Francis (Francois) Feller (1839-1932) was born on July 28, 1839, in Haute Kontz, France. In 1855, he immigrated to the United States with his mother, stepfather, and sister, settling on a farm near Galena, Illinois. In 1857, he traveled to Oregon’s Willamette Valley, taking a route that led him across the Isthmus of Panama, up the Pacific Coast to the Columbia River, and by riverboat from Portland to Butteville on the Willamette River. There he found work as a farmhand and on riverboats.

In 1864, Francis purchased land near Butteville, Oregon, and on March 12, 1865, married Rheuamah Whitney. Together, they had ten children before Rheuamah’s death in 1892. He later married Ida Garrett on January 8, 1895, with whom he had two more children. On his 860-acre farm in French Prairie, Francis established one of the valley’s most profitable and verdant farms, complete with a large home. Specializing in wheat and hops, he became an influential figure in the local agricultural community. He co-founded the Farmers’ Fire Insurance Company and the Hop Growers’ Fire Insurance Company.

After retiring in 1905, Francis leased his farm and relocated to Woodburn. In 1932, his life ended tragically at the age of 92, when his car was struck by a train in Woodburn.

This collection contains photos, correspondence, and genealogical research on the Francis Feller family from the Butteville area of Marion County, Oregon.

Click here to access collection list: 2024.001 Francis Feller Family Collection

Preferred Citation:

Francis Feller Family Collection, Willamette Heritage Center, 2024.001

Restrictions on Use:

Francis Feller Family Collection is the physical property of the Willamette Heritage Center. Please contact the Willamette Heritage Center for information regarding specific use of this collection.

Processing Information:

Collection researched by Betty Ellison and processed by Kaylyn F. Mabey.