Richard Gould, great-grandson of Gene Gould, Friday Harbor’s first mayor (1909-10), visited Friday Harbor this week to research family history, visit sites connected to his family, and get acquainted with relatives.

Gould and his wife, Linda, are printers at the Register-Guard newspaper in Eugene, Ore.

During their visit to the island, they toured the Coldwell Banker building on Spring and First streets. The building was built in 1907 and was the longtime home of San Juan County Bank, of which Gene Gould was president. (Two other relatives also served as bank president and as Friday Harbor mayor: Cecil Carter, 1926-28; and Alan F. Carter, 1960-64.)

The Goulds also visited a cousin, Dennie Carter, of Key Bank, the successor of San Juan County Bank.

Gould sent this e-mail on Thursday to Journal Editor Richard Walker:

Hi Richard,

Here’s how the adventure turned out: After talking to Dennie Carter, we were able to figure out that the Gould House is the one now known as Geneste House. Linda and I went to the Geneste place, had a wonderfully informative visit with the tenants, and then went to talk to Jeanie Garrett upon their suggestion. Jeanie, like you, suggested we contact the museum for further insights into local history. Meanwhile, my wife the motorhead, was treated to an encounter with Jim Garrett’s Lotus Elise. We had an informative but brief visit at the museum, but will be back soon for more.

After telling my father of this adventure, he informed me that he has some historical plates related to the founding of the local Presbyterian Church. He wishes to donate them to the museum, so we will be back in a few months to do so.

This was, without a doubt, the most enjoyable vacation that I’ve ever taken. To encounter so much of my ancestors’ history, and to have so many locals help me bring it to life, was a real treat!

Many and much thanks to you and Howard for being key parts of this journey. I hope to see you both when we return!

Best,

Rick Gould