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Oral history interview with Scott Teitsworth

This oral history interview with Scott Teitsworth was conducted by Jim Strassmaier from November 9, 2018, to January 3, 2019. The interview was conducted as part of the Oregon Labor Oral History Program, which collects oral histories of individuals who have advocated for working people of Oregon, and part of a series of interviews with firefighters. The interview was conducted in four sessions.

In the first interview session, conducted on November 9, 2018, Teitsworth speaks at length about his family background, and talks about his early life in New Jersey. He discusses his relationship with his family, his political beliefs, and his education. He describes a trip to Europe in 1969; talks about his experiences with LSD and other drugs; and shares his thoughts on citizenship.

In the second interview session, conducted on November 15, 2018, Teitsworth speaks further about his family background and about his relationship with his family. He talks about his experience at Stanford University in 1970. He speaks again about his experiences with LSD and other drugs, and speaks at length about how those experiences influenced his spiritual and political beliefs, particularly regarding the Vietnam War and Indian philosophy. He also talks about his marriage to Deborah Buchanan. He speaks about his association with Guru Nitya Chaitanya Yati and about his work on the guru's books. He also talks about the life of Narayana Guru, and speaks at length about his Hinduism and about the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita.

In the third interview session, conducted on November 22, 2018, Teitsworth continues to discuss his and Deborah Buchanan's association with Guru Nitya Chaitanya Yati. He then speaks about his career as a firefighter with the Portland Fire Bureau and with Tualatin Valley Fire and Rescue. He talks about his experience of being fired from the Portland Fire Bureau, describes some of the rescues he was involved in, and talks about the dangers of the job. He discusses life in a firehouse, compares the medical services provided by firefighters to those of private ambulance companies, and talks about dealing with people in distress. He speaks about the firefighters union, about firefighter pay and benefits, and about working with his fellow firefighters. He talks about his love of music and playing piano.

In the fourth and final interview session, conducted on January 3, 2019, Teitsworth describes the fire that led him to leave firefighting. He also talks about women joining the firefighting force. He talks about the death of Guru Nitya Chaitanya Yati and about his transition from a student of Indian philosophy to a teacher. He also shares his thoughts about the September 11, 2001, attacks and aftermath. He speaks at length about his work on his books about the Bhagavad Gita, about his writings on the labors of Hercules, and about teaching classes on the Bhagavad Gita. He describes the effect accusations of child abuse had on his life, and reads from his life horoscope and discusses its accuracy. He closes the interview by talking about his inspiration for a recent talk, and about his children, their families, and their careers.

Teitsworth, Scott

Oral history interview with Jamie G. Partridge

This oral history interview with Jamie G. Partridge was conducted by Stephanie Vallance in thirty sessions from February 7, 2020, to April 23, 2021. The interview was conducted as part of the Oregon Labor Oral History Program, which collects oral histories of individuals who have advocated for working people of Oregon, including public figures, union members, and workers. Sessions 1 through 4 were conducted at Partridge's home in Portland, Oregon. The remaining sessions were conducted using Zoom video conferencing software due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

In sessions 1 through 5, Partridge discusses his early life and the development of his political beliefs during the 1960s and 1970s, including his experiences during the 1967 "Summer of Love" in San Francisco, California, his involvement with the Black Panthers, and his friendship with Portland police officer Tom Potter.

In sessions 6 through 8, Partridge discusses his involvement in the Freedom Socialist Party, the co-parenting arrangement he entered with a former student, and his involvement with the Central American Solidarity Committee in the 1980s. He also begins to discuss campaigning for Jesse Jackson.

In sessions 9 through 15, Partridge discusses his involvement in the Rainbow Coalition, campaigning for Jesse Jackson, and his involvement in Jobs with Justice. He also talks about his career as a letter carrier for the U.S. Postal Service.

In sessions 16 though 19, Partridge discusses his career as a letter carrier for the U.S. Postal Service and his involvement with the postal workers union.

In sessions 20 through 24, Partridge discusses his involvement in Jobs with Justice. He talks about the 2006 Great American Boycott, and about his radio show on the Portland station KBOO.

In sessions 25 through 30, Partridge talks about his involvement in the postal workers union after his retirement in 2011, discusses his involvement with the Democratic Socialists of America, and reflects on the oral history experience.

Partridge, Jamie G. (James Gilbert), 1949-

Oral history interview with Margaret Butler

This oral history interview with Margaret Butler was conducted by Madeline Bisgyer at Butler's home from June 4 to August 17, 2018. The interview was conducted as part of the Oregon Labor Oral History Program, which collects oral histories of individuals who have advocated for working people of Oregon, including public figures, union members, and workers. The interview was conducted in eight sessions.

In the first interview session, conducted on June 4, 2018, Butler discusses her family background and early life in Portland, Oregon, including her mother as a role model, her relationship with her twin sister, Gillian, and her family's political views. She talks about her experiences at Lewis & Clark College, including life in the dorms and studying history. She speaks about how she got involved in labor organizing while working at a library, and talks about the people she worked with. She also describes studying abroad in Kenya and how her experiences there affected her political beliefs. She discusses her involvement in other organizations, including a tenants union, and talks about working for Pacific Northwest Bell after college. She looks at photographs and talks about them.

In the second interview session, conducted on June 11, 2018, Butler continues to discuss working as a telephone operator, including her job duties, people she worked with, and the break-up of the Pacific Bell telephone company. She discusses her involvement with the Communications Workers of America Local 7901, participating in a strike in 1983, and working with CWA National Organizing Director Larry Cohen. She speaks at length about her involvement with the CWA, including her election as vice president of the union in 1990. She also talks about her work to form the Portland coalition of Jobs with Justice, and about her relationship with Rich Peppers.

In the third interview session, conducted on June 26, 2018, Butler continues to discuss her involvement with the CWA and her service as vice president of the union. She speaks further about her work to form the Portland coalition of Jobs with Justice, and describes several union organizing campaigns she worked on through JwJ during the 1990s, including a living wage campaign and supporting striking United Food and Commercial Workers members. She talks about her marriage to Rich Peppers, and about balancing home life and their careers.

