Death Removes George C. Wallace, Colorful Figure In Western Life

George C. Wallace, 71, figure in northwest history, world traveler and for the last 36 years a resident of Nez Perce county, died at White's hospital at 7:50 a.m. yesterday of complications. He had been at the institution several weeks.

A native of Tarrytown, N. Y., born Feb. 9, 1869, he was orphaned at the age of 10 and ran away from home for a seafaring life. He worked in the merchant marine and by the time he was 15 had traveled twice around the world. Upon reaching the age of 16 he joined the United States navy, and served through two enlistments, and when honorably discharged had encircled the world seven times. He spoke several languages fluently. When the statue of liberty was unveiled on Bedloe island in 1886, Mr. Wallace was a menber of a battleship crew firing the salute as the flag was unfurled.

Knew "Calamity Jane"

Coming west he located in Montana and drove a stage in the eastern part of that state with Livingston as a terminus. Among his passengers, he was wont to tell, was "Calamity Jane," famous in annals of northwest history. Giving up his work as stage driver he interested himself in mining in Montana and served as smelter superintendent for a large company, later engaging in the mercantile business at Butte. His yen for outdoor life led him to Yellowstone national park to become chief of guides.

In 1904 Mr. Wallace arrived at Lewiston and the same year formed a partnership with Henry Hames. They owned the store and postoffice at Waha at a time when it was the mecca for scores of vacationists. They improved the grounds, erected a hotel and entertainment hall, constructed cabins and encouraged many Lewiston people to build summer homes around the lake before its waters were drained for irrigation purposes.

Boy Scouts of 25 or more years ago vacationed at Waha under the guidance of Mr. Wallace. He accompanied the boys over the mountains, hunted and fished with them and at night around the camp fire recounted some of his thrilling experiences at sea. In the world war period Mr. Wallace was the recipient of a medal from the government for topping the sale in this county of liberty bonds.

The firm of Hames & Wallace dissolved 13 years ago and since then Mr. Wallace made his home in Lewiston. He was custodian of the Masonic temple.

Prominent Mason

Mr. Wallace joined the Masonic order in early life and was active in its work until incapacitated by illness. He was a member of the York and Scottish Rite bodied and an affiliate of Calam temple of the Shrine; he also was a member of the Lewiston lodge of Eagles.

Survivors are his daughter, Mrs. Ralph Jones, Pendleton, and three grandchildren, Phyllis Jones, Joanne Jones and Barbara Jones. Mr. and Mrs. Jones came to Lewiston when his condition became dangerous and were at the bedside when death came.