Newspaper Summary 1931

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1931 Vashon Island News-Record Summary (Mike Sudduth)

January 1931

January 2, 1931

Vashon High School Basketball Teams To Play Bremerton – Everyone on the Island should be at the Vashon high school gymnasium Friday night at 7:30. Why? Because the first home game of what promises to be an exciting season will be played between the Vashon and Bremerton first and second teams. And, the boys will be all decked out in the new basketball suits. It will be worth your while. See you all Friday night.
Notice – We will honor no checks issued by the Marketing Association prior to 1930. – Board of Directors.
Work Being Done On Island Docks – On Monday Tom Blum and H.J. Woelber of the county engineer’s office were on the Island making final arrangements for the work on several Island docks. This week work started on the Portage dock, where many of the piles are being replaced. Since this dock is being used to such an extent for the unloading of straw and hay shipped in by Island feed dealers it is necessary to keep it in good repair. The Shawnee dock, which is also badly in need of repair, will be put in good condition, this work to start as soon as the Portage job is completed. Mr. Blum, who is in charge of work of this nature, was able to get machinery for the work that will hasten the completion of both jobs. It is not anticipated that work on the new North End dock can be started before the middle of next month. This project has been delayed all along the line, until now the work will be held over till danger from bad weather and northeastern gales is past.
Japanese Colony Present Trees – At a recent meeting of the board of directors of the Vashon Island high school, U. Nishiyori, representing the Japanese colony of the Island, formally presented to D.S. Siegrist, chairman of the board, one hundred Japanese cherry trees. The trees presented to the local high school will be planted on the grounds probably sometime in March, and it is hoped that there may be appropriate ceremonies. This gift typifies the spirit that exists among the Japanese people of Vashon Island toward the schools their children attend, and it is fitting that there should be public recognition and acceptance of their gift.
Night School To Begin January 12 – Having received the endorsement of the high school board night school will begin Monday evening, January 12th, at 7:30, at the Vashon Island high school. Six subjects are to be offered, namely business essentials, English typing, review of common branches, public speaking and citizenship. Manual training can be offered, in addition if sufficient interest is shown. The course is to run eight weeks, two nights each week, Monday and Tuesday, unless the class after organization wish to change the nights. A tuition of $2.00 per pupil, for the eight weeks, is to be paid on the night of registration, no reduction to be made for nights lost, or late registration.
Vashon Grammar School Notes – Chicken pox is playing havoc with attendance, which up to this date has averaged about 90 per cent. Those suffering from it, up to date, are Shirlie and Rachel Blekkink, Marciann Hansen, Geneva Edson, the Heydine and Croan twins, Bobbie Tjomsland, Ruth Strom, Ola Warner and Alan Metzenberg.
The Report of the Financial Condition of the Vashon State Bank, at the close of business on the 31st day of December, 1930, shows total assets of $338,300.51.
Sand and gravel are being hauled for the new oven of the Vashon Bakery, and masons will be at work on it before the end of the week.
Dr. A.E. Young and family are mourning the loss of their dog “Trixie”, which was run over in front of the Vye Apartments last Tuesday and so badly injured that it had to be chloroformed.

January 8, 1931 (missing)

January 15, 1931

Ila Besonen To Be Miss Vashon – Miss Ila Besonen, popular student at the Vashon Island high school has been chosen to represent the Vashon Island Commercial Club at the Consolidated South District Commercial Club banquet to be held at the Seattle Chamber of Commerce Friday evening January 23. Ila is not only a charming, attractive girl, but she is capable as well. Despite the fact that she is active in every line of school activities, plays in the orchestra, takes part in athletics, is a member of the debating club, etc., all this does not prevent her from maintaining such a high average in her school work that her name is on the honor roll for good scholarship. With it all Ila is doing her part in keeping the home running in good order during her mother’s recent illness. Which all goes to show that our Island is not going to be represented by a girl who is merely pretty, but by one that possesses a lot of other desirable qualifications.
Thirty Enroll For Night School – On last Monday evening thirty pupils appeared for enrollment at the first session of night school. Several more will be added to the list when classes meet Thursday evening. This response was rather surprising to those in charge of the work. Since the success of this term of work was to determine a future continuation of the work it would seem that a longer session next winter is practically assured. The committee-in-charge wish particularly to make known that the night school must be self-supporting, and that none of the expense is to be paid out of high school funds.
Commercial Club Notes – Cephas J. Ramquist has been appointed on the executive committee of the Vashon Island Commercial Club to represent the Cove district. R.W.F. Martin, chairman of the publicity committee, announces the selection of his committee as follows: Dr. J.G. Bennett, Frank Lilly, E.H. Miller and Agnes L. Smock. Preliminary work is being done on folders, advertising the Island, that will probably be ready for distribution early in March. The survey being made in the assessor’s office of taxable property along the proposed north and south highway has been completed, and figures turned in to the office of the prosecuting attorney. A meeting for further consideration of this project will be held in the very near future, and a report on progress made ready for publication. R.P. Burfield was the first person to pay Secretary Martin for a $5 subscription to the Commercial Club.
Indoor Golf Course To Hold Ladies Tournament – An interesting tournament “for ladies” will start Thursday night, January 22nd at the Indoor Golf Course. A list of prizes offered appear in this week’s advertisement of the course. This midget golf course is providing a lot of amusement for Island people. It is clean, attractive, a particular effort is being made to eliminate every element of rowdism. It is anticipated that the tournament for women will arouse as much interest as the one held for men.
Open House Meeting Of Smith Airplane Company – On Saturday evening the stockholders are invited to an open house meeting for the purpose of inspecting the airplane being built at S. LeCrone’s garage, 6th Avenue and South Grant street, Tacoma. In addition to the Smith airplane there will be a display of model aircrafts. This will be the last view of the ship until it is completed.
On Wednesday evening, while chopping wood, Ray DuBois had the misfortune to almost sever the thumb of his left hand. Dr. McMurray is making every effort to save the thumb, but the possibility appears rather doubtful.
John Metzenberg returned to work Wednesday after a siege with an infected hand. He reports that both he and Dr. McMurray had lots of fun during the three days he spent at home.
Vashon Island High School News – Assembly Program – In accordance with the request of the state there will be a program held in the high school auditorium on Friday, January 16, devoted to the subjects of temperance and good citizenship. The program will consist of patriotic songs by the group, recitations and speeches on the subjects designated. And there will be some important and interesting information about the annual.
Portage Notes – The scallop fishers are busy in the harbor. These elusive little shell fish are found only in a few places on the Sound, the passage west of the Island being one of the best known.
Vashon Grammar School Notes – On Monday Margeurite Thompson returned to school after a five weeks’ absence, while she suffered more from the quarantine than from a light attack of scarlet fever.
Maury Notes – To celebrate the new roof on Maury Hall, the Maury Women’s Club will give a get-together party. Games, songs, refreshments and fun will help you have a good time, so come out and help us celebrate.

January 22, 1931

Work Begun On The Magnolia Beach Wharf – Work was begun Wednesday morning on the construction of the Magnolia Beach Wharf. This work will take about three weeks, and when completed will leave Magnolia Beach with the excellent wharf that has been needed for a number of years. Tom Blum, in charge of the work, has secured new gear that will hasten the work considerably. Following the work at Magnolia repairs on the dock at Portage will be made. No definite information on the new North End dock has yet been available, since the new complications that have arisen within the past few days have played havoc with the plans of the county engineer’s office in general, and the department of docks and bridges in particular.
Stores To Close At 6:30 – Beginning Monday evening, January 26, Vashon merchants will resume the practice of closing their stores at 6:30. This will include the stores of C.G. Kimmel, F.A. Weiss, E.C. Thompson and the Vashon Hardware.
Club Members To Come From Cedar Falls – Three carloads of 4-H Club boys and girls will arrive Saturday evening from Cedar Falls to put on the initiation at the meeting Saturday evening at the Island Club, according to a long distance call received this (Thursday) morning from Mr. Svinth, in charge of this work.
To Organize Boys’ and Girls’ 4-H Club – Saturday evening, January 24th at 8 o’clock at the Vashon Community Hall, a meeting will be held of all the boys and girls and parents who are interested in the organization of the boys’ and girls’ 4-H Club. This meeting is being arranged by the local committee composed of the Messrs Wick, Towne, Ramquist and Johnson, in cooperation with C.A. Svinth, assistant county agricultural agent. The main object of the meeting is to definitely organize a boys’ and girls’ 4-H club on the Island. The committee has arranged for some very good entertainment as well as an educational feature in the showing of slides on boys and girls club work which have been obtained from the State College of Washington. What Club Work Is. Boys’ and girls’ club work is part of the national agricultural extension system. Through it, rural boys and girls 10 to 20 years of age, in school and out of school, are taught better agricultural and home-economics practice and the finer and more significant things of rural life. It builds men and women.
Fruit Growers Hold Their Annual Meeting – The Vashon Marketing Association held its annual meeting Wednesday evening, January 14, at the Island Club. There were about 60 members present and nine directors from the Puyallup and Sumner Association. C.L. Tjomsland and W. Zimmerman were unanimously re-elected directors for the next two years.
Experiment Station Heads Speak Here – The Vashon local of the Washington Co-op met at the Island Club Tuesday of this week. A good-sized and appreciative audience greeted the speakers of the evening, and much regret was expressed that every poultryman on Vashon-Maury Island could not have been present to hear the message delivered during the evening. Dr. J.W. Kalkus, head of the experimental station at Puyallup, spoke on the rapid growth of the poultry industry in the state and outlined the relationship between this industry and the experimental station. Through the activities of the station information is relayed to the poultry raisers through bulletins, short courses, field meetings, and personal contact.
Notice To The Public – The Magnolia Beach wharf will be closed for the period of three weeks required for reconstruction work.
Vashon Uses Much Water – At the annual meeting of the directors of District 19, which supplies Vashon and vicinity with H2O, it was figured that patrons had consumed during 1930 practically 6,358,870 gallons of water. With a busy laundry in our midst we may logically expect to use a good deal of water, but even so the amount used is surprisingly great.

January 29, 1931

Moving Office – Mr. W.D. Garvin is moving his real estate office this week across the street from his present location into his own building, and will occupy a part of the room now occupied by the Island Electric Shop.
Huge Island Bulbs On Display – Last Sunday’s Seattle Times contained a picture of two Island grown Henryl bulbs that almost hid the young lady with whom they were pictured. The original bulbs, from the Geo. Sheffield stock, were planted two years ago by Mrs. W.D. Covington and left undisturbed until last week. One measured 29, the other 31 inches in circumference, and tipped the scales at 13 and 14 pounds respectively. If anyone has a bigger lily story than this we would like to hear about it.
Good Progress On Shawnee Wharf – Work is progressing rapidly on the work being done in repairing the Shawnee wharf. Seven men, under the able direction of Tom Blum, county bridge engineer, assisted by a huge crane, are rapidly tearing up the old, and laying a new deck. The original piling put in 15 years ago are considered good for another 25 years. It is interesting, as one sees the work being done so rapidly, to contrast the difference in manner in which the original wharf was built, and the methods now being employed, and this change in only fifteen years. The crane, at a rental of $18 per day does the work of a large number of men. A scow load of lumber will be used in the work on the wharf, 95,000 feet of untreated lumber and 15,000 feet of treated. The latter, used for caps, 12 x 12, has been given especially heavy treatment of 8 pounds of creosote to the cubic foot. The deck planks and stringers are 4 x 12. The work on the Shawnee dock will be completed, within all probability, inside of two weeks, after which the repairs on the Portage wharf will be rushed to completion so that the men and equipment will be free to start at the new $30,000 dock at the North End.
North End Dock Delayed – Much concern has been expressed by Island residents over what seemed to be delay in starting the work on the new proposed dock at the North End. Last week county officials were notified by Maj. John S. Butler, of the U.S. War Department that a permit for the new dock would be denied until the matter of the present dock had been adjudicated. This lot, it developed, belonged to certain parties interested in the West Pass Transportation Company, and who held not only title to the lot, but to the tide lands as well. It is the opinion of the commissioners that no difficulty will be met in securing title to the property in question, and that work on the fine new dock will go ahead on schedule.
Speaking of mild weather, which everyone seems to be doing these days, last Saturday we received several sprays of winter jasmine, in full bloom, from the Sheffield farm. The warning about the shipping of pussy willows, issued by Mr. Heifner, is a bit late for the Island, as our local breed of pussies have about reached the catkin stage. The songs of the birds and frogs make one sure that spring is just around the corner. Ordinarily every time we write in praise of our weather it changes before the paper goes to press, but in this case we defy the weather man to get in any foul work.
Our Mistake – We regret the error made last week in speaking of the wharf now being repaired as the “Magnolia” wharf, however, Tom Blum is responsible for our error, and insists that that name is used on the county records in connection with the wharf in question. The Magnolia Beach wharf is, we are informed maintained by private individuals.
Pussy Willows Quarantined – We publish the following letter for the information of our readers: Seattle, Wash., January 26, 1931. To the Editor, Vashon Island News-Record, Vashon, Wash. The pussy willow season is with us again, as evidenced by the number of calls we receive in regard to shipping them, and I feel it would be of interest to your readers, and save them considerable trouble, if they were informed through your paper of the shipping regulations governing pussy willows. Both the United States Department of Agriculture and the State Department of Agriculture have quarantines prohibiting the shipment of pussy willows, so locally no pussy willows, under any condition, may be shipped out of Western Washington. Very truly yours, Lloyd D. Heifner, District Horticultural Inspector.
Has Purchased Sprayer – Mrs. J.H. Roberts has purchased a Bean power sprayer from the Poison Company, for use in her large pear orchard. This will be operated by W. Zimmerman, and will be available for use in other orchards on the Island. Mrs. Roberts feels that lack of proper spraying constitutes one of the worst menaces to the fruit growing on the Island. In her work with her own orchard she has worked out a practical and effective spraying method that will be published in an early number of the Island paper.

February 1931

February 5, 1931

To Hold Church Night – The Community Church will hold its first monthly church night next Sunday night at 8 o’clock at the Consolidated school building at Newport.
Appointed To Receive Red Cross Funds – The request for information as to the Red Cross Chairman for Vashon-Maury Island Rev. Mark Matthews, chairman for King County has requested the editor of the News-Record to act as temporary local chairman. Several have expressed a desire to contribute to the drought-relief fund, wishing to have the Island credited with their subscriptions. Such checks should be made payable to the Red Cross, mailed to this office. Receipts will be sent to the donors and acknowledgement made through the columns of this paper.
Automobile Wreck On Ellisport Hill – Sunday afternoon while driving down the Ellisport hill Worley Zimmerman and Nick Wilson met with an accident that terminated rather fortunately, although Nick is going about with his head swathed in bandages. Finding, after they had started down the hill, that his brakes were not working properly Mr. Zimmerman steered into the bank, and the truck was overturned. Both men suffered minor cuts and bruises. Had the car gone off of the other side of the road, into the canyon, they would probably not have escaped so easily.
New Speed Signs At Burton – After considerable work on the part of J.F. Shaw, chairman of the committee, the Burton Improvement Club has been instrumental in having stop and speed limit signs put up on the streets of Burton. These signs have been posted by order of the county commissioners, and if disregarded will result in trouble for drivers who doubt their authority. Mr. Shaw has in his possession all of the necessary authority from county officials to back up what they say, so from now on it will be well, while in Burton “to believe in signs.”
Island Children Inoculated – Last week a corps of nurses from the office of the county physician were on the Island giving toxin-antitoxin serum, for the prevention of diphtheria. Quite a number of the parents gave their written consent to this inoculation. While there is no epidemic of diphtheria either on the Island, or elsewhere in King County this preventative measure is being taken to prevent any future epidemic. The second injection of the serum will be administered some time this week.
Beall Greenhouse Making Experiments – The Beall Greenhouse Company, owning the largest plant of its kind west of the Mississippi river, is making some very modern experiments. Working in conjunction with Mr. Glen Cushing, a member of the staff of the research department of the Puget Sound Power & Light Company, by means of a carefully worked out lighting system, they are pioneering in forcing the blooming of certain flowers. It was after some diligent work on the part of Mr. Cushing that the proper method of supplanting old Sol was arrived at.

February 12, 1931

Good Work Done By Golf Members – The scenery certainly took on a new aspect over at the golf course last Saturday afternoon after a flying squad, composed of Tim Clark, Bert Stanley, Gus Bacchus, Vesta Coutts, Fred McMurray, Lewis Beall, Ed Harmeling and Joe Lindstrom had finished their labors. This valiant octet worked with such speed and efficiency that after reducing the rough to order, and retrieving many lost golf balls, (the only material reward for their diligence), they were still able to play nine holes before adjourning to Tim’s Place for a cup of that java that never fails to revivify. It is reported that among the rest of the membership of the golf club on Saturday there were a great many cases reported of sprained ankles, broken arms, fallen arches, not to mention the funeral of several grandmothers, all of which conspired to keep the sufferers away from the course.
New Venture For Island – It was announced this week that Miss Marjorie R. Stanley has taken up a line of work, new for the Island, that will permit her to remain at home, and give to the community an up-to-the-minute city service and convenience. Miss Stanley has accepted the local agency for the Wm. L. Davis & Sons of Tacoma and Seattle, dealers in draperies and house furnishings, and will be glad at any time to call at Island homes, and submit samples and ideas without obligation. Besides offering a new and needed service to the Island people Miss Stanley’s return here is indeed welcome to her many friends, and to the organization in which she is a capable and willing worker.
Commercial Club Notes – At a meeting of the executive committee of the Vashon Island Commercial Club at the Island Cottage Inn last Saturday evening many matters of Island interest were discussed, among them the purchase of considerable equipment for the high school, the pushing forward of plans for establishing and paving an extension of the highway to Southern Heights, and having a survey made to the old gulch road from Sheffield’s to Tahlequah and from Shawnee to the present Southern Heights road. The subject of permanent oiling of the roads was presented by a representative of a Seattle company that has constructed many such highways in the state with success. The perennial discussion of ferry schedules, as always, furnished topics for expression of various opinions, pro and con.
Tim’s Place is “all lit up” with an attractive new light advertising the kind of ice cream he has for sale.
During the past week trucks have been busy hauling logs from the Portage wharf where they were landed, to Vashon Heights where they are to be used in the building of a beautiful home. The logs were lifted from the water to the trucks by a huge crane operated by a gas engine. The crane is here to take up planking and stringers on the wharf, which will be replaced by new material.

February 19, 1931

Narrowly Escapes Drowning – What might have been a fatal accident occurred Monday evening when Emil Kuebel, an elderly man, fell from the Kingsbury wharf into the water. Mr. Kuebel was returning from Tacoma, and with his arms full of packages got off of the late Tacoma boat. With no lights on the wharf, and confused by the darkness after the bright lights of the boat he was unable to see his way. Broken railing failed to stop his fall as he stumbled to the edge of the wharf, falling into the water. He undoubtedly would have drowned had not the Kingsburys heard his cries and rescued him. County employees have been at work this week replacing the broken railing. It is reported that Mr. Kuebel has begun suit against the county for the injuries he received during the most unpleasant experience he ever hopes to suffer.
Horticulturist Visits Island – Lloyd Hefner, district horticulturist, made an official visit to the Island today (Thursday) and reports that the fruit trees are surprisingly far along, in many cases already budding.
Direct Ferry Service Sought – A movement is on foot to secure a ferry service from Dockton and Burton directly into Tacoma. It is believed by some that this route would be very feasible, and it is not anticipated that even though it is secured that it would in any way conflict with the present service at the South End. Some time ago the present owners of the line now operating from Burton to Tacoma secured a franchise to operate a ferry direct from Burton to Tacoma. This franchise has never been exercised, and only the passenger boat has continued to operate. The proposed ferry route has been suggested from Dockton and Burton, with the Tacoma terminal in Old Town. How practical this would be would have to be determined, although there seems to be certain favorable angles of the problem that deserve, and are receiving considerable consideration.
Cottage At Newport Entered And Robbed – On Saturday the caretaker of the cottage at Newport, just across the road from the Corbett and Robe homes, belonging to Dr. Rufus Eshelman, of Tacoma, discovered that it had been entered. Entry was made through a window in the side away from the road, the glass having been broken and the catch unfastened. It is thought that the home was entered Thursday or Friday night. Dr. Eshelman was at once notified, and when he arrived on Sunday, and partial order restored from the chaos in which the contents of drawers, closets, beds, etc. were left, it was determined that several exceptionally fine tools, a number of blankets, a radio loud speaker and a revolver were missing. Incensed by the raiding of unoccupied cottages that has been going on this winter unchecked, Dr. Eshelman expressed a determination to go into the matter thoroughly, and if humanly possible to determine the guilty parties.
Meeting For Men At Island Club – Next Monday evening at the Club House, the Men’s Christian Legion will hold their regular monthly supper-meeting at 6:45. Two fine speakers from Tacoma will be present and address the men. This is open to all men on the Island. The ladies are to serve one of their splendid dinners.
Feed Dealers Support House Bills 79-143 – Charles England, president of the Feed and Grain Dealers’ Association of Washington, was in Olympia two days the past week in the interests of new legislation that will benefit the poultry and dairy industries of this state. Mr. England is working specially for Senate Bill No. 79, known as the Oleomargarine Bill and House Bill No. 143, which is aimed to exclude Chinese eggs from this market.
Paving Problem Again Discussed – A meeting was held Wednesday evening of this week for a discussion of ways and means for securing a continuation of the paved highway from Center to the South End ferry landing. To a disinterested observer it would seem that the plan is more worthy of consideration than first appears. Although no work has been done to officially commence this work a preliminary survey has been made, the expense of which has been met by private subscription. After a survey of the assessed valuation, and the preparation of a set of maps by the county engineer’s office had been made the committee decided to discontinue their work for a time. The reason for this was a proposed bill to be presented to the legislature which would modify the Donahue law, under which it is hoped might be secured from the county in building such a road. This bill probably will not become a law in the present session of the legislature, and help from the county would new seem an assured possibility. Present at the meeting were Frank J. Barrett, district manager of the Portland Cement Association, and A. L. Badcon and C. P. Dexter, who have acted on several occasions as members of Donahue & Appraisal boards. These men told clearly and convincingly just what they thought of the entire population. They cited many instances in King County alone of the reduced cost of paving at the present time compared with the cost of our present North End pavement. This reduction is due in a large part to improved methods, but materials are also less that ten years ago. The cost to the owners of property abutting along the pavement would be appreciably less than it was to property owners who paid for the North End pavement. The proposed route is from Center to Burton, via the high school, Old Settlers’ monument, etc., to Judd Creek bridge, thence to Burton. Along the waterfront to Shawnee, then to the Southern Heights schoolhouse. This strip could not be paved, however, before a matter of a year after the road was definitely established. From the schoolhouse it would follow the present route to Sheffield’s, and from here there would probably be a new route, through the gulch to Tahlequah, which like the Shawnee section would be new road. Under the Donahue act 50 percent of the cost of such a road would be borne by the county, the other 50 percent by the property owners within a mile area on either side of the road. This provided for an equitable division of cost.
Portage Notes – A lively woods fire that on Friday endangered the Gandie, Starr and Erickson homes, and demanded several hours of hard work by the men in this community was started by a brush fire left over night on the Blakeney farm, just north and fanned by a north wind.
Portage Notes – Emil Kuebel narrowly escaped drowning Monday night, when he accidently walked off the Kingsbury dock after leaving the evening boat from Tacoma, in the dark. Had the Kingsburys not heard him calling and run to the rescue, he quite surely would have drowned, as he was exhausted when taken from the water.
People’s Forum – In advocating a paved highway from Center to Tahlequah, a body of courageous citizens have undertaken a great project. Paved roads are a boon to travelers, aren’t they? What a relief when, traveling north from Burton, we reach the dustless ribbon of concrete highway. The proposal to pave the approximately eight miles of road from Center to Tahlequah is a magnificent plan, involving only the small sum of one hundred and fifty thousand of our hard earned dollars. Poof! A mere bagatelle! But, we cautiously ask, why the pavement from Burton to Tahlequah? After a Scotchy squint at the scheme, our stupidity becomes at once apparent, for we are compelled to admit that we cannot see even one good reason for paving the last named stretch that would in any way offset the tremendous cost involved, which would be in excess of one hundred thousand dollars. From Burton to Eleventh and Broadway in Tacoma is about nine miles. From the Pt. Defiance ferry landing to Eleventh and Broadway is about nine miles! From Burton to Pt. Defiance via the South End road and ferry is about nine miles, an approximate total of eighteen miles! Why, (we are really quite dull), favor a route that involves nine miles of extra travel and a consequent loss of time and money? The cost of such a piece of paved highway passing, as it does, through a stretch of worthless country, is money thrown away when, if we consider the business center of Tacoma as our objective, that objective can be reached by a shorter, quicker, and less expensive route, namely a direct ferry from Burton to Tacoma. Such a route would reduce the time ten minutes or more, depending upon the method of travel employed, and greatly reduce the cost. It is maintained that the shortest ferry crossing will attract the greatest amount of traffic but we humbly believe that the quickest route will be the more popular. Why hasn’t the South End with its ferry system developed in the last ten years? Aha! I see that you know the answer to that one. And we all know that it will never develop until some bright person discovers a use for the sand and gravel heaps that border the South End road, or until the egg growing business stages a mighty upward swing. Burton is dying a slow and peaceful death and in a few sleepy years can be quietly laid away in her grave. Why? Because the ferry crossing is in the wrong place. Make that like run from Burton to Old Town and in a few years the hundred vacant waterfront lots on Quartermaster Harbor will be occupied as well as the five hundred acres of virgin soil that lie within a radius of one mile from the Burton dock. A paved road joining the pavement from Center to Burton at the Old Settlers’ Monument at Quartermaster and running past the golf course to Dockton would be of far greater value to the Island, wouldn’t it Mr. Golf Fan and Mr. Docktonite? By all means pave the road from Center to Burton but let’s forget the $100,000 White Elephant Section for the time being, and concentrate on the Burton to Tacoma ferry line instead. How about it? – Kenneth Van House.
Mr. Bruce Hall is building a good-sized barn for his father, C.W. Hall, at Southern Heights, who is branching out in the hog raising business, which should be a paying industry.
Ellisport Items – Mr. and Mrs. W. Coy Meredith and Coy, Jr., of Burton, Mrs. Robbins and daughter of Tacoma, and Mr. and Mrs. Cronander of Vashon were among those who enjoyed Sunday dinner at the Island Cottage Inn. Mrs. Evans’ Sunday dinners many almost be classed amonth the “habit-forming drugs” by now, as those who come once become regular patrons.
Ellisport Items – Mr. and Mrs. George W. Bailey entertained at dinner last Tuesday with that gracious hospitality for which they are famous. The guests were Mr. and Mrs. W.C. Cliff, Mrs. O.L. Evans, Mr. Joe S. Egbert, Mrs. H.C. Hills and Mrs. D.E. Lesh. Roses, violets, grape hyacinths and other lovely flowers from their own garden testified to the mildness of our winter and Mr. Bailey’s skill as a gardener.
Ellisport is rejoicing in greatly improved streets. The very narrow road to the Circle has been widened, leveled and straightened. Trees have been cut, and stumps removed, so that it is now possible to pass at any point. Mr. Ruhlen and his capable assistants have made some speedy and splendid changes which are much appreciated.