In the fourth interview session, conducted on July 5, 2018, Butler continues to discuss her work with Jobs with Justice and talks about her service as executive director. She looks at photographs of her union organizing activities and talks about them. She describes several actions of JwJ during the 1990s, including supporting striking Kaiser employees, lobbying for corporate tax reforms, and a living wage campaign. She talks about the work of the Portland Workers Rights Board, particularly the campaign to organize workers at Powell's Books. She reflects on JwJ's accomplishments during her time as executive director, and talks about conflicts with other organizations.

In the fifth interview session, conducted on July 10, 2018, Butler looks at and talks about photographs from several JwJ actions, including at Powell's Books, at the Parry Center, and at Providence hospital. She discusses the work of JwJ after the 2008 financial crisis, talks about photographs of those activities, and discusses JwJ's work on immigrant rights. She describes their fundraising Grinch parties, which are now called Scrooge parties, talks about conflicts between labor organizations, and shares her reasons for retiring in 2013. She talks about conflicts within JwJ after she left, and shares her thoughts about the future of the labor movement.

In the sixth interview session, conducted on July 19, 2018, Butler speaks further about her retirement from JwJ, and speaks at length about her work as a contractor with the American Association of University Professors. She talks about the history and mission of the AAUP, about the people she worked with, and about AAUP by-laws and policies. She also talks about organizing AAUP chapters, particularly at Portland State University. She speaks about becoming AAUP's executive director, and shares her reasons for leaving the AAUP.

In the seventh interview session, conducted on July 31, 2018, Butler discusses her retirement from the AAUP. She then talks about her activities since leaving the AAUP and about her plans for the future. She talks about her anti-racism work, reflects on her accomplishments during her career in labor organizing, and talks about the challenges she faced in her work. She also describes her idea of an "ideal" union, and talks about recent labor organizing efforts in Oregon.

In the eighth and final interview session, conducted on August 17, 2018, Rich Peppers, Jamie Partridge, and Lorene Scheer participated along with Butler. They each talk about their labor organizing backgrounds. They have a conversation about their work together as labor organizers with Jobs with Justice, describe several JwJ actions, and talk about lobbying the Oregon Legislature. They close the discussion by talking about JwJ's work related to civil rights, and about the future of the labor movement.

Butler, Margaret (labor leader)

Oral history interview with Margaret B. Krausse

This oral history interview with Margaret B. Krausse was conducted by Gail H. Evans on July 19, 1978, as part of the Portland Neighborhood History Project. The project was conducted by Portland Parks and Recreation in the late 1970s, and consisted of interviews with people who moved to or lived in the Portland metropolitan area from the early to mid-1900s.

In this interview, Krausse discusses her family background, particularly her great-grandfather Amos N. King, an emigrant to Oregon, whose land claim included the area that later became the King's Hill Historic District of Portland. She speaks about her early life in the King's Hill area in the Goose Hollow neighborhood, and later in the Nob Hill neighborhood of Portland. She describes the houses she and her relatives lived in, talks about the history of the neighborhoods, and discusses people who lived in the area. She also talks about her recreational activities, and about riding the streetcar in the early 20th century.

Krausse, Margaret B. (Margaret Bronaugh), 1896-1987

Oral history interview with Dorothea M. Lensch

This oral history interview with Dorothea M. Lensch was conducted by Mischa Creditor and Carol Spellman in two sessions on October 20, 1977, and March 10, 1978, as part of the Portland Neighborhood History Project. The project was conducted by Portland Parks and Recreation in the late 1970s, and consisted of interviews with people who moved to or lived in the Portland metropolitan area from the early to mid-1900s. Charmaine Allen was also present for part of the first session.

In the first interview session, conducted by Mischa Creditor on October 20, 1977, Lensch discusses her early life in Portland and her education at Mills College in Oakland, California; at the University of Oregon in Eugene; and at Wellesley College in Wellesley, Massachusetts. She speaks about her work as director of recreation for the Portland Parks Bureau from 1936 to 1972. She shares her reasons for returning to Portland after living and teaching on the East Coast for a decade, talks about lobbying for the bureau's plans to expand community recreational programs, and discusses her work setting up community centers in war housing projects during World War II. She talks about developing and funding youth sports programs, including programs for children with disabilities; speaks at length about the people she worked with in the Parks Bureau, particularly Paul Keyser; and discusses working with Portland city government and other city departments. She describes the circuses that the bureau once produced. She speaks about organizing and funding the bureau's youth camp programs, particularly the camp for children with disabilities.

In the second interview session, conducted by Carol Spellman on March 10, 1978, Lensch speaks further about working with Paul Keyser, describes his parks philosophy, and talks about his work planning Peninsula Park, Washington Park and the Rhododendron Garden. She discusses fundraising to purchase land for park projects, and revisits the topic of her work setting up community centers in war housing projects during World War II. She talks about cultivating leaders through the Parks Bureau public programs, about bringing electricity to the parks, and about the campaign for a parks levy on the Portland city ballot at the time of the interview. She speaks further about the development of programs for children with disabilities. She shares her experiences as a woman in municipal government; looks at documents and photographs and talks about them; and discusses the development of Parks Bureau programs and youth centers for teenagers. She closes the interview by talking about race relations in Portland during the 1950s and 1960s, and their effect on public park programs in Portland.

Lensch, Dorothea M. (Dorothea Marie), 1907-2000

Oral history interview with Werner Raz

This oral history interview with Werner Raz was conducted by Christine Ermenc on April 20, 1976, as part of the Portland Neighborhood History Project. The project was conducted by Portland Parks and Recreation in the late 1970s, and consisted of interviews with people who moved to or lived in the Portland metropolitan area from the early to mid-1900s. A transcript of the interview is available.

In this interview, Raz discusses his family background in Switzerland and his early life on a dairy farm in Hillsdale, Oregon. He talks about daily chores on the farm, about his education, and about traveling by car and train in the early 20th century. He shares his memories of the 1933 Tillamook Burn and of the Depression. He closes the interview by discussing how the Hillsdale and Multnomah neighborhoods of Portland have changed during his lifetime.

Raz, Werner, 1908-1984

Oral history interview with Isaka Shamsud-Din

This oral history interview with Isaka Shamsud-Din was conducted by Milo Reed and P.C. Peri from December 7, 2018, to January 25, 2019. Isaka Shamsud-Din was nominated by Oregonians to be interviewed as part of a program by the Oregon Historical Society Research Library to enhance and expand the range of voices in the library's collections. Interviewees are selected from the pool of nominees by a staff committee appointed by the historical society's executive director. The interview was conducted in three sessions.

