Newspaper Summary 1928

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1933 Vashon Island News-Record Summary (Mike Sudduth)

January 1933
January 5, 1933

The Landers Home Totally Destroyed – A spectacular fire late Sunday afternoon destroyed the Landers home on the Cross’ Landing road, and very nearly claimed the life of the owner, Mrs. Elizabeth Landers, a helpless invalid. The origin of the fire will never be known, for there was no witness as to what portion of the roof first burst into flames. Dan Landers, who was returning from the ferry, to which he had taken his mother’s housekeeper, first saw the blaze through the trees as he drove into his own yard, a short distance through the woods from his mother’s home. Calling for help he ran to the rescue of his mother who had been left asleep and alone in the house. The entire roof was ablaze as he rushed into the house to carry his mother out. Had he been a few minutes late her rescue would have been impossible. Neighbors, summoned by phone, succeeded in saving the piano and rug, but aside from this, and a few small pieces of furniture the house contents and outbuildings were all totally destroyed. The ten-room frame house made excellent material for the fierce blaze fanned by a strong wind. Contrary to the rumor that the Landers house was some 45 or 50 years old the home destroyed on Sunday was built thirty years ago on the site of the old homestead home. True the Landers family came to the Island when homesteads were still available, but this was the second house on their property, not the original one. The loss of the home and its contents amounts to more than $3,000 partially covered by insurance.
All Right, Laugh! – The error in one of the headlines of last week’s issue, proclaiming that “Burton Resident Totally Destroyed” has evoked a number of hearty laughs for which everyone who has laughed is that much better off. Not only that, but it has boosted the sale of extra copies of the issue, one facetious Burton gentleman having purchased six copies and clamoring for more, which we will sell to him only on his promise to see to it that we get into “slips that pass in the night.” Our only alibi is that the fault lies at the door of whoever concocted this foolish plan of having Christmas and New Year’s come on a day that makes business concerns take an extra holiday. And that old boy has been in the next world so long we don’t imagine he’s much concerned about the confusion his old calendar makes. Anyway we are glad that intentionally or otherwise we were able to make somebody laugh before the first of the month took all of the joy out of life.
Appointed Member Of Legislature Committee – A signal honor was paid to an Island man recently in the appointment of Mr. Chas. England as a member of the legislative committee of the State Chamber of Commerce. Mr. England states that at their first meeting it was the unanimous decision not to interfere in any manner with the new legislature but to keep closely in touch with affairs, particularly taxation measures, and to stand by and help in anyway possible.
Author Of Pioneer Sketches – A series of interesting articles, or rather, pioneer stories, running in the Potter (Nebraska) Review are from the pen of our own O.S. VanOlinda. Although he insists he cannot qualify as a real Island pioneer we wish that someone could prevail upon Mr. VanOlinda to write some tales of early days on the Island.
Boy Saved From Watery Grave – To a kind Providence and the prompt and brave action of a boy and two men, Ed Slagle, 14, owes his life. Last Saturday afternoon Ed Slagle and Willie Bacon decided to try out a canvas boat they had just completed. Launching the frail craft in the West Pass, south of Cove, the boys satisfied themselves that it was seaworthy. Of a venturesome type Ed was the first to try out the boat, which seemed safe enough. Inadvertently he got farther from shore than he intended and as he shifted his weight in some manner the boat went over, pitching him into the icy waters of the Sound. Although the boy is a good swimmer he was so handicapped by heavy boots and clothing that it was evident he could not make the shore and succeeded in getting a firm hold of the boat, which was drifting rapidly out into the channel with the swift, outgoing tide. Realizing that he could not in any way help his friend the Bacon boy ran along a trail, up steep banks to the Abrams home where he summoned Albert Abrams and Ole Bygjordet. Snatching their axes the men followed the boy down the trail. By this time they could barely see that the Slagle boy was still holding on to the boat. As there was no boat available, with superhuman effort they succeeded in launching a huge slab, some 15 feet in length. Using a board as a paddle Ole Bygjordet, despite the fact that he was unable to swim, started to the rescue of the boy clinging to the boat. While those on the beach watched in an agony of fear Bygjordet drew nearer and nearer. It seemed too much to hope that the boy, who had already been in the chilling waters for 45 minutes could hold on longer, but finally the brave rescuer reached him and maneuvering his crude craft dragged the unconscious boy to safety. Why the lad’s grip had not relaxed will never be explained, but sufficient that it did not and he was saved from death. At Cove Ed, still unconscious was placed in a car and rushed to the Abrams home where restoratives and first aid were administered. Although Dr. McMurray responded at once when called the boy was past the point of needing more when he arrived, than a thorough examination, plenty of heat and rest, all of which he received. Satisfied that no water had entered his lungs the doctor’s directions to remain in bed were followed. On Tuesday Ed was well enough to be taken to the home of his grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. S.K. Watson, with whom the Slages make their home.
W.D. Covington Resigns Position – After twelve years of commuting, through fair weather and foul, W.D. Covington has decided to become a country gentleman and has resigned his position with the Corporation Counsel after twenty-one years of continuous service. Previous to that he was clerk of the Federal court for about eight years, so taking everything into consideration Mr. Covington seems justified in feeling that he is entitled to a rest. His resignation become effective the first of the year. But Seattle’s loss will be Vashon Island’s gain as Mr. Covington is not the type to indulge in idleness and in between times, when the tulips and chickens on the West Side ranch do not require his attention he will help out, as in the past, in local affairs. He is now secretary-treasurer of the West Side Water Company. As a member of the board of trustees of the Seattle Young Business Men’s Club, he is the representative of the South District of which the Island is a part.
Mrs. Geo. Barnes Injured – Mrs. Ray Morley and Muriel were called to Seattle last week by the serious injury of Mrs. Morley’s mother, Mrs. Geo. Barnes, a former resident of the Island. Mrs. Barnes was injured by a fall of about seven feet from the back porch of her home. When the accident occurred Mrs. Barnes was moving a sack of coal which fell with her causing her to strike with even greater force across a board standing on edge about three inches high which tore loose a number of ligaments in her back. As no one was at home when the accident occurred Mrs. Barnes laid for almost two hours on the cold wet ground until she was accidentally found by a neighbor.
Installs New Heating System – The C.G. Kimmel store is now warm in every crook and cranny, due to the installation last week of a modern furnace. Apparently a furnace no longer calls for a basement, for this one is in the storeroom and functioning beautifully.
To date we have heard of no mothers who have succumbed to lonesomeness although the Island schools resumed operations again this week.
Tahlequah News Items – Amid the blare of tin trumpets, the hoarse blast of miniature fog horns and the deafening din of jangling bells and cheers of the merrymakers, Old Man 1932 was “tooted out” Saturday night, and Young 1933 given a hearty welcome by Tahlequahites. The celebration here nearly reached the proportion of an old-time Indian pow-wow or potlatch. The night was somewhat misty, and the waves beat a particular tattoo on the rocky beach, but it failed to dampen the spirits of the beach folks. Homes were a blaze of light, and many impromptu parties were arranged.
Tahlequah News Items – Residents are enjoying blooms on an Amazon lily in the home of Mr. and Mrs. C.P. Roberts. The lily, a present to Mr. Roberts from a sea captain thirty years ago, is declared to be the only one of its kind in the West. There are three spikes, each one having from three to five snowy white blooms with cups tinged with a delicate green.
Burton News Items – The home of Mrs. E. Landers, her home for about forty years, burned to the ground Sunday evening, during the absence of the family. Particulars not learned at this writing.

January 12, 1933

Who Will Be Miss Vashon This Year? – Although there is a comparatively short time remaining before the annual South District banquet for the election of a Miss Vashon Island, candidate for queen from the South District. It is hoped that the selection can be made to the satisfaction for all. During the past few years Miss Vashon Island has been chosen by the president of the Commercial Club, with one exception when she was chosen by the high school faculty. At a meeting of the executive committee on Monday evening, Pres. J.G. Bennett was authorized to select the young lady for this year. Dr. Bennett felt, however, that it would be preferable to have a contest of some sort, each district having an equal opportunity to enter a candidate for queen.
Burton News Items – The Burton post office will close Saturday afternoon from 3:15 to 3:30 out of respect to our veteran mail carrier, Amos Cummings, deceased, when his wishes will be carried out, that his ashes will be cast on the waters here. A brief commitment service by Rev. Fretz at the Burton dock at 3:15 will be followed by casting flowers, that friends may bring, over the waters.
Five deaths of Burton People from different causes, within a month, have left sorrowing hearts and bewildered minds. Time will soften these sorrows and bring out the silver lining when the clouds lift.
During 1932 patrons of the Vashon water district used 196,678,420 gallons of H2O.
One of the compensations for early risers the past few mornings has been the gorgeous moonlight that has been flooding the sky. Regardless of how the rain poured down during the day early morning was beautiful with moonlight.
While on their way to the early ferry Monday morning George and Glen Lewis collided with one of the Auto Freight trucks. Both were cut about the forehead by broken glass. They were taken care of by Dr. McMurray.
The Report of the Financial Condition of the Vashon State Bank at the close of business on the 31st day of December, 1932 showed total assets of $247,707.97.
High School Notes – So far this month our attendance has been materially affected by the “flu.” We reached the high point of absence Friday when a total of 37 students were out.
High School Notes – The recent heavy rains have penetrated the front of our building and come through in several places along the front wall. Mr. Allison has been busy with trow and tar in an effort to check the moisture.
Tahlequah News Items – Sweeping through like the advance guard of the Japanese army along the Chinese front, last Thursday’s windstorm caused considerable damage to property here. Trees were uprooted, and, lashed by the high wind, the waves added to the havoc already wrought on the waterfront. The top of one tree crashed through the roof of a cottage used as a storeroom on the R.K. Beymer property. Two trees were snapped off on Bert Lewis’ poultry ranch, and another large fir was uprooted. A 50-foot tree on the C.R. Roediger property blew down, narrowly missing the house. Waves swept over the D.C. Summers’ bulkhead, depositing stumps and other debris in the front yard. High water and high winds have made repair work on the walk in front of Fred Pohl’s property an impossibility, so pedestrian traffic continues to be routed via the county road.
Tahlequah News Items – County trucks and other highway machinery have been busy during the last four days filling the “shell craters” made by trucks hauling gravel over the Pohl road for the new state highway. The road was practically closed to travel for more than ten days, and an appeal was made by Tahlequahites to King county commissioners to repair it so that the mail car, bread and milk trucks could get through to serve patrons living north of the ferry dock.

January 19, 1933

A Seaman’s Funeral – On Saturday afternoon, January 14, when the steamer “Concordia” with Capt. Phillips at the wheel, arrived at Burton wharf, there appeared at the gang plank the familiar mail cart drawn by Shamis, the small pony, but the old driver of many years was not visible. The outbound mail pouch was under the seat as usual, but above it, draped in green lay a wreath that had been twined and placed there by the Burton postmaster, in the center of which was a small box containing all that was mortal of the aged employee of the office, Amos Cummings, whose death occurred in a Seattle hospital on January 8th from ailments of advanced years. The ashes were taken aboard the “Concordia”, followed by a large company of Island residents and visitors from Seattle and Tacoma who assembled on the lower deck of the boat. When in mid-harbor enroute to Dockton, Rev. Fretz spoke the words committing the remains to the deep, while Mr. Garvin cast the ashes onto the waters. Then the assembled group, thoughtfully provided with flowers, filed past the rail, each person dropping blossoms on the wind swept waves, while from the boat’s siren three prolonged blasts gave salute and as the echoes died on the hills of Dockton and the heights of Burton, fulfilling his desire, the old sailor went back to the sea. – Contributed.
Burton News Items – Chas. Cristman has been appointed mail carrier from boat to Burton post office, by Vashon Navigation Company – the job that Amos Cummings, deceased, had for years.
Car and Heavy Truck Collide North of Vashon – Last Friday morning, while driving through the dense fog to a morning ferry, the S.Swanson touring car was struck by a truck belonging to a Kent feed concern. After sideswiping the truck the Swanson car went into the ditch on the east side of the highway, while the truck, with a broken steering gear, overturned on the other side of the pavement. Although his car was practically a total wreck Mr. Swanson escaped with a badly bruised arm. The accident was investigated by the proper authorities but no blame was fixed, the decision being that it was purely a case of its being impossible in the thick fog to correctly judge the center of the pavement. Both drivers acknowledged having seen the lights of the other car.
Miss Vashon Island to be Elected by Popular Vote
Tahlequah News Items – High tides and winds that wrought havoc along the beach during the last three weeks having subsided, Tahlequahites are busily engaged repairing their waterfront property in anticipation of a busy camping season. R.K. Beymer has just completed repairing the upper structure of his 85-foot bulkhead, which was wrecked by a huge tree that was hurled upon it. Gilbert Smith is rebuilding his bulkhead, and repairs are being made to the D.C. Summers’ property. Bert Hotaling is preparing to rebuild his dock, which was wrecked when a huge cedar tree crashed upon it.
Tahlequah News Items – A squab farm is to be added to the list of profitable enterprises carried on by residents here, J. Richmond and H. Bales’ property east of the ferry dock. Imported birds will form the nucleus of the new business.
Mistletoe On Vashon Island – It is not generally known that the mistletoe grows here. North of the Vashon high school and a few rods east of the Goodwill Farm is an area of about four or five acres where there are no trees but a real bog of a species of beautiful golden sphagnum moss, two to four feet deep. On the northeast corner of this bog is a leaning fir tree, stretching its length over the moss and so low that you can reach the branches. This tree was covered with mistletoe when I last saw it. Several years ago Dr. Cowden Laughlin, his brother Lester, his sister, Miss Emma Laughlin, and I, were exploring this bog, when Miss Emma exclaimed: “Look at the mistletoe.” The old tree was covered with the plants, a vigorous growth and full of berries. Miss Laughlin, by the way, is a thoroughly equipped botanist and teaches the science in some eastern institution. – Steven J. Harmeling.
Dockton News – The launch “Niagra” has been on the Stuckey marine ways for the last week being repaired.
Southern Heights News – On Saturday evening Mr. Nolan was bringing home Mr. Wilcox, Mr. Sellect, Mr. D. Landers and Mr. Nehring from work on the road. At the foot of the Bodeen hill, on the side road, they turned out for the Daily Needs truck. The car skidded, hit the railing whose foundation had been weakened by heavy rains. The railing collapsed allowing the car to roll down the embankment, where it turned over twice and was completely wrecked. Fortunately no one was injured beyond minor cuts, bruises and a severe shaking up, all being able to return to work on Monday.
High School Notes – The Boys’ Club has taken up Ping Pong. A new table made by the manual training department from material furnished by the school board supplies the impetus. Two more sets have been ordered. The game furnishes a healthy and interesting outlet for that excess energy of which high school boys seem to have so much.

January 26, 1933

Howard H. Hansen Receives Appointment – Announcement of the appointment of Howard H. Hansen, president of the Vashon State Bank, to become state supervisor of banking, which was made public last Saturday, came as a surprise to his friends, who were unaware that he was being considered for the position. Mr. Hansen’s appointment was the result of the excellent reputation he had gained as state bank examiner in 1924, and as deputy state supervisor in 1925, the position which he gave up to fill the position left vacant by the death of his father, T. Hansen. Previous to his work with the state banking department Mr. Hansen has been for three years connected with the First National Bank of Everett. The vacancy left by Mr. Hansen’s resignation will be filled by Chas. F. VanOlinda. Mr. VanOlinda is familiar with the routine of the local bank having served several years as cashier. Mr. VanOlinda has grown up on the Island and is not only familiar with local conditions as an outsider could never be, but is also actively interested in the good of the entire community.
Receives Recognition For Military Service – E.F. Kneebone, of Lisabeula, has been honored by the War Department for being awarded the medal of the Purple Heart, in recognition of military merit displayed at the battle of Blanc Mont on October 4, 1918, when he was seriously wounded while in action against the enemy. Mr. Kneebone, who is now a bailiff in the Seattle court of Superior Judge Malcolm Douglas, has an enviable war record, having been previously awarded the Verdun Medal and the Victory Medal with four bronze stars. As an American machine gunner in the fierce fighting at Soissons on July 18, 1918, and later at St Mihiel, and in the white chalk trenches of the Champagne, Kneebone acquitted himself with great courage and high sense of duty. A member of Company “K”, 162nd Infantry, he sailed from Camp Mills, New York, December 11, 1917 on the Tuscania, which was torpedoed and sunk on her next voyage over. He was later transferred to Company “C”, 5th machine gun battalion, a unit of the Second Division, an organization with which he participated in three major engagements. The Purple Heart was established by George Washington at Newburgh, August 7, 1782 during the War of the Revolution, and was revived in honor of his memory and military achievements, February 22, 1932. The decoration consists of a heart-shaped medal with its center of purple enamel. On the obverse is a relief of George Washington in the uniform of a general of the Continental Army. On the reverse appears the inscription “For Military Merit”. The Washington Coat of Arms is incorporated in the ring, which attaches it to a purple ribbon, bordered with a narrow white stripe. The award is confined to those persons who, as members of the army, were awarded the Meritorious Services Citation Certificate by the Commander in Chief, A.E.F. or who were wounded in action under conditions which entitled them to wear a wound chevron.
Rod and Gun Club To Be Organized – For the purpose of co-operating with the recently formed game commission local sportsmen are organizing a Rod and Gun Club. The organization meeting will be held Friday evening, January 27th at 8 o’clock at the M & L Café. Through the activities of such an organization it is believed that more pheasants and deer can be liberated here, and some of the streams stocked with fish.
Queen Candidates Should Get Busy – Due to a slight misunderstanding as to the nomination for Miss Vashon Island we are unable this week to publish a very comprehensive list of candidates. The candidates chosen by the Girl’s Club of the high school are: Vashon, Elizabeth Keyes; Vashon Heights, Verna Dunbar; Cove-Colvos, Valborg Sarvold; Lisabeula-Southern Heights, Betty Miller; Maury, Katherine Berry; Ellisport-Portage, Mabel Miller; Burton, Jean Stone. Only three other names have been suggested, which are Irene Garvin, Vashon; June Beaumont, Lisabeula-Southern Heights and Pat Smith, Portage. Although the only reward in this contest is the fun of winning, and of being the recipient of the attention paid the various district queens, there is just as much chance of our Miss Vashon Island being chosen “Miss South End” as any of the other thirty pretty misses representing their Commercial Clubs.
Not only the Scotch, but all of the other nationalities represented by our Island folk, are taking advantage of the offer made in last week’s paper of a dollar a year for old or new subscriptions. A number have paid for several years in advance, feeling that prosperity is just around the corner, and that never again will a dollar purchase so much News-Record. A few new subscribers have come into the fold in the past week, and more have signified their intention. All of which makes us feel mighty good. In case you failed to read the offer made in last week’s News-Record we will repeat it. Until February 11th we have reduced the price of the paper to $1 per year. This applies to old or new subscriptions, past due or in advance. We will take all the dollars that come and exchange each one for a year of the Island paper.
In this week’s issue and next will be coupons to be turned in with each subscription which will count as votes for Miss Vashon Island, our charming representative at the South District Consolidated Commercial Club banquet February 11th. Our statement in last week’s paper was a bit vague. Each year’s subscription will count, and the choice of person sending in two dollars will be credited with the proper number of votes. In clipping the coupon from the paper do not fail to fill in the name of one of the Island girls.
Load Of Lumber Upsets On Vashon Heights Grade – While coming up the Heights hill Thursday evening, A.T. Bacchus, driving a truck loaded with lumber met with what might have been a serious accident. As it was, the chief injury was to temper, although the truck was slightly damaged. Mr. Bacchus was coming up the hill, which was covered with snow and ice, following the bus. As the driver of the bus turned out to pass the car in front, he failed to shift to second gear quickly enough to avoid stalling. As the Bacchus truck was brought to a standstill it began to slip backward, and swerved off of the pavement with one rear wheel up on the bank. The rear chain broke allowing the load to slip partially off, the weight tipping the opposite rear wheel off of the ground. Leland England, who was following the Bacchus truck narrowly escaped being struck. The only thing to be done was to cut the chain holding the load to the truck and allow the entire lot of lumber slip to the ground and reload it. As it was one of the coldest nights we have had this winter it was not a pleasant task.
High School Notes – The heavy snowfall last week damaged the roads somewhat in that the buses were late and several of them were stalled on their way to school. Last Friday our attendance was greatly lowered due to the flu and snow. There were 52 absent – almost 25 percent of the student body.
An epidemic of impetigo has caused the absence from school of a number of pupils. This is the first serious appearance of the disease in several years, but as rigid means are being taken by the teachers in sending affected children home it is not feared that the epidemic will continue.
His many friends are wondering whence came the original of the picture of Howard Hansen in last Sunday’s P-I. While the one in this week’s News-Record may appear a year or two youthful we are glad to err on that side rather than the manner in which Mr. Hearst’s publication did. Mr. Hansen insists that he is ignorant of the origin of Sunday’s atrocity, and he should know if anyone does.
The bright sunshine and mild breezes, coming on the heels of last week’s snow seems to promise much, but it is too early to put much confidence in our fickle weather. Last week a letter received from Idaho said, “I suppose you have begun to plant early garden and flower seeds.” It’s well that someone has faith in what our climate can do.
The Island crew of county road men are doing their best to keep the roads in passable condition. The scraper was at work in the vicinity of Vashon on Monday.
Tahlequah News Items – Tahlequah, like all other places on the Island, has witnessed a great variety of climates; such as strong winds, rain, freezing temperatures, and now a soft blanket of snow. In spite of this, all are very optimistic and are looking forward to a pleasant spring

February 1933
February 2, 1933

Veterans of Foreign Wars to Organize – Feeling that an organization of veterans would be for the good of the entire Island several ex-service men are sponsoring a meeting of all veterans of foreign wars next Monday evening, February 6th, at the Lisabeula schoolhouse. All ex-service men who have served outside of the United States either in the Spanish-American or World wars are eligible to membership. Walter L. Daniels, of the Comptrollers Department, Seattle, one of the district officers, will either himself be present or provide a speaker for the evening. The purpose of this meeting is not entirely for the purpose of organization, but rather to get together the ex-service men to decide whether the formation of a post of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, or the American Legion would best suit the needs of the locality. It is urged that all service men be on hand to express an opinion in the matter. The name under which this organization would be formed is of little consequence, the important thing being to get it formed and at work doing the valuable work that either would do. The time of the meeting is 8 o’clock.
Road Committee Making Headway – On Monday a committee, consisting of Chas. England, Geo Sheffield, R.K. Beymer, F.H. Grandy, and Coy Meredith met with the highway committee of the Tacoma Chamber of Commerce and received from them their enthusiastic support in an attempt to secure sufficient funds for completing the Burton-Tahlequah road, now unfinished between Lara’s and Sheffield’s, and between Shawnee and Burton. With the $6,000 remaining from the original appropriation it is estimated that an additional $3,000 would be necessary to complete the road. On Tuesday Mr. England and Mr. Meredith, together with one of the officials of the Chamber of Commerce, went to Olympia, where they conferred with the highway committee, and received considerable encouragement. They also called upon Howard Hansen in his new office at the capitol.
Chas. Van Olinda At His New Post – With the resignation of Howard Hansen, president of the Vashon State Bank, the management of the institution has been taken over by Chas. Van Olinda, vice-president. Mr. Van Olinda, who for a number of years worked under the late T. Hansen, states that the affairs of the bank will be carried on, as far as possible, in accordance with the principles followed by the elder Mr. Hansen, upon whose shoulders rested the responsibility of a bank that has come to be recognized as one of the strongest in the state, and whose principles were continued by his son. L.C. Beall Jr., formerly vice-president, is now the president of the bank, taking over the office left vacant by Mr. Hansen’s resignation. The other interests of Mr. Beall make it impossible for him to devote his time to the actual management of the bank, so the duties connected with the operation of the bank have been relegated to Mr. Van Olinda and Ralph Steen, who has been cashier for a number of years.
Sportsmen’s Club Formed – Last Friday evening twenty-nine men, interested in the same subject met, and signed up for membership in the Vashon Island Sportsmen’s Club, the purpose of which is to preserve the game already on the Island, and to secure new stock. The officers elected were E.R. Nepage, president; Carl I. Wick, secretary and Geo. McCormick, treasurer. A committee was appointed to meet on next Saturday with Ben Paris, Seattle member of the new game commission. A meeting of the club will be held February 9th.
Prospective Queens’ Time Is Cut Short – In a letter this week from the secretary of the Consolidated South District Commercial Club, Dr. Bennett was informed that Miss Vashon Island was due in Seattle on Saturday afternoon, February 4th, to have her picture taken to appear in the Sunday’s papers. It was decided, therefore to cut the time of the contest one day, so all votes must be in the hands of Dr. Bennett, or at the News-Record office by 8 o’clock, Friday evening. They will be counted by a committee of the Commercial Club. It is regrettable that the time for this contest has been so short. It was the fault of no one in particular, and the girls realizing this will be satisfied with the outcome.
Reduced Rate Nets Results – That the Island folk like the News-Record and feel that at a dollar a year they cannot get along without it, is evidenced by the manner in which subscriptions are being renewed. It is the first time in many years that the Island paper has been offered to its subscribers at such low terms, a fact which is recognized. This special rate of one dollar per year will be good until Saturday, February 11th. Those wishing to pay back subscriptions, renewals, or in advance may do so at this price. As we do no intend to make this low rate a regular yearly offer, those paying in advance will in all likelihood be saving money. It is gratifying that we have had a number of new subscribers who have taken advantage of the special rate.
Changeable weather fails to dampen the ardor of Tahlequahites who are busily engaged preparing gardens and improving their beach and upland property. More persons are spending the winter here than in previous years, and consequently are making great strides in enhancing the value of their real estate holdings.

