People and Business
The people of Independence worked hard to start a new life along the Willamette. Many were very successful as business owners, others made their fortunes in the gold fields. Some made their mark on this small town that will last hundreds of years.
Some of the early founders of Independence were Elvin Thorpe and Henry Hill.
Early Doctors in the area included Dr.George C. Knott, Dr. Searing, Dr. Hewitt and the two Dr's Butler, one being a medical doctor the other a dentist.
The businesses were long standing in those days, such as, Sloper Bros. & Cockle, Hanna Bros. Hardware, First National Bank and Messners dry goods and grocery. Although the buildings still stand, the businesses have changed, with the exception of Taylor's Fountain, and the bank is still a bank.
