GOVERNOR JAMES WITHYCOMBE
January 12, 1915
GOVERNOR JAMES WITHYCOMBE
James Withycombe is the only man who resigned a college chair that he might assume the duties of an Oregon Governor, and he is the only Governor of Oregon re-elected on the Republican ticket. He was born in Tavistock, England, March 21, 1854. When seventeen years of age he moved with his parents to Hillsboro, Oregon, where he lived on a farm. Although a mere youth, Mr. Withycombe displayed keen interest in all problems relating to rural life, and proved himself to be an enthusiastic admirer of fine livestock of all kinds, with a special fondness for the American saddle horse. After receiving thorough training in grammar and secondary schools, he specialized under tutors in agriculture and veterinary science, and in 1889, was appointed State Veterinarian. He resigned nine years later to accept the office of Agriculturist, Director of the Oregon Experiment Station, and Director of Farmers' Institutes held under the supervision of the Oregon Agricultural College. During his connection with that institution of learning, Doctor Withycombe was associated with a number of the most prominent livestock associations of this country, and at various times was delegate to congressional and state conventions and other civic organizations. In 1914, he was elected Governor on the Republican ticket, receiving the largest plurality