February 9, 1933

Miss Jean Stone Is Miss Vashon
Fire Does Little Damage – A fire, which apparently was caused from a damaged chimney, set fire to the roof of an outbuilding housing the furnace, at the Kirkland home Monday afternoon. Although the fire was practically under control by the time they arrived Puget Sound employees and Ed Zarth arrived as soon as the alarm was given, bringing fire extinguishers, and in a few moments the chemicals belonging to the Vashon department arrived in the Met-Cro wrecker, so there was little chance for more than a little damage, possibly not to exceed $35. The Kirkland family is indeed grateful for the quick answer to their call for help, and for the aid given in extinguishing the blaze which might have involved serious loss.
Can We Beautify Our Highways? – With spring rapidly approaching, and the time for planting shrubs and trees at hand it is timely to consider some plan for the beautification of our Island, some unique, concerted plan which would add to the charm of our Island highways. A few years ago the Campfire girls began to work out some such plan and began planting mountain ash trees along the edge of the pavement. These trees have had little care, yet even so they are beginning to make a showing, and it will not be long until they will make the Heights hill beautiful. The original idea was to continue this planting of ash trees to Camp Sealth, at the South End. It has been several years since additional trees have been planted, and apparently the scheme has been abandoned. It would not be difficult, with the foundation of natural beauty which we already possess, to beautify our Island highways to such an extent that tourists would tell to the world what we are doing. Those who have traveled through Oregon note the manner in which roses have been planted around service stations, along highways, and in every conceivable spot along the highways. Through the work of women’s clubs millions of seeds of native wild flowers and common annuals were planted along the highway which skirts Hood’s Canal. The natural beauty of the rhododendrons growing in the woods on the Peninsula attract thousands. By the same sign it would not be difficult to make our Island highways outstanding providing we arrived, by some method, of beautification, then kept up the good work until we had the work definitely established. What could be lovelier than a highway bordered with roses, such as border lawn at Rosebank? True, the Dorothy Perkins is susceptible to mildew, but grown out in the open it is not hard to care for. The American Pillar rose is easily cared for, and thrives particularly on the Island. Those versed in the subject of horticulture could possibly make many intelligent, feasible suggestions. Present conditions will not last forever, but the beauty of any growing things which we might planted now will go on increasing and advertising our Island as no amount of other publicity could.
Veterans Organize – Twelve veterans of foreign wars signed up for membership in the national organization at the meeting held last Monday evening at the Lisabeula schoolhouse. The next meeting, at which plans for organizing the local unit will be made, will be held at the Island Club a week from next Monday evening.
About the best news we can report is that Dr. McMurray states the flu epidemic is practically over. This has been the worst epidemic since the winter of 1918-19.
Cove, Cedarhurst and Colvos Items – There was a big dirt slide near the Cove store. Two trees came down with the slide.
Mr. Allen’s Coffee Shop will be closed for a couple of months until times brighten up a bit and more than home consumers will want meals. Mr. Allen says he will be on the job again when that time comes.

February 16, 1933

Vashon Boy Scouts Entertain at Dinner – On Monday evening eighty Boy Scouts, parents and friends enjoyed a delicious chicken pie dinner at the Vashon Scout cabin. It was the largest affair of its kind ever held on the Island, and the fine spirit that prevailed was encouraging, indeed, to the boys and their leaders, and gave to the parents and visitors a new conception of the possibilities of the work.
Past Patrons’ Club Organized – On February 8th eight past matrons of the Island Chapter No. 170 O.E.S. met at the home of Mrs. Cora Stone who was assisted by Mrs. Elizabeth Hearst in serving a lovely four course luncheon. The purpose of the meeting was the organization of a Past Matrons’ Club. Those present were Lillian Marsh, past matron in 1920; Maude Morris 1921; Ethel Weiss, 1925; Julia Sherman, 1926; Cora Stone, 1928; Katherine Hansen, 1929; Elizabeth Hearst, 1931; Lillian Williams, 1932. The past matrons absent were Hattie Ogilvy, 1922; Aletta Hayes, 1923; Gertrude Wiman, 1924; Nettie Whittemore, 1930 and Annie Mackie, 1927, deceased. The following officials were elected for the ensuing year: Lillian Marsh, president; Maude Morris, vice-president; Julia Sherman, secretary; Lillian Williams, treasurer.
Young Man Seriously Injured – Albert Hofmeister met with a serious and painful injury on Monday of this week. While sawing wood with a drag saw Hofmeister was using a double bitted ax as a wedge in the piece of log that he was cutting. This released the saw, which in some manner caught the handle of the ax, throwing the blade upward. Striking the face of the man it cut the flesh of the jaw, shaving the bone, and severed the muscles about the eye. Hofmeister was taken at once to the office of Dr. Grandy. It was difficult to give him anesthetic, and impossible to work on him until he was unconscious, so as a result he suffered a terrible loss of blood, in addition to the pain of his wounds. He was removed to his home on Tuesday.
High School Notes – Old Man Depression became prominent at Vashon high school this morning. Students who, up to this time, had failed to recognize that the wolf was promenading on the high school steps, became aware of the fact when teachers informed them that a maximum of eight sheets of theme paper, per week, would be allowed each pupil – for the remainder of the school year. This means that the freshmen must cease drawing pictures and the seniors’ note writing will have to stop. Because of the great amount of money in unpaid taxes it has been found necessary to cut down school expenses. This new economy, which is one of the savings being effected this year is expected to reduce the deficit.
Recently a school of 16 blackfish furnished spectators on the dock at the Heights an interesting exhibition when they played about for some time. One fish went under the slip and gave an excellent view at close range, much to the delight of the youngsters.
Cove, Cedarhurst and Colvos Items – Mr. Victor Beaudreau fell through the ice while skating. Luckily the water was only waist deep.
Cove, Cedarhurst and Colvos Items – During the last week school has been dismissed early on account of frozen pipes. Snow has lain on the grounds ever since the first snowfall, some three weeks ago.
Tahlequah News Items – Old Man Winter descended upon Tahlequah last week, delivering such a wallop that most of the folks took the count, at least so far as their plumbing was concerned. The entire water system supplying the Gilber Smith and C.R. Roediger properties was wrecked by the freeze, followed by a cave-in. Two days were required to clear the debris and get the system in operation. Water pipes froze up at every other place here, causing no little damage and a peck of trouble.

February 23, 1933

Stone And Green Nominated – At a caucus held at Burton this week two candidates for the three year term of school director for Dist. 211, were nominated, namely, Elmer Stone, present incumbent, and Phil Green.
Road Beautifying Committee Meets – On Tuesday evening the road beautifying committee of the Commercial Club met at the home of Royce Wise. After a general discussion it was decided that this year’s program would consist principally in getting a strip along each side of the highway cleared and ready for planting. This will be done under the direction of Supervisor Rhulen as a relief project. This year native jackpine will be planted along the highway, from the Heights, to Burton, every 60 feet, 14 feet back from the road. The work will be done under the auspices of various civic organizations, each being responsible for a certain definite section. A large amount of flower seeds has been purchased, perennials, which will be planted on vacant corners along the way. It is planned also to buy a large number of seedlings of the double red hawthorn and have these cared for until next year, when they will be planted midway between each of the pine trees. With the cooperation of everyone this project should result in a highway beautiful, of which the Island can be justly proud, and which will be worth the effort involved.
Veterans of Foreign Wars Sign Charter – Veterans of Foreign Wars met at the Island Club House Monday to draw up the charter of the new Island Post. Ten veterans from Vashon were present and all signed the charter. The post is now formed and we wish all veterans of any wars who left the United States during hostilities, come to the Island Club next Monday night, February 27th, at 7:30 to learn something of this organization and join with us in its meritorious work. – John E. Ober, Adjutant-protem.
Editorial – by Agnes L. Smock – The report has come to us with so much persistency that certain officials of the high school board and faculty have charged us with dishonesty that the matter can no longer be ignored. It is charged that letters, which have recently been published in this paper have been written, not by the persons whose names were signed, but by the editor. This is out and out libel. At no time during the past more than four years has anything appeared in the News-Record written by us to which the name of another person was affixed.
Not In The Game – To Whom It May Concern – A clique of petty politicians is industriously circulating the rumor that in case Mr. Sundberg is elected, as school director of District No. 102, I shall be an applicant for the position of principal of Columbia School. Allow me to state that I am not and shall not be an applicant for any teaching position on Vashon Island or elsewhere. – R.E. Stafford.
Receives Electric Brooder – L.S. Kneebone was the lucky person to receive the electric brooder and water fountain, complete with 50 husky, healthy baby chicks, presented by the Puget Sound Power and Light Company at the close of the demonstration in the window of the Vashon Hardware store.
Fifty Years Ago – Citizens of Vashon Island have forwarded a petition to Washington for the establishment of a post office and a weekly mail. As the Island is about three miles wide and 12 or 14 long and has several hundred residents the office should certainly be established.

March 1933
March 2, 1933

Senior Class Will Present “Fifty-fifty” – The cast is as follows: Henry Brown, an artist, Lewis Schmidt; Paul Smith, an author, Ferguson Beall; Patrick O’Malley, a janitor, Don Canfield; Mrs. Podge, a landlady, Lorna Danielson; Sophie Bland, a dancer, Mable Wilber; May Dexter, an enthusiast, Elsie Merry; Mrs. Hawley, a collector, Cora Coates; Smudge, a valet, Kenneth Beall; Cap, a wanderer, Paulgrave Coates; Josephine, a seeker, Margaret Smith. – Class Reporter
High School Notes – The shrubbery, donated by Mr. Ramquist to the school, was set out Saturday, along the front of the building. We now have adequate shrubbery to make our building appear at its best. The botany classes will plant bulbs and other flowers in the beds in front of the building as soon as weather conditions permit.
High School Notes – Prospects for carrying on the high school on Vashon Island next year were brightened when Governor Martin signed the educational bill last week, whereby the state will assume practically one-half the cost. An interesting provision of the new law may require pupils to get more exercise than they are now receiving. The budget of the high school will be subject to review by a commission consisting of a member of the local board, the county superintendent and three citizens of King county, who are taxpayers and registered voters and who will be appointed by the states tax commission. This commission at its discretion may require pupils residing within two miles of an established bus route to travel to the route at their own expense.
Burton News Items – During the auxiliary dinner Friday evening, Dr. Grandy answered a telephone call, which proved to be a fire alarm calling for help at the Geo. Bucknell home west of town. Mrs. Swank courageously quieted the women with music, while the men “went forth to battle!” The fire proved to be the chimney burning out, which from a distance gave the appearance of the whole house in flames. The firemen were soon back in the hall and enjoyed the balance of the program.
Tahlequah News Items – Systematic thefts of forest wood and bark, cut by Carl Rooth, were brought to an abrupt end, it is believed, by the discovery of two men loading a truck with the fuel. Gilbert Smith saw the men, one of them declared to be a foreigner, stealing the wood, and obtained the license number of the Ford truck. King county authorities were notified, and arrests will probably be made shortly, unless the license number proves to be a fictitious one. In all, more than fifteen cords of wood and bark have been stolen during the last two weeks.

March 9, 1933

Island Man Publishes Book – O.S. VanOlinda has recently completed a series of short sketches, which he has “dedicated to pioneers of all times and all countries, but more particularly to those of Western Nebraska.” This first edition is of particular interest because of the fact that it was printed, from hand-set type, and bound, by the author, who has not forgotten what he learned in a country print shop.
Road Crews To Be Staggered – In order to spread money being paid for road work on the Island over the greatest territory a double crew has been arranged and the work will be staggered, one crew working two weeks and the other the next two weeks. While this works a bit of hardship on the regular workers, many of them have held their present positions since the beginning of the present administration; it spreads the money being paid for wages over a greater territory. Several of the men who have been dependent on relief work will now be put on the road crew.
Local Post Organized – A post of Veterans of Foreign Wars has been formed on Vashon Island. This post has been named for Corp. Albert Roberts, a former resident of Vashon, who made the supreme sacrifice somewhere in France. Officers were elected at last meeting. They are Carl Wick, Commander; Dan Landers, Senior Vice Commander; John O. Gabourel, Junior Vice Commander; John Ober, Quartermaster Adjutant; Clarence Potter, Officer of the Day; and Chas. Keen, Ray Campbell and John Brink as trustees. Roberts Post invites all eligible men to meet with the present members next Monday at the Island Club for an enjoyable time, good eats and a chance to get acquainted with some comrades from Seattle posts.
Local Bank Is In Excellent Condition – While the bank holiday imposed by state and federal officials was a measure for the preservation of many banks the country over it was entirely unnecessary from the standpoint of the local bank, and hence worked a hardship on the Island patrons that was uncalled for. However, no one was seriously inconvenienced, and the officers of the bank showed the proper attitude in observing the holiday. The Vashon State Bank is in the enviable position of being in as good condition as any state bank in Washington and what measure is adopted by state or national government will not have any appreciable effect on it. It will, of course, obey the instructions issued but not because of any financial necessity. Just what the future action of the bank will be will be determined by the orders received. As far as the condition of our bank is concerned it could today do business just as it has for the past ten years, but it will be necessary to abide by the decision of the powers that be. From all indications, as we go to press, the local bank will not be permitted to resume business until Friday, when all checks will be cashed in the medium of exchange permitted by the federal government.
Nearly 1,000 Trees Planted Along Road – The planting of trees along the Island highways is progressing at a rapid rate under the enthusiastic direction of Royce Wise, who has used his truck to haul trees as well as workers. Trees are being taken from vacant land so are costing nothing. The Heights residents have completed their section, planting 500 trees from the dock to Fjeld’s corner. The section from Fjeld’s to the Glen Acres road will be taken care of by workers from the Goodwill Farm, with Mr. Wise furnishing the truck and trees. The Vashon Boy Scouts will take care of a section between the Glen Acres road and Vashon. At the South End, the Burton Improvement Club, with the help of the Burton Scouts have planted 350 trees, coming north to the Judd Creek Bridge. The triangle plot of ground, where the old Cedarhurst road leaves the pavement, is to be plowed up, the large sign, which now occupies it is to be moved, and flower seed will be planted. The improvement made in clearing the underbrush and ferns from the roadside is surprising, which added to the planting of the pines makes a fine beginning for the future beautification of our Island roads.
High School Notes – “On woe is us” moans the senior class. Now that our new president has closed the banks, no one has any money to come and see the senior play unless they were among the first to buy tickets, and after all the work they did to bring down the price of tickets so everybody could come. Oh well, you can still get some cash Friday and buy your tickets at the door. Remember Friday March 10th at 8:00 o’clock.
Burton News Items – John Gammell left Thursday for Olympia to visit the legislature, and on the side to watch the unemployed army march to the city and march out again. John has not returned yet, we are not sure whether he got lost in sympathy and joined the march, or is stopping with relatives in Olympia.
The Burton Improvement Club planted over 300 pine trees, March 4, from Burton to Bibbins corner on both sides of the highway. The following helped with the planting under the direction of Royce Wise representing the Commercial Club, and Mr. Lloyd McElvain, Scout Master of the Boy Scouts. At noon Mrs. Lilian Bucknell and Mrs. Knowles served a hot dinner to the hungry workers, whose names were Tuckie Smith, Bill Poage, Hugh Little, Harold Hartvigsen, James Butler, Warren Van Buskirk, Lowell Hansen, Joe Green, George Bucknell, Jesse Shaw, Mr. Paulhamus, Royce Wise and Lloyd McElvain.
Editorial – While it is not for a little country paper to question the action of those who control the operation of the banks of our country we feel that an injustice has been perpetrated locally by the present bank holiday. The Vashon State Bank is in the same condition it was a year ago and in the same position to transact business. Yet because other banks in the country had not been conducted along strictly ethical lines and were shaky a general order was issued and in accordance with this order our local bank was obliged to suspend business. We are too intelligent a community not to realize that the inconvenience we have suffered was no fault of our local bank, and the probability is that this is the last bank holiday which will be inflicted on us. Had an order been issued by the federal authorities forbidding the payment of gold or gold certificates, allowing our strong local bank to do business as usual, there would have been nothing to complain of. But we feel that under the local conditions a grave injustice has been done. As a community we can, however, congratulate ourselves on the fact that it took federal action to close for a week our bank which from its organization almost thirty years ago has borne the reputation of a safe and sane institution. Each person in business on the Island will have to bear in mind that the same hardship has been inflicted on business concerns all over the country and bear with as good grace as possible, the only way in which we can all help in getting back to the normal condition which is inevitable.
Tahlequah News Items – Clams on the Puget Mill Company’s property near the ferry slip have suffered during the last few weeks from persons coming over from Tacoma and poaching. The city folks are not satisfied with getting a mess of the bivalve mollusks, but are carrying them away in gunnysacks. Suggestion has bee made that a game warden would be able to make a few arrests if he journeys to Tahlequah when low tides prevail.
Vashon Heights News – By next Sunday the Height’s men who are helping to beautify the highways, hope to accomplish planting all of the Jack pine trees from the dock to Fjeld’s corner.
Vashon Heights News – The past week at the Heights people were curious to find out the business of a coast guard cutter that landed at the dock. It was feared that a sunken barge that had drifted in, might snap off some of the pilings at high tide. Finally the barge was taken in tow to Fauntleroy.
Vashon Heights News – Spring has reached the Heights. Quantities of violets, many grape hyacinths, snowdrops, crocuses and primroses are in bloom. Another indication of spring is the numerous passenger cars coming off the ferry on Saturday and Sunday.
Cove, Cedarhurst and Colvos Items – Mr. Albin Sundberg was elected director of District 102 for a three year term. The vote to give the directors power to deed a strip for a highway through the school property passed with a good majority.

March 16, 1933

New Organization Plan Dance – On Saturday evening, March 25th, the Island chapter of Veterans of Foreign Wars will sponsor a dance at the Island Club. This first dance of a series the organization is planning will be given to defray the expenses of the organization of the chapter, the proceeds from the later ones will be used for local relief work. Friends of the organization are urged to keep this date in mind and be among those present at the initial affair of the veterans.
Bank Reopened On Wednesday Morning – This morning (Wednesday) the local bank was in receipt of instructions to reopen and carry on business just as though no banking holiday had kept the doors of the institution closed for almost two weeks. This was indeed good news to everyone, not alone the clerical force of the bank. All functions of the bank will be carried on just the same as always Vice-president C.F. VanOlinda announced this morning. He expressed his appreciation of the consideration that has been shown by the Island patrons, and the many expressions of confidence that have been voiced. It was rather hard for us, as a community, convinced of the soundness of our local institution to be reconciled to the experience we have just gone through, but it is over now, and it has given us all a deeper appreciation of how necessary our bank is in our daily living.
Public Dump Ground Is Now Ready For Use – Ira O. Thompson, chairman of the agriculture committee of the Commercial Club reports that the public garbage dump, for Vashon-Maury Island is now ready for use. The road to the north entrance has been graded and makes the dump easily accessible. This road is one-half mile east of the end of the pavement at Center. It is plainly marked. The south entrance will be between the gravel pit and the top of the hill on the Ellisport road. It must be cleared and graded before it will be ready for use. It is hoped that since a dumping ground has been provided that civic pride will prevent the present method of disposal along the roadsides. Old tin cans, discarded autos, and the miscellaneous junk and rubbish which makes our beautiful highways unsightly is not good advertising. It is unlawful to dispose of garbage in this manner, but now, with a central dumping grounds there will be no necessity for breaking this law. A general clean-up day is under consideration. Much could be done through concerted action. The committee is working hard and presenting a program that has much of worth. The splendid cooperation being accorded them is resulting in a number of improvements, the least of which is not the public dumping ground which has filled a long felt need in our community.
P.S. Pettelle Severs Connection With Carnation – Mr. Paul Pettelle, long time resident of Vashon Island, reports his resignation from Carnation Ice Cream Co., to enter the merchandise brokerage firm of Walter J. Russell Co. with which he was connected some years ago. This will not affect the Carnation milk route on Vashon Island, which will continue to be managed by James Pettelle. Mr. Pettelle, Sr., has been in ill health since before Christmas and it is expected the change from his previous strenuous occupation will be beneficial.
High School Notes – The process of beautifying the Island highways by planting pine trees along the roadside was stimulated last Friday at the student body meeting when volunteers were called for to aid with the planting of the trees. The high school is to have supervision over the section of road between the telephone office and the top of the Ellisport hill. This work will not only improve the appearance of the highway but will also add to the attractiveness of the school.
High School Notes – Honor Roll – The honor roll for the fourth six-weeks’ period is as follows: Eleanor Beall, Bertha Huseby, Florence Radin, Ona Nelson, Gretchen Tanamura, Mildred Castle, Hildur Agren, Betty Calloway, Charlotte Canfield, Eloise Hoel, Eleanor Larson, Don Matsumoto, Howard Collings, Gilbert Holland, Bill Meyer, Joe Ramquist, Thomas Thompson, Don Canfield, Sandy Gorsuch, Lewis Schmidt, Ferguson Beall, Bill Wilbur, Margaret Takasuka, Bob Wilber, Don Dunbar. Alice Ensing, Bertha Hauge, Dorothy Hoshi, Leah Kirkland, Stanley Dahl, Alwyn Edson, Howard Nichols, Chas. Pettelle, Paul Petersen, Dave Schwartz, Ed Slagle, Lois Clark, Mary Jane Keyes, Vera Hake, Elizabeth Heydine, Ruth Heydine, Georgia Livers, Gwen Rees, Beula Schopel, Rose Takasuka, Phil Green, Dick Slagle, Tuckie Smith, Geneva Jeffers.
Vashon Heights’ News – Tuesday the people coming home on the Verona were given an extra thrill and boat ride. One of the steam pipes blew up, making it impossible to navigate. The passenger boat, Winslow, stood by and took off the passengers taking them on their regular run, around Bainbridge Island. They were just one hour later in arriving at Vashon Island.
Letter Tells Father Of Long Beach Quake – It was received Tuesday morning from Mrs. Clayton Campbell, of Long Beach, a daughter of Grandpa Garvin’s and a sister of W.D. and Miss Nina.
The Ramquist family was indeed happy to receive a letter on Tuesday evening from Mayreld, who is attending school in Los Angeles and to know that she suffered no ill effects from her recent terrifying earthquake experience.
Carl Wick is starting work on the 28 acres which he recently purchased a short distance west of the Vashon grammar school. With the help of John Ober a road has been built into the property. As soon as sufficient clearing has been completed Mr. Wick will begin building brooder and chicken houses.
Cove, Cedarhurst and Colvos Items – Mr. A.E. Long’s sister in Compton, Calif., had her place ruined by the earthquake and she had to be carried out on a stretcher.
Burton News Items – District 211, P.T.A. are having a waffle day at Allen’s Coffee Shop, Burton, Saturday, March 18. Come help the milk fund and get some good waffles at the same time.
Burton News Items – We are thankful that our district so far has had no earthquakes, but one of our local citizens, Bill Allen, almost got lost in a mud hole on East Burton Heights, several nights ago. His small feet saved him.
Tahlequah News Items – A new pontoon of the latest type will be installed within the next few days at the ferry dock here. The present pontoon is not strong enough to care for the heavy traffic that is anticipated this summer, it is believed. The new structure, too, will facilitate a more speedy handling of traffic, according to the ferry operators.
Neighbors Enjoy Dance In New Garage – On Friday evening 25 of his friends gathered to help Mr. Ed Keuntz properly initiate the new garage he has just completed. A five-piece orchestra furnished the music for dancing. The average garage is not usually dignified thusly with a “warming,” but the new one Mr. Keuntz has built is fine enough for a home for humans. It is 20 x 40 feet in size, has a double floor and is finished in cedar siding. Only boards with knots were selected for the walls and ceiling, which is beamed with hand hewn, polished beams, all stained a warm brown. The party was also the fifth anniversary of the wedding of Mr. and Mrs. A. Hulsether.
A Letter We Appreciate – The following letter was so out of the ordinary that while it was not for publication we are going to share a part of it with our readers: Dear Mrs. Smock- I just want to take time to tell how I do appreciate “our Island paper.” It’s just like a letter every week. I so often compare the Island folk to a big family around a giant hearth. A family? Yes, and all the ins and outs that go to make it up; arguments, heated and otherwise – now and then a voice, “There, there now children – not too loud. Mary, please remember where you are! You’re tired tonight. I’m thinking you’d better fill the hot water bottle and cuddle yourself down in bed. In the morning things will look different. And John, can’t you go and get your sweater and cap – put on your scarf, and go for a nice fast walk along the beach. The tide is coming in, throwing the salt spray. It will be good for you. Better stop at the kennel and unloose Rover. He’ll like to go along – he’s been tied up all day. Come, and walk fast so the red will be in your cheeks. I’ll have some lunch ready when you come back.” Just like that it seems. I send your paper every week to my daughter east of the mountains and she says: “I begin on the first page in the corner and read it all – to the last page.”
County Welfare Board Thrown Into High Gear – Machinery of the King County Welfare Board has been thrown into high gear with supervisors, home visitors and aides in the country districts instructed to see that a personal visitation is made, prior to March 20, to the home of every family now receiving aid. “We are crowding the workers to the limit in getting these visitations made,” said W.D. Garvin, chairman of the advisory board for this district. “While we are particularly desirous of seeing that all who are in need are properly cared for, we are also anxious to see that those who are not entitled to aid are eliminated from the program as the earliest possible moment.”

