Asa Shinn Mercer (1839-1917) - Find a Grave Memorial

Asa Mercer joined his older brother in Seattle in 1859 shortly after graduating from college in Ohio. From 1861-1863 he was the first president of the University of Washington. After he left the university he decided to personally remedy the lack of single women in Seattle by going to get some. He brought the first group in 1864, and another group in 1866. These efforts were the basis for the 60's TV series "Here Come the Brides". Later he moved to Wyoming and became a newspaper editor. His book "The Banditti of the Plains" took on the Wyoming Livestock Association. In retaliation his life was threatened, his reputation destroyed, and his career ended. He died in obscurity.

Bio by: Ann Gillespie