In the first interview session, conducted on December 7, 2018, Shamsud-Din discusses his family background and early life on a farm in Atlanta, Texas. He talks about his life in Vanport, Oregon, from 1947 until the 1948 flood that destroyed Vanport. He shares his experiences studying art at the University of Kansas and at the Museum Art School in Portland, Oregon, while a teenager; and talks about the reasons he considered dropping out of high school, including racism he experienced and the focus of public school curriculum on white culture and history. He also shares his reasons for changing his name to Isaka Shamsud-Din. He talks about hitchhiking to San Francisco, California, after high school.

In the second interview session, conducted on January 18, 2019, Shamsud-Din discusses studying art at Portland State University and painting his first murals. He speaks at length about his involvement with the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee in Arkansas during the civil rights movement. He talks about living in San Francisco from 1966 to 1967 and about his involvement with the Black arts community there; about living in Anchorage, Alaska; and about returning to Portland to teach at PSU. He discusses serving as artist-in-residence at several educational institutions during the 1970s, including Reed College; talks about his work with the Albina Mural Project; and shares his experiences of not being paid adequately for his work. He talks about the status of the Black community in Portland.

In the third and final interview session, conducted on January 25, 2019, Shamsud-Din discusses his role in starting Black studies courses at San Francisco State University and at PSU, and shares his thoughts on the value of such programs. He talks about his involvement with the Nation of Islam, about his reasons for leaving the organization in 1976, and about his identity as a Black Muslim. He also speaks further about his reasons for changing his name. He discusses his painting process and his work as an editorial cartoonist, and talks about vandalism of some of his murals in Portland. He closes the interview by talking about the lives of his siblings, about the patronage of Arlene Schnitzer and Harold Schnitzer for his art, and about the many jobs he worked over his life.

Shamsud-Din, Isaka, 1940-

Karen Beck Skold dissertation papers and interviews

  • Mss 1803
  • Collection
  • 1941-1980

This collection consists of papers and interviews gathered by Karen Beck Skold during research for her 1981 Ph.D. dissertation in sociology at the University of Oregon, entitled "Women Workers and Child Care During World War II: A Case Study of the Portland, Oregon Shipyards."

Digitized materials available online in OHS Digital Collections consist of 26 audio recordings of interviews that Skold conducted with people, predominantly women, who worked at shipyards and in child care in the Portland, Oregon, area during World War II. Most of the people Skold interviewed worked at the Kaiser shipyards, including the Oregon Shipbuilding Corporation yard. A few were employed at Albina Engine Machine Works and Commercial Iron Works; one interviewee worked at the Tacoma-Seattle Shipbuilding Corporation in Washington. The interviewees were primarily welders, ship fitters, and drivers, but also include women who worked as teachers and nurses at child care centers in the shipyards or in war housing projects. Transcripts are available for many interviews, but not all transcripts are complete; only completed transcripts are available online. Also digitized and available online is a recording of a 1980 presentation that Skold delivered in Alameda County, California, titled "The Politics of Child Care during World War II: The Case of the Kaiser Child Service Centers."

Undigitized materials available for use at the Oregon Historical Society Research Library include photocopied reports and articles, mostly regarding children's services in Portland, as well as racism and sex segregation in the shipyards; newspaper clippings regarding Skold's research, 1975-1976; correspondence with sources, 1975-1976; biographical information about women who worked in shipyard child care centers, 1975; minutes of the Women's Advisory Committee, 1943; and a 1941 union agreement between the American Federation of Labor and the Pacific Shipbuilders.

Skold, Karen Beck

Oral history interview with Annette M. Bartholomae

  • SR 1055
  • Collection
  • 1992-08-27 - 1992-09-03

This oral history interview with Annette M. Bartholomae was conducted by Sieglinde Smith from August 27 to September 3, 1992. The interview was conducted in two sessions.

In the first interview session, conducted on August 27, 1992, Bartholomae discusses her family background and talks about her adoptive family. She describes her early life in Portland, Oregon, including her early education and recreational activities. She also talks about her early interest in reading and libraries. She speaks about her experience at Reed College. She then talks about studying library science at Columbia University in New York. She also talks about working as a children's librarian at the Arleta library branch in Portland.

In the second interview session, conducted on September 3, 1992, Bartholomae discusses working as head librarian at the library in Pocatello, Idaho, and describes her life there. She then talks about working as a librarian for the U.S. Army's Camp White in Medford, Oregon, during World War II. She also talks about meeting her future husband, George Bartholomae, while working at the army camp, and discusses his experiences during World War I and II. She then discusses working as social services librarian at Portland State University, including taking classes at the university. She discusses working at the Oregon Historical Society Research Library at the end of her professional career. She also talks about working as a librarian at the Multnomah County Public Library. She describes her master's thesis for PSU, talks about her interest in Civil War history, and discusses the origins of her name. She closes the interview by talking about her education at library school.

Bartholomae, Annette M. (Annette Martha), 1908-1997

Oral history interview with Clyde Rice

  • SR 1054
  • Collection
  • 1985-01-22 - 1985-03-13

This oral history interview with Clyde Rice was conducted by Rick Harmon at Rice's home in Clackamas, Oregon, from January 22 to March 13, 1985. The interview was conducted in seven sessions. The audio on tapes 3, 4, 6, and 13 is affected by speed issues.

In the first interview session, conducted on January 22, 1985, Rice discusses his family background, particularly his father's flavor extract business. He talks about his early life in Portland and Salem, including his family's Christian Science faith, his social life, and his relationship with his family.

In the second interview session, conducted on January 29, 1985, Rice continues discussing his early life in Portland and Salem, including his family's Christian Science faith. He tells several anecdotes about his early school life; describes racism he observed; and shares his memories of World War I.

In the third interview session, conducted on February 7, 1985, Rice discusses his involvement with the Portland Art Museum School (now known as the Pacific Northwest College of Art), including the professors and curators. He talks about the artistic community in Portland and discusses his own art. He revisits the topic of racism that he observed and Portland politics in the early 20th century.

