Died--Pickel.

    Not for many seasons has the social side of Medford been so brilliantly portrayed or gathered together under such pleasant environments as on last Monday evening, the occasion being the fifteenth anniversary of the wedding day of Dr. and Mrs. E. Barton Pickel. The large circle of friends and social acquaintances of the popular doctor and his estimable wife were kept in pleasing anticipation for several days after the receipt of the invitations, and it is but a deserve compliment to the host and hostess to say that the most sanguine expectations of their guests were far outdone by the splendid hospitality that greeted them. It is a fact often commented upon that the elegant home of Mr. and Mrs. Pickel constitutes one of the happiest in the city--and on this occasion they took, for the time being, all their friends into its domain of peaceful joy and pleasure, and gave bountifully of its cheerful and grateful influences to the favored number who gathered on the gaily lighted lawn and in the cozy home to extend their sincerest congratulations, and to wish the happy couple many returning anniversaries.
    The guests began to arrive at 8:30, and were received by Mrs. W. I. Vawter, who conducted them within, where the host and hostess were stationed to receive their congratulations. They were then extended the freedom of the home, the interior of which was like a glimpse of fairyland, or the dream of a lover of the beautiful--a garden full of rare and fragrant flowers and twining vines, festoons of sweet brier reaching from the walls to the chandeliers, and every nook and corner filled with potted palms and other pretty plants and cut flowers in abundance, the whole blending prettily into a color scheme of green and white. Without, the kindly moon lent its influence toward enlivening the scene, and its quivering bars of silver light sifted through the foliage of the oak trees and fell upon tables whose rich decorations formed the only artificial auxiliaries to the lavish blessings of nature, displayed on every hand. When the guests were bidden to be seated, the place of prominence was occupied, of course, by the host and hostess, Mrs. Pickel being elegantly and tastily costumed in a gown of light gray organdy trimmed in narrow bands of black velvet ribbon, and wearing orange blossoms, while the "groom" was clad in the conventional black--a reproduction of the costume worn on the occasion which was so happily commemorated on this evening. The menu, gracefully served by the young ladies of the Kettle Drum Club, assisted by Misses Woodford and Webb, consisted of cold meats, pressed chicken, salads, tomatoes, salted almonds, cherries, dates, ice cream, coffee and cake. Dainty favors accompanied each cover.
    Over one hundred guests were noted, among those from out of town being Mr. and Mrs. Carter, of Ashland, Mr. and Mrs. Gus Newbury, Dr. and Mrs. Robinson, Mr. and Mrs. Love and John Miller, of Jacksonville, Dr. and Mrs. Hargrave, of Phoenix, and Mrs. Bradley, of Eugene. During the evening congratulatory telegrams were received from friends in Tennessee, and in Portland, Eugene and other places in Oregon. The pleasure of the evening was further increased by a delightful vocal and instrumental musical program consisting of vocal solos by Dr. Burnett, Mrs. Vawter, Maysie Foster and Carl Webb, vocal duet by Mr. and Mrs. E. E. Gore, instrumental duet by Misses Webber and Foster, and a piano solo by Miss Webber.
    It was a late hour when the guests departed, and it is safe to say that no similar event in the course of years was more thoroughly enjoyed by those attending than this one, and that the good wishes of the guests were as sincere as they were numerous. The event was a social success in every way and reflects great credit on the happy host and hostess, and the Mail joins with their large circle of friends in wishing them many returning anniversaries. The tokens of friendship presented consisted of cut glassware, and were richly beautiful and very numerous; yet it cannot be doubted that Dr. and Mrs. Pickel will value them for their intrinsic value far less than for the loving remembrance of the donors.
Medford Mail, May 18, 1900, page 6


    The event of the season was the 15th wedding anniversary of Dr. and Mrs. E. B. Pickel, last Monday evening. The evening was perfect, and over 100 guests offered their congratulations. The house was beautifully decorated in green and white, and the grounds were ablaze with lanterns and lamps. Tables were spread on the lawn, loaded with nearly everything that could tempt the appetite, while in the parlors music was furnished by Medford's best talent. The presents were numerous and costly. Guests were present from Eugene, Ashland and Jacksonville.
"Medford," Sunday Oregonian, Portland, May 20, 1900, page 15


Sunday Oregonian, Portland, May 20, 1900, page 15


    Miss Della Pickel, a member of the junior class of the University of Oregon, came home last Friday, and soon afterward started for Mount Prospect, where she will teach the summer school.
"Medford," Sunday Oregonian, Portland, June 24, 1900, page 15


    Dr. Pickel is having more fun than anyone with his new X-ray machine. He put the machine in a few weeks ago, at a cost of $600, but not until within the last few days has he had it in successful operation. The machine is complete in every detail and is sure to prove of great benefit to the doctor in his practice, especially in surgery cases, of which he has not a few. It is indeed a remarkable thing, this X-ray. Imagine looking right through one's hand or arm and discerning very distinctly the bones! That is just what it enables one to do--as many in Medford will bear witness. Harold Lumsden was in the doctor's office, with others, looking through the instrument on Tuesday evening of this week. Several years ago Mr. Lumsden suffered a broken arm. This was placed under the X-ray, and the break could be easily seen, also an enlargement of the bone at that particular point. The doctor's foot, with shoe on, was placed before the light, and the bones in the foot could be seen plainly, as could also be counted the large nails in his shoe heel. The ray will be used by the doctor in examining into the nature of broken bones, also in examination after they have been set to ascertain if they are in their right place, also in case of wounds from firearms in locating the bullet. The doctor has put a water wheel in his office, and this is the power which drives the electric machinery that produces the X-ray. This is the only X-ray machine between Albany, Oregon and Yreka, Calif.
"City Happenings," Medford Mail, July 20, 1900, page 7