February 26, 1931

To Serve On Jury – Two Islanders, Ralph Towne and S.H. Clements will spend the next two months in Seattle on jury duty. During Mr. Towne’s absence his wife will be in charge of their store at Colvos.
Attends Press Meeting – On Saturday, Agnes L. Smock attended a group meeting of the Press Association, held in the office of the South Tacoma Star. Editors present were from the weekly newspapers of Kitsap, Pierce and King counties. After a business session in South Tacoma the group had dinner at the Winthrop, then spent the greater part of the evening in discussion of problems of the fraternity. Newspaper folk, like others in business, all seem to have common difficulties to solve.
People’s Forum – Editor: In answer to Kenneth Van House’s article of last week’s issue, I beg to submit the following: When a representative body of citizens formulate a progressive plan to remedy a bad condition and bring out a plan of constructive nature, there is usually some one ready to throw a monkey wrench into the machinery. There are but few people on the Island but recognize the fact that a paved road from the north to the south of the Island would do more to build up the Island in the shortest time. There is also always a small minority that take a selfish view and see no further than their own front dooryard. It is a well-known fact that the successful ferries are those of the shortest water routes and the consequently lower fares, even then experience has proven that they did not do all that was expected of them until the approach was paved. It did not take long for the North End to realize this, nor long to get this pavement. Your attack on the south half of the Island needs no defense. In my “sand and gravel” ranch I have had in the past one of the best acres of strawberries ever on Vashon Island, and I now have a young cherry orchard second to none. But why mention that? I doubt if there is one in twenty home-owners on the Island depending wholly on the products of the soil. The future of the Island lies more in fine building spots, good houses, fine views, rock gardens, sunshine, good health and a cheerful disposition. My mail comes to Burton and the section you condemn is part of its school district and I am taking this opportunity to say I see nothing the matter with Burton. If it is “slowly dying” as you say why didn’t you try to save it when the paved road was built on the North End. It may need a tonic, as all towns with dirt roads do. In this day and age a paved road is the tonic indicated. If you had advocated building even a half mile of paved road on any part of the Island I would have agreed with you, but when you so strongly condemn one section of the Island and cater to another section for support of your project I am inclined to think either you or your project is sick, and not your home town. – Fred G. Pugh.
Burton News Items – J.F. Shaw is meeting with much success in getting signers to the petition asking to have the paved road to continue from Center down through Burton and on to Tahlequah. He says there is practically no opposition. Almost every one feels it should have been done some years ago when the other pavement went in.
Fifteen Camp-fire girls were over from Seattle for the week end, planting native trees at Camp Sealth. One thousand were set out under the supervision of two boys from the forestry division of the State University.
Notice has been received from the postal department at Washington stating that the Lisabeula post office will be discontinued February 28, 1931, and all mail addressed to it will be received, delivered and accounted for at the Burton post office.
A marked improvement has been made in the road south from Portage, where it has been regarded and widened.
At Colvos Community Hall – Colvos Community Hall is again coming into use. This time it will echo with the old time preaching, of an up-to-date message, by O.E. Sandness. First meeting is announced for Tuesday night. Stereoptican slides will be used from time to time. All are welcome.
Carl Wick is adding to the equipment of the Happy Day Hatchery five new brooders, each with a capacity of 800 baby chicks.
It’s and ill wind that blows nobody good, likewise a mighty poor rain that doesn’t clean something up, and the paved street of Vashon surely looks a lot better since the dust, and refuse that had accumulated has been washed away by the recent floods.
Island To Have Kindergarten – Another forward step in the educational life of the Island will be inaugurated March 9th, when Mrs. Kenneth Van House will open a modern up-to-the-minute nursery school in the Cottage at Burton. The Kiddie College, as it will be called, will be conducted along the same lines as laid down by the foremost educators of the pre-school child who have proved conclusively that the little ones’ mental and physical growth can be greatly stimulated by carefully conducted plays, games, songs, constructive activities, excursions and stories. The Kiddie College will be open three mornings each week.
Horticultural Center – Frank Kingsbury is now engaged in taking a horticultural census of Vashon-Maury Island. This is part of a program being followed by the state department of agriculture. The County Horticulturist requests the people of the Island assist by giving a complete report of their orchards, berry fields, etc.

March 1931
March 5, 1931

J.A. McKinnon Makes Good Pre-Election Promise – According to the communication received by this office on Saturday from Rep. J.A. McKinnon he is making good his pre-election promise to Vashon Island to secure funds for better road conditions on the Island, and has introduced the Bill which follows: House Bill No. 343 – Read first time February 21, 1931, ordered printed and referred to Committee on Roads and Bridges. An Act. Making an appropriation for the location, right of way, engineering, construction and/or paving of a public highway on Vashon Island. Be it enacted by the Legislature of the State of Washington: Section 1. For the purpose of location, right of way, engineering, construction and/or paving of a public highway, or the character and standard of construction of permanent highways, as provided by law, beginning at the ferry landing at the northerly end of Vashon Island; thence southerly by the most feasible route to the ferry landing at the south end of Vashon Island; there is hereby appropriated from the motor vehicle fund in the state treasury, to be expended under the direction of the director of highways, the sum of one hundred thousand dollars ($100,000), or so much thereof as may be necessary.
The 4-H Sewing Club of Vashon organized February 9th. At this time seven enrolled: Betty Copestick, Donna and Betty Lee, Margaret Hoshi, Elizabeth and Ruth Heydine and Geneva Edison. Since then nine more have joined. They adopted the name of the “Shamrock Club”.
4-H Club Members Are Working Hard – A group of 4-H Club workers visited the Island last Saturday and completed the organization work begun several weeks ago. Clarence Svinth, assistant county agent visited each of the three groups organized. The boys adopted the name of the Vashon Island Agricultural Club. Their projects are to be gardening, poultry, pigeon, calf and pig raising. While there were only seven boys present on Saturday a considerable number of cards have been signed and turned in, and it is anticipated that there will be enough members to form two groups.
Two Candidates At Center – Inadvertently an omission was made from the candidates for school director published last week. Instead of only one candidate at Center Otto Therkelsen’s name appears on the ballot as well as Frances Sherman.
Found – An Optimist – It is encouraging in these days of wailing over conditions in the poultry business to know that someone is optimistic enough to go in to the business, not out of it. Ole Thorsen has decided after ventures elsewhere that Vashon Island is a pretty good place after all, and is building a chicken house, 20 x 60 on his property on the West Side. He is purchasing the lumber through the Bacchus Lumber Company.
Ferry Runs Into Dock – On Tuesday the ferry “Vashon” scenting the odors of the sea up on Railroad Avenue failed to make the accustomed stop at the dock. However, it did not continue far until it realized it was tampering with Port of Seattle property, and came to an abrupt stop. During the time the slip was being repaired the Vashon made the regular landings at the Colman dock.
Oleomargarine Bill Passes Both Houses of Legislature – Senate Bill 79 known as the Oleomargarine Bill, passed the House of Representatives at Olympia, February 25th by a majority of 76 to 20. The passage of this act by the House puts it up to the governor for final approval, since it had already passed the Senate. This bill briefly places a tax of 15 cents per pound on all butter substitutes sold in the state of Washington and was introduced in the senate by a group of senators, twenty-two in number, led by Senator Knutzen of Skagit county. Designed primarily to aid the dairy industry of the state, the bill also has decidedly important revenue feature and is hoped to prove effective in increasing state revenues. It carries with it a so-called “emergency clause” which by declaring that the act is past in response to an emergency precludes a referendum of the people.
Burton News Items – The S.S. Vashona is back on the Quartermaster run again, much to the satisfaction of passengers who make daily trips to the city.
Work has been finished on the Portage dock and the crew has repaired the wharves of Colvos, Cove and Lisabeula. Everyone is anxiously waiting developments in the North End dock situation.
Matt Johnson is hobbling about on crutches, the victim of a misplaced blow from an ax that cut his right foot badly. Several sutures were required to close the wound, but Dr. McMurray assures Mr. Johnson that in a short time he will be as good as new.
Maury Notes – Mr. and Mrs. Harry Hazel were delightfully surprised Saturday evening when their son Roy, a machinist’s mate in the U.S. Navy stationed at San Diego, dropped in to pay them a visit.

March 12, 1931

Form New Water Company At Heights – Papers have been filed for the incorporation of the Heights Water Corporation, recently formed at the North End. The incorporators and directors of this new company are Royce Wise, president; Howard Hansen, vice-president and treasurer; J.G. Bennett, secretary; L.C. Beall, Jr., and Chas. D. Taylor. The new company has absorbed the old company that has operated for a number of years. Alex Stewart, with considerable experience gained through his valuable work in connection with the three other community water districts on the Island has been secured as attorney for the new company. Bids will be let April 1st for the construction of a 20,000 gallon wood tank; for the supplying and laying of 4500 feet of 5 ½ inch water main; 2500 feet of 4 inch main; 5100 feet of 3 inch main; and 2400 feet of 2 inch main. Provision is being made for the accommodation of several hundred families. The tank will probably be located on Puget Mill property near the Matt Johnson ranch.
Vashon Night School Pupils Give Party – On Monday evening 80 pupils, members of night school classes, and guests celebrated the close of the first, and very successful, session of night school held on Vashon Island. The good spirit that prevailed was indicative of the spirit of cooperation that has been evidenced through the entire six weeks’ term. At the close of this part of the program Edson pictures were presented to the night school teachers, Miss O’Mahoney, Mr. Ackley, Mr. Lewis and Mr. Robertson.
School Election Hotly Contested At Cove – In the Columbia district a record vote was polled, the election being hotly contested. More votes were cast at this election in that district than have ever been cast at a presidential election. Of the 167 votes cast, C.August Peterson, was re-elected by the narrow margin of one vote. The Lisabeula district also polled a heavy vote. The issue which aroused the unusual interest was the proposed consolidation with District 211. The result was 36 votes against consolidation, while 26 voted favorably. This is the second time within a year that the proposed has been voted down by the Lisabeula people. In the Center district, with two candidates for director Otto Therkelsen was elected.
Fire At Dockton – Late Saturday night fire, probably of an incendiary nature, destroyed the shed, and salmon and sardine nets belonging to Mitchel Planchard, of Dockton. The loss of approximately $6,000 was partially covered by insurance. No clue could be found as to the origin as the shed is located on the water front, and the fire was first seen by a young man living some distance up the hill. The loss of Mr. Planchard is serious coming at this season when the nets will so soon be needed.
$65,000 Granted for Island Road Fund – Word was received by Mr. E.H. Miller this (Thursday) morning from Olympia that in the close of business of this session the House and Senate, in joint session voted in favor of bill providing for $65,000 for the grading of a highway from Center south to Tahlequah, the exact location to be decided upon. This money is to come from the permanent highway fund.
Purchases Stock Of Local Hatchery – A concrete example of their faith in the poultry industry on Vashon Island was evidenced by a transaction recently completed between England & Petersen and the Vashon Island Co-Operative Hatchery, whereby the former will purchase the surplus of the latter. In this manner breeders will be given an opportunity to dispose of their eggs, the hatchery will be kept operating for possibly six weeks longer than would otherwise have been possible, and a supply of fine pullets will be available to poultry men next fall who are now financially unable to purchase and raise baby chicks. These chicks supplied by England & Petersen will be raised by Alfred Norkett in his large brooder plant in Paradise Valley, and sold to customers at practically the cost of raising.
High School Notes – Night School Comes to a Close – Monday night, March 9th, the pupils of the night school of the just completed six weeks term had a party in the high school gym. As the classes proved so successful, preparations are being made for another term for the coming fall. A decided interest has been maintained in the class in American citizenship. Of the seven students enrolled four have completed the course, applied for their final papers and will soon appear before Mr. Smith, commissioner of immigration at the Federal Building in Seattle, who will assist them in becoming full-fledged citizens. If the night school has accomplished nothing more than afford this group an opportunity to prepare for citizenship its organization would have been fully justified.

March 19, 1931

Governor Hartley To Sign Road Bill – Word received here this week indicated that beyond doubt Gov. Hartley would sign the bill giving to Vashon Island $60,000 for the improvement of the highway south of Center. This, together with the $10,000 already apportioned to this section by the county will be a tidy sum with which to begin the work of giving to the South End the roads they have waited so long for. The exact location of the road will be decided by the state engineering department.
Happy Day Hatchery Growing – One of the new businesses which has located on the Island in comparatively recent years is the Happy Day Hatchery operating on the West Side near Colvos. Mr. Wick, the owner, has recently added a battery of five brooders. These are used in developing the chicks taken out of the incubators. These chicks are kept at the plant on the West Side until old enough to be taken out of the brooders, and are then transferred to the ranch recently purchased by Mr. Wick, a part of the original Highland Park poultry ranch. In this manner the owner is developing the sale of pullets as well as continuing the splendid business of selling day-old chicks.
Vashon Island May Secure Field Station – According to letters recently received by Alex Stewart from Rep. Lin H. Hadley consideration is being given by the U.S. Bureau of Plant Industry of the Department of Agriculture to the establishment on Vashon Island of a field station for bulb investigation. This would be, on a small scale similar to the farm at Bellingham conducted by the government. Soil conditions on the Island make possible the successful growing of lilies to a degree impossible on the Bellingham farm. This fact has led to extensive investigation by various representatives from the government experiment farm at Bellingham, and on their reports the wisdom of such a farm on the Island for the growing of lilies has been determined.
Government Training Ship, No. 57, was in Quartermaster harbor anchored at Burton, all day Sunday.
Depredations along our street Sunday night, in the wrecking of auto signs, motor theft, and destruction of church property, resulted in nothing being done so far, but “the worm will turn” only it takes some time to roll over!
How Many Poets Has The Island? – A plan is on foot whereby we are going to find out just how many honest-to-goodness poets are on Vashon Island. Full details will be published in this paper next week of how we are going to find out just how many there are. And not only that, it’s going to be pleasant and profitable to be among the elect. What could be more natural than for poets to burst into verse with the coming of spring (if it isn’t already here?) And what could be a better subject than “The Mountain From Our Island?” Get your pencils sharpened, your pen filled up or your typewriter oiled, and let’s get ready for a real contest.
Maury Notes – Herbert McPherson suffered a broken leg Friday when hit by a large rock, while blasting stumps on his place at Mileta. Curtis Miller is ably taking his place at the wheel of the school bus, until he is able to be about again.
Dockton News – Capt. M. Planchard, of the boat “Good Partner” is visiting his relatives and friends here for a few days.

March 26, 1931

Commercial Meeting Largely Attended – Mr. Leslie Coffin, district manager of the P.S.P. & L. Company was present and after a few remarks in regard to the work being carried on in his district announced that this year’s budget provided for a new cable for Vashon Island which is now being manufactured. This cable will insure against our being without lights in case the one now in use should break.
$60,000 For South End Road Is Safe – True to his word given last week Governor Hartley left the $60,000 for Vashon Island roads in the highway bill which was signed late Tuesday, although various other appropriations were slashed. This is the largest amount that has ever been appropriated for roads on the South End of the Island, and the first state aid that the Island has ever received.
A Voice From Below – Now that all you folks on earth have established your other good habits for 1931 why not be kind to me and my historical progenitor and call me by my correct name? You cause worry in a hurry when you falsely call me Murray, for I rhyme with Annie Laurie and you ought to call me Maury Island! (Editor Note – Name on request, if there is any reader that fails to recognize the writer of the above. Our phone number is Red 821.)
At court proceedings last week at Judge Armbruster’s court, three people were arrested on bench warrants for delinquency in paying fines. Saturday night Harold Peterson was arrested for violating speed laws in driving through Burton and fined five dollars and costs, amounting to seven dollars and seventy-five cents.
Joe and Arthur Hofmeister were brought before Judge Armbruster’s court Wednesday night and were fined for destroying property and were given a suspended sentence.
Vashon is taking on the airs of a real city, and has its first Neon light, over the door of the Vashon Island Café.

April 1931

April 2, 1931

Interest Shown In Poem Contest – Various inquiries have come to the office in regard to the poem contest to be held this month, sponsored by the News-Record. Only a partial list of prizes are available at this time so this phase of the contest must remain a mystery until our next issue. We can, however, state definitely that for the best poem, submitted each week the writer will receive a check for one dollar. The judges are to be two men, fully qualified to pass on the merits of any “sweet singer” of the Island, Mr. Jackson Corbet, editor of the Marine Digest, and his neighbor, Mr. L.S. Robe. The reward for the two best poems submitted during April are to be two large, hand-colored pictures donated by Norman Edson.
Virginia V Has New Schedule – According to a letter received this week from Capt. Christensen, of the West Pass Transportation Company the Virginia V, which begins her summer schedule next Sunday, April 5th will not make the customary Saturday night trip from Point Defiance to Seattle, via West Pass points. The boat will leave Tacoma on Sunday mornings from municipal dock, going direct to Seattle via the East Pass. Capt. Christensen hopes in this manner to provide an enlarged service that will give the people of Tacoma, who do not care to drive their cars a chance to spend Sunday in Seattle. This will offer a partial substitute for the boat service between the two cities now discontinued.
Install New Gas Tank – This week England & Petersen installed a gas tank of 10,000 gallon capacity, in the rear of their Vashon plant. The work was done by their own employees. At the request of the firm an insurance inspector came to the Island to pass on the installation of the tank, and reported that it complied with all requirements, and would have no effect on insurance rates now in force. The tank was filled this week with a supply of gasoline that will last England & Petersen, and the Vashon Auto Freight about three months.
Vashon Business Men Will Entertain Editors – Last Saturday evening the staff of the News-Record attended a meeting of the King, Kitsap, Pierce group of the Washington Press Association, held at the Wilsonian in Seattle, guests of the University District Herald. Matters of general interest to newspaper folk were discussed during the evening. An invitation, extended by Mrs. Smock, in behalf of the Vashon Business Men’s Club and the News-Record, to the members of the Association to hold their April meeting on the Island was gladly accepted. Realizing that by entertaining practically every weekly editor of this part of the state the Island will receive a lot of wholesome publicity the business men of the village of Vashon will entertain the group with an afternoon of sightseeing and golf, topped off with a good country dinner at the Vashon Cottage Inn of Ellisport.
Vashon Island Young People’s Union To Meet – The Union will meet at the Island Club at Vashon Thursday evening, April 9, at 7:45. Miss Janet Kay of Seattle will speak. All young people are especially invited to be present as Miss Kay, who is an active worker among young people, has something of special interest for the young people of Vashon Island.
Visiting Girls Are Badly Frightened – Last Sunday while on a hike over the Island a party of Campfire girls, chaperoned by one of the instructors from Camp Sealth, were badly frightened by a party of boys driving one of the cars of the local transportation company. The girls were splashed with mud, and terrified by the remarks of the boys to such an extent that they stopped another car to ask help. In stopping suddenly to avoid hurting the frightened girls the driver had no chance to warn the car behind him that he was stopping, and it was forced into the ditch. The man reporting the incident to the paper was unable to definitely give the names of the occupants of the Lincoln car.
D.C. Slater Gets Contract – At a meeting held last night the North End water district awarded the contract for the installation of the new system to D.S. Slater at a figure of approximately $9,000. This will be the fourth Island system that Mr. Slater has installed. Coming just as we go to press we are unable to give details of the work. Mr. Slater was on the Island only a few hours, returning this morning to Everett, where he is installing the water system of a golf course being built there.
Fire At Covey Greenhouse – On Saturday evening fire broke out in the boiler room of the Covey Greenhouse northeast of Vashon. With the oil tank located in close proximity to the boiler it was impossible to extinguish the fire until it had burned itself out, and destroyed practically the entire interior of the room.
Petty Thievery Goes Unchecked – Much irritation is being caused to car owners by the petty thievery that goes on unchecked. Last week the oil was stolen from the car of Mrs. Angenette Lee, with the result that a bearing was burned out before the loss was discovered. A few nights later her brother, Don Parker, suffered the theft of the muffler from his Ford. The loss of the muffler was bad enough, but the shock of his nerves when he started his car was a good deal worse. Mr. Parker made the suggestion that if those who are doing the stealing had the proper consideration for their victims that they would leave in the cars they rob a little memorandum of what they have taken which would help a lot. Recently Fielder Beall left his car at the North End dock while attending a basketball game, and when he returned he discovered the loss of his windshield, frame and all. A car that had been sporting a cracked windshield that same evening appeared with a perfectly good one the following morning. From all reports there is a twelve-month open season on county and privately owned trucks and tractors, and if they are parked in the open with gas or oil it is a safe bet that they will be drained in the morning. Much approval is being expressed of the Burton correspondent for the fair and fearless manner in which she is reporting the names of the culprits in that village. The News-Record has refrained from airing the names of our young people who get into trouble, and in this manner have been accessory to the crime, but from now on we will forsake that policy and report the facts in any case that there is evidence of guilt. In several instances, when we have attempted to get facts in the case, we have been informed that in giving publicity we would defeat the efforts of our local deputy sheriff in gathering evidence. We are not belittling the effort of Mr. Shattuck in making the Island a law-abiding place, but we do feel that in protecting our young people by a policy of silence we are doing them a wrong. At Burton Judge Armbruster is doing the community a real favor in reporting to the Burton correspondent specific cases of law violation. In like manner we feel that the News-Record can do no less than to give publicity to any cases reported from other parts of the Island.
Commissioners Consent To Ferry Schedule Change – We understand that a brief item in a late edition of the P-I of this (Thursday) morning states that yesterday the board of county commissioners acceded to the request of the Kitsap County Transportation Company in discontinuing the ferry runs into the Marion Street dock.
Burton News Items – Burton Hotel property is being renovated, the rooms are recalsomined, new furniture moved in, and the outside of building will be painted in time for the summer business.
Burton News Items - Ten years ago Saturday, Mr. and Mrs. J.H. Williams started in the grocery business in Burton. The little store is always kept neat and attractive as well as the home across the street, due to the indefatigable rustle of the owners. And they have prospered, though they will admit of only making a “living.”
Burton News Notes – After administering good advice and justice to the boys who broke glass out of the Garvin and Leonard houses and the pavilion on the beach, the parents of the Neilson and Little boys immediately repaired the damages and will see that that kind of sport will not be indulged in again.
The Report of the Financial Condition of the Vashon State Bank, at the close of business on the 25th day of March, 1931, showed assets totaling $311,903.85.
Dr. V.C. Coutts was a Tacoma visitor Tuesday evening. He returned on a late ferry, although some of his fellow townsmen and patients accused him of doing otherwise. We all apologize.
High School Notes – Last Friday the Gilder Club met to discuss the possibilities of locations for the taking off and landing of the glider planes. The following committee was appointed by Mr. Robertson to look into this matter: Champ Nelson chairman, Wilber Smith and Ralph Jensen. Mr. Robertson is gathering the ideas of other high school glider clubs.
High School Notes – The two debate clubs have selected teams to compete in an inter-club debate. The question is “Resolved: that the high school course should be reduced in length to three years.” Teams are: Phil Green, Dick Slagle and Tucky Smith; Marcia Forbes, Ila Besonen and Louis Schmidt.
Community Organization Elect New Officers For Year – Recently the Cove Community Hall Society held their annual election of officers and elected C.J. Ramquist, president; W.V. Crosier, vice-president; B.A. Hunt, treasurer; C.A. Renouf, secretary; Nellie Doyle, W.W. Bruner and D.S. Siegrist, trustees.
Omitted Last Week – We regret very greatly the omission of the following item from the News-Record of last week. Mrs. Thompson sent the copy in early in the week, and in some unexplainable manner, after it had been set up and proofread it was accidentally set aside with type to be held over for this week’s paper. Mrs. Thompson is hereby absolved from all charges of being anything but up-to-the-minute in sending her report in, and we take all of the blame for the delay. – The regular meeting of the Portage Orthopedic Auxiliary was held at the home of Mrs. A.D. Kingsbury on Friday, March 20th. Seventeen members including the hostess were present. Also as guest of honor Mrs. Geo. Davis (Fanny Kingsbury) who contributed much to the pleasure of the gathering. The return of Mrs. M.L. Hanson after many weeks of absence, because of her recent very serious illness, was a matter of rejoicing to everyone.
Classified Advertising – Learn At Home – Short snappy lessons in short ferry poker by mail, apply Vashon Island Poker Players, Inc., Box 923, Vashon Island News-Record. 25tf

April 9, 1931

Securing Funds For Island Library – In an effort to secure funds for the operation of the library they maintain at Burton a committee of the Vashon Island Women’s Club, in conjunction with the local paper have begun a campaign which will furnish a little of the money necessary to carry on their good work. A partial list of those who are helping by paying their subscriptions to the ladies are Mrs. L.S. Robe, Mrs. Jas. Mattson, Mrs. E. Buckness, Mrs. R.W. McKinstry, Mrs. Netta Jones, Mrs. Frank Carlson and Mrs. Frank Harmeling. Mrs. Carlson, showing the right spirit toward the good work, presented Miss Marjorie Stanley with a check for her subscription, even though it was not due for several months.
Mixed Foursome Is Scheduled For Sunday – Lots of fun is anticipated next Sunday on the golf course when five mixed foursomes will compete. No one plays with his or her own wife or husband, so there will be little opportunity for postmortems, even though friendships may be strained to the breaking point. This will be, indeed, a severe testing of the chivalry of all men entering the tournament. Each pair of the foursome is allowed only one ball each, men and women alternating strokes, the men to tee off. After the first nine holes the players will have dinner at Watseka Lodge, after which they will finish the other nine holes. The foursomes are as follows: Carol Bacchus and Chas. Coutts, Shirley Coutts and Gus Bacchus; Opal Cronander and John Metzenberg, Eva Metzenberg and Fred McMurray; Mrs. Wallace Beall and E.H. Miller, Mrs. E.H. Miller and Tim Clark; Mrs. Steeples and Neal Flenner, Mrs. Flenner and Bert Stanley; Mary Clark and Howard Hansen, Bernice Hansen and Joe Lindstrom. In the last game of the tournament sponsored by the Vashon Business Men’s Club played off last Sunday John Metzenberg won from Neal Flenner.
Madrona Lodge Now Under New Management – Madrona Lodge has been leased by the owner, Mrs. Flora Pyle, after many seasons of successful operation. It has been taken over by Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Robinson, and their son, of Seattle. They expect to be ready for guests by next week. Their son, Mr. Bert Hines, who will be associated with them is at present night manager of the Olympic, in which capacity he has served for the past two years. Mr. and Mrs. Robinson are both experienced hotel people, and fully qualified to take care of the regular service, as well as parties and banquets.
Dr. Frank H. Grandy Adds Pulmotor To Office – During the past week, Dr. Frank H. Grandy, has added to the equipment of his Vashon office a portable gas machine, which can also be converted into a pulmotor. It is obvious how necessary a pulmotor is to any community on the Sound. While the Island has had very few drownings in the past it is hard to prophesy as to the future. Pulmotors are used also to resuscitate patients suffering from carbon monoxide poisoning from automobiles; from gas-stove asphyxiation and to revive the new born child. The machine is used primarily for gas anesthesia, particularly useful in cases of minor surgery, obstetrics, reduction of fractures, etc., where only a short period of anesthesia is required. Dr. Grandy states that he will keep the machine in his Vashon office, that it may be more centrally located to all parts of the Island.
Protest Ferry Schedule – A number of Island representatives left this morning for Olympia to enter for formal protest before the Department of Public Works, protesting against the proposed action of the ferry company in disbanding entirely the ferry run to Marion Street, and using a passenger boat considered entirely inadequate. Among the members of the party were A.T. Bacchus, Wallace Beall, Alex Stewart, Dr. F.H. Grandy, W.D. Clark, Chas. England and E.H. Miller.
A Correction – We regret that in one of our articles in last week’s issue stated that the car involved in an episode with Campfire girls some days ago was the property of a local transportation company, afterwards we were informed that the car was individually owned, and not the property of the transportation company.
Island Concerned Publishes Catalog – An industry, much out of the ordinary, is being developed on the North End of the Island at the Twickenham Estate. It is the commercial rearing of gold fish, the outgrowth of a beginning made four years ago in the lily ponds developed by Mr. E.H. Moy for his own pleasure. His success along these lines caused his friends to urge him to go into raising gold fish on a larger scale, and now the plant that has been developed consists of twenty-five ponds, varying in size from 500 gallon concrete ponds to natural pools of about two acres, also concrete pools under glass, aquariums and other up-to-date equipment for handling gold fish and supplies. Recently a catalog was published which is supposedly the only exclusive gold fish catalog ever published. It not only contains lists and prices of the many varieties of fish for sale, but it contains also many illustrations, both in color and in black and white, as well as information concerning water plants, aquariums, ornaments and supplies which the Twickenham Estate Water Gardens offer for sale. Twickenham Estate, since becoming the property of Mr. Moy has been developed until it is one of the beauty spots of the Island. Since coming to the Island he has made an investment of about $100,000 in his various branches which embrace fox pens, pigeon lofts, fish ponds, etc., on a large scale, as well as a well equipped printing plant which takes care of the large business of the Reliance Printing Company.
Car At Vashon Heights Damaged By Fire – On Tuesday afternoon while Mrs. Howard Hansen was starting her car in front of their garage at the Heights it caught afire in some manner. She phoned to Mr. Hansen at the bank. Securing the chemical kit of extinguishers belonging to the Vashon fire department he rushed to his home and In a short time the flames were extinguished. The car suffered only a minimum amount of damage.
Epworth League Meeting – The Cove M.E. young people will hold an especially interesting meeting at the 6:30 Epworth League hour next Sunday. Several young people from Seattle will furnish the program.
Portage Notes – On Tuesday evening a slide of earth and roots from the hill north of Portage almost closed the road near the dock, but was removed early Wednesday by the road crew. This is the first earth slide on that road in many years.
Portage Notes – The Standard Oil Co. is building a wire cage on the dock for their supply of oil barrels, etc.
Burton News Items – W.S. Bentley’s gentle voice will not be heard in these parts for a while, having taken the job of engineering the Tug “Pioneer” in Port Gamble waters.
Burton News Items – At last our Island has something that we have been greatly in need of these many years. Dr. Grandy has lately installed in his office an equipment for administering gas anesthesia which is particularly valuable because it can be used as a pulmotor.
School Board elections were held Saturday night in the high school. Mr. Sigrist was elected chairman and Mr. Stone as clerk. The board is virtually the same except that Mr. George Thompson represents the Center district instead of Mr. Hearst. The board is: Mr. Sigrist of Cove; Mr. Thompson, Center; Mr. Stone, Burton South End; Mr. Merry, Maury; Mrs. Covey, Vashon and Mr. Brink, Lisabeula.
As soon as the decision of the Department of Public Works is made public, the various requests for information regarding the lessons in short poker playing will be answered by the authority who inserted the little ad last week.

