Biography of Franklin Calhoun Baker, 1899, State of Oregon
Surnames: Baker

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Transcribed for use in USGenWeb Archives by:
W. David Samuelsen - January 2002
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Oregon Native Son, Vol. 1, June 1899, page 116-117

FRANKLIN CALHOUN BAKER.

Frank C. Baker, 13th state printer of Oregon, was born in what was formerly,
Washington County, now Multnomah, Oregon, June 18, 1854. His father, W. W.
Baker, emigrated from Wapello county, Iowa, in 1850, and came directly to
Oregon; his mother, Frances Isabel accompanied by her brother, Theodore
Hackney, coming three years later. Mr. Baker attended the common schools dur
ing his early youth, obtaining an ordinary education, and in 1867 gained his
first knowledge of "printer's ink," as he designates it, while in the employ
of E. S. McComas, at La Grande, Oregon. in the office of the Mountain
Sentinel. After learning the printer's trade, he was employed on the Baker
City Herald. Silver City (Idaho) Avalanche, and subsequently on the Boise City
Statesman. He finally returned to Portland, where he worked at his trade,
principally in the employ of H. L. Pittock. In 1886, while serving his third
term as president oi Multnomah Typographical Union, one of the leading labor
organizations of Oregon. and while engaged with his father in the publication
of the North Pacific Rural Spirit, he was nominated for the office pf state
printer by the republican state convention. This nomination was made in
response to an unanimous request by the union printers of the state. He was
elected by an overwhelming majority, and in 1890 was renominated by
acclamation and re-elected by an increased majority over that accorded him on
his first election. His administration was characterized by prompt attention
to business and universal courtesy to his associates and the public in
general. He enjoys the distinction of being the first state printer to succeed
himself in office.

Mr. Baker is a shining light in the Masonic fraternity, being a member of all
its various degrees. He is a past sachem of the Improved Order of Red Men and
a past exalted ruler of the Elks. He is at present interested in various
enterprises both in California and his native state.