March 23, 1933

Annual Luncheon at Kingsbury Lodge – In celebration of the fourth anniversary of the founding of the Portage Orthopedic Auxiliary an exceptionally large and enthusiastic crown gathering of members and their friends met at Kingsbury Lodge Friday afternoon, March 17 and after listening to annual reports of officers spent several hours in routine sewing.
Management of Local Theatre Changed – Within the past week the management of the Vashon Theatre has been assumed by Burton Campbell. Feeling that the Island people will support a carefully conducted place of amusement Mr. Campbell plans on giving his full time and effort to conducting the local show house on the same lines as the community theatres of the city are conducted. It has been a long time since the theatre has been managed by a local person who understood the Island people and their tastes. Mr. Campbell can surely qualify in this respect as he has lived here from childhood. He hopes to win the confidence of the theatre goers who during the past few years have been discouraged by the spasmodic attempts of managers whose local interest was only in the profits from the business and who cared little else for the community. Mr. Campbell plans to make ours a show house of high class amusement.
Sportsman’s Club Meeting Friday – The attention of farmers, sportsmen and conservationists is called to mass meeting to be held at 8:00 o’clock next Friday evening, March 24th at the Island Club. This meeting is sponsored by the newly formed Sportsman’s Club of which E.R. NePage is president. Believing that the farmer and the hunter or fisherman has a common ground Mr. NePage urges that both the farmer and the sportsman attend this meeting. The Sportsmen’s Club is growing in popularity and a surprisingly large number of members have already turned in their application for membership. The small dues make it easy to belong to, and the vigorous spirit that is being evidenced by the organization has a particular appeal to the Island men.
Writers’ Club To Be Formed – Since there are a number of really gifted people on the Island it is thought that by forming a Writers’ Club this talent could be brought out into the open. It is requested that anyone interested in the matter phone Miss Marjorie Stanley at once.
Plant Pines Along Highway – On Saturday 15 Vashon Boy Scouts and leaders put in an exceptionally strenuous day when they planted some 350 pine trees along the highway over a territory extending from the high school to half way between Center and the telephone office. So fast did they work that they could be classed as a flying squad. By noon they were ready for the fine dinner that was waiting them at the Island Club, prepared by the Camulos Club. Vashon is indeed proud of these Boy Scouts as well as the leaders who are inspiring them to their best efforts.
Island Youngsters Win In Declamatory Contest – Last Friday afternoon at Foster the district declamatory contest for the grammar grades was held. The competing schools were Foster, Sunnydale and Vashon. Eight pupils took part. Vashon has every reason to feel justly proud of its contestants as James Cronander won first place in the oratorical group; Dorothy Wight and Stanley Schmidt second in the humorous and dramatic.
The 4 B’s Club, which existed here some years ago, will have a reunion of the “old bunch” and their families at Kingsbury Lodge, April 1st, where, after a bountiful dinner, a social evening will be spent and probably at this time the meaning of the “4 B’s” will be explained. Anyway it will bring together a fine group of people who where the pride of our town, clean minded young men, bent on making their high school years count, and every one has made good. Nothing but illness should keep any of the old club members or their families away from this interesting gathering.
A great deal of interest among the humans and a great deal of excitement among the baby chicks at the Beall ranch has been aroused by the three legged chicken which came from one of the late batches. The little fellow has to be kept separated from the rest of the babies who insist on removing forcibly the third leg, which is growing where the tail should be.
Vashon Heights’ News – The Seattle Times recently carried a story of the purchase of a beautiful home in Seattle by Capt. and Mrs. Ernest Moy.

March 30, 1933

Island Cemeteries Being Beautified – A crew of ten men are at work putting the Vashon cemetery into perfect condition. There has never been sufficient funds in the association to do this work, but under the program of welfare work this is being done as a community project. When the present plans are carried out the cemetery will be in accordance with what had always been planned, but never accomplished. The same plan will be carried out in improving the Maury cemetery.
Radio Service For Island – On last Thursday H.M. Wicen and R. B. Dickinson visited the Island making final arrangements for a radio service for the Island. After a two months’ service of this nature on Bainbridge Island the Olympic Radio and Television Company which these men represent decided to try a similar service here on Vashon. It has met with fine responses on Bainbridge. Mr. Dickinson, who is vice-president of the Seattle Radio Service Society, will visit the Island every Thursday. Word can be left at your neighborhood grocer by those who wish Mr. Dickinson to look over their radio. The work will be done in the home whenever possible, but if it is necessary to take the radio out of the home another will be left in its place.
Dist. 21 Pass Resolution On Employment Of Teachers – The following resolution passed at the last meeting of District 211, Burton-Southern Heights, was unanimous, and was signed by all three members of the board, Phil Green, chairman, Peter Smith, clerk and Bert Lewis. “Owing to the fact that in common with other trades and profession there is wide spread unemployment among teachers, we will employ only teachers who are the sole support of themselves and family.”
Island Youngsters Get Shoes – Mrs. F.J. Shattuck, as local representative of the Red Cross, is not like the old woman in the shoe for even though she has a lot of children to look after she does know what to do. In characteristically thorough manner she is seeing to it that every youngster whose parents are unable to provide for their needs is going to school with shoes fit to wear, and has spent days visiting homes and measuring young feet that would otherwise not be properly shod.
Burton News Items – The county road, or street, running east and southeast to Assembly Point in Burton, has been graded, widened, and graveled, giving work to a number of unemployed, and making a public driveway that will be much in use, especially during the summer season.
High School Notes – Plans for the senior’s graduation in May are materializing now. The valedictorian, Lewis Schmidt, and the salutatorian, Donald Dunbar, were announced at the last student body meeting. Eleanor Beall and Elsie Huston were very close upon Don’s heels. During his four years Don has made 142 points while Eleanor made 138 and Elsie 136. Since the idea of caps and gowns has been discarded the girls have decided on pastel shades for their dresses.
High School Notes – Have you heard of the new Hi-Ho club? A group of high school girls have lately organized this club for the purpose of hiking. At present, there are about eighteen girls. The dues are only fifteen cents and all girls interested in hiking are urges to join. The officers of the club are as follows: Miss Stewart, advisor; Gwen Reese, captain; and Eleanor Larson, scribe. Hikes have already been taken to various parts of the Island by the girls and they all seem to have had a most enjoyable time.
High School Notes – The royal sport of the diamond, commonly called baseball, is suspended for this year. In a student body meeting last Wednesday the problem of having baseball was argued pro and con. The arguments against baseball are very pertinent this year. There was not enough money set out for baseball and the student body didn’t want to put out any more as it is planning to be out of debt by the end of this year. Probably an intramural league will be organized to play softball.

April 1933
April 6, 1933

Reunion of Former Burton Hi Students – All who were present at Kingsbury Lodge, April 1st, at the reunion of the old Burton high school crowd of 1905 to ’12 or thereabouts, pronounced it a great success. Twenty-two of the “Old Guard” were there, trailing husbands, wives, and shall we say sweethearts? Perhaps the last is superfluous, there being only one unmarried person in the crowd, and she being beyond the age of sweethearts! With all due respect to the husbands (and wives) who throughout other years may be heads of the households, we are giving the names of those present according to their former names for identification purposes. Those from off the Island were: Ella Chamberlin Zaloudek and husband; “Con” Chamberlin, and wife; Hazel Boyington Hitchcock and husband; Ray Graham and wife; Eva Graham Whipple and husband; Kingsley B. Peasley and wife; “Jack” Reed and wife; Singnie Carlson Erickson; Estella McDonald Stetson and husband; Doris VanHouse Davies; Else Hubert Hobert and small son; May Grover Lovegren. Those from the Island were: Frank Robertson and wife; Bert Stanley and wife; Fannie Kingsbury Davis and husband; Elmer and Cora Turner Stone; Kenneth and Selma Nelson VanHouse; Laurel Stone Thompson; Jeannette Fenton Poultney and husband; Marjorie R. Stanley and no husband (but happy); Don Parker, assistant and moral support to George Davis, who supervised the serving of the dinner, and kept order among the waitresses. And need we add further, that everyone had a good time? Without a doubt they did!
Frank Swanson Makes Remarkable Record – Word comes from Pullman that of the 417 names included on the all-college high scholarship roll for the first semester of 1932-33 that of Frank Swanson, son of Mr. and Mrs. S. Swanson, of Vashon, stands the highest. Frank Swanson, junior in civil engineering, achieved the highest individual record for the semester, when he received 20 hours of A grades for 20 hours of work. Frank, a graduate of Vashon high school, made an excellent record before going to Pullman. Despite the fact that he is earning his own way through college he has kept up his hours of work with fine grades. Last year Frank cut short his work at Pullman in order to go to Alaska for the season. It was in recognition of his past record that he was permitted to leave before the close of school. He is planning on doing the same thing this year in order to earn enough to carry him through his senior year of engineering.
Showalter Bill Quite Complicated – Feeling that Senate Bill No 80, more familiarly known as the Showalter bill, is of interest to every school patron, we are printing it in its present form in entirety. We were requested to give a digest of these new provisions of the school law enacted during the last legislature, but after reading them over we decided it would be safer to allow our readers interested in the changes to read them themselves, then do their own digesting.
Mrs. Theo Mauk Makes Division Of Property – Older residents of the Island will be particularly interested in the division of the Mauk estate at Burton. Mrs. Theo Mauk, who is in poor health, has made a division of her property among her three children, who would have inherited it at her death. In this division Mrs. Ida Avery received the beach home, Mr. Geo. Mauk the Amos Cummings place and Mrs. Geo. Hofmeister the hotel property. Mrs. Hofmeister will begin at once to improve the hotel property by repainting it, fixing up the grounds and remodeling it into rooms and apartments. In the new condition it will be a credit to Burton. In the conditions of the division of her estate Mrs. Mauk will make her home for the rest of her life with Mrs. Hofmeister.
Committee Requests Plants and Seeds – On Tuesday evening a meeting of the highway beautification committee of the Commercial Club met at the home of Royce Wise. The triangle at the junction of the highway and the old Cedarhurst road is now ready for planting. It was decided by the committee to make an appeal through the News-Record to all Island flower growers to donate any surplus they may have of dahlia tubers, marigold plants, or any other plants or seeds which would be suitable to plant in this triangle or elsewhere along the highway. These plants or seeds may be left at the Vashon Hardware store, or will be picked up if Dr. Bennett or Royce Wise are notified.
On Sunday there will be a general planting along the highway of perennial sweet peas, California poppies and godetia. Those desiring to take part in this planting can obtain seed from the committee, of which Royce Wise is chairman. The Vashon Heights workers are planning to plant the hillside fronting the dock with godetia and California poppies, so that before the end of the summer it will be a mass of blooms. It is planned to plant perennial sweet peas around all of the old stumps along the highway. Since there is not the means to remove them it is thought that to cover them with blooms is the next best thing. The committee solicits the assistance of everyone interested in this worthy project. They have already accomplished a surprising amount of work with the help of various Island organizations, and expect to do much more before the spring has become too far advanced for the work.
House Catches Fire From Blowtorch – The Coffin home, east of Vashon, was fortunately saved from fire Sunday afternoon which caught from a blowtorch being used to remove old paint from the outside of the dwelling. Fortunately it was extinguished before much damage was done, which consisted only of the siding between two joists being badly damaged. The flames were seen by neighbors and an alarm phoned to Vashon. Before the fire truck could get to the scene of action, however, the fire was out.
A Welcome Attraction At Vashon Theatre – For those who would rather laugh than cry at the movies – and who of us wouldn’t? – Joe E. Brown at the Vashon Theatre this week will prove a welcome attraction, in “You Said A Mouthful.” One feature that has proved especially interesting to audiences elsewhere is the fact that the director has followed the plan used in the “Strange Interlude” and given voice to the thoughts of the actors as well as their actual words.

April 13, 1933

Heber Ward Acts As Own Attorney For Defense – Again the perennial litigation between Richard Gowen and a resident of Ellisport has made its appearance in King County courts, despite the fact that Gowen has been enjoined from bringing further suit on the subject of ownership of the streets of Ellisport. Since the time he was thus enjoined he has been successful in getting several cases into court. The latest case, which has been on the calendar for months, was finally brought to trial in Judge Roscoe Smith’s court last Thursday. Gowen brought suit against Heber Ward for $600 for alleged removal of wood from the streets of Ellisport. Ward acted as his own attorney in the case, and presented his arguments so well that Judge Smith dismissed the case with costs of suit charged against Gowen.
Supper Furnishes Funds for Lights – A novel meeting of the Burton Improvement Club was held Thursday evening, April 6th, in the Masonic Hall. Members of the club served hot oyster stew, apple pie and coffee. The oysters were donated by the Padilla Point Packing Company through the efforts of Phil Green. The pies were made by the Newport ladies. The use of the Masonic Hall was donated by the Island Masonic order. Proceeds amounted to $23.00 which will be applied to the street lighting fund.
Lodge To Hold Open House – In order that the members of the Island’s various clubs and other women’s organizations may have an opportunity of seeing the changes which have transformed the old Kingsbury home into one of the most charming lodges on Puget Sound, all Island women interested in any church, fraternal, study or civic club work are invited to a tea on Saturday, April 15th. This will be a happy occasion for the meeting together of women interested in a common subject, the growth and improvement of the Island. Every home loving woman will be delighted with the arrangements of the Lodge, in its beautiful setting of madrona trees, overlooking Quartermaster Harbor.
Local Bakery Under New Management – Last week a deal was completed whereby the Vashon Island Bakery was purchased by Louis Stockmeyer, of Cle Elum. A native of Germany he was taught the business of delicatessen cookery in youth, and upon coming to this country found himself well adapted for kindred work. Mr. Stockmeyer has had extensive experience in large hotels in Miami, and in New York. He has worked in half of the states of the Union, but it was not until he found Vashon Island that he has owned his own. Homer Brehm, the young man assisting Mr. Stockmeyer states that he was born and reared in a bakery, and his knowledge of the business indicated would lead one to believe that he told the truth.
Jack Moy Moves Goldfish Stock To Mainland – Much of the goldfish stock has been moved and Jack E. Moy is getting established on his own place on the mainland, located 10 miles from Renton on the Maple Valley highway. The former owner engaged in trout raising and the place is already equipped with a number of tanks ready for the stock taken from here. Much of the equipment at Twickenham Estate is now being moved to the new place. The pools here will be used for surplus stock for the present. Fish from the Twickenham Water Gardens are in demand over a broad field; as Mr. Moy is one of the largest importers in the West, able to supply varieties that smaller importers cannot.
High School Notes – Boat Club Makes Plans – The first legal meeting of the Vashon Island Boat Club was held on Monday, with Commodore Phil Green presiding. Plans are rapidly being completed for a cruise, sometime during the next six weeks. According to reports, the club is attracting attention elsewhere on the Island and several non-high school boys have expressed a desire to become members. It was decided to allow membership to these persons.
Tahlequah News Items – With the advent of spring weather, construction on a new beach roadway from the C.G. Huhn residence, across the Fred Pohl property to Chris Rasmussen’s was begun Sunday by Tahlequahites. The entire road across the Pohl property was swept away during winter storms, and residents and visitors have been forced to use the county highway or walk the beach when the tide permitted. The new roadway will be an elevated and permanent one. It will be a district asset to Tahlequah, and will doubtless be welcomed by visitors.
Tahlequah News Items – Every year about this time many people enjoy taking in the beauty of the Pohl’s field for it is a mass of beautiful daffodils.

April 20, 1933

Vashon Visited By Severe Fire – On Monday morning the Island was visited by the most destructive fire in its history. As its result about half of Vashon was destroyed and half of the business concerns left without places to carry on. Apparently the fire originated in the back of the Transportation Company’s garage and had gained such headway that when discovered by Mrs. Middling at 3:20 it had already eaten through the wall of the building. She wakened the boys and her husband and they were forced to flee in their night clothes, snatching a few garments which they donned in the street. The Leslie family, asleep in the rear of the downstairs of the building, had just as little warning. Both families lost everything, as did Geo. Wiley, owner of the pool hall, and A. Reifschneider, owner of the shoe shop in the same building. Called by Russel Middling, John Metzenberg rushed at once for the fire truck. Aroused by the noise of its starting T.N. Thompson and C.J. Denny were on the scene and succeeded in doing good work until help began to arrive. The Met-Cro garage was burning and the roof collapsed as the front door was open. Only a bicycle and a few tires were saved. Efforts were then concentrated on the theatre building and while the water was being poured on it the upper end of England & Petersen’s burst into flames from the intense heat of the Middling block. As the power lines were cut off the pressure from the North End system was cut off and the water could not be thrown on the top of the England & Petersen roof. With its large stock of lumber, hay and feed this produced the hottest fire of all and in a few minutes the Mace Garage and the Beall-Hansen buildings were afire. Spendid work was done by volunteers in saving much of the contents of the Sweet Shop and the Daily Needs Market. For a time it seemed inevitable that the whole village would go, but with the dynamiting of the carpenter shop occupied by Guy Clark, and the sturdy cement wall of the Deppman Building on the other side of the street the fire was stopped. The stock of Tim’s Place was entirely moved out by dozens of workers. As his insurance had expired a few weeks ago Tim was taking no chances. The fire was a frightful calamity, but the fact that there was no loss of life makes a bright side. Everybody is showing a fine spirit of optimism and with the possible exception of the Leslie family all expect to continue business as usual as soon as locations can be provided. Within an hour after the fire had begun to subside England & Petersen were moving into the Bodle Berry shed, the Daily Needs was locating in the Garvin building and the Sweet Shop had its sign out at the bakery. England & Petersen will begin rebuilding as soon as the fire is out on their lots. Their loss, which amounted to more than $15,000, was well covered by insurance. While the owners of the Beall-Hansen building have not announced their plans it is confidently hoped that their faith in Vashon will be great enough to make them feel justified in rebuilding. L.C. Beall, owner of the Met-Cro building has made no plans. Bob Middling is still undetermined as to what he will do.
With the destruction of two of the Transportation Company’s buses Monday morning the transportation of the pupils of District 176 has been reduced to a minimum. It is altogether likely that only the pupils living more than two miles will be furnished with transportation and that a slight change in school hours will be made.
It is impossible to adequately express the appreciation of the citizens of Vashon for the service rendered by the crew of the Puget Sound Power & Light Company at Monday morning’s fire. The men were everywhere, cutting wires, climbing poles through the heat and smoke. The amount of power which the truck possesses was a surprise to everyone. When the Clark building was dynamited it was not demolished, but was moved from its foundation so that cables were fastened to it and the service wagon pulled it away from the other buildings. By 8:30 a.m. a line had been run in from one farther west and as patrons arrived home from the fire they were able to cook breakfast. A full crew has been working, night and day, on the phone lines, and although the service is not entirely restored temporary arrangements have been made that are answering the purpose.
This Is The Spirit – Announcement was made this morning that plans were completed and work would begin at once on the new concrete building with which England & Petersen will replace the one destroyed in Monday morning’s fire. Surely the spirit of optimism and progress which this firm is displaying should be an inspiration to the whole community. By nine o’clock Monday morning the entire organization was at work. By noon the girls were candling eggs, their only regret being the work that had been wasted on the 165 crates that had been destroyed and which were still frying in the fire.
Truck Crushes Life From Man – Run over by a backing wood truck from which he had fallen, J.R. McCloskey, about forty, was fatally injured near Lisabeula last Friday. He was taken to Harborview Hospital, and died shortly after he was admitted at 8:30 p.m. According to Capt. Owen McGill of the state highway patrol, who investigated the tragedy, McCloskey was riding on the back of a truck driven by Elmer Jacobson. Both men were employees of August Wax, who owns a large chicken ranch 1-2 mile south of Lisabeula.
Tim’s Place Sold To Oroville Man – Vashon, it seems, believes in having its surprises in groups. The village was still all aquiver from the effects of the fire when it received another blow, the announcement by W.D. Clark that he had sold his business and that after this week he would be seeking fairer scenes. He is gloating over the hours he will be able to spend over on the golf course. His many friends and associates are wondering what they will do for a place to unload their many woes and to receive their daily rating. “It just won’t seem like Vashon without Tim” is the consensus of opinion. The purchaser of Tim’s Place is M.B. Sexson, of Oroville. Both Mr. Sexson and his wife are registered pharmacists and own a flourishing business. Being a chronic sufferer from hay fever Mr. Sexson has had to seek a new location, and feels sure that he will be cured here. He has several deals pending for the disposal of his own business and property. Mrs. Sexson will remain in Oroville until their business there is settled, while her husband will take charge of the Vashon store next week. Mr. Clark’s plans for the future are indefinite, but we feel confident that whatever he does he will remain right here among us. Almost a half-century of residence makes a chronic Islander of one.
Vashon Broadcast Friday – Norman Edson will appear over station KOMO at 1 o’clock Friday, October 21st with a travelogue of Vashon Island. Realizing that many tourists do not know how accessible the Island is, Mr. Edson will open his story by describing the trip from the Canadian National dock. We have the assurance that the program will not only be entertaining and instructive but by means of it the Island will receive some valuable publicity.
Editorial – Vashon today is a pitiful sight. It is doubly pitiful to those of us who love the little village. Those of us who have watched it grow from a straggling crossroads settlement to a trim modern little town possessed a common, proprietary interest that has made us tremendously proud of Vashon. It is that pride which inspired the Vashon Business Men’s Club to work for the pavement, for the street lights, for the fire fighting equipment which saved so much from the conflagration which at times looked like certain destruction. We even admit that we are selfish in our pride. We’ve had a fire that would take the spirit out of any community. But according to the city newspapers and radio publicity in all parts of the nation we are refusing to let the disaster keep us down. Possibly some of the buildings will not be rebuilt this summer. But that is no reason why we have to go through an entire season looking as though we had had a fire. Our paved street is still here, as are our lights, water system, a part of our newest and prettiest buildings. What we need now is a big housecleaning. And if we can’t get buildings on those vacant lots right away we can get busy and get them cleaned up. We have a brand new dump for the refuge which cannot be salvaged. Someone would lend us a lot out of sight of the main street upon which the useable materials could be parked. With a few loads of dirt dumped on the vacant lots, and a little water now and then we could at least grow California poppies and they’d look cheerful anyway. Here’s a real job for the Vashon Island Business Men’s Club and Tim has a lot of spare time to boss the job.
Although no definite plans, with the exception of England & Petersen, have been made to rebuild the business places lost in Monday morning’s fire, it is a foregone conclusion that the structures destroyed will be replaced. Those who are carrying on temporarily will have to have adequate permanent locations. This work should be done by Island men and all things being equal every cent spent should benefit Island people and business. We are informed that England & Petersen have given their contract locally. This information was gleaned from a city contractor who felt that all comers should have been given a chance. If this same spirit of faith, progress and community loyalty is displayed right down the line we’ll emerge with a bigger and better Vashon.
High School Notes – A beautiful sidewalk with a unique sundial to give it a finishing touch is to be presented to the school by the senior class. This cement walk will extend from the main entrance of the building to the road. The sundial will be midway between the school and the road. The work is to be started as soon as the materials are procured. The committees selected are as follows: Construction committee: Mr. Ackley, Bob K. Thompson, Ferguson Beall, Donald Canfield, Bob Harmeling, Kenneth Beall, Alex Kelley, and Palgrave Coates; Ordering material: Donald Dunbar and Lewis Schmidt.
The streets of Vashon have been lined with cars since our fire. With all of the newspaper and radio publicity we have received, some good thing should come out of it, and the salesmen, adjusters, and what not at least know that we had a fire.
Representatives of the American Red Cross were on the Island Wednesday to find if there was any assistance they could render.
Burton News Items - The shocking news of the Vashon fire reached Burton early Monday morning. Much sympathy is felt for those who lost their all. Offerings of temporary homes in Burton for those burned out were freely given and may be accepted, though all is confusion at this writing.
Burton News Items – Last week the Island Community church through its trustees, sold to Joe Green, Lots 3 and 4, Block 3, Newport Beach. We can vision a couple of years ahead when Joe will have the lots all cleared, a nice little bungalow built, and – well, you know the rest!
Burton News Items – Just for fun, we counted up, in last week’s News-Record the number of clubs and associations that met and are to meet from April 10 to 20, on the Island – thirteen, mostly all clubs, in ten days! Surely all these organizations help to knit a closer relationship on the Island and is for mutual benefit to all concerned.
Mea Culpa – The editor takes the responsibility for the estimate of damage by fire quoted in the city papers. Possibly we used a little poetic license, but on Monday morning had we said the damage was half a million we could have found a lot of people who would have agreed with us.