In the fourth interview session, conducted on February 14, 1985, Rice continues discussing Portland politics in the early 20th century. He then talks about homesteading in Clackamas County during the 1930s and describes clearing the land, hunting, and farming. He discusses returning to Portland a few years later and working for his father's flavor extract business. He talks about his marriage to Marguerite Evelyn "Nordi" Nordstrom, and about meeting his second wife, Virginia Lee Broms.

In the fifth interview session, conducted on February 21, 1985, Rice describes building a rammed earth house in the Mt. Scott neighborhood of Portland during the late 1930s. He speaks at length about his affair with Virginia Lee Broms. He also revisits the topic of working for his father's flavor extract business. He talks about spending time in Alaska before his divorce from Nordi Rice, his marriage to Virginia Lee Broms, and how both events affected his son.

In the seventh and final interview session, conducted on March 13, 1985, Rice continues discussing his development as an author. He describes the years-long process of writing and publishing his first novel, "A Heaven in the Eye." He also talks about plans to publish his other writings.

Rice, Clyde, 1903-1998

Oral history interview with Dorothy H. Thornton

  • SR 1076
  • Collection
  • 1991-09-10 - 1991-12-13

This oral history interview with Dorothy H. Thornton was conducted by Nancy Hawver from September 10 to December 13, 1991, as part of the Oregon Historical Society Research Library's oral history program. The interview was conducted in four sessions.

In the first interview session, conducted on September 10, 1991, Thornton discusses her family background and early life in Tillamook, Oregon, including her parents' involvement with the Tillamook Creamery Association. She talks about her early education, her recreational activities, and her early interest in art. She discusses a trip she took to Europe in 1935. She talks about her experiences in high school and at the University of Oregon. She also revisits the topics of the Tillamook Creamery Association and her early life in Tillamook. She discusses her marriage to Robert Y. Thornton and talks about his legal and political career.

In the second interview session, conducted on October 17, 1991, Thornton discusses her experience during World War II and talks about working in the blimp factory in Tillamook. She also talks about Robert Y. Thornton's service in the U.S. Army during the war. She discusses Robert Y. Thornton's study of Japanese and her own study of art. She then discusses living in Tillamook at the end of the war, talks about her involvement in the Tillamook Library Board, and about raising her son, Thomas Wells Thornton.

In the third interview session, conducted on November 22, 1991, Thornton discusses living in Salem after Robert Y. Thornton was elected to the Oregon State Legislature in 1950 and talks about her experiences as a wife of a politician, her involvement with the Bush House Auxiliary, and her interest in art and photography. She also talks about cases Robert Y. Thornton worked on as state attorney general.

In the fourth and final interview session, conducted on December 13, 1991, Thornton continues to discuss living in Salem, including her involvement in early childhood education. She also continues to discuss Robert Y. Thornton's career as state attorney general. She talks about her involvement in the Arts in Oregon Council and other arts organizations; describes her cornea transplant surgery; and discusses taking art classes. She talks about a trip she took to Japan in the late 1950s, about attending attorneys general conventions, and about the establishment of the Grove of the States in 1967. She closes the interview by discussing her involvement with the Portland Art Museum and other arts organizations.

Thornton, Dorothy H. (Dorothy Haberlach), 1913-2005

Oral history interview with Randall Dunn

This oral history interview with Randall Dunn was conducted by Greta Smith Wisnewski at the Bankruptcy Court building in Portland, Oregon, in seven sessions from September 18, 2018, to February 8, 2019. At the time of the interview, Wisnewski's name was Greta K. Smith.

In the first interview session, conducted on September 17, 2018, Dunn discusses his family background and early life in Crown Point, Indiana, including Indiana politics and his education, particularly the experience of taking high school classes from his mother. He also talks about playing clarinet and his interest in music. He then discusses his experience at Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois, including the house he lived in, his roommates, and continuing to play music.

In the second interview session, conducted on October 22, 2018, Dunn continues discussing his family background and his experience at Northwestern University, including working in an oil refinery during the summers. He then talks about his experience at Stanford Law School, including his impressions of the West Coast, some of his professors, and working on the law review. He also talks about his later work as editor-in-chief of the Oregon Debtor-Creditor Newsletter. He discusses playing clarinet in the Stanford orchestra, where he met his wife, Laurie.

In the third interview session, conducted on November 19, 2018, Dunn continues discussing his experience at Stanford Law School, including working as a law clerk in Indiana during the summers. He also continues discussing his relationship with, and later marriage to, Laurie. He then talks about practicing antitrust law at Berman and Giauque in Salt Lake City, Utah, and then bankruptcy law at Copeland, Landye, Bennet, and Wolf in Portland, Oregon. He describes the workplace culture in both places and some of the cases he worked on. He talks about playing clarinet in the Salem Symphony and the Portland Opera orchestra.

In the fourth interview session, conducted on December 28, 2018, Dunn continues to discuss practicing bankruptcy law at Copeland, Landye, Bennet, and Wolf in Portland, and describes some of the cases he worked on. He then talks about Oregon bankruptcy law, the procedures of the Oregon bankruptcy court, and the bankruptcy court staff, including judges and law clerks. He also discusses working as editor of the Oregon Debtor-Creditor Newsletter and other bankruptcy court-related publications. He further discusses playing clarinet in the Portland Opera orchestra.

In the fifth interview session, conducted on January 11, 2019, Dunn discusses the lawyer job market in Portland. He then continues talking about bankruptcy law, particularly the changes to the law made in 2005. He talks about his service as a bankruptcy judge beginning in 1998, including the application process, his fellow judges, and learning how to be a judge. He also talks about decorating his office at the bankruptcy courthouse in Portland, about his law clerks, and about scheduling cases.

In the sixth interview session, conducted on January 25, 2019, Dunn continues discussing his service as a bankruptcy judge beginning in 1998, including some of the cases he heard and his judicial philosophy. He also talks about his service on the Bankruptcy Appellate Panel beginning in 2006, including his fellow panelists and some of the cases he heard.

In the seventh and final interiew session, conducted on February 8, 2019, Dunn continues discussing his service on the Bankruptcy Appellate Panel beginning in 2006, including some of the cases he heard. He also talks about his involvement with the National Conference of Bankruptcy Judges and awards he received. He discusses the importance of bankruptcy laws, reflects on his accomplishments, and talks about his retirement activities. He closes the interview by discussing the science program for the Ninth Circuit Executive Committee.

