When general stores were in vogue, MacMaster was a leading name in the paper mill town of Camas.
The store was established in 1883 by Aeneas MacMaster, catering to employes of the new mill headed by Henry Pittock, publisher of the Portland Oregonian.
MacMaster, born in Scotland, had lived for a while in Quebec before migrating to Washington Territory.
He was one of the first to break ground at the Camas townsite, and opened his store in 1883. He constructed a two-story building at Third and Columbia streets in 1885 for his Pioneer Store, and the top floor was used as a lodge hall.
‘During the summer of 1888, I went back to Quebec on a visit,” Hugh MacMaster said. “A telegram reached me that my father had died. I being the oldest son felt that my place was to return at once to Camas. I became head member of the mercantile firm. I was associated with my brother-in-law and younger brother (Donald), who later became a lawyer, moving to Vancouver to practice his chosen profession.”
A new two-story building for the store was completed about 1916.
After leaving the business, Hugh MacMaster served as a town clerk.
Donald MacMaster held positions as Clark County prosecutor and superior court judge, and was an official of several companies.