At some point Robert Shipley moved to Missouri and Reuben was brought along; at the time, he was valued at $1,500.
[1] Approximately ten years before the American Civil War, in 1853, Robert gave Reuben the option of moving with him to the Oregon Territory or being sold for $1,000.
[1] In exchange for helping him move to Oregon and build a home, Robert said he would grant Reuben his freedom.
[1] In 1853, Reuben traveled to Oregon, driving an oxen team from Missouri approximately 2,000 miles.
[5] Although two locals, Reverend T.J. Connor and Eldridge Hartless, advised against it, Reuben paid the "ransom" the same day, which was between $400-$800.
[1] In 1861 Reuben Shipley donated land to create Mt Union Cemetery in Philomath, Oregon.