Oregon Sentinel, Jacksonville, April 26, 1862, page 3




    MADAM DeRoboam requests us to say that the McCully Hall has been thoroughly and substantially braced by pillars underneath, rendering the hall perfectly safe beyond a possibility of a doubt.
Oregon Sentinel, Jacksonville, December 24, 1864, page 3


Oregon Sentinel, Jacksonville, January 14, 1865, page 2


Oregon Sentinel, Jacksonville, January 14, 1865, page 2




    We were wrongly informed concerning the flag presentation having taken place at Phoenix on Friday the 19th. It took place here on Wednesday last. Captain Sprague marched his company through town and put them through a variety of maneuvers before a large and admiring crowd of ladies and gentlemen, which showed a degree of training that reflects credit upon the officers commanding the company. The speeches by Mr. Langell and Captain Sprague were short but timely, and were listened to with marked attention by those present. The flag was a nice one, worthy of so fine a company, and the boys gave it and its donor--Madame De Roboam--three cheers.
Oregon Sentinel, Jacksonville, May 27, 1865, page 2


    Monday night brought me, the "solitary horseman" of all the gallant company that left Eugene City a month ago, to Jacksonville, there to sleep once more in a bed! with the trellised vines of Madame Jeanne DeRoboam peering in through the windows; wondering when we shall again have such a trip and such a party as those who joined in the wild journey to and from the "Snake Treaty" in Oregon.
"Treaty with the Snake Indians," Sacramento Daily Union, September 2, 1865, page 1


Declaration of Jeanne Guilfoyle to hold separate property
    Know all men by these presents, that I Jeanne Guilfoyle, a married woman, the wife of John Guilfoyle of the County of Jackson and State of Oregon, do hereby make known and declare my intention to hold in my own right, separate and apart from my said husband and by his consent and for my separate use and benefit, the following described real and personal property, and being in the Town of Jacksonville County of Jackson and State of Oregon, more particularly described as follows, to wit: All that tract or parcel of land situate at the S.E. corner of Oregon and Main Street in said Town, being parts of Lots Nos. one and two in Block No. 27 of the recorded plat of said Town, fronting 30 feet on Oregon Street aforesaid and running back the same width 76 feet on Main Street aforesaid;  Also a lot (a lot) or piece of ground beginning 76 feet from the North West corner of block No. 27 on Main Street, running thence South easterly with Main Street 72 feet and running back the same width from said Main Street 150 feet, being parts of lots Nos. 2 & 3 in Block No. 27, together with all the rights and appurtenances thereunto belonging or in anywise appertaining. The above described property is the same as that now occupied by the "Franco American Restaurant" Hotel; also the furniture in said Hotel, to wit: All the Tables, table cloths, Towels, Wash basins, bowls, and wash stands; All the beds, bedclothes, blankets and bedsteads; All the Dishes, Cooking and Parlor stoves, with their furniture; All the Bureaus and Mirrors; all the carpets, all the chairs, all the tumblers, glasses, bottles, decanters and Liquors, all the wood and in fact every article of property used in said Hotel and which was owned by me previous to my intermarriage with John Guilfoyle my said husband.
    I do hereby declare it as my intention to hold and enjoy all the above described property, real and personal as my own separate property as aforesaid, under the provisions of the Act of the Legislature of the State of Oregon approved June 4th 1859.
    In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal, this 19th day of October 1865.
In presence of         )
O. Jacobs                 )                                                        Jeanne Gilfoyle [sic] (seal)
D. M. C. Gault         )               Revenue stamps canceled 50 cents
State of Oregon County of Jackson, s.s.
    Personally appeared before me, the undersigned a Notary Public of the State of Oregon, in and for the County of Jackson, Mrs. Jeanne Guilfoyle, known to me to be the identical person described in and who executed the foregoing Instrument of writing or declaration of intention to hold separate property and acknowledged that she executed the same for the purposes therein mentioned and intended and without any fear or compulsion from any one, she was examined by me separate and apart from her said husband.
                   In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my
                   hand and affixed my Notarial Seal at Jacksonville,
L.S.            this 19th day of October A.D. 1865.
Filed for record Oct. 19th 1865, at 22 Min. before 10 O'Clk A.M.
Recorded Oct. 31 1865, Wm. Hoffman Co. Clk. & Recorder
Register of Married Women's Separate Property, Jackson County, Oregon




Oregon Sentinel, Jacksonville, November 30, 1867, page 2


    CREDITABLE.--Private C. E. Tillett, of Co. I, carried the beautiful silk flag, presented by Madam De Roboam to the company in 1865, all the way from Fort Klamath, on horseback, to take part in the celebration. It surmounted the car, and reminded many of our citizens of the interesting occasion of its presentation. Three cheers for Charley!
Oregon Sentinel, Jacksonville, July 6, 1867, page 2


Oregon Sentinel, Jacksonville, July 25, 1868, page 2


    CAN'T BE SURPASSED.--Madame Guilfoyle still keeps the Franco American Restaurant on the corner of Main and Oregon sts.; she has a fine article of wine made from the grape, grown on the soil of France, her native country, and her dinners as regards the variety of viands are not surpassed in Oregon. She is intelligent, entertaining and accommodating, and deserves patronage.

