Latham

From Lane Co Oregon

Henry Wells Taylor and Charlotte Taylor, natives of New Jersey, came overland in 1852 settling in the area near Latham, now about three miles south of Cottage Grove on Sixth Street. According to notes by descendent Lillian Taylor, the first meetings were in the log school house at Latham. The school dates from 1853 and public services were started in 1857.

Henry and Charlotte are buried in the very first plot at the entrance to the Taylor-Lane Cemetery south of Cottage Grove.

John Moses Harris (pioneer preacher of 1865) was also involved with the congregation, his name appearing on a list of donors to purchase books. He wife was Jane Harris. Perhaps some of these families moved south to form the Hebron congregation in later years. But the Latham congregation had life until the church was established further up 6th Street in the new town of Cottage Grove. Joseph H. Sharp operated a general merchandise store here.

John M. and Jane Harris are buried together in the Taylor-Lane Cemetery just off London Road.

Pioneer Reminders: Taylor Creek, Taylor Butte Road, Taylor-Lane Cemetery and the Latham School.