April 27, 1933

C.G. Kimmel Making Improvements On Store – Since rebuilding and remodeling where he will install equipment and will enlarge his meat department. Mr. Kimmel is putting into practice a lot of ideas collected on his recent trip south. Clever methods of displaying groceries, a new line of standard canned goods selling at 5 cents, combination articles at very low prices, individual grouping of canned and package goods are just a few of the ways in which the store is being improved in keeping with modern ideas. All signs point to an enlarged tourist business this season, and Mr. Kimmel is getting ready in good time.
Met-Cro Garage Is Being Replaced – Ground was broken and work begun Wednesday on the new Met-Cro Garage to replace the one destroyed by fire last week. The new location is in the North end of the village, between the Weiss residence and the Bacchus Lumber Company on the lot recently purchased from Willis Blekkink. The buildings will be in two units. On the front of the 100 x 120 lot will be a super service station. This will consist of a storeroom equipped with a full line of tires, batteries, parts and accessories and a large arcade over the gas pumps. Across the rear will be built the shop with all of the latest type of equipment. In the space between the two buildings will be a driveway, grease lift, etc. The buildings are to be attractively finished in stucco, concrete floors, modern in every respect, and will be a real addition to the village. Work was well underway on Wednesday. The building will be done by day labor under the supervision of the owners, H.C. Cronander and John Metzenberg. Everything that is possible will be done with Island labor they announced.
Mace Garage Being Repaired – Rebuilding and repairs are in the air at Vashon and work is going merrily on, and in a few months time our disastrous fire of last week will be a matter of history. Ed Mace has replaced the windows in his garage, the rear end of the building is being repaired and in a few days, the work of replacing the roof will begin. Mr. Mace states that the gas pump is again ready for business and the extensive repairs necessary have been made.
England & Petersen Start New Building – Excavating for the new England & Petersen plant was started Tuesday, with the remains of the former building still burning. The new plant, which will be furnished with stucco, on a four foot concrete foundation, will consist of two buildings. One building 50 x 120 feet will house the offices and feed and egg departments. In the other building, the size of which will be 30 x 125 feet, the lumber and fuel will be stored. England & Petersen now own the frontage from the former Sweet Shop to Mace’s garage, 125 feet. The two buildings will be on either end of the lots with a driveway, loading platforms, etc., in between. The contract has been let to John Jensen, who will follow his policy of employing Island men to do the work. The excellent set of books kept by Mrs. Anna McCrary was the basis on which the firm received an early and satisfactory settlement from the company in which they were insured. This week Mrs. McCrary received a personal letter from the adjuster complimenting her and stating that it was an easy matter with records kept like hers to make adjustments. The fact that England & Petersen are building a bigger and better plant is in itself a testimony of their faith in the future of Vashon Island.
Riefschnider Makes New Start – Refusing to let even a fire keep a good man down, A. Riefschnider, our expert shoe repairman, left last Wednesday for Seattle, where he bought equipment to replace what had been destroyed in Monday morning’s fire. It was a case of starting from the ground up, as everything in Mr. Riefschnider’s shop was totally destroyed. In order to start out on a completely new basis Mr. Riefschnider also took unto himself a wife. His marriage to Mrs. Anna Walton occurred on Wednesday of last week. Mrs. Riefschnider is still in Seattle, but will soon come to the Island, where she and her husband will occupy the home south of Vashon. Mr. Riefschnider has opened a shop in the building formerly occupied by Mr. Treen, in the rear of the Garvin building. His new machinery came out on Monday of this week, the electrical work was done on Tuesday and on Wednesday he was ready to begin work. It is remarkable that human beings can take the jolts as philosophically as have these business people of Vashon, and Mr. Riefschnider’s spirit in starting anew is typical of the spirit that predominates the entire village. He has the good wished of the community for happiness in his marriage and success in the new business start he has made.
Bakery Shop Being Moved – The Island Bakery is being moved, not to another building, but five feet north. An inside stairway, to the living quarters above has been built, the old stairway will be torn away and the building moved over abutting the Kimmel building. John Jensen is doing the work. This will leave T.N.Thompson, the owner, a nice building lot on the south of the bakery.
Meeting Held To Discuss Formation of New County – On last Friday evening a group of Island citizens, including Chas. England, Dr. J.G. Bennett, W.D. Garvin, Chas. VanOlinda, F.J. Shattuck and Agnes L. Smock attended a mass meeting at Renton. This meeting was called for the purpose of discussing the formation of a new county to include practically all of the rural section of King, outside of Seattle. On account of the transportation problem and the county ownership of ferries Vashon and Mercer Islands have not been included in tentative boundaries. The proposed territory of the new county would include the northern end of Pierce County, between Sumner and Puyallup in addition to a large section of King. No definite campaign has been outlined, and many present apparently felt that it would be a number of years before the plan is carried out, if ever. Certain of the political friends of the Island were anxious to include Vashon in the proposed territory, but this is a matter which must eventually be settled by Island residents.

May 1933
May 4, 1933

Vashon Drug Store Will Be Remodeled – W.B. Sexton, new owner of the drug store operated by W.D. Clark for the past six years, arrived on Monday.
Plans For Protective League Under Discussion – Tentative plans are being made for a Vashon Island Farmers’ Game Protective League. While no definite program has been outlined the operation of the plan under consideration would provide for hunting restrictions only within 100 yards of a hen house or residence. A fee of 25 cents for pheasants and 10 cents for quail would be charged the hunter, who would be held responsible for any damage done. Questions arising would be settled by an Island game protector to be chosen by the League. The Sportsman’s Association aims to be honest and fair, and to promote real sportsmanship. The members realize that the poor sportsmanship of one individual can paint the whole fraternity with a poor reputation. They feel also that a lot of infractions are blamable to local men and boys, as well as hunters from off of the Island and the entire membership is working toward Island wide cooperation. An effort will be made to have hunters from the mainland register when they arrive and check out before getting on the ferry. By cooperation on the part of local and foreign sportsmen the time may come when the Island farmers will feel it is no longer necessary to post their farms, and it would be a boost for the Island for sportsmen to know that there was a place in this part of the state where they would find no “No Hunting” signs. – E.R. NePage, President.
Patrons Of District 211 Hold Meeting – At a meeting held in the Burton grammar school last Monday night patrons of District 211 heard a report of a Mr. Martin from the State Attorney’s office at Olympia report on the condition of building now occupied and the former building in the village. Both were pronounced fit for occupancy. Mr. Martin also talked on the question of school finances, giving no additional encouragement. There was a general discussion of the advisability of returning the school to the old building next year and a vote was taken with twenty in favor of moving and 26 in favor of remaining in the present building. The matter will be left up to the discretion of the board.
Vashon Is Being Rapidly Rebuilt – We venture to say there isn’t a place in the state of Washington where a greater proportionate amount of building is in progress than right here in Vashon. Like the proverbial ill wind the fire of April 17th has put at least twenty men to work, and more will be at work before the end of the week. The sound of cement mixers can be heard from both directions as concrete is being poured for the foundation of both England & Petersen and the Met-Cro Garage. Both buildings will be stucco on concrete foundations. There will be two separate buildings built by each of these firms, housing different departments of their business. John Jensen has the contract for England & Petersen’s, while the building of the garage and service station is being superintended by the owners, H.C. Cronander and John Metzenberg. F.J. Shattuck is in charge of the cement work at the Met-Cro. John Jensen has the contract to rebuild the Beall-Hansen building, which will be the same size as the one destroyed, divided into two storerooms. This building will be of frame construction with a stucco finish. It is rumored that the Middling building will be replaced with a two-story stucco structure, with apartments over the storeroom on the ground floor. Rumor also has it that as soon as the bakery building is moved work will be started on a small building to the south, which will be occupied by the poolroom of Geo. Willey. The construction of this building has not been announced. The manner in which Vashon is recovering from a fire that would spell ruin to many communities is remarkable. Two weeks ago it was prophesied that it would be years before any amount of construction would be done and already bigger and finer buildings are replacing those destroyed.
Vashon Will Adopt Daylight Saving Time – It isn’t a case of wanting, but a case of having to adopt daylight savings plan, so the merchants argued. A canvas of the business houses at Vashon showed that all were agreed on moving the clocks up an hour next Sunday. No decision in regard to the schools has yet been made. Those in authority will make the announcement to the pupils on Friday. However, since the ferry schedule changes with the Seattle plan it is altogether likely that a change in the school time will also have to be made on account of transportation. Tacoma is contemplating adoption of the daylight saving plan, but until then those who have to patronize ferries at the north and south ends of the Island will have to get out pencil and paper before taking a boat.
Why Not Follow Suit? – A concerted movement is being made by city sportsmen’s organizations to destroy the crow, that enemy of other forms of bird life and fruits. Over the weekend many sportsmen will take part in a hunt and the pair turning in the greatest number of crow’s feet will be declared champions. It has been long recognized that the crow is a real enemy of other bird life, destroying their eggs and young, and constituting a real menace to their increase. There are a number of rookeries on the Island and it would not be difficult for the Island gunners for the extermination of the crow in Western Washington.
High School Notes – Seniors Caught Working – Well, it’s finished now. The senior boys, under the supervision of Mr. Shattuck have just completed a cement sidewalk from the front door of the school to the road. The boys have worked hard to make this walk and have learned a great deal about cement work while doing it. The walk is 126 feet long, six feet wide and six inches deep. At the end toward the school is a plate with the roll of the senior class written on it. This walk greatly improves the looks of the school and we are sure that posterity will always thank the class of 1933 for replacing the old boards with the new concrete walk.
The Geo. Leslie family spent the weekend on the Island, guests of the W. Zimmerman family. Their plans are as yet very indefinite, but there is a possibility that they will again reopen the restaurant as soon as the Middling building is rebuilt.
Purchases Poultry Farm – Mrs. Rose Gorsuch reports the sale of the Jones place to Roger Bargelt. Roger is learning the poultry business from Will Smith and is already starting his plant on this new property. He will have the assistance of his parents.

May 11, 1933

Building Goes Merrily On – The forms for the foundation of the Beall-Hansen building are practically completed and the concrete for the foundation will be poured soon. The new building is to be divided into two storerooms. Workmen are also busy on an addition to the part of the VanOlinda building occupied by the drug store. Partitions will later be torn out, the building redecorated, and with a new arrangement of fountain and cases we will have as up-to-date a drug store as many small cities can boast. Down at the Met-Cro things are moving right along, the service station is receiving the finishing coat of stucco and the roof is being put on the large garage building. When it is completed it is going to be just about the classiest looking establishment in this part of the country. Which inspires us to tell the world, “Watch Vashon Grow.”
North End Resident Injured On Highway – K. Kleveland, a resident of the North End, was seriously injured on the highway Sunday morning in a peculiar accident. Mr. Kleveland, who is very deaf, was leaving his home to walk to the Kimmel home at Cedarhurst. He was carrying several long bars over his shoulder. As B.D. Mukai, driving a Ford roadster, approached from the south and made the turn at the K.J. Fjeld corner he saw Kleveland stepping toward the center of the pavement from his own path. Mr. Mukai did not know Kleveland and had no way of knowing that he could not hear the horn which he sounded several times. Driving over to the left side of the pavement he attempted to pass Kleveland who turned in such a manner that the end of one of the bars struck the fin of the windshield, throwing the man to the pavement. The falling bars and the blow of striking the pavement resulted in serious head injuries, in addition to a broken left arm. With the help of passersby Kleveland was lifted into the Mukai car and taken to the office of Dr. McMurray, who, after an examination advised that he be taken to Harborview. This was done immediately by Mr. Mukai, as Kleveland has no relatives in this country and no friends who could care for him. Late reports give little hope for his recovery. While there were no witnesses who actually saw the accident, drivers who arrived very soon on the scene, pronounced it as one of those unlooked for and unavoidable accidents. Deputy Sheriff Shattuck was called at once but could find no indication of carelessness on the part of Mr. Mukai.
Fish And Pheasant Eggs For Island – Carl Wick received word this week that within the next ten days the Island would receive 10,000 small eastern brook trout, fries, 2 ½ inches in length, which will be planted in creeks in different localities. These fish will be brought from the Tokul hatchery at North Bend by a state protector, who with representatives of the Sportsmen’s Association will plant them. Mr. Wick has also been advised by the state game department that ring-neck pheasant eggs will also be furnished. These will be hatched and reared by hens and turned loose when six weeks old.
Ellisport Home Destroyed by Fire – Fire, which broke out from a defective flu early Sunday morning, completely destroyed the Romie Fuller home at Ellisport, and a barn on adjoining property. The La Chappelle home across the street was saved by the quick work of volunteer firemen. Mr. Fuller was alone in the house, his wife away visiting relatives. He was asleep when wakened by the noise of the flames and was able to escape with only a few personal belongings. The fire had gained such headway when discovered that in a short time the house and contents was entirely destroyed, leaving the young owners minus the cozy home they have occupied since their marriage. The sympathy of the entire community is extended to Mr. and Mrs. Fuller, who have not even the consolation of insurance, as their home was uninsured.
Geo. Willey Not To Resume Pool Hall – Feeling that Vashon is not large enough for two pool halls, Geo. Willey announced this week that he would not resume business here and expects to leave soon for Seattle.
Island People Get Fleeced by Stranger – Much indignation was aroused during the past week over the fleecing of a number of our Island citizens, who fell victim to a racket that has been worked in various localities, but to our knowledge never before tried here on the Island. Recently books of tickets and boxes were placed in several of the grocery stores. The purpose of them was rather vague, and even owners of the stores could give no information about the prize to be drawn. A few days later the same party who placed the tickets and boxes collected them, with the signatures of a number of Island people. The next day various people who had signed cards were called upon by a burly individual who informed them that they had won an equity in a lot. The exact location was not given, but vaguely described as 15 miles from Bremerton. Some were told that the value of the lot was $750, others various sums up to $1500. Supposedly a balance of $150 was due and a first payment of $30 was to be made. The lucky winners were informed that if they cared to do so they could inspect the lot if they accepted. The initial payment was to help defray the expense of the trip to the resort, with which they were to receive with their lot a vacation, rent free for a week each summer, a membership in a country club, yet to be built, etc., etc. Some were told that if they did not care for the lot it could be turned in for a car, jewelry, or what not, commission free. Sums ranging from $5 to $30 were collected, and a sale contract given which stated specifically that “nothing would be refunded” despite the fact that the salesman stated otherwise. One woman still has her $30 simply because the bank was closed and a local merchant became suspicious because the salesman insisted on having the cash before he left the Island. When he returned to her home to get the cash she too became suspicious and insisted on the return of her check. The pitiful part about the whole matter is that as far as can be detected the salesman and the company he represented kept within the letter of the law. Had the victims carefully read the contract they might have become suspicious, since it contradicted some of the verbal statements of the salesman. There really is such a development as he described, located deep in the woods, in which the lake, (as he described a little mud puddle) is situated. The lots are not described by metes and bounds. As the victims will probably not finish paying for the lots, they will go by default and the down payment can be charged up to profit and loss.
Local Bakery Installs Bread-Slicing Machine – The growing popularity with which the products of the Island Bakery is meeting has influenced the management in installing a bread-slicing machine. Sliced white and whole wheat bread is now being marketed at the same price as the whole loaf. Rodda’s Price-Rite store at Center has discontinued all other bakery products and is now featuring only the goods of the Island Bakery.
Burton News Items – The Middling family wish to express their sincere gratitude for the liberal donations received last week from friends who took this way of expressing their sympathy in the loss of their home and contents in the recent Vashon fire. It takes a small town to unite in times of trouble – As Mr. Middling said, “This could not have been done in the city.” – where there are so many individual cases that never come to light.
Burton News Items – At the public meeting held last week at the grammar school to decide if the schools of the consolidated districts, Burton and Southern Heights should move back to the old grammar school building as a matter of economy. It was decided by a few votes in majority to remain at the building now being used.
Large Number See Show – Surprisingly large houses saw the Friday, Saturday and Sunday showing of “State Fair” at the Vashon Theatre last weekend. It was an unusually well staged picture, subtle enough for the youngsters, obvious enough for their elders, and possessing a plot, of sorts. Each week is seeing more of the Island residents in attendance at the theatre. Past management failed by promising too much. The present management is succeeding because promises have been superseded by performance. In the past lack of even a semblance of order drove patrons away. Rather than pay good money to be annoyed by the youth of the Island many who really enjoy a good picture stayed at home or went to the city theatres where hoodlumism is not tolerated. The present management made its first promise (silently) that order would be maintained in the Vashon theatre. Bud Campbell has made god that promise, and instead of disorder there is now commendable conduct even on the part of the small boys who previously strove to be as great an annoyance as possible.

May 18, 1933

Large Class Will Enter High School – On Tuesday evening the high school auditorium was well filled with relatives and friends of the boys and girls who this year finish their grammar school work, and who, next year will form the freshman class of our high school. Members of the 8th grade are: Maury-Center – Glen Bartholomew, Olivia Frombach, Bertha and Nellie Hayes, Thos. Meyer and Howard Williams. Center – Naomi Bethea, Betty and Donna Lee, Charles Livers, Rosalie Morford, Glen Miyoshi, Ralph Tucker and Maxine Therkelsen. Vashon – Donald Bacchus, Robert Beall, Douglas Calloway, Alice Coffin, Walter Dunbar, Patty Doebbler, Marie Halvorsen, Sherburne Heath, Juan Javonilla, Charles Kimmel, Robert Marshall, Robert McCleod, Louis Ortiz, William Robinson, Jean Slagle, Clyde Smith, Lois Rae Yates and Horuko Yoshida. Lisabeula – Irene Bengston, Mildred Hofmeister, Marion Maloney, Lorraine Shattuck, Phyllis Shattuck, Vernon Shattuck, Florence Sveinson and John Quam. Dockton – Jennie Bugunovich, Norma Hake, Mercedes Fidell, Bartol Ljubich and Henry Nass. Cove – Evelyn Edwards, Jeanne Hendricksen, Laincha Hotchkins, Reuben Severson, Lee Towne and Eleanor Wellen. Burton – William Dahl, Jack Gibbons, Arthur Herstad, Joseph Millikan, James Pelham, Warren VanBuskirk and Eleanor Willison.
Plane Makes Forced Landing On Island – While flying to Aberdeen to greet Old Ironsides, Jack Peterson, a former Island boy, piloting a cabin plane made a forced landing in the Beall field west of the Goodwill Farm. Peterson had as passengers his mother and father. It was rather a coincidence that on the occasion of his first forced landing he should have chosen a spot so near his former home on the West Side. While over the West Pass the engine stalled, a broken cylinder causing the trouble. Peterson had noted the Beall field as he passed over it and had no trouble gliding back and making a perfect landing. Phoning to Seattle it was only a matter of a short time until a small plane had landed with new parts for the engine. The first plane landed about the time school was being dismissed and practically all of the youngsters arrived home late, as they naturally remained on the scene until both planes had gone their way. The pilots and mechanics took particular pains to explain the weighty questions propounded by the youngsters, and all felt that much had been added to their store of knowledge.
Lisabeula 8th Grade Entertained At Dinner – Last Friday evening the spacious home of Mrs. Steinforth was the scene of a delightful dinner party given by the mothers, in honor of the 8th grade graduates of Lisabeula school. Seated at the table were Prof. and Mrs. Robertson of the high school, Mr. Maloney, clerk of the school board and the eight graduates, Phyllis Shattuck, Marion Maloney, Lorraine and Vernon (Shattuck) Lipin, John Quam, Mildred Hofmeister, Irene Bengston and Florence Sveinsson.
Graduation Exercises Friday Evening – With the baccalaureate exercises of Sunday evening the class of 1933 began the last week of their activities in the Island schools. The senior class includes: Harold Agren, Ferguson Beall, Kenneth Beall, Dick Brammer, Don Canfield, James Church, Palgrave Coates, David Compton, John Danielson, Don Dunbar, Amos Frombach, Tashio Fijioka, Vernon Greer, Sandy Gorsuch, Bob Harmeling, Vernon Hearst, Julius Jacobson, Alex Kelly, Walter Knudsen, Lewis Schmidt, Robert Snow, Robert E. Thompson, Robert K. Thompson, Ralph Merry, Gertrude Allison, Eleanore Beall, Irene Beard, Sylvia Besonen, Katherine Berry, Cora Mae Coates, Lorna Danielson, Yuri Hoshi, Bertha Huseby, Elsie Huston, Beula Fitzpatrick, Irene Lofquist, Elsie Merry, Katherine Meyer, Eleanor Nelson, Helen Nelson, Florence Radin, Margaret Smith, Margaret Takatsuka, Mable Wilber, Marcella Marr.
Why Not A Landing Field? – It is rather a coincidence that a plane made a successful forced landing on the Island just at a time that there has been considerable discussion as to the necessity of a landing field here. It will probably be a matter of not more than five or ten years until, if we are to remain in the front of things that a landing field will be imperative. In the meantime several pieces of property suitable for this purpose are being divided up and to purchase them later may be too expensive as to be prohibitive. One piece of property is now for sale at a price ridiculously low. It consists of 40 acres and is so level that it will need little expense in getting into proper shape. It is rumored that a group of businessmen are about to investigate the feasibility of obtaining an option on one or more properties. The wisdom of purchasing now when real estate is low would seem apparent, as well as the need for a landing field on the Island. There have been several instances of visiting pilots being disappointed by the lack of a field in which they could land. Our Island is the only Island in Puget Sound with paved highways. Why not the only Island with an adequate landing field?
While cranking her car last Thursday, Mrs. Betty Beard had the misfortune to break her arm.
Fred Hiersch delivered a paper before the members of Pi Mu Epsilon this week, on “A purely mathematical determination of absolute temperature based on the second law of thermodynamics.” This type of work is fundamental to the underlying theory of all heat engines.
Burton News Items – Rev. Thompson of Bremerton is having a memorial hall built at Assembly Point in memory of his son, Robert, who was drowned while attending college at McMinnville, Ore., last winter. Robert had attended several sessions of the B.Y.P.W. and will be missed by the young people as they gather this year for their annual convention.
At the Burton Improvement Club meeting last week when new officers were elected for the coming year, the News-Record stated that Mrs. Alex Smith was elected president. Was that a mistake, Alex, or are we to congratulate you over an event that should have happened years and years ago?
Vashon Pharmacy Being Remodeled – Remodeling of the Vashon Pharmacy is practically completed, the plastering will be finished and the decorating begun before the end of the week. When the work is finished Vashon will have a thoroughly modern drug store. Partitions have been taken out, a room added on the rear of the building, other partitions have been put in, doors added, windows cut, in short the arrangement has been completely changed. The bar will be turned against the back wall of the front room and display cases arranged down each side. The rear room will be utilized for a kitchen. The large booth on the south side has been partitioned off and is now the prescription booth. New lighting fixtures will be installed. Mr. Sexon, the new owner, will bring some of the fixtures from his Oroville store to add to those already in the local store. He has purchased new refrigerating equipment, the motor of which will be outside the building.

May 25, 1933

A New Treasure In Mrs. Roberts’ Garden – A very choice plant, the Dove Tree, was delivered last Saturday to Mrs. J.W. Roberts for her garden. This tree, a gift from Mrs. Charles D. Stimson, of Seattle, has an interesting history, which is quoted herewith from “Aristocrats of the Garden” by the late E.H. Wilson, remembered also for his importation of the Regal lily. The “Davidia Invilucrata”, or Dove Tree, was first discovered by Pere David in 1869 in Western Chine, Ta Wan, and is called the most beautiful and remarkable of all trees.
Met-Cro Garage To Reopen Monday – On next Monday the Met-Cro Garage, owned by H.C. Cronander and John Metzenbert, will open for business in the new building just south of the Bacchus lumber sheds. Just six weeks previous to the day on which they plan to open these two men stood by and watched the business they had built up by six years of hard work go up in flames. Before the week of the fire was past they had purchased a lot and plans were made to begin rebuilding at once. For the past four weeks, through rain and shine, a crew has been working at top speed, and today the new home of the Met-Cro is practically competed. The plant will consist of three separate, detached buildings, two of which are built. At the front of the lot is a combined office and super service station, with a gas pump of latest type, the mechanism of which is so interesting that patrons buy gas just to see it register the gallons and compute the price it will cost. Back of the service station, and across the rear of the lot is a large garage and workshop with working space for eight or nine cars. Another building, with modern restrooms, will be built just to the north. The buildings are of stucco construction and built after unique architectural plans, with lines that are pleasing to the eyes, and which make them an artistic asset to the village.
Local Island Post V.F.W. Inaugurated – Unfortunately conflicting attractions prevented more than a small number of Island people from attending the inauguration of Corp. Alfred Roberts Post, Veterans of Foreign Wars, and the installation of officers, which took place last Saturday evening at the Island Club.

