I’m trying to clean out, consolidate and, in general, make sense of my files. However, I’ve all but given up after just two days. The problem is, I saved these “gems” because they are just that and I’m just not ruthless enough to pitch and toss. Just now, for instance I ran across a note from historian and journalist Ruth Dixon (1906- 2001) to my Uncle Willard, probably written to him when he was collecting information for his book, Oysterville, Roads to Grandpa’s Village.
Copied from the diary of Patterson Fletcher Luark, a pioneer of the vicinity of Westport:
Wednesday, Feb. 11,1863:
Went to lighthouse with team. Found 7 or 8 men here from Bruceport pretending (?) to hunt for the body of Captain Wells; he and a stranger from Oregon in crossing from Bruceport on the 15th instant were both lost off Tokes Point.

From James A Gibbs Pacific Graveyard: Willapa Bay Light Station shows two lights. The shorter tower, proving too low and threatened by erosion, a higher tower was bult at right.
Friday, April 3, 1863:
The bodies of Capt. Wells and Cline, lost on the 15th of February off Tokes Point were found yesterday and today.
(Mr. Luark refers to giving Mrs. Wells a ride to his house for a visit, or returning her home. They seemed to be very good friends.)
This is just a few of the tidbits I have, but not knowing just what you lack, and what you have, this will give you some idea.
Our history is so lacy — full of holes, it is a great feeling to be able to smooth it out a bit.
Thank] you for writing.
And, yes, please do send me a copy of Isaac’s letter. [Isaac Clark, ss ] Quite a few members of the family (mostly Wilsons) are collecting data, and I enjoy helping, and sharing.
The information about the July 4, 1872 boat race will be so welcome.
Signed [Ruth Dixon]