    HOLT'S BRICK--The second story of this fine building is beginning to loom up, and we are informed by Mr. Holt that he expects to have it roofed in during August. The capacity of this hotel we think will be ample. It will contain twenty-two sleeping apartments besides office, ladies' parlor, dining room and store rooms. The partitions on the lower floor are all brick, and the building when finished will contain not less than three hundred thousand. The spacious dining room on the lower floor is eighteen by sixty feet, and each bedroom is provided with a fireplace. The large hall on the second story is thirty-five by seventy-five, and intended for parties, concerts or public exhibitions, we believe is the largest between here and Salem, and will have room to seat five hundred people. Madame Holt is entitled to credit for projecting a building that will be the finest in Jacksonville, and we hope nothing will occur to retard its progress.
Oregon Sentinel, Jacksonville, July 9, 1879, page 3


    Every city has its dignitaries, and prominent among those of Jacksonville is Madame Jane Holt, who keeps a famous and well-regulated hotel, and who is granddaughter to the French Duke de la Roboam, whose family was one of the most powerful in France during the palmy days of the Bourbon dynasty.
Abigail Scott Duniway, "Editorial Correspondence," The New Northwest, Portland, July 10, 1879, page 2


    G. W. Holt has engaged the services of Mr. Scott of Ashland, an excellent bricklayer, who, in conjunction with himself, will hurry the new U.S. Hotel toward completion.
"Brief Reference," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, July 11, 1879, page 3


    Holt's new brick hotel will soon be ready to receive the roof. The massive walls are nearly completed.
"Local Items," Oregon Sentinel, Jacksonville, July 23, 1879, page 3


    Geo. W. Holt is making preparations to burn another large kiln of brick.
"Brief Reference," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, August 1, 1879, page 3


    The bricks used in the building of the hotel were made by George Holt from clay taken from Jackson Creek, north of Jacksonville.
Toni Tweedy, "The United States Hotel," English Composition, February 25, 1960. SOHS "Bricks" vertical file.


    Madame Jane Holt shut down her brick yard force for a week. Reason assigned, weather too hot to work to any advantage.
"From Jacksonville," Douglas Independent, Roseburg, August 16, 1879, page 3


    The genial countenances of the wealth, beauty and enterprise of Roseburg were perceptible in our city on last Friday evening, numbering some fourteen in number. They were called to these parts on business connected with the Grand Applegate Mining Company. Their better halves, accompanied by their daughters, I presume came along for scenery seeing and recreation. No doubt that they will enjoy the trip, as that portion of the country where they are going is grand, beautiful and magnificent; and as the Siskiyou with its rugged heights, deep chasms, surrounding mountains and its refreshing waters is unsurpassed in Southern Oregon. On the evening of their arrival ex-Governor Chadwick escorted them to the garden of Peter Britt, and after staying there long enough to observe its beauties, they then took a walk through the beautified parts of the city, and as darkness was coming on they returned to the hotel, and within an hour or so afterwards a supper was tendered by the proprietress of the Franco-American, after which they repaired to the parlor and a joyous time was had. At the solemn hour of night, when everything was calm and still, the brass band serenaded them, and with closing ceremonies from Madam Holt, Sol Abraham made his appearance and the musical midnighters were made happy. Next morning, bright and early, they made their exit for the mines, to be gone four or five days. When they return I will give you a brief and concise narration.
"From Jacksonville," Douglas Independent, Roseburg, August 23, 1879, page 4


    The brick work for Holt's new hotel building was finished last week, with the exception of the fire walls. Operations will now be suspended until another kiln of brick can be burned. We learn that Mr. Holt now has an idea of building another story on top of this--making it a three-story building in front and two in the rear.
"Sorts," Oregon Sentinel, Jacksonville, August 27, 1879, page 3


    G. W. Holt is making another kiln of bricks with which to finish his building. Operations have been temporarily suspended on the structure until the bricks are completed.
"Brief Reference," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, August 29, 1879, page 3


