The Oregon Rifles was the first military force organized for the protection of Oregon Country in the Pacific Northwest of North America.[1] Shortly after the Whitman Massacre, Oregon Governor George Abernethy communicated to the legislature his concern about the seriousness of the conditions, and issued a call for volunteers. A company of 45 men, furnishing their own rifles and equipment, organized in Oregon City and arrived in The Dalles on December 21, 1847.[1]
Those who did not have their own rifles were furnished arms by John McLoughlin. H. A. G. Lee was named captain of the unit.[2]
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References[edit]
- ^ a b Horner, John (1919). Oregon: Her History, Her Great Men, Her Literature. p. 116.
- ^ Gaston, Joseph (1912). . Vol. I. Chicago: The S. J. Clarke Publishing Company.