Dunn, Randall L. (Randall Lawson), 1950-

Oral history interview with Thomas M. Coffin

This oral history interview with Thomas M. Coffin was conducted by Makaela Kroin in Coffin's chambers at the Mark O. Hatfield Courthouse in Portland, Oregon, from May 2, 2018, to November 1, 2019, as part of the United States District Court of Oregon Oral History Project. The interview was conducted in six sessions.

In the first interview session, conducted on May 2, 2018, Coffin discusses his family background at length, beginning in the year 1066. He talks about his early life in St. Louis, Missouri, including his education, his childhood role models, and playing sports.

In the second interview session, conducted on September 4, 2018, Coffin discusses his college experiences at a Catholic seminary, at St. Benedict College in Atchinson, Kansas, and at Harvard Law School. He shares his reasons for choosing to attend seminary, and speaks further about his early life. He shares how his childhood and college experiences shaped his world outlook. He speaks at length about a college roommate who was later murdered as a result of working as an informant for the FBI; shares anecdotes about serving in the Reserve Officer Training Corps during the Vietnam War; and discusses his political views. He talks about his experiences as a volunteer defense attorney while a student at Harvard.

In the third interview session, conducted on October 5, 2018, Coffin discusses working as a federal prosecutor for the U.S. attorney's office in San Diego, California, from 1971 to 1980. He speaks at length about cases he tried, particularly drug-related cases. He discusses how he grew as a trial lawyer and shares his prosecutorial philosophy. He also shares his thoughts about the U.S. government's treatment of immigrants and refugees at the U.S.-Mexico border at the time of the interview. He then talks about his marriage to Penelope Teaff, and shares a story about an encounter with the Hells Angels.

In the fourth interview session, conducted on April 17, 2019, Coffin shares his reasons for moving to the Pacific Northwest and discusses his work as a federal prosecutor at the U.S. attorney's office in Eugene, Oregon, from 1980 to 1992. He describes how the Eugene office grew, talks about his work on methamphetamine-related cases, and discusses his relationship with the district attorney's office. He talks about how he continued to develop as a prosecutor during his time at the Eugene U.S. attorney's office, and speaks further about his prosecutorial philosophy. He talks about raising a family in Eugene. He then talks about his service as a magistrate judge for the U.S. District Court of Oregon. He discusses some of the cases he handled, particularly a case involving disability discrimination in golf. He describes the District Court's use of pre-trial conferences, and talks about working on settlements.

In the fifth interview session, conducted on May 9, 2019, Coffin continues to discuss his service as a magistrate judge. He talks about the importance of integrity as a judge, shares his concerns regarding the political climate at the time of the interview, and discusses how his work as a prosecutor prepared him for the role of judge. He speaks further about the case regarding disability discrimination in golf, discusses his process for writing opinions, and shares his reasons for occasionally delivering oral opinions. He also tells a story about a memorable case he prosecuted in San Diego. He speaks further about his reasons for moving to the Pacific Northwest in 1980.

In the sixth and final interview session, conducted on November 1, 2019, Coffin continues to discuss his service as a magistrate judge, talks about cases he heard, and shares his judicial philosophy. He speaks further about his concerns regarding the U.S. government's treatment of refugees and immigrants at the U.S.-Mexico border at the time of the interview. He shares personal anecdotes, talks further about mediating settlements, and discusses his recreational activities. He shares his opinion of President Donald J. Trump and Republican politics at the time of the interview.

Coffin, Thomas M. (Thomas Michael), 1945-

Oral history interview with Malcolm Marsh

This oral history interview with Malcolm Marsh was conducted by Clark Hansen from January 27 to May 10, 2005, as part of the United States District Court Oral History Project. The interview was conducted in three sessions, all held in Marsh's chambers at the U.S. District Courthouse in Portland, Oregon. Part of the third session was recorded simultaneously on audiocassette and videocassette.

In the first interview session, conducted on January 27, 2005, Marsh speaks at length about his family background. He talks about his early life in McMinnville, Oregon, including his education, his family's experiences during the Depression, and his memories of life during World War II. He also briefly talks about his service in the U.S. Army in Japan just after the end of the war. He then discusses his experience studying law at the University of Oregon, including some of his classes and professors. He talks about his marriage to Shari Long. He speaks about practicing law in Salem with his law partner, Ned Clark, and describes how he came to specialize in product liability cases. He discusses his Christian faith, and also talks about how it affects his choices during sentencing. He talks about his appointment to the U.S. District Court of Oregon in 1987. He speaks at length about political polarization in the U.S., and shares his thoughts about how to address it. He talks about his professional ethics, discusses his reasons for taking senior status in 1998, and shares stories about arguing cases before Judge Gus Solomon.

In the second interview session, conducted on January 28, 2005, Marsh discusses serving as a judge on the U.S. District Court of Oregon. He talks about adjusting to the workload of a judge, discusses members of his staff and his fellow judges, and describes the role of magistrate judges. He shares his thoughts about the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals; talks about his process for preparing for trial; and speaks at length about sentencing guidelines. He discusses some of the cases he presided over, particularly cases regarding salmon fisheries and the Rajneeshees. He talks about his law clerks; shares his opinion on personality traits that make a good judge; and discusses the increase in case settlements, and decrease in jury trials.

In the third and final interview session, conducted on May 10, 2005, Marsh discusses efforts to streamline the U.S. District Court of Oregon, including the use of magistrate judges. He speaks about working with U.S. Attorney Chuck Turner; talks about the increase in cases relating to drugs; and revisits the topic of sentencing guidelines. He shares how his thoughts on immigration laws changed over his career; shares his opinion regarding concerns about judicial activism; and talks about when judges should retire. He also revisits the topic of his reasons for taking senior status. He talks about how his judicial philosophy changed and reflects on his career. He debates the merits of both restorative and retributive justice. He speaks about the role of law clerks, about judges' salaries, and about his role in the construction of the Mark O. Hatfield United States District Courthouse in Portland. He discusses working with Mark Hatfield and John Dellenback. He speaks about his marriage to Shari Long, and about balancing his Christian faith and his role as a judge. He closes the interview by talking about the importance of family.

Marsh, Malcolm

Oral history interview with Hugh Biggs

This oral history interview with Hugh Biggs was conducted by Clarence Wicks in the offices of Stoel, Rives, Boley, Jones & Grey in Portland, Oregon, from June 29 to July 2, 1988. The interview was conducted in three sessions, and a transcript is available.