    Mr. David Linn has commenced the work of covering G. W. Holt's new hotel. The contract will be completed in about two weeks.
"Local Items," Oregon Sentinel, Jacksonville, September 3, 1879, page 3


    Madame Jane Holt has been quite ill for some time, and in the meantime her guests have lived high.
"From Jacksonville," Douglas Independent, Roseburg, September 6, 1879, page 3


    G. W. Holt has just burned a brick kiln containing 100,000 bricks. This will be enough to complete his new hotel, and he will have some to spare.
"Local Items," Oregon Sentinel, Jacksonville, September 17, 1879, page 3




    Geo. W. Holt's fine hotel building is now enclosed, and plastering will commence in a short time.
"Brief Reference," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, October 24, 1879, page 3


    Madame Holt celebrated her thirty-fifth birthday on Sunday last and was the recipient of several presents, including a handsome snuffbox. Several of her friends were present and extended their congratulations.
"Personal Notes," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, November 28, 1879, page 3


    Madame Holt will keep open house to her friends on Christmas and New Year's and will be prepared to entertain all those who choose to call in a royal manner. The Madame has been a resident of Jacksonville for over twenty-two years and intends remaining a decade longer, Providence permitting.
"Personal Notes," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, December 26, 1879, page 3

    In Jacksonville there is in course of construction one of the most substantial structures in that portion of the state. By the erection and completion of this building the proprietress proposes to supply a want long felt in that portion of the state--viz: a first-class hotel. The external appearance is imposing and attractive, and it rises so over the surrounding buildings that everywhere a view of the town can be had; it is the most conspicuous object which accosts the eye. The internal appointments are arranged upon the most approved and stylish principles of modern architecture. To Madame Holt, an enterprising and hospitable woman, is the credit of this enterprise due, and the subject of our present sketch will stand as a monument and a lasting evidence of the enterprising spirit and cultured taste of this ambitious woman when the present generation will be sleeping in the silent tomb and their names lost in the waves of oblivion. Alive to the fact that a large cloud of indebtedness will for some time hover over this costly structure, Madame Holt has concluded to give a grand ball on the 4th of July, and she earnestly solicits the patronage and influence of her numerous friends everywhere. The tickets, which have already been issued and forwarded to agents, whom she has appointed, sell at $5 each. Those agents, of her own appointment and whose names appear on her books as such, are gentlemen of culture and pleasing manner; in fact, to use the Canadian expression, "they are ladies' men." Gen. Grant is agent at Washington, and his tickets have already been forwarded. Gov. Chadwick is agent for Marion County, and his tickets have been forwarded; while Col. Kelsay is the general agent for the state of Oregon, and three months ago was in possession of his tickets. With such gentlemen as the above named at the head, we hazard the prediction that the Fourth of July ball at Jacksonville will be a grand affair. The people generally should give this movement their attention and help Madame Holt along in her enterprise.--Standard.
Democratic Times, Jacksonville, April 2, 1880, page 1


    BARNEBURG & KINCAID have lately completed a fine buggy for Madame Holt, S. P. Hanna executing the woodwork in his usual excellent manner. The vehicle will be painted in fancy colors, and is being constructed especially for the Fourth of July ball, as the Madame proposes to receive her guests from abroad in the best style.
Democratic Times, Jacksonville, April 2, 1880, page 3


    Hon. J. B. Caldwell of Williams Creek has the contract for furnishing Madame Holt's new hotel, at Jacksonville, with twelve dozen chairs and other furniture.
"Josephine County Items," Democratic Times Supplement, Jacksonville, May 7, 1880, page 1








    Madame Holt made the hearts of ye hungry printers happy Tuesday with some excellent refreshments, for which we extend thanks.
"Personal Notes," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, July 9, 1880, page 3


    A bake oven has just been completed in [the] rear of Holt's new hotel building to be used in connection with Mr. Kreutzer's proposed bakery, to be started up shortly in the east end of Holt's new brick block.


    Madame Holt has furnished several rooms in her new hotel building for the reception of President Hayes and party when they pass through Jacksonville.
"Local Items," Oregon Sentinel, Jacksonville, August 25, 1880, page 3


    Madame Holt has purchased Schumpf's bath fixtures and will rig them up in first-class style in one of her numerous buildings.
"Brief Reference," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, August 27, 1880, page 3


    The tramps who stole two overcoats from Madame Holt's hotel several days ago were arrested for a like offense at Yreka last week. They should be given an extra lick on general principles.
"Brief Reference," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, September 24, 1880, page 3


    President Hayes and party arrived by special coach at Ashland at 3:40 p.m. Monday afternoon, where he was accorded a hearty welcome. On behalf of the committee of citizens H. C. Hill introduced Prof. L. L. Rogers, president of the Ashland college, who delivered a very neat address of welcome, which was responded to in fitting terms by President Hayes. At the conclusion of President Hayes' remarks Gen. W. T. Sherman was called for and made a short speech.
    Mrs. Hayes was presented at the conclusion of the speaking and was received with great applause, the lady bowing her acknowledgments for the compliment.
    At 4:30 the party took the special coach and started for Jacksonville. It was estimated that fully 2000 persons were present at Ashland.
    The presidential party reached Jacksonville at 7 o'clock Monday evening. Hon. C. C. Beekman delivered an address of welcome, to which the President responded. Gen. Sherman was also called for and made a few remarks.
    The party left Jacksonville yesterday morning at 9 o'clock by special coach and expect to reach Roseburg this afternoon at 4:30.
"President Hayes," Oregonian, Portland, September 29, 1880, page 3






    There were two stages and they pulled up right in front of our house, and President and Mrs. Hayes and the other members of the party got out. There were 15 in all. I can't recall the names of all of them, but besides the President and his wife there were Mr. and Mrs. Herron, the father and mother of Mrs. William H. Taft; Mrs. Mitchell, President Hayes' niece; General Sherman and his daughter, and other very prominent people.
Caroline Haines Willis, in "President Hayes Visit to Oregon Describe by Hostess in Roseburg," Oregonian, Portland, October, 11, 1925, page C10


    A letter from a prominent gentleman of Southern Oregon states that hoodlumism was so rampant at Jacksonville that the citizens made no arrangements for any demonstration on the arrival of the Presidential party, fearing that the slums of the town would cause trouble and publicly insult the company. There was not even a committee appointed to receive the distinguished visitors, but it was necessary for the party to remain overnight, and in the evening a quiet reception was held. That the guests noticed the town's slight is shown by the fact that they mentioned the kind welcome accorded them at Ashland. It is enough to flush the face of every  Oregonian to know that the only discourtesy shown the President on his tour was shortly after his arrival in our state. Brigadier-General Thos. G. Reames, of the Oregon State Militia, is President of the Town Board of Jacksonville, and such a man could not be expected to rise above his level, even to welcome the chief executive of the nation. The respectable people of the place feel deeply humiliated that they could not venture to treat the President with the respect due his station.
The New Northwest, Portland, October 7, 1880, page 4


    It was reserved for Jacksonville, Or., to offer the first discourtesy to the President since his advent on the Pacific Coast. On the arrival of the Presidential party in the place there was not a single person to welcome them, the town authorities having done all in their power to discourage any reception whatever. In the evening there was a revulsion, and such of the citizens as were not too deeply impregnated with Bourbonism paid their respects to the chief magistrate of the nation. This deliberate attempt to slight the President will not raise Jacksonville very much in the estimation of people who have hospitable instincts.
Albany Register, Albany, Oregon, October 8, 1880, page 2


    The most aristocratic hotel on this coast is Madame Holt's, at Jacksonville, the charges to the Presidential party being only about $15 a day to each person. The highest price at the Palace in San Francisco, for the bridal chambers of the greatest magnificence, is only $6 per day. The high-toned cods who boast of paying high prices will certainly all go to Jacksonville to board, in preference to stopping at such cheap houses as the Palace in San Francisco.
Chico Semi-Weekly Enterprise, Chico, California, October 8, 1880, page 2





    ERRONEOUS.--Madame Holt requests us to state that the report that she intends converting her fine hall into bed chambers is incorrect. It will always be at the service of the public, whether a town hall is built or not.
Democratic Times, Jacksonville, November 12, 1880, page 3




    A CHANGE.--The O. & C. Stage Company's vehicles will hereafter stop at the New State Hotel, instead of at the Franco-American, as formerly. The new arrangement went into effect on Tuesday morning.
Democratic Times, Jacksonville, November 19, 1880, page 3


    On the adjoining block as we walk eastwardly, we see our new grand hotel and hall, owned by Geo. and Jane Holt, and we hear will be occupied by the Madame in person when we believe all the delicacies of the season will be dispensed to her guests in the latest style and at fair prices. In noticing the hotel and hall, it would hardly be right to pass it by without giving a short sketch of the manner in which it was built, Geo. Holt, owner and builder, starting from the bedrock as we call it. Quarrying the stone for the foundation, making the brick, burning the lime, cutting the stone for sills, doors, windows, etc., and then laying each of these in their proper places, finally plastering the building throughout. We think, from information furnished, the hotel when completed will cost $12,000, and we believe the equal of Mr. Holt for industry and perseverance is not in the state of Oregon. Were we blessed with more like him we would have a different town and valley.
"Jacksonville Improvements for One Year," Oregon Sentinel, Jacksonville, November 24, 1880, page 1






