Nash bought the Hotel Medford (at the southeast corner of Main and Front) in 1894 and the next year enlarged it into the Nash Hotel, designed by architect W. J. Bennet.


    It is stated that Mr. Byers and other persons are about interesting themselves in the erection of a large brick building in Medford. We don't know how true it is.
"Here and There," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, December 28, 1883, page 3


    A considerable amount of brick is being hauled to Medford for Byers & Co.
"Here and There," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, January 4, 1884, page 3


    A large brick building 50x60 feet is to be erected at Medford this winter.
"Brevities," Ashland Tidings, January 4, 1884, page 3


    Byers & Jacobs will build a brick block 50x60 and another brick store 20x40. Large piles of brick are already on the ground, having been hauled from Jacksonville. The buildings will be made but one story high at first. Thos. McAndrew promises to burn a large kiln of brick and also put up one or more brick buildings during the coming season.
"Medford Items," Ashland Tidings, January 25, 1884, page 4


    Within a few days work on the smaller brick building of Byers & Jacobs will be commenced. It will be used as an express office. The larger building, 50x60, will be two stories high. 
"At Medford," Ashland Tidings, February 1, 1884, page 3


    Byers & Co. will commence the building of their brick buildings at Medford as soon as the cold snap is at an end.
"Here and There," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, February 15, 1884, page 3


    Messrs. Byers and Jacobs will soon commence putting up a brick store building at Medford.
"Local Items," Oregon Sentinel, Jacksonville, February 16, 1884, page 3


    Byers & Co. have commenced work on their fine brick buildings and expect to have them ready for occupancy in the course of a few months. They propose to make the structure opposite the depot a two-story one.
"Medford Items," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, February 29, 1884, page 2


    Work on the foundations of the two brick buildings of Byers & Jacobs at Medford is now in progress. Messrs. Byers and Steadman are doing the work.
"Medford Items," Ashland Tidings, February 29, 1884, page 3


    Work on Byers and Jacobs' new brick building was commenced this week and [is] progressing finely. Two bricks, one fronting the depot and the other adjoining it on the side street, are to be erected and the plans show that they will be large and roomy structures.
"Medford Notes," Oregon Sentinel, Jacksonville, March 1, 1884, page 3


    One of Byers & Co.'s brick buildings at Medford is nearing completion, while the foundation is being laid for the other.
"Here and There," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, March 21, 1884, page 3


    Mr. Byers has begun laying brick for the second brick building of Byers & Jacobs at Medford. It will be two stories high. The walls of the smaller building are up ready for the joist.
"Brevities," Ashland Tidings, March 21, 1884, page 3


    Mr. Byers, the bricklayer and stone mason, came up from Medford last Monday. He has the new brick buildings of Byers & Jacobs at that place enclosed, and they will soon be entirely finished.
"Personal," Ashland Tidings, April 18, 1884, page 3


    The corner room in Byers & Jacobs' new brick at Medford has been rented by W. G. Kenney and H. H. Wolters, who will open a saloon at that place.
"Local Items," Oregon Sentinel, Jacksonville, June 7, 1884, page 3


    Byers & Co. intend to put another story on their brick building at Medford, which will probably be used as a hotel.
"Here and There," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, August 14, 1885, page 3


    Byers & Co. intend to commence operations on the second story of their brick building at Medford at once.
"Here and There," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, September 4, 1885, page 3


    Medford will soon have a new brick hotel. A second story is being built on Byers' brick and the building will also be considerably enlarged. Kenney and Wolters' saloon will be moved to the room adjoining where they now are and their old stand on the corner changed to an office for the hotel. From the plans shown us we think it ought to make a commodious and well-arranged building for the purposes for which it is destined.
"Local Items," Oregon Sentinel, Jacksonville, September 26, 1885, page 3


    The brick work of the Byers & Jacobs hotel at Medford is about completed, and the building presents a fine appearance.
"Brevities," Ashland Tidings, October 9, 1885, page 3


    J. B. Riddle talks of leasing Byers & Jacobs' fine hotel in Medford.
"Brevities," Ashland Tidings, March 12, 1886, page 3


    J. B. Riddle has leased the hotel building of Byers & Jacobs and will open a first-class hotel here immediately.
"Medford Brevities," Ashland Tidings, April 2, 1886, page 3


    A CHANGE.--J. B. Riddle has leased Byers and Jacobs' brick hotel at Medford and will have it ready for the public three weeks hence. W. G. Kenney has sold his interest in the saloon to his partner, H. H. Wolters, and bought Mr. Lynch's interest in the livery stable there.
Oregon Sentinel, Jacksonville, April 3, 1886, page 3


    J. B. Riddle will take possession of the large hotel at Medford as soon as it can be finished. H. H. Wolters will run the saloon or barroom, having bought out Kenney's interest last week.
"Brevities," Ashland Tidings, April 9, 1886, page 3


    J. B. Riddle, the lessee of the new brick hotel at Medford, expects to be ready for business in about three weeks.
"Local Items," Oregon Sentinel, Jacksonville, April 24, 1886, page 3


    The Riddle Hotel at Medford is the Boss. While it will not be open for business until the 5th inst. we can still say that they have excellent rooms, fine beds and even now are furnishing the best of meals. We have tried all and know whereof we speak.
"Local Items," Oregon Sentinel, Jacksonville, May 1, 1886, page 3


    The Riddle House at Medford is now open and ready for business. Give it a trial when traveling that way.
"Local Items," Oregon Sentinel, Jacksonville, May 15, 1886, page 3


    The Riddle House, of Medford, is open for the accommodation of the public.
"Brevities," Ashland Tidings, May 21, 1886, page 3


    D. W. Crosby is now on the special police force of Medford besides being general manager of the Riddle House at that place.
"Local Items," Oregon Sentinel, Jacksonville, June 26, 1886, page 3


    The Riddle House and Gem Saloon are two of the leading business places in Medford, each doing a good business. The best of meals and lodgings are furnished at the former, while superior liquid refreshments can be obtained at the latter. Whenever you are in this place give Bous and Ham a call, for they will treat you well.
"Medford Squibs," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, December 24, 1886, page 3



    T. A. Harris and Ed. Worman have taken charge of the Grand Central Hotel, as well as the saloon in the same building. Harry McClallen will conduct the hotel for the present.
"Medford Squibs," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, May 9, 1890, page 3


    Harry McClallen has retired from the management of the Grand Central Hotel, and Thos. A. Harris is in charge of that caravansary.
"Medford Squibs," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, July 18, 1890, page 3


    The Grand Central Hotel Tuesday received a fine new upright piano for the parlor.
"Medford Doings," Valley Record, Ashland, September 11, 1890, page 3


    J. A. Hazel, erstwhile of the Grand Central Hotel of Medford, passed through the valley last week on his way to Tacoma.
"Personal Mention," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, September 26, 1890, page 3