In the first interview session, conducted on June 29, 1988, Biggs discusses his family background and early life in Ontario, Oregon, including his siblings and their careers, and his recreational activities. He briefly talks about his mother and his father, Dalton Biggs, who was a Circuit Court judge from 1910 to 1928. He speaks at length about working on his family's ranch in Bridal Veil, Oregon. He briefly talks about studying at the University of Oregon, including his years in law school and serving as dean of men.

In the second interview session, conducted on June 30, 1988, Biggs speaks further about his family background, including his grandfather, grandmother, and aunt. He continues to discuss serving as dean of men at the University of Oregon. He also briefly talks about his experience as a law student, his bar exam, and his law practice in Ontario. He speaks about his marriage to Elra Ware, and discusses their children and their careers. He talks about his experience as a district attorney in Malheur County and as an assistant U.S. attorney in Portland, Oregon. He talks about practicing law with the Maguire, Shields, and Morrison law firm, including cases they worked on. He shares his experiences during the Depression and World War II. He discusses clients he worked with, paticularly the Northern Pacific Railroad.

In the third interview session, conducted on July 2, 1988, Biggs speaks about insurance cases and medical malpractice cases he handled. He speaks about practicing law in Portland, particularly discussing Stoel, Rives, Boley, Jones & Grey and its history, and about lawyers he worked with. He discusses federal cases he worked on, including Perrin v. Aluminum Co. of America. He speaks at length about the judges on the U.S. District Court of Oregon. He closes the interview by discussing his involvement in professional organizations.

Biggs, Hugh L. (Hugh Lawry), 1904-1996

Oral history interview with John P. Bledsoe

This oral history interview with John P. Bledsoe was conducted by Donna Delo at Bledsoe's office in Portland, Oregon, from January 13 to March 10, 1989, as part of the United States District Court Oral History Project. The interview was conducted in five sessions.

In the first interview session, conducted on January 13, 1989, Bledsoe discusses his family background and early life in Pocahontas, Arkansas, including family vacations, the career of his father, John Louis Bledsoe, as a circuit court judge, and his reasons for pursuing a legal career. He speaks at length about his friends, including one who was later lobotomized. He talks about his education, about his involvement in sports, and about childhood games called "Jumper Down" and "Wolf Over the Ridge". He briefly shares his memories of being run over by a car when he was young.

In the second interview session, conducted on January 18, 1989, Bledsoe continues to discuss his early life in Pocahontas, including his religious background, how the town got its name, and his relationship with his parents. He shares his memories of the Great Depression. He then talks about his experiences at the University of Arkansas, including life in a boarding house, his social life, and his classes. He then talks about studying law at Harvard University, and speaks at length about his experiences in the U.S. Navy V7 Program during World War II.

In the third interview session, conducted on February 10, 1989, Bledsoe discusses returning to Harvard Law School after his discharge from the Navy in 1946, and adjusting to civilian life. He talks about his classes, about influential professors, and about his involvement with the Harvard Law Review. He speaks at length about his marriage to Helen Wieman and about their children. He shares his reasons for accepting a job in Portland, Oregon, and talks about practicing law with the Spears, Lubersky, Campbell & Bledsoe firm. He discusses lawyers he worked with, some of his clients, and how the legal profession changed. He speaks at length about some of the cases he tried, including a case involving the Pacific Gas Transmission Company; the Oregon Journal case, which involved attorney Charles Goldman; and a case regarding the Mann Act, also known as the White-Slave Traffic Act of 1910.

In the fourth interview session, conducted on February 17, 1989, Bledsoe continues to discuss some of the cases he worked on, and also talks about his law firm's involvement in the Brown v. Board of Education decision. He briefly shares his memories of the Oregonian newspaper strike in 1959, talks about a trip to Iran in the 1970s, and speaks at length about his involvement with the negotiations for the Champion Cable chain. He speaks further about lawyers he worked with.

In the fifth and final interview session, conducted on March 10, 1989, Bledsoe shares his memories of working with Jim Dezendorf. He then speaks at length about judges Gus Solomon, Alger Fee, and Claude McColloch. He shares his opinion on attributes that make good and bad judges. He also talks about well-known people he went to law school with, including Jack Pemberton, Elliot Richardson, and Bill Bundy. He also talks about his hobbies and involvement with social organizations, including the Arlington Club. He speaks at length about a bike trip in France, and also discusses historical moments that were significant to him. He closes the interview by talking about changes in society over the 20th century, and by sharing advice for aspiring lawyers.

Bledsoe, John P. (John Perry), 1921-2011

Oral history interview with William G. East

This oral history interview with William G. East was conducted by Rick Harmon in East's chambers in Eugene, Oregon, in two sessions from November 8-15, 1984, as part of the United States District Court Oral History Project.

In the first interview session, conducted on November 8, 1984, East discusses his family background and early life in Salem, Oregon, including his education and interest in journalism and sports. He then discusses attending the University of Oregon from 1927 to 1932 and studying law. He talks about the Depression hitting in the middle of his studies, his social life, and his developing political outlook. He also talks about Orlando Hollis and Wayne Morse as law professors. He then discusses practicing law in Eugene from 1932 to 1942, including law firms he worked at and cases he tried. He describes his experience in the U.S. Army during World War II, including his training, service in Germany, and his involvement in the capture of Hermann Göring. He describes his return to civilian life and law practice, as well as his position as city attorney for Eugene.

In the second interview session, conducted on November 15, 1984, East talks about his service on the Oregon Circuit Court from 1949 to 1955, including his appointment, conflict with the press, and various cases he heard. East goes on to discuss his service on the U.S. District Court of Oregon from 1955 to 1967, including his appointment. He particularly focuses on a scandal that nearly derailed his appointment and on a meeting with President Dwight D. Eisenhower. He also discusses cases he heard, including a negligence case involving Booth-Kelly Lumber Company that he heard twice, and a case on public defender compensation. He describes the changes to court procedures implemented by Judge Gus Solomon. He then discusses his decision to take senior status in 1967, as well as his activities since then, including cases on Native American rights and sovereignty. He closes the interview with a discussion of his judicial philosophy, his involvement with various civic organizations, and his hobbies and family life.

East, William G., 1908-1985

Oral history interview with Otto J. Frohnmayer

This oral history interview with Otto J. Frohnmayer was conducted by Clark Hansen at Frohnmayer's office in Medford, Oregon, as part of the United States District Court of Oregon Oral History Project. The interview was conducted in two sessions, on November 28, 1989, and December 1, 1989.

In the first interview session, Frohnmayer discusses his family background and early life in Portland, Oregon, including the reasons his family came to the United States, his education, and family vacations to Seaside. He also talks about anti-German sentiment in Portland, Oregon during World War I and how that affected him in his social and political views. He also talks about the fire that happened at Washington High School during his senior year. He discusses working in hotels and attending the University of Oregon, including his social life, studying law, and his experiences during the Depression. He talks about people and professors he met during law school, including Judge William East, and about his involvement with the Law Review.

In the second interview session, Frohnmayer shares his political and social philosophy, and how it was affected by the Depression and World War II. He discusses his early career as a lawyer in Medford, including cases he worked on, his fellow lawyers, and judges he argued before. He also talks about his involvement in several organizations, including the Rogue Valley Memorial Hospital and the Oregon State Bar; and about his involvement in politics, including leadership positions on campaign committees for Mark Hatfield and Wayne Morse. He describes the effects of World War II and the construction of Interstate 5 on Medford. He speaks at length about his work with probate law revision and how he came to focus on it. He discusses his marriage to MarAbel Fisher Braden, and talks about their children and their children's families and careers. He talks about members of the legal profession whom he worked with, and shares his opinion about the qualities that make for great lawyers and judges. He discusses the politics involved in judicial appointments; describes jury trials and appellate hearings; and talks about ethical problems that lawyers face. He also talks about how changes in the legal system have affected his practice and clientele. He closes the interview by talking about his plans for the future.

Frohnmayer, Otto J. (Otto John), 1905-2000

Oral history interview with Irene J. Lavorato

  • SR 3558
  • Collection
  • 1998-11-05 - 1998-11-19

This oral history interview with Irene J. Lavorato was conducted by Jan Dilg from November 5-19, 1998. The interview was conducted in three sessions.

In the first interview session, conducted on November 5, 1998, Lavorato discusses her family background in Italy and her early life in the Brooklyn neighborhood of Portland, Oregon, including the grocery store her parents ran, Lavorato's Food Store; her education; and her recreational activities. She then talks about working as a clinic clerk at the University of Oregon Medical School, and then as a clinic clerk at a private practice. She also describes her experiences during the Depression and World War II. She speaks at length about the Italian traditions her family observed when celebrating Christmas.

In the second interview session, conducted on November 10, 1998, Lavorato revisits the topics of working as a clinic clerk at the University of Oregon Medical School, and then as a clinic clerk at a private practice. She describes her job duties as clerk and also as a medical assistant. She talks about the changes in both medical and secretarial technology over her career, as well as the changes in the quality of medical care available to people. She also talks about a trip to Europe she took in 1955, including visiting her family's hometown of Cosenza, Italy. She talks about her relationship with her parents and sisters; about dating and marriage; and about why she never married.

In the third interview session, conducted on November 19, 1998, Lavorato discusses her nieces and nephews and talks about their careers and families. She talks about her political beliefs and about her involvement with the Catholic Church. She closes the interview by discussing her retirement activities.

Lavorato, Irene J. (Irene Jean), 1921-2005

Oral history interview with Vern B. Ryles

  • SR 2048
  • Collection
  • 1994-06-02 - 1995-02-23

This oral history interview with Vern B. Ryles was conducted by Michael O'Rourke at Ryles's office in Portland, Oregon, from June 2, 1994 to February 23, 1995, as part of the Oregon Historical Society Research Library's oral history program. The interview was conducted in seven sessions.

In sessions one and two, Ryles discusses his family background and early life in Walla Walla, Washington, his relationship with his father, and his marriage to Nancy Wyly. He talks about working for a trucking company in Chicago, Illinois, during the time that Jimmy Hoffa ran the Teamsters Union.

In sessions three through five, Ryles shares his thoughts about the economic and social factors behind the increase in homelessness, particularly in Oregon, in the late 20th century. He talks about his work as a member of the Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce to provide social services to people experiencing homelessness in Portland, discusses Portland Mayor Bud Clark's 12-point plan to address homelessness, and talks about the development of the Homeless Action Fund.

In sessions six and seven, Ryles reflects on the accomplishments of Portland's programs for homeless services. He then speaks at length about Nancy Ryles' service on the Beaverton school board; representing Washington County in the Oregon House from 1979 to 1982, and in the Oregon Senate from 1983 to 1987; and as a member of the Public Utility Commission from 1987 until her death in 1990. He talks about his marriage to Nancy Ryles, and about her death from cancer.

Ryles, Vern B. (Vernon Barton), 1937-2013

Northwest Women's History Project records and interviews

  • Coll 883
  • Collection
  • 1943-2021

This collection consists of the records of Northwest Women's History Project and audio recordings of oral history interviews the organization conducted with women who had worked in shipyards in Portland, Oregon, and Vancouver, Washington, during World War II.

Digitized materials available online in OHS Digital Collections consist of the interview audio recordings and, when available, completed interview transcripts. The interviews explore issues such as sexual harassment, sexism and racism in unions and on the job, child care, on-the-job training, and life after the war.

Undigitized materials available for use at the Oregon Historical Society Research Library consist of the Northwest Women's History Project records in the collection. The bulk of these records relate to the interviews with women shipyard workers and a resulting presentation, titled "Good Work, Sister!" The records include grant documents, telephone questionnaires, transcripts and excerpts of in-person interviews, photographic slides of interviewees who were featured in "Good Work, Sister!" and photographs and records relating to "Good Work, Sister!" events. Also included are some photographs, clippings, ephemera, and memorabilia relating to women shipyard workers in World War II. Other undigitized materials include administrative records, materials relating to the organization's later projects, and materials about the re-release of "Good Work, Sister!" on DVD.

Northwest Women's History Project

Oral history interview with Dorothy B. Leach

  • SR 9463
  • Collection
  • 1978-02-23

This oral history interview with Dorothy B. Leach was conducted by Roberta Watts at Leach's home in Portland, Oregon, on February 23, 1978, as part of the Oregon Historical Society Research Library's oral history program. The sound quality is very poor.