June 1933
June 1, 1933

Picnic Grounds Topic Of C.C. Meeting – On Friday evening the May meeting of the Vashon Island Commercial Club was held at the high school, with a representative attendance. Among the matters of routine business under discussion probably the most interesting was the subject of the Ellisport picnic grounds and sand spit. The former is controlled jointly by the Bank of California and the Burwell estate. The proposal was made last winter that the owners would turn the picnic ground over to the Commercial Club, leasing the property for a period of time for $1 per year. To this end the club was incorporated, only to find that the Bank of California insisted on liability insurance, which would cost $75 per year. This, officers and members of the organization felt, was more than they could carry, in view of the fact that the McClintock heirs had made the same proposition to the club, in order to free themselves of accident liability. The Ellisport picnic ground, as well as the sand spit, is now barred to the public, which has used both for many years. The members of the executive committee, particularly, feel that one, without the other, would be like bread without butter, and are seeking some way out of the dilemma. In the meantime a number of families who have vacationed at Ellisport for a number of years have made plans to go elsewhere upon learning that the sand spit was not available. President Bennett has appealed to the various Island organizations for help in solving this all-Island problem, and will meet with their presidents at the next meeting which will be held Thursday evening, June 7th, at Kingsbury Lodge.
Young Man Drowns At Burton Beach – The first drowning of many years in Quartermaster Harbor claimed Tuesday evening Donald Spurlock, of 3527 South Sheridan, Tacoma. The young man was a member of a party of young people who had spent the day at the Assembly grounds. At six o’clock they decided to go in swimming. Shortly after entering the water Spurlock began to bob up and down in the water in a peculiar manner, and although the others noticed his peculiar action the fact that he uttered no outcry led them to believe that nothing was wrong. However, when he sank and failed to come to the surface they immediately recovered the body, and although artificial respiration was at once applied they could not revive him.
In New Quarters – The office force and feed and lumber supply are in the new quarters at Vashon. Large, airy offices occupy the front of the building, back of which are the candling and humidor rooms. Still farther back is a large room for the storage of feeds. Upstairs, along the entire length of the building is a large room, which will be used for the storage of finishing lumber. The building will be stuccoed this week, and completely finished, after which the work will be started on another building of the same size on the other side of the lot.
Beall-Hansen Building Going Up Very Rapidly – Work is being pushed rapidly on the Beall-Hansen building. The building is divided into two storerooms, the smaller of which will be occupied by the Sweet Shop and the larger by the Daily Needs. The storerooms will be modern in every detail. Several truckloads of sawdust are being used for the refrigerating room of the Daily Needs.
Burton Pavilion Opens For Season – Those who have enjoyed the dances conducted by Ruby Roessler at her Bayview Pavilion at Burton for several summers will be glad to know that she is again opening it for the season on Saturday evening, June 3rd, and every Saturday evening through the summer season.
Man’s Body Found At Paradise Cove – While eating his lunch at Vashon Monday, Deputy Sheriff Shattuck received word of the discovery of a drowned man near Bates’ at Paradise Cove. The report was made by James Galley, of Yakima, who had been spending the weekend there with Seattle friends. Rising early Monday morning Galley had gone out on the beach to do some rifle practicing with a .22 caliber rifle, before breakfast. He fired several shots at what he supposed to be a floating log some distance from shore. He went into the house for breakfast about 9:30, coming out later to discover that the supposed log was the body of a man, left by the ebbing tide. The body had been kept afloat by a life preserver put on backwards, with the strings not even tied. One shoe was missing. Four of the shots fired by Galley had hit their mark, but it was evident from the state of the body that the man had been dead long before he was struck by the bullets. The driver’s license in the pocket of his coat proved the man to be Goodwin O’Brien, of 3617 19th Ave. S.W., Seattle. According to information furnished by E.W. Berven, a friend of the dead man, and a fellow postal employee, O’Brien, in company with a woman friend, a Miss Totten, left Tacoma at nine o’clock Sunday evening, to bring to Seattle a 22 foot open boat, equipped with a Ford engine, which Berven and O’Brien had purchased recently. Berven, who had driven the two to Tacoma, returned to Seattle in his auto, and when his friend failed to appear Monday morning, he notified authorities. Up to the present time no trace of boat or of the woman has been found, although F.J. Shattuck, in company with Bill Sears and Jack Allingham, both from the sheriff’s office combed the beach from Lisabeula to Camp Sealth Tuesday. An autopsy performed Tuesday proved conclusively that death was due to drowning. It is thought that while the life preserver kept the body of the man afloat that he may have received an injury, which rendered him unconscious during which time drowning occurred. O’Brien is the widower of Mrs. Lucy O’Brien who was fatally shot by her stepson, Leslie Barrett, as the sequel of a drinking party in March 1932, and for which Barrett is serving a term in the state penitentiary.
The Met-Cro garage has been enjoying a good business since its opening on Monday.
June 7th has been designated as Island Day for residents of Bainbridge and Vashon Islands to visit Old Ironsides at Pier 41 in Seattle. As this is the first and last tour of American ports that the U.S. Constitution will make there is little doubt that every school child possible will be given the opportunity to see the old ship which has played such an important part in our nation’s history.
The Middling lot is looking better every day, with the debris of the fire being removed, and preparations for rebuilding getting under way.

June 8, 1933

To The Island Girls – Each year the editor of the News-Record receives inquiries from summer people desiring full or part time help. I have been able to make helpful suggestions in a number of cases. There are, no doubt, a number of Island girls wanting and needing work. Usually it is by sheer good luck that I have definite knowledge of these girls. There is no agency locally whereby these girls can get in touch with prospective employers, so this seems to be one little service the editor can do for the community. I cannot promise positions but I would be glad, if there are any girls looking for summer work, to receive a letter from them, stating previous experience, qualifications wages expected, age, etc., not omitting information as to cooking ability. Please do not phone this information to me. The letter may be sent to Mrs. Smock personally.
Pheasant Eggs Received – A shipment of ring-neck pheasant eggs has been received from the state game farm at Steilacoom. They will be distributed among members of the Sportsman’s Club for hatching. The young birds will be released when 5 weeks old.
Vashon Island Still Needs Relief Funds – Considerable comment has been aroused over the statement published last week in a city daily that Vashon Island has reached the point that the relief program could be discontinued. To say the least this statement was unfortunate and premature. There will be a certain need of relief work for some months to come, although each week is finding a few more families able to take care of their own needs. With gardens coming on and a few jobs available those who have been receiving help and so inclined can come more nearly taking care of themselves. Too many have been regarding the money for relief, as did the children of Israel, the manna provided in the wilderness. Like all good things of the present day the cold, hard cash which has been providing this relief comes not from on high, in unlimited quantities, but it has its limitations and the limits of the money loaned King County by the R.F.C. have been about reached. Our county is bankrupt. The bonds voted last fall to take care of outstanding relief indebtedness and provide for a two million dollar relief program having gone begging, and can find no buyers. It is just a case of good plain reasoning, and from all indications the relief will be withdrawn of necessity through lack of funds, regardless of whether the Island people can or cannot take care of themselves. We do question the necessity of an investigator from the Seattle office, however, as we feel that the honesty and intelligence of our local workers, Mrs. Shattuck and Mr. Prigg, added to their knowledge of local conditions makes a local superior unnecessary. Her salary could be used to good advantage in extending our local relief program a little longer. A community like ours does not need a trained social welfare worker half as much as it needs the good garden variety of common sense and a thorough knowledge of our people.
Island Suitable for U.S. Airplane Base – Interest was aroused Saturday by the two airplanes circling over the Island and there were various surmises as to the reasons. After hearing over the radio Thursday evening a broadcast of a dinner being given for officers of the fleet of army planes which visited the coast last week, S.P. Stevens, vacationing in his log cabin at Vashon Heights, called together a group of representative business men. He outlined to them that he had just learned that plans for spending 20 million dollars for air school fields and emergency landing fields was a part of the proposed air defense program of the U.S. army. Mr. Stevens pointed out the suitability of the Island for such a field and had no difficulty in persuading the group he had called in that the plan was feasible. Vashon-Maury Island would provide a site for an army flying field that would be equally suitable for either land or sea planes. With its high banks underground hangers could easily be constructed for the amphibian type of plane. The altitude of the higher parts of the Island, 300 feet, would insure a fog free atmosphere in practically all weather. There are large tracts of cheap land available that could be easily prepared for either a large or small field. At the request of Mr. Stevens, represented by Royce Wise, the matter was presented first to W.W. Connor, state director of aviation and member of the national department of commerce. Mr. Connor was interested and admitted the entire feasibility of the plan. It was then put before Gen. Westover who directed that an air survey of the Island be made on Saturday. It is reported that in two or three weeks a ground survey will be made and suitable tracts listed.
Island Man Makes A Peculiar Appeal – Possibly no paper has ever been requested to publish a more startling advertisement than one contained in this week’s issue of the News-Record. One of our Island men, apparently in full possession of his senses, is advertising for all of the cats Island residents can spare. Aside from the fact that the cat must have a tail there are no limitations as to size, shape, color or state of preservation, (although the animal must be alive). There is only this one condition, he does not want any household pets, only the unwanted cats. While he will not inquire into the method by which you acquire any cats he may dispatch for you, he prefers that you not purloin your neighbor’s cat. He is offering no price for the pussycats, nor does he expect to commercialize on the proposition. He feels that in ridding the Island of as many unwanted cats as possible he is performing a service not along to the Island people but to the cats themselves, for this is a cruel world for a cat without a home. And thereby hangs a tale, not to mention the tail appended.

June 15, 1933

Kitchell Will Speak June 23 – On Thursday evening the regular meeting of the executive committee was held at which time Mrs. B.D. Tidball, representing the King County Welfare League, spoke in behalf of the relief program on the Island. From all indications it is the wish of the relief organization to close the local relief program as soon as possible. Apparently the feeling is that with summer gardens coming on and fruit picking available those who have been dependent on welfare during the winter months should be able to care for themselves, with the exception of a few. It was pointed out by several that the relief program could not be closed for several weeks as gardens had not reached the stage of contributing much food and that fruit picking could not, by the very nature of things, provide more than supplementary help. The fact that the Island has no payrolls and that the farmer, who has been hard hit, must get his fruit crop harvested as cheaply as possible has to be reckoned with. The consensus of opinion seemed to be that while the relief program could not be entirely eliminated, it could be materially reduced within the next few weeks. Mr. Royce Wise registered a vehement protest against the misuse of the property opened to the public for a dumping ground. Unless rubbish, which should not include garbage, is dumped into the canyon and not spread along the surrounding territory the dump will be closed. Everything from infertile eggs, dead chickens, magazines, etc. up to automobile bodies have been dumped, and only a small part of the refuse has been thrown over the bank, as was the original plan. The committee promised that a man would be hired one day each two weeks to keep the place clean. This, with the cooperation of those using the dump should change present unsanitary conditions now existing. It should not be necessary to point out the inadvisability of using this place as a garbage dump. Already the odor of decaying matter is so strong that people living to the south of the place are making complaint. The matter of the Ellisport picnic grounds and sand spit was thoroughly discussed and after due consideration was laid on the table until it can be presented to the state park commission.
Game Department Delivers Trout – The next regular meeting of the Vashon Island Sportsman’s club will be held at 8 o’clock next Friday evening, June 16th. This should be an interesting meeting as the predatory animal control committee is to make its report. The state game department delivered 25,000 eastern brook trout to the Island streams last Friday. Our boys were on the job to help plant them. Now if the young boys, and the old boys as well, will be conservative for the next two years in catching fish and will stay inside the legal limit we will have some good fun fishing in these small streams. We also received 250 pheasant eggs for hatching. These birds are to be liberated on the Island. I believe these are really worthwhile activities. We are getting, for the Island, some really good publicity with the game department and the sportsmen of this western district. We have been assured of 100 percent cooperation from the game officials. So come to our meeting for further information. – E.R. NePage, President.
Car Somersaults Down Bank – On last Saturday a spectacular wreck occurred on the Sylvan Beach road, resulting in a surprisingly small damage to car and occupants. Paul Land, with three young women was driving down toward Corbin Beach and turned out to allow a car coming up the hill to pass. Brush along the side of the road made it impossible to know that the ground was not solid. Slipping over the edge the car went down the bank, turning over twice, then, doing a somersault it landed with the engine in a tree. Evidently the car was built for that sort of usage, for when the tree was cut down it pulled up the bank on its own power. By some miracle, although they were showered with broken glass, the four occupants of the car escaped with only slight bruises.
Excursion To See “Old Ironsides” – Capt. N.G. Christensen this week announced a very special excursion rate, Sunday, June 18th, on the Virginia V which will give Island people, particularly West Siders, an excellent opportunity to see Old Ironsides in Tacoma. Arriving at noon the Virgina V will land less than two blocks from where the Constitution is moored. It will be an easy walk along the waterfront.
Burton News Items – J.H. Williams is having built back of his store, a garage, woodshed and feed room combined, with C.N. Christman master carpenter.
Cannery Starts Operation Soon – On Tuesday the Vashon Auto Freight delivered 500 sacks of sugar to the B.D. Mukai cannery, in preparation for its opening the latter part of this week. Mr. Mukai, who already has contracted more than 100 acres of berries, plans on barreling at least 50 barrels of cold pack berries per day. He anticipates a short crop, however, as many of the fields have been uncared for and there are not nearly as many plants bearing as in normal times. He hopes to secure sufficient berries to put up at least 800 barrels. In the fields Mukai pickers will be divided into groups of white, Japanese, Filipino and Indian pickers. Mr. Mukai has made some interesting experiments in handling the various types of pickers, and has learned that a mixed crew is preferable to one kind. His observations would be of interest to a student of psychology, as he has keenly noted the peculiarities of the different nationalities.
One of the noticeable features of the crowds that visited Old Ironsides, and which was noted by a number of Island people, was the hush that pervaded the scene, and the reverent attitude displayed by young and old alike. We are, nationally, inclined to be irreverent, but in this instance all seemed to feel as though they were walking on holy ground. It made one proud to think that we, conglomerate people, could rear in our hearts such a shrine as the old ship represents.

June 22, 1033

Loans Are Limited To Maximum $5,000 – Farmers of this country will be interested in the statement just received by I.M. Krokset, secretary-treasurer of the Cove National Farm Loan Association and F.M. Sherman secretary-treasurer of the Vashon-Maury district, from J.A. Scollard, agent of the Farm Loan Commissioner, stationed in the Federal Lank Bank of Spokane, telling how it is expected there will be a substantial scale down in the debts of many borrowers because the farmer getting a loan will be able to offer cash for settlement of debts which he might not otherwise be able to pay. Commissioner’s loans are being made to reduce and refinance farmer’s debts on a longer term basis, to supply working capital and the refinance foreclosed farms. Loans are limited to a maximum of $5,000 each. These loans plus all prior mortgages or other evidences of indebtedness secured by the farm property may not exceed 75 per cent of the appraised value thereof.
Working For The Completion of Road – On Tuesday a committee composed of Dr. J.G. Bennett, Jesse Shaw and F.J. Shattuck interviewed, in Seattle, W.D. Shannon, director of relief, for King County, and J.D. Young, who handles the funds disbursed for improvement projects under the new plan now being put into motion. The committee placed before the two men an outline of what they wished done in the completion of the Burton – Tahlequah road. Two unfinished sections between Burton and Shawnee, and between the Sheffield and Flower ranches remain. These would meet the requirements of the provision that the work undertaken must be 90 percent labor and 10 percent cost of material, and would open up jobs for a number of men. Rep. Roy Cochrane is also working on the matter and in a letter received from him this week stated that the state director of highways appeared favorable to the project.
Relief Program Closed – It was announced last week that the relief program on the Island had been closed and the office discontinued. For the present Mr. Prigg will take calls for labor and will issue vouchers at the regular station every Tuesday at Vashon, Burton and Dockton. There are 60 families receiving relief, but these will be cut down as rapidly as possible, and transferred to the regular welfare agencies.
Raymond Edson Killed By Auto – A shocking accident which occurred about 2:00 o’clock Tuesday resulted in the almost instant death of Raymond Edson near Vashon Gardens, northeast of Vashon. According to the report of Kenneth Coffin, driver of the car, Raymond had jumped on to the running board of the Ford truck driven by the Coffin boy. As the truck was making a turn in the driveway of the Nakimichi ranch Raymond waved to a friend, lost his hold on the car, and although he alighted on his feet the motion of the car threw him off of his feet and he stumbled, head first into a parked truck. Striking a sharp corner of the truck the boy suffered head injuries just above the left ear. He was lifted into the Coffin truck at once and taken to Dr. McMurray’s office but died before reaching there. The father, Hiram Edson, and a brother, John, were at once notified of the accident, but arrived only to find that Raymond was dead. Both were almost prostrated by the shock, but as soon as they were sufficiently recovered went to break the terrible news to the mother. The family, who have suffered a series of misfortunes, have the sympathy of the community, which was shocked by the news.
Obituaries Should Be Sent To Paper – In a community as scattered as ours it is almost impossible to publish adequate obituaries unless we have the cooperation of the bereaved family or friends. We regret our inability to get full details, but in a number of cases, where the families of the deceased have not supplied us with them we have overlooked items of this nature. The publishing of an obituary is only a small way in which we can show our sympathy and we can do it only with the cooperation of family or friends.
Interesting Display In Burton Pharmacy – Those who visit Burton this week will see an interesting display in the Burton Pharmacy of medals and ribbons awarded the Medosweet Dairy Co. of Tacoma for the excellence of their ice cream which is sold locally only by the Burton drug store. Mr. Shaw feels a pardonable pride in having the agency for a company that puts out such a superior product as these tokens indicate. And incidentally, we feel perfectly safe in saying, that if it were not a quality product Mr. Shaw would not be handling it.
No Assessment For Garden Shrubs Or New Coat Of Paint – On Tuesday two members of the assessor’s office, Mr. P.P. Bliss, chief land appraiser, an H.S. Woodley, acreage man, visited the Island and called at the News-Record office. They are making a tour of the rural districts of King County. Mr. Bliss is particularly anxious to correct a mistaken idea that is quite common. He states that his office receives as high as a dozen calls a day from people wanting to paint their houses and clean up their yards, but hesitating through fear of increased assessment. Unless the house is remodeled, or the property improved in such a way as to increase the value substantially, no boost in the assessed valuation will be made. And he wants every homeowner in King County to know that a fresh coat of paint on the house, or a few shrubs in the yard does not mean a higher tax through increased valuation.
Sportsman’s Ass’n Finish Cat Contest – At a meeting of the Vashon Island Sportsman’s Association last Friday evening a report was given on the drive to destroy all wild cats which constitute a menace not only to wild bird life but to the chicken industry. The two captains, Worley Zimmerman and Al Roen, brought in the proofs of their kills, cat tails ranging in length from less than two inches to several times that length. Al Roen’s team was delared vistor, with 91 tails to its credit, while Worley Zimmerman’s team had a total of 73. At some future date the losers will entertain the winners at a dinner. President NePage warmly commended all who took part in this drive for the good work that had been done. He pointed out the damage that a cat, uncared for, could do in destroying young birds and chicks, not commensurate with the destruction of rodents they might affect. Although the contest proper is now ended it was the unanimous opinion that the drive should continue for another two weeks so that this territory could be completely cleaned up, not only of stray cats but of all other predatory animals. A report was made on the planting of the Island creeks with eastern brook trout. If properly conserved this will result in good fishing in the Island streams a few years hence.
Benefit At Theatre – On Wednesday evening, June 28th, a benefit performance for the Island fire fighting equipment will be given at the Vashon Theatre, under the auspices of the Vashon Business Men’s Club. One of Maurice Chevalier’s pictures will be shown, it was definitely announced today (Wednesday). The management of the show house was unable, however, to state the exact title. Since the fire truck is operated for the benefit of the entire Island, although maintained by the businessmen’s organization of Vashon, it is hoped that there will be a good attendance at the two shows next Wednesday evening.
Norman Edson was an early visitor to Seattle Monday morning. Returning on the 10 o’clock bus he stated that he had “just come off of the air,” which at first seemed a rather difficult stunt for a person of Mr. Edson’s build, but it was subsequently explained that he had been making another of those broadcasts that are giving Vashon Island so much favorable publicity. It is impossible to measure the good that Mr. Edson is doing in keeping the Island before the radio public of the Northwest.
Dockton News – Mr. and Mrs. George Plancich of Gig Harbor visited relatives with a party of friends Sunday on the boat Southland. Capt. Mitchell Planchard of the boat Liberty Girl, took a party of friends on a boat trip around the Island and Gig Harbor and Point Defiance Sunday.
Dockton News – A.C. Stuckey is in Gig Harbor on the boat Southland fixing up for summer salmon fishing.

June 29, 1933

Burton Organization Realizes A Tidy Sum – A large crown turned out for the strawberry festival given by the auxiliary of the Burton Community Church last Saturday afternoon and evening. Refreshments and a sale of needlework netted a total of $30.
Sweet Shop Back To Old Location – The Sweet Shop, which has been doing business in the bakery shop at Vashon, is again back in the location occupied until the fire of April 17th. Under rather crowded conditions both the bakery and the Sweet Shop have managed to get along in one building for more than two months. Now the new Beall-Hansen building is again rebuilt, and the Johnsons are moved in without interruption of their service to the public. The new store when completely equipped will be modern in every necessary detail. Mr. and Mrs. Johnson are endeavoring to give the best service possible and are to be commended for their courage and determination in the face of the loss they suffered.
Corbin Road Being Widened – A crew of ten men are at work widening the Corbin road and making it safe for the summer traffic. Previously the road was so narrow that cars could not pass, and was recently the scene of an auto accident in which the Land car overturned down the bank. The work, which is being done by relief workers, consists of digging into the bank, making the road wide enough for two cars. Contrary to the opinion that all work being done by men on relief is created and not of special necessity, this work on the Corbin road is just one of a number of jobs that have been of real importance to the Island.
Vashon Garden Party Attracted Large Crowd – Despite threatening weather the strawberry festival on the Hansen lawn at Vashon was a success from every angle. The auxiliary of the Presbyterian church realized more than $25 profit. Games were arranged for the youngsters and they enjoyed themselves fully as much as their elders. In the evening chairs were arranged on the lawn, the piano was moved out to the porch and the young people of the church, under the direction of Mrs. Hazel Blekkink gave a splendid program.
Daily Needs Installs Modern Equipment – This week the Daily Needs Market returned to its old location in the newly rebuilt Beall-Hansen building at Vashon. The new store, however, is just twice the size of the old one, and while Mr. Thompson did not exactly choose the fire route to accomplish this end the new arrangement was just what he had been planning on for some time. From front to back the plant is modern and sanitary. Its equipment includes a refrigeration plant. There are two coolers, one for meats, the second for vegetables and ice storage. Ice, at the rate of 1500 pounds per day, is manufactured by the refrigerating machine. The three attractive display cases, and the pleasing color scheme of green and white, in a well-lighted, airy room, makes a combination that is exceptionally modern in appearance. A complete line of groceries and vegetables will be carried in conjunction with a fine line of fresh and cured meats.
Advancement Club Meets – The newly organized Vashon Island Advancement Club, starting off with a membership of 40, held its regular meeting at the Island Club, Tuesday evening. This organization, with an interesting program of recreational, industrial and civic betterment projects, invites all interested to attend any of its meetings. Its object is mutual advancement, and of the principals are adhered to would seen to have a need in such a community as ours.
FORUM – Dear Editor: Now that depression’s dark clouds are breaking away, and streaks of the sunshine of returning prosperity are showing through, it is well to look about us and see how bravely or neighbors have stood the slings and arrows of adversity. There are many of our Island enterprises whose courage will be remembered in the golden years to come, among these will be the Vashon Island Transportation Co. Adhering with wonderful faith to a schedule adopted in more propitious times; through all kinds of weather, winter and summer, from Burton into the heart of Seattle. How many times has that faithful orange colored stage started in the cold, dark hours of a winter morning, with all too few passengers, to make the long trip over the ferry into the city? But what a wonderful thing it was for less fortunate persons, who did not own a car to know that transportation, as regular, and dependable as a railroad would be, passing certain points at certain times. I wonder how many there are who would care to work without pay, willing to sacrifice almost anything and everything as long as the way led to the fulfillment of an ideal of accomplishment? A service well rendered under trying circumstances to one’s community is something to do homage to. I take off my hat to the Vashon Island Transportation Co. I hope the reward will be great for the faithful service rendered Vashon Island, and the thousand and one courtesies of its personnel. – Norman Edson.
Burton News Items – Any improvements in our little village should be reported, so we are noting! The painting of Henry Godfrey’s and Coy Meredith’s homes, both white, and the annual event of going over the post office building with “water-proof” paint – this time guaranteed to withstand the wintry blasts – will take place as soon as the walls are dried out from the last storm!!
Ellisport Items – This week has brought on a good many more improvements to Ellisport, among those, Dr. Torland has added a beautiful red sidewalk to his place. Also Mrs. Brown, and Mrs. Cunningham have each invested in a new sidewalk.

