Presley Alexander Dorris (1822-1902)

Early Butte Valley Pioneer - Siskiyou Co, California

Vital Statistics

 * Son of Josiah Dorris (1796-1871) and Lucy Drury (1796-1899)
 * Born 8 Nov 1822 - Smith Co, Tennessee
 * Died 23 Nov 1901 - Alturas, Modoc Co, California

Biography
In 1862 Presley Dorris settled the ‘D’ Ranch approximately 2 miles east of the present town of Dorris. The original ranch house has been preserved and is still there.

In 1862 he had an agreement with the Modoc Indians to let his cattle run unmolested on their tribal lands. They had very friendly relations. He helped to negotiate during the Modoc Indian wars of 1869-1873, the largest Indian wars in California history.

The town of Dorris was established as a result of the railroad coming through this part of the valley. Dorris was named for Presley Dorris of the D ranch. Dorris was incorporated in 1908. Several buildings were moved four miles from Picard to the Dorris townsite.

Other family members also settled in this area - including his mother and brother Cyrus, Lethe, Columbus and Carlos.