April 16, 1931

Four Island Boys Arrested Monday – On Monday afternoon Deputy Sheriff Shattuck picked up Don and Winston Smith at Magnolia Beach on the supposition that they were the ones involved in the rifling of cottages that has been going on all winter around Burton. The boys were taken before Judge Armbruster and after two hours of grilling confessed not only that they were guilty as charged, but also admitted that they, together with Carl Esterle and “Kewpie” Morrow were the ones who had perpetrated the hold-up at Dockton several weeks ago. On this occasion one of the boys slipped into the Dockton Community Hall and after turning off the lights grabbed a purse which belonged to Mrs. A.J. Stuckey, containing $33, the proceeds of the Community Club dance.
Blasting Powder Stolen At Lisabeula – On April 6th, twenty-one boxes of Monite powder was stolen from the powder house on the tract of land southeast of the Lisabeula church purchased several months by A. Wax, of Kent. The land is being cleared for the development of a large poultry ranch and cherry orchard. The robbery of the powder is the second that has occurred in the last six weeks, the other being the theft of tools, battery and accessories from the car of the workman in charge of the clearing work. Footprints showed very plainly in the soft dirt, as well as the tracks of the car tires. Mr. Wax has offered a reward of $100 for information that will lead to the arrest and conviction of the guilty parties.
Cars Collide Near Center – Monday afternoon an automobile accident occurred near the Roberts home when the Frank Fuller car ran into a car being driven by Jack Collier. Mr. Collier stopped suddenly and Mr. Fuller, who was coming in the same direction, did not realize that Mr. Collier had stopped until it was too late to avoid striking him. One of the children was thrown to the pavement, but aside from a black eye was apparently unhurt. Miss Marjorie Stanley, who came along just after the accident, brought the Fullers to Dr. Grandy’s Vashon office where they were cared for.
Work On North End Water System Started – The North End is the scene of considerable activity, with work going on both on the new ferry dock and on the new water system being installed. Work has begun about one-fourth mile south of the Matt Johnson place. There will be about 3 miles of distribution mains laid. Twenty men are already at work on the project. The source of water for the North End system is a spring just east of the Matt Johnson property, on the Puget Mill land. It has a volume of 200 gallon per minute, by actual measurement.
Work On New Dock Was Started Monday – On Monday a crew of county dock and bridge men began work on the new ferry dock at the North End. Tom Blum, bridge engineer was over Monday getting the work under way. At first it was hoped to have the dock completed early in the year, but unlooked for difficulties in securing title to the tide lands upon which it is to be built has held up the work. The new dock will fill a long felt want, as it will be wide enough for three car lanes, as well as one for pedestrians. In addition to the space occupied by cars waiting for ferries there will be sufficient room for cars to pass coming and going off of the dock. A new structure will be built almost due north of the present one, and will do away with the sharp curve at the bottom of the hill, which has always been a nuisance. It is hoped that the work will be done and the dock in use by the time the heavy summer tourist traffic starts. With the enlarged ferry schedule, and the greater space provided by a larger dock many of the irritations of past seasons will be obviated.
Eight Arrested On Disturbance Charge – The peace and quiet of Burton was sadly disturbed last Thursday night by the revelry of a party of Tacoma radio salesmen and their friends who made merry at the Burton Hotel. The source of the liquor evidently consumed was a matter of mystery, but the effects were quite obvious to every one in the neighborhood, as there was considerable noise and hilarity. The visitors finally involved the manager and cook of the hotel, with less peaceable results, and in the ensuing altercation both men were more or less mussed up. Deputy Sheriff Shattuck was called and arrested O. Avery and John Papas, of the hotel, and the guests. They were taken into Seattle on the ten o’clock ferry Friday morning. The hotel men were given suspended sentences of 30 days each, with a double sentence and fine if ever brought into court again. They were charged with being drunk and fighting in a public place. The others were dismissed after being given an open sentence and a warning as to what would happen if they were again arrested in King County.
Will Prosecute In Future – Incensed over the refusal of members who make complaint then refuse to allow the association to prosecute the Northwestern Automobile Association has announced that they will no longer be deterred for sentimental reasons, but will let the law take its course. A few weeks ago a visitor on the Island had the spare tire and wheel stolen from his new car, but when the association investigator learned that the son of his host had stolen the wheel the visitor refused to allow the matter to come into court. A similar case occurred last Saturday night after gas had been stolen from a car. The man making the complaint refused to prosecute when he found that a friend was the guilty party. In the future the association will make good on their offer of $100 reward for the arrest and conviction of anyone guilty of stealing and pilfering.
Island Community Church Hold Services At Center – On last Sunday members of the Island Community church met for the first time in their new place of worship, the I.O.O.F. hall at Center. There was a goodly attendance at all of the services of the day. Free bus service from Burton will be augmented by additional service from Vashon Heights, thus providing means of transportation from both ends of the Island. Members of the church have held their meetings for the past two years in the old Burton High School. Plans for building on property purchased at Newport have been abandoned, and property will be secured nearer the center of the Island for a permanent church.
Schedule Of Rentals – It is doubtful if the public realizes what a reasonable price the Island Club can be rented for the public and private affairs. This week the officers of the club are publishing a schedule of rentals. This is in keeping with the policy of making the management of the building a strictly business proposition, the aim of the present officers, and a most commendable one. The Island needs such a meeting place, and only by good business methods can the building be maintained. Prices: Large hall with kitchen and coffee urn, for banquet, $10. Large hall for plays, etc., with stage, without kitchen or clubroom, $5.00. Afternoon practice for same, $1.00. Evening practice, $2.00. Clubroom and kitchen for afternoon, $2.00. Kitchen for evening, $5.00. Afternoon meetings of Island organizations, without janitor service, $1.00.
Editorial - Should We Have A Jail? – With the “crime wave” that seems to have struck the Island we wonder if those who favor and Island jail are so far wrong as several seem to think they are. It seems rather unreasonable to expect a deputy sheriff to make arrests, and then sit up with his prisoners if there happens to be no boat to take them into the city. Some time ago money was appropriated by the county commissioners and plans were made to build a combined jail and fire truck house. We are informed that every one was ready to sign on the dotted line for the purchase by the county of a suitable lot at Vashon. Very mysteriously the whole thing was dropped, and we have heard nothing more of our jail. It is unfortunate that a jail should be necessary, but we talk and plan to get new people on the Island, then when they come they are too often disgusted by the depredation that are the result of unchecked lawlessness. Undesirable characters each summer take advantage of the fact that we have no jail here, and know that they are free to do practically as they please.
Burton News Items – On April 7th, the Mrs. Charles Christman had lived on the Island just fifty years. They were not discussing paved roads, automobiles, and radios fifty years ago, but on the old homestead where the Puget Sound Power and Light Company has it office, a few years later marriage vows were plighted and happy days ensued, perhaps more enjoyable than the swift moving panorama of present time.
Burton News Items – Mr. Bruce T. Hall has been on the civil court jury in Seattle for several weeks and expects to serve until court adjourns several weeks hence.
Burton News Items – Sunday the Yoma-Yoma Club of Tacoma cruised in our harbor. Before returning they played eleven holes of golf on our sporty golf course.
High School Notes – “Resolved: That the Chain Store System is Undesirable” is one of the questions proposed by the state for next year’s inter-scholastic debate. There are numerous other questions on which the schools are to vote.
Dockton News – A lot of real estate has changed hands in this community the last few weeks. Claude Peterson has sold his bungalow; C.A. Keen has sold his house and ranch; the Community Club has bought the community house and land. It has not been decided to remodel the building or build a new one.
Tuesday evening a theatre party composed of Dr. and Mrs. V.C. Coutts, Mr. and Mrs. Bert Stanley, Mr. and Mrs. A.T. Bacchus, Mr. and Mrs. Howard Hansen, Miss Marjorie Stanley and Don Parker attended the Moore and saw the perenal Mitzi in “Dear Me.”
This week J.H. Rodda purchased two Dodge trucks, one a ¾ ton, the other a ton and a half, through the Met-Cro agency.
B.D. Mukai purchased a new Ford truck this week.
Austin Taylor and E.M. Rhine, of the Seattle P-I, spent three days on the Island this week securing material for a Vashon Island page that is to appear in the Sunday edition.
Win Golf Tournament – The golf tournament last Sunday resulted in a lot of fun, and a general all-round good time. When scores were added up at the end of the 18th hole, Mrs. Carol Bacchus and Dr. V.Chas. Coutts were declared winners with a score of 68 net, with 114 strokes.

April 23, 1931

Lewis Schmidt Takes Honor – Proud indeed are this schoolmates and friends over the splendid recognition of his ability accorded Lewis Schmidt in the oratorical contest last Friday night at the Broadway high.
Moy Goldfish On Display – Large aquariums of goldfish are now on display at the Vashon Hardware store in Vashon, and at Matt Morrissey’s in Burton. So much interest is being shown in the fish for sale at the Twickenham Estate Gardens that Mr. Moy has decided to have local agents.
Editors Coming On Saturday – With the Island looking its prettiest and the weather giving promise of behaving well it is hoped that there will be a goodly number of editors at the meeting of Group No. 9, of King-Kitsap and Pierce counties.
Installing New Lunch Counter – Reuben Lovegren, in anticipation of the summer tourist trade, is installing a new lunch counter on the Kitsap, similar to that of the Vashon, with up-to-the-minute equipment.
High Winds Cause Damage To Dock – The high winds of Tuesday and Wednesday wrought considerable damage to the North End dock. By noon on Tuesday the pounding of the slip against the dock was raising some of the planking several inches. The scow of lumber, and piling to be used in the new dock also proved rather effective playthings for the high waves that came rolling in, and their constant pounding on the north side of the dock caused more damage. By Tuesday evening two of the dolphins had gone out, and several of the pilings on the north side of the structure had been so loosened by the pounding of the new pilings that a barricade was put up to keep cars from that side. It is evident that the new dock is not being built any too soon, as the old one is getting too shaky for comfort. Work is progressing well, although the wind and high waves have proven a handicap. The excavations are practically complete, and the pouring of cement for the piers will likely be started the last of this week.
Large Assortment Of Tulips – It may be tulip time in Holland, but so is it over on the West Side at the Covington place. Tulips of all sizes, varieties and colors are flaunting their color in the spring sunshine. Mrs. Covington is said to have one of the largest individual collections of tulips in the country, having in all about 225 varieties. She has been requested to put on an individual flower show in Seattle. Of the 45 varieties of Triumphs that Mrs. Covington has there are 23 varieties that are nameless. Each of the many visitors that come to see the flowers are asked to name their choice of the most beautiful of these 23, and to the most popular one will be given the name of “Vashon.”
Crime On The Island – Recent developments have led me to the conclusion that crime on the Island is of a more serious nature than the public generally is aware of. The hold-up of the Dockton Community Hall, in regular bandit style; the robbing of many homes; the tying up of an old man at Manzanite and leaving him in a vacant house to his fate; the stealing of merchandise from our docks; the admission of drinking by children of ages from 14 to 18 years; the theft of more than 1,000 gallons of gasoline from autos, as well as tires and accessories and many other crimes too numerous to mention, calls for drastic action on the part of the Island people. Vashon should have a secret committee of three who will cooperate with the deputy sheriff and the court. It would be our recommendation that all gambling rooms be immediately closed and public dances be discontinued for the present. We would suggest also that the public cease to protect or cover up minor crime. That the sale, especially to minors, of moonshine be stopped, and any information possible given to officers. The office of justice of the peace is of more moral importance to you than any country office. I am suffering from a nervous break-down and at my age do no expect to recover, so I will have to resign my office in the near future, but I hope to be able to continue in office until the Island is normal again. The court is already in possession of information as to who committed eight recent robberies and more arrests will soon follow, but as some of the offenders are of tender age they will be given another chance if their parents will see that they appear in court voluntarily. This applies also to several guilty of drunkenness. There are about 3,000 people on the Island, and too large a number are running wild at all hours of the night. There is only one deputy sheriff so if we are going to get results we must get in and help him. If things do not soon change for the better we intend to put the vagrancy law into effect, which states that every minor out after dark, unless accompanied by one of his parents, or on an errand for them is a vagrant. This court will hold any person having in his possession or in his auto any device for drawing gasoline from an automobile will be convicted of stealing gas, and given a jail sentence. In closing I wish to compliment the editor of the News-Record for the good she is doing this community in giving publicity to those guilty of wrongdoing. – Yours truly, P.M. Armbruster.
Ellisport Items – The many friends of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Fuller will be glad to know that they are recovering nicely from the shock and the injuries received in their recent automobile accident.
Ellisport Items – Miss Helen Rhodes spent last weekend at her cottage here, making some sketches and watercolors of the subject she wished to paint during blossom time. Last year Miss Rhodes won the gold medal and $50 prize on her “A Street In Ellisport” at the International watercolor exhibition.
Burton News Items – The property on Burton beach known as “Maple Lodge” has been purchased by a Seattle party who is having the lodge torn down, a new bulkhead erected in front of the property and will soon have an artistic log house built for a summer home.
High School Notes – Lewis Schmidt has again brought great credit to the school and to himself by gaining first place in the group finals of the National Oratorical Contest. Lewis now has the opportunity to compete for state honors at Spokane. He especially displayed his ability and superior knowledge of his subject in the extemporary portion of the contest last Friday evening.
High School Notes – Phil Green and Coy Meredith of the general science class constructed a three-way switch, which was original in design but constructed in accordance with the general principals of electricity.
High School Notes – The valedictorian of the class of 1931 is William Dunlap and the salutatorian, Joyce Harmeling. These honors are determined by points in the honor society, general scholarship and extra curricular activities.
The Bacchus Lumber Company has just competed an additional storage room for the supply of concrete.
Bill Warner was over from Seattle Tuesday afternoon looking after equipment still in the Vashon theatre, and calling on a few friends.
Dr. Jones and Mrs. Agnes L. Smock attended the Moore theatre last Tuesday evening. Miss O’Mahoney was also in the audience, as were also the group of seniors who attended the play to gather some ideas for the presentation of the same play, “Polly Witha Past,” to be given May 2nd.
Richard McDonald, of the Imperial Candy Company, and his bosom friend, John Jarvis, of the Lilly Seed Company, made record sales today, finishing up in a few hours work that ordinarily means a hard day’s effort. No, there is no sales competition on. The perfect golfing weather is the reason.
Mrs. Byrd, of the Sanitary Barber Shop, has installed a permanent waving machine, and already is doing a good business.
The C.G. Kimmel store this week announced that beginning Saturday they will handle Langendorf bread. The advertisement of this popular bread appears In this issue.
To Install Electrical Equipment At Stevens Lodge – On Saturday the local crew of the P.S.P.& L. will install a large water heater, three hot air heaters and an electrical refrigerator in the Stevens lodge at Vashon Heights which is rapidly nearing completion.

April 30, 1931

Island Deputy Sheriff Locates Large Still – After several weeks of determined sleuthing by Deputy Sheriff Shattuck, a monster still, with elaborate paraphernalia for manufacturing moonshine was unearthed on the old Fred Waldron place about 1 1-2 miles west of the pavement on the Cove road. There were three large stills, equipped with the latest and best type of gas burners; there were stripped of all copper which was sent into the county office. Evidence that they had no inkling that the place had been discovered the owners of the property left behind 118 gallons of raw moonshine, which when diluted meant four times that amount for “the trade,” also two gallon of first class grain alcohol. There were two 1500 gallon and one 500 gallon vats filled, and a fourth of 250 gallon capacity that had apparently been emptied several days before. On Tuesday, Mr. Shattuck superintended the destruction of about two thousand dollars worth of equipment consisting of barrels, vats, huge jugs, crocks, etc., as well as a considerable amount of grain. Apparently engaged in moving furniture on and off of the Island the truck the operators had used had been almost filled first with moonshine packed in large cartons, then the balance of the space had been filled with furniture which furnished an excellent camouflage. In like manner the grain and sugar had been brought from the mainland. Suspicion points toward others on the Island as being involved, and although no arrests have yet been made it is anticipated that sufficient evidence is forthcoming to bring about several arrests in the very near future.
Klos Tillicum Club Entertained – Last Saturday evening Mr. and Mrs. C.G. Swanson entertained the members of the Klos Tillicum Club at their hospitable Burton home. A “Dutch treat” dinner, to which each member contributed a share, almost proved the undoing of a number of husbands.
Local Theatre To Re-Open May 13th – This week plans were completed and the lease signed whereby Mr. and Mrs. A.W. Ganly and Arthur Poultney became the sole managers of the Vashon Theatre. It is the purpose of the new management to conduct the show in a manner that will be acceptable to the general public. The need for a picture show on the Island is a recognized one, and since its closing some months ago the theatre has been sadly missed.
West Seattle Merchants To Entertain Vashon Islanders – To celebrate the increased auto ferry service between Vashon Island and Fauntleroy slated to take place May 2nd, the West Seattle Retail Merchants will stage an open house night and party for residents of Vashon Island.
Filipinos Arrested By Game Warden – Aroused by the lawless depredations of 15 Filipinos who were trapping game birds in the woods near the Harmeling and Price ranches, at Center, neighbors reported the state of affairs to Deputy Sheriff Shattuck, who notified Game Warden A.J. Beach. He discovered a line of about 180 snares. Grouse, pheasant and quail had been caught by the trappers, the game warden reported.
Editors Enjoy Island Outing – On last Saturday afternoon and evening, members of Group No 9 of the Washington Press Association were entertained by the Vashon Business Men’s Club. Visiting newspaper people were, Mr. and Mrs. C. Garrett and Miss Shirley, of the Sumner Standard; Mr. and Mrs. Ray Cloud and son, of the Edmonds Tribune Review; John Reid, John Coryell and John Heitzman, of the University Herald; Miss Gladys Hackett and R.D. Sawyer, of the Snoqualmie Valley Record; Mr. and Mrs. Ross Reed, of the West Seattle Herald; E.H. Thomas of the Motor Transportation; Harris Mason, of the Seattle Community Newspapers; Ed Fitzharris of the South Tacoma Star; August Toeline, of the Duwamish Valley News. Island residents present were W.D. Clark, Howard Hansen, Dr. McMurray, Dr. Coutts, C.J. Denny and Agnes L. Smock.
High School Notes – Dr. Grandy was present several days ago when the student body was planning ways and means for reducing the heavy debts it incurred for football injuries last fall. He generously offered to cancel his bill on the condition that the student body sells at least 150 tickets to the entertainment then being promoted by the Commercial Club. The students succeeded in fulfilling these conditions and this week received a receipt for Dr. Grandy’s bill, marked “paid in full.” We deeply appreciate this favor.
Poetry Contest Not Dead – Alex Smith accuses the poetry contest of vanishing into thin air, like the Mountain on a foggy day, but he’s mistaken. Last week some last minute advertising played havoc with our plans, and we make it a point never to turn down any advertising; we experienced several hectic interruptions, the kind one can never learn to make allowance for around a print shop. Anyway this week we are publishing last week’s best poem, along with this week’s. The final judging of all of the poems will be made as soon as we can find time to type those that were sent in written in long hand. The only promise we will make about the final judging is that it will be done as early in May as is humanly possible. Ordinarily in a contest of this sort one of the requirements is typewritten copy, so we ask the Island poets who have contributed such clever bits of verse to take this into consideration, and bear with us.
Cove News Items – The contractors have been busy moving the Bert Fjeldal house to its new location, making room for the new highway. The Cove Community Hall is also directly in the path of the highway, and will have to be moved.
Activities in the village indicate that Vashon is soon to have another business place opened up soon.
Blind Bogey Event – The blind bogey event is a feature of Sunday, May 3, at the Vashon Island Golf Course. It is open to women members only. Eighteen holes will be played, six holes being selected and the numbers kept secret. The player making the best score on these particular holes will be declared winner and will receive a prize, the value of which will be $5.

May 1931

May 7, 1931

Deputy Sheriffs Get Another Still – On last Saturday Deputy Sheriffs F.J. Shattuck and J.M. Barnes raided another still on Maury Island, arresting the operator, J.H. Smith, whom they took into Seattle. When arrested Smith had the still operating full blast in a root house on his ranch at the foot of the Brockway hill. They found a 30 gallon still, four 50 gallon barrels of mash, about 12 gallons of moonshine, empty barrels, a gas pressure tank and burner, testers, etc. This is the second time the Smith ranch has been raided, last winter the federal officers having arrested a Seattle man to whom the barn had been rented.
State and County Engineers Visit – A party of state and county officials were on the Island Wednesday looking over the road situation at the South End. They were joined by a party of local men who went over the grounds with them, expressing local desires and opinions, and pointing out the route that seems to them most feasible. This visit was preparatory to the survey to be made soon, and the location of the highway upon which the $60,000 appropriation made by the recent legislature and the $10,000 appropriated by the county is to be spend.
Cars Must Have 1931 License Plates – With the State Highway Department short two men this spring Capt. Owen Magill, in charge of the local work, has turned over to Deputy Sheriff Shattuck the work of picking up all cars operating without a license. He has picked up several the past week, and will continue the good work until all Island cars are carrying 1931 license plates.
New Delivery Trucks Arrive – The two fine new panel delivery trucks recently purchased by the Rodda store at Center through the Met-Cro Garage, Dodge dealers, have been delivered, and are indeed good to look at. The bodies of both, one three-quarter and one a one and a half ton truck, are finished in dark maroon, with the name of the Center store in gold leaf.
Water From Shingle Creek For North End – With about twenty men on the job the work of installed the new water system at Vashon Heights is being rushed to completion. The tank, west of the highway, across the road from the Matt Johnson place will soon be built, as the framework is practically done. Plans for the source of water have been changed, and instead of using the spring originally intended, the line is being extended about two miles farther and water will be pumped from the Cedarhurst creek, better known as Shingle Creek. The spring will be reserved for an auxiliary supply.
Burton News Items – It is a very suggestive and attractive sight to watch the aquarium fish in Morrissey’s shop windows. It tempts one to want a fish of a larger size, one steps inside and a sale is made, thus getting two feasts for the price of one.
Burton News Notes – We were curious to know the ambitions of the six young people from Burton and Newport who graduate from our high school next month so made bold to ask what they intend to do with their talents and their gratifying answers show these talents will not be held nor left exposed go criticism. Ruth Olson expects to go in training as a nurse at the Swedish hospital in Seattle soon. Alfie Nystedt will attend some school or college where he can get training along mechanical or electrical lines. Daisy Taylor will be her father’s office girl at his factory in Spokane during the summer and will take up work at Pullman College in the fall. Joe Green will make his millions again at fishing and has not quite decided yet, when the season is over, whether to run for president or go to Pullman. Marcia Forbes hopes to go to college. Arlyn Nelson will either go to Pullman or go in training as a nurse.
High School Notes – An assembly was called at 2 p.m. last Friday when our eighth grade visitors, their teachers and principals were present. Mr. Robertson gave a welcoming speech and then talks from the four class presidents, Joe Green, Earl Hendricksen, Margaret Smith and Phil Green were delivered. Robert Petherick, the student body president spoke on student activities.
High School Notes – In the state finals of the national oratorical contest at Spokane last Friday, Lewis Schmidt, in competition with seven other state-wide representatives, won third place. Lewis was the youngest competitor present.