    Over thirty couples attended the Thanksgiving ball supper at the Grand Central Hotel. Wilson's string band supplied the music.
"Medford Items," Valley Record, Ashland, December 4, 1890, page 3


     GRAND CENTRAL HOTEL, Hamilton & Harris, Proprietors, corner 7th and D Streets, opposite R.R. depot. This fine, two-story, brick building is situated on the main corner of the town. It has twenty-five bedrooms, dining room, fine large office and sample rooms for commercial travelers. The dining room is neatly furnished, and its tables always supplied with everything in the season. There is a bar in connection stocked with the best wines, liquors and cigars. The billiard room adjoining the bar makes this house a favorite resort. The proprietors are I. L. Hamilton and T. A. Harris, each about five years a resident of the town. Both gentlemen have been city Councilmen, while Mr. Hamilton is now city and county assessor.
P. W. Croake, The Rogue River Valley, "The Italy of Oregon," Glass & Prudhomme, Portland, Oregon. Undated, written March 1891.


    Harris & Purdin now fatten their own fowls for the table at the Grand Central, having last week erected a neat house in the rear of the hotel for that purpose.
"Medford Squibs," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, July 10, 1891, page 2


    Some new floors have been put down this week in the Grand Central. S. W. Speas has been doing the work.
"Local and General," Southern Oregon Mail, October 28, 1892, page 3


    The looks of the Grand Central Hotel bar has been greatly improved by the paperhanger and painter.
"Medford Squibs," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, December 2, 1892, page 2


    Miss Lee Daniels is again employed in the dining room of the Grand Central Hotel, which is gratifying to her many friends here.
"Medford Squibs," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, December 9, 1892, page 2


    A handsome brick building, with a fifty-foot front, will ornament the corner on which the old Medford Hotel formerly stood.
    M. Purdin has changed the name of the Grand Central Hotel to Hotel Medford, and as he has been busy in making long-needed improvements in the arrangements and management of the hotel, the traveling public will soon have to admit it to be one of the very best-managed hostelries in the southern part of the state.
"Medford Squibs," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, January 6, 1893, page 3


    Rogue River Valley citizens are right onto themselves when it comes to realizing the value of a trust [i.e., a monopoly]. Recently managers of the Hotel Oregon at Ashland made a deal by which they consolidated that and the Ashland House management, and the consequence is both houses will do a good business, the one as a lodging house, the other as the hotel of the city. At Medford, landlord Purdin has also seen the point and has leased the Clarendon Hotel, which he will in future use as a lodging house annex of the Medford hotel, ensuring a good round profit from both buildings.
"Local Notes," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, February 3, 1893, page 3


    Hotel Medford now blooms out with the colors of a true metropolitan hostelry. New and elegant menu cards, printed at the Mail office, adorn the dining room tables.
"City Local Whirl," Medford Mail, March 17, 1893, page 3


    Hotel Medford now uses menu cards, which add to its metropolitan features. Landlord Purdin is the right man in the right place.
"Medford Squibs," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, March 31, 1893, page 2


    Weeks Bros. of this place have just finished and put in place one of the finest bars in the county for landlord Purdin, of the Medford hotel. It was nearly all of hard wood and finely finished.
"Phoenix Items," Ashland Tidings, April 7, 1893, page 2


    The new hardwood bar of the Hotel Medford was designed and constructed by Weeks Bros. of Phoenix, and is one of the handsomest in the state.
"Medford Squibs," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, April 14, 1893, page 2


    A half interest in the Hotel Medford property is offered for sale at a bargain, and anyone wanting to invest in the very best hotel business in the southern part of the state would do well to call soon.
"Medford Squibs," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, May 19, 1893, page 3





    A new and much larger safe has been added to the necessary office furniture of the Hotel Medford.
"All the Local News," Medford Mail, July 28, 1893, page 3


    Cap. J. T. C. Nash of the famous "Merion Mine" is about to close a sale of his valuable property, which has already netted him a fortune.
"Glendale," Roseburg Plaindealer, August 17, 1893, page 2


   Capt. J. T. C. Nash has sold his placer gold mine in Cow Creek Canyon to Col. W. H. Taylor of the International Nickel Mining Co. and associates for a consideration of $10,000 in the coin of the realm. The new owners will at once begin operation on an extensive scale, and put in a system of water works that will enable them to work all the year round. The Nash mine is probably one of the richest in Oregon and was sold dirt cheap.
"The City and Vicinity," Roseburg Plaindealer, August 24, 1893, page 3


    Joe Savage has severed his connections with Hotel Medford and Tuesday morning left for San Francisco.
"Purely Personal," Medford Mail, September 29, 1893, page 3


    Sherman Orton, as head cook, and W. D. Davis, second--both white--is the way the cookery of Hotel Medford is being handled at present. The patrons of that hostelry weep not when the Chinese cooks are given a ticket of go. Their only wish is that they will stay gone.
"All the Local News," Medford Mail, October 6, 1893, page 3


Medford Mail, December 1, 1893, page 1


    The Hotel Medford, of which M. Purdin is proprietor, is conveniently arranged for the accommodation of commercial travelers, for whom free sample rooms are provided. This popular hostelry is located directly opposite the Southern Pacific Company's depot. The building is constructed of brick, it is two stories in height, and is comparatively secure from all danger of fire. The rates per day, at the Hotel Medford, are from $1.25 to $2. Courteous treatment of guests and an excellent table service are prominent features connected with the management of this hotel. Traveling men, and tourists especially, have found Medford's hotel accommodations better than the average, probably for the reason that the location of the town is such that a large surrounding country is more accessible from this point than from any other.
Edward Gardner Jones, ed., The Oregonian's Handbook of the Pacific Northwest, 1894, page 211


    John Faris is the new dispenser of refreshments at the Hotel Medford. He is recently from Oroville, Cal., and is an adept and old hand at the business.
"All the Local News," Medford Mail, February 23, 1894, page 3


    Landlord Purdin realizes the necessity of giving ample room to his traveling patrons, and to better accommodate them he is having some of the smaller rooms made larger, by removing the partition between them and making one good-sized room from two small ones. Mr. Purdin is fully cognizant of the fact that a traveling man, even though he is ofttimes small in stature, requires plenty of room in which to navigate.
"News of the City," Medford Mail, April 6, 1894, page 3


    The brick building, Hotel Medford, owned by Gaines & Charles, was sold this week to Capt. J. T. C. Nash, the mining man of Canyonville, Douglas County; the consideration being $9000.
"Medford Items," Valley Record, Ashland, November 29, 1894, page 3


    I. L. Hamilton and W. P. H. Legate have purchased the furniture, fixtures, etc., of Hotel Medford from M. Purdin and took possession this week to conduct the same. David Crosby, of Riddle, is here helping them. Mr. Purdin will move to California.
"Medford Items," Valley Record, Ashland, October 11, 1894, page 3


