George Edward Cole

George Edward Cole (December 23, 1826 – December 3, 1906) was an American politician. He is remembered as the 6th governor and 5th delegate from the Territory of Washington.

Biography

Early years George Edward Cole was born December 23, 1826, in Trenton, Oneida County, New York. Cole attended the public schools and Hobart Hall Institute. He was employed as clerk in a country store.

After living in the Midwestern state of Illinois, Cole departed for California during the gold rush year of 1849. From there he moved to the Pacific Northwest, arriving in the Oregon Territory in 1850.

Oregon years

Cole soon became involved in the politics of the Oregon Territory, serving as a member of the Oregon House of Representatives in the Oregon Territorial Legislature during the biannual session running from 1852 to 1853. Cole served for one term only, not being a candidate for renomination in 1864.

Cole moved to Spokane, Washington, in 1889, was elected county treasurer of Spokane County, serving two terms in that position.

He also maintained extensive interests in mining, manufacturing, and farming.

Death and legacy

George E. Cole died in Portland, Oregon, December 3, 1906. His body was interred in Lone Fir Cemetery in the city of his death.

Footnotes