Background
Whitman, Marcus was born on September 4, 1802 in Rusnville, New York, United States. Son of Beza and Alice (Green) Whitman.
Whitman, Marcus was born on September 4, 1802 in Rusnville, New York, United States. Son of Beza and Alice (Green) Whitman.
Doctor of Medicine College Physicians and Surgeons of Western District New York, 1832.
1 daughter (1837-1839). Practiced medicine; became missionary for joint Presbyterian-Congregational Board, 1835. Traveled west with missionary party including Henry and Eliza Spalding, 1836.
Party established 2 missions, at present sites of Lewiston, Idaho, and Walla Walla, Washington (then Waiilatpu, Oregon). Pioneered portions of Oregon Trail from Fort Boise, Idaho to Waiilatpu, 1836. Taught Indians methods of farming by irrigation, value of domesticated cattle, better housing.
Disputes among Whitman and other missionaries led board to close one of missions. Made 6-month cross-continental ride, 1842-1843, to New York City, Boston, and Washington, District of Columbia to convince the board of value of the missions, also to stimulate government private interest in Oregon. Returned to Oregon with an emigrant party, 1843.
Killed with wife and 12 others in Cayuse Indian uprising, 1847.
Married Narcissa Prentiss, February 1836.