    David Crosby, of Hotel Riddle, has accepted a position as clerk in Hotel Medford, and departed for that place Sunday. Dave, we'll miss your genial smiles.--Riddle Enterprise.
    Hotel Medford bar windows have been decorated in most artistic designs by A. L. Chapman, a recently arrived sign painter and all-round artisan.
"News of the City," Medford Mail, October 19, 1894, page 3




    For weeks past, yes, for months, The Mail has been hunting in various different localities for a moneyed man who could see the importance and necessity of a first-class hotel building in our city. We have advertised for such a man and have corresponded with many, but not until our advertisement came to the notice of Capt. J. T. C. Nash, a Glendale, Oregon capitalist and reader of The Mail, did we find a gentleman who had enough of confidence in our city's future to bank his money on that confidence.
     Mr. Nash was in Medford last Saturday, when the deeds to the property, and the cash in consideration therefor, changed hands. The deeds were made by James Gaines for one-half interest, consideration $4000, and by John Charles for the other half interest for $3700, consideration $7700. The purchase includes the building known as Hotel Medford, the barber shop occupied by W. L. Townsend, the grocery store occupied by Lumsden & Berlin, and the lots upon which they stand, also the twenty-five-foot lot adjoining the hotel on the south, making in all seventy-five feet fronting on D, or Front, Street, and one hundred on Seventh, or Main, Street.
    Many improvements have already been mapped out for this property, but only a few of them will be put into shape this winter. Those to receive immediate attention will be the repainting and papering of several rooms, among them being the office, dining room and saloon. That large tree on Seventh Street will also be cut down and an awning built along the north side. The improvements promised for the spring are the addition of another story to the main building, two stories to the barber shop and stores on the east, and on the vacant lot to the south three stories, making a solid brick building 75x104 feet in size and three stories high. [The Nash didn't become three stories until circa 1907.] In front of this building, on both sides, will be put down a solid cement walk. There will also be an elevator put in the building, which, if satisfactory arrangements can be made, will be operated by water from our city water works. The cost of the improvements to be made will fall not many dollars short of $10,000. Among the several changes to be made will be the entire remodeling of the interior of the house.
    A hotel, be it good or bad, shapes the stranger's opinion of the town--and Medford has had nothing to crow over in that line in the past, but thanks to good fortune, "the Medford" is now in the hands of a gentleman with modern and advanced ideas and capital sufficient at his command to carry out his every notion.
    Under the management of Hamilton & Legate the hotel has grown in popularity far in excess of their expectations--but what will be the new Medford under the new arrangement?--simply elegant and without a superior in Southern Oregon.
Medford Mail, December 14, 1894, page 4


    For weeks past, yes, for months, the Mail has been hunting in various different localities for a moneyed man who could see the importance and necessity of a first-class hotel building in our city. We have advertised for such a man and have corresponded with many, but not until our advertisement came to the notice of Capt. J. T. C. Nash, a Glendale, Oregon capitalist and reader of the Mail, did we find a gentleman who had enough of confidence in our city's future to bank his money on that confidence.
    Mr. Nash was in Medford last Saturday, when the deeds to the property, and the cash, in consideration therefor, changed hands. The deeds were made by James Gaines for one-half interest, consideration $4000, and by John Charles for the other half interest for $3700; total consideration $7700. The purchase includes the building known as Hotel Medford, the barber shop occupied by W. L. Townsend, the grocery store occupied by Lumsden & Berlin, and the lots upon which they stand, also the twenty-five-foot lot adjoining the hotel on the south, making in all seventy-five feet fronting on D, or Front, Street, and one hundred on Seventh, or Main, Street.
    Many improvements have already been mapped out for this property, but only a few of them will be put into shape this winter. Those to receive immediate attention will be the repainting and papering of several rooms, among them being the office, dining room and saloon. That large tree on Seventh Street will also be cut down and an awning built along the north side. The improvements promised for the spring are the addition of another story to the main building, two stories to the barber shop and store on the east, and on the vacant lot to the south three stories, making a solid brick building 75x100 feet in size and three stories high. In front of this building, on both sides, will be put down a solid cement walk. There will also be an elevator put in the building, which, if satisfactory arrangements can be made, will be operated by water from our city water works. The cost of the improvements to be made will fall not many dollars short of 10,0000. Among the several changes to be made will be the entire remodeling of the interior of the house.
    A hotel, be it good or bad, shapes the stranger's opinion of the town--and Medford has had nothing to crow over in that line in the past, but thanks to good fortune, "the Medford" is now in the hands of a gentleman with modern and advanced ideas and capital sufficient at his command to carry out his every notion.
    Under the management of Hamilton & Legate the hotel has grown in popularity far in excess of their expectations--but what will be the new Medford under the new arrangement?--simply elegant and without a superior in Southern Oregon.
Medford Mail, December 14, 1894, page 4




    The Hotel Medford has changed hands, and is now conducted by the popular landlords Messrs. Hamilton & Leggett. The senior member bears the suggestive sobriquet of "Shorty" among the traveling men, and it is the sentiment of the boys on the road that he has well earned the popularity he enjoys. The table service at the Hotel Medford is equal to that of any hotel in Southern Oregon, a sufficient guarantee of its excellence. Free sample rooms are provided by the management for the commercial men, and no pains are spared for their comfort, as is fully attested by the growing patronage with which this house is favored.
"Medford," Morning Oregonian, Portland, January 1, 1895, page 11


