History Tidbit: Dr. A.J. Hockett

Roger Hockett, who grew up in Joseph, and now writes frequent essays for the Wallowa County Chieftain, contacted the Wallowa History Center to share information on his Uncle, Asheal J. Hockett, who practiced medicine in the 1950's in Wallowa.

The Hockett family were well known as Prairie Creek ranchers near Joseph, particularly Roger's Father, Ray. Roger's Grandfather was Dr. Clyde Hockett, who practiced medicine in Wallowa County for almost 50 years and was a civic leader. Less known in the County was Dr. A.J. Hockett who had a medical practice in Wallowa. Dr. A.J. Hockett was raised in Wallowa County. He then went to Western Oregon for High School and Medical School.  He married Lelah Childers, a descendant of the Morelock family of Wallowa. He became an influential Medical practitioner at the University of Wisconsin and at Tulane University in Louisiana.

In 1951, he returned to Wallowa and practiced Family Medicine at the little house that still stands on the southwest corner of Holmes St and Hwy 82. He was a compassionate Doctor, but also eccentric. His hobby was the keeping of Capuchin monkeys. He owned several as pets. Older residents of Wallowa have stories to tell about the doctor and remember him fondly.

Written By Marilyn Hulse, February 2024