May 14, 1931

High School Play Nicely Presented – The senior class of the Vashon High School are to be congratulated on their splendid interpretation of the play, “Polly With a Past.” This was given in the high school auditorium before one of the largest audiences ever present at a school program.
Improvement Club Holds Last Meeting Of Season – The last meeting of the Burton Improvement Club for this season, was held Thursday, May 7. A number of important matters were discussed, the most important being the state appropriation for improving highways on Vashon Island. A committee was appointed to confer with Capt. John Manson of the Vashon Transportation Co., asking that the steamer Vashona be placed on that route from Island points to Tacoma as a permanent and continuous run. The road committee reported that the county commissioners had promised to withhold the tide land at the end of the main business street from sale, so that it might be kept for public use.
Radio Program To Be Dedicated To Island – On Monday, May 18, at 9:15 a.m., there will be a special radio program over KJR, dedicated to Vashon Island. This is to be a fifteen minute program in which “Mary, of Proctor’s” in Seattle, will interview Norman Edson regarding the beauty spots of our Island. Mrs. Weller came to the Island two weeks ago especially to interview Mr. Edson, regarding his work. She became so interested in the Island and his pictures that she arranged this program exclusively for Vashon Island. It will be interesting to tune in Monday and hear what they have to say.
Receives Appointment – Friends of Henry Harmeling will be interested to hear that he has been called to Washington, D.C., to fill the position of Judge Advocate in the Militia Department. He and Mrs. Harmeling will leave on the fifteenth of this month, and travel by boat through the Canal. A farewell dinner was given in their honor at the home of Mr. Harmeling’s father, Stephen J. Harmeling. Twenty-seven children and grandchildren were present, only one brother of Manitoba being absent.
Golf Tournament Finished – On May 10th the last nine holes of the Ladies’ Blind Bogey was played. Mrs. E.H. Miller was the winner, with Mrs. Tim Clark as runner up. Another mixed foursome is scheduled for the end of the month. Come on golfers.
Don’t Cut The Corners – A straight line may be the shortest between two points, but the longest way round is sometimes the safest. Byron Levenseller and Lloyd Hiersch are scratching their heads and wondering how it all happened. Luckily there was no one hurt, though two pocketbooks are badly bent. It seems Byron was coming down the hill in his Essex, swiftly, and cutting the curve on the left side of the road. Lloyd Hiersch in Kimmel’s delivery truck was coming up. They were adroit in their maneuverings to avoid each other, but the crash was unavoidable. Byron’s car suffered a broken rear wheel, a smashed fender, and badly dented body. The delivery truck also lost a wheel, had the front axle bent almost double, and the fender smashed beyond recognition. It all happened on the pavement near the Twickenham Estate. Perhaps the ferry whistling in the distance was the cause for all the rush. At any rate it’s too bad it had to happen, but it’s fortunate no bones were broken.
Beall Greenhouses Makes Large Shipments – Over one thousand hydrangea plants alone were shipped out from the Beall greenhouses for Mother’s Day. And roses, snap-dragons, anemones and gardenias were sent out in profusion. “Yes, we’ve been making two shipments a day,” said Mr. Beall, “not only to Seattle but to Tacoma and other cities.” Their own trucks carry the flowers as far north as Bellingham, and south through the Grays Harbor country.
Fire Destroys Home – Wednesday evening the home of Mr. A. Bourgoeis, in Paradise Valley was completely destroyed by fire. The exact cause of the fire is unknown, but it is believed to be from a defective chimney. They were at dinner at the time. Mrs. Bourgeois smelled fire and ran outside to discover the roof ablaze and gaining headway rapidly. There was no time to save furniture or clothes. One trunk containing valuable papers and pictures was dragged out, and one chest of drawers. Fire extinguishers were rushed from Vashon by auto, but the fire had gained such a start that they were of no avail. Mr. and Mrs. Bourgoeis and the children are living in the barn until they can make other arrangements. Neighbors and friends are aiding them in every way possible. It is most unfortunate that even their fruit cellar was destroyed. They escaped with only the clothes they had on. Mr. Bourgoeis is certainly laboring under hard luck. It was only a few years ago that his splendid team of horses took fright on the ferry dock, and running the length of the dock plunged off the ferry slip and were drowned. It is to be hoped this is the last misfortune he will suffer.
“Know Your Island” Map Drawing Contest – Only one week left to get in those maps for the contest being sponsored by the Island Community Church. The contest closes May 20. Any grade school boy or girl living on Vashon Island is eligible to compete.
Who In H___ Sent This In? – Despite her some seventy and more years, Mrs. Pyle still loves company and good food. Everyone of course saw the high school play last week. Bill or genial tonsorial operator will be among those absent for two weeks or more. George of the city of Ellisport thinks that housewives should receive a salary. Seems like most of the bachelors were at the Community Church Monday night.
Mrs. Weiss, who is recovering from her recent illness, was very happy to have as her guest Tuesday, Mrs. Albert Guy of the Guy Drug Co., in Seattle. Mrs. Guy was a resident of the Island before her marriage.
Mr. Ganly and Mr. Poultney, leases of the Vashon Theatre opened the theatre last night with a good picture and a good attendance. We are glad to have our movie with us again under new management.
The new dock at Vashon Heights is progressing rapidly. The position of this dock is a great improvement over the old one, as it eliminates the sharp turn at the foot of the hill. If one’s brakes fail him now, he can at least get a good start for Seattle instead of bumping his nose in the gravel on the beach.
Notice To The Public – Dumping of garbage or refuse of any kind in the water sheds is absolutely prohibited. Any one doing this will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law. By order of the Commissioners.
Children’s Recital Enjoyed By All – A large number of parents and friends attended the musical recital given by the pupils of Mrs. Morgan Doebbler, Sunday afternoon. The Presbyterian Church was beautifully decorated for the occasion. Those taking part in the musical were: Margery Lou Steen, Allen Metzenberg, Shirley Jean Blekking, Patty Jane Doebbler, Wendel Matthews, Charles Kimball, Katherine Berry, Miriam Takasuka, Mrs. Helen McElvain, Mrs. Henrietta Williams, Miss Mildred Bell, Patricia Lavan, and Nadine Everett.

May 21, 1931

Next Week To Be Busy One At H.S. – The coming week will indeed be a busy one for members of the senior class. The commencement program of this class is unique in that theirs is the first class to graduate from the new Vashon Island High School, and their plans are correspondingly more elaborate than those of former classes. William Dunlap, valedictorian has chosen as his topic, “Opportunity,” while Joyce Harmeling, salutatorian, will speak on “The Art of Living.” Members of the Vashon Island high school class of 1931 are: Christine Wallacker, Mildred Anne Calhoun, Bertha Josephine Anderson, Daisy Taylor, Alma Mariann Anderson, Byron Levenseller, Ila Irene Besonen, Elizabeth Grace Reeves, Victoria Rose Radin, Ezna Genola Clyde. Albert R. Church, Wilbur F. Smith, Marcia Evelyn Forbes, Grace Alta Hancock, Miriam A. Takatsuka, Fielder Magruder Beall, Alfie Soren Nystedt, Valborg Christine Sarvold, Norma Johansen, Ruth Davida Olson. Peter Sarvold, Robert Petherick, Thomas W. Beall, Beauchamp James Nelson, Carl C. Castle, Gerald Cody Fretz, Kenneth Komers Dowling, William Burwell Dunlap, Joseph Sandwith Green, Basilio Castello. Elizabeth Joyce Harmeling, Arlyn Ann Nelson, Ward Henry Clark, Roland Nelson Carey, William Bengston, Cushing Coates, Ralph Leonard Jensen, John Ronald Corliss, Loel Kalland, George Vernon Lewis. Hjalmar Kvisvik, Cornelius Larsen, Torval Steen, Felix Frombach, Nelle Fern Prigg, Mary Florence Snell, Vernon D. Smith.
Grade School Operetta Pleases – The operetta, presented by the Center grade school pupils in the high school auditorium Friday night was splendid. When one considers that three months ago these children knew little about music except that it was another method of making a noise, one marvels at what they have accomplished under the direction of Mrs. Lesh. The grand finale, with the children in their colorful costumes all on the stage at once, was beautiful, and they sang the big chorus, “In A Florist’s Window,” very well indeed.
Strawberry Crop Will Be Light – B.D. Mukai recently completed a trip of 1,000 miles during which he inspected a large number of strawberry fields in Washington and Oregon. Mr. Mukai made this survey at the request of a number of brokers who wished authorative information on the outlook for the 1931 crop. Last year the Washington crop exceeded that of Oregon, but this year the reverse is true. This state of affairs seems to be the most favorable sign for the strawberry grower, for with the present declining market a full crop would have spelled unparalleled low prices for barreled berries. However, with prospects of only a light crop, the chances for good prices offsets this. Mr. Mukai feels that the growers will receive a better return for his crop than many had dared to hope for.
Cars Collide – While driving from the Beall road Tom Steffenson failed to see the Herman Deppman car coming from the north, and in the ensuing crash both cars were badly smashed up, though no one was hurt.
Proposes Forming Welfare League – In making his rounds of the Island as assessor, W.D. Garvin had discovered that there had been more suffering from poverty on the Island last winter than was suspected, and that in several cases children were unable to attend school on account of insufficient clothing. Mr. Garvin has suggested the forming of a welfare league on the Island, of at least a hundred members who will pledge fifty cents a month toward a fund for handling such cases. A committee composed of one person from each school district, to investigate cases of need, render the necessary assistance, and send the bill to the treasurer. Mr. Garvin would appreciate hearing the sentiment of the Island people in the matter.
Bakery Begins Operation – The new Island industry is now in full progress, and from all indications seems to justify the faith of the owner, William Markham. Mr. Markham began the past week to deliver his bakery goods to the local stores, and Island merchants report that their patrons seem well satisfied, and that the quality of goods that come out of the new bakery ovens is in greater demand than they had even hoped for. At the present time Mr. Markham is selling his bread principally through the stores, but in short time a shop will be opened up in the room formerly occupied by the Vashon Shoe Shop, which has moved to the room vacated by W.D. Garvin.
Report Is Unfounded – The report that the steamer “Vashona” had been purchased by the Kitsap County Transportation Company for the Island run is without foundation. The company has purchased the boat but it is to be used on the Bainbridge Island run, according to information received from the Seattle office today. The “Verona” will continue in use as at the present.
To Sponsor Celebration – The celebration of the completion of the new North End dock will be sponsored by the Vashon Island Commercial Club it was announced this week.
Grade School To Hold Graduation Exercises – The eighth grade of the Vashon grammar school will hold graduating exercises at 8 o’clock Friday evening May 22nd in the school auditorium. The members of the Vashon eighth grade class are Hildur Agren, Betty Calloway, Charlotte Canfield, Ida Jacobsen, Lorna Urquhart, Marguerite Thomson, Stanley Anderson, John Lewis Beall, Gustave Jacobson, Hubert Lavan, Charles Kimball, Don Matsumoto, Wendell Matthews, George Nelson and George Sivertson. Valedictory by Charlotte Canfield. Salutatory by Don Matsumoto.
Orthopedic Pound Party On June 5 – All the friends of the Orthopedic Hospital on Vashon and Maury are invited to attend the annual Pound Party at the hospital on the afternoon of Friday June 5. The price of admission is one pound (or more) of food suited to the use of patients or nurses in the hospital; sugar, cereals, chocolate, cocoa, crackers, fruit (fresh, dried or canned, especially oranges,) eggs, fruit juices, jelly, etc. Miss Marjorie Stanley will see that every pound reaches the hospital.
Burton News Items – We understand the steamer “Vashona” made her last trip out of Quartermaster Harbor Sunday night. Hereafter the “Concordia” will serve the people, for which we may be duly thankful as the passenger service does not justify a larger boat. Auto folks use their cars, freight comes by truck, the seagulls ride the waves, what is there to bring in but a few straggling passengers, who would mourn greatly were the service made still less satisfactory.
Burton News Items – The steamer “Atlanta” arrived at Burton dock Friday afternoon with one hundred and seventy teachers, professors and students from Seattle Pacific College for their annual outing.
Burton News Items – Nothing more can be added to the praise given our artist, Norman Edson over KJR, Seattle, Monday morning by Mary of Proctor, who made us realize more than ever the wonderful amount of advertising Vashon Island is getting through his pictures which go all over the country. Followed up by this broadcast, will bring the Island to the front where she should have been years ago.
In the Statement Of The Ownership, Management, Circulation, Etc. of Vashon Island News-Record for April 1, 1931 shows Agnes L. Smock as Publisher, Editor and Owner and Chas. J. Denny as Business Manager.
Vashon Island Eighteenth Amendment Society – Many scores of voters have signed the pledge to support the eighteenth amendment and have requested to be enrolled in the Vashon Island Society. The pledge signing continues and a second mass meeting will be announced soon with invitations to the general public. Young people are already highly interested. All pledges should be returned to Rev. R.E. Dunlap, Portage, Wash.
Theosophical Society – Theosophical public meeting, first and third Sundays of each month, at Burton public library, at 3:00 p.m. Subject for May 17, “The Source of Theosophy.”
On Tuesday a number of B.C. Indians arrived, ready to begin strawberry picking. B.D. Mukai informed them that they were about ten days too early. Picking will likely begin in earnest about the fifth of June.
George McCormick returned Wednesday from a business trip to Montana, where he looked over mining property.
One of our contributors spoke warmly in defense of the “Verona,” saying that she was a remnant of the Seattle waterfront traditions that are all too rapidly disappearing. From the sentiment generally expressed by the worn-out shoppers on the 5:30 evening trip it is evident that there is no general yearning to go back to the early days. Now we are sorry we didn’t drink more of that good coffee, and eat more of those good sundaes they serve on the “Vashon.”
Mrs. Rose Gorsuch reports that the first of the harvest of gooseberries will be picked today (Thursday).
High School Notes – Great excitement has been occasioned by the arrival of the “Vashonian,” the school annual. The present annual is much larger than last year’s. The excellent art work was done by Margaret Edwards and Eleanor Beall with the assistance of Ila Besonen, Arlyn Nelson, Rose Garner, Margaret Peterson and Clyed Evetts. The Vashon high school annual, The Vashonian, with its eight hand colored inserts, its photographs for every page, its humorous and serious relation of school events, is indeed an annual to be proud of. The books arrived Monday evening and distribution began Tuesday at noon.

May 28, 1931

Merely A Coincidence – There has been considerable surmising as to why two doctors and the deputy sheriff all left the Commercial Club meeting simultaneously last Tuesday evening. One doctor was called to care for a man suffering the after-effects of the extraction of a tooth; the other doctor was summoned to attend a sick baby; while the deputy sheriff was called to apprehend a beach-comber at Colvos that was reported helping himself to everything in sight. No fatalities were reported.
Local Boy Scout Awarded Highest Rank – Boy Scouts on the Island will be glad to learn that one of the boys who began here at the Boy Scout Club House with Scout Master Ira Thompson has been awarded the highest rank in Scouting. At the Boy Scout Court of Honor held last Wednesday evening in Seattle Lewis Smith was awarded the rank of Eagle. Lewis is now a member of Troop 202 in Seattle.
New Place Of Business Opens In Vashon This Week – Wednesday saw the opening of another business place in Vashon. Mae’s Sweet Shop is a charming lunch room prettily decorated, with all of the features of a city shop. A color scheme of grey, orange and black is carried out in decorations, furniture, dishes, linens, etc. The place is owned and managed by Mrs. Mae Naugle and Mrs. Cleo Gordon, Mrs. Naugle’s cousin. It is located in the Hansen building, in the room formerly occupied by the Vashon Shoe Shop which moved into the smaller quarters one door north. The attractive neon sign in front of the Sweet Shop adds another city touch to the business section of Vashon. The products of the new Island bakery will be handled exclusively in the Sweet Shop.
New Flag Pole Up At Island Club – With everyone helping in the good work the new flag pole at the Island Club will be up for Memorial Day. The place has been much improved by the flower beds recently put in by the Vashon Gardens. While the club purchased the plants from Mr. Hoshi, he and his children did all of the work of making the flower beds and planting as a contribution to this Island institution.
Burton News Notes – Effective June 1st the rural route from Burton post office will be extended one mile to the beach near the William E. Bates place. This change will benefit a number of families who have been going a long distance to reach their mail boxes, as well as the summer people who add a considerable number to the patrons receiving mail.
Burton News Notes – “Virginia III” is on the Quartermaster run now – a more roomy and speedier boat than the “Concordia.”
Dockton News Notes – On Tuesday evening Miss Helen Rhodes entertained about thirty-five young women from the university, members of the Lambda Rho, honorary art. The occasion was the spring initiation into the society and the festivities were held in Miss Rhodes’ attic studio at her cottage, after a buffet supper served around the fireplace. Miss Rhodes has herself been accorded an honor this year by the Carnegie foundation. A scholarship has been given her for a two month study and sketching trip in the east, mainly at Harvard University.
Ellisport Items – Last Saturday night a large party of young men and girls of the Japanese colony of the Island, held a jolly beach party on the point at Ellisport.
Ellisport Items – Thanks to the efforts of Mr. C.F. VanOlinda, chairman of the park committee of the Commercial Club, the picnic grounds at Ellisport were mowed and put in good shape for the school picnic, which is to be held here this week.
Island News Notes – Mrs. Agnes L. Smock attended the weekly luncheon of the West Seattle Commercial Club on Monday. A Seattle daily stated that she issued an invitation to the members to attend the meeting of the local Commercial Club on Tuesday evening. For the benefit of the officers of the club we state that “thereby hangs a tale.”
Island News Notes – Ruby Roessler was on the Island Sunday. She will again conduct a series of dances in the pavilion at Burton, which she owns. She has had the hall completely redecorated and renovated for the season.
Islanders continue to receive publicity through the medium of the radio. Last week Norman Edson was interviewed, and on Sunday Mrs. Alex Stewart was mentioned by Mr. Cecil Solly as having exhibited a clematis at the Bellevue flower show that had created a veritable sensation.
In some unaccountable manner an error appeared last week in the advertisement of the local beauty shop. Mrs. Boyd’s charge for a permanent wave is $5, instead of $6.
With the strawberries appearing on the market; spring chickens getting better every day; the sun shining a considerable part of the time, life again seems fairly well worth while.
Maybe it doesn’t come under the category of legitimate news, but we are going to beat the Hearst papers to it, and “believe it or not” Fred Weiss and W.D. Garvin claim that they arose early and were out playing golf at six o’clock Wednesday morning. Personally we require an affidavit.
A number of Indians arrived on the Island this week ready for the harvesting of the strawberry crop which will begin in real earnest next week.
Former Island Boy Handles Huge Bonds – Island friends will be interested to know of the very important part played by Fred J. Butcher, son of Mr. and Mrs. Peter Butcher, in the Hoover dam project, now attracting the attention of the entire nation. Mr. Butcher, who is assistant secretary of the Fireman’s Fund Indemnity Company of San Francisco, had the entire handling of the bonds for the six companies who are building the dam. The bid of Six Companies, the incorporated name of twenty-one companies sharing in the work, is the largest in the history of American construction. The project is second only in magnitude and cost to the Panama Canal. Mr. Butcher is a graduate of the University of Washington, and Pennsylvania University.
What Is A Village? – We were informed last week that a certain intelligent young man “got a good laugh” out of our use of the word “village” in connections with Vashon. We use the word to distinguish between the place where we live and the entire Island. Vashon is not an incorporated town, so we are at a loss to know just what the proper clarification is if it is not a village. Our informant says that “village” is not the correct term to apply to such a hustling, thriving place as Vashon, but failed to instruct us as to what is the correct term. So if any of the Islanders can give us the desired information we will send them a leather medal, or an autographed photo of Skippy.

June 1931

June 4, 1931

Power Company Lays New Cable – A cable insuring complete and uninterrupted electrical service to Vashon Island was laid Monday by the cableship William Nottingham of the Puget Sound Power & Light Company. The cable laid this week is a duplicate of one which has been in service to the Island for several years, and will be operated in parallel with the existing cable. “In laying the new cable, the company was simply taking steps to guarantee to the residents of Vashon Island that their service will continue at all times to be as-good as that furnished on the mainland.” Jeff L. Alexander, division manager of the Central District of the power company, said, “While one cable is adequate in capacity to serve the Island, it was felt that duplicate transmission facilities were necessary to prevent any possibility of service interruptions.” The new cable is of the most approved submarine type, three and three-eighths inches in diameter and designed to carry a load of 13,000 volts. The eastern terminal of the cables is at Des Moines, where last summer the power company constructed two duplicate substations to serve the Island. The new cable, 13,000 feet in length, reaches the shore of Vashon Island north of Robinson’s Point.
Enumclaw Men Visit Island Berry Fields – Today (Thursday) a party of Enumclaw business men, accompanied by J. Salderhead, of the Port of Seattle storage department, are making a tour of the Island visiting strawberry fields and inspecting the barreling plant of B.D. Mukai. These men are gathering information with a view to boosting the berry growing and packing industries in Enumclaw and vicinity.
Notice Of Meeting – Sunshine Club to meet at the home of Mrs. Geo. Walls. Mrs. Wilber assisting hostess.
Burton Flower Show Postponed – The Burton Garden Club flower show has been postponed until early fall. On account of the backward season the flowers are not what they should be. No definite date has been decided on, but announcement will be made later in the season.
Install Equipment To Clean Gooseberries – To the small growers of the Island who do not have enough acreage of gooseberries to warrant the purchase of a blower to clean their fruit the recent addition of such equipment to the depot of the local Fruit Growers’ Association represents a real convenience. This machine cleans the berries of all loose leaves, twigs, etc., leaving them clean and ready for the cannery. The Association has begun in real earnest for the season, and each day is shipping gooseberries and strawberries. The crop of the latter berries is reported as being much lighter than usual all over the Island.
Island Citizen Takes Own Life – Neighbors and friends were deeply shocked and grieved to learn that on Friday night Fred Rose had taken his own life. Although he had been in poor health for some time Mr. Rose gave no indication that he contemplated the act. He was in no particular financial difficulty; his little farm west of Vashon was in excellent condition, with prospects of a good crop. Even his own family knew of no reason. About ten o’clock Mrs. Rose missed her husband and called her son to look for him when he failed to answer her call. He found his father in the barn, where he had hung himself from a ladder not more than seven feet high.
Bus Service To Be Extended To Seattle – In response to the demand for the service directly into Seattle the Vashon Island Transportation Company on June 10th will add to their regular trips two daily trips into Seattle, with an additional one on Sunday. Return trips from Seattle will be made on week days from the Canadian National Dock.
D.A.R. Broadcast – The story of Elizabeth Bixby will be told in a radio talk from KJR on Saturday, June 6th at 1:15 p.m. This talk is to be given by Mrs. C. J. Magrusson of Seattle and is one of a series given by various members of the state organization of Daughters of the American Revolution.
Local Barreling Plant Is Now In Operation – There seems to be no indication of a depression, or of lack of faith in the future of the barreling industry, at the B.D. Mukai plant, for it is busier than ever this season, and this with the activities just starting. In the fields there are about 140 pickers engaged during the day in picking the berries which at night are taken care of by a crew of 16. The employees are a cosmopolitan mixture of races, and a visit to the plant, particularly in the evening, is well worth taking the time for. Grouped around, divided as to race and color usually, one finds a predominance of Indians and Filipinos, with an intermixture of Japanese and Whites. Among the Indians there are two tribes, between which there is a sharp line of demarcation. This year, for the benefit of the employees Mr. Mukai has a new feature, that of handling groceries. The young lady in charge of selling these to the pickers seems to find much diversion in solving the problems of just what the different individuals require. She states that a chief of one of the tribes of Indians always stands by ready to help by interpreting.
New Machinery Efficient – The new machinery installed the past winter is working with 100 percent efficiency. The stemmed berries are dumped into water that is constantly agitated, pass under seven water sprays, and are carried up and past twelve girls who work at top speed, removing from them leaves, stems, etc., that my have been overlooked in the picking. Aside from the removal of foreign matter from the berries they are not touched by human hands. They are carried into the barrels; the sugar is added automatically in the proportion of one part of sugar to two of berries; the berries are packed down into the barrel by the motion of the platform upon which it rests; it is finally weighed, headed, then shipped to the storage plant of the Port of Seattle. On Tuesday, in the first shipment of fruit there were 49 barrels. The plant has a capacity of 300 barrels a day. While the market is uncertain, and the price of barreled berries the lowest it has been since the war, Mr. Mukai has not changed his plans for the output of the season and is buying berries from a number of the Island fields in addition to the output of his own mammoth fields.
Large Crowd Attends Graduation Exercises – The largest crowd, probably, ever gathered together on the Island witnessed the commencement exercises on last Thursday evening. It was a pleasure to the interested parents and friends to comfortably see and hear the program from beginning to end. It is estimated that close to 700 persons were in the audience.
Telling The World – This week our attention has been called to two very efficient ways in which the world is being informed that there is such a place as Vashon. England and Petersen have adopted a new, individual stamp for their egg crates. It is a diamond-shaped design bearing the words “Puget Sound White Eggs – E.& P., Vashon, Wash.” Not many words, but definitely locating Vashon on Puget Sound in the minds of those handling, and buying these crates of eggs. In like manner every barrel of berries shipped from the B.D. Mukai plant carries the information that the berries contained were grown on “Vashon Island.” This is valuable advertising for with the name of our Island, in each of these instances, goes a quality product.
From all parts of the Island reports come of the crowds of tourists and visitors over the last week-end. The ferries were crowded on every trip Sunday afternoon almost to capacity.
Henry Baker, the popular purser on the Vashon, has purchased a lot at Cedarhurst on which he expects to build soon.
Lisabeula Items – The West Pass Transportation Company has applied to the Board of Public Works at Olympia for a certificate to operate a ferry from Biloxi to Seattle. They expect to have a hearing soon, and if the certificate is granted service will start just as soon as preparations can be made.
Southern Heights News – The berry picking season in this neighborhood opened on Tuesday in the Bittenger strawberry patch.
Burton News Items – It would take too long to tell of the numerous parties who filled the beach houses over last week-end, and of our town people who went elsewhere, of the loaded ferries and passenger boats bringing and taking away happy people. It could all be summed up on a summer post card – “Having a lovely time – wish you were here.”

June 11, 1931

North End Dock Nearing Completion – Work is progressing rapidly, and probably by the July Fourth, Vashon Island residents, and the large number of tourists who vacation here will be using the new North End dock, conceded to be the finest on Puget Sound. The precarious condition of the old dock is evident to all who drive over it, and to those who go under it in a small boat it is a wonder that it has stood up at all under the strain of the many cars passing over it daily.
Lives Up To The Promise – The fact that Vashon Island is glad to have the local show house re-opened is evidenced in the splendid patronage being accorded. The pictures being shown are the high class order promised at the beginning. The machines are running smoothly, as that there is no interruption. The ventilation of the building is the best it has ever been. But better than all else is the fact that such splendid order is being maintained that one may now enjoy seeing a show from start to finish without any rivalry on the part of the audience, such as has been known to exist in times past.
Fancy Hot House Grapes Feature Trading On Row – The following story appeared in Monday’s issue of the Northwest Daily Produce News: W.V. Covey, who operates a hothouse over on Vashon Island, is certainly way ahead of the season, and shows what can be done despite the date, or time of the year. The street received a real surprise last Saturday when Mr. Covey shipped in a couple of crates of regular “hand-painted” grapes, grown in his hot-house at Vashon. The fruit was handled by Crenshaw & Bloxom, and sold on arrival at 40 cents per pound, with buyers howling for more. According to word from Mr. Covey, the crop will be marketed in numerous small shipments, and from the manner in which the initial delivery was cleaned up, there is no doubt but what Mr. Covey will market the entire crop at a very handsome figure.
First Logans Of Season – With a growing reputation for early production the Island has again scored in marketing the first loganberries of the season to be sent into Seattle. These berries were from the fields of Carl Wick, on the West Side.
Buying Strawberries For Seattle Firm – On account of a shortage of strawberries, and the excellent quality of the Island berries, Charles and Louis Deppman are buying all the berries not otherwise contracted for locally for the firm of Richardson & Holland. These berries will be used for making fountain syrup. The price being offered by this firm is much better than many of the most optimistic had dared to hope to receive for strawberries this season.
Vashon Business Men To Give Carnival In July – Plans are about completed for the annual carnival of the Vashon Business Men’s Club, which will be held some time in July. The definite date could not be settled upon for publication in this issue, but will probably be announced next week.
Arrested for Carrying Concealed Weapon – Sunday afternoon the Portage dock was the scene of more or less excitement, when a Filipino, Fred Gaodia, drew two guns and attempted to force Peter Nerida, one of his countrymen, to pay a sum of money he claimed Nerida owed him. Reports are that threats were made, but not put into execution. Deputy Sheriff Shattuck was called, and knowing where the Filipino boys who were causing the disturbance lived, he went to their cabin, reaching it before they did. As he was waiting a car, with five boys drove up. As they got out of the car they recognized Mr. Shattuck and Gaodia was seen to take two guns from his pockets and throw them into the bushes. They proved to be two 32 automatic pistols. Gaodia, the owner of the guns, and Louis Garcia, driver of the car, were arrested and taken to Seattle, where they are to be tried Thursday afternoon, for third degree assault, Gaodia charged with carrying concealed weapons and making threats to kill, and Garcia with being an accessory. If found guilty the possible sentence is from one to three years imprisonment.
Car Accidents Are Numerous – Several automobile accidents have occurred the past week, none of which have caused any fatalities, but the cars involved, in two cases were considerably wrecked. While driving to the Tacoma ferry last Saturday, near Capt. Phillips home, Gordon Eberle and Howard Mattson, in a Ford coupe, were struck, and the car very badly damaged, although the boys escaped with minor cuts and bruises. The driver of the other car, a newcomer, by the name of Lee, was coming from a sideroad, onto the highway at a high rate of speed, and in making a wide turn failed to see the approaching coupe, and struck it full force. A log at the side of the road made it impossible for the driver of the Ford to turn out although he saw the oncoming car, and could have avoided being struck had there been more space. On Sunday Russel Middling was badly shaken up, but otherwise uninjured when the car he was driving turned over just south of Center. Part of a bushing in the steering gear had worked loose, and the steering wheel locked, causing the car to leave the road when it struck loose soil. Bob Harmeling had rather more than his share of hard luck, when after putting his own car out of commission on Saturday, he overtuned Sunday morning at the bottom of the Cedarhurst hill in his father’s Willy’s-Knight. In his case, like the others, the car was the recipient of the greatest damage. The condition of the Cove road has resulted in a number of cars being stuck, but aside from the damage to tempers and dispositions nothing tragic has yet occurred there. The greatest inconvenience is caused to England & Petersen who find difficulty in getting their big trucks back and forth between Cove and the highway, and to the mail carriers.
Service Of Bus Company Meets With Approval – Judging from the patronage it enjoyed the first day the bus company has every reason to believe that the new extension into Seattle is going to meet with the approval of its Island patrons. On each trip yesterday the bus which has recently been refinished and overhauled for this particular run, had a good load.
Mrs. Hagist To Give Demonstration Lesson – At the Consolidated school at Burton next Wednesday afternoon at 2 o’clock, Mrs. Hagist, well-known kindergarten educator, will hold a meeting for mothers. Hrs. Hagist will give a demonstration lesson for the construction of home-made toys from materials that every mother has at hand. She asks that every mother attending bring the following, a few milk bottle tops; small sized cardboard tube; talcum powder can; a handful of each of peanuts, macaroni and puffed rice; some hemp rope, string and yarn; darning needle; Dixie cup and spoon; breakfast food box with wax paper still on; small paper bag; wrapping paper; several small pieces of gingham or cretonne; scissors; some colored magazine pictures; a suit box. Any mother who can find time to attend this meeting will get many interesting and valuable suggestions that will be helpful in amusing and managing the small first graders and pre-school youngsters.
Burton News Items – Louie Brosseau was arrested and fined for speeding through Burton last week.
Burton News Items – Through the courtesy of Mr. J.M. Staples, our accommodating bus driver a party of Burton people were taken, Monday evening, to the Mukai berry plant where a night crew was sorting and barreling strawberries. An account of this industry was given in the News-Record a short time ago, but a personal visit was an eye opener and a mouth opener to watch the luscious fruit slide over the screens after being washed, into the barrels where a steady stream of sugar preserved them. Mr. Mukai graciously answered all questions and made all feel free to visit any part of the plant and the beautiful rock garden and surroundings.
On Monday evening Mrs. Grace Petersen and Mrs. Dolly Tjomsland visited the West Seattle Chapter of O.E.S. On Tuesday evening they visited Ionia Chapter, in Seattle, accompanied by Mrs. Mary Clark, Mrs. Agnes L. Smock and Martin Tjomsland.
Mr. and Mrs. Joe Dawson, of Seattle, are occupying the Cronander cottage on the West Side. Mrs. Dawson and Mrs. Cronander are sisters, so ti was rather convenient to have a commercial garage in the family a few days ago when Mr. Dawson’s car failed to pull out of the slough that will someday be the new Cove road. The Met-Cro wrecker quickly extricated him from his difficulty.
With their wives at the beach for the summer the Vashon business men are wondering if a community kitchen wouldn’t be a good thing. On the other hand they would miss their morning gossip over coffee and toast at Tim’s.
Will Quick is again back at work at the Vashon Barber Shop, and to say the least the patrons of the place are not sorry to see him again. Will has been enjoying the luxury of a short time in a hospital, and a trip to California. He doesn’t say which was the more fun.