    Dr. and Mrs. E. B. Pickel, who have been rusticating on Applegate, got back Sunday.
"Medford Squibs," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, August 23, 1900, page 3

    Dr. E. B. Pickel of Medford is still coroner of Jackson County. Dr. G. B. Cole of Eagle Point, who was elected to that office in June, having failed to qualify. He held an inquest over the remains of W. E. Piland, who was found dead in his bed at the Ashland House Friday.
"Local Notes," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, November 22, 1900, page 3


    Dr. Pickel's new residence on West Seventh Street is rapidly nearing completion.
"Additional Local," Medford Mail, February 1, 1901, page 6

    Dr. Pickel's new residence in West Medford is fast nearing completion. It is one of the prettiest and most imposing dwellings in the town and is a credit to our city of 2100 and over population. E. W. Starr is doing the carpenter work, and to him is due credit for much of its artistic appearance. The dwelling will be for rent.
"Additional Local," Medford Mail, February 22, 1901, page 6

    Milton Maule is doing the painting of Dr. E. B. Pickel's new West Seventh Street residence, and is doing good work.
"Additional Local," Medford Mail, March 29, 1901, page 6


    The commencement exercises of the University of Oregon are being held at Eugene this week. Two Medford.girls, Misses Bessie Hammond and Adele Pickel, are members of the graduating class.
"Additional Local," Medford Mail, June 21, 1901, page 6


    The cottage built by Dr. Pickel in the western part of town for renting purposes is a beauty. It is not rented yet, but will be in demand later.
"Medford Squibs," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, June 27, 1901, page 5


    Miss Adele Pickel, who has been attending the University of Oregon, at Eugene, from which institution she recently graduated with honors, has returned to her home in this city.
"Purely Personal," Medford Mail, July 5, 1901, page 6


    Miss Lulu Straw, who has been stopping in Medford for several months taking X-ray treatment from Dr. Pickel for face trouble, left Tuesday morning for her home at Yreka, Calif. She was very much improved, and will soon go to Klamath Falls, where she will receive like treatment by her brother, Dr. Straw.
"Purely Personal," Medford Mail, July 19, 1901, page 6


    Dr. Pickel was called to Ashland last week to investigate a reported case of smallpox. One physician in that city declared the malady to be smallpox, but another physician differed with him in the diagnosis, hence Dr. Pickel's visit. Dr. Pickel pronounced it a well-defined case of smallpox, but in so mild a form as not to cause alarm.
"Purely Personal," Medford Mail, July 26, 1901, page 6


    Miss Adele Pickel left Medford Monday evening for Bryn Mawr, Penn., where she will take a postgraduate course in the college at that place. Miss Pickel graduated from the Oregon state university [University of Oregon] last year. She will confine her studies to English literature at the above-named college.
"Purely Personal," Medford Mail, September 6, 1901, page 6


    Miss Adele Pickel has gone to Philadelphia, to attend Bryn Mawr College.
"Medford Squibs," Democratic Times, Jacksonville, September 19, 1901, page 7


    Mr. and Mrs. J. A. Perry left Sunday morning for Albany, Oregon, where they will visit relatives for a couple of weeks. Mr. Perry is figuring on bagging a goodly number of China pheasants while in that locality--and Dr. Pickel, of this city, will join him in a few days of the sport--and try the mettle in his new fifty-dollar bird dog.
"Purely Personal," Medford Mail, October 4, 1901, page 6


    Michael Galarneau and son, of Klamath County, were in Medford Monday. The young Mr. Galarneau was afflicted with one very badly crossed eye, and it was for the purpose of having it straightened that the visit to our city was made. The operation was decidedly a delicate and difficult one owing to the fact that the eye was so badly crossed, but it was very successfully performed, and when through with the young man could see as straight ahead with it as he could with the one not afflicted. When given a mirror to look in after the operation, the young fellow could hardly believe it was his own face that reflected in the glass. The operation was performed by Dr. Pickel.
"City Happenings," Medford Mail, November 29, 1901, page 7


    Speaking about guns--(a subject which we were not speaking of at all)--Dr. Pickel has the gem implement of quail slaughter. It's a Lefever gun with gold triggers and indicators and cost just $165--even coin--and was furnished him by H. G. Nicholson, the hardware man. It is unquestionably a beauty, and the possessor of it has just reasons to presume that trespass notices will be no barrier and that with gold glimmer on his gun he ought to be licensed to shoot any old thing in any old place.
"City Happenings," Medford Mail, December 27, 1901, page 7


    Dr. Pickel has finished setting out nearly sixth black walnut trees on his lots on West Seventh Street, where he last winter erected the handsome residence now occupied by John C. Lucius and family. He will also seed the grounds about the house to grass for a lawn. The doctor does not contemplate further extensive improvements at present, but will merely keep the land in sufficient cultivation to keep the trees in a thrifty condition.
"City Happenings," Medford Mail, January 10, 1902, page 7