July 1933
July 6, 1933

It Was A Good Excursion – About 250 persons took advantage of the Fourth of July excursion to Bremerton Tuesday evening. A good deal of disappointment was felt over the failure of the transportation company to keep their promise and provide a ferry for the trip, but it was just another one of those things. And after all the thrill of seeing colors struck on the bevy of battleships, and the Constitution was worth the price of the trip, with the gorgeous moonlight thrown in for good measure.
Will Broadcast Monday – On next Monday morning between 9:15 and 9:30 Norman Edson will review the Vashon Island lily show over radio station KOMO. He will be interviewed by Betty Stewart. Last Monday morning Mr. Edson made an announcement of the show over the same station, which has brought a great many inquiries. Through his opportunities for radio work Mr. Edson is giving the Island a lot of very valuable publicity.
Amos Frombach Wins In Seattle Star Race – Neighbors and friends of Amos Frombach were delighted this (Wednesday) morning to hear that he had won second place in the Seattle Star race around Lake Washington, making the 52 mile distance in 7 ½ hours. He received a check for $100 at the close of the race. Amos, a member of this year’s graduating class from our high school, has been training for weeks in preparation for the hike around the lake. He has been a familiar figure along the roads of Maury Island, as clad in scanty garments, he has walked every morning and evening getting in condition for the race. From the color of his skin it would be hard to tell his nationality for he has acquired that lovely chocolate tan that is now in vogue. However, it was not to acquire the cost of tan, but the hope of winning that kept the boy training even when opportunity for work kept him busy in the berry field during the day. He lost no opportunity to earn all he could from day to day while hoping for a fortunate outcome of the race. While no details of the race are available as we go to press the News-Record is glad to be able to announce that one of our local youngsters has shown his stuff and is able to accomplish what he starts out to do.
Girl Scouts Organized – Miss Gladys Jacobs has organized a Girl Scout group for the benefit of the younger girls of the Island. There were eight girls at the opening meeting.
Milk and Medicine Dance Next Thursday – Not that anyone’s attention need be called to it, but we nevertheless call your attention to the fact that on Thursday evening of next week, July 13th, at the Island Club a dance will be given proceeds of which will be donated to the milk and medicine fund for Island relief.
Meeting Postponed – The meeting of the Contract Club will be postponed this week until Friday, July 14, when it will meet at the home of Mrs. David Baldwin.
To Take Enforced Vacation – For the remainder of July the editor of the News-Record will be absent from the office, taking an enforced vacation. During our absence we are leaving the duties of the front office in the capable hands of Mrs. Edward Harmeling. Mrs. Harmeling has had considerable training and experience in country newspaper work and will have no difficulty in carrying on. She is not as well acquainted as the present incumbent with the people of the Island so we trust that all of our readers will help her in every way possible by sending in news items. Any item which may have news value to you will interest someone else. The only danger in helping Mrs. Harmeling by sending in items is that when we return we shall probably expect our subscribers to keep right on doing their bit toward making the local paper a real news record in fact as well as name.
Golf Club Holds Grocery Tournament – Observing the depression, a two-ball foursome grocery tournament was played at the Island golf course Sunday, July 2. The prizes were generous, each winner taking home or getting credit for four prizes each. The prizes included 50-pound sacks of flour, ten gallons of gas, tomatoes, teeth cleaning, cameras, films, and money for insurance.
Children Are Enjoying Homemade Ferris Wheel – The four little Blekkink girls are entertaining their young friends and relatives royally on the ferris wheel their father built for them this week. It is a plaything any parent handy with tools could construct. The wheel turns on an axis supported by a simple framework. There are four seats, which are bolted to the spokes of the wheel loosely enough so that they keep in an upright position regardless of whether on top or bottom of the arc. Motive power is furnished by the children themselves, whoever is at the bottom giving a mighty shove to carry the wheel around until the youngster above is in a position to do his share. This is only one of a number of pieces of playground equipment Willis Blekkink has built for his own and neighborhood youngsters to enjoy.
Burton News Items – The Burton Service Garage changed hands July 1st. Ed Woods selling to Digby Williams.
Editorial - The article in last week’s News-Record by Norman Edson, anent the bus service, was appreciated by all who depend on the bus for transportation. If people who drive their own cars would let their friends use the bus, instead of offering free rides, that would be another step forward to put the bus service on a paying basis and would, if explained to the friends, cause no ill feeling.

July 13, 1933

Miss Yuri Hoshi Leaving for Japan – Miss Yuri Hoshi, a graduate of the 1933 Vashon high school class, will leave for Japan July 21 on the S.S. Heian Maru to enter private school in Tokyo. She will have the opportunity to meet Premier Saito and several members of noble families. Mrs. Hoshi is sending gifts of oranges and kasavas to Premier Saito, and various other gifts to friends. Miss Hoshi is taking a complete wardrobe of American clothing, cosmetics and books. She says that in the cities European clothes are worn, and only in the rural districts is there a predominance of the kimono.
Community Club Paying Back Bills – The Community Club met Friday July 7th in the Community Club House. The treasurer’s report showed that back rents were coming in which have enabled the club to make the final payment of $14 to England & Petersen for shingles, and pay all local bills except the hardware, which amounts to $24.51. The insurance and taxes are still unpaid, and money will have to be raised or come in from rental for these purposes.
Milk and Medicine Fund Dance Thursday – The executive committee of the Commercial Club is sponsoring a dance at the Island Club Thursday (tomorrow), July 13th. The Blondie Jacobsen orchestra, piano and accordion, will furnish the music. During the past winter the Commercial Club has provided milk and medicine for the needy. They were eligible to medicine at the Harborview hospital but the trip in town was more than the cost of the medicine, usually, so the Commercial Club has aided these people by guaranteeing payment of necessary bills. This dance is to raise funds for these bills. People from all parts of the Island have been aided by this fund.
Thanks – I wish to thank the contributors who have phoned or brought in news items which has helped to make this paper interesting, and which have assisted me in attempting to fill Mrs. Smock’s place. – Mrs. Peggy Harmeling.
Contract Club To Meet – The Contract Club of the Orthopedic Guild will meet at the home of Mrs. David Baldwin Friday, July 14, at 2 o’clock. This will be the eighth lesson in a series of twelve. The membership has increased and concentrated interest has been shown by the players.
Matrons of 1928 Picnic on Island – A picnic for the 1928 matrons of the Order of the Eastern Star of King County and their families was held at the Gabourel home Sunday, July 9.
Car With One Light Causes Accident – Mr. and Mrs. W.D. Covington were returning from the lily show Sunday night with a carload of vases and flowers when a “one-lunger” car crowded them off the road into a six-foot ditch. Mr. Covington did not know the ditch was there because of the profusion of weeds along the roadside. The car was tipped sideways and it was necessary to call the wrecker to pull it out. No one was hurt as Mr. Covington was driving slowly to keep out of the way of the other car.
Mr. and Mrs. Carl Wick have moved to their new home just west of Vashon grade school. They have built the latest type laying houses, incubator houses and living houses for their chickens. There are thirty acres of land with the place which will provide plenty of room for expansion in the chicken business.
E. Dannewig shipped the first loganberries off the Island Thursday, July 6. These were reported to be the first off the Island.
Mrs. Anna McCrary gave a luncheon for the members of “The Business Women’s Social Club” July 7, in honor of Mrs. Agnes Smock. An unexpected pleasure were the corsages sent to the members during the luncheon hour with anonymous greetings.
It has been announced by the committee that there will be no carnival held at Vashon this summer. Tentative plans are being made for a mid-winter carnival to be held indoors shortly before Christmas.
Burton News Items – Jimmie Butler is back on his paper route again after several days under the doctor’s care for an injured eye, suffered from a torpedo explosion on the Fourth. The accident was not serious.
Burton News Items – The three Island boys, Russ Middling, John Staples and Doug Swanson, returned the first of the week from an auto trip to the Chicago fair. Get the report of their three weeks vacation first hand, it will make you want to go and do likewise.
Farewell Party – Members of the high school class of the Methodist Episcopal Church surprised Miss Yuri Hoshi with a farewell party at her home Tuesday evening. Mrs. Thomas Steffenson planned an unusual game called “Ship Ahoy” which described the events that would happen after Yuri boards the steamer for Japan.

July 20, 1933

Milk and Medicine Dance Nets $18.70 – The guests at the milk and medicine fund dance had a good time last Thursday night at the Community Club House. There was excellent music furnished by the Blondie Jacobson orchestra. Circle fox trots were the feature dances, enjoyed by all. There was a program of Cowboy Joe” songs, with Mr. Ted Fishback playing the guitar and singing. Mrs. Lena Davis made a duet during the song program, joining Mr. Lewis in singing some of her original songs.
Center School Dist. In Excellent Shape – With most of the school districts in the state of Washington, and over the nation as well, in debt, the Center school stands unique with its record of $500 ahead of the budget for 1932-33 after all debts have been paid. This shows that the school board has looked ahead and has been unusually successful in handling of their finances.
Mukai Rock Gardens Attract Island Visitors – The Mukai rock gardens are a great source of interest to Island visitors. Hardly a day goes by during the summer but what there are a number of people who visit the rockery, which is becoming nationally famous through these visitors. On the day of the lily show, it was estimated there were three hundred sightseers at the rockery. Mr. Mukai is most gracious in explaining the great variety of plants and the plan of the rockery.
Examination for Permits Will Be Held Thursday – There will be an examination for applicants for drivers’ licenses held in the Vashon-Record office Thursday, July 20. Patrolman Harry C. Snider will conduct the examination. He will be in the office all day. The examination consists of a written and practical test, and a grade of 75 percent is necessary to pass. Mr. Snider says, “It is not the intention of the department to work a hardship on anyone, and we will do our best to make each one qualify; it may require several weeks for some, but they must know the rules of the road and motor courtesy for safety, and also the vehicle must be in proper mechanical repair for proper control when upon the public highways.”
Harvesting of Berry Crop Is In Full Swing – This week currants, loganberries, raspberries and sweet cherries are being picked on the Island. The pickers are making from forty cents to two dollars a day, depending on the conditions of the fields in which they pick. If the field has been well cared for, the crop is abundant and picking goes fast, but if it has been neglected and needs cultivation or the vines need training, or the field is on an undesirable slope, it is difficult to make a day’s wage.
England & Petersen’s Lumber Shed Complete – The new lumber warehouse of England & Petersen has been completed and is in operation. The building is 120 x 22 and holds about 100,000 feet of lumber. There is a cement building at the end with capacity for more than a carload of cement. The office has been finished in veneer paneling which has a gray rub stain which brings out the grain of the wood effectively. The entire place is enclosed by fence. This addition makes another fine business building in Vashon’s program of reconstruction after the fire this spring.
Road Committee Meets With County Officials – Mr. J.F. Shaw, chairman of the Highway Committee of the Commercial Club and Dr. J.G. Bennett, president, met with the King County Relief Committee Tuesday morning. No definite plan has been worked out for the distribution of governmental funds on the relief work program. However, this money is going to be spent soon and action must be taken at once if the smaller communities are going to get a share of it. The highway committee will endeavor to get assistance from both state and county in order to get the Burton to Tahlequah road completed. The completion of this road is of vital importance to all of Vashon Island. The road committee will appreciate the backing of the residents of Vashon and Maury Islands. There are a number of road projects to be completed in the future, but as only one at a time can be worked on, the committee is concentrating on this thoroughfare, which unites the Seattle and Tacoma ferry systems.
Editorial - Gathering the news for a paper is fascinating work. I come on Monday morning, without an idea of the weekend happenings or events of interest that should be published. The phone rings, correspondents send in news items, the business men contribute information, school boards have meetings to be recorded, and statistics to be given out, topics of general news value arrive by mail, the exchange newspapers contain something of worth for the Island, and by Wednesday noon a paper is ready to go on the press. The Record staff appreciates items at all times. Mrs. Smock’s favorite saying is “Whatever is of interest to you, is of interest to somebody else.” There is not always a lily show, or a fire (fortunately), nor other exciting drama to make the headlines, but the daily activities of a prosperous group are more vital than a sensational story. – Peggy C. Harmeling, Acting Editor.
Burton News Items – Mr. and Mrs. Roy Parrish of Tacoma have leased the Coffee Shop in Burton and will be ready to serve the public by August 1st. They have rooms over Dr. Grandy’s office.
The electric light company has supplied electricity to the cottages at West Beach, just south of the Cove dock where many of the Vashon residents have summer camps.
Two Cars Damaged, The Result Of Collision – R.G. Tobin and Carl Hauge of 1258 John St., Seattle, crashed into each other while driving on the highway in front of the Chas. England home at ten a.m. Monday morning. The cars were pretty badly smashed, with bent axles, broken front wheels, fenders torn off and frames twisted, but no one was hurt. Mr. Hauge’s car is at the Vashon garage undergoing repairs.
Vashon Heights’ Tennis Club Victorious Saturday – The Vashon Heights’ Tennis Club returned victorious from a tournament played at Sylvan Beach on Saturday, July 15. On Sunday, a tournament was started on Bragg’s court with the East Side players. The matches were continued on the East Side court but were called off on account of darkness with the Heights team leading 4-3. The tournament will be finished next Sunday.

July 27, 1933

Moonlight Excursion Saturday, August 12th – On Saturday night, August 12, the Ferry Vashon will run an excursion around the Island, leaving the Vashon Heights dock at 9:00 pm and returning at 1:00 am. There will be two orchestras providing music for dancing. Save the date and invite your friends to go on this excursion.
Contract Bridge Club – The Orthopedic Contract Bridge Club will meet at the home of Mrs. Digby Williams, Friday, July 28 at twelve noon. There will be a picnic luncheon before bridge. Mrs. Henry Brosseau is the assisting hostess.
Vashon Water District Installs New Pump – The Vashon Water District has recently installed a new electric pumping system to increase the efficiency of the plant. The rams will continue to be used, but when the water gets below the eighteen-inch level in the tank, the electric pump is automatically started and operates until the tank is full. In 1926 Mr. W.D. Garvin, P.M. Smock and T. Hansen co-operated with the county in starting a water system for the town of Vashon. Bonds to the amount of $14,000 were floated, and handled by local people entirely. $10,000 of this amount was in ten-year bonds, the installments by which are paid up-to-date. Seventeen acres of land was bought on which there were a number of springs around a creek. A dam was built, over which there flows 450 gallons of water a minute. This goes down to the two four-inch rams, where the pressure forces one-seventh of it up to the 20,000 gallon tank on top of a sixty foot tower in the town of Vashon. It is 512 feet from the rams to the top of the tank. The new pump was installed at a cost of about $800, under the auspices of T.N. Thompson. It is set to a pressure of 160 pounds and 48 gallons of water per minute at present, and can be increased to 300 pounds of pressure and 75 gallons of water per minute. The pump is driven by a 7 ½ horsepower motor, and is stationed directly over a large double settling tank. The settling tank is equipped with four sets of strainers, which assures Vashon of an unlimited supply of clear spring water. In 1930 there was a slide that broke the pipes from the ram and made it necessary for Vashon to use water from the South District. That is the only setback the water company has experienced. The Vashon Water District has met all payments promptly and had sufficient cash on hand to enable them to purchase the new pumping system. The water system is now controlled by W.D. Garvin, Axel Petersen, Tom Steffenson and T.N. Thompson, superintendent. Much credit is due these gentlemen who have made it possible for Vashon residents to have an abundant supply of cool spring water at such a low monthly fee.
Burton News Items – W.C. Whitfield an old Island resident, now located on the mountain road some miles from Tacoma, where he has a gas station and store, was a Burton caller Monday and later drove to Cove for a visit with the Marsh family – Mr. W. said he fasted 21 days lately a la Gandhi, and never received one bit of publicity, hence this notice. Their fasting was for different purposes – personal and national.
Joe and Phil Green visited the Island Thursday. Their boat was in Ballard, and they made a flying trip over to the Island. Phil spent the time with Paul Billingsley and Joe visited various friends.
The Reliance Printing Company moved from the Island to Seattle the first of this month. They are now operating in Seattle instead of at the Twickenham Estate.
Ellisport has been cut off from the rest of the world while the bridge is under construction.
It has been suggested that a Garden Club be formed on the Island, with a Road Club committee to help beautify the highways. Prizes might be given for the best gardens, and a great deal done to stimulate interest among the many flower-growers on the Island.

August 1933
August 3, 1933

Pedigreed Cockerels Presented To Japan – The L.C. Beall poultry farm has shipped two of the farm’s best cockerels on the S.S. Hikawa Maru, sailing to the Imperial Zootechnical Experimental Station of the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, Chilba, Japan. These are the finest cockerels in production and type, and are being sent as a compliment to the Imperial Japanese Government, to be used in their experimental work. A total of 133 birds are being shipped to Japan, 130 of which have been purchases by the government, two as a gift, and one to a firm in Japan.
Island Pioneer Picnic Recalls Days of ‘80s – About fifty pioneers on Vashon Island gathered for a picnic dinner at the Odd Fellow’s Hall last Saturday afternoon. These are residents who came to the Island before 1890. Off the Island members were Mr. and Mrs. Charles Griswold, Mrs. Andrew Griswold, W.H. Clark, Mr. and Mrs. C.D. McKinley from Seattle, Mr. and Mrs. L.S. Price of Kent, Mrs. Ashton and Mrs. Rose of Tacoma. Mrs. McKinley was formerly Jessie Yule, living near Center. She had not been on the Island for thirty-five years and the pioneers had an enjoyable time describing the improvements and progress made during the long period she was away. Mrs. Ashton and Mrs. Rose will be remembered as the O’Keefe girls. At the next meeting they are going to bring over their father’s diary kept while he lived on the Island. It contains many interesting accounts of the settling of Vashon and Maury in the early days, and describes the conditions found at that time. There was an election of officers, those who served last year being unanimously re-elected. Mr. Frances Sherman is the president, Mrs. M.L. Hansen vice-president and Mr. O.S. VanOlinda secretary and treasurer.
Orthopedic Auxiliary To Make Bottle Drive – The Vashon Orthopedic Auxiliary has begun a drive for bottles and old coat hangers. An effort will be made to call at all Vashon Island homes before September first, and the committee would appreciate it if you would have your old bottles laid aside for them. The bottles will eventually end up in match heads and the Thrift Shop will get the coat hangers. Canners are especially urged to save their Certo bottles, and if anyone wished to help a little bit more they may bring their contributions to Ellisport and leave them at Mary Snell’s house. Bottles of all shapes and sizes are welcome, the only requirement being that they be empty. Several hundred have already been collected, and among them are tiny perfume bottles and large vinegar bottles; numerous ginger ale and a few beer bottles; quantities of extract, bleaching solution, and Certo bottles; ink bottles and lotion bottles; bottles which once contained a cure for colds, headaches, chilblains, rheumatism, toothache, sunburn, and horse colic; and well, bottles. Save yours and help swell this collection, and the little crippled children. In other words let us dispose of that part of your garbage. Think twice before you throw anything away and if it’s a bottle save it.
Island Golf Course Very Popular Place These Days – The golf course was crowded Sunday, many out-of-town players coming over to enjoy the sporty links. They are enthusiastic in their praise of the grounds and the view. There have been more off-the-Island players on the course the past month than ever before.
Excursionists Will Enjoy Entertainment – A hilarious time is promised at the excursion around Vashon Island, August 8. There will be two orchestras for the dancers, and card playing for those who prefer it. The top deck will take care of the promenaders and group singers. The lunch counter will operate, serving all kinds of beverages and light lunches. The ferry Vashon will leave the Heights dock at 9 pm and return at 1 am.
Alexander Stewart To Be In New Office Location – Mr. Alexander Stewart, attorney-at-law, and resident of Vashon Island, is moving his law offices to Suite 1124 Vance Building, at Third and Union streets, opposite the post office. Associated with him will be Mr. Richard B. Ward, a nephew of Mrs. Stewart. Mr. Ward has been recently admitted to the bar.
L.R. Parrish Opens New Lunchroom At Burton – An attractive new lunch room has been opened in Burton, called The Amble Inn. It is next to the meat market, and directly across from the garage. New fixtures have been installed and the place has an inviting look. Mr. and Mrs. Lee Roy Parrish are operating the restaurant. They serve good meals, and Island residents and visitors are cordially invited to try them.
Island Receive N.R.A. Emblems – The post offices received the emblems of membership in the N.R.A. Wednesday and have issued them to merchants and employers who qualified. Vashon-Maury Island has heeded President Roosevelt’s request almost 100 per cent. All employers who were affected by the new code have signed up for membership.
Addition Made To Catholic Church At Dockton Recently – St. Patrick’s Church at Dockton, the only Catholic Church on the Island, has had such capacity crowds at services this summer it was necessary to build a balcony in the church to provide seats for all the communicants. Father Benn, of the Bellermine College in Tacoma, officiates at the mass, driving over from Tacoma each Sunday morning to hold services at 9:30 am.
Burton Service Station Changes Managership – The Burton Garage and Service Station, formerly operated by Ed Woods, has been bought by George Davis. The garage, the only one in Burton, is located on the main highway to the dock and to the Tahlequah ferry. Mr. Davis will give the best service possible, and expects to install some new equipment.
Ellisport Items – Mrs. O.L. Evans returned from Seattle yesterday to re-open the “Island Cottage Inn” for the remainder of the summer. She is now ready to serve her customers the usual appetizing meals.
Members of the Tennis and Horseshoe Club and their families had a picnic and tournament Sunday at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Clarence Bragg. Dinner for fifty was served on the lawn. Decorations of flags and flowers made the place gay and inviting.
Radio Repair Shop Complete On Wheels – A. Swan of Bremerton is on the Island for ten days with a complete radio shop on wheels. His shop on wheels is located at the Fuller Service Station, and he expects to call here monthly to do radio repair work. This is the only shop of the kind on the coast. It has the latest equipment for radio work.

August 10, 1933

Cephis Ramquist Enlarges Business – In addition to buying poultry, Cephis Ramquist is now handling the products of the John Lucas Paint Company, one of the largest paint firms in the United States, and all General Petroleum Motor Oils. The paint line includes paints suitable for finishing houses, cars, buildings, furniture, boats and oil paints for artists. Mr. Ramquist will accept both chickens and eggs as payment for paints or oils.
Island Merchants Conform With Government NRA Code – A meeting of the businessmen of the Island was held at the News-Record office Tuesday night to draw up local regulations that would fulfill the requirements of the National Recovery Act code. The majority of business houses affected have signed the NRA code and are displaying the emblems in their stores and workshops. In co-operating with the government, each community must adjust their working hours and wage scale to coincide with the standard set by this measure. The merchants and businessmen have responded in the finest manner to this request of the government, and it is up to the people to do their share in co-operating. This can be done by rigidly observing store hours, getting orders in early enough so that employees can be through with their work on schedule, and not requesting any violation of the code. The merchants are pulling together and the minority will have to follow the majority. The response has been whole-hearted among the businessmen who attended the meeting and those who have been contacted. Stores that have no competition and are operated by their owners, such as eating places and drug stores, have accepted the code but are not subject to signing an agreement, as they are not affected in the same manner as competitive businesses.
Marjory Stanley Wins Times Prize – Miss Marjorie Stanley of Newport Beach won the first prize in the Norothy Neighbors’ party letter contest conducted by the Seattle Times. The notice of the award and the prize letter were published in last Saturday’s Times. Miss Stanley wrote of a treasure shower for a bride-to-be, described the Captain Kidd’s map, the pirate crew, the treasure chest of shower gifts, and the piratical refreshments. Miss Stanley is interested in journalism, and was pleased that her letter fulfilled the space and literary qualifications as well as being original enough in ideas to qualify as prize winner.
All Island Fair Cancelled – Ira G. Thompson, chairman of the agricultural committee of the Commercial Club, announces that the plans for an All-Island fair have been cancelled. Sufficient enthusiasm has not been shown to assure the success of the affair, though if it were carried out would prove enlightening and good advertising for Island activities.
Improved Employment Condition In King Co. – The King County Welfare Board states that improved employment conditions have brought the total number of unemployed served by the Welfare Board down to 47,000, compared to a peak in March of nearly 71,000. The greater percentage of improvement was noted in communities outside the city of Seattle. In the district served by Vashon office of the Welfare Board, the drop was from 158 to 31, or 58 percent.
Cove, Cedarhurst and Colvos Items – Mr. and Mrs. John Ober have had charge of the cafeteria at the Beulah Park camp meetings.
J.F. Shaw, chairman of the road committee, F.J. Shattuck and George Sheffield conferred with the King County road committee in Seattle Monday regarding appropriations for the Island. Mr. Shear, the state engineer and Mr. Willsey, the county representative, said there were no funds available at present, but the committee is still working on the matter.
Miss Marjorie Stanley, who has been taking a rest cure this summer, is improving and is able to be out in the garden now. She receives guests, but is not taking an active part in social activities for several more weeks.
The road crew has been active for the last week blasting on the road running north and south to Glen Acres.
Neil Flenner entertained three city friends at golf Saturday afternoon on the Island course. Neil lost lots of beans, and his fellow club members extend their sympathy. Also the Free Advice Committee of the golf club has been warning Mr. Flenner to practice driving so that he can keep inside the fence and within the fairway on No. 9.
Burton News Items – The Western Washington Baptist Assembly will close their summer session at Assembly Point, Friday, August 11th. The attendance of 205 was not as large as last year, but it is reported that the instruction, lectures and program were unusually fine and the days spent here, much enjoyed.
Mr. Lloyd McElvain, Scout Master, with five Scouts, Harold Hartvigsen, Bill Poage, Luckie Smith, Hugh Little and Jim Butter, left Wednesday for the Olympics, to be gone about sixteen days. They will hike from Brinnon to Lake Quinault and back. Mr. McElvain devotes much of his time to this fine organization and deserves much credit and co-operation for his efforts to mould the character of these young people that will tell for good as the years go by.