    On the adjoining block, as we walk eastwardly, we see our new grand hotel and hall, owned by Geo. and Jane Holt. We hear it will be occupied by the Madame in person, when we believe all the delicacies of the season will be dispensed to her guests in the latest style and at fair prices. In noticing the hotel and hall, it would hardly be right to pass it by without giving a short sketch of the manner in which it was built. Geo. Holt, owner and builder, started from the bedrock, as we call it, quarrying the stone for the foundation, making the brick, burning the lime, cutting the stone for sills, doors, windows, etc., and then laying each of these in their proper places, finally plastering the building throughout. We think, from information furnished, the hotel when completed will cost $12,000, and we believe the equal of Mr. Holt for industry and perseverance is not in the state of Oregon. Were we blessed with more like him we would have a different town and valley.
"Jacksonville's Improvements for One Year," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, December 3, 1880, page 1




Oregon Sentinel, Jacksonville, January 15, 1881, page 3


Democratic Times, Jacksonville, January 21, 1881, page 2  Note the Times' refusal to mention that Hayes was a sitting President at the time.






    Madame Holt has her new brick hotel all furnished in fine style, and her table is supplied with everything the market affords. Look out for her new ad. next week and patronize the U.S. Hotel when you want first-class accommodations.
"Local Items," Oregon Sentinel, Jacksonville, February 26, 1881, page 3




    G. W. Holt is building a large brick addition to the U.S. Hotel.
    The Champions of Honor of this place will give a sheet and pillow case party in Holt's Hall on the 21st inst. First-class music will be furnished. Tickets for gentlemen $1.00, ladies 50 cts. An excellent supper will be provided by Madame Holt, and those wishing to partake of the same can do so for the sum of $1 per couple. Everybody invited to attend.
"Local Items," Oregon Sentinel, Jacksonville, October 15, 1881, page 3


    The sheet and pillow case party given by the Champions at Holt's hall last week was largely attended by both maskers and spectators. After unmasking the party sat down to an excellent supper prepared by Madame Holt.


    NEW ARRANGEMENT.--Madam Holt will hereafter run a free coach from Medford to the U.S. Hotel. Arrangements will be perfected in a few days by which a daily coach will be put on from the hotel to Medford thus enabling her guests and others to go to and from the two points without the trouble and annoyance of looking up a private conveyance.
Oregon Sentinel, Jacksonville, March 8, 1884, page 3




    Madame Jane Holt, proprietor of the U.S. Hotel, died here last Sunday night after several months' slowly failing health. Madame Holt was a Southern Oregon pioneer and had been engaged in the hotel business ever since she resided here, having formerly kept the Franco American, and was well known all over the coast. She was a native of France, proud of the land of her birth, and never lost the impress of her nationality. She was of generous disposition, and many live to tell of her charities. Her hospitality was an inseparable part of her very self, and in her endeavor to entertain she could not be excelled. Her funeral took place from the Catholic church, Rev. Father Blanchet officiating. Many friends followed to the grave the remains of one whose faults all leaned to virtue's side, and so we leave her resting from the toils of the day on the verdant hillside with spring in all its loveliness mantling her last resting place in its choicest robes of beauty. The blue expanse of heaven canopied over her and the all-merciful and loving hand of omnipotence to judge the merits of the great heart forever stilled. May the often sorely tried spirit rest in peace as the years roll on to the endless and beautiful shores of eternity.
"Obituaries," Oregon Sentinel, Jacksonville, April 19, 1884, page 3


    Owing to the death of my wife Madame Jane Holt, who has had full control of the U.S. Hotel in Jacksonville since it was first opened, and desiring to change my business, I offer for sale the building together with all the furniture and appurtenances thereunto belonging. The building is a new three-story fireproof brick, well furnished and is the leading hotel of the town.
Oregon Sentinel, Jacksonville, April 19, 1884, page 3




    SETTLE UP.--All knowing themselves indebted to the estate of the late Madame Holt are requested to settle at once, and those having claims against the same will present them at the office of the U.S. Hotel.
Oregon Sentinel, Jacksonville, May 31, 1884, page 3


    NEW PROPRIETOR.--The U.S. Hotel in Jacksonville changed hands this week, Geo. W. Holt selling all his right, title and interest in the same to Jean and Emil DeRoboam, who took charge this week. Several improvements have already been made and numerous more are promised and the proprietors say it will hereafter be run in first-class style. There is plenty chance for improvement, and we hope to see the promises of the new owners fully carried out and wish them the best success possible.
Oregon Sentinel, Jacksonville, June 14, 1884, page 3


