Reuben P. Boise - Later Life and Legacy

Later Life and Legacy

Judge Boise has probably done more than any other man to systematize the practice of law in this state and to raise it to a high standard. He was a man whose ability and integrity were recognized by every one who knew him. His work speaks louder than words and stands as a monument to his glory.

In his later years, Boise served on the board of trustees at Willamette University in Salem and Pacific University in Forest Grove. Pacific gave him an honorary doctor of laws degree. Additionally, he was a trustee at the La Creole Academy preparatory school in Dallas and a regent of the Oregon Agricultural College (now Oregon State University). He also spent five terms as the master of the state grange association, and owned the Ellendale Woolen Mill. A public speaker, he gave speeches for the Oregon Historical Society, the Oregon Pioneer Society, and the Oregon State Bar as well as at the dedication of a monument to missionary Jason Lee.

Reuben Patrick Boise died on April 10, 1907, at the age of 87 in Salem, and is buried at Salem Pioneer Cemetery. Former U.S. Attorney General George Henry Williams gave the eulogy at the funeral, with many prominent politicians and officials in attendance. In honor of the former judge, the state courts adjourned for the day. At the time of his death, Boise owned more than 2,600 acres (11 km2) of farmland spread across three farms in Marion and Polk counties. Reuben Boise road in Polk County is named in his honor, as is the R. P. Boise Building in Salem, listed on the National Register of Historic Places.