So this is a much delayed follow up to my first post about this topic. In December we received a comment that a practical neighbor knew where the well site is. So after the holidays, Tom’s birthday trip and the snows, we were finally able to visit this site last weekend. We did a follow up trip today to get better photos that try to recreate the photos that Percival R. Jeffcott took of Ray Jordan pointing out the sites of the well, the first cabin and the second cabin. So here are those photos:
Jordan stands in sunken spot of Jarman’s well
recreation of Jarman’s well photo
Ray Jordan and present owner locate first cabin
recreation of first cabin photo with same fir tree in the background
Jordan’s “One Acre Clearing” and the site of his second cabin. The fence marks Jarman’s east line; his claim was on the further side. Ray Jordan points to the cabin site. In the grove at the left are the graves of Jarman’s wife and a daughter.
recreation of second cabin photo
So now we believe we know the locations of Jarman’s first and second cabins on Jarman Prairie, where we live. It is exhilarating to finally know this information. He was the first permanent settler in what became Skagit as well as Whatcom counties. And now the locations of his original claim is known as well as the locations of his homes here and his improvements. I really wish we could find one of his original apples trees so we will keep looking. Our plans are to finally visit the Washington State Archives Northwest Regional Branch, The Center for Pacific Northwest Studies and to visit his grave.
Very interesting!
Thanks! I think it is.
Pingback: Our Farm’s History | Schoonover Farm Blog
Bill and Alice’s granddaughter, Mabel, is my great grandmother. We drove by Jarman field 10-15 years ago on vacation. I have a book about him written by Jefcott. I heard he has relatives in England too but haven’t gotten any contact information. -Tim
That is so wonderful that you contacted me! If you are ever in the area again, please contact me so we can visit. I have been meaning to do more research at WWU library and Skagit County Historical Museum but haven’t. I have the same book as well as other resources about his amazing life. I would love to locate Alice’s grave which is nearby here.