Kahler Home

Robert Kahler was part of a prominent Southern Oregon family whose “doings” were frequently reported in the press.  In 1852, the Kahler family had emigrated from Ohio, settling on a donation land claim near Fort Lane in Jackson County (later Camp White during WWII and now the White City Veterans facility).  Robert was one of 3 sons who became prominent Jacksonville residents.  He was a successful druggist, selling not only drugs, but also books, stationery, paints, oils, and other goods.   Last week we featured his drug store at 120 W. California Street.

In 1879, Robert acquired the entire block of 6th Sreet between E and D streets.  Two years later he sold the southern portion to his father, retaining the lot at the corner of North 6th and E.  In the fall of 1880, the Oregon Sentinel reported that Robert Kahler had built “a large and commodious two story dwelling house for occupancy by himself and family at a cost of $1,500.”  The Sentinel had earlier reported that “Robert Kahler’s fine new residence…is completed and will soon be occupied.”  In mid-September, it noted that “Robert Kahler moved into his new house on Sixth Street.” 

At the time, new construction was regularly reported in the local newspapers as signs of Jacksonville’s “New Boom.”  In 1880, after years of prosperous gold mining, agriculture, and trade activity, the town’s future was uncertain.  Newspapers called attention to every sign of confidence.  The activities of Robert and his brothers merited special attention, and they enjoyed “the unbounded confidence and respect of the entire community.”