    The U.S. Hotel, under management of DeRoboam & Son, is proving a popular rendezvous with the traveling public. The house is being thoroughly cleansed and renovated, and the table will now compare with that set at any hotel in Southern Oregon. Read the advertisement and when in town judge for yourselves.
"Here and There," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, June 27, 1884, page 3


    We neglected noticing the receipt of a fine cake from Messrs. DeRoboam & Son last week. The supper furnished by these parties at the 4th of July ball was one of the finest ever spread in town both in quantity and quality.
"Local Items," Oregon Sentinel, Jacksonville, July 19, 1884, page 3


    J. DeRoboam got the contract for keeping the county poor on his farm near Jacksonville at $4.50 per capita a week. The other bids were: Wm. Moore, $3.70 per capita; Dr. Kremer $2,498 a year.
"Commissioners' Court," Oregon Sentinel, Jacksonville, September 13, 1884, page 3


    Emil DeRoboam will not go to California as reported, but has reopened the wagon shop in the rear of P. Donegan's place of business. He is an excellent wheelwright and, having a good stock of material, will no doubt give full satisfaction.
"Here and There," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, October 17, 1884, page 3








    The old Franco-American Hotel at Jacksonville evaporated in smoke one day last week. It was a group of board shanties thrown together with winding labyrinthine passages connecting them, one with the other. Jim Clugage, the proprietor of the town site, had the first building erected on the corner in 1853, and it was used as a saloon and gambling house for several years. During those early times every house was a hotel in that mining camp, and most of them were devoted to the use of the gambling fraternity who comprised a majority of the population. As the necessities required, other small frame buildings were erected adjoining the original one until the entire block was covered. The history of that group of hovels would be a subject worthy of a hundred pages. More than a dozen lives have been lost in that immediate vicinity by violence, some with the bowie knife and others with the pistol shot. The old rookery passed through various hands and at last came into possession of a Frenchwoman known during the declining years of her life as Madame Holt. She had been married numerous times before the was wedded to a brick maker and layer named Holt. She marred him as a matter of convenience. He was an industrious Englishman, and the Madame had an ambition to build a brick hotel in another part of town. He could make bricks, lay them in a wall and chop the wood to burn them, hence he was qualified as an important factor in the Madame's hotel enterprise. During the years that she was landlady of the Franco-American it was the leading hotel in Jacksonville. The stages stopped there and she was known from Alaska to Washington City. She was a great lover of wine, and when a convivial companion called on her she would imbibe too freely and often become "under the influence" to an extent that would have been unpardonable in any other woman. But the Madame was a privileged character. She was good, and, like Jim Fisk, never went back on the poor. For many years, during the the last of her life, she would pile her dining room table with the residue of breakfast, dinner and supper and leave the door open. No man was so poor or needy but that he could walk in and help himself to a meal. The prince and the beggar were alike welcome. But Madame Holt, whose maiden name was Jane DeRoboam, was of noble birth. She was highly educated and knew how to entertain the most refined. She was especially proud of men of distinction. She had one apartment which she called the Senator's room, and another which she called Col. Stone's room. Col. Stone was for many years superintendent of the O.&C. stage line, and made her house his headquarters when he was in Jacksonville. An amusing incident occurred at the Franco-American Hotel in 1878. Senator John H. Mitchell called there for dinner on his way back from this city to Washington. A friend from Ashland dined with him, and the Madame was profuse in her compliments and prodigal in her bill of fare. The Senator was as gallant as she was complimentary, and finally expressed a wish to posses the old lady's photograph. He had no sooner made the remark than she rushed off into the parlor and came back with her life-sized portrait enclosed in a black walnut frame, weighing about ten pounds. The Senator took it in his hands, surveyed it and pronounced it a perfect likeness of the Madame, although it been taken years before and no more resembled his ancient hostess than a church spire looks like a haystack. "Now," said she, "Senator, I present this to you, and I want you to take it to Washington and hang it in your room at the Ebbitt House." In vain he tried to induce her to keep it until he returned, when he promised to call for it and bring it to his home in Portland. She decided otherwise and her Chinese servant wrapped it up in about a dozen newspapers ready for him to take with him on the stage, which soon drew up at the door. He and his Ashland friend mounted the box with the driver, the Senator carrying the Madame's present, which looked like a barn door off its hinges. To take it safely to the end of the stage line at Redding was an impossibility. It would have required the services of a furniture wagon and a couple of able-bodied men. To relieve himself of the responsibility Mitchell entrusted that portrait to a friend in Ashland, who still has it in his possession. Of course the Madame always understood that it was taken to Washington to be looked upon by the President, cabinet officers and dignitaries. It was necessary, as a matter of self-preservation, to deceive the Madame. Her kindness was more than an ordinary mortal could endure. But she was a noble-hearted woman, and she will live in the memory of many grateful wanderers to whose needs she ministered when misfortune and want pursued them.--[Sunday Mercury.
Oregon Sentinel, October 2, 1886, page 1  Subsequently reprinted by the Democratic Times on October 8.


