David Solis Cohen

Born in Philadelphia in 1852, David Solis Cohen later became part of the Jewish community that helped build Portland, Oregon. A biographical sketch from the period describes him as having moved west after work in journalism and gone on to co-found the firm Cohen, Davis & Co., which became an important importing business in the Northwest.

He was also known for public service. Contemporary accounts describe him as active in philanthropy and civic organizations, including work connected with children’s aid, free kindergarten efforts, and Jewish communal life in Portland.

Although he is not widely remembered today, surviving historical references suggest a life that connected business success, journalism, and community leadership. He died in 1928.