    The Mail has much to say of the new hotel building that is to replace Hotel Medford, but having seen the plans of the new structure we conclude that too much cannot be said for it. It is the one thing that Medford has most needed for several long years. The hotel that now is was a pretty good one when it was built, eight or ten years ago, but Medford of today and Medford ten years ago are two almost entirely different places. Those of our citizens who were the cornerstones of progress at that time have been acting in the same capacity during the lapse of years to the present date. To these have been added many new names, and all have labored assiduously to the city's general good. Many of those who thought the Grand Central was a pretty sleek affair are here still and when they see the new hotel the expression "immense" will be the extent of their utterance.
    What is now Hotel Medford will be known as Hotel Nash when the process of reconstruction will have been completed. The new name is given the house in honor of its present owner, Capt. J. T. C. Nash, and a fitting tribute to the gentleman it is. Mr. W. J. Bennet, the architect, has shown us the plans of the new structure, which are most convenient and grand, and credit in large lumps is due any gentleman capable of so cleverly planning a structure of this nature.
    The hotel, as we have stated in a previous issue, will be 75x100 feet in size and three stories high. The first two stories will be built of brick, or in fact will be the walls of the building as it now stands, and will be studded with double light windows. The entire new part at the south will be built of brick to a level with the walls now standing, and the entire third story will be built of steel, surmounted with galvanized iron cornice. The building will front toward the depot and will have three entrances from that side. One of these will be at the corner, opening into the office, the next one to the south will open into a hall leading to the elevator and stairway. Still further south will be doors opening into the sample room, or hotel bar, and still further south are doors opening into the commercial travelers' sample rooms, two in number. These latter rooms are only prospective at present. Over the office entrance, at the corner, will be a tower, seventy-eight feet in height, from sidewalk to finial. A copper weather vane of miner's pan, pick and shovel, emblematic of one of the principal resources of this valley--as well as of Mr. Nash's former vocation--will be placed at the top of this tower. The main entrance will be surmounted by a Grecian balcony, this terminating in a bay and the latter hooded with tower roof. This bay opens into the bridal chamber, which is on the third floor, and is to be 16x18 feet in size. There will be sixty-one sleeping rooms in the house--and not one of them will be dark. On the north side of the building will be two balconies, one for each second and third floor, and to run the entire length of the building. In the tower, above the roof of the main building, will be an observatory, provided with seats, and for use of guests and others about the city who care to use it. Leading to this observatory will be a walk over the roof of the main building from the top of the elevator. The building will be provided with electric lights, something like 160 in number, also electric call bells. The laundry room will be on the first floor and will be provided with the Montgomery complete laundry outfit. Each floor will be provided with patent water closets and baths. At two points on the third floor will be a hose and hose reel for use in case of fire. At the north and east sides are fire escapes--there being five points at which guests can easily escape should fire occur. There will be a twelve-foot concrete walk on two sides of the building. and a four-foot walk of like material south from Seventh Street, along the alley to the kitchen where there will be two large folding iron gates opening into a back court.
    The building throughout will be first class, and while any amount of credit is being bestowed upon Mr. Nash for thus giving to our city that which we have so long felt the need of, we must not forget the part which the master hand of Architect Bennet has taken in designing so beautiful a structure. The finishings of the house will be beautiful and in keeping with the general grandeur of the building itself. The bridal chamber will be a little palace--and incidentally let us mention that Capt. Nash is still an unmarried man, and let us further state that upon the opening night of this grand hotel, there is a probability of there being two events to celebrate--and one of them a wedding.
    Work on the new building will begin sometime in February, some 200,000 brick having already been contracted for. The first work will be that of putting up the new part. When this is up two stories the entire third story will be put up over the roof of the part now standing--thus the business of the hotel will not be interfered with.
Medford Mail, January 11, 1895, page 4


    Capt. Nash is in Portland and expects to open bids for his new hotel when he returns.
"Medford Items," Valley Record, Ashland, February 14, 1895, page 3


    Plans have been drawn for rebuilding the hotel at Medford for Captain J. T. C. Nash. The front of the first and second stories will be brick, and the third of rolled steel. The Hotel Nash will be a fine structure.
"News of the Northwest: Oregon," Sunday Oregonian, Portland, January 13, 1895, page 4


    Bids for the erection of Hotel Nash on the Hotel Medford site will be opened on the first and work will probably be commenced by the 15th of February.
"Medford Items," Valley Record, Ashland, January 31, 1895, page 3




    Work on Hotel Nash is being pushed ahead at a rapid pace. The second story wall is being put up this week, and by another Saturday night the brick work ought to be very nearly completed.
"News of the City," Medford Mail, May 24, 1895, page 5


    Capt. Nash is not feeling very good over the city council's refusing to put in a proper sewerage for his new hotel and is figuring on turning the hotel into store buildings.
"Medford Items," Valley Record, Ashland, May 30, 1895, page 3


    Capt. J. T. C. Nash is standing the town of Medford on its head, though himself but a quite recent comer. He is putting an addition to his hotel and wants the city council to put in a sewerage system. The council does not want to put the town any further in debt and would rather smell the common plebeian garbage of the town than pay interest on bonds that could never be paid. Capt. Nash don't like it at all and the latest ukase issued by him is to sell all his property at cost while he leaves the town.
"Medford Items," Valley Record, Ashland, June 6, 1895, page 3


    The South Oregon Monitor, published June 7, 1895, is another of Mrs. [Mamie Isaacs] Riddle's prized possessions.  . . . According to the Monitor the good citizens of Medford seemed to be having an argument over the building of a sewer. In an editorial, Captain J. T. C. Nash, owner of the Nash hotel (now the Allen Hotel) was bringing pressure to bear upon the city fathers over the sewage question. The editorial reads, in part, "And why, forsooth, should the City of Medford build a sewer for Capt. Nash's hotel, or for anyone else for that matter. Let Capt. Nash throw his slops it the street, even though it smell to high heaven. Our forefathers have stood as bad and who are we that we should be more holy than they."
"Old Newspapers Give Sidelights on City History," Medford Mail Tribune September 24, 1940, page 2


    Landlord Hamilton has added a new beauty to the Hotel Nash office. It is a beautifully made oak receptacle for letters, stationery, toothpicks, ink stand and diverse other small articles. There is a bronze statue in the center and around the outside are well arranged advertisements of business houses of the city--among those most prominent is a picture of Mackey, the photographer. Shorty has also put in a clock that plays a tune every time it strikes the hour. Among other things most noticeable about this place is the painting and penciling of the outer walls.
Medford Mail, May 22, 1896, page 4


    Monday morning the work of putting down the cement walk around Hotel Nash was commenced by Theo. Dunn and Adam Clinedienst, the contractors, and will be pushed to completion as rapidly as possible. At the corner of the hotel, leading to the main entrance of the office will be something far out of the ordinary in workmanship and beauty. This part of the walk will be laid with diamond- and half-diamond-shaped blocks, stained with the national colors, red, white, and blue, and the large curbstone will have the name of Hotel Nash cut on it in large letters. It will require about a month's steady work to complete the walk.
"News of the City," Medford Mail, January 8, 1897, page 7


    No person has a license in saying that the new cement walk which Adam Clinedienst and Theo. Dunn are putting down in front of Hotel Nash is anything but an improvement of which the city ought to be proud. It is being so solidly and well put down that the pedestrians will not come thick and fast enough to wear it out--not in a thousand years. The walk will necessitate the outlay of nearly $500 and Captain Nash is entitled to the commendation of our whole town for the enterprise displayed. It is of such improvements as these that prosperous, solid towns are made.
"News of the City," Medford Mail, January 29, 1897, page 7


    Hotel Nash, Medford, is being renovated in first-class condition.


    Capt. Nash ordinarily is not a gentleman who allows his wrath to get so far beyond him that it is not an easy matter to reach out and haul in sails, but when he appeared on the street Monday morning his wrath was waterlogged and would not respond to the rudder. He was just naturally hot, and there were grounds for this heated condition. He is the owner of a fine brick hotel and has recently had built a splendid cement walk about the building, and the captain prides himself in keeping things neat about his premises, and when he discovered, lined up against his nicely painted walls and new cement walk, a furrow, deep enough to plant sugar beets in, of old quids of tobacco, cigar stumps and thick molasses-colored expectorant, he was just riled "clean through and through." Just why people who feel they must use this vile weed have not enough of manhood left to respect and keep neat and clean things that are beautiful is past finding out--but without any exaggeration whatever that sidewalk was a disgusting sight Monday morning. An anti-spit law that would protect such places ought to be passed by our city council.
"A Grist of Local Haps and Mishaps," Medford Mail, April 30, 1897, page 7


"Our Business and Professional People Briefly Mentioned," Medford Mail, May 28, 1897, page 3


    A cesspool of twenty barrels capacity is being put in tihs week in the alley between J. S. Howard's store building and Hotel Nash. The cesspool will be for the use of the hotel and will be built of brick and cement. Since the above was put in type a suit for an injunction has been commenced by J. S. Howard asking that further work on the cesspool be stopped. Judge Hanna granted a temporary injunction and ordered the hole already dug filled up.
"A Grist of Local Haps and Mishaps," Medford Mail, August 13, 1897, page 7


    I. L. Hamilton did not fight the injunction issued enjoining him from putting in a cesspool in the alley near Hotel Nash. He now has men at work putting in a cesspool on the hotel property.
"A Grist of Local Haps and Mishaps," Medford Mail, August 20, 1897, page 7



    Capt. Nash is contemplating the erection of a brick building adjoining his hotel. The lower story will be modeled into a store room, while the upper will be divided into rooms and used in connection with the hotel.
"Medford Squibs," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, February 17, 1898, page 3


    Capt. Nash had the American flag fluttering on the breeze from the flag pole on Hotel Nash, Wednesday, in honor of the dead sailors of the battleship, and to rejoice a little because of the fact that their awful fate is to be avenged by our government. The graduating class of the Medford High School conferred like honors by hoisting the school flag.
"City Happenings," Medford Mail, April 22, 1898, page 7


    Capt. Nash was in Jacksonville on Saturday. He has had much experience on the high seas, and will enlist as a commander in the navy if the war with Spain continues.
"Local Notes," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, May 9, 1898, page 3


    Hot baths at Hotel Nash barber shop.
Medford Monitor-Miner, June 16, 1898, page 3


    J. H. Bellinger is dispensing moist goods at Shorty's Hotel Nash thirst parlors this week--and he does it with an aptness that is a credit to the profession.
"City Happenings," Medford Mail, September 30, 1898, page 7


    Since the sewerage proposition has been decided upon by the city council, Capt. Nash has laid his plans for a thorough overhauling of Hotel Nash. The entire interior is to be rearranged. Upstairs the inside rooms are to be joined into suites of rooms, one of each to be joined with an outside room. Instead of two halls running at all angles as they do now, there will be but one hall, and it is to run from the head of the stairs through the entire length of the building. On the first floor the office desk will be arranged in the northeast corner of the office, the stairway will be widened, and a wash and cloak room will be put in where the desk now is. The dining room will also be remodeled. Next spring the captain is figuring on putting up another building on the south side of the present structure; in fact, he has already contracted for part of the work. This will be 25x100 feet in size and two stories high. The first floor will be used as an auxiliary sample room for commercial men and the upstairs for bedrooms. In reality, it will be an addition to the hotel. I. L. Hamilton, the present occupant of the hotel, has negotiated for the lease of the building for a term of years.
"City Happenings," Medford Mail, October 7, 1898, page 7


    Jas. Murray, the artist, is at Medford, embellishing the interior of Hotel Nash.
"Medford Squibs," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, October 31, 1898, page 3


    Extensive improvements are being made to the Hotel Nash. The inside of the second story will be remodeled and the whole building thoroughly renovated.
"Medford Squibs," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, October 31, 1898, page 3


    Capt. Nash will enlarge his hotel in a short time, so as to cover the lot adjoining on the south.
"Medford Squibs," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, February 9, 1899, page 3


    Miss Lena Carter, who has been connected with Hotel Nash for some time, is stopping with her parents, who reside on Williams Creek, Josephine County.
"Medford Squibs," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, March 9, 1899, page 3


    Fred Miller has been promoted to the position of Col. Hamilton's first lieutenant and is looking after the interests of the patrons of Hotel Nash in the most scientific manner.
"Medford Squibs," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, April 3, 1899, page 3


    Fred. Patterson of Roseburg, the well-known contractor (who enlarged Hotel Nash), has gone to Drain to begin work on a brick building for W. A. Perkins, and will probably put up one for Judge Lyons also.
"Medford Squibs," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, May 18, 1899, page 2




    S. R. Reeves, of La Grande, was in Medford this week looking over the city with a view to locating here. He is an experienced hotel man, having formerly been proprietor of the Gillman House at Portland and later engaged in a like business at La Grande. While here Mr. Reeves leased the Hotel Nash from I. L. Hamilton and will take possession thereof within a few days. Mr. Hamilton will retain the bar, Mr. Reeves having leased only the hotel proper. The rumors that Mr. Nash had sold the building and Mr. Hamilton the furniture and fixtures is wholly without foundation. Mr. Reeves and his wife are now down in California upon a brief pleasure visit.
"City Happenings," Medford Mail, June 23, 1899, page 7


    I. L. Hamilton will retire from the management of Hotel Nash, which he has graced so long, and will be succeeded by S. R. Reeves, who has had considerable experience as a landlord. Shorty will continue to conduct the saloon annex, however.
"Medford Squibs," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, June 29, 1899, page 2


    Ralph Woodford is officiating as night clerk at Hotel Nash and filling the bill acceptably.
"Medford Squibs," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, November 2, 1899, page 3




    The city of Rockland [Maine] was astonished by the return of Captain John T. C. Nash, of Medford, Ore. He had not been heard from in his town for thirty-eight years, and he returned to meet two brothers who have been keeping the old home. He had been supposed to be dead for many years, and he in his turn believed that his brothers had been lost at sea. During the time that he has been in the West he has moved through all the gold-producing states and is now said to be the wealthiest man in his town. He owns the principal blocks and controls large interests. Now that he has found his people again he will spend most of the summer at the old home.
"Old Homes Revisited," The New York Tribune, August 12, 1900, page 13


    Among the contemplated improvements for Medford is the probability of a third story being added to Hotel Nash. The building with its present capacity is inadequate for the demands. The rooms are full every night, and many rooms in various parts of the city are used by landlord Hamilton. This is an inconvenience to patrons, as they prefer to eat and sleep under the same roof.
"Purely Personal," Medford Mail, September 28, 1900, page 6


    Capt. J. T. C. Nash and family returned Saturday from their extended trip to Maine and other eastern states. The captain reports having had a delightful trip and a most enjoyable visit with relatives and friends whom he has not seen in forty years, but his delight at reaching home tells plainly of his preference for the Pacific Coast as an abiding place. Speaking of the return to Medford of Mr. Nash and his family the Rockland, Maine Courier says: "Myrick H. Nash returned Tuesday from Boston, where he was present at a farewell reception given to his brother, John T. C. Nash, and family, previous to their departure for their home in Medford, Oregon. The happy reunion took place at the home of Capt. E. R. Nash's daughter, Mrs. Alex B. Smith, in Quincy, Mass."
"Purely Personal," Medford Mail, October 12, 1900, page 6


    Capt. J. T. C. Nash is now contemplating the construction of another story to Hotel Nash. This will make the building three stories high and will add forty additional sleeping rooms to the hotel, making seventy in all. The work would have been done this fall but for the fact that we weather has set in too soon to admit it. However, the addition will be made as early as possible in the spring.
"City Happenings," Medford Mail, November 2, 1900, page 7


    Capt. J. T. C. Nash has sold his brick livery stable, but to whom is not written. There is a little rivalry on between two would-be buyers. R. S. Lane, of Roseburg, is one of the gentlemen who wants to buy it, and York & Wortman as well have a buyer for it. The price paid, or to be paid, is $2600.
"City Happenings," Medford Mail, November 30, 1900, page 7


    Hotel Nash is crowded, and landlord Hamilton is often compelled to engage rooms elsewhere for some of his customers. Another story will probably be added to the building next year.
"Medford Squibs," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, December 3, 1900, page 3


    Capt. Nash was presented with a Christmas gift that was a genuine New England treat, the same being several mince pies, direct from Massachusetts, and ready for the table. No housewife, unless she was born and raised in the old New England states, can put up mince pies equal to the Puritan article of early days.
"City Happenings," Medford Mail, January 4, 1901, page 7


    Cal. Slagle is officiating as night clerk at Hotel Nash, vice B. L. Stoner, who has taken the road for Palm, Whitman & Palm.
"Medford Squibs," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, January 24, 1901, page 3


    Sherman Orton, formerly cook at Hotel Nash, has returned to Medford and accepted that position again.
"Medford Squibs," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, February 14, 1901, page 2


    York & Wortman, real estate dealers, last week brought action against Capt. J. T. C. Nash to recover $100, the alleged price they were to have received as commission in the sale of the Nash livery stable.
"Medford," Valley Record, Ashland, April 25, 1901, page 3


    Ed. Pottenger has opened a butcher shop in the Nash Hotel block in the room formerly occupied by Warner & Wortman.
"Medford," Valley Record, Ashland, May 2, 1901, page 3


    Cal. Slagle, for several months past night clerk at Hotel Nash, has resigned his position and will soon leave for Coquille City, where his brother, F. S. Slagle, is engaged in the merchant tailoring business. He has been succeeded as night clerk by Bert Miller, of this city.
"City Happenings," Medford Mail, May 17, 1901, page 7


    Jas. Eaton has resigned his position as wine clerk at the Nash Hotel bar and has been succeeded by Chas. Gay, an experienced mixologist, until recently engaged in a similar capacity for a Portland home club. Mr. Eaton expects to leave Medford soon, and will probably go to Mankato, Minnesota.
"Additional Local," Medford Mail, June 14, 1901, page 6


    Charley Gay is chief mixologist at the Hotel Nash bar, which position none can fill better than he. He always gives satisfaction.
"Medford Squibs," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, July 18, 1901, page 5


    Capt. J. T. C. Nash returned Wednesday morning from his mining property, near Leland. He has recently purchased 120 acres of railroad land and 160 acres of government land and is opening up an immense placer mine. The land is about five miles from Leland and is near the celebrated mine which Mr. Nash sold a few years ago for a fabulous sum. Mr. Nash has had five miles of ditch surveyed and expects soon to commence work on its construction.
"Purely Personal," Medford Mail, July 19, 1901, page 6


    Capt. Nash returned Tuesday from his mine on Grave Creek. The Captain is pushing the work in order to get ready for the season run this winter and now has under way 8 miles of ditch from Poorman Creek where he gets his water supply. At present he has 18 men at work.--Medford Enquirer.
"Local Happenings," Rogue River Courier, Grants Pass, August 15, 1901, page 3


    C. O. Ramsey, the always courteous day clerk at Hotel Nash, spent Sunday at Colestin.
"Purely Personal," Medford Mail, August 16, 1901, page 6


    Capt. J. T. C. Nash left Monday evening for his mining property, near Leland. He has let a contract for digging eight miles of ditch and the construction of a wagon road, also has lumber ordered for buildings at the mine. He expects to have water on the ground and washing dirt by the middle of January.
"Purely Personal," Medford Mail, August 30, 1901, page 6


    J. B. Sell, of Ashland, has purchased the horses and rigs of the Nash Livery Stables from D. T. Cox and has taken possession of the same. Mr. Sell is a young man of pleasant address and seemingly is a hustler for business. He says he will keep everything in good shape about the stables and promises to treat everybody strictly on the square. As two Ashland people have but recently purchased livery stables in Medford, the indications are pointing in one of two ways--either Ashland is endeavoring to absorb Medford, or her people are becoming weary of inertia and are launching out in a locality where there's "something' doin'."
"City Happenings," Medford Mail, August 30, 1901, page 7


    Judge James Stewart has taken a position as night clerk at Hotel Nash. Legal and office business requiring his attention will be looked after during the afternoon of each day.
"City Happenings," Medford Mail, September 27, 1901, page 7


    Capt. J. T. C. Nash left Tuesday morning for his mine near Leland. He started with [a] team, taking a full complement of housekeeping necessities--evidently intending to remain several weeks.
"Purely Personal," Medford Mail, October 25, 1901, page 6


    E. W. Carver has taken a position as wine clerk at the Hotel Nash bar. W. F. Taggart has taken a similar position with the Medford Distilling and Refining Company and Chas. Hay is performing like duties in W. J. King's Turf Exchange.
"Additional Local," Medford Mail, October 25, 1901, page 6


    Capt. Nash is at his mines in Grave Creek district.
    Dr. Carver is doing the grand mixologist act at the Hotel Nash bar. He is always a winner.
"Medford Squibs," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, October 31, 1901, page 2


    It costs no more to patronize a first-class laundry than it does one of the fourth-class order. The Grants Pass Laundry is strictly first-class and up-to-date in all its work. Bates Bros. at Hotel Nash barber shop are our Medford agents.
"City Happenings," Medford Mail, November 1, 1901, page 7


    Mrs. J. T. C. Nash returned Monday from a visit to the mine near Leland.
"Purely Personal," Medford Mail, November 8, 1901, page 6


    Capt. Nash is in Grave Creek district, looking after a big mining enterprise he is inaugurating.
"Medford Squibs," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, February 20, 1902, page 4


    Mrs. J. T. C. Nash will leave next week for her old home at Denver, Ind., to visit her mother, who is quite ill. She will be accompanied by her brother, who resides in California.
    Mr. and Mrs. L. H. Settles left Medford Wednesday for their new home in Ashland, which they purchased a few months ago. Mr. Settles, better known as "Shorty's man Friday," has been an attache of Hotel Nash for several years and has made a great many friends, all of whom will wish himself and most estimable wife success in their new home. Mr. Settles will do gardening in Ashland.
"Purely Personal," Medford Mail, March 7, 1902, page 6


    Capt. J. T. C. Nash, owner of Hotel Nash, is contemplating making several changes about the hotel this spring. Plans are not as yet fully completed, but it is assured that a third story will be built to the structure. The third story will be for sleeping rooms exclusively and will give about four additional rooms. The changes in the general arrangement of the building are now undergoing consideration. It is quite probable that the office, dining room and kitchen will be moved to the second story. This will give an opportunity to get light and air to the kitchen, a condition which does not not now exist. The space now occupied by the dining room and kitchen and part of the office will be for rent, under the new arrangements, for store purposes, making three good rooms. The hotel bar will be moved to the present office, and the card room will be where the bar now is. There will also be an elevator put in. Landlord Hamilton is handicapped many times by not having sufficient room, and at all times he is handicapped by the inconvenience of the kitchen arrangements.
"City Happenings," Medford Mail, March 14, 1902, page 7


    Many of our citizens are feeling unkindly towards members of the city council who were instrumental in causing the electric wires connecting Hotel Nash to be cut, and this at a time when Mr. Hamilton, the proprietor, was in Portland. Before leaving for Portland Mr. Hamilton asked Councilman Deuel, chairman of the light and water committee, to permit the lights to remain in the hotel until he returned, and he was given to understand that they would remain undisturbed until that time, but Mr. Ulrich, another member of the council, disregarded the commitments made by Mr. Deuel and on April first by his (Ulrich's) orders the wires were cut, and the hotel was left without means of lighting save by coal oil lamps. It was this act which caused Mr. Deuel to tender his resignation as councilman. Inasmuch as Mr. Ulrich is not a member of the light and water committee, his act seems to have taken on a spirit which could hardly be termed one of fairness and justice. It is hardly the mode of procedure usually adopted by men possessed with a desire to deal fairly, one with another. In view of the further fact that Mr. Hamilton has been a monthly contributor to the city fund to the extent of $27 for a number of years it would seem but right that his wishes be respected, notwithstanding the fact that he had declared his intention to remove the lights. This cutting of the wires grew out of an order made a few weeks ago requiring all owners or renters of buildings to pay for the wiring in said buildings, and the payment of the amount assessed to him was refused by Mr. Hamilton.
"City Happenings," Medford Mail, April 11, 1902, page 7


    Landlord Hamilton has put in a new coal oil gas generator lamp in the bar room of Hotel Nash. He will also put a lamp of similar make in the office and dining room. These lamps give our a splendid light, and one of them is equal to several electric lights in lighting power. One coal oil generator will afford lights for all the lower story of the hotel.
"Additional Local," Medford Mail, April 18, 1902, page 6


    Capt. J. T. C. Nash has found a receipt from J. C. Baird for $123, which amount was paid Mr. Baird for placing the electric light wires in Hotel Nash--and the city does not, nor never has, owned the wires in this hotel--but a councilman ordered the wires cut just the same. Mr. Hamilton has redress in this matter--he could sue the city for damages--but he will not do it. He realizes that while the city is liable for the acts of a councilman, the citizens and taxpayers are not directly responsible for mistakes they may have made or honors they have undeservedly bestowed, and he does not propose heaping upon them the expense of a law suit.
"City Happenings," Medford Mail, April 18, 1902, page 7


    I. L. Hamilton of Hotel Nash has put in a coal oil gas generator for lighting the hotel. It makes a fine light.
Medford Enquirer, April 19, 1902, page 5


    Charlie Gay has taken a position as dispenser of liquid refreshments behind the Hotel Nash bar. Charlie is one of the best in the land in his line.
"City Happenings," Medford Mail, May 2, 1902, page 7


    Chas. Gay, the expert mixologist, officiates at Hotel Nash bar again. He succeeds E. B. Hamilton, who will go to Portland soon.
    Capt. Nash has been in Josephine County for several days, looking after the mining enterprise he inaugurated some time ago. He has been quite successful [in] this line, but feels that his latest venture will prove the best of them all.
"Medford Squibs," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, May 2, 1902, page 5


    George Porter is now temporary night clerk at Hotel Nash--doing service while the regular clerk--Judge James Stewart--is doing some campaign work.
"City Happenings," Medford Mail, May 9, 1902, page 7


    Mrs. J. T. C. Nash and son returned Monday from a two months' visit with her parents in Denver, Ind.
"Medford," Sunday Oregonian, Portland, May 11, 1902, page 21


    Bert Miller has taken a position as night clerk at Hotel Nash. Judge Jas. Stewart has been switched from night to day clerk at this popular hostelry.
"City Happenings," Medford Mail, May 30, 1902, page 7


    Capt. Nash has returned from his Josephine County mines, which he is developing on a large scale. They will be ready for operation when the rainy season comes.
    Miss Tessie Saltmarsh will leave this week on an extended visit east. She has been employed at the Nash Hotel for over two years, and during that time made many friends, who will wish her a pleasant time.
"Medford Squibs," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, June 12, 1902, page 8



    CAPT. JOHN T. C. NASH. Yet another of the forerunners of civilization to step from a life before the mast, and in the wild and unsettled West find a continuation of the life of adventure and danger to which storm and tempest had accustomed him, is Capt. John T. C. Nash, a pioneer miner of 1850, an Oregonian since 1886, and a retired citizen of Medford since the early '90s. Hotel Nash, erected in 1895, with every thought for the comfort and convenience of guests, is a monument to the enterprise and sound business forethought of this honored man, while the esteem and popularity which he enjoys among his friends and the community at large is the best evidence of his fine personal traits and public spiritedness. Although conducted personally by Captain Nash, the management of the hotel has always reflected credit upon the builder, and is always patronized by a large transient and permanent trade, its sixty guest chambers affording ample accommodation for emergencies. Other property has come into his possession in the town and county, aside from his own beautiful home on the outskirts, which is surrounded by a fine hedge twelve feet high.
    Captain Nash was born in Knox County, Me., March 31, 1833, and when ten years old put to sea as a cabin boy on the ship of his father, Capt. Thomas Nash. The latter was also a native of Maine, as was also his wife, Rebecca (Elwell) Nash, the mother of four sons and three daughters, of whom John T. C. was the second. Capt. Thomas Nash began at the bottom round of the ladder in a sailing vessel, advancing to the position of able seaman, finally assuming command of the ship, upon which his death occurred when his son John T. C. was eighteen years old. True to teaching and example, the latter also advanced in nautical lore, took kindly to the freedom-loving existence, and courted rather than shunned danger and adventure. In 1848 he became mate of the William Jarvis, and in 1849 was quartermaster on the steamer Philadelphia. Some time prior to coming to the Pacific coast Captain Nash was employed on the Mississippi River, sailing the steamer Lyon until it was blown up. Later he sailed the steamer New Guatemala between New Orleans and Havana, Cuba. For a time thereafter he mined in California, but soon returned to his former business and had charge of the steamer Patagonia, plying between Valparaiso and London, England. This was followed by a return to California, where he was employed in the mines until placed in command of the clipper ship Silver Sea Wing, running from Valparaiso to Manila. He made two voyages. The captain has had many narrow escapes from a watery grave. At one time he was off Cape Horn in a terrible storm, during which the ship was [dismasted] and the rudder lost. Later the ship came into port with nothing but her lower sails and a jury rudder, which had been improvised from a barrel of water. Another narrow escape occurred off Cape Hatteras, when everything above deck was swept into the sea, and but for the timely arrival of another ship everyone would have been drowned. In 1850 Captain Nash first touched western shores as quartermaster of the sailing bark Illinois, having rounded the Horn and reached San Francisco just as the mining excitement was at its highest point. Quitting his ship, he engaged in placer mining on the Yuba River, and in 1852 took advantage of the exodus to Minnesota, Cal., where fortunes were supposed to await all who journeyed hither. A year later he went with renewed confidence in golden reports to Gold Lake, but for a year looked in vain for the wealth he had so fondly hoped for. These disappointments caused renewed faith in the occupation of sailing, and the year 1855 found him again in Maine, where he purchased a sailing craft called the Shenandoah, of which he became commander, and contracted to carry rock for the government to Staten Island. In 1857 he sold his vessel and came to the West by way of the Isthmus, engaging in mining at Monte Cristo, the following year going to La Porte, Cal., and later to Bald Mountain, at that time yielding large amounts of gold, but which has since then been phenomenally remunerative. He was the fortunate discoverer of the Yankee mine in 1859, upon which he erected a mill, but finally sold it, becoming identified in a similar capacity with the Black Bear mine in Siskiyou County, which he also sold, but which is still being operated.
    During 1859 Captain Nash returned to the East via the Isthmus of Panama and in 1860 was again in California, mining there and in the Boise Basin, Idaho, in the Caribou district, and in other parts of the Northwest. During the early days of the mining excitement in Idaho, Captain Nash, with a party of five other men, went on a prospecting tour, and while in the Green River country a band of one hundred wild Indians attacked them. When the Indians were within two hundred yards the men opened fire upon them, causing a lively retreat on the part of the Indians. About thirty Indians and horses were killed, and this so incensed the Indians that they renewed their attack upon the white men, who were saved with one exception, owing to the fleetness of their American horses. Picking up their dead comrade they carried him on a pack horse until they were out of danger, and then buried him. In his mining experiences Captain Nash was successful beyond his expectations, and in 1865 returned to California and mined in Trinity County until 1886. Near Riddles, Douglas County, he engaged in farming on four hundred acres of land for one year, during which time he continued to mine and prospect on Cow Creek, where he opened and developed the Victory mine, which has proved quite remunerative. Retiring from the farm, he located in Medford, as heretofore stated, and has since made this place his home.
    October 14, 1897, Captain Nash was united in marriage with Miss Ella Brown, a native of Columbia City, Ind., and a daughter of Daniel Brown, who lived and died in Indiana. Mr. and Mrs. Nash have one son, Elwell Crawford, born May 27, 1899. Fraternally the captain is widely known and is associated with Blue Lodge No. 103, A.F.&A.M., and the Royal Arch Chapter of Jacksonville. In national politics he is a Republican, and in religion is a member of the Presbyterian Church. Hale and hearty and good-natured, Captain Nash is a typical pioneer, broad-minded, liberal and humane, and with a fine capacity for making and keeping friends. In his travels Captain Nash has been around the world once by water, has visited all the large cities in the world, and been in all the seaports from Alaska to Cape Horn on the Pacific, and from Cape Horn to Prince Edward Island on the Atlantic. The last ship which he sailed on was the clipper ship Pride of the Ocean, in the service of the East India trade.
Portrait and Biographical Record of Western Oregon, Chapman Publishing Co., Chicago, 1904, page 735.
The Pride of the Ocean, a 1,400-ton clipper, in 1854 was one of the five ships that carried England's 17th Lancers from Portsmouth to the Crimea--and the Charge of the Light Brigade.


    The Hotel Nash is now conducted by Reddy & Ragsdale. In our account of the change in management last week it was stated that the matter of future management was still undecided, as quite a number of rumors were afloat as to what would be done in this regard. Mr. Ragsdale, however, now retains an interest in the business, and the hotel and its accessories will be carried on the same as of yore. During Mr. Ragsdale's management of the hotel he has made so many and such warm friends among our people that the majority of the citizens of this town will be glad to know that he will remain among us. Dr. Reddy's prominence in business affairs for the development of Southern Oregon are too well known to need comment here. It will suffice to say that he is in touch with large capitalists all over the country and believes in investing capital in developing favorable enterprises. That he has found such investments in Southern Oregon is shown by the interests he already has acquired. The firm of Reddy & Ragsdale has the best wishes of the Mail.
"City Happenings," Medford Mail, November 4, 1904, page 5




    Captain J. T. C. Nash is here from his home in Berkeley, California. Captain Nash is well known in Medford. He is the owner of Hotel Nash, and he is here on one of his twice-a-year visits in the interests of his property. While here he will consult with the hotel people and several contractors regarding coming improvements and embellishments in the hotel lobby.
    Captain Nash is an interesting personality, and is full of reminiscences of the West and the sea. He was long a sea captain, where he won his title.
Medford Sun, December 27, 1910, page 1


    George Carstens is the latest man to enter the lists as a "white hope." The popular night clerk of the Nash took on his first in the lobby Friday night. A right hook to the jaw did the work. His opponent was left on the sidewalk.
"Local and Personal," Medford Mail Tribune, August 19, 1911, page 2


    Jevver go around looking for misspelled signs? Take a trip along Main Street and in five minutes you may see sandwiches spelled "sandwitches," "commercial" spelled with one "m," and the "N" in the sidewalk in front of the Nash upside down. Somebody ought to appoint a municipal proofreader.
"Jolts and Jingles by Ad Brown," Medford Mail Tribune, September 14, 1911, page 4