    Jean St. Luc DeRoboam gives notice that his final statement as administrator of the estate of Jane Holt, deceased, will be heard on March 5th.
"Here and There," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, February 10, 1888, page 3


    The death of Gen. Sherman reminds the Yreka Journal of an incident occurring on Mr. Hayes' journey from San Francisco to Portland, while in office, accompanied by the General. On reaching Jacksonville by stage they stopped at the U.S. Hotel, the proprietress of which (Madame Holt) proposed charging them an exorbitant price, which took the General by surprise, and caused him to gently remark: "My dear Madame, we did not come to Jacksonville to buy your hotel, but simply to be accommodated for the night." As soon as the matter became known, many of the citizens called on the proprietress and settled the bill, it having been their intention to do so; but they had no knowledge of the time when the party was expected to arrive.
Democratic Times, Jacksonville, February 20, 1891, page 3




    Landlord DeRoboam is having the U.S. Hotel at Jacksonville painted, which greatly improves its outward appearance.
"Medford Items," Valley Record, Ashland, March 21, 1895, page 3


    John Compton has disposed of his interest in the Union Livery Stables to Emil DeRoboam of Jacksonville and Ned Orser, and has returned to his farm at Lake Creek.
"Medford Squibs," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, January 5, 1899, page 2


    Our farmers are getting their threshing done this week. The Compton and DeRoboam machines are both in this vicinity.
"Brownsboro Items," Medford Mail, September 22, 1899, page 5


    As will be seen by [the] dissolution notice published elsewhere in this paper, the firm of DeRoboam & Orser, liverymen, has been dissolved, Mr. Emil DeRoboam, of Jacksonville, the senior member, having taken charge of the business, which will be continued by him. Mr. DeRoboam is a square, honorable gentleman, and all affairs of the stables will be conducted upon these lines so long as he has anything to do with them. Mr. Orser, we understand, will go to Idaho and engage in business there.
"City Happenings," Medford Mail, April 13, 1900, page 7


    Emil DeRoboam, proprietor of the Union Livery Stables, is fitting out his livery stock in splendid shape. He is making many repairs on old rigs and adding several new ones, also putting in new driving horses. Mr. DeRoboam is a man of business--a fact which is noticeable everywhere about the stables.
"City Happenings," Medford Mail, May 25, 1900, page 7


    E. B. Jennings, of Table Rock, has purchased the Union Livery Stable from Emil DeRoboam.
"Additional Local Items," Medford Mail, July 20, 1900, page 2


    A suit was commenced in the Circuit Court on the 6 inst. by Jean St. Luc DeRoboam against Augustine Schmidlin to recover the legal title to the U.S. Hotel property situated in Jacksonville. It appears that when Jane Holt, the former owner, died in 1884, she left but one heir at law, Jean St. Luc DeRoboam. The property was heavily mortgaged at the time of her death. In 1885 suit was brought to foreclose these mortgages, and by some oversight, or carelessness, neither the heir, nor any administrator of deceased's estate, were made parties defendant in the foreclosure suit. It is claimed that the court under such circumstances had no jurisdiction to order a sale of the property, and that the sale which followed was void and of no effect.
    The defendant, Augustine Schmidlin, alleges that he is the son and heir of the late Mrs. Jean St. Luc DeRoboam and that by the terms of her will he was to have full ownership of the property in question when the life lease expired held to it by his stepfather, Jean St. Luc DeRoboam, and he further alleges that his mother furnished the money and redeemed the hotel in her own name at the time of the foreclosure and that her husband contributed no part of this money. There are other points of law involved which makes the case one of more than ordinary importance. The suit will be heard at the September term of circuit court and Colvig & Durham represent Mr. DeRoboam and Judge J. R. Neil appears for Mr. Schmidlin.
Jacksonville Sentinel, August 12, 1904, page 6