June 18, 1931

Island Youngsters Enjoy Big Meeting – This week three youngsters returned to the Island much impressed by what they had seen and heard at the big 4-H encampment ending in Puyallup Saturday. The delegates from the Island were Beulah Fitzpatrick, Elsie Huston and George Nelson. Although the 4-H Club work is a comparatively new thing on the Island, and only a small group realize the importance to the country boy or girl of the training which comes through the work, its value is inestimable.
Wins In National Contest – A letter received Wednesday morning from the headquarters of the Society of American Florists in Indianapolis, Ind., conveyed to Naomi Bethea, of Ellisport, the welcome news that she won first sectional prize in a national flower appreciation contest. To the twelve-year old young lady the fifty dollar check which the letter contained looked like a lot of money. The fact that Naomi had sent in the work that won the prize about two months ago, and had almost forgotten it added to the thrill of learning that she was a prize winner.
Accident On Heights’ Hill – On Sunday, while driving from his driveway onto the highway Alex Stewart’s car was struck by a large auto coming down the hill. Although much heavier than the car Mr. Stewart was driving the other car suffered the greater damage. None of the occupants of either car were injured other than minor cuts, bruises and shock.
Extension of Bus Line Proving Very Popular – That the new innovation of the local bus line in running into Seattle twice each week day, and once on Sunday is a real convenience to Island dwellers as proven by the large number of patrons who are taking advantage of it. One Burton commuter, who has traveled back and forth for a number of years says that the present arrangement cuts off more than two hours from his day in the city. Two hours can be a lot of time, particularly when one of them is at the end of the day when one naturally prefers to slumber, rather than view the Island and Sound, lovely as they may be on occasion.
Ferry Hearing To Be Held, Monday June 22 – At 9:30 Monday morning, June 22, at the Chamber of Commerce in Seattle there will be a hearing before the Department of Public Works that will be of interest to Island residents. This hearing is for the purpose of listening to testimony which shall assist members of the board in deciding whether a franchise shall be granted to Capt. N.G. Christensen, permitting him to operator a ferry line from Biloxi into Seattle. No doubt this service would be a big help to the residents of the west side of the Island, especially those who take their produce to Seattle.
Vashon Barber Shop Changes Ownership – This week a deal was closed in which Mrs. Angenette Lee sold the Vashon Barber Shop to Mr. and Mrs. C.C. Wagner, of Spokane, who took possession at once. Mr.and Mrs. Wagner have both had considerable experience in barber and beauty shop work and deciding that they wanted a shop of their own came to Seattle where Mr. Wagner had spent some time a number of years ago. Mr. and Mrs. Wagner are young people, with a small son, two years of age. The Vashon Barber Shop was opened five years ago by Harry Lee, and since his death almost two years ago, it has been operated by Will Quick. Mr. Quick’s future plans are indefinite, but since he regards his home with Mrs. Pyle the nearest like his own home it is likely that he will be returning to the Island quite often.
Celebrates Sixth Birthday – Stewart Campbell, who recently had the experience of a session in a Seattle hospital, and a major operation, was very able to enjoy the celebration of his sixth birthday June 11th. The young friends who helped his celebrate were Norma and Bennie Menees, Ed Babcock, Bernice Deppman, Patsy, Paul, Clinton and Lee Harrington. A tool box full of tools and a real knife made him realize that he is growing up fast.
Burton News Items – The cooking department of Burton Hotel is now under the management of Mrs. Taylor from Seattle and her two daughters, who intend to make a success of this part of hotel life. We hope the patronage will justify the continuance of this needed business in Burton.
Work has again been started on the Armstrong road which was begun last summer. Workmen are now slashing in the vicinity of the Spalding place, and in a short time the work will begin in real earnest constructing the final section of a road that will serve a number of families.

June 25, 1931

Stage Line Buys Car – To handle the increased business created by the new schedule the stage company this week purchased a Lincoln sedan. This car will be used in place of the large buses whenever it is possible, as with it trips can be made more quickly.
Committee Chosen For Dock Dedication – At an executive committee meeting of the Vashon Island Commercial Club this week it was decided to hold the dock opening Saturday, July 18 in conjunction with the Vashon Business Men’s Club carnival. The members of the committee appointed to have charge of the arrangements are Dr. Grandy, Dr. Bennet, W.D. Clark, E.H. Miller, W. Coy Meredith, C.F. VanOlinda and R.W.F. Martin. The committee will arrange a program that will probably take not more than an hour and will in no way interfere with the carnival.
Piers For Dock Span Completed – Tuesday night the crew working on the new North End Dock poured the last cement, completing the piers upon which the span will operate. Victor Haner, in charge of the work, stated that all concerned were relieved to be through “working with the tide.” As soon as the concrete has sufficiently hardened and the steel towers put up the span will be brought in by scow. With the work progressing now at top speed the new dock will be ready for use about the middle of July but will probably not be used previous to the formal opening and dedication which will take place the afternoon of the 17th.
Summer School To Be Held At Center – The summer school for pre-school children which has been in progress at the Burton building for the past two weeks will be transferred to the Center building, where work will continue, beginning next Monday. This school is being conducted by Mrs. Hagist, national worker for the Nationa Kindergarten Association. She is being assisted by Mrs. Selma VanHouse.
Prices Could Be Worse – While the conditions here on the Island among egg producers are bad enough it may be a certain comfort to know that there are other places worse off than here. Word comes from Idaho this week that egg prices over there have about touched bottom. Producers that “trade out” their eggs in feed, or some other commodity are getting ten cents a dozen for standards, while if they sell for cash they receive about eight cents. Here on the coast the same kind of eggs are bringing more than twice that price.
Howard Hansen and L.C. Beall, Jr. attended the convention in Seattle last week of the state bankers. Both derived much benefit and inspiration from the meeting, particularly those sessions held in the open on various golf courses.
Dockton News – The fishing boats “Good Partner,” “Kaross II,” and “Flying Fish” have left for the salmon banks.
Dockton News – Almost every on in the community was present at the barbeque held on Stuckey’s Beach last Saturday night.
Burton News Items – Gordon Bogh has joined the Navy and expects to leave some time in July for the South, probably San Diego. Wilford Akehurst has a job up at the Mountain for the summer, so the boys are scattering as the way opens up.
Burton News Items – Notice has been received from Washington that Burton post office has been assigned to third class, effective July 1st, 1931.

July 1931

July 2, 1931

Junior Orthopedic Guild Organizes – The Junior Orthopedic Guild met at the home of Mrs. Wallace Beall Saturday afternoon, June 27. During the afternoon the girls worked on scrapbooks and puzzles to send to the hospital. Elections of officers was held and the following girls were elected: President, Mary Snell; first vice-president, Virginia Jeffers; second vice-president, Charlotte Krokset; secretary, Ezna Clyde; corresponding secretary, Phyllis Schwartz; first treasurer, Joyce Harmeling; second treasurer, Geneva Jeffers.
Railing Gives Way, Causes Fall Of Twelve Feet – Mrs. A.E. Young, of Burton, met with quite a bad accident Sunday at the Odd Fellows’ Hall at Center. After church services she and Mrs. Rees while chatting were leaning against a railing at the back of the building which gave way, precipitating both about twelve feet below. Mrs. Young was not as fortunate as Mrs. Rees who was not injured, but both received a shock from which it will take time to recover.
Picnic At Dockton On Fourth – An annual all day picnic will be held July Fourth on the Stuckey beach. During the day there will be a program of games and contests, with a fine display of fireworks in the evening. This picnic is such an enjoyable affair that young and old look forward to it with anticipation. Dockton has a reputation for community good times that few places anywhere can equal. According to all reports this year will be no exception.
Will Play On Island Course – Gov. Hartley informed R.W.F. Martin that he and Mrs. Hartley, and Mr. and Mrs. Sam Humes would make up a foursome to play over the Island course the morning of July 18th. This is a chance for local golf fans to find out of the state’s highest official can give them any pointers on their game.
Tacoma Woman Dies On Dock – After driving at breakneck speed from Burton to the Tahlequah dock, in presumably a race to reach Tacoma before death overtook her Mrs. Bessie Haskins, 59 years of age, died just as she drove her car onto the dock. Only the presence of mind of her companion in the front seat prevented the car from running off of the dock. Mrs. Haskins, a successful realtor and business woman, with a number of associates had spent the afternoon with a Miss Bell, who is spending the summer at Burton beach. The occasion was the retirement of Mrs. Haskins as president of the Zonta Club, an organization of business women of South Tacoma.
Lily Show Draws Hundreds Of Visitors – Despite confusion of published dates, continuous rainy weather, as well as other unfavorable weather conditions the 1931 Vashon Island lily show was equal to any of the past five years. Although some had been afraid that the interest in lilies was dying out such proved not to be the case. The registry book showed that about five hundred visitors registered, while a good many visitors, particularly local people did not trouble to register. The lists showed visitors from Montana, California, Kansas, Idaho, Illinois, and even as far east as West Virginia and Pennsylvania.
Dockton News – Miss Anita Wessing, daughter of Capt. J. Wessing of the tank steamer Bacoi, is visiting Mr. and Mrs. Planchard. The “Bacoi” laid up for almost a year here during one of the oil slumps when there were more boats than orders, and Capt. Wessing and family made many friends here. His boat trades between San Pedro and South America now.
Among the many visitors on Saturday were state representative Rex. S. Roudebush and John A. Rea, of Tacoma. Mr. Roudebush is a probable candidate for Congress from the new sixth district, of which the Island is a part. While here Mr. Rea and Mr. Roudebush visited the lily show and the Mukai rock gardens.
Stuart MacHarrie, of Seattle is managing the Harmeling miniature golf course. Several new features have been added, and now the horse-shoe players will have an opportunity to display their skill.
Burton News Items – Mr. A.H. Kalland has leased his property next to Burton Trading Co. store to T.W. Butler and family of Tacoma, who moved in this week. Mr. Butler will use the front room of the house for a barber shop.

July 9, 1931

New Garage Opens – A new garage has been opened near the Judd Creek bridge by C.W. Goodwin, brother-in-law of Dr. Coutts. Mr. and Mrs. Goodwin are located in the Wylde home west of Ellisport.
Burton Woman Injured From Fall – As the aftermath of an accident occurring about ten day ago, Mrs. A.E. Young was taken to a Tacoma hospital this week. At the close of the morning service of the Island Community church, at the Odd Fellows’ Hall, Center, Mrs. A.E. Young and Mrs. M. Rees, both of Burton, were leaning against the railing of the side porch when it gave way and both fell about 12 feet to the ground. Instead of falling directly to the ground both women rolled down the steps which prevented an even more serious injury. Mrs. Rees was not hurt, other than the shock, but Mrs. Young suffered an injury that has kept her confined to her bed ever since. Examination at the hospital to which she was taken disclosed that one of the vertebrae of her spine has been wrenched out of place, and it will be necessary for her to wear a cast until the injured area has had time to heal.
Vashon State Bank Issues Statement – The Vashon State Bank has just issued its financial statement. This statement is clear indication of a safe investment policy. The bank is carrying a large amount in cash available. Although the required amount of cash on deposits is 15 percent this bank is holding 35 percent in cash. The investment account carries 36 percent of deposits in liquid bonds and warrants. This gives that bank a total of 71 percent of deposits available on a moment’s notice. 29 percent of deposits is invested in loans on first mortgages, collateral loans and loans of conservative nature to customers. The bank attributes this strong cash position to a great extent to the sound condition of the community in which it is located, and to a careful investment policy.
Billiard And Card Room Opens At Vashon – With the opening last week of a card and billiard room in the Deppman building, formerly occupied by the Met-Cro Garage, every available business building in Vashon is now occupied. Geo. W. Wiley, the proprietor of the place, after looking over other locations pretty thoroughly came here because he judged conditions to be better than elsewhere. Mr. and Mrs. Wiley are living in the Nye cottage, coming to the Island from Lake Stevens, where they were in business two years. They feel that they will like it here not only as a place to carry on their business, but as a place to live.
Thermometer Hits Roof For Season - Many lives were endangered Wednesday by the seemingly simple remark, “How do you like this weather?” The heat seemed to be about as popular as the rain was a few weeks ago, but up to date no one has been reported as saying it was unusual to have it so hot. This morning’s moderation was, however, a great relief to all, except a few who were experiencing for the first time our wonderful climate. It is hard for those who have baked for many summers past to get out of the habit. They suffered from Thursday morning’s coolness. In Seattle the two official weather bureau thermometer reported as the maximum 91.7 degrees at Boeing Field and 90 degrees at the Hoge Building. Here on the Island the official thermometer, according to E.O. Ramquist registered a maximum of 86 degrees and a minimum of 67 degrees from 8 o’clock Wednesday morning until 8 o’clock Thursday morning.
An Editorial - A number of Island people have been affected by the affairs of the Home Savings Bank, in addition to a larger number who had their savings in the Puget Sound Savings. Co-incident with this report which has stirred the Northwest will be made the quarterly reports of many small banks, including our own, doing business on a safe and sane principal. Here in the Northwest only a few of the so-called “small banks” have been endangered by the present financial condition, while farther east an alarming percentage have had to suspend operations, particularly in the middle west. Could there be any greater argument in favor of putting your trust, (as well as your money) in “the home bank?”
The Report of the Financial Condition of the Vashon State Bank, at the close of business on the 30th day of June, 1931, shows total assets of $323,115.10.
With the damage that was done to the small fruit by the recent rains it is encouraging to know that the hay crop and gardens were benefitted by the unusual amount of moisture.
In an effort to get at the cause of a peculiar epidemic that has been prevalent in several widely separated communities of the Island a member of the staff of the county health department visited the Island this week. Although there was no particular reason to suspect the water supply samples for analysis were taken from the various water systems.
Ellisport Items – A party composed of Lieut. And Mrs. H.W. Ferguson, of March Aviation Field, Calif; Mr. and Mrs. H.P. Ferguson, Portland, Ore.; and Dr. and Mrs. T.Rex Baldwin also of Portland left Ellisport harbor on the two masted power schooner “Sinbad” Wednesday morning for a month’s cruise along the coast of Alaska. The three families have taken summer cottages at the McClintock resort where they have left their children in the care of nurses and relatives.
Ellisport Items – Mr. and Mrs. Wallace Beall, of Vashon, were in Ellisport Wednesday of last week to wish bon voyage to the party sailing on the “Sinbad” to Alaska. The Fergusons are brothers of Mrs. Beall.

July 16, 1931

Carnival Paraphenalia Is Now In Readiness – The paraphernalia for the carnival to be held Friday evening and all day Saturday of this week is already on the grounds of the Island Club and is being made ready for a “bigger and better” affair than any previous one. The chief attraction has been and always will be the merry-go-round, for humanity hasn’t changed a lot since the first merry-go-round started doing business. Each year the manager of the carnival depends on this amusement to attract the crowd. Other attractions may vary in popularity and interest.
Dock Store Being Built – The fear expressed of few weeks ago that a store would not be built on the new dock has not been realized and this week county employees are building a fine store and waiting room, with living quarters also for the person operating the store. There will be five rooms in addition to the large waiting room. Mrs. Adelle Adams will probably be moved and located in her new quarters by Saturday, and will be ready to take care of customers. The dock is completed and will be ready for use in every detail by Saturday. Everything has been finished in a thorough and complete manner, and is a credit to the workmen who have had part in its construction. The electricity operated span is unique in dock construction in the Northwest, and its completeness is a tribute to the Island it serves.
Fox River Butter Co. Discontinues Station – This week the Fox River Butter Company discontinued the station maintained here for the past five years. Lack of sufficient business was given as the reason for the move. Customers still desiring to deal with the company will be served out of the Seattle branch it is reported. The Thompson building at Vashon vacated by the Fox River will be immediately utilized by England & Petersen, whose steadily increasing business demands more room. The future plans of K.K. Prigg, manager of the Vashon branch of the Fox River, have not as yet been announced but we understand he will probably remain on the Island.
Governor Hartley To Visit Island – Gov. Hartley will visit the Island on Saturday and will be a prominent figure on the program of the dedication. However, he does not intend to waste a minute of the day, but has expressed a desire to see all that the Island has to offer.
Island Remarkably Free From Signs – A news item in a Seattle daily this week stated that in Arizona all signs, signboards and soft drink stands have been ordered off Arizona state highway right-of-ways by the state highway commission. No advertising matter of any nature will be permitted the commission ruled. Tourists and visitors to the Island are constantly remarking about the refreshing absence of these things here on the Island. It is probable that through familiarity with our won natural beauties has come a lack of appreciation of the fact that so many of these hideous blots detract from an enjoyment of the charms nature has provided. It is hard to enjoy the loveliness of a sunset when in your line of vision is a sign telling the men how to make shaving painless; the ladies how to keep kissable; both sexes how to avoid those afflictions that rob one of friends, etc., etc. Our summer resorts have had the good judgement to use small signs in directing the stranger to their doors. About the only thing that could be done to improve the state of things is for all public minded Islanders to stop now and then, and take down the ancient political posters which still bid us cast our vote for someone already in office, or hopelessly relegated to the discard. The best thing we can do is to keep off of the Island signs that detract in any way from the natural beauty of our roads and highways.
Vashon Island Has Own Egg Brand – To better serve the poultrymen on Vashon Island, the firm of England & Petersen has adopted a new system in marketing eggs which is meeting with satisfactory results after being tried for several weeks. All eggs are now packed in printed cases under the E. & P. brand with Puget Sound and Vashon, Washington showing prominently on each case.
Fails To Round Corner, Car Badly Damaged – While returning Monday night from Fragaria, Oscar Sorlie with a party of young people including Bill Wilber, Frances and Marion Barrett, Gertrude Peterson and Wen Kemp had a narrow escape. The latter five, all of Fragaria, have been picking berries on the Sorlie ranch this summer and Oscar had taken them home for a new hour’s visit. Being unfamiliar with the road Oscar, while driving at about 45 miles an hour, attempted to stop quickly at a hidden curve. His car, a practically new Essex, continued on, up a steep bank, and as it backed down onto the road was overturned and practically wrecked. Oscar received a small cut on the head, and one of the girls was slightly cut on the leg, but aside from this no one was injured, although the escape was almost miraculous. The car was so badly wrecked that it will require a new body, and it is doubtful if it will be worth repairing. His many friends are mighty sorry that Oscar has had this stroke of bad luck.
Dockton News – J. Jinsen, of the “Nigaros,” troller boat, was home for a few days last week. Jens Nelson, of the boat “B.M.” is in while he is repairing his craft. Arnold Halson, of the “Myrtle May” is in for a few days.

July 23, 1931

Serious Fire At North End of Vashon Island – Campers, who spent Sunday night on the Island leaving a fire burning when they left Monday morning, were responsible for the serious fire at the North End which is still filling the air with smoke. The fire originated on the extreme northwest corner of the Island on the beach property of Alex Stewart and spread from there to the dense timber. About 80 acres of timber and underbrush was burned over before the fire was controlled on Monday. On Tuesday it again broke out, and it still burning, though there seems to be no danger of its getting out of control. Reports in Seattle papers stated that twenty houses were endangered, and that two were burned. Sheriff Shattuck states that to his knowledge that is not correct; that no houses were destroyed, nor were any endangered. Fire Warden Courtwright and one of his deputies responded to the call for help and arrived quickly with the truck of fire-fighting equipment. They went by boat from the North End dock. Effective work was done with the pump they brought with them. This portable pump, which can be carried on a man’s back, will carry a stream of water 1500 feet. In this case water was pumped from the Sound. Ten or twelve local men assisted the fire warden. On Tuesday when the fire again broke out it was necessary to backfire.
Many Improvements Being Made At Vashon – The Petersen house at Vashon is the scene of a lot of activity on the part of John Jensen and his crew of carpenters. Another story is being added to the house, and when completed it will be one of the most attractive dwellings in the village. Dr. McMurray is also improving his property, adding a sleeping porch, and painting his houses and office. The Metzenberg home is undergoing some improvements. And the Thompson building, soon to be occupied by England & Petersen is being raised and repaired, so taking all of the activities hereabouts it is hard to believe that the “depression” is seriously affecting us around here.
Vashon College Cornerstone To Be Opened – Vashon College Alumni is planning a final meeting of the association at Burton, probably in early September, when a history of the college from its inception will be given a renewal of old friendships will take place, and the “cornerstone” which lay buried in the northeast corner of the Commercial building for some thirty-five years, and which, through the instructions of Fred Sutter as to its location, was taken from its hiding place last week and is now in charge of Mrs. Sutter, will be opened at that gathering and contents given as souvenirs, with other memorials of the college. Notices of the event and date will be sent out later.
No Change In Dairy Business – In order to set as naught, the rumors that there has been a change in the management of the Houghton Dairy we have been asked to tell our readers that from now on this business will be conducted just as it has in the past. It is true that a change was contemplated. From current reports the Houghtons had reason to feel that their confidence had been abused, but Mrs. Houghton, with characteristic kindliness stated, “Everything is just as it was before the change was contemplated. We have no hard feelings toward anyone. We are all here on the Island to do the best we can, and expect to remain right here in business for a long time, serving well the people who have so kindly given us their business.”
Lovely Weather For Dedication Of Dock – No lovelier day than Saturday proved to be ever existed, and the setting for the opening of the new North End dock was indeed perfect. The large number of Islanders and visitors present for the occasion were able to enjoy the program because of the microphone and loud speakers provided by the Standard Oil Company. Marking as it does an important step forward in the development of the Island, and since it was largely through his influence, that this dock was built, Commissioner Brinton was fittingly the chairman of the day. Col. Brinton first introduced Thos. Hunt, county engineer, Thos. Blum and Victor Haner, the three men responsible for the work of building the dock. Mr. Hunt officially turned the dock over to the commissioners and Mr. Brinton accepted it in the name of the board.
Governor Hartley Enjoys Golf Game – Apparently Saturday was made to order for the visit of Governor Hartley and his party to the Island. Several visitors took advantage of the opportunity to enjoy a game of golf. After a game played with Howard Hansen, club champion and L.C. Beall, champion enthusiast, the Governor decided that the local course was indeed a good one, since he was able to defeat two excellent players who were familiar with it. After luncheon the visitors made a tour of the Island which included the Laughlin Lily Farm, the Beall Greenhouses, the Mukai rock garden, the Stevens lodge at the North End, and the lovely grounds of the Twickenham estate.
Streets Of Vashon Washed Frequently – While many small towns may have reason to complain of dusty streets this is not true of Vashon. This is due to the fact that it is paved; that the Business Men’s Club has the enterprise to own and operate a fire truck which can be used for the purpose of washing the streets; but more than all the good citizenship of H.C. Cronander, of the Met-Cro, is responsible. For any man who will come to work at six o’clock in the morning that the rest of the residents may enjoy a clean town can’t be called anything else than a “good citizen.”
Carnival Provides Fun For Islanders – The 1931 Carnival has proven that the Island people get a lot of fun out of this yearly venture of the Vashon Business Men’s Club. Although the volume of business done this year was not as great as in previous years the expenses were proportionately smaller, and the organization finds itself with a comfortable balance in the treasury with which to carry on the year’s activities. This year the money will be spent for street lighting and for meeting the money pledged for the support of the Vashon Boy Scout troop.
Ellisport Items – We are hearing many words of appreciation on the condition of our Ellisport streets since being oiled. Aside from the comfort to the residents and regular users of the streets it give the visitors from the mainland a good idea of the up-to-date spirit of the citizens of Ellisport who refuse to eat dust all summer.
Our attention was recently called to the fact, as we pass it on to our readers, that very clever tally cards can be had for the asking from Mrs. L.D. Houghton. These are provided through the courtesy of the Carnation Milk Company.

July 30, 1931

Local Express Office On Island – This week the Vashon Auto Freight announced that it had taken the local agency for the Railway Express. Final arrangements were made on Tuesday, when E.A. Muncey, superintendent for the Washington, Alaska-Yukon division of the company, and R.G. McLain, traffic agent for the North Pacific department visited the Island. The Railway Express is one of the principal express companies of the United States.
Sells Doll Hospital – Mayreld Ramquist recently disposed of her doll hospital which she has successfully conducted in the Arcade Building for the past several years. Starting on a small scale the business has grown to a satisfactory proportion, and Miss Ramquist has built up a splendid patronage. Her customers, particularly the small ones, whose bables she has cured of their ills, are sorry to learn that she has decided to sell her business.
Two New Delivery Cars For Vashon – The fleet of delivery cars operating out of Vashon has been added to this week. C.G. Kimmel has purchased a Ford panel delivery to take care of the increasing business. England & Petersen has added a ton and a half Dodge truck for lumber delivery. It is being driven by K.K. Prigg who was added this week to the E. & P. force.
Road Construction Now In Operation – The Island roads are receiving a good deal of attention these days from the local road crew, under the supervision of C. Rhulen. Work is being pushed on the Armstrong road and crews are busy from the south, as far as Spalding’s and Lewis’ and from the north at Corbin’s. The gravel surface is being put on at the south end. About $1,000 will be spent in improving the Rosehilla-Manzanita road, and will give the summer campers a means of getting out onto the Island, instead of having to depend entirely on the boat for communication with the outside world. This improvement will also be of benefit to a few school children attending the Dockton school. The survey of the South End has been completed, but as yet the facts in the case have not been made public. The assumption is, however, that this road will run from Burton to Shawnee along the beach, back of Magnolia Beach and Harbor Heights to the Sheffield corner, where it will follow the old survey, down the gulch to the Tahlequah dock. The farm to market road on the West Side, being done under contract, is still almost impassable but will be a fine addition to that section of the Island when completed. This road beginning at the Colvos store runs south, the first unit ending at the Cove road. The second unit embraces the section from the Fjeldal place past the old Statelen place, joining the Thorsen road. When completed this new road, together with the Lamb road will provide a fine wide road from Colvos to Tahlequah. Work is also being done on the Cove road from the Waldron place to the lateral highway at the Colvos store.
Drinking Fountain Installed – The first purchase made by the Business Men’s Club, with funds from the carnival, was the drinking fountain installed this week beside the Thompson building recently vacated by the Fox River Butter Company. The work of installing this much needed improvement was done by T.N. Thompson and T.J. Steffenson.
New Electric Cable Is Now In Service – Monday night the work on the installation of the new electric cable recently laid by the Puget Sound Light & Power Company was completed, and the two cables are now furnishing power to Island consumers. Last week the local crew completed the construction of a new cable rack with which current can be switched from one cable to the other without any delay in service. They also completed a regulator rack, which insures constant voltage and the current in practically all parts of the Island is now kept at a twenty-four hour uniformity. These will be now no occasion for a variation of the load carried by the power lines, regardless of the deman made. Previously, when the entire current used by the Island came on one cable it was unavoidable that there was a variation in the current, particularly when the gravel bunkers were in operation and using a heavy voltage. It would be a very unusual accident that could put both cables out of commission, and in case one required repairs either is capable of carrying sufficient load for the local demand. Those of us who have lived for a number of years on the Island, recall the instances when the Island was without power and lights for days at a time. It is hard now to realize that December of 1922 when the one cable was broken by the anchor of a drifting boat, and we were without power, lights, many without water, during an unusually cold spell.

August 1931

August 6, 1931

Airplane Visits Ellisport – Ellisport has been visited several times lately by an airplane which landed gracefully on the harbor and motored up to McClintock’s Point, where it took on passengers for several trips. This was an unusually interesting sight for the many visitors on the beach. Among the Island people noticed among the crown were Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Poultney and children, The Fentons, Mr. and Mrs. Wilbur, Mr. and Mrs. George Schmith and baby, Mr. and Mrs. Richard Fuller, Mr. and Mrs. Hearst, the J.H. and Louis Roddas and Mr. Frank Kingsbury.
Kids’ Karnival One Large Success – Financially and socially the Kids’ Karnival, sponsored by Billie Robinson, Bobbie Beall, and Donald Urquhart, at the home of C.J. Robinson on Saturday was a huge success. From seven until ten the cries of the “bally hooers” could be heard advertising their wares.
Cars Collide – A collision of the Weiss delivery truck and the Heydeen Ford occurred last week at the Menees corner. No one was hurt but the Heydeen car was badly damaged, and fender of the delivery truck smashed. Mr. Heydeen, who recently returned from the hospital, and is not yet as strong as he was before his illness, was badly shaken up.
First Unit Of Road Finished – This week the first unit of the farm to market road on the West Side, from Towne’s Store to the Cove road was completed and turned over to the county by Rogers-Olds, the contractors in charge of the work. These men have run into a lot of hard luck, particularly in the neighborhood of the Cove M.E. church, where it was necessary to build a bulkhead that cut deep into their profits on the job. Bad weather has delayed the work, and while the Island people had occasion to complain over the delay in completion it has been equally trying for the contractors.
Adds Another Truck To Island Concern – Less than a year ago the Williams brothers, Digby and Donald, took over the Shell Oil Company agency for Vashon Island. They built tanks and warehouse on Quartermaster Harbor, and started in with one truck. They had rather rough sledding at first, but kept on the job, giving consistently good service; not whining about the “depression and hard times”; giving 100 cents worth of value for every dollar spent with them. The result of the effort of this service is that during this summer they have enjoyed a splendid business that far surpassed their greatest expectations. Digby, who has been managing the business for the greater part of the time recently has been about the busiest person on the Island. Not long ago he was forced to get a new truck, as the original truck with which they started out was not big enough to handle the loads he had to deliver.
Local Merchants Will Appreciate This – Last Friday morning the Vashon post office lobby was filled with impatient patrons, waiting for the arrival of Sam Morris with the regular morning’s quota. Due at 8:15 he finally arrived an hour late, puffing and blowing, with plenty to say. Bag after bag was hauled out of his truck. Then the horrible truth was told. The mail truck had broken down under the weight of its burden, the semi-annual contribution of a certain mail order house to the happiness and prosperity of Vashon. The catalogs had arrived!
This week the work of graveling the Cedarhurst end of the Armstrong road was completed.

August 13, 1931

Chicken Thieves Busy On Island – According to the various complaints chicken stealing seems to be the order of the day, and the offenders apparently are getting bolder.
Mae’s Sweet Shop Changes Management – On Tuesday, Mr. and Mrs. A.H. Johnson took possession and became the owners of the Sweet Shop at Vashon opened and operated for the past two months by Mrs. Mae Naugle and Mrs. Cleo Gordon. Poor health forced Mrs. Naugle to give up the work.
Sells West Side Property – Dr. V.C. Coutts recently sold his piece of waterfront property situated a short distance south of Cove, to Mrs. Thos. R. O’Niell and Mrs. E. Brooker, of Seattle, who will divide the lot and build summer camps.
Island Club Now Marked – The Island Club is now fittingly marked with a handsome gold-leaf sign, the gift of Alex Stewart.
Public Invited To Hear Free Lecture – The Christian Science Society of Vashon-Maury Island announces a free lecture entitled “Christian Science, the Solution of Human Problems” by Paul Stark Seely, C.S.B., member of the board of lectureship of the Mother Church, the First Church of Christ, Scientist, in Boston, Massachusetts, in the Union High School auditorium, Sunday afternoon, August 16th, at 4:0 o’clock.
Burton News Items - That hydroplane that has been sailing around on land and sea for several weeks, came to Burton first, and after “airing” a number of Burton people, then she or it went to Ellisport for further operations. (We were chastised for not reporting this before!) So much transpiring we can’t keep track!
Burton News Items – During the wind storm Sunday afternoon, a large limb of an elm tree in the Butler yard in Burton broke from the main tree but fortunately did not strike the house or office building In the next lot, nor injure any of the family who had been in the yard a few minutes previous.
Don Tjomsland is now employed in the pool hall at Vashon, Mr. Willey having found that with the excellent patronage he is enjoying he could not handle the business alone.
Martin Tjomsland is building a shelter pavilion on the Island golf course.
Harry Coffin is doing an excellent job painting the new sign on the building in Vashon soon to be occupied by the egg packing department of England & Petersen. He is reproducing the new design recently adopted by this company and stamped on every crate they send out.
On Sketching Trip – Miss Helen Rhodes, of the University of Washington, part of the time one of Ellisport’s residents, writes to friends there, of the delightful summer she is having, studying at Harvard and sketching through the New England states. These experiences were made possible for Miss Rhodes by the award of a scholarship from the Carnegie foundation.

August 20, 1931

Local Distributor for Kristoferson Products – This week’s issue carries the announcement by Arnold Nelson that he is the Island distributor for the Kristoferson dairy products.
More Chickens Stolen – This week E.C. Thompson discovered the loss one morning of about twenty choice fryers. His feelings were in no manner assuaged by the fact that the visitors who made way with his chickens left in their place an empty whiskey bottle.
Lack Of Barricade Results In Accident – Lack of proper barricades on the old Cove road resulted in an accident Sunday afternoon that might have been more serious than it proved to be. A summer resident, by the name of Haugen, was driving north on the new road, and wishing to go up the hill back of the Cove Methodist church turned on the old road in front of the Ramquist place. The whole thing was one of those affairs that no one, including the driver can figure out, but the net result was that the Buick touring car took a nose dive into space, and landed with its front on solid ground at the bottom of the chasm and one wheel still resting on what used to be the old road. The Met-Cro wrecker had some difficulty in extricating the car from the position it was in, but finally succeeded. Needless to say the road will be properly barricaded in the future so that there will be no possibility of any driver mistaking the course.
Island Receives Large Shipment Of Straw – The drivers for England & Petersen; all of the Auto Freight men that can be spared; two drivers from the Port Orchard branch of England & Petersen, and three other men have been working hard for the past two days unloading, delivering and storing two scow loads, 110 tons of straw, shipped in from Whidbey Island.
Old Dock Presents Unsightly Appearance – Much unfavorable comment is being aroused by the unsightly appearance of the old dock at the North End. The span has been removed, the roof torn off the old store, other parts have been removed, with the new result that the entire structure mars the landscape. It is rumored that the lumber is to be given to a local organization for some much needed construction work, so let’s all hope that it will be speedily removed, and all traces made way with. It the old days bees (not the kind that sting) used to be popular. We offer the suggestion that the Commercial Club have a dock razing bee. Properly garbed in bathing suits for emergencies, and armed with wrecking bars, axes and saws much could be accomplished in a day. There isn’t a doubt in the world that the ladies would furnish the necessary food. (And if the men don’t get busy there is a chance that some of those capable Island women may show them up and do the work themselves.).
Dockton News – Mr. L. Plancich of the boat “Ikoros,” is in from Neah Bay to visit his family for a few day.
Burton News Items – Just watch Fred Vye guiding his “Austin tractor” between the rows of his currant bushes, plowing up the sod and doing various other stunts, and see if you don’t wish you had one!
Burton News Items – Owing to the illness of several of the members and the death of flowers, the Burton Garden Club, at its meeting last week, voted to postpone the flower show until sometime in the future under more favorable conditions.
Still more changes in the village of Vashon. Under the direction of his father, W.D. better known as “Tim” Ward Clark cut down the trees on the lot between the post office and Thompson’s market. The building at the back of the lot has also been repainted. There is only one disease more contagious than small-pox, and that is painting.

August 27, 1931

New School Director At Center School – To fill a vacancy created by the resignation of Mr. Geo. Thompson as member of the Center School board, Mr. Neil Flenner has been appointed. The board has been reorganized as follows: P.S. Pettelle, chairman, Otto Therkelsen, clerk, and Neil Flenner.
Destructive Fire Checked – On Tuesday fire which started from negligence on the part of workmen burning an old outbuilding near Vashon Gardens, threatened to destroy a fine new chicken house belonging to N.J. Heydine. Fortunately the wind changed and this with the showers which fell in the evening carried the fire away from the building. Mr. Heydine is just recovering from a serious illness, and has been the victim of a number of misfortunes. The loss of the chicken house would have proven a disastrous climax.
Beulah Park Grows In Popularity – The camp meeting and Young People’s Institute which recently convened at Beulah Park, on the West Side, was unusually well attended, and proved that each year these meetings under the auspices of the Scandinavian branch of the Methodist church, are growing in popularity. Those in attendance came from Montana, Oregon and Eastern Washington. Enlarged housing facilities have been added, and eight new cottages built. Money has been secured for the building of a new tabernacle before next summer.
We were asked if it was “news” when a boy received a bicycle as a gift. It wouldn’t take a boy, or a mother of boys long to answer that question. Billie Robinson is the proud possessor of a bicycle that is just a lot above average, for it was brought to him, clear from Chicago, by his uncle and aunt.
To Customers And Friends Of Our Dairy – We would like to explain a bill of sale of our milk route to Mr. Nelson, signed by Mr. Houghton. The care of our dairy and the delivery of our milk became heavy work, so when Mr. Nelson proposed a partnership, he to deliver the milk and we to supply it, we thought it a good plan. Mr. Nelson asked for a bill of sale of the route to help him hold the present customers, get new ones and make better contracts for the milk we bought. We are not experienced in these things and did not know how such a paper could be used in spite of our understandings. So Mr. Houghton signed this bill of sale given only to help Mr. Nelson carry out his part of the agreements. Mr. Nelson never paid us a cent for it. There was no understanding that he would. We never even thought of parting with our customers. How could we while keeping all our cows? After getting the bill of sale Mr. Nelson stopped taking our milk without notifying us and a large amount spoiled on our hands. What he has tried to do would either rob us of our route outright or force us to sell on terms he made and that would ruin us. We are told that no money or valuable consideration whatever being given or received, the bill of sale has no force in law and we are holding to our rights. So we are again delivering our own milk and we appeal to our old friends and neighbors to stay with us while we work our way out. Mrs. Houghton. pd. adv.

September1931

September 3, 1931

May Have Lumber From Old Dock – On September 12th the old Kingsbury dock is to be abandoned by the order of the county commissioners. Bridge supervisor Blum has requested the News-Record to notify in this manner those who desire any of the timbers and planking of the old structure that they may take them any time after September 12th.
College Reunion Sunday, Sept. 6 – At Sunday noon former students of Vashon College, at one time the most exclusive school on Puget Sound, will seat themselves around the tables at the Masonic Hall at Burton for what will probably be the last meeting of this sort. At this time the box placed in the cornerstone of the original building will be opened and its contents brought to view after a burial of more than thirty years. A history of the college written by two former heads will also be a feature of the meeting. Alumnae from several points in Washington and California are expected to be present. It will be an intensely interesting meeting, one that will bring to light much of the history of the Island that is now recalled by only a few. It is through the activities of Mrs. Augusta Hunt, postmaster of Burton, that the old cornerstone was rescued, and she has been at work for weeks perfecting the plans for the reunion on September 6th.
Maury Merchant Remodels Store – W.S. Rendall has just about completed the work of redecorating and remodeling his Maury Island store, and it is not gleaming with white paint. Mr. Rendall did the work himself, and has proven that he is an expert at other things than store keeping. In addition to new paint, Mr. Rendall has added new skylights and new lighting fixtures, and his store is as neat and up to date as any neighborhood store could be.
Apple Tree In Full Bloom At Burton – An unusual phenomenon exists at the Phillips’ home west of Burton where a snow apple tree, loaded with ripening fruit is blossoming. Ten branches bear both blossoms and fruit. It is not unusual for trees bearing only a little fruit to blossom late in the summer, but it is seldom that one well loaded with fruit will develop blooms. This tree is evidently affected by the “depression” and is doing its best to provide plenty of applesauce for Capt. and Mrs. Phillips this winter.
Three Auto Accidents During Past Week – Three auto accidents have occurred on the Island in the past week. While driving on Maury Island, just after having filled the tank of gas, Chuck Hayes suffered the total loss of his Ford truck. The supposition is that gas spilled while the tank was being filled was ignited by a short. Fortunately the car was insured, and the finance company from whom it was being purchased replaced it with a Ford coupe. The Poultney car was struck by one driven by a Filipino, at the Bibbons’ corner. No great damage was done, although Mrs. Poultney was somewhat scratched and bruised. It is hard to say just what phase of the accident startled Mrs. Poultney most. She had a sack full of nice fresh eggs in her lap which ascended from the impact, but in returning earthward descended on her head. With characteristic humor Mrs. Poultney stated that she resembled somewhat an omelet. A more serious accident occurred at the Judd Creek bridge early in the week, when a car driven by Loel Kalland was struck by one being driven by Lloyd Burton. According to reports it was one of those accidents that simply could not be explained, since neither car was being driven at an excessive speed. The drivers, aside from a few bruises were unhurt, but Ed Bensten, who was in the Burton car was so badly injured that his condition is still very grave. From all indications he had received some serious head injury and for several days was unable to talk, though yesterday he showed a slight improvement. Both cars were badly damaged, the Burton car being an almost total wreck.
Collision In Tacoma Completely Wrecks Car – When returning Friday evening from a visit in Chehalis Mr. and Mrs. W.D. Clark were the victims of a collision with another car. Fortunately neither were hurt, but their car was so badly wrecked that it cannot be repaired. A car, driven by a woman, emerged from a side street as they were driving to Point Defiance and struck their car broadside. It was pushed against the curbing with such force that the rear wheels were both smashed. The car overturned, and it is remarkable that the occupants were unhurt. Mr. Clark phoned to the Island for the Met-Cro wrecker to help him bring home the remains; while Gordon Deppman brought Mrs. Clark home by way of Seattle. Vashon just isn’t going to seem the same without Tim’s old “Cad”, and we all mourn the passing of another landmark. Tim hasn’t let his loss interfere with his games of golf, however. He just merely puts his transportation problems to and from the course up to his fellow golfers.
4-H Club Notes – The members of the 4-H Club were invited to hold their August meeting with Elsie Kimmel at Cedarhurst. Elsie was happily surprised to have this take the form of a shower, each member bringing a dainty gift for her room in her new home. The club teacher, Mrs. Copestick, planned a delightful beach party and wiener roast to conclude the afternoon which was enjoyed by all present.
In New Plant – The egg department of England & Petersen is now operating at full blast in the building at Vashon formerly occupied by the Fox River Company. With its constantly growing business this firm rapidly outgrew all available space on its property on the West Side of the street, and is now occupying one of the largest buildings on the east side of the business block. If it keeps on needing more space Vashon will have to stretch out in spite of itself.

September 10, 1931

Many Attend College Reunion – On last Sunday at the Masonic Hall a meeting of unusual interest took place. More than fifty former students of Vashon College, which to the present residents is now but a tradition, gathered for a reunion, supposedly the last. The interest, however, was so great that it was decided to have the reunion every two years. The opening of the box which had been sealed and placed in the cornerstone of Commercial Hall forty years ago was preceded by a memory contest among those who had been present on that occasion, as to what they remembered as having been placed in the box. With the exception of any definite recollection concerning the papers there was a surprisingly accurate recollection of other objects. When opened the box disclosed besides a Bible and hymnal, a number of clippings, programs, catalogs, etc., other articles that were in a perfect state of preservation; boy and girl dolls, dressing in the uniform of the school, a glove buttoner that had belonged to Mrs. Hatch, wife of the founder of the school; a number of coins; a tiny baby doll and perambulator; a silver spoon; all articles that today would not likely be put in cornerstones. The dolls are hand-made, with faces of chamois skin, features of ink, and the girl doll had a heavy head of hair that was not bobbed. Among those present was the one who had originally owned the hair, and who was then Daisy Ross, now Mrs. Allstrum.
Island Chickens Sent To Siam – The daily papers have had much to say of the visit to America of the King of Siam, with his wife and officials who will leave soon from Vancouver. Up to the present, however, nothing has been said of the fact that when they leave they will be accompanied by Vashon Island royalty, with a pedigree as important as many a prince. When the King’s party leaves next Saturday they will take with them four coops of Beall’s pedigreed white leghorn birds, containing four pullets and six cockerels. At Hong Kong they will be transferred to another steamer to complete their journey to Siam.
Improvement On Fauntleroy Dock – Vashon Islanders will soon have as adequate dock facilities at Fauntleroy as they now enjoy at the North End. The contract is to be awarded by the Kitsap County Transportation Company for a 104 by 26 foot extension of the dock at Fauntleroy, and the construction of a waiting room, 40 by 26 feet.
Japanese Visitors To Make Annual Visit – Mr. Hada, of New York and the Commissioner of Japan are expected Monday of next week to make their annual visit to the Beall poultry farm. Each year new stock from the pens of fine pedigreed white leghorn birds is added to the flocks of the Japanese experiment farms, and it is practically always Beall birds that are purchased.
Announcement – Despite the storm of rumor that has circulated concerning by operations on Vashon Island I am still convinced that I desire to remain here and make my home. I hope that as time goes on I shall be able to show the Island people that I am not as I have been painted. When I offered the Houghton Dairy a certified check for $1300 for their milk route it was not with any idea of robbing them. It was what I sincerely considered the full value of what they at that time seemed anxious to sell. Naturally I resented the charges that were made when they changed their minds. I have purchased the Vermeulen Dairy and I hope that as time goes on Il will prove that my entire motive is to build up a business that will permit me to remain on the Island. I feel sure that I can serve the milk users of the Island in such a manner that I will warrant their entire confidence, and interfere in no way with others who are in the same business. – Arnold Nelson.
The enthusiastic gathering of Vashon College alumni and relatives at Masonic Hall, Burton, September 6 at what was supposed to be the last meeting, was so enjoyable that it was voted to meet again in two years and continue meeting every two years. Over fifty were present.
The brass box with contents which was placed in the corner stone of Commercial Hall Vashon College, nearly thirty-nine years ago, will be on exhibition at the Burton Post Office for one week, then closed again for the next re-union two years hence.

September 17, 1931

Heavy Enrollment At Center School – Dealing with generalities is always dangerous, and in making the statement last week that the enrollment in the Island schools, was, as a whole, lighter this year than last we failed to qualify our statement. At Center school the teachers, Mrs. Rodda and Mrs. Lee feel that the school population of the Island is not decreasing at any great rate of speed. Soon after school opened last week an SOS call went out for more desks, and now in the two rooms at Center there are desks in every possible and impossible place.
Vashon Theatre To Be Improved – Already work has been started which will greatly improve the Vashon Theatre. One of the greatest drawbacks the showhouse has had in years past is to be remedied, that of inadequate heat. The heating plant is to be given a complete overhauling and new radiators to be installed in the hallways will do away with the frigidity of the back seats that has heretofore kept winter patrons at home. Heavy drapes to be hung at the back of the main hall and at the top of the stairs to the balcony will do away with drafts. Upholstered seats will be placed in the balcony. Rubber matting has been laid in the lobby and on the stairs. In accordance with their promise when re-opening the theatre Mr. Ganley and Mr. Poultney have shown consistently high class films, and will continue to do so. Coming soon are “Trader Horn” and “Tol’able David.”
Business Buildings Being Improved – This week the appearance of the Van Olinda building at Vashon has been much improved by the installation of two large plate glass windows. The work was done under the supervision of John Jensen. The porch of the Thompson building, now occupied by the candlery department of England & Petersen, is being ceiled and repaired. The repainting and general improvements recently made on this building has improved it considerably.
Burton News Items – Chuck Hayes of Maury Island was arrested last week and brought before Judge Armbruster and sentenced to thirty days in jail and a fine of twenty-five dollars and costs for stripping a car. Sheriff Shattuck recovered the parts stolen.
Southern Heights News – A sudden cave-in about a mile north of Tahlequah ditched Mrs. Drew’s car Tuesday, but fortunately neither she nor her car were injured.
Dockton News – The fish boat “Irkos” belonging to Luke Plancich started fall fishing for salmon on Monday.

September 24, 1931 - missing

October 1931

October 1, 1931

Burton Library Being Reorganized – Last week a committee of the Vashon Island Woman’s Club worked hard for several days rechecking and recataloging the books in the library at Burton. The books have been rearranged and this library is about as complete a one as can be found in any community of this size. In checking over the cards it was found that a former resident, now living in parts unknown, was not only widely read, but believed in retaining all she read. Proof of this is that she had thirty some odd volumes, none of them returned, charged against her credit. Very few patrons of the library, however, believe in so literally taking their literature as this lady did.
Cedarhurst Road Very Dangerous – While taking friends to the evening ferry Sunday, a Colvos man ran out of gas near the top of the Cedarhurst road, just below the gravel pit. His car unfortunately stopped “right in the middle of the road” like the old song tells us, and at this point the road is so narrow that cars could not pass him in either direction. As a result he was soon the target for remarks, more or less caustic, from a considerable number of drivers, some anxious to get to the ferry, others equally anxious to reach home. Finally another motorist succeeded in shoving the stalled car to one side, where it settled comfortably in the mire. Walking to the highway the driver phoned to the Met-Cro for gas. He explained that he was at the top of the Cedarhurst road and when John Metzenberg came to look for him he came as far as the gravel pit, but failing to see the car light, although it was just around the corner he turned back. When the Cedarhurst road was used principally for a scenic drive its sharp curves did not present the danger they do now. With the West Side road nearing completion, and now in a passable condition the Cedarhurst road is one of the most extensively used highways on the Island. The sharp curves make it impossible to see approaching cars, and it is not at all uncommon for cars to lock wheels, particularly on the turn at the bottom, where the Colvos road joins. Friends of Mrs. Craig, who lives at the bottom of the hill, worry over the dangerous position of her house, where if a car should go off of the road above it would in all probability land on the roof of her house.
Island Boy Hero Of Thousands – The thrill experienced in last Saturday’s football game between the University of Washington and the University of Utah teams in which the Huskies won by a single point was shared by thousands, but in proportion it was not greater to any than to the people of Vashon-Maury Island. It was hard to realize that it was one of our own boys, Bill Smith, that made the sensational play that turned doubt into certainty.
New Seats In Theatre – The work of remodeling the heating plant of the local theatre is still going on, although the improvements already made are giving good results. More radiators will be added, the boiler and pipes covered, and the efficiency in other ways increased. A number of different seats are being put in, and the few old ones left are being arranged for greater comfort of the patrons.
Error In News Story – We regret the fact that an error was made in our story last week of the shipment of Beall chickens to Japan. The statement in regard to the cockerels in the shipment should have read, “record of dam and sire’s dam to be 300 eggs or more.” When cockerels sell for $70 each a difference of 20 eggs is considerable. We are informed that one of our last year’s stories about a shipment of Island birds was copied by poultry journals all over the United States so we particularly regret our failure in accuracy in last week’s story.
Island Eggs Score High At Egg Show – One of the finest exhibits in the Western Washington fair was the eight international show of eggs in the poultry division. In the white shelled egg division the ten highest scored from 98 to 99 2-3. In this division Island producers again came in with excellent scores. Fred Dahl, of Portage, was third on the list with a score of 98 11-12 and Rolf Peterson was fifth with a score of 98 13-24. In the case of Rolf Peterson the fact that the eggs produced by his flock had ranked high came as a surprise. Several weeks ago he had been asked by the Washington Co-op, for permission to enter a dozen of his eggs. He was unaware that this had been done until he received the notification that eggs from his latest shipment had been entered and had ranked among the best. Egg production is the one safe bet for Vashon Island farmers.
High Grids To Play Game At Home Friday – For the first time this season the Vashon Island football fans will have a chance to see their champions in action. Vashon high school grid men will put their brains and bacon against Port Orchard’s eleven Friday, October 2, 1931, at the high school field. It should be a hard fought battle, as the Islanders will have a chance for the Kitsap county title if they can successfully hurdle the opposition from Port Orchard. The Vashon “Black Cats” will put up a better game than they did at Fife last Friday because they have a greater variety of plays at their command.
Burton News Items – Prompt action by Mr. Osmon Avery averted what might have been a serious fire Wednesday when the fireplace chimney at the Hunt home proceeded to light up the heavens for a spell. The house folks were not aware of the blaze until too late for a panic.
Burton News Items – A new electric lighted barber pole just put up, shows where T.W. Butler attends to that kind of business on main street.
No small concern was felt in Ellisport last week over the plight of a travel-stained and worn little mother, who claimed to have come from Spokane to visit her daughter, Mary Kane, whom she could not find. At one home she called apparently too weary to go all the way up the steps, in response to the tapping of her cane, the lady came to the edge of the porch. She did not know Mary Kane, but set to work at the telephone to locate her. After calling the telephone company and several post offices on the Island, she turned to find the dejected mother had left, continuing her quest. The next lady almost forgot to prepare her husband’s evening meal, in her compassion for the mother, and in her efforts to help her; a third lady offered her a cup of tea, and assured her that she would make room for her for the night if she could not find her daughter before sun down. Another lady, concerned for the welfare of the mother herself, notified the sheriff’s office, fearing that she might be wandering about and coming to harm while looking for her daughter. By this time, the masquerader felt that the joke was being carried too far, and she went home, discarded her cane, replaced her teeth, removed her wig and resumed her naturally bright expression, satisfied that her hand had not lost its cunning in arranging make-up, and her character delineations were still convincing, for she had called only on her best friends, and not one had recognized her. She notified her friends that they certainly had treated her kindly, and after the first gasp of surprise, they all relaxed and laughed in relief that the old lady’s plight was just a joke on them.
Dockton News – A.C. Stuckey and John Radin sailed on Monday for San Pedro on the boat “Old Timer,” of Tacoma.
Dr. Grandy To Attend Clinic – Dr. and Mrs. Grandy will leave some time this week for the east. They will go by auto, over the Lincoln highway, to Milwaukee, Wis., where Dr. Grandy will take several weeks of post-graduate work, specializing in surgery and X-Ray work.
High School Notes – Bill Smith of Portage has been doing a great deal to put Vashon’s name on the map. He is the boy who caught Merle Hufford’s pass and raced for Washington’s only touchdown in their game with Utah last Saturday. Smith was put in the line-up at the last minute, as Linfesty, Washington’s regular end, was taken out due to a slump, and played a bang up game at the end. The final score was 7-6 in favor of Washington. Coach Bankhead, Vashon’s football mentor, witnessed the game.

October 8, 1931

Anyway We Have Clams – If grandma starts talking of the “good old days” with their low prices, just look over the paper this week and see if she can beat the prices being offered by our Island merchants. The ad of R.F. Armstrong at Portage, Theo Berry at Dockton, Coy Meredith at Burton and F.A. Weiss at Vashon, members of the Red & White, show that this group is doing its best to help the Island people economize and at the same time give them quality foods. Some of the prices this week made even the editor think of the times when we were paying war-time prices for these same articles. This week the Island bakery announces a cut in the price of bread and the Island product can now be purchased at ten cents a loaf. It is no wonder that bread baking will soon be a lost art at that price, for it doesn’t pay to bake bread at home when it can be provided now by such a simple method as buying it. Despite even our direst forebodings it really looks as though the Island, like the rest of the country might be spared a few months longer before we all starve to death. At any rate we can go down and dig a mess of clams, and they can’t do that in Omaha, Neb.
Sidewalks Near Island Club Building A Menace – With the completion of the pavement ten years ago the lumber remaining was donated by the contractors to the Vashon district for the purpose of building a sidewalk from Vashon to the school. With the help of volunteer labor this was partially accomplished. Like most children the world over the school children preferred the thrill of walking on the pavement to utilizing a perfectly good sidewalk. A number of the planks have been pulled up, leaving spaces that in the daytime present no particular menace to pedestrians, but not so safe should one try to use the sidewalk at night. Last Thursday evening after dark, while returning home Bob Smock decided it would be safer to walk on the sidewalk in front of the Scout Cabin, forgetting about the open spaces. He was charging along in characteristic boy fashion and was shocked to have the bottom of things drop out from beneath him. Aside from being knocked out for an instant, and some pretty severe pains the youngster was apparently alright after a day spent in bed. With a person a few years older, and not quite so elastic the story might have been different. The sidewalk should either be repaired, or torn out completely. If the responsibility is the county’s it should be attended to. If it is up to District 176 the directors should get busy at once. If it is up to volunteer labor, as was the building of it there isn’t a doubt but that the Vashon Business Men’s Club will take care of this as they do everything else that needs fixing in this part of the Island.
Is Shot In Foot – While out hunting last week Gordon Deppman and Chester Bibbins were doing a bit of target practice. Walking along the beach on Maury Island, hunting for some new object upon which to try their skill Gordon accidentally shot off the 22 rifle he was carrying. Well trained in the manner of carrying firearms his rifle was pointed to the ground, but it nevertheless found an unexpected target. The bullet went entirely through Gordon’s foot, chipping a bone enroute.
Island Boy Located In Klallam County – Jeff Hayes, Jr., who had been sought for months by Deputy Sheriff Shattuck has been finally located in Klallam county and is now in the King county jail in Seattle. In the near future he will be tried before Judge Armbruster on the charge of stealing twelve motors, some of which have been located.
Suffers Broken Nose – Coming in violent contact with a baseball bat at the Vashon Grammar school Tuesday of this week Billie Smith, son of Bud Smith, suffered a broken nose. It was one of those seemingly unavoidable accidents for which no one, not even the victim was to blame.
Islander Celebrates Ninetieth Birthday – A two day celebration marked the ninetieth birthday of one of the Island mothers, Mrs. J. Hansen, of Center. Still physically and mentally strong Mrs. Hansen was able to enjoy every detail of the various gatherings of friends and relatives in her honor.
About the happiest girl on Vashon Island these days is Eleanor Beall. On last Saturday her father presented her with a new car, a Dodge 8, convertible sport roadster. Eleanor says she thinks she is the luckiest girl in the world, and apparently her friends who have been enjoying her new car this week agree with her.
Mail Arrives In Style – The mail coming from Cove now arrives in Vashon, Ellisport and Portage in fine style. S.B. Morris recently decided that his old faithful Ford was not sufficiently dignified and purchased a handsome new Chevrolet truck. The new car looks as though it could pull through any kind of roads, and spins along so fast that the patrons of these three post offices are having a hard time keeping up with the mail schedule. In fact all three past masters reported that the morning mail left their offices at identically the same time when the recent change took place.
High School Notes – Mr. Robinson has recently sent in his annual report of school statistics. Some of the most interesting of these are concerning the enrollment. It is as usual, in some respects, the freshman class leading with an enrollment of sixty, and the other classes being almost equal to this number. Our total enrollment is 210. The English classes have the largest class enrollments; freshman English being the largest of these. The next is typing, then United States history and algebra, which is another freshman subject. The total enrollment for the entire Island is 698, and the school census is 881.

October 15, 1931

Pleads Guilty – Judge Armbruster reports that Royce Wise plead guilty this week to the charge of shooting a game bird from an automobile on the highway last week. On account of the good citizenship of the accused he was let off with a minimum fine and cost.
Ferry Tickets Sold By Employees Only – According to word received this week by W.D. Clark ferry tickets can no longer be sold by others than employees of the company issuing them. When books of tickets are purchased they are supposedly to be used by the purchaser.
Hen Lays Unusual Egg – Mrs. Harriet Ward informed the office this week of an unusual instance that will be of interest to poultry raisers. Mrs. Ward has a flock of April pullets from the Beall flock. Several of these pullets started to produce before that were four months old, so Mrs. Ward says. On Monday one of them laid an egg that was too large to put in the egg crate so Tuesday morning Mrs. Ward decided to boil the egg for her breakfast. When she broke it she was amazed to find that in it was four distinct yolks. She has promised the editor of the News-Record the next large egg this pullet lays, so we can see for ourselves what her chickens are doing.
Their Confidence In Advertising Unshaken – Through a general misunderstanding the name of A.J. Marsh was omitted from the Red & White advertisement last week. While it was not the error of the News-Record we appreciate the fact that Mr. Marsh feels badly over the omission, and quite naturally resented it. Mr. Marsh has always been a supporter of home industries and a friend of the local institutions, and it makes us feel mighty good that he is not considering letting down on advertising at this time. The News-Record has always tried to do its bit to keep before the subscribers the wisdom of patronizing home merchants and it is indeed heartening when a group of representative merchants like the Red & White group refuse to economize along the line of advertising, choosing rather to patronize the home paper. City concerns are doing more advertising than ever these days and the Red & White merchants feel that it is good policy to advertise even when times are dull.
Burton News Items – The county school nurse visited our grade school last week, which, after a thorough examination of the boys and girls, resulted in some going to the dentists, and getting other forms of relief elsewhere, but all pronounced a clean, healthy bunch as far as soap and water could do the trick.
Many Edson Pictures Sold – On last Saturday Norman Edson was the center of attraction in the art department of Lowman & Hanford’s store, where he was kept busy autographing all of his pictures sold on that day. A beautiful window display gave impetus to the brisk selling of Mr. Edson’s pictures that took place. Incidentally Vashon Island received a certain amount of publicity through the medium of the advertising done by the Seattle firm in Mr. Edson’s behalf. We understand that Mr. Edson will again broadcast over the radio at a not far distant date, soon to be announced.
The Report of the Financial Condition of the Vashon State Bank on the 29th day of September, 1931, showed total assets of $325,401.71.
High School Notes – Eleven of the books ordered for the library have arrived. The most modern of these are: Cimarron, by Edna Ferber; Forever Free, by Honora Willsie Morrow; and a Boy and His Girl Friends, a book of etiquette.
Abe Abrahamsen is confined to the house suffering from the effects of a fall he received almost two weeks ago. Although no bones were broken it is evident that he has received some serious injury.

October 22, 1931

Growers Should Look Out For Chickenpox – Island poultrymen are much concerned by the appearance of a number of isolated cases of chicken pox on the Island. The county agent’s office offers no definite specific or preventative, but issues the usual warning that flocks be watched for sick chickens that should be once be segregated, and that the bodies of all fowls dying should be destroyed by burning immediately. While the disease has not reached the proportion of an epidemic all that is possible must be done to avoid a repetition of the epidemic which so seriously depleted the Island flocks some eight or nine years ago. A few cases does not spell an epidemic, but it does indicate that extreme vigilance is a necessity.
W.H. Quick Buys Vashon Barber Shop – This week a deal was closed whereby W.H. Quick became the owner of the Vashon Barber Shop, which he conducted after the death of Harry M. Lee, the original owner. Mr. Quick has many former patrons who are glad to know that he is on the Island to stay. Last summer the Vashon Barber Shop was sold to Mr. and Mrs. C.C. Wagner. Finding the hours too long, and the work too confining Mr. and Mrs. Wagner decided to sell the shop and return to Wenatchee, where their relatives live.
Cove Road Has Been Formally Accepted – On last Thursday a group of officials were on the Island and formally accepted the section of the Cove road just completed, a fine addition to the Island road system. The road joining up the old Cove road with the new has also been finished, and the steps to the Cove Methodist church completed before the contractors left the Island. The property of the church has not suffered as much as was at first feared.
Vashon High School Wins In 6-0 Victory – The Vashon high school football eleven broke the jinx that has been hanging over the heads for the last two seasons with a 6-0 win over Bainbridge last Friday. It was an exciting game but Vashon did not have to fight as hard as in previous games. The Island fighters got a lucky break in the first quarter when Don Matsumoto intercepted Bainbridge’s pass and ran the ball to the Bainbridge 15 yard line. Then the ball was put over for a touchdown in two more plays with Phil Green carrying the ball. The Vashon goal was threatened only once or twice and then the danger was not great. Most of the game was fought in the center of the field. The line-up was as follows: Yorioka, re; P. Pettelle, rt; Brammar, rg; Morris, c; Calloway, lg; Mattson, lt; Shallenberger, le; Hendrickson, qb; Green, hb; D. Matsumoto, hb; Schmidt, fb.
Jackson Corbet Seriously Injured – An accident which nearly resulted fatally to one of our Island men, occurred Monday morning near the Fred Sherman residence on the Burton road. One of the Lincoln cars belonging to the Transportation Company, driven by John Staples, Jr., with Jackson Corbet, editor of the Marine Digest (Seattle) and Dan Landers, was coming toward Vashon. Just at the intersection, where the Quartermaster road joins the main traveled highway Mrs. C.E. Wiman, apparently not observing the approaching car drove directly into it. The impact was so great that the Lincoln was knocked off of the road, turning completely over once, and partially turning over a second time when it struck a telephone pole. Mr. Corbet, who was in the front seat with the driver, was thrown out and caught under one of the bows of the top. This pinned him to the ground in such a manner that he undoubtedly would have choked had not help arrived immediately. Mr. Landers and the driver received only minor injuries.
Several weeks ago the News-Record editor received “showers of blessings” for not publishing a certain article sent in, and now we are receiving the same kind of “showers” because we did have published the home coming of a certain party – just as a news item. It was pronounced “silly”, “nobody’s business, etc., etc.” Watta life! Watta life!
High School Notes – The following is a list of students on the honor roll for the first six weeks. Tuckie Smith, Clara Johnson, Leah Kirkland, Geneva Jeffers, Sadie Edwards, Alice Ensing, Coy Meredith, June Beaumont, Margaret Edwards, Harriet Fuller, Mable Wilbur, Rose Berry, Virginia Jeffers, Margaret Petersen, Elizabeth Keyes, Esther Peterson, Margaret Takasuka, Norma Peterson, Isobel Urquhart, Helen Yoshimura, Frank Plumb, Eleanor Beall, Elsie Huston, Lewis Schmidt, Phil Green, Sylvia Beshonen, Charlotte Canfield, Stanley Anderson, Eloise Hoel, Don Matsumoto, Bonnie Dunsford, and Eleanor Larson.
This week the members of the county gravel crew were laid off, probably for the remainder of the year. The crew is composed of Fred Kingsbury, Elmer Stone, Ben Metting, J.J. O’Malley and W.S. Calloway. It is rumored that others will also soon be enjoying an enforced vacation.
Hayes And Petre Given Jail Sentences – On October 17th, in Judge Armbruster’s court, Jeff Hayes, Jr., and Cecil Petre were brought to trial on a charge of grand larceny. In the absence of an attorney the court advised them that it would accept a plea of petty larceny, and each plead guilty as charged. Hayes was sentenced to five month in the King county jail and ordered to keep off of the Island for a period of two years, unless given permission by the court to return. Petre was sentenced to ninety days in the county jail.

October 29, 1931

Center Store Goes On Cash Basis Sat. – Late in June of this year a store was opened in Everett as an experiment. Although conducted somewhat along the lines of the chain stores nationally known, the “Consumer’s Wholesale” was not part of any chain. On Saturday, here on Vashon Island will be opened the second “Consumer’s Wholesale.” Under the management of L.S. Rodda, the Center store will operate on the same plan as the Everett store above mentioned with just as great an opportunity for savings to Island customers. Individually owned, buying not through jobbers, but directly from the manufacturers, Mr. Rodda will be able to offer the people of the Island astonishingly low prices. There will be no “lost leaders” such as one often sees advertised in the city dailies. While the new methods of conducting an Island store on a pay and take it basis may at first seem a bit revolutionary, those who have so successfully conducted the Center store in the past, feel that Vashon-Maury Island is ready for such a purchasing opportunity and will quickly realize the economy of such an arrangement.
Shell Service Station Changes Hands – Another business change took place last week, when Frank Fuller, of Ellisport, purchased the lease of Jack Wendler of the Shell Service Station at Vashon. Mr. Fuller needs no introduction to the people of Vashon for he has lived here since boyhood. For many years he has conducted a greenhouse business at Ellisport. Mr. Fuller will personally conduct his newly acquired business at Vashon. It is significant that at this time a man of his sound judgment should feel sufficient confidence in the Island to take over a new business, and Vashon welcomes Mr. Fuller into its circle of businessmen. Having disposed of his business interests here, Mr. Wendler’s future plans are uncertain.
Katherine Berry Selected As Queen – Again a Dockton girl has come out victor and Katherine Berry will reign as queen of the high school carnival Friday evening of this week. It is a foregone conclusion that whenever a Dockton miss is nominated in a contest that she will emerge victorious. Margaret Petersen was a close runner up and came in second. Eleanor Larsen and Ona Nelson were the other candidates in the popularity contest just closed. The crowning of the Queen will be a feature of the vodvil, one of the events of the program being planned by the student body for the entertainment of the public on Friday evening. Other features will consist of songs, dances, music and specialty acts.
Dockton News – The fishing boat “Sitka”, belonging to Capt. J. Ljubich, has returned from Alaska for the winter.
Statement of the Ownership, Management, Circulation, Etc. of Vashon Island News-Record for October 1, 1931 shows Chas. J. Denny as Business Manager and Agnes L. Smock as Publisher and owner.
Burton News Items – The Pagni family moved back to Tacoma Saturday after repairing their beach house for next summer’s occupancy. Their beach house was promised protection against window breakers and looters, who if caught doing damage to any of the beach houses during the winter will, with their parents, be served a stiff find and sentence.
Abe Abrahamsen is again able to be at work after his recent fall. This week he completed the papering of the C.R. Price home that has just been completely remodeled, and is now one of the most attractive houses on the pavement.
Many Witness Ceremony At Corner Stone Laying Of A.B. Cook Home – A very pretty little ceremony was witnessed by fifty old friends and neighbors Sunday afternoon, at the laying of the corner stone of the new residence of Mr. and Mrs. A.B. Cook at their Quartermaster home. An appropriate program proceeded the sealing of the box containing many mementos dropped in by the company, besides the contributions from the Cook family consisting of a history and pictures of the family, letter from Mr. and Mrs. David Cook, California, the last issue of the Vashon Island News-Record and several other up to date records that will make interesting reading in years to come.

November 1931

November 5, 1931

Huge Sugar Beets Are Grown Here – On Wednesday H.O. Wegener, of Lisabeula, brought to this office two huge sugar beets for us to see. He asked us to weigh them, to verify his statement that one weighed 10 and the other 12 pounds, but we believed our eyes and insisted on taking Mr. Wegener’s word for it. Doubting the statement made by several that sugar beets could not be successfully grown here, Mr. Wegener last spring sent to Germany for a half pound of seed, the best that could be procured. He took no particular care of the plants, not even bothering to cultivate them after they were thinned and transplanted. The result, when the crop was harvested were, 250 beets weighing eight pounds and over, the remainder being about the usual size of sugar beets.
Hallowe’en Was Uneventful – On Monday morning the Island merchants were busy removing soap marks from plate glass windows, about the only damage done by Hallowe’en revelers. In Vashon K.K. Prigg and Ed Soike patrolled the streets until the youngsters who thought they were having a high old time went home to bed. After the last show there was practically no one on the street. Things were equally as quiet in other parts of the Island as at Vashon.
Billiard Tournament Now In Progress – The business men of Vashon are having a lot of fun, and at the same time developing their game of billiards in the tournament now in progress at the Vashon Biliiard Parlors. The ten men now entered in a Round Robin Handicap Tournament are Gus Bacchus, Buster Clark, Jack Collier, Dr. Coutts, H.C. Cronander, Ed Harmeling, Geo. Leslie, Geo. McCormick, John Metzenberg and a Mr. Zimmerman. Ninety games will be played in the tournament and the attractive prizes offered by Geo. Wiley, proprietor, and several other Vashon merchants, have greatly stimulated the interest. Mr. Wiley is running a billiard parlor that is unique. He is determined that his place shall never warrant the stigma that has become attached to such places in the past.
Lisabeula Items – New people are in charge of the store and beach resort. We are told they are planning many improvements.
Burton News Items – We understand our boat will not, for the winter season, make the run to Quartermaster inner harbor dock, but will land at Dockton where it will stay for the night.
Dockton News – The halibut schooner “Alitak” is in from fishing for a few days getting cleaned up.
In this issue an error slipped past three of us in the Rodda ad, and although it was corrected before many of the papers were run we can’t resist telling about it. It was in the item of “smoked ham,” and we don’t know whether our genius of the back office had a pipe dream, a nightmare, or was thinking uncomplimentary things about the editor, but anyway one of the bargains offered was “Smocked Hams”. At first we laughed over the mental picture of a ham dressed in a smock, then pausing for breath we happened to think of those added pounds the last three years have brought and wondered if there was any insinuation.

November 12, 1931

Hard Time Party At Island Club Nov. 27 – The officers and trustees of the Vashon Island Community Club held their regular monthly business meeting last Thursday evening, at which time all current bills were paid. So much enthusiasm had been expressed regarding the old-time dance given last month that is was decided to give another dance this month on the evening after Thanksgiving, November 27th. At first it was planned to give a masquerade dance, but a number of the students expressed the wish that there might be a dance of this nature during the holidays and the committee decided to postpone the masquerade until then. The coming dance will be in the nature of a hard times, or depression dance. It will be entirely informal, and whether one comes in costume or not will be optional. Like the previous dance there will be dances both old and modern, so everyone will be suited.
Systematic Relief Work Is Needed – It has been authentically reported that there are several cases of real suffering in Island homes for lack of the necessities of life. In every case there are little children, who regardless of what their parents may or may not have done should be cared for. Lack of sympathy for the parents does not mitigate the fact that the children are not to blame if they are hungry or code, and it will be a terrific reflection on our community if “one of the least of these” should suffer from privations which the rest of us, out of our plenty, could relieve. At a recent meeting of the Commercial Club a committee was appointed to take care of the cases of need anticipated during the winter. The chairman of the committee is W.D. Garvin. Mr. Garvin, through his office as deputy assessor knows every home on the Island and in general the conditions in these homes. His common sense and good judgment makes him capable of judging. His unfailing tact and kindliness makes it easier for one to accept temporary assistance from him than almost any other local person. These are abnormal times, and it would not be logical that the Island could be so fortunate as to escape cases of destitution. And it will surely be more satisfactory to work systematically and know that our giving will avail something rather than to embarrass and humiliate those we are trying to help through indiscriminate giving. Mr. Garvin willl prove a fine arbiter in the matter of distribution of foods available.
Finger Broken – Jean Slagle suffered the fracture of the little finger on her right hand at school last week, while protecting her face from a ball thrown at her by one of the little boys attending the Vashon grammar school. At first it was believed that the finger was merely sprained, but an examination by Dr. McMurray disclosed the fact that it was badly fractured. He reduced the fracture and the bone is healing nicely.
It Surely Pays To Advertise – Last week the Sweet Shop ran a little ad, telling the people of the Island that their special would be a Sunday chicken dinner at an attractive price. The result was that they were simply deluged with hungry folk, all craving chicken dinners. The experiment was so successful that they decided to have the same special this coming Sunday, and there isn’t a doubt but that the results will be just as successful, and that they will again have a full house, after the splendid dinner they were served last Sunday, combined with a News-Record ad.
We noticed in a Seattle daily that there are plans about to be completed for the purchase of a little jail to be used on the Island to confine prisoners while waiting to be taken to Seattle for trial. Now Deputy Sheriff Shattuck will not be obliged to sit up with his prisoners if he happens to arrest some too late to take the last ferry into the city.
The bakery route, recently operated by L.F. Johnson, has been purchased by Bill Shakespeare, whose many friends welcome him and his wife back to the Island.
From the multiplicity of allusions to “smocked hams” we have been hearing the past week we are convinced that our subscribers surely read the News-Record thoroughly. We see plainly that we must be cautious in the future about what we print.
Among Our Advertisers – The Vashon Theatre is surely showing some good films these days. “Monkey Business” on Saturday is so crazy it’s weird. There is a splendid film promised for Thanksgiving Day. See next week’s ad. The Red & White stores this week are offering Oregon Franquette walnuts for 28 cents a pound. The quality is so marvelous that this is a splendid buy. Few of us ever expected to live to see the day that big cans of pineapple could be had for 12 1-2 cents apiece. With the present price of coal it is now actually cheaper to burn coal than wood. Imagine getting a free burning, sootless coal for $8 per ton, such as the Auto Freight is advertising. Why cook Sunday dinner at home when you can get a real chicken dinner, with all the fixings, for 50 cents at the Sweet Shop? A real “special” this week only. It’s foolish to go slopping around with wet feet when one can get good looking galoshes at Weiss’s for so little. The prices are $1.39 to $2.70. Down at Center at Rodda’s, you not only get good meat, but the price sounds too good to be true. Maybe T-bone steak will never again be 20 cents a pound but a lot of people are going to get some while it is that price. In the grocery department the list of specials sounds as though Thanksgiving were mighty near at hand. At those prices we can all have a fruit cake. Those who go to see “Ma’s and Pa’s Fambly Album” are going to get a lot of good laughs for a little money. You will have a whole evening’s entertainment for 25 cents. And the ticket for the youngsters only cost a dime. Those knives that the Vashon Hardware are advertising for 89 cents are surprisingly fine values. They would made a Christmas present that any man would enjoy receiving.
Again The Report Of A Jail – Once more the daily papers have dug up the Vashon Island jail as a target for their reportorial wit. We wonder why they don’t strike on some newer phase of the subject than “Deputy Sheriff F.J. Shattuck no longer will have to sit up nights telling bedtime stories to prisoners for lack of a place to keep them.” Islanders who know “Fin” know that it would take a lot to keep him up telling bedtime stories even to his new grandson. Not that he isn’t on the job sufficiently, but he just isn’t the “bedtime story” type. To return to the subject of our Island jail. County Commissioner Brinton is reported to have made the statement that he is negotiating with a Cleveland, Ohio, company to buy from them a sample “jail of foolproof steel now in Seattle, for use on the Island. The miniature jail was brought here and assembled by a representative of the company during negotiations for construction of the $190,000 King county jail atop the County-City building contract for which went to his company. Its demonstrative purposes served, the little jail, knocked down, has lain in a South End warehouse for about a year. $2,200 is the original price asked for the steel cage, about 15 feet square, but the owners are now willing to accept less, it is said, and the deal may be made. The jail is equipped with modern breakproof locks and can hold several men. The Island people have been hearing so many reports of this mythical jail during the past two and a half years that it no longer takes any of them seriously, but if by chance it should materialize it would almost be proof that there was a Santa Claus. In accordance with the original plan a lot was to be purchased and a jail, adequate to serve any necessary purpose was to be built at a very low figure, by Deputy Shattuck, with the help of a trustee from the county jail. In giving the information on the subject to the city papers our commissioner neglected to say where the jail was to be placed after it was purchased. Presumably it will be hung up somewhere like any cage. The Shattuck fruit trees are quite old and strong. It is a foregone conclusion that it can’t be parked in the Shattuck garage, for they use their garage at night for their car. It makes a fascinating subject for conjecture anyway, but it will be futile to waste too much grey matter in thought on the subject, for when that jail materializes it will be such a shock to everyone that no one will be able to think. And anyway, why a jail? We’ve managed to struggle along without one this long so why bother now? It seems a pity to rob those Seattle dailies of their perennial topic, “Vashon Island and Its Jail.”