    Miss Sadie Amann met with quite a serious accident last Monday. She was doing the family washing, and in rubbing a garment over the washboard in which a large sewing needle was sticking, the point of the needle struck the fleshy part of her right thumb and penetrated that member to quite a depth and broke in two, one part remaining in the thumb. The young lady came to Dr. Pickel's office, where the X-ray was turned on the thumb, and by it the needle was located between the bones, and three incisions were necessary to be made before the needle could be removed. The wound was dressed and the young lady is getting along all right, but it will be several weeks at best before she can use her hand. Dr. Pickel was assisted by Mrs. Osborne. It was only a short time ago that Mrs. Amann, mother of Sadie, met with an accident to her right hand, and from the effects of which she has not yet fully recovered. She was "shooing" some hens out of the yard when her hand came in contact with a sharp scythe which was hanging in a tree, making an ugly wound in the back of her hand, severing the skin for several inches.
"City Happenings," Medford Mail, April 4, 1902, page 7


    Dr. E. B. Pickel has just reason for taking unto himself a goodly amount of pride in the manner in which he is so successfully bringing to the front his "401" orchard, north and east from Medford. It is not, ordinarily, to be presumed that a practicing physician has in him the qualifications requisite to a first-class orchardists, but Dr. Pickel is evidently out of the ordinary, as he has operated his orchard farm for the past three or four years with wonderful success. Aside from directing all the work incident to planting and caring for his orchard, he has planned and caused to be erected many substantial improvements not appertaining directly to horticulture. He is right now finishing a very fine barn. This building is 42x80 feet in size, eighteen feet posts and has a hay loft capacity for 150 tons of loose hay. There is also stall room in it for eighteen head of horses, and besides there is a fourteen-foot shed the full length of one side.
"City Happenings," Medford Mail, October 12, 1906, page 5


    Dr. E. B. Pickel will have office rooms upstairs in the new Jackson County Bank building. His suite of offices will comprise four rooms, two of which--his library and reception room--will front on Seventh Street, while his operating room will front on C Street and back of his library will be his X-ray room.
"City Happenings," Medford Mail, November 30, 1906, page 3




    Dr. E. B. Pickel of this city has been given more professional honor. He was last week elected president of the Oregon State Board of Health. The governor appoints this board and its members elect its officers. The board is composed of some of the most prominent and learned medical men of the state, hence and election to its presidency is no empty honor. Aside from this Dr. Pickel is also president of the Oregon State Medical Association, which has a membership of 365.
"City Happenings," Medford Mail, January 4, 1907, page 5


    Street Commissioner Higgins:--"One evening last week, as I was passing by the new Jackson County Bank building, I heard someone hammering on a window above me and calling for assistance, and looking up at a window in the third story I beheld the faces of doctors Pickel and Hargrave. My first impression was that they had been kidnapped, but they called to me and told me to go for Wes Johnson. I found Wes and we went to the building, where we found the two above-named gentlemen waiting, but very impatiently, for they were getting hungry. It happened that Dr. Pickel had invited Dr. Hargrave to go to the bank building and look at his new offices, and they tarried so long that all the men left the building and the door was locked by Wes Johnson. The two prisoners had called to innumerable persons who passed along the street, but they only smiled, waved a hand and passed on, thinking nothing of seeing the two doctors at the window. When relief came the two men were somewhat in a bad humor, as it was the hour for their evening meal, and they were beginning to think that they would be compelled to remain prisoners for the night."
"Things Told on the Street," Medford Mail, March 1, 1907, page 1


    On the westerly side of the [new Jackson County Bank] building, on C Street, is the stairway entrance to the second floor. The stairway is broad, and the steps are graduated in a manner that makes ascent easy. On the second floor are office rooms. The two rooms fronting on Seventh Street, one on C Street and an interior room which is lighted by means of a skylight, are occupied by Dr. Pickel. The corner room is a waiting chamber, while the room fronting on C Street is given to operating purposes. The interior room is occupied by the doctor's X-ray machine. The room fronting on Seventh Street contains Mr. Pickel's medical library, which is beyond a doubt the largest and most complete collection of medical works in the state. The other rooms on the second floor will be occupied by Hon. W. I. Vawter and M. Purdin, as law offices.
"Jackson County Bank Building," Medford Mail, March 22, 1907, page 1


    Dr. E. B. Pickel is making many improvements about his pretty West Seventh Street home. The house is being raised about two feet, new foundation put in, basement built for a furnace, and the entire dwelling will be piped for hot air heating. A new and much larger porch is also being built.
"City Happenings," Medford Mail, August 23, 1907, page 5


    Hon. W. I. Vawter and Dr. E. B. Pickel have laid plans for some beautiful landscape gardening about their homes on West Seventh Street. They each have half a block near the center of which are their residences, and they propose uniting the grounds and making them over into beautiful lawns, driveways, terraces and bowers of roses and other flowers. All the fences and hedges will be removed, and on the property line at the rear of the houses will be erected a fine barn for the use of both. A Portland landscape gardener is now working on a design.
"Local and Personal," Medford Mail, May 29, 1908, page 5


    Medford Mail: Miss Della Pickel, sister of Dr. E. B. Pickel of this city, who has been in the valley for several weeks visiting her many friends, started yesterday on her return to Douglas, Alaska, where she is principal of the public schools. She will stop en route at Eugene and Portland, where she has many warm friends.
"Personal," Eugene Daily Guard, August 7, 1908, page 8