August 17, 1933

Vashon Island High To Open September 5 – Vashon Island high school will begin the school year of 1933-34 on Tuesday, September 5th. In order to give more time to the important matter of enrollment, freshmen are requested to come to the school at any convenient hour on Monday, September 4th. At a recent meeting of the high school board it was decided to furnish free textbooks but students must supply their own pencils, paper, ink, pens, etc. In addition to the regular book and locker deposit, a fee of two dollars will be required of students in chemistry and home economics and one dollar will be charged students in typing to help pay for ribbons and repairs to machines. No special levy will be asked for this year unless the “sales and occupations tax” measure designed to raise state revenue, is found unconstitutional by the supreme court. In that event a levy would have to be voted if the school were to remain open the full year. The buses for the high school will be operated practically as before although some changes in routing have been made, and no transportation will be furnished students living within two miles of the school.
Resigns As Postmaster – Mrs. Augusta Hunt, who was postmaster at Burton for twenty-eight years, has resigned her position and is going away for a rest and change. Mrs. Hunt has served the public efficiently throughout these years, and her leaving is regretted by her friends. Mrs. Jesse Robe will be acting postmaster at Burton.
Garage Men Meet – A meeting of the garage men and service station operators was held at the Record office Friday night to further discuss their co-operation with the N.R.A. code. It was decided that garages and repair shops would be open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and closed all day Sunday, except for emergency repair work. No agreement was reached about the service stations, the hours being at the owners’ discretion until further notice. Because of ferry schedules it is necessary to maintain different hours at various points on the Island.
Lutheran Pastor Succumbs to Illness – Many Island friends and church members attended the funeral of Rev. H.H. Holte, former pastor at the Vashon Lutheran Church and the Dockton Community Church, in Seattle last Thursday.
Work Program Gives War Veterans Preference – Under orders from the President of the United States, all contractors working on federal aid construction are required to give preference, where qualified, to United States veterans with dependents, in all positions directly under their control. In line with this order, the United States Employment Service is to supply each contractor with a list of those veterans wanting work, living in the county or district where the work is to be done. To aid the United States Employment Service in compiling their list, the Corp. Alford Roberts Post of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, of Vashon Island, wants every United States veteran of any war or campaign, living on Vashon-Maury Island and having dependents, to mail or phone his name, address, number of dependents, qualifications or experience to John Ober, Vashon, Black 953.
Code For Greenhouses Is Under Preparation – Word has been received from Detroit by Mr. Wallace Beall, president of the Puget Sound Greenhouse Association, that representatives are working on the N.R.A. code for greenhouse labor and wages. The greenhouses come under the Agricultural Adjustment Act, not the Industrial code.
Changes To Standard Time In Mail Service – Starting Monday, August 21, the West Pass Transportation Company announces that the steamer Virginia V will change back to standard time. The Vashon post office is changing to standard time also, which means the mail will be distributed one hour later than it is at present with daylight saving time.
Vashon Barber Shop Buys Sanitary Shop – Mr. William Quick of the Vashon Beauty Parlor and Barbor Shop has purchased the Sanitary Barber Shop. Wenzel Lenhardt will be the assistant in the new shop, which will be in the same location as the Vashon Barber Shop. The Sanitary shop will be closed between now and the first of the month, and the equipment moved into Mr. Quick’s place of business. There will be no increase in price yet, though the Seattle shops have raised the costs of haircut and shave.
Radio Store And Shop Opens In Vashon – W.H. Evans, the Island radio man, announces the opening of a radio supply and service shop in the Garvin building. The new store will feature a complete line of radio tubes and accessories as well as expert service on all makes of radios.
NRA Code Requires Signing of Compliance – Mr. Shirl H Blackcock, district manager of the bureau of foreign and domestic commerce, which is administering the N.R.A. program for Washington, Montana and Wyoming, announces “All firms should immediately sign the President’s agreement, then comply as quickly as possible with its provisions, and having accomplished this they shall sign the compliance certificate and place it in the hands of the local postal authorities.”
L.C. Beall Brings Poultry Code Report – L.C. Beall arrived home Monday from a trip to Grand Rapids, Michigan where he went as a delegate to prepare the N.R.A. code for poultrymen and hatcheries. These industries come under the Agricultural Adjustment Act, labor and wages being under the N.R.A. A code was drawn up that will do away with unfair competition and deceitful advertising, and limit producers to their own territory in order to avoid price-cutting.
Chippewa Excursion To Be Summer Event – An excursion that offers the luxuries of ocean travel is planned by the Vashon Business Men’s Club with Tim Clark and Tip Soike as sponsors, Saturday, August 26 on the ferry motorship Chippewa. The ship will leave the Colman dock in Seattle at 7:45 p.m. and call at the Vashon Heights Dock at 8:30 p.m., returning at 12:30. The trip will be around Bainbridge Island and a visit to the Bremerton navy yard. There will be card playing arranged and two orchestras with fifteen pieces playing the latest music will provide entertainment. Dancing will be on the upper deck and the main deck. The floors have been finished for dancing, and with the peppiest music available, a good time is promised for the dancers. The Chippewa has been fitted as expensively as the most extravagant ocean liner, with overstuffed chairs and chesterfields, Philippine mahogany woodwork, table lamps, artistic floor coverings, and elaborate furnishings. There is a private cabin for ladies. The ferry is famous up and down the Pacific coast for its luxurious accommodations.
The President of the United States is laboring earnestly in an endeavor to bring the country back to normalcy. In order to accomplish this one of the first things necessary is to reduce unemployment. Millions of men and women MUST HAVE JOBS in order that their ability to purchase the necessities of life is returned to them. It is IMPERATIVE that this be accomplished at the earliest possible moment. The President and those men who have been delegated to the task, are putting into effect the great National Industrial Recovery program. It is the patriotic duty of every citizen of the United States to do his part in helping to make this program successful. No one can afford to be derelict in his duty at the present time. We the undersigned Business and Professional Men of Vashon-Maury Island, without any regard for politics or party affiliation, are behind Our President 100 percent in his laudable efforts to make this National Industrial Recovery Program a success. We urge that all citizens do their part to the end that all people who actually desire to work shall have that opportunity and that prosperity shall be restored throughout the land. F.A. Weiss, C.G. Kimmel, Vashon Heights Store, Beall’s Pedigreed Leghorn Farm, Dr. V.Charles Coutts, Dr. F.A. McMurray, Vashon Pharmacy, Vashon Post Office, Met-Cro Garage, Berry’s Store, Rendall’s Store, Morrissey’s Market, Digby Williams Shell Oil Distributor, Burton Pharmacy, Ed Zarth’s Garage, R.J. Anderson, Burton Garage Geo. Davis, Prop., The Sweet Shop, Fuller’s Super Service, Rodda’s Price-Rite Store, Burton Trading Co., Daily Needs Market, Vashon Island Co-Op Hatchery, Dr. J.G. Bennett, Dr. F.H. Grandy, Vashon Theatre, Garvins, Ed Deppman, Island Bakery, Vashon Barber Shop, Vashon Hardware Store, Vashon Ferry Lunch Counter R. Lovgren, Prop., Vashon State Bank, A.J. Marsh, Bacchus Lumber Co., England & Petersen, Beall Greenhouse Co., Vashon Laundry.
Wednesday morning one of the crew of the S.S. James Griffith, ocean liner, severely cut a main artery. A lifeboat was lowered to bring him ashore to the Virginia V, left the dock, at Cove and he was put aboard and rushed to Seattle. An ambulance was telephoned for to meet the Virginia V as it docked at Seattle.
Word has been received on the Island that the Twickenham Estate has been sold to Mr. Yates, and the Hathaway Estate has been purchased by a movie director.
Mrs. Mary Houghton had the first sweet corn from her garden last Friday. As far as we have been able to find out, this sets a record for early corn on Vashon.

August 24, 1933

Yoshimura Home Totally Destroyed – Fire of an undetermined origin totally destroyed the T. Yoshimura home southwest of Vashon last Thursday afternoon. It is believed that the fire was the result of an overheated flue, as Mrs. Yoshimura had been canning fruit and had a very hot fire for several hours. A small building, used as a woodshed, was saved by the Puget Sound Power & Light truck. A cable was attached and the shed pulled to safety. Fortunately the loss of the house and furniture was fully covered by insurance.
Two cars, a Chevrolet owned by Carl Brazier and a Chrysler owned by Charles Kent collided at the top of the Cedarhurst hill Friday morning. Both cars were badly wrecked, but the drivers were not injured.
Lost – An Owner – It is not to be wondered at that some of the fairer seekers of driving licenses were confused and bewildered by a session with Capt. Snider, but it takes a good deal to make the confirmed pipe smoker forget his chief comfort and solace. That is, however, just what happened, and the office force of the News-Record is wondering how to locate the owner of a perfectly useable, good-looking Bakelite pipe left on a recent Thursday. We infer that the owner is a man, as up to date we have failed to note any of the women of the Island smoking pipes in public. We do not, of course, deny them that prerogative, but certainly we don’t know any who do. At any rate the owner, male or female, may have the pipe upon proper identification.
To adequately express the deep appreciation felt by the editor of the News-Record for the manner in which so many have helped during the past six weeks is out of the question. Words fail us, and we can only say “Thank you.” Mrs. Harmeling has done such an excellent job in helping Mr. Denny to carry on that we will have to step lively to maintain the pace they have set. We know now that whenever we want a real vacation, (not one that starts at the hospital), that we need feel no qualms about taking it. Vacation, however, is over and the editor is back on the job. We are grateful for every courtesy and kindness shown in the past few weeks, and we trust that from now on we may be of such service that we will be able to return at least a few of the favors shown to us personally, as well as the help given the paper in our absence.
The Puzzle Has Us All Puzzled – With the resumption of standard time at the South End of the Island, while the north end is still struggling along with daylight saving time confusion is becoming confounded. Ferries at the North End are operating on daylight saving time and those who patronize them must do likewise. Since its daily run starts in Tacoma the West Side has resumed standard time necessitating the adoption of standard time in the Island post offices. It is almost pitiful to see patrons of the various post offices wander in at the usual time, and to witness their blank expressions when they see no evidence of the expected morning or evening mail. At the Vashon post office on Monday morning, more than a few who had forgotten, or had failed to note the change in mail time felt sure that something tragic had befallen our faithful Mrs. Dowling when at 8:00 o’clock the door was still locked. There is little doubt that the majority will be glad when Seattle again falls back into step with the rest of the nation and we are again on standard time.
The Sanitary Barber shop has been moved into the Vashon Barber Shop, and three chairs have been installed.
Rosehilla, Magnolia, Manzanita and other beaches are making plans for an all-Island picnic in the near future, and the summer people decided it would be a gracious gesture to unite on an end-of-the-season picnic.
Electric Welder In Use At Burton – During the past week the Burton Garage has installed an electric welder which is arousing a great deal of enthusiasm on the part of those who have seen the satisfactory work done with it. This type of welder has been in common use in large manufacturing plants for some time, but it is the first time one has been used on the Island. In place of the gas flame, which requires preheating of the metal to be welded, an arc of low voltage and high amperage is employed. As soon as the current is turned on the metal begins to fuse. This makes possible the welding of cracks and breaks in shoulder blocks, and other parts of automobiles and other machinery without removal, making a quicker and cheaper job. By this method many broken and worn parts can be salvaged which would otherwise have to be replaced by new parts if removal from the machine were necessary.

August 31, 1933

Vashon Island Votes Wet at Polls Tuesday – In keeping with the trend in other parts of the state Vashon-Maury Island cast a majority of votes in favor of the repeal of the 18th amendment. The wet vote, however, was comparatively smaller here than in many other rural districts, the unofficial total for the nine precincts being 403 for repeal, and 313 against repeal. Practically all precincts reported much heavier voting than special elections usually bring out. In the Vashon precinct there were 151 ballots cast in comparison with 50 cast at the last port election. Despite instructions plainly printed on the ballot in heavy type and underscored to “vote for two persons,” and instructions given individually by members of the various election boards quite a few ballots were thrown out because voters failed to heed the instructions and voted for more than two delegates. W.D. Garvin, with a total of 275, received the heaviest vote for delegate against the repeal, while Edw. Cochrane, on the opposing side of the ticket received 279 votes.
To Patrons Of District 176 – Arrangements for the transportation of pupils living two miles or more from the Vashon grammar school have been made with Union U. The bus will travel over the same route as last year. Pupils in the south end of the district must take the bus at 5 minutes before 8 o’clock. They will be left at the building before the Heights trip is made. The directors are attempting to work out some scheme whereby pupils living less than two miles from the building can be transported at a small charge.
Fire Threatens Home – Attracted by an unusual noise in the front yard, Mrs. Anna McCrary discovered last Saturday afternoon that a grass fire originating in the gully below the house had crept up the hill and was threatening her home. The shrubbery was already beginning to burn before Mrs. McCrary could attach the hose and turn on the water. Conrad Anderson, seeing her predicament, came to the rescue. Other neighbors called, fought the fire farther down the hill and after hard work succeeded in extinguishing it.
Shoe Shop Moved – Mr. Adam Riefschnider has moved his shoe shop into the location formerly occupied by the Sanitary Barber Shop. It provides a light and conveniently located repair shop.
Received Appointment – H.B. Sovereign, a former employee in the News-Record office has been appointed deputy collector of internal revenues at Tacoma. He will take office in about six weeks. Mr. Sovereign, a lifetime Democrat, is a warm personal friend of Senator Dill. He is well qualified to fill a clerical position of this nature and it is gratifying to his friends that he has been awarded this appointment.
NRA Consumer Cards Now At Post Office – Failure on the part of any civic organization to undertake a drive has resulted in the responsibility of obtaining signatures to the NRA consumer card being left up to the Island postmasters. Cards and questionnaires may be had at any post office and from all indications the individual will have to take the initiative in the matter of signing both. Other communities are being instructed that the names both of those who sign these cards and those who fail to do so will be published either in the post office or in the local paper, and that the patriotism and loyalty of the community will be measured by the cooperation in the matter. The post office is not a part of the NRA plan, according to the statement of officials, so it should be the responsibility of the patrons to take the initiative and sign these cards rather than to wait until urged to do so by the postmaster.
Forest Fire Threatened Several Island Homes – Fanned into fury by a high wind a fire, which originated in Paradise Valley on Friday swept westward, threatening several homes in Lisabeula district for several days. So high were the flames that their roar could be heard for almost a mile. Calls for help brought out practically all of the men of the neighborhood when the fire threatened a house on the Lisabeula road occupied by a colored family. Just back of this house was a large tract of greasewood through which the fire ran with unbelievable rapidity. At first it did not seem humanly possible to save this home but the fire was controlled in the immediate vicinity, but burned on down the road and jumped across. When two wardens, with a tractor arrived from Seattle furrows were plowed around the Church ranch and backfiring was begun wherever practical. Several times it was thought that the fire was under control only to have it break out with renewed fury. Friday evening sparks driven by the wind again carried the fire back to the south side of the Lisabeula-Paradise Valley road and the heat was so intense that cars could not drive through. The destruction of the Hesson and Pierlucca houses seemed inevitable for a time as the fire roared on its way, but again the men fought it back. That there was no destruction of property seems miraculous. The fire continued on south to the Burton road as far as the Kalland corner. Small fires are still smoldering in the burned over area but no danger from these is expected. However everyone will feel much more comfortable after a good heavy downpour of rain.
Sidewalk Repaired – The sidewalk in front of the C.G. Kimmel Store has been repaired. There have been several accidents there, and it will be an improvement to have a safer walk.
Eight Hundred Go On Black Ball Excursion – From all accounts the eight hundred excursionists aboard the Chippewa last Saturday evening had an entertaining time. Reports vary as to the diversity of entertainment however, but there was not a dull moment in the entire evening. The palatial motorship cruised about the Sound for several hours returning to the Island at a late hour. Enroute the passengers enjoyed the good dance floor and excellent music furnished by a nine piece orchestra.
Fuller’s Super Service Installs New Gas Pumps – Two new electrically operated meter pumps for distributing gas have been installed at the Fuller Super Service. A clock-like gage shows the gallons. These pumps are the latest type and will add to the efficiency and convenience of the station, making it one of the most modern service stations in the Northwest.
The Mandolin and Guitar Club resumed their winter practice Monday night at the home of Mr. and Mrs. George Walls.

September 1933

September 7, 1933

Alumnae of Vashon College Met Sunday – On Sunday, September 3, forty-three friends and alumnae of Vashon College, gathered for another
reunion about the tables in the Masonic Hall. It was not hard for the former students assembled to turn back the pages of time and to recall and relive the days of Vashon College which began some three and a half decades ago. W.S. Bentley was the only Island resident present who had been a student in the college. Letters were read from absent ones, the one from Geo. Woodruff, a Los Angeles attorney, being particularly enjoyed, as in it he eulogized the influence exerted by the school through the life and example of its instructors. He spoke of the last illness of Prof. A.C. Jones, founder of the college and remarked on the power for good the life of the professor had been. The conclusion of the program was a farewell and benediction written by Prof. Jones a short time before his death to be delivered to the alumnae at their next meeting. Death has claimed also in the past year Co. F.E. Patterson, who was in charge of military instruction and training during the early days of the college. Especial tribute was paid to Mrs. Netta Jones, of Burton, for her example and influence on the early lives of the young people of the college. Among those present on Sunday were Mrs. Katherine Langridge Shelton, Tacoma, and Mrs. Frances Sylvester Huwald, Olympia, members of the first and second normal graduating classes of the college. Former students present on Sunday were Birdeen Freeman Vogelsang; Alice Langridge James, Tacoma; Adah McKenzie McCoy, Los Angeles; Amelia Frost Stewart and Dan C. Stewart, Tacoma; Walter Eckert, Grapeview; H.Hoke, Grapeview; John F. Hall, Tacoma; Margaret Winter Kelley, Seattle; Cap. W.E. Westerman, Tacoma; Orlando Brewer, Langley; Frances Sylvester Huwald, Olympia; Rauline Dahlstead Hoagland, Seattle; May Grover Lovegren, Bellingham; Phil Lovegren, Spokane; Abbie Woodruff Smith, Ohop; Marle Nesbitt Brewer, Montesano; Lillian McClellan Pohl, Kelso; Stella Masters Hess, Chas. Hess, Seattle; Fred Sutter, Tacoma; Arthur E. Griswold, Seattle and Del Gibbs, South Bend, retiring secretary of the association.
School Children To Pay Monthly Fares – It was announced this week by Mrs. Ella G. Covey, clerk of the high school board, that at a recent meeting several matters of interest and importance had been settled. In accordance with the state laws governing transportation of pupils, only the pupils two miles or over from the school will be furnished free transportation. A charge of $1.25 per month will be made for pupils living less than two miles from any building served by the high school buses. This amount must be paid in advance each month to the teacher who will furnish the driver with a list of the pupils privileged to ride.
Former Docktonites Renew Friendships – Old days and memories were relived on Monday when more than a hundred former and present Docktonites gathered for the annual Back-to-Dockton picnic. Prominent in all activities still is A.J. Stuckey, whose enterprise brought to Dockton the dry dock. In the early days it gave work to many not only in Dockton but from Tacoma and various parts of the Island. To Theo Berry, Dockton merchant, goes much credit for the publicity given the annual picnics. In the evening neighbors from all parts of the Island accepted the invitation of Dockton and participated in a dance that lasted until the wee small hours. Among those who came from off of the Island for the day’s festivities were Mr. and Mrs. P.T. Wilsie (Bessie Dean) and children of Seattle; John Manson, Tacoma; Mrs. J.F. Riehm, Mr. and Mrs. Larry Turnbull (Helen Riehm) of Olympia; Mrs. C.E. Jensen and daughter, Seattle; Mr. and Mrs. Pete Manson, Seattle; Mr. Wm. Anderson, Auburn; Mrs. Florence Frederickson Stanfield and her uncle, Oscar Stansfield on his first visit to Dockton in 30 years; Mrs. Mary E. Chandler, Seattle, with her daughter and son-in-law, Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Stuckey, who were married in Dockton; Mr. and Mrs. Alger Anderson, Puget Island; Mrs. Ellen Hagelof Hansen and her brother, Oscar of Seattle; Mrs. Effie Chandler Evans, Seattle; Mr. and Mrs. Chas.Frederickson, Seattle; Mr. and Mrs. Knute Anderson, Seattle; Capt. Westerman, Tacoma.
Japanese Bride and Groom Honored Sunday – The beautiful B.D. Mukai home on Sunday afternoon was the scene of a reception given in honor of Mr. and Mrs. Mukai’s son, Masahiro, and his bride. More than a hundred and fifty Japanese and American friends from the Island and Seattle expressed their congratulations and good wishes to the young people. It is estimated that at least two hundred Island friends, young and not so young, many of whom had known Masa from babyhood, partook of the hospitality of the Mukai family during the evening. It was a gracious expression of goodwill, accepted in the spirit it was offered, another proof of the harmonious relations between the American and Japanese residents of our Island.
Rifle Shoot Next Sunday – The Vashon Island Sportsmen’s Club will stage a big target shoot next Sunday, September 10th, according to E.R. NePage, President. Mr. NePage says that there has been a lot of interest, as well as considerable boasting as to the best rifle shot on the Island. In order to decide the matter, everyone enjoying the sport is invited to be present.
Schofield Property Sold – The 15 acre ranch and store of Mr. W.L. Shofield, opposite the high school was sold last week to Mr. and Mrs. H.S. Kenreigh, of Seattle, and Mr. and Mrs. Chas. E. Carey, of Shelton, who took possession immediately.

September 14, 1933

Sunday’s Rifle Shoot Results Surprising – The results of the target shoot last Sunday, staged by the Vashon Island Sportsmen’s Club, were varied and surprising. There was a good crowd out and everybody had a fine time. The champion of the Island proved to be S.N. Edson, with an average score of 33. The runner up, Amos Frombach, had a score of 18.5, while the third place was tied between Glenn Willers and E.R. NePage with a score of 26.5. It was observed that the wild cat hunters might be all right with a club or scatter gun, but with a rifle they didn’t show up quite so well. Al Roen, winning captain, made an average of 16.5, while Worley Zimmerman, opposing captain averaged an even 2. The ones who had done so much talking about their skill were conspicuous by their absence, evidently afraid of losing their reputation as rifle shots.
Trading Bureau Started To Aid Traders in Vashon – A convenient mart for exchanging articles has been opened by Mrs. E.H. Gorsuch for the convenience of the Island people. This is similar to exchange marts operating in many Washington towns. Any article that is not in use will be exchanged for something needed, such as a baby bed for a percolator, or a hoe for a rake.
Cove, Cedarhurst and Colvos Items – Lee Reeves and Melvin Paulson have gone to Yakima to bring back a truckload of fruits and vegetables.
Maury Notes – A lively contest sponsored by the Maury young people during the summer was brought to a fitting climax Saturday when the losing side entertained the winning side with a novel “Hobo hike.” The group, dressed as hobos, packs and all, hiked and rode to the Burton Assembly grounds, stopping for “hand outs” enroute. There was a picnic supper, eaten under difficulties, was a welcome finish to a strenuous but happy day.
Son Of Local Pastor Ordained Tuesday, Sept. 12 – Louis G. Randal, son of Rev. E.G. Randal of the First Presbyterian Church, Vashon was ordained in the ministry Tuesday afternoon at the Woodland Park Presbyterian Church in Seattle. He has recently accepted a call to the Kettle Falls Presbyterian Church.

September 21, 1933

Cat Hunters Entertained At Cove Last Friday Eve – The mighty cat hunters of the Vashon Island Sportsmen’s Club even are also mighty as entertainers. They put on a fried chicken dinner last Friday evening as the Cove Community Hall that could not be surpassed. Although the original bargain was that the contestants of the losing side were to entertain only their opponents an invitation was extended to the entire membership of the organization. Music was furnished by Amos Frombach and Glen Willers, on the accordian and guitar, while D. Bailey added some fine old time violin selections.
Howard Hansen On National Committee – Associated Press reports on last Wednesday brought the news that Howard Hansen, state supervisor of banking, had been appointed one of a national committee of thirteen supervisors to confer with federal authorities and cooperate in putting into affect the federal guaranty of bank deposits.
The owners and operators of the Collins gravel pit on Maury Island were over Sunday investigating the cost of putting the pit in operation again.
News-Record Will Be Closed Saturday – As Saturday is Washington Press Ass’n Day at the Western Washington Fair the News-Record office will be closed for the day.
Another “barn-raising” was held at the Heights Sunday when a crowd of twenty-one picnicked at the home of Mr. and Mrs. A.W. Wight. After the dinner, a garage was built for Mr. Wight, and then the crowd went down to Kimmel’s and started some work for him. This will be finished at a later picnic.
Three paintings of a local artist are on exhibit in the art department of the Puyallup fair. They are oil scenes of Mr. Rainier from Naches Pass, Blue Lake at Grand Coulee and the Ocean Beach at Mora. The paintings are the work of C.L. Garner.
The Met-Cro super service station is dazzling with its coat of white paint, spread by that master painter, Abe Abrahamsen.
The Exchange Mart, run by Mrs. Rose Gorsuch, is already performing useful service. Mrs. Gorsuch is broadminded, and will accept such things as furry rabbits to trade for wood, has a sewing machine in excellent condition, and wants to exchange a sanitary cot with mattress for other furniture such as rockers and tables.
Mr. Howard Wilsie has left the Island to take a position in a sawmill on the mainland.