Gold Hill News:
    Benjamin S. Owings, a farm hand employed on the DeRoboam ranch, near Woodville, committed suicide, Thursday morning, by hanging himself. Owings had for the past nine or ten years been an inmate of the insane asylum, at Salem, but was released about eighteen months ago. He had been employed at the DeRoboam place for the past two months, but during the time had never shown any signs of malady returning. Yesterday Mr. and Mrs. DeRoboam went to town and in the evening, upon their return, found Owings' body hanging to the rafters of the woodhouse, where he had hanged himself. He was 55 years old and had been a resident of this section of the country for a number of years prior to the time he was sent to the asylum.
"From County Exchanges," Medford Mail, October 18, 1907, page 2


    Jean St. Luc DeRoboam, an old resident of this city, died at the home of his son, S. P. DeRoboam, at 11 p.m. Sunday, March 2, of paralysis. He was aged 84 years, 2 months and 5 days. Mr. DeRoboam arrived in Jacksonville Dec. 24, 1871, since which time he has resided here continuously. He conducted the U.S. Hotel for a number of years, retiring from active business in 1909.
    Mr. DeRoboam was born in Bordeaux, France, and for 16 years was a member of the French navy, making two complete trips around the world while in that service. He was a veteran of the Crimean War and was present at the siege and fall of Sebastopol, and received one of the silver medals presented by Queen Victoria to the French soldiers for their loyalty in that war. The deceased possessed a great number of friends in this city, who extend their sincere sympathy to the bereaved family.
    He leaves two sons and one daughter, S. P. DeRoboam of this city, Emil DeRoboam of Medford and Celita Harper of Seattle, Wash.
    Funeral services conducted by Rev. Paul S. Bandy were held at the family residence Tuesday, March 4, at 2 p.m. Interment in Jacksonville cemetery.
Jacksonville Post, March 8, 1913, page 1


    August D. Singler, sheriff of Jackson County, died at the Sacred Heart Hospital at 8:35 a.m. April 23 as the result of a desperate revolver duel with Lester Jones, a 19-year-old desperado, about dusk Tuesday evening on the old DeRoboam ranch near Jacksonville. 
"Sheriff Singler Shot," Del Norte Triplicate, Crescent City, May 2, 1913, page 1


    The inn conducted by Mrs. Holt, who was a French woman with an Irish husband, was famous in its generation. Her last hotel, the United States, is still standing, but its only guests are crawling and creeping things and a few birds that nest upstairs. Mrs. Holt formerly controlled the Union House, but it burned and a more pretentious structure was erected. Before this building was completed, President Hayes and party began their journey up from California to visit Oregon. It was announced that they would spend the night in Jacksonville, and "The Madame," as all the townsfolk called the proprietress, got very busy and had a suite of rooms fixed up after a fashion in the new hotel.
    The workman had just completed the last bit of finishing when the President and the distinguished statesmen who accompanied him arrived. They were entertained in a way befitting the proud gold camp, and in the morning, when Senator John Sherman [It was General William Tecumseh Sherman.] complimented "The Madame" on her hospitality and asked what the bill would be, she calmly replied:
    "Seventy-five dollars!"
    "Why," replied the [general], somewhat miffed, "we do not want to buy your hotel."
    "Well," she answered in her broken English, "I thought the President could afford to pay a little more than common people."
    The bill was paid, "The Madame" presented Mr. Hayes with one of her photographs, and the guests started away over the Oregon road and Jacksonville saw them no more. And the suite of rooms in the new hotel was never again to bring $75 for a single night's lodging.
"Jacksonville Was a Gay Town--Once," Evening Telegram, Portland, Oregon, August 14, 1916  Southern Oregon Historical Society Research Library MS1458


    A special meeting of the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce was held Monday evening for the purpose of discussing the matter of restoring the U.S. Hotel on California Street, which in its present state of neglect is far from being a credit to the city. The plan is to restore the structure and make of it a museum in which may be housed the many interesting and valuable collections the owners of which are only waiting for such a place.
    The meeting was adjourned until Monday night, September 1, when definite plans for the work to be done will be made.
    The U.S. Hotel was built by George H. Holt in the year 1880. Its first guests were President Hayes and party, who were touring the West, traveling by stage. The hotel was not completed when the exciting news came that the presidential party would visit Jacksonville. True to traditional Western hospitality, Madame Holt hastily fitted up rooms and the distinguished visitors were entertained. Some Jacksonville folks remember this visit and that President Hayes spoke to the people from the veranda which ran the full length of the hotel front and which has since been torn away.
Jacksonville Post, August 29, 1924, page 1


    "And there was a French lady by the name of Dearborn [locals also pronounced "DeRoboam" as "Deerbaum"], I think, who ran a hotel. Well, I cut every stone in that building alone," said Stonewall.
"Indian Pioneer Mason of Jacksonville," Medford Mail Tribune, October 2, 1929, page 3





Last revised October 9, 2024