Elbridge Trask

In 1843, the ship headed to the Hawaiian Islands carrying lumber and returning with slaves and much needed supplies for Wyeth. In Oregon at Fort William, Elbridge spent the summer working on the ship, packing salmon, etc.

Much of what is known about Elbridge Trask's fur trapping career is documented in Osborne Russell's book Journal of a Trapper. Since Trask was a comrade of Russell, he is mentioned in this precise diary on various expeditions. Here is a summary of his movements:

He built a home east of Tillamook, was a partner in the building of a boat which shipped settlers produce to California and helped bring cattle to the Willamette Valley. Later many of these cattle would be bought by Ben Snipes.

Indian troubles erupted in the area and Elbridge built a fort around his home. Fort Trask was used by many locals as a refuge during uprisings. Some trouble was averted by Trask because of his fur trapper background. The Tillamook Indians knew his word was a bond and the Tillamook helped fight roving bands of trouble makers. This force helped save the lives of many settlers.

Trask was six feet tall, had flowing red hair, two hundred pounds and could move like a cat. He exhibited a good sense of humor and could erupt into spontaneous laughter.

Elbridge Trask is buried in the Pioneer Cemetery east of Tillamook, OR. Since the exact location of his grave is not known, a memorial plaque has been placed at the entrance. His home was across the road from the present day Sunset Memorial Cemetery.

I have constructed a crude map which will help you locate Elbridge Trask's grave. Click on the Elbridge Trask link below.