September 28, 1933

Heating Plant Improved – Patrons report that since the recent renovation of the heating system at the Vashon Theatre there is a noticeable improvement, another big change has been made under the management of Burton Campbell.
News-Record Staff Changes October 1 – On October 1st a change in the management of the News-Record will go into effect. C.A. Wilder of Enumclaw will take over the position which has so ably been filled during the past three years by C.J. Denny. Mr. Denny has made many friends during the time he has been connected with the News-Record. His pleasing personality has made him popular with all who have come to know him during his connection with the paper.
An Appreciation – After September 30, my connection with the News-Record will be severed. During my three years on Vashon-Maury Island, I have valued the cooperation and courtesy of the business men of the Island. They have always been helpful, considerate and a constant aid in my business endeavors here. I leave their association with real regret and trust that in the future my business dealings will be with workers as honest, intelligent and fair as they. Chas. J. Denny.
Dockton – Boat Liberty Girl left here for San Pedro with Capt. M. Planchard, A.C. Stuckey and John Radin and crew on Sunday.
Tim Dunn of Portage is driving a late model Reo which is surprisingly simple to operate and the last word in completeness.
Dr. and Mrs. James G. Bennett and Wesley Allen attended the motorboat races at Green Lake Sunday. The race was for the Pacific Coast championship. The motorboats made about forty-five miles an hour, which is a terrific speed in the water.

October 1933
October 5, 1933

Ralph Steen Receives Federal Appointment As Federal Bank Examiner – On Thursday of last week Ralph Steen was informed in a telegram from the comptroller of currency, Washington, D.C. of his appointment as federal bank examiner under the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, with headquarters in Olympia. Mr. Steen is one of nine to receive appointments from the state.
Our Eighteenth Birthday – With this issue The Vashon Island News-Record completes its seventeenth and prepares to step into its eighteenth year.
Change Made In Style Of Make-Up In News-Record – A different style of make-up will be employed in The News-Record, beginning in this week’s issue. Instead of the local news being grouped on one page, items will be scattered throughout the paper. This is in keeping with the best newspaper practice, as being much fairer to advertisers. While it may prove annoying to the readers for a while they will in time come to like the plan better. It is hoped, too, that our contributors will like the new system so much better that someday someone will come in without the usual request, “Will you please put this on the front page?”
Dockton News – Captain L. Plancich and crew of the boat IKROS II left Monday morning for South Beach for fall fishing.
After having several months vacation, the street lights of Burton were back on the job October 1 to guide the weary traveler on his way at night.
Dr. J.W. Edmonds will be at home at Dilworth Point every Saturday evening during October, equipped to test your eyes.

October 12, 1933

Local Japanese Garden Wins Praise Of Note in Nation-Wide Publication – An article highlighting the B.D. Mukai gardens was published in a recent issue of The Christian Science Monitor, which The News-Record deems it a pleasure to reproduce for its Island readers. The article was turned in by Mrs. John Roberts.
Camulos Club To Meet Friday, October 13 At Island Club House
Auxiliary Gives First Public Party of Year
Crop Surplus to be Given for Relief Help
Vashon Teachers Given Reception Thursday, Oct. 5
You Just Can’t Be Unlucky This Friday – Friday, the Thirteenth, may be unlucky for some, but it is certain that the evening of next Friday will be lucky for every person, young or old, who is looking for a good time. On that date the Vashon Island Commercial Club will sponsor a dance in the high school gymnasium. There will be entertainment a-plenty. There will be square dances, circle dances and every variety of modern dance.
Mrs. Ward Honored With Shower Saturday Afternoon
Notice to autoists! – You are requested to take notice and comply with the State Highway signs, especially between Judd Creed and Burton Dock. This is a school zone. Our justice of the peace and highway patrol have warned several of late, and from now on some action will be taken with the careless ones. It will be just too bad, for it costs money to call on the judge.
Dr. F.H. Grandy has moved his office to his residence the first house back of the Drug Store. Miss Ada Webster who is occupying the house for the winter, will be there to receive phone calls.
Cove, Cedarhurst and Colvos Items – A fire that would have consumed the house and its contents, broke out in the beach home of Mrs. Louie Anderson one day last week, but was extinguished by the quick work of Lloyd Marsh, Simon Edwards and Mr. Siveningsen, who used a chemical fire extinguisher. No damage was reported.
Cove, Cedarhurst and Colvos Items – Mrs. Covington had 20 feet of Pom Pom dahlias in the Floral hall at the Puyallup Fair.
Kenneth Dowling has accepted a position as operator in a community theatre in Seattle. His place at the Vashon Theatre is being filled by his understudy, Buster Clark.
Maury Notes – Much excitement was caused Monday when the palatial home of Herbert Carroll at Fernheath caught fire. Prompt action on the part of neighbors, summoned by our telephone operator, and the help of the light company crew, kept the damage to the rear of the house, limiting it to the kitchen, pantry, nook and one bedroom.

October 19, 1933

Local Goodwill Organization in Good Condition – Winter will not catch inmates of the Exchange Club Goodwill Farm unprepared as to food, fuel or shelter.
D.A.R. Chapter Holds Meeting October 7
Poultry Diseases Exact Heavy Toll
Youngster Suffers Severe Injury While At Play – On Sunday Las Bacchus suffered a painful injury. He was playing football with a group of youngsters in front of the News-Record office. The ball was kicked, and as Lad tried to pick it up he ran into the fire hydrant. Some projection struck the side of his nose next to the cheek and completely punctured it. At first it was thought the nose was broken, but such was not the case. Several stitches were required to close the cut. The youngster seems to have an affinity for suffering and accidents.
Chapter To Celebrate Tenth Anniversary – Invitations have been issued for a dinner and dance to be given by members of Robert Burns Chapter next Saturday evening at the Masonic Temple in celebration of the tenth birthday of the organization.
Many Scatter Shot Sunday; Deppman High Man at Meet – A trap shoot was staged at Louis Deppman’s ranch south of Vashon. Some really fine exhibitions of shooting made the event a particularly exciting one. Louis Deppman was high man with a score of 23 out of 25. George Davis and Garner Kimmel tied for second place with scores of 21, and Dick Fuller and Al Roen for third, with scores of 19. There were about thirty contestants. The next meeting of the Sportsmen’s Club will be held at the News-Record office Friday evening, October 20. There are several matters of particular importance to be discussed and it is urged that all members possible be present for this meeting. Don’t forget to invite the new members. It is rumored that there are to be two 8-round boxing matches after adjournment of the meeting. Wives of members of the club are asked to be particularly tolerant during this time of year. If friend husband stands looking into space, he is seeing in mind’s eye a flock of mallards coming in, the dog at point or the ridge where the big buck runs. He may even be seeing the little cottontail rabbit. This is the time of year when to the normal man the call of the outdoors becomes a part of his religion.
Last Appeal Sent Out From Olympia For Occupation Tax
Lloyd Spence Tells of Island Advantages in Radio Address – The following article is the verbatim radio speech given recently by Lloyd Spence, head of the Lloyd Spence Advertising Agency, Seattle. It not only gave some good publicity to the Island, but conveyed some interesting and flattering information to the world: “If you look at the map of Puget Sound, midway between the cities of Seattle and Tacoma, sedately, comfortably and modestly occupying an area of 23,000 acres, 14 miles long and seven miles wide. Vashon Island people call it The Pearl of Puget Sound. It was discovered May 29, 1792 , by Captain George Vancouver, the British navigator, and was named for his friend, Captain James Vashon, an officer in His Majesty’s Navy. On the same day Captain Vancouver named Puget Sound for his friend and companion, Lieutenant Peter Puget. Vashon Island is a mecca for the rancher, with his berries, chickens, flowers, and other products. It is a mecca for the city business men of Seattle and Tacoma, who commute daily to the Island from these cities and enjoy all the comforts of the county and all the conveniences of the city. From either side of the Island, out over the water, gorgeous pictures can be had of our snow-clad mountains. In the early days Vashon was a thickly wooded island with great forests of standing timber. Today, much of it has been cleared away, and where once majestic firs reared their heads to the heavens, wide clearances have been made, and on them are dotted beautiful farms and summer homes. The Island’s productive soil makes possible prolific crops of strawberries, loganberries, gooseberries, currants, with many varieties of apples, pears, cherries and other fruits. The commercial growing of lily bulbs on Vashon is an industry of increasing importance and hundreds of thousands of bulbs are shipped annually from Vashon to all parts of the United States. The Vashon Island Lily Association holds an exhibition of its beautiful flowers every summer and attracts national notice and visitors from far and near. The census taker credits the Island hens with 39,312,000 eggs last year, or 219 carloads, and the Island population of chickens as over 200,000. The Island’s extensive shoreline finds place for many thriving trading centers with a well-paved road system joining all parts. The union high school serves as a unifying force in the educational, economic and social life of the Island and has an enrollment of two hundred fifteen pupils and a staff of ten teachers. It occupies a new and modern building erected on a sightly twenty-acre tract near the center of the Island. Vashon also boasts a fine grade school system. Five modern and comfortable school vans, owned by the district, afford free transportation for all pupils who live at a distance from the school. The Island has a bank, motion picture theatre, a fine golf course, auto freight service, electric lights, telephones, and every convenience and service in the set-up of a modern community. The Exchange Club of Seattle sponsors the Goodwill Industry of Seattle Farm on the Island. It occupies 50 acres and serves as a summer home for indigent mothers with their children. Camp Sealth of the Campfire Girls of Seattle, also is located on Vashon. It is a beautifully situated camp on the western shore near the south end of the Island and is visited by numerous groups of girls during the summer months. Frequent ferry service can be had from Seattle to Vashon, and if, at the approach of the winter months, you are wondering what sort of a sightseeing tour your might take, put in a day of motoring and sightseeing on one of the truly scenic spots of Puget Sound.”
Sunshine Club To Enjoy Social Afternoon Friday
Honor Worthy Matron With Dinner Party – Mrs. Grace Petersen, worthy matron of Island Chapter No. 170, O.E.S., was honor guest at an enjoyable dinner party at the Falcon’s Nest Sunday evening. Dancing was enjoyed until a late hours.
Many Applications Flood Land Bank
Magnus Petersen And Plymouth Orchestra In Joint Concert – At popular prices the student body is offering to Island music lovers an opportunity to hear Magnus Petersen who ranks as one of the outstanding vocal artists of the Northwest, and the Plymouth Junior Symphony Orchestra, Paul Cronenberger, leader, and Clay Harrison, concert master.
On Thursday the Eastern Star Social Club was entertained at the Pettelle home. The hostesses were Mrs. Paul Pettelle, Mrs. Elmer Stone, Mrs. J.G. Bennett and Mrs. A.D. Wight.
Center News – Mr. Therkelsen had the misfortune of losing a fine young cow last week.
Mrs. C.A. Renouf and Mabel Matthews received $90 credit vouchers on Monday from a Seattle automobile company, prizes in a slogan contest.
High School Notes – Senior Class – A number of interesting essays on “How to Study” were written Friday by the senior English class. An unusual amount of knowledge on this subject was displayed, much to Mrs. Keyes surprise. If only some of this knowledge were handed down to the under-classmen what a fine study hall Vashon Hi would have.
High School News – Office News – The high school has just received a consignment of booklets for the study of modern problems. These booklets will serve as a basis for a special work in the social science classes. Some of the engaging titles of these booklets are: “Opportunities for Work in the Machine Age,” “Inflation,” “The Gold Standard,” “International Co-operation.”
Cove, Cedarhurst and Colvos Items – Where there is a will there is a way! – Five members of the Cove Young People’s Society en route to Harper had the misfortune to miss the ferry their comrades were on. So they rented a row-boat and rowed across the Sound just in time to join their friends at the church. George Fosmoch and Barton Johansen wielded the oars, and Laura Johansen, Valberg and Eva Sarvold were the passengers.
Old Trees Go – Two trees in front of the News-Record were recently cut down. Rings on the stump of the largest, a cherry tree, showed it to be at least fifty years old. The other, an apricot, must have been equally old. Practically all of the fruit trees in the neighboring yards were planted at the same time as the trees just cut down, and constituted the orchard of the Livesley homestead which extended from the bank corner to the Cove road and west from the pavement to the first road beyond. Like his trees, Mr. Livesley was sturdy, living to more than 90 years of age, and in possession of his faculties to the last. At the time of his death he was engaged in building a house in West Seattle, having found life at the Veterans’ Home at Retsil too sedentary. It does not take much imagination to envision the changes that have been wrought in the Island since the old trees were planted by Mr. Livesley, and it is a sad sight to see them one by one disappearing.
Executive Committee To Have Meeting – There will be a meeting of the executive committee of the Commercial Club at the Sweet Shop Thursday evening of next week. Following the usual seven o’clock dinner there will be a business meeting.

October 26, 1933

Robert Burns Chapter Of Royal Arch Masons Celebrates Birthday
Fortunes For Books – It is rarely that one is offered a fortune for a book, but for one day only Island residents will have the opportunity of obtaining a fortune for a book. The date is November 3. The place is the Corbet home at Burton. The book may be any one from your library that has outlived its usefulness yet might be donated to the Burton Library, which is sadly in need of books to replace those worn out and lost during the past year. Arrangements have been made with several Tacoma ladies, who are much in demand at various club and lodge functions by reason of their fortune telling cleverness. They will be present at a silver tea, which the Vashon Women’s Club is sponsoring at the Corbet home on November 3. Those wishing to delve into their future can have their fortune told in return for a book, which can be added to the Burton Library. If one has no book a fortune can be bought with silver.
Rebekah Lodge to Hold Annual Bazaar
Magnus Peterson Unable To Appear – A small but appreciative audience greeted the Plymouth Junior Symphony Orchestra last Friday evening at the high school and listened to a well-presented and interesting program of modern and classical music. The announcement that Magnus Peterson had been taken ill and was unable to appear was a disappointment to all. Mr. Peterson sent word that he would sing at the next entertainment given by the high school.

November 1933
November 2, 1933

Election of Officers Will Be Held at Commercial Club Meet Next Tuesday Night
Rebekah Bazaar A Solution for Gift Problems
Island Commandery To Give Annual Ball Dec. 2
Island Boy Kicks Stanford To Defeat In Saturday Game At U.W. Stadium – Island friends were thrilled last Saturday to learn that it was our own Bill Smith, son of Mrs. Effie Smith, of Portage, who turned the game between Washington and Stanford into victory for the former.
High School Mixer Will Be Held Friday Eve; Many on Card – On Friday evening the people of Vashon Island will be given the opportunity of seeing a really remarkable exhibition of athletic and aerobatic stunts at the annual Boys’ Club mixer.
An Editorial – Demonstrate Spirit Of Co-operation – On Wednesday morning youngsters attending Vashon grammar school and living along the regular bus lines began riding to school, regardless of whether or not they lived within the prescribed two-mile limit.
Silver Tea To Be Given Friday For Benefit of Burton Library at Corbet’s
Shane Bros. Buy New Nursery Stock – Leaving here Friday afternoon the two Shane brothers, Art and Charles, made a flying trip to Oregon, visiting nurseries at Portland, Salem, Corvallis, Gervais and other places enroute. They returned home on the early boat Sunday morning. At Corvallis they purchased from the Schmidt nurseries 300 Turkish filbert roots for grafting. These trees are of the newest and finest varieties and often reach 30 feet in height instead of bushing out, as does the ordinary filbert tree. At Gervais they visited the Brixy nursery. Mr. Brixy, owner, has developed the “Brixnut,” a type of filbert which is a leader of its kind for size and growth. It brings two cents more per pound than do the other older varieties. Mr. Birxy is also the propagator of the largest walnut now grown. These nuts, with as soft a shell as the franquettes, grow to 5 ½ to 6 ¼ inches in circumference. The meat is firm and white. There are only six of these trees in existence and the Shanes purchased five of them to bring back to their farm at Center. They also brought back several other trees of outstanding varieties and merit for propagation in their own orchards, which now consist of more than thirty varieties of nut trees a few of which are coming into bearing this fall.
Young People Redecorate Cove Methodist Church
The south side of the Weiss store is being finished in waterproof stucco to prevent leaking through the brick wall.
Preliminary Meeting Held For Organizing of Local Democratic Association
Vashon P.T.A. Executive Committee Hold Meeting To Discuss Year’s Budget
Masons Will Honor Members Who Have Been Masons 50 Years – The honor guests will be Judge C.E. Claypool and R.W.F. Martin who are completing a half century in the Masonic Lodge.
Presbyterian Auxiliary Meeting Thursday
Portage Orthopedic Auxiliary To Meet
Sunshine Club To Meet
Forum – For Better Roads – One often hears the remark “These roads of the Island are the worst I ever traveled over. Nowhere in the state are there roads as rotten as on Vashon Island.” They may not be quite as bad as this, but we will admit they are bad enough at times. Now every automobile driver is more or less responsible for this condition: by not using a little judgment in driving on our roads. In the first place, our roads were built for horse and wagon roads and for that purpose are mighty fine roads; but since the coming of the automobile, which requires a wider and better road-bed, our roads are out of date. Our county commissioners are doing all they can to change them to auto roads with what money they have to work with on county roads. We have approximately 165 miles of gravel roads on the Island and to keep them in good shape, with the small amount of machinery and crew; is an utter impossibility. The roads should be gone over with the scraper once a week. If the crew gets over once a month, they are lucky. So, by the time they are ready to start over again, the roads are full of chuck holes and ridges resembling a wash board. Being as our roads are only what is commonly called “one-way roads,” every auto driver takes the center of the road until he meets a car coming in the opposite direction, then he has to slow down and turn out to the side of the road, and he is lucky if he does not skid off the road on account of the soft shoulder. If every driver would keep edging over a little to the right side of the road, it would not be long before it would be packed down hard the full width instead of just in the center of the road, where all drive at the present time. The heavy traffic would be distributed over the road instead of in the center, and our roads would keep in better shape longer, and save the wear and tear on tires and the rest of the car and make riding more comfortable. It is not necessary to drive too close to the edge, as that would be dangerous, but just keep following the right-hand track, and if all would do so, our roads would be better and safer, less expense, and less work to keep up. Also, speeding around our sharp curves throws the dust and gravel out and does damage to the road. No doubt, this is thoughtlessness on the part of drivers to hug the center of the road. Just a word about our truck drivers – I have noticed that they keep to the edge of the road as much as possible; there is some complaint that they hog the road with their big trucks. I personally watched them and followed them and find that they are a careful lot of drivers and always give more of the road than is necessary, and in time of trouble are always willing to help you. If this idea looks feasible to you drivers, just try this keeping to the right as far as possible, and in a short time notice how much better our roads will be. Thank you all, J.F. Shaw.
Reward – The Vashon Sportsmen’s Club will pay a reward to the person or persons giving information leading to the arrest of several persons who have wantonly destroyed property during the past few days of the hunting season. Gates have been left open, fences broken down, signs destroyed, chickens killed. If you men who like to hunt expect any land to hunt on, please help us stop this wanton destruction by helping us apprehend the culprits. E.R. NePage, Pres.
Dockton Ladies Aid Meets Last Wednesday
Burton News Items – Norman Edson has plans and all material to build a new up-to-date garage to house a fliver. Watch the paper for the announcement of the laying of the corner stone, Mr. Edson will be the principal speaker of the occasion.
Burton News Items – Mr. Wiltsie paid the Island a visit last week and assured us that as soon as matters could be straightened out with the Welfare Board that they soon would have some men working on the Burton to Shawnee road, widening it out and putting it in a better condition for the winter.
Burton News Items – W.H. Ingalls has been repairing his limousine since it refused to run one day last week when coming up the hill at Burton Heights with a load of passengers. Mr. Ingalls has an unusual gentle disposition and steady nerves while laboring with his machine. He says there must not be two wrecks at the same time.

November 9, 1933

Island Demo Group Forms Local Club – Democratic precinct committeemen of Vashon Island met at the home of R.E. Stafford at Cove Saturday evening at 8 o’clock. A constitution and by-laws were adopted and the following temporary officers were elected to serve until a general meeting shall be called; R.E. Stafford, president; C. Saunders, vice-president; and Edwina Baskin, secretary-treasurer.
Quartermaster May Get Lobster Beds – For the past four months government inspectors have been studying the possibilities of Quartermaster Harbor for the planting of lobster beds. Their reports and findings were revealed in Burton Monday evening. The project is to condemn all tide lands, and a dam put across the assembly points, screened in, and all fish removed. This will give employment to one or two hundred men. After thorough investigation, it was reported that this back bay is one of the ideal locations of the United States for the raising of lobsters. Two or three sites have been selected for the necessary buildings, such as sheds and canneries. It will take several carloads of seed to start the beds. The expenditures are estimated in the neighborhood of $350,000 to $500,000. If the project goes through, it will not only provide steady employment for a number of Island men, but also be a big advertisement for Vashon Island.
Cotton Frocks Only, Permissible At Dance – Members and friends of Island Chapter No. 170, O.E.S. are looking forward to the cotton dance to be given Friday evening, November 17, at Bayview Pavilion.
Kloshe Tillicum Club Celebrates Birthday – On October 28 the Kloshe Tillicum Club members and their husbands met at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Godfrey to celebrate the twenty-first birthday anniversary of the club. Three of the original members were present, Mesdames Alice Godfrey, Matilda Nelson and Julia Sherman, the latter being the club’s first vice-president. Mrs. Anna Swanson, the fourth member, was absent, being in California.
State Will Prosecute Road Sign Disturbers – Captain Harry Snider spent Wednesday on the Island investigating the destruction of road signs which occurred Hallowe’en. The signs which were destroyed were indirectly the property of the state and for this reason the prosecution will be up to state officials. Unless the signs are restored the matter will be pursued until the guilty persons are punished.
Bacchus And Harmeling Enter Pork Raising Field – Gus Bacchus and Ed Harmeling have gone into the pig business. Gus was delivering a load of trees for Ed at Sequim, when they passed a bunch of squealers, labeled bargain prices. After disposing of the trees, there was room on the truck for livestock, so they invested and are planning to enter the pork market this winter.
Local D.A.R. Requests Help To Get Needs
Silver Tea Nets Books And Silver – From every angle the silver tea given at the Jackson Corbet home last Friday was a complete success. The Burton library benefited to the extent of 50 additional volumes and $11.50 for the purchase of new books.
Austie’s Place Will Be Opened Next Saturday – Filling a long-felt want, Vashon is to have a real hamburger stand the sort that is found in all well-regulated towns. Austie’s Place will open Saturday noon one door south of the pool hall in the Deppman building. It will be operated by Austin and Mabel Dennis, one of the Island’s most popular young couples, neither of whom need any introduction. Austie is one of our youngsters who has grown up on the Island, as has Mabel, one of the best housekeepers in the community noted for excellent ones.
Bennett Re-Elected to Serve As Commercial Club President; Group Will Control Welfare – Report of Dr. Bennett showed that the work of the club had been quite intensive this past year. There were six open meetings and nine executive sessions held. Mr. Bennett told of the plantings of 2,000 jack pine trees along the main highway, and expressed the desire that the club would be able to resume this planting schedule for the coming year by alternating the pines with hawthorn trees. F.J. Shattuck, chairman of the welfare committee, reported on the work done along this line. He reported that the new policy of the welfare agencies of the county provided for no work program in connection with relief. Various members expressed their opinion along this line and a vote was finally taken, the result of which showed definitely that the majority favored a policy of “no work, no relief.” Just what plan is to be carried out remains to be seen and is in the hands of the same welfare committee as last year.
Cove, Cedarhurst and Colvos Items – The P.T.A. of Columbia School has started serving hot lunches at the school every day. The soup is furnished free and prepared by the mothers of the pupils, who each take one day a month to prepare it.
Thomas Clausen, Old-Time Resident, Passes In Seattle
Burton News Items – There were just as many careless drivers thirty years ago but the horses had more sense.
The Burton Improvement Club held its regular monthly meeting last Thursday evening. A basket lunch was served, after which the regular business meeting took place. All committees reported on the good work which had been done. Then the meeting was turned over to Mrs. Preston, who is chairman of the social committee. Mr. Paulhamus gave a talk and explained the workings of the NRA in regard to the retail trade. Mr. Edson followed with an interesting talk on art, the beauties of outdoor art, as well as artistic photography and concluded his speech with his experiences before the microphone, with sea captains and young ladies of the Gay Nineties.
Snow White Owl, Native Of Greensland, Shot At Dockton – A pure white snow own, a native of Greenland, was shot by Arnold Halsen, of Dockton. The bird measured sixty inches in wing spread. It was sitting on the bar roof, and Arnold made a lucky shot and got it. He is having it stuffed and mounted, as the species is extremely rare on this continent, and will make a valuable addition to a collection.
Miss Stanley Entertