In 1884, Samuel G. Cosgrove located at Dayton and was admitted to practice in the courts of the territory, but soon removed to Pomeroy. He was a veteran of the Civil war, an orator and an excellent trial lawyer. His predominant characteristics were ambition and perseverance, never losing sight of his goal until by persistent efforts he had reached it. He was a member of the constitutional convention and finally achieved his life long ambition to be governor of Washington. It is to be regretted that he did not live to enjoy the fruits of his life long work.
Much might be said of these three men, but their history is a part of the history of the state; they put Pomeroy on the map, and gave it the reputation of having produced more prominent men than any small town in our state.
During the year 1886, Charles R. Dorr and James Ewen Edmiston, both of whom had read law in Dayton, took the examination and were admitted to practice. Charlie Dorr was an orator and a student and quickly took his place among the leading lawyers, and it was often said that he was the most brilliant young lawyer in this part of the state. With him ambition reigned supreme, and this coupled with natural industry and backed by that drive power which causes men to do things worth while, would have made him a power in this state, had he lived a few years longer. He was prosecuting attorney for two years, and took his place among the campaign orators of the state. His death in 1892, after six years of practice, was the cause of much regret.
James E. Edmiston in private life was a quiet unassuming gentleman, loved and respected by everyone. As a lawyer he was successful from the start, and soon built up a large practice. His knowledge of men and his ability to judge them as they are, gained from his experience as a teacher, a minister and a business man, prior to his taking up the law, made him a dangerous opponent in the trial of cases in court. He was well founded in the principles of the law, was a convincing speaker and had great weight with a jury. He filled the office of prosecuting attorney for two years, with credit to himself. His death in 1900, while yet in the prime of life and the midst of his usefulness, was a great loss to the community. It can be truly said, that a better, kinderhearted man than J. E. Edmiston, never lived.
WINTER NELLIS PEARS, CLARKSTON
APPLES GROWN IN CLARKSTON
The history of this state cannot be written without referring many times to the lawyers mentioned in this paper. A senator, a congressman, a governor, many judges of the Supreme and Superior courts, and all have made good in the positions to which they were called. Southeastern Washington has been the training ground for many great men.