     Following the sale to Honore Palmer comes another one of interest J. S. Cannon, C. W. Perkins and B. Gilman of San Francisco, and T. W. Roberts of Fresno, Cal. purchased Dr. E. B. Pickel's ranch, known as the "401" ranch, and containing 561 acres, 235 acres planted to commercial varieties of apples 1 to 4 years old, and 100 acres ready for planting. The balance is planted to pears. While the exact price has not yet been made public, it is known to be over $100,000.
"Palmer Buys at Medford," Morning Oregonian, Portland, November 13, 1908, page 9


    Dr. E. B. Pickel, of Medford, ordered a Packard 18 touring car last week from the Keats Auto Co., delivery to be made in March.
Sunday Oregonian, Portland, December 20, 1908, page D7




    The history of this ranch reads like a story out of the Arabian Nights in the magicry of the sudden fortunes that it has made for its owners. A few years ago it was a wheat farm. Then Dr. E. B. Pickel bought it for about $25 an acre. He improved it, and last June he sold it to the 401 Orchard Company for $110,000.
"The '401' Ranch," Medford's Magazine, April 1909, page 7


    Even dignified doctors have to encounter the humorous side of things at times, but they must always have the happy faculty of retaining under their lids anything in the way of a joke in which they are the unfortunate ones. Doctors, of course, according to the ethics of their profession, must at all times keep up a dignified bearing that is in keeping with their calling. However, the Evening Telegram has got wise to a good story in which a prominent Rogue River Valley physician is a conspicuous party. The Telegram says:
    Marooned on an automobile in the middle of Bear Creek, a few miles from Medford, Or., a party of physicians, including two Portland medicos, were forced to remove their shoes and hosiery, roll up their trousers and paddle around in the icy water for half an hour before they managed to drag the machine upon dry land. Running at a dangerous rate of speed against time, because of the delay, the automobile pulled into Grants Pass just in time for the Portland men to see their train pulling out. Waiting two hours for the second section, which was crowded, they had to curl up on the hard seats of a smoker and pass a most uncomfortable period until they reached home.
    Now that their strenuous adventure is past, the physicians perceive its humorous features, but they are not doing any advertising, at that. Several persons from Grants Pass, however, are not so uncommunicative. In substance, here is what they tell:
    Dr. Coffey and Dr. Pierce attended the annual meeting of the Southern Oregon Medical Association at Grants Pass May 11. The former read a paper on "Cancerous Growths and Modern Treatment," the latter on "Tuberculosis." To show the appreciation of Grants Pass physicians, Dr. E. B. Pickel took them for an automobile tour of the Rogue River Valley, incidentally desiring to make them jealous of his fine new machine. Mrs. Pickel and 11-year-old Carter Pickel rode with them.
    When about five miles from Medford, Dr. Pickel tried to demonstrate the marine prowess of his auto and started to cross Bear Creek. In the middle of the stream, about 15 feet from either shore, the tires refused to "bite," and then their troubles began. Almost standing on his head while leaning over the hood, Dr. Pickel tried to crank up, but succeeded only in showering the occupants of the machine with water. With dignified mien, Dr. Coffey then essayed to jump ashore. He made a tremendous leap, but--well, water is always wet.
    Discarding his dignity, the physician broke limbs off trees and gathered driftwood to build a pontoon bridge to the automobile from shore. Part of the time was spent in rescuing with a pole the personal effects of the chauffeur, which dropped into the creek while he was cranking up. The pontoon gave way just in time to let Dr. Pierce and Dr. Pickel, who were proceeding shoreward, off the water wagon.
    Then the physicians removed their shoes and hosiery and rolled up their trousers. After much coaxing, Dr. Coffey was induced to assist in helping get the machine out of the creek. This performance took almost half an hour, and before it was over all three had cold feet. Then the run for Grants Pass to catch the train began, the "speedometer" showing a gait of 30 miles an hour over a rough road.
    "If it hadn't been for you and Pickel losing five minutes lacing your shoes after we got the auto out of the creek, we wouldn't have to sit up all night," growled Dr. Pierce, as they gazed after the train vanishing Portlandward.
Medford Mail, May 21, 1909, page 8


    The Douglas school board had an all-day session last Saturday, but at its termination the teachers for the coming year were selected. They are as follows:
    Miss Robin E. Conn, 1st and 2nd grades; Miss Grace Hall, 3rd and 4th grades; Miss Ella Hogan, 5th and 6th grades; Miss Thora Smith, 7th and 8th grades; Miss Susanne W. Homes, assistant principal, and Miss Adele J. Pickel, principal. The latter two teachers will have charge of the high school department, comprising the grades 9, 10, 11 and 12. The Misses Conn, Smith and Pickel held positions in the school during the term just completed and are well known to the people of Douglas. Miss Hall is from Seattle; Miss Hogan from Tacoma, and Miss Homes from Ashland, Oregon. Miss Elna Olson, who taught the past term, was not an applicant for reappointment.
Douglas Island News, Douglas City, Alaska, June 16, 1909, page 3


    Miss Susie Homes of the Ashland High School stopped off to visit Mrs. F. M. Carter. She will later go to Douglas, Alaska, to take a position in the same school in which Miss Adele Pickel, a former Eugene High School teacher, is teaching.
"Eugene," Spokesman-Review, Spokane, Washington, July 23, 1909, page 9


