| Charles Bennett came to Oregon with Nataniel
Ford wagon train traveling from Fort Leavenworth, Kansas in
1844. Three years later, he went to California and with James
Marshall contracted to build a mill at Coloma, the site of John
Sutter's Helvetia Colony. In 1848, the gold rush began with
the discovery of gold there; Bennett and his friends always
claimed that he was first to recognize the treasure, although
credit for the discovery went to Sutter. Shortly thereafter,
Bennett returned to Oregon where he continued his career as
a carpenter, builder of the Bennett House (1850), co-builder
of the river steamer Canamah (1851), and contractor for the
foundations of the first capitol (1854). When the Indian wars
began, he became Captain of Company F, Oregon Mounted Volunteers.
He died in the battle of Walla Walla, 1855.
Researched by Monica Mersinger
Bibliography:
Pioneer Cemetery , nomination for historic registry. Written
by Frank Bellinghausen, Salem Parks and Recreation Department,
December 5 1984.
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