In this interview, Leach discusses the neighborhood in Northwest Portland where she has lived since 1924; talks about her early life in London, England, including her father's career as a sea captain; and shares her memories of operating a sailor's club in Portland during World War II. She talks about her reasons for leaving England, describes some of her travels in the early 20th century, and discusses at length her career as a dressmaker and sewing teacher in Portland. She also describes houses she lived in.

Leach, Dorothy B. (Dorothy Blanche), 1892-1990

Oral history interview with John F. Gange

  • SR 9440
  • Collection
  • 1978-01-27

This oral history interview with John F. Gange was conducted by Roberta Watts in Eugene, Oregon, on January 27, 1978, as part of the Oregon Historical Society Research Library's oral history program.

In this interview, Gange discusses his family background, including his grandfather's experiences in the Union Army during the Civil War, and his early life on an orange farm in Lindsay, California. He talks about his reasons for attending Stanford University instead of West Point. He discusses a trip he took to the Dominican Republic during World War II, and describes the country's politics during the war. He speaks about his involvement in the writing of the United Nations charter during the 1945 San Francisco conference. He then gives a brief overview of his career in international relations, particularly his work in Southeast Asia.

Gange, John F. (John Frederic), 1910-1991

Maurice J. Brown oral memoir

  • SR 9663
  • Collection
  • 1982-06-20

This oral memoir by Maurice J. Brown was recorded at Brown's home in San Diego, California, on June 20, 1982.

In this audio recording, Brown discusses his early life in Nehalem, Oregon, from 1912 to 1914, including his education, his childhood activities, and his family's daily life. He describes the town in the early 20th century, talks about the main industries of the area, and shares his memories of seeing shipwrecks along the coast. He speaks about his father's work as minister at a Methodist church in Nehalem and shares his memories of attending funerals over which his father presided. He describes moving with his family to Salem in 1914.

Brown, Maurice J. (Maurice James), 1906-2003

Mabel Ella Campbell oral memoir

  • SR 9664
  • Collection
  • 1980-12-30

This oral memoir of Mabel Ella Campbell was recorded at Campbell's home in Laguna Hills, California, on December 30, 1980.

In this recording, Campbell discusses the life and career of her father, John Montcalm Brown, a Methodist minister, and describes how the family came to Nehalem, Oregon, in 1912. She talks about her early life in Nehalem from 1912 to 1914, including her education and recreational activities. She describes the town, talks about the major industries of the area, and discusses the family's daily activities. She talks about people who lived in the town, and shares her memories of attending funerals and weddings over which her father presided. She describes the Methodist church in Nehalem and talks about the community's church activities, including Christmas celebrations. She describes moving with her family to Salem in 1914, and talks about churches her father worked at in other towns in Oregon.

Campbell, Mabel Ella, 1902-2002

Oral history interview with Herbert E. Yates

  • SR 9670
  • Collection
  • 1978-06-07

This oral history interview with Herbert E. Yates was conducted by Roberta Watts on June 7, 1978, as part of the Oregon Historical Society Research Library's oral history program.

In this interview, Yates speaks at length about the life and career of Parker Farnsworth Morey, and about the history of the Glenmorrie neighborhood of Lake Oswego, Oregon. He looks at Morey family photographs and letters, and talks about them. He then talks about the life and career of his uncle, Frederick Parker Morey, and his aunt, Josephine Alberta Morey (nee Yates). He describes the development of Glenmorrie in the early 20th century, including the creation of the water utility company, the Glenmorrie Cooperative Association. He closes the interview by talking about his service as president of the association.

Yates, Herbert E. (Herbert Edward), 1930-2006

Oral history interview with Ollie F. Osborn

  • SR 9350
  • Collection
  • 1981-09

This oral history interview with Ollie F. Osborn was conducted by Harriet Baskas in Union, Oregon, in September 1981. The interview was conducted as part of a series of interviews used in the radio program "Don't Fence Me In, the Cowgirls of Eastern Oregon," which aired on the Portland community station KBOO on December 8, 1981.

In this interview, Osborn discusses her career as a professional cowgirl on the rodeo circuit and in Wild West shows between 1913 and 1932. She talks about learning to ride as a child, describes various rodeo events, and discusses the cowgirls she toured with. She talks about passing up the opportunity to star in rodeo movies; describes the clothes the cowgirls wore; and shares funny stories from her rodeo days. She speaks about the death of Bonnie McCarrol in the 1929 Pendleton Round-up, and discusses the lack of women riders at the time of the interview in 1981. She closes the interview by talking about the inaccuracy of cowboy stereotypes; looking at photos from her rodeo days and discussing them; and discussing the differences in the treatment and payment of cowboys and cowgirls.

Osborn, Ollie F. (Ollie Frances), 1896-1989

Oral history interview with Bob Saxvik

This oral history interview with Bob Saxvik was conducted by Michael O'Rourke at the Idaho State Historical Society in Boise, Idaho, on August 16, 2000. The interview was conducted as part of the Northwest Power Planning Council Oral History Project, which documented the history and purpose of the Northwest Power Planning Council, now known as the Northwest Power and Conservation Council.

In this interview, Saxvik discusses his family background and early life in Minnesota and Iowa, including his experiences during the Depression and his education. He talks about his service in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War, and about his marriage to Marilyn Anne DeMers. He speaks about his career in radio broadcasting at KBAR Radio in Burley, Idaho; discusses his service in the Idaho State Senate from 1971 to 1976; and talks about his role in the administration of Idaho Governor John V. Evans.

Saxvik discusses the passage of the 1980 Northwest Power Act, then speaks at length about representing Idaho on the Northwest Power Planning Council from 1981 to 1996. He talks about serving as vice chair of the council from 1981 to 1983, about the first meetings of the council, and about his work on the first energy and conservation plan. He discusses opposition to the council's Model Building Codes, talks about the first fish and wildlife plan, and speaks about energy forecasting. He talks about the effect Dan Evans' departure from the council in 1983 had on the organizational structure of the NWPPC. He discusses the development of the fish and wildlife plan over the 1980s and 1990s, and closes the interview by talking about how changing state politics in the 1990s affected the council's work, particularly the conflicts surrounding the council's 1994 fish and wildlife plan.

Saxvik, Bob (Robert William), 1930-2016

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