    Dr. and Mrs. E. B. Pickel and their nephew, Master Carter Brandon, arrived home yesterday, after a trip of four weeks throughout the Pacific Northwest and all the southwestern ports of Alaska.
    While in Seattle, Dr. Pickel read a paper on "Nephritis and Its Comparative Frequency Over the Pacific Northwest," before the convention of the Pacific Northwest association which is composed of the medical associations of Oregon, Idaho, Washington and British Columbia.
    After the convention was over they sailed for Alaska, touching the ports of Wrangle and Sitka, and thence on to Juneau and Douglas. Here they visited the doctor's sister, Miss Adele Pickel, who has charge of the Douglas schools. While at Douglas they visited the Treadwell mine. This mine is one of the greatest, as well as the most unique in the world. It was discovered long before the Alaska rush by the Russians. The work was abandoned by them, and in the '90s was taken up by an American company. Since the ore was very low, and there was such an enormous lode, they devised the scheme of quarrying. The mine is worked very similar to a huge quarry, the ore being quarried out, conveyed to the quartz mills below, which are the largest in the world in regard to the number of stamps under one roof. There are within one of them something like 1500 stamps. A person not being able to speak to another because of the noise, a sign language is used instead.
    After a week's stay at Douglas, Dr. Pickel and his party left for Skagway and thence took the White Pass & Yukon Railroad for Lake Bennett.
    Dr. Pickel stated that he enjoyed his trip very much and that the weather was grand except for a little rain, though he said, "I'm glad to get back."
Medford Mail, July 30, 1909, page 5


    It is to the venturesome spirit of Dr. E. B. Pickel, a well-known physician of Southern Oregon, that the people of the Rogue River Valley owe the opening up to the planting of orchards of the large tract of land known as Big Sticky, however, better known among those familiar with the locality by several unmentionable aliases.
    In winter the roads through this district are impassable to a wagon. Even in a light buggy a driver must get out every few rods and knock the mud off the wheels with a club. To work this land as an orchard needs to be worked was considered impossible, and there was little belief that the land would ever grow trees. In fact grave doubts were expressed as to Dr. Pickel's mental arrangement when he, in the season of 1905, set out 8,000 trees, covering 140 acres. But when he followed this up by planting 4,000 more trees the next year it was freely predicted that Dr. Pickel was heading for the wall. Little did anyone, even the doctor, think that three years after the first planting the orchard would be sold at a profit of nearly $100,000.
    The story of Dr. Pickel's buy on Big Sticky reads like a fairy tale. It appears that the doctor and his wife had nearly completed plans for a trip abroad, but through the influence of Dr. Van Dyke, of Grants Pass, they became interested in orchard land and decided that if a suitable buy offered itself they would take it and postpone the trip abroad. One day Dr. Pickel was called on a case over into the Big Sticky district and his driver, who was familiar with the country, pointed out the Bush ranch of 161 acres which was about to be foreclosed by the state for the interest on money borrowed from the school land fund. Next to it was the Smith ranch of 240 acres which the driver said could be bought for $4000. Right then and there, Dr. Pickel forgot all his desires to see the cathedrals and art galleries of the old world. Instead he bought both farms, paying $6500 for the 401 acres.
    The trees set out on the 401 Ranch, as the orchard was called, grew fine, despite the dismal predictions. The soil was even found workable if handled at the right time and in the right way. The second year Dr. Pickel bought 160 more acres, but the farm was still known as the 401 Ranch. Last spring, feeling that the undertaking was too great for a single man to handle, the doctor sold out to a stock company for $110,000. The land, the trees, the improvements and the labor expended cost Dr. Pickel $35,000, leaving the difference as a handsome profit on a three-years' investment. The doctor has since then bought another place which he is developing. Now, nearly the whole of Big Sticky is being set out or has been set out to orchard.
Arthur M. Geary, "Enormous Wealth of Rogue River Orchards," Morning Oregonian, Portland, September 5, 1909, page F2


    The Douglas[, Alaska] school is a full 12-graded school, and the rapid advancement of this Alaskan school is due to the effort of a Medford, Or. woman, Miss Adele Pickel, who used every available means to raise the school to a level with any first-class school in the Northwest.
Minnie M. Bayne, "Largest Mine in the World," Sunday Oregonian, Portland, December 26, 1909, page F4


    Mr. Editor:--There are many patrons of your esteemed sheet who would be glad to voice their pleasure in the reelection of the present corps of teachers of the Douglas school and their acquiescence to serve. We are truly fortunate in securing their services, and no one appreciates them more than the patrons of the school.
    The recent debate of our high school with the Juneau High, over which there was such keen interest, is sufficient proof of the ability of some of them. It is a satisfaction to know that interest in the debate was strong on both sides of the channel and that in Juneau as well as Douglas there has been a generous recognition of the uncommon ability in the handling of the subject. This debate has certainly done more to strengthen the ties of friendship between the two Gastineau cities and to stimulate a healthy rivalry between the schools than anything of previous occurrence.
    How many people, outside from the teachers, students, intimate friends and a few outsiders, realize to whom the greatest credit is due for Douglas' victory? A great deal is due to the untiring efforts of Miss Adele Pickel and Miss Susanne Homes in securing and placing of material, much to the contestants, for where in America, or the whole world, can there be found better material with which to work than among our Alaskan girls and boys (prick up your ears, boys, this means you, too), but of what value is even the best material without a master hand to shape it? To Miss Thora Smith, the coach for the Douglas team, the honor is due. Do you realize the long, tedious hours, early and late, poring over dry statistics, digging down to the very origin of government, sorting and classifying material, cutting out here, putting in there, correcting and condensing of argument, drilling of contestants, carrying on of regular school work, sacrificing of social pleasures and much-needed rest? All of these things require a determination and perseverance that should arouse our sincerest admiration and appreciation.
    Let us give "three cheers for Miss Thora Smith" and the Douglas teachers; may they leave for their summer holidays with a full sense of the appreciation in which they are held by the people of Douglas Island.
    Thanking you for the use of your columns, I remain, respectfully,
Douglas Island News, Douglas City, Alaska, May 11, 1910, page 2