November 19, 1931

Would Create Shrine At Burton – A suggestion for the disposal of the box taken from the cornerstone of the old Burton College which was opened at the reunion last September has been made by Alex Smith. It is the most logical suggestion that has been made to date, and would constitute a unique and happy project for the former students to perform for their Alma Mater. Mr. Smith states that in his opinion the box should be re-interred, and while the place of its disposal may not mark the corner of the old school, it would create a shrine for recurring reunions and later, when the alumni has expired, for their children who may be taught to cherish the traditions of the College which once from the hilltop overlooked the inner and outer waters of Quartermaster Harbor. The project Mr. Smith has in mind is that during the interval before the next reunion additional data, such as photographs of the college as it was, its history, rolls of scholars, etc., be added to the original items it contained, and the box resealed. Then at a time when sufficient means for the work had been contributed by the alumni, the box shall be placed in concrete and an appropriately worded tablet conveying the significance of the memorial be unveiled on a cairn of native stone, constructed in an attractive design upon a site selected for a landmark location somewhere near the former site of the college. This would create a unique object and without doubt attract the attention of generations of Burton visitors.
New Inn On Island – This week’s advertisements show that a new place of business has been added to the Island’s list. Their many friends are indeed glad to welcome back Bill and Betty Shakespeare who are just as glad to get back to the Island. Mr. and Mrs. Shakespeare have leased the Doebbler house at Vashon Heights, on the Biloxi road and Mrs. Shakespeare, with the help of her mother, Mrs. Adams, will operate “Shakespeare’s Inn,” which opens to the public next Sunday. With the entire lack of an eating place at the North End there is a might good chance for such a business in that part of the Island proving a profitable one, and that is just what their many friends are hoping for the Shakespeares in their new venture.
Island Minister Has Narrow Escape – Rev. C. Aug. Peterson arrived home this week from Great Falls, Mont., where he has been conducting a series of meetings and lectures. On Sunday afternoon he preached in the chapel of the Deaconess Hospital at Great Falls. Rev. Peterson left for home last Saturday morning, expecting to arrive here in time to conduct the Sunday services in his own church on the West Side. Near Troy, Mont., the train on which he was traveling missed by only a few minutes being struck by a great rockslide, which stopped all operation over that division for nine hours, and took 100 men many hours to clear away. Had the train come along just a few minutes sooner there would not have been a chance to escape. As it was, all the passengers suffered was just a severe shaking up. Rev. Peterson, and all of the rest felt that they were indeed fortunate.
Metzenberg Still High Man – The Round Robin billiard tournament now being played is creating as much interest as ever. John Metzenberg still remains high man, and his two remaining games will tell the tale. The way the tournament stands to date is: Metzenberg won 6, lost 1; Cronander won 1, lost 6; McCormick won 3, lost 3; Bacchus won 3, lost 2; Coutts won 3, lost 3; Collier won 3, lost 4; Leslie won 1, lost 5; Zimmerman won 4, lost 3; Harmeling won 4, lost 2.
The Vashon Shell service station now the property of Frank Fuller, has a large new sign that is a great improvement.
Some Successful, Some Not – The Island hunters have met with varying success on their hunting trips recently. The two parties, who tried their luck at Blewett Pass said that all they could find were small deer so they left them until they grew up. The ones that told little bed-time stories of that nature were John Metzenberg, Otto Therkelsen, and Dick Fuller, in one party, and George McCormick and Frank Fuller in the other. The party that spent two weeks in Ferry county composed of Con and Don Tjomsland, the two Roen brothers, Carl Siegrist and Martin Hansen returned with a fourteen day growth of beard and three fine young deer. (Evidently they found them big enough to kill.)

November 26, 1931

Welfare Committee Appointed By C. of C. – At the executive committee meeting of the Commercial Club the following committee was appointed to assist the chairman in the relief work – Mrs. Grace Beall as treasurer, Mrs. George Thompson the Ellisport Club, Mrs. Graham Maloney for Lisabeula, Mrs. George Walls the Cove P.T.A., Miss Berry for Dockton, Mrs. Robinson for Vashon, Mrs. George Schmidt for Vashon Heights. The Ladies Auxilliary of the Presbyterian Church have consented to take care of the receipts and distribution of clothing. Mrs. Clifford Menees is President of the auxiliary. Send all money to the treasurer, Mrs. Grace Beall. One of the biggest needs we have is employment for the unemployed. If you have any work that you might have done, notify any one of the above committee. The state is taking one days pay from the employees for relief work and sending it where the employees wish. Capt. Harry Synder of the state highway patrol has asked for his to be sent to the Vashon Relief Work.
The Dockton Community Hall was reshingled by the men of the community last Monday and Tuesday. The men’s services were donated. Mrs. Laurits Danielsen and Mrs. Matt Radin, with the aid of other women, served the men with coffee and cake in the afternoon.
Burton News Items – Wonder if the editor of the Vashon Island News-Record intends to give us a “bonus” of a slice of turkey for getting locals in one day ahead so they can have Thanksgiving peace as well as the rest of mankind? We like the dark meat Lady Smock!
England & Petersen Gets Large Contract – In competition with saw mills and lumber dealers from Tacoma, Seattle, Bremerton and other points, England & Petersen obtained the order for lumber and other materials to be used in construction of Kitsap County’s new court house. Fourteen bids were submitted, and our Island firm feels pretty good at getting the business.

December 1931

December 3, 1931

Goodwill Farm Well Managed – On last Saturday the editor had the opportunity of taking lunch at the Goodwill Farm. We use the word “opportunity” advisedly, for the place is a revelation, conducted as it now is. Lack of space does not permit giving to the Island readers even a partial idea of the difference in management of the Goodwill Industries. Unfortunately we have had reason locally for prejudice, which will disappear if the Island people become acquainted with the present facts in the case.
Two Arrests And Convictions Made – As the result of some clever detective work on the part of Deputy Sheriff Shattuck, a still, operated by John Steinbach, was discovered on his ranch north of Vashon. Steinbach was arrested by Shattuck and taken to Seattle. On Wednesday, November 25th the case was heard before justice of the peace, R.W.F. Martin, who fined him $250 and costs and gave him a suspended sentence of 90 days. Being unable to pay his fine Steinbach was taken to the county jail to serve out his sentence. Deputies Barnes and Pollach, of Seattle, assisted Shattuck in destroying the still which Steinbach had been operating. Another recent arrest made by Deputy Sheriff Shattuck was that of Charley Montgomery, for stealing auto parts. He was tried by Judge Martin who fined him $5 and costs. He was also given a suspended sentence of 60 days for contempt of court.
Enjoy Hard Time Dance – Last Friday evening an almost capacity crowd turned out for the Hard Times Dance at the Island Club. The costumes were decidedly informal, and some of them were startlingly funny. An excess of wax on the floor caused several spills during the early part of the evening that produced a lot of merriment. “Tim” Clark, as master of ceremonies kept everything moving and a “good time was had by all.”
Local Island Girl Opens New Store – It is always gratifying when one of our young people sets up a home or business on the Island, and much interest is felt in the newest Island business which will open next Saturday morning. Irene Garvin is opening a variety store in the Garvin building at Vashon, and will have a complete line of the articles usually found in such stores, ranging from a paper of needles, to silk underwear; from a kettle cleaner to a set of dishes; and all the intermediate steps. It is not hard to imagine the fun the school youngsters will have this year buying their Christmas gifts at “Irene’s Variety Store,” for they will have a fine range to choose from. Irene, who graduated with the class of 1929, has been attending business school in Seattle, and learning a lot of things not in the curriculum. The store, which will be conducted on the cash basis, will no doubt be a success, for it fills a real need, and we not only hope, but prophesy as well, that “Irene’s Variety Store” will be a popular place to shop.
Accident On Crossroads – This week an accident occurred, in which a Ford truck was overturned at the crossroad just below the Alex Stewart residence. While drivers should know enough to stop before driving onto the pavement it would not be amiss to have a few “stop” signs scattered over the Island for the attention of those who do not value their own or their neighbors’ lives. We have been informed that two cars have been forced off of the road at the Quartermaster junction, in addition to the accident in which the bus was overturned. This Island has been kept remarkably free from fatal traffic accidents. Let’s make the record permanent. On Thanksgiving evening a traffic accident occurred in which the new Ford car belonging to the Lewis family of Burton was stripped on the left side, when it collided with the Schofield car.
Dockton Community Hall Enlarged – The Dockton people are very proud of the new floor recently laid in their Community Hall. There is probably no place on the Island where the whole community gets together for good times as they do in Dockton, or where a community hall is used as often, so it is gratifying when a new improvement is added. The space of the main floor has also been enlarged.
The interest in indoor golf is indicating a revival with the arrival of wintery weather. The billiard parlor is also doing a land office business, showing that Vashon Island men and women like the amusements these places furnish.
Hen Lays Unusual Egg – Mrs. Harriet Ward informed the office this week of an unusual instance that will be of interest to poultry raisers. It is rather a coincidence that on the same day the Seattle Times told of a similar happening on the mainland. Mrs. Ward has a flock of April pullets from the Beall flock. Several of these pullets started to produce before they were four months old, so Mrs. Ward says. On Monday one of them laid an egg that was too large to put in the egg crate so Tuesday morning Mrs. Ward decided to boil the egg for her breakfast. When she broke it she was amazed to find that in it were four distinct yolks. She has promised the editor of the News-Record the next large egg this pullet lays, so we can see for ourselves what her chickens are doing. She feels that this is just one more argument in favor of Beall stock.

December 10, 1931

Island In Darkness Tuesday Evening – What a scramble there was for the old fashioned oil lamps last Tuesday evening when the power went off! It was all caused by a loose connection on the main line over on Maury, between Hayes’ corner and the cable crossing. But two hours of stumbling around in the dark or near dark, gave everyone an opportunity to realize how insincere is all our sighing for “the good old days!” Five-thirty found the lights dim and indistinct, and six o’clock discovered housewives peering into kettles with a smoky oil lamp held high; storekeepers trying to measure out sugar and count out the Christmas cranberries by the light of a wavering candle; farmers stumbling around barns with flickering lanterns, trying to find either a cow or an honest man. Most of them said they would have been satisfied if they could have found the head of the Puget Sound Power & Light Co. But accidents will happen, and nobody suffered greatly that we have been able to determine to date unless it be the poor operators in the telephone office! Most of them are barely able to talk above a whisper today from answering questions. Of course Tim Clark contends his eyes will never be the same again. He says he strained them trying to read Whiz Bang by candle light. He would probably have been blind had he been trying to read College Humor. Our shoe rebuilder complains that he had to sit in his shop “all alone in the dark” because he couldn’t see to find the door. As for Bill Quick – he gives “no account to nobody!” Mr. Weiss had the laugh on everybody, he had a high powered gas lamp and his store was the one bright spot in town. And what did Cephas Ramquist do? “Chucked my money in the safe and beat it for home!” By eight o’clock, however, all was serene again, and with a sigh of comfort and satisfaction old papa Vashon settled back in his easy chair, and with plenty of light to read by proceeded to enjoy life in the good old modern way.
Burton Harmonica Contest A Success – The meeting of the Burton Improvement Club last Thursday was one of record, both in attendance and enthusiasm. The main feature of the program was the much advertised and anxiously expected contest between the harmonica players of Vashon Island. After a short business session the diners adjourned to the auditorium of the church to find seats pretty thoroughly preempted by those interested primarily in the contest. All players were placed behind a screen, given a number and voting was according to number displayed. In this way all appeal because of locality or popularity of the contestant was avoided. In the junior class, prizes were awarded as follows: First, Bob Neilsen; second, Amos Trombach; third, Gus Molvick; fourth, Glen Willies; fifth, Alfred Therkelsen. In the senior class: First, W.E. Willers; second, A.B. Cook; third, V.J. Beandreau; fourth, A. Thurston.
Final Report Made In Pierson Estate – The final report of administration and petition for distribution has been made in the Philip Pierson estate and shows that $1500 was received from the sale of the property; Out of this was paid an $800 mortgage and other property charges amounting to $446.43. Filed against the property, in addition to the above were claims for groceries garage, medical, three funerals and other expenses amounting to $2,297.80.
Margaret McAvoy Former Vashon College Student – Former college students may remember Miss McAvoy as a student of Vashon College “way back when.” As a small girl ten or twelve years old, she was considered the musical prodigy of the vicinity, and no entertainment at the college was complete without a number by “little Maggie McAvoy.” She still retains the Irish dash and sparkle in her playing which made her so charming then, not only as a pianist but as an individual. The writer knew her personally and still chuckles over some of the mischievous stunts they used to “pull off.” It is interesting to all to realize that one of the artists of the Pacific Coast received her early musical education on our Island, at Vashon College.
Basketball Season Getting Under Way – Coach Ted Bankhead was rewarded with a turnout of about 23 men last Monday night in the first turnout of the year. Several good prospects have been discovered in Chester Olson, Don Matsumoto, Ken Yorioka and Alex Kelly. Three lettermen have returned Earl Hendriksen, Frank Matsumoto and Spuds Pettelle. Coach Bankhead expects good results from the squad which will be cut down later.
New Island Industry Located At Dockton – The Dockton Clam Cannery, owned and operated by A.S. Hidell of Dockton, is an industry of which few people off the Island have heard. Mr. Hidell is featuring the Island clams as much as possible, preparing and canning them with such care that they are attracting attention all over the northwest. Many of the clams are purchased from local clam diggers on the Island, but so great is the demand that he is finding it necessary to send out his own boats, not only around our Island shores but up and down the Sound as well.
Island Christmas Trees Go To California – Buster Clark and Gordon Deppman left for California early Wednesday morning with a truck load of Island Christmas trees. They will sell the trees along the way, and expect to spend the winter in California.
Seton Edson slipped in on his folks for a short visit during the Thanksgiving holidays and left again for Astoria, Ore., where he is stationed in the government service on the Coast Guard Cutter, “Redwing”, which plies along the Oregon and California coast. Seton likes his work and is making good in many ways beneficial to young men in the government service.
Among Our Advertisers – One needn’t go to the cities this Christmas for those small friendly remembrances one wishes to give. Irene’s Variety Store is a delight to the eye as well as the pocketbook. Aside from the incidental gifts one may obtain here all the necessary trimmings for the kiddies’ Christmas tree. A remarkably large stock makes shopping here a pleasure. And for reliable prescriptions made necessary from an over indulgence of good things during the holiday season there is no better place than the Burton Pharmacy at Burton. But why wait for sickness to order flowers? Beall’s Greenhouse has beautiful chrysanthemums which will make an acceptable remembrance for mother, sister, sweetheart, or friend. Of course if you’re one of those practical persons that enjoy giving a useful gift, in other words if you’re a bit Scotch, why not order a couple tons of coal for yourself from the Vashon Auto Freight Co., and receive a shiny new coal bucket to give to a friend? Or, if you’d rather not buy the coal, but think you can keep warm in a nice overcoat, take advantage of Mr. Ramquist’s overcoat offer and receive an electric clock free. Only if you’re buying us a gift we’d rather have one of those Peter Pan Midget radios prices at $29.90 at F.A. Weiss. And the Vashon Hardware Co. has all broken out in toys! Piano playing mice, mechanical dolls, dogs, and trains, besides a lot of other fascinating toys are fairly rioting around in their window. And don’t forget the needy families. Order a load of wood or coal from Therkelsen’s and have it delivered to the door for a surprise Christmas package from a friend.
Elect Officers – The Vashon Island Commandry No. 26, held election of officers at the Masonic Hall at Burton, Wesnesday evening. Those elected were as follows: C.G. Kimmel, Eminent Commander; Matt Morrisey, Generalissimo; F.A. Weiss, Captain General; Charles England, Treasurer; R.W.F. Martin, Secretary; Martin Tjomsland, Senior Warden; C.J. Ramquist, Junior Warden. The public installation of these officers and the appointive officers will be held on December 28.
No Depression Here – The Bacchus Lumber Co., is certainly not suffering from Old Man Depression’s frown, if appearances are any indication. A new ton and a half truck has rumbled on the scene recently and will be busy soon hauling lumber forth and hence.

December 17, 1931

Pullets Lays Huge Egg – Last week a pullet belonging to the Brink family at Lisabeula laid “some egg.” It weighed 6 ounces and measured 9 1-4 inches in circumference the long way and 7 inches the short way around.
Our Mistake And We’re Sorry – In last week’s News-Record an error was made which we regret greatly and for which we offer public apology. In a news story it was stated that the power was off until 8 o’clock, whereas it was turned on at 7:15. While this is seemingly an unimportant error, since the Island consumers knew we were at fault we still wish to make this correction.
Entertains Fellow Officers – On Saturday evening the officers of the local chapter of the Eastern Star were delightfully entertained by the outgoing worthy patron, Arthur Poultney. The first part of the evening was spent at the theatre, where all enjoyed the splendid film, “Dirigible.” Seats in the balcony had been reserved for the party. After the show the party went to the home of Mr. and Mrs. Poultney, where they enjoyed the delicious refreshments awaiting them. Decorations and color scheme were carried out in the holiday manner, and the central attraction was the beautiful Christmas tree, bearing a gift for each one present. Mrs. Poultney’s ability to versify is so well known that it is not hard to imagine the mirth provoked by the poem which accompanied each gift. The party broke up at a late hour after enjoying a most delightful evening of fun and good fellowship, all unanimous in the opinion that they had enjoyed a most fitting beginning of the holiday season.
Officers Searching Cars At Fauntleroy – Cars leaving the ferry have been subjected to search on the Fauntleroy dock by federal prohibition and emigration officers since Sunday morning. What they are searching for remains a mystery, with even the sheriff’s office kept in ignorance. It is evident that the officers are working on some definite clue for some of the cars are subjected to a thorough search, while others receive no attention whatever. At first it was supposed this was part of the campaign to make Seattle dry for Christmas, but this is evidently not the entire reason. One car leaving the Island had several bottles of beer. The owner made no especial effort to hide the bottles and several of them were in plain sight. Either the officer searching the car was near sighted or doubted the potency of Island manufactured beer, for no attention was paid to it.
Vashon Island Men In Need Of Work – W.D. Garvin, chairman of the welfare committee for the Island, reports that while there are several cases of straightened circumstances on the Island there are no cases where charity is being requested. There are a number of cases of real “want,” but the biggest element is that in each instance the “want” is for a job, and a means of earning a few odd dollars. Mr. Garvin has a list of several good, hard-working men who will be glad to work at two dollars a day. Partial relief has been provided by a few days work for a number who have made a great improvement through work done at the cemetery, which was badly in need of clearing of grass and ferns. These men do no ask to be given anything but a chance to earn the money their families require. Relief is being given and necessities provided in several instances. One large family of children is being provided with several quarts of milk each day. Mr. Garvin states also that he has a list of several women who are anxious for occasional jobs of housework. He requests that those needing either men or women to help them will call him at Black 151, and he will guarantee to provide capable and willing workers.
High School Operetta Beautifully Rendered – The high school operetta “Tulip Time in Holland” delighted the large audience which turned out last Friday night. It has been some time since the Island people have had a chance to hear an operetta locally; consequently the enthusiasm and praise was profuse. The players showed the finish and training of professionals, and it is to be hoped that they will have an opportunity next year to try their skill. The teachers are to be congratulated on the results obtained.
Billiard Tournament Ends – The billiard tournament which has been in progress for the past several weeks has finally completed, and prizes awarded. John Metzenberg finished at the top of the list and received the first prize, a handsome smoking set; George McCormick, second, received a beautiful auto robe; V.C. Coutts, third, flash light; Ed Harmeling, fourth, box of hose; Buster Clark, fifth; Geo. Leslie and H.C. Cronander tied for the booby prize, and in playing it off George won a real jack-knife. Mr. Willey, proprietor of the billiard parlor, has been obliged to enlarge the room and add two new tables. Patrons state that the Vashon billiard room is conducted in the best manner of any they have ever frequented, and is a real asset to the village.
Contributions Asked For Christmas – W.D. Garvin has requested the News-Record to appeal to the Island people in bringing cheer to those less fortunate than they. Several families with children will have to depend on the kindness of their neighbors for Christmas cheer. He is asking that those who have contributions to make leave them at Irene’s Variety Store the first of next week. He will see that they are sent where they will do the most good. There are a number of children whom Santa Claus will not visit this year except through the kindness of others. It is a foregone conclusion that the people of the Island are not going to let the faith of little children be shattered by failure on their part. Through no particular fault of their own the parents will be unable to provide the gifts that mean so much to the little folks. We, who are parents of children, cannot permit these little ones to be robbed for even one Christmas of the happy illusions of childhood. Mr. Garvin states that any gifts, no matter whether it is food or clothing, bedding or fuel, can be used, and that he will see that it is placed where it will do good. There are no cases of suffering on the Island, and there will be none if the Island people continue to concern themselves for the need of those less fortunate as they are now doing. The response to the cry of need will doubtless be as quick in this occasion as it has always been heretofore.
Melvin Ely and Don Odion left Monday for California with a truck load of Christmas trees.
The Dockton bell was moved from the Community Hall and erected on the schoolhouse this week.
Burton News Items – The secretaries of the different clubs meeting in our part of the Island are very prompt reporting the doings of their organizations, in the News-Record. This saves the Burton reporter considerable phoning and making mistakes – and saves time and work. We would say to these good people, “carry on.”

December 24, 1931

High School Wins County Championship – Welcome not only for the high school but for the entire community was the news contained in a phone call received by F.M. Robertson from W.C. Tucker, superintendent of Richmond Beach schools. Mr. Tucker informed Mr. Robertson that our high school debate team had won the King County Debate championship. The subject debated this year has been “Resolved that the chain stores are detrimental to best interests of the American public.” In all of the county debates only three decisions have been won on the affirmative side, showing that the weight of proof produced would prove that chain stores were not detrimental, but an advantage to the buying public. The Island can well be proud of the winning of the championship by this quartette of students. Lewis Schmidt, junior, has had three years of debating experience, and a splendid amount of training in public speaking. The other three, however, are debating this year for the first time, and have upheld the honors of the school splendidly. Geneva Jeffers, Dick Slagle and Tuckie Smith, the other members of the team are all sophomores, and despite their lack of previous experience have done fine work.
Orrin Madison Wins Race – Orrin Madison recently won a gold medal at the University of Washington, where he is a student in the Law school. The medal was the reward for having won a two mile race, which he ran in 10 minutes and 30 seconds, and a cross country run which he made in 12 minutes and 53 seconds, the lowest record that has been made up to the present time. Orrin is a graduate of the Vashon high school.
Road Committee Meets At Luncheon – At an informal luncheon at Watseka Lodge recently the highway committee of the Commercial Club met with county officials to discuss the road program for the Island for the coming year. A line-up of the conditions governing the local road activities for the coming year was gone over. Since the 1931 budget had already been made before the existing committee was appointed the subject was reviewed to the members of the committee by Mr. Brinton and Mr. Wilsey. The subject of the bad and blind corners was gone over and a working plan arrived at. Arterial highways and signs were discussed, and a working basis agreed upon. In the near future arterial highways will be designated and signs placed. A great deal of time was given to the discussion of the Burton-Tahlequah project. This was gone over in detail and satisfactory arrangements were arrived at whereby the Island could still secure the $10,000 appropriation in the 1931 budget. This work, done by Island labor, has already been started under the supervision of Supervisor Rhulen. Mr. Case was appointed a committee of one to look after the Island road interests at Olympia.
Home Destroyed By Fire At Center – Tuesday afternoon a disastrous fire occurred at Center, which left Mr. and Mrs. C.M. Clare and their three children in a sad condition. The Clares were living in what is known as the Allison place on the cemetery road. The origin of the fire which broke out upstairs has not been determined. Mr. Clare and the youngest child were asleep at the time, and awakened rushed upstairs only to find the fire burning rapidly. Help was summoned, when Mr. Smith at the telephone office observed the flames breaking through the roof. The Vashon fire truck responded to the call but the fire had gained such headway that it was useless when it reached the scene. Practically all of the furniture on the first floor was saved, but all of the beds, bedding, and most of the clothing of the family was lost.
Dockton Hall Almost Completed – On last Saturday night the new floor at Dockton was used for the first time. Although the exterior of the building has not been painted the interior is shining with new floor, woodwork and paint, and the new roof will keep out the rain for many years to come.
Work Starts On South End Road – Work has at last been definitely started on the new Burton-Tahlequah South End road, with ten men, under the supervision of C.M. Rhulen began the work of grubbing and clearing the new section commencing at Shawnee. The matter of beginning this work has been dragging, until there seemed to be a grave possibility of the Island’s losing the $10,000 funds appropriated by the commissioners, since money not used for the purpose for which it was originally appropriated during the year reverts back into the general funds January 1st. If, however, the work has been commenced on the project for which it was appropriated, even though it continues over into the next year it still remains in the fund to carry on the designated work. The commissioners, as well as the state office have specified that in order to secure employment on this piece of road work an applicant must be an Island man, married and with a family.
Announcement – I will take over the agency for the Post-Intelligencer, January1st, and will appreciate the patronage of subscribers, old and new. – Wm. Hiersch, Portage.

December 31, 1931

Large Crew At Work On Road – One of the best gifts received on the Island during the holiday season is the work commenced last week on the Burton-Tahlequah road. Two crews of men, about thirty in all, are working under the direction of Supervisor Rhulen from either end of the new highway. They are engaged in slashing, grubbing out roots, moving logs, and clearing the right of way preparatory to the actual construction. Practically every one employed is an Island man with a family. The contract for the road will be let the last of January, but the work now under way will last until that time, and many of the men now at work will be employed on the construction of the road.
Needy Families Receive Baskets – W.D. Garvin, chairman of the Island welfare committee, reports that sixteen Christmas baskets were distributed on Thursday. We understand that a number of Island organizations also saw to it that those who are feeling the pinch of hard times had occasion to realize that there were good friends and neighbors. As far as can be learned no one on the Island went without a Christmas dinner. Christmas here, as elsewhere, seemed to be marked with a deeper significance than in more prosperous years, and many reported that they had had a far better and happier day than they had anticipated. Apparently what was lacking in material gifts was otherwise compensated for.
Cove Woman Wins Radio – Mrs.Renouf, of Cove, recently won a fine new radio in a slogan contest staged by one of the large radio and television corporations. The announcement of the winner was made Thursday morning, and the radio was delivered to her the same afternoon. The slogan she submitted was, “to see it, to hear it, is to buy it.”
Landmark Torn Down By Wind – The recent heavy rain and wind on the ivy vines that had grown into a tree with branches covering every part of the woodshed by Morrissey’s meat market made such a weight on the shed that It toppled over one day last week taking the ivy with it. But the old land mark has not yet lost its place in the sun as the ivy roots are still deep in the ground and the owner M.H. Morrissey will use every effort to raise the ivy, weighing several tons, and get it back in place. From Miss Ida McClintock we find the history of this ivy dates back in the 80’s when her father James M. McClintock brought a piece from that growing on Ezra Meeker’s log house at Puyallup and planted it on his homestead at Ellisport. From this growth they brought a root, in 1892, and planted it by the shed where it thrived for nearly forty years and had grown into a thing of beauty and immense size. Miss McClintock tells of other ivy that her brother, Saxe, brought, in later years from Washington D.C. from a plant by the tomb of Washington at Mr. Vernon; this ivy was planted and completely covers the place.
Bulkhead Washed Out – High waves and tides during the high wind on Friday and Saturday of last week wrought a lot of damage in the vicinity of Magnolia Beach, washing away a portion of the bulkhead and for a while threatening the Mudget cottage. Prompt work with the pile driver and county crew, however, repaired the damage to the bulkhead before the cottage was damaged.
Burton News Items – New books recently added to the Burton library are: “Shadows on the Rock,” by Wille Cather; “The Good Earth,” by Pearl Buck; “Exit,” by Wright. And in addition four were gifts by Miss Streets, and one by Alex Smith.
Wants To Know How It Was Done – H.C. Cronander states that he would like to meet the person who broke the chain across the driveway of the Vashon grammer school and find out just how it was done. The chain was placed there when school closed to keep the motoring public from wandering about the grounds, but evidently the pastures on the other side of the chain looked greener, for someone cut it in two and wandered in. Possibly someone with a thirst for knowledge. Anyway Cro is curious to know how and why it was done. He states that if he had wanted to get to the other side he would have crawled under rather than go to so much work and bother.

Vashon History

Timeline

Newspaper Summary 1931

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1931 Vashon Island News-Record Summary (Mike Sudduth)

January 1931

January 2, 1931

January 8, 1931 (missing)

January 15, 1931

January 22, 1931

January 29, 1931

February 1931

February 5, 1931

February 12, 1931

February 19, 1931

February 26, 1931

March 1931 March 5, 1931

March 12, 1931

March 19, 1931

March 26, 1931

April 1931

April 2, 1931

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April 30, 1931

May 1931

May 7, 1931

May 14, 1931

May 21, 1931

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June 1931

June 4, 1931

June 11, 1931

June 18, 1931

June 25, 1931

July 1931

July 2, 1931

July 9, 1931

July 16, 1931

July 23, 1931

July 30, 1931

August 1931

August 6, 1931

August 13, 1931

August 20, 1931

August 27, 1931

September1931

September 3, 1931

September 10, 1931

September 17, 1931

October 1931

October 1, 1931

October 8, 1931

October 15, 1931

October 22, 1931

October 29, 1931

November 1931

November 5, 1931

November 12, 1931

November 19, 1931

November 26, 1931

December 1931

December 3, 1931

December 10, 1931

December 17, 1931

December 24, 1931

December 31, 1931

Vashon History

Vashon History

March 1931
March 5, 1931