Pioneer Farmers near the Town of Metolius
By Steve Lent, Crook County Historian
James Henry Horney was born on October 4, 1853, in Warren County, Illinois. In his early years, he met Almeda Jackson, who was born in 1857. Their relationship blossomed into marriage on December 21, 1881, in Green County, Ohio. The couple began their married life on a farm in Cameron, Illinois, where they raised four children.
As the nation expanded westward, James and Almeda were inspired by tales of opportunity in Oregon. In 1891, they embarked on a significant journey to the West. Traveling by train to California and then by wagon, they eventually settled near Brownsville, Oregon. For nine years, the family farmed the land, building a life in their new surroundings.
Homesteading in Central Oregon
In 1901, news of opportunities in Central Oregon captured James's attention. He journeyed to Prineville to explore potential homestead sites and eventually filed a claim five miles south of "The Basin," a region that would later become Madras. At the time, it was a remote area with only a handful of settlers.
James returned to Brownsville via the Santiam Wagon Road to prepare his family for the move. Their journey across the Cascade Mountains took seven days, a testament to the rugged determination required of pioneers. James's sister, Mary, also filed a homestead claim nearby, strengthening the family’s foothold in the area. James officially patented his claim on September 22, 1908.
The Horney family farmed their land for several years, with their son La Monte contributing significantly. La Monte eventually filed his own homestead claim and established a farm of his own. James also became an active community member, serving as a director for the Fairview School, which was located on Mary’s homestead. Two of James and Almeda’s daughters followed a path of education, becoming teachers.
Life in Metolius and the Later Years
In 1918, James built a house in the growing town of Metolius. He and Almeda split their time between the town and their homestead. Almeda passed away on July 22, 1935, leaving James to continue managing the homestead. Remarkably active even in his later years, James was known to walk six miles to Madras regularly. He passed away on November 1, 1944, and was laid to rest alongside Almeda at Mt. Jefferson Memorial Park in Madras, Oregon.
A Lasting Legacy
The Horney family’s contributions to Central Oregon are remembered fondly. A distinctive red barn, adorned with a large white “H” and located on a hill west of present-day Highway 97 south of Madras, stands as a landmark. This barn, part of La Monte Horney’s farm, serves as a lasting tribute to the pioneering spirit of James Henry Horney and his family.
Through their courage, perseverance, and community involvement, James and Almeda Horney exemplified the pioneering spirit that shaped the development of Central Oregon.