Frederick V. Holman

Born in 1852 and raised in the Pacific Northwest, Frederick Van Voorhies Holman became a prominent Portland attorney as well as a deeply engaged civic figure. He studied in Portland and later earned a degree from the University of California, Berkeley, before being admitted to the Oregon bar. Alongside his legal career, he was active in public life and was known in Oregon for his leadership in historical and professional organizations.

As a writer, he is best remembered for historical work connected to Oregon and the broader region. His best-known book is Dr. John McLoughlin, the Father of Oregon, and he also contributed articles to reference works including the Catholic Encyclopedia. His writing reflects a lasting interest in the people, events, and debates that shaped early Oregon.

Holman died in Portland in 1927. Today he is still of interest to readers who enjoy regional history, especially books that bring together biography, legal insight, and the story of the American Northwest.