Speckmanj
Transcribed from "History of North Washington, an illustrated history
of Stevens, Ferry, Okanogan and Chelan counties", published by Western
Historical Publishing Co., 1904.
JOHN SPECKMAN, who dwells on
the bank of Fish lake, in Okanogan county, is one of the earliest pioneers
of the county and is one of its substantial citizens now. He came
with the intention of making a home and has adhered closely to this line
since, with the gratifying result that he has now a well improved farm
on the lake, a comfortable residence and sufficient outbuildings and so
forth to accommodate his crops and stock.
John Speckman was born in Erie, Pennsylvania
in July, 1850, the son of Robert and Emma (Toal) Speckman. The maternal
grandfather was a patriot in the Revolution and fought bravely for the
American cause. At the age of nine, our subject went from home to
sea and was forecastle boy on the merchant marine. He learned the
seaman's art and was soon before the mast a full sailor. During these
years he visited various portions of the globe and had many thrilling experiences.
When nineteen he quit the sea and went to steamboating on the Mississippi.
Later he railroaded and then went west. In June, 1886, Mr. Speckman
landed in Loomis and the following year located his present place.
Since that time he has continued here, and remarks that for all these years,
he has not traveled over twenty miles from the farm. He raises hay
and cattle principally and is a man of good substantial qualities.