    Mrs. V. L. Holt entertained Friday afternoon in honor of her sister [sic], Miss Adele Pickel of Alaska. Miss Pickel formerly taught in the Eugene High School. She will teach in Alaska again this year. Mrs. Holt's guests were Mesdames Straub, Stafford, Dalzell, Balch, Small, Hannah, Collier, Elizabeth Chase, Jonathan Johnson, Loehr, Adams, Carroll, and Misses McCornack, Emma Chase, Nettie Chase, Bertha Chase, Cara Chase, Loehr and Carroll.
"Society," Eugene Guard, August 20, 1910, page 10


    The Cordova Alaskan says that Miss Adele Pickel has gone from that place to Valdez to become the bide of Wm. H. Kramer. Miss Pickel was formerly principal of the Douglas public school. Kramer is a clerk in Blum's store at Valdez.
"The Local Field," Douglas Island News, Douglas City, Alaska, June 14, 1911, page 3


    Emerick Bros. and S. Childers have perfected arrangements for the erection of a brick building on South Bartlett Street, between Main and Eighth streets. . . . The old residence now on the lot will be taken down by Mr. Childers and the material worked into a new dwelling on property he owns on the east side. This residence is one of the early Medford landmarks and 20 years ago was occupied by Dr. Pickel.
"Build Garage on Bartlett Street," Medford Mail Tribune weekly, April 18, 1912, page 8


    Berdan & Sons commenced work Tuesday morning moving the old dwelling house south of the Kentner company's store to South Riverside, where it will be repaired and made suitable for residence purposes. Excavating will at once commence on the vacated lots by S. Childers for the erection of a large brick garage, which will be owned by Mr. Childers and the Emerick brothers.
"Local and Personal," Medford Mail Tribune, April 23, 1912, page 2


    Dr. E. B. Pickel--I believe that the greater majority of the best women would not go to the polls, while the more ignorant and those of socialistic tendencies would be apt to.
"What Medford Men Think About Suffrage for Women," Medford Mail Tribune, May 11, 1912, page 8


    MEDFORD, Or., Aug. 9--(Special.)--L. E. Hoover, 58 years old, a pioneer in the Rogue River Valley, died suddenly Thursday in the office of Dr. E. B. Pickel while having a dislocated hip set in place. Mr. Hoover was hurt Monday in an automobile accident near Roseburg when the car went into a ditch and he was painfully, though it was not supposed seriously, injured. When able to travel he was brought to Medford, arriving this afternoon at 3:20. He was taken to Dr. Pickel's office where, after an examination, it was decided to administer an anaesthetic and set the dislocation.
    Mr. Hoover explained he had a weak heart, so ether was used and great care exercised in its application. He had not become entirely unconscious before heart action suddenly ceased, and although electricity and artificial respiration were tried for two hours, the sparks of life could not be revived.
    Mr. Hoover has lived in the valley for 30 years, having been brought to Roseburg at the age of 3. He leaves a wife, two sons, Charles, of Los Angeles; Walter, of Medford, and a daughter, Mrs. J. E. Follie, of Medford.
Oregonian, Portland, August 10, 1912, page 1


    Carter Brandon was elected yell leader for the local high school at a meeting of the student body the middle of the week. Nick Oolman, who has previously held the position, was recalled, as it is charged he was negligent in his duties.
"Local and Personal," Medford Sun, April 10, 1915, page 6


    "I would buy Rogue River orchards today more cheerfully than ever if I had the money," said Dr. E. B. Pickel in the presence of a party of citizens who were discussing the present situation as enlivened by recent frost injury. "Just two things are required to make orcharding a fine success in this valley," continued the doctor, "and they are adequate preparation to protect the orchards from frost and from drought. The former can be done inexpensively, in proportion to the great benefit derived, and the latter, an absolute necessity, will practically double the value of the output. These things provided, and there will be no excuse for our not having the best fruit district in proportion to its area on the Pacific coast today.
    "Had we been provided with irrigation during the last two seasons in which we suffered from drought on account of its absence, we would not now hear any local hard times talk. But we weren't prepared. Had we had ample frost protection this year, as we should have had the foresight to provide, we would not now be talking about our losses.
    "About it all there is one good thing. That is the lesson there is in it. It ought to be worth two or three million dollars. Come to think of it, that's not so bad for one season. But the only way we can turn it to profit is by using the lesson in proper and adequate preparation against drought and frost next year. That is the only way we can come out ahead on last year and this."
Medford Mail Tribune, May 11, 1916, page 3


    Mr. and Mrs. W. H. Kramer, of Valdez, Alaska, are visiting the family of Dr. E. B. Pickel of this city. Mrs. Kramer is a sister of Dr. Pickel and was formerly a member of the teaching staff of the Medford high school, being well known in this city. She was a delegate at large to the national convention of Women's Federated Clubs held in New York last month, and is now on her way home. They will stay three or four days in the city.
"Local and Personal," Medford Mail Tribune, June 7, 1916, page 2


    Former Eugene Teacher Coming--Mrs. Kramer, formerly Miss Adele Pickel, once a Eugene teacher, is expected to arrive in the city this week to visit at the home of her nephew, J. O. Holt, manager of the Eugene Fruit Growers' Association. She is now residing in Alaska, and has been to New York as a delegate to the national women's convention.
"Caught in the Rounds," Morning Register, Eugene, June 8, 1916, page 5





    Dr. E. B. Pickel is the new health officer of Medford, having been appointed to that position last night by Mayor Gates, the council unanimously confirming the appointment. He succeeds Dr. Clara Dunn, who resigned the office some time ago. Dr. Pickel only consented to take the position with the provision that the salary be raised from $25 to $50 a month. The council voted the increase.
"Local and Personal," Medford Mail Tribune, September 6, 1918, page 2


Former Resident Dies--
    Mrs. J .J. Holt, aged 70, passed away at her home in Medford at 3 p.m., February 8. She is survived by her husband, three sons, J. O. Holt of Eugene, W. L. Holt of Portland, Theodore P. Holt of Silver City, Utah, and two daughters, Mrs. Rev. W. B. Moore of Junction City and Vesta Holt of Medford; a brother, Dr. E. B. Pickel of Medford and a sister, Mrs. Wm. Kramer of Long Beach, Washington. Mrs. Holt was for years a member of the Presbyterian Church. The remains have been sent to Eugene, and services will be held from the Gordon and Veatch chapel Tuesday, February 10, at 2 p.m. Rev. Wm. M. Case will be in charge of the services, and interment will be made in Masonic cemetery.
Eugene Guard, February 9, 1920, page 6






    Another army man has gone back to the farm. This is Lieutenant O. V. Morrow, a gallant officer with the Rainbow Division, who saw much service in France. He has purchased Brookhurst, formerly owned by Dr. E. B. Pickel. This ranch consists of 153 acres, 60 of which is in pears, six in apples and the balance in alfalfa and barley.
"Thursday's News," Ashland Weekly Tidings, March 24, 1920, page 3


    A fruit ranch sale of interest recently took place at Medford, when Lieutenant O. V. Morrow purchased Brookhurst, the large place formerly owned by E. B. Pickel, near Medford. The ranch, which consists of 153 acres, 60 acres of which are in pears, 6 acres in apples and the rest in barley and alfalfa, sold for $45,000. The entire acreage is under irrigation and is considered one of the best-producing fruit farms in the Medford district.
"Northwest Fruit Notes from Here and There," Better Fruit, April 1920, page 25

    Among the dozens of Medford people who knew Mr. and Mrs. J. H. Rhoads, former valley residents, whose adopted daughter, Willa, is alleged to have met death in weird cult rites, of which the Rhoads were leaders, is Dr. E. B. Pickel, pioneer physician.
    Dr. Pickel has known Mr. Rhoads for more than 40 years, and remembers her as a little girl. She lived with her parents and a large family on a farm at the foot of Roxy Ann, which is now part of the Westerlund orchard tract. She still has brothers and sisters living in these parts.
    The physician says the Rhoads were a typical American family, no different from any other early-day family here.
    Dr. Pickel was also well acquainted with Mr. Rhoads and describes him as "a pretty good sort of a fellow." Rhoads operated a sawmill in the Sams Valley district, and later moved to Klamath County. He was a hard worker.
    Virgil Strang had a casual acquaintance with Rhoads and remembers him as the employer of a childhood friend--Charles Boussum. Boussum, later a member of the Medford fire department, was employed by Rhoads in his Sams Valley sawmill.

    Following an illness of only three days, Dr. Elijah Barton Pickel, who pioneered medicine in Medford and the Rogue River Valley, died early this morning from a heart ailment at his home, 54 Summit Avenue, at the age of 70 years, 5 months and 14 days.
    Dr. Pickel, well known and beloved by hundreds in southern Oregon, and in medical circles throughout the state, took a prominent part in the city's activities up until the time of his sudden passing. Since coming to Medford in the spring of 1888 he had consistently aided in progressive moves, having conceived and carried out the idea of building Medford's first hospital, the Sacred Heart. [There were several private hospitals before Sacred Heart was built. Sacred Heart was the first purpose-built hospital building in Medford.] He was also a member of the company which erected the Hotel Medford and served for some time as mayor of Medford.
    A city health officer for many years, the children of Medford found in Dr. Pickel one of their staunchest friends, who always had a smile and cheery word for all.
    Dr. Pickel also helped organize the state board of health, being a charter member. He served on the board for 18 years and was twice president.
    Dr. Pickel was born in Sweetwater, Tenn., and received his academic education at Athens, Tenn. He received his degree in medicine at the University of Louisville, in Ky., March 1, 1888, just 44 years ago today.
    In 1894 he took addition work at Illinois College of Physicians and Surgeons of Chicago and received his second degree as doctor of medicine and surgery on April 3 of that year.
    On May 14, 1885, Dr. Pickel was married to Mattie E. Delashmitt in Philadelphia, Tenn.
    By invitation he became a fellow of the American College of Surgeons in 1920. He also was a fellow of the American Medical Association.
    Dr. Pickel was past president of the Oregon State Medical Association, of the Southern Oregon Medical Association, and of the Jackson County Medical Association, having helped organize the two latter societies.
    When coming to Medford in 1888, he was associated with Dr. E. P. Geary, who later moved to Portland, and Dr. Pickel took over his practice. He had remained in practice here constantly, except for brief sojourns to medical centers and to receive his degree at Chicago.
    Dr. Pickel was a prominent orchardist in the valley, formerly owning the 401 Orchard and Brookhurst Orchard.
    Surviving him are his wife, Mattie E. Pickel; one sister, Mrs. W. H. Kramer of Seaside, and one nephew, Carter Brandon of San Francisco, who was reared and educated by Dr. and Mrs. Pickel; also other nieces and nephews.
    Dr. Pickel was a member of Medford Lodge No. 103, A.F. and A.M., Malta Commandery of Ashland, Hillah Shrine Temple, and Reames Chapter No. 66, O.E.S. He was a member of the Baptist Church.
    Funeral services will be conducted from the Perl funeral home Friday afternoon at 2:30 o'clock, with Rev. W. H. Eaton officiating. The remains will be forwarded to the Portland crematory for cremation.
    The remains will lie in state Friday from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m., in order that friends might pay their respects.
Medford Mail Tribune, March 1, 1932, page 1

    Dr. Elijah Barton Pickel, one of the pioneers in surgery and medicine in the Rogue River Valley, died Tuesday morning from a sudden attack of heart failure. He had been ill only three days.
    Mr. Pickel was city health officer for many years and leaves a host of friends. He was connected with the state board of health for years. He came to Medford in 1888, and has been prominent in city and county affairs since that time.
    A backer of all civic projects, and a consistent worker for the health of the children of the valley, Dr. Pickel helped to organize the state health board and served for many years as an outstanding member. He was one of the backers of the building of the Sacred Heart Hospital, and of the Medford Hotel.
    Born in Sweetwater, Tennessee, he went through the lower grades of school in Athens, Tenn. He received his degree in medicine at the University of Louisville in Ky., on March 1, 1888. On May 14, 1885, he was married to Mattie E. Delashmitt in Philadelphia.
    Dr. Pickel was a member of the American Medical Association, the Southern Oregon Medical Association and the Jackson County Medical Association. He was a prominent orchardist here, being a pioneer in the pear industry in the valley, and was at the time owner of the 401 and the Brookhurst orchards.
    He was a member of the Medford Lodge No. 103 of A.F. and A.M., Malta Commandery of Ashland, Hillah Shrine Temple and Reames Chapter No. 66, O.E.S. He was a member of the Baptist Church.
    He is survived by his wife, Mattie E. Pickel, one sister, Mrs. W. H. Kramer of Seaside, and one nephew, Carter Brandon of San Francisco, who was reared and educated by the Pickels.
    Funeral services will be held at the Perl Funeral Home tomorrow afternoon at 2:30, and the body will be taken to Portland for cremation.
Central Point American, March 3, 1932, page 1


    Among the many letters received by Medford relatives and friends of the late Dr. E. B. Pickel is one received from Dr. Frederick Stricker, state health officer, which expresses the sentiment of all. The letter received by Dr. L. D. Inskeep, local health officer, reads in part:
    "I had known him for the last 25 years and I feel as though I had lost a member of my own family.
    "I know the people of Medford realize what he has done for that community and that they owe him a great deal."
Medford Mail Tribune, March 6, 1932, page 4


    The Jackson County Medical Society met at the home of Dr. A. F. Kresse for regular session Wednesday and the paper for the evening was given by Dr. B. C. Wilson, who dealt with injuries and general medical cases.
    The following resolution was passed by the society as an expression of the great loss realized in the death of Dr. E. B. Pickel.
    "Whereas a charter member, first president and an organizer of the Jackson County Medical Society has died since our last meeting, whose memory is deserving of our honor and respect, and,
    "Whereas, in this hour of bereavement, the Jackson County Medical Society desires to express its sorrow for the death of Dr. E. B. Pickel, we pay tribute to his memory and cherish a deep regard for his many virtues, and,
    "Whereas, he spent the best of his citizenship and manhood in ministering professionally to the ills and distress of the human body, adding luster to our noble profession; therefore be it resolved that the Jackson County Medical Society take this method of commending his life work and effort, to the emulation of those left behind, appreciating the goodness of his virtues as our example,
    "Resolved that a copy of this resolution be placed on our records and that a copy be sent to the widow with our kindest sympathy and good will.
Medford Mail Tribune, March 20, 1932, page 9


    Resolution, recently unanimously adopted by the council of the Oregon State Medical Society, is added to the long list written in memory of Dr. E. Barton Pickel, beloved physician of this city. The resolution reads:
    "We, your committee on necrology, think it is fitting that some special record should be made by the council of the death of E. Barton Pickel, our beloved associate, who will meet with us no more, his death having occurred March 1, 1932.
    "Few medical men in the state have been so long, so generally and so favorably known as Dr. Pickel. We shall greatly miss him from the meetings of this council and of the state society. He has been a familiar figure in these meetings for so many years.
    "He was president of the Oregon State Medical Society in 1907, but had been a regular attendant long before that. For several years he was a member of the state board
of health, and has held many positions of honor in our profession.
    "His kindly and genial manner, as well as his wise counsels and high professional attainments, have always made him a welcome guest at any medical assembly.
    "It requires unusual and sterling qualities to enable a man, living remote from any great medical center, to acquire and hold so strong a position in the whole profession of the state as did E. Barton Pickel.
    "We extend to the bereaved family the heartfelt sympathy of this body and recommend that this special resolution be made a part of the minutes of this council, and that copy of the same be sent to the family of our departed member and friend.
Medford Mail Tribune, April 25, 1932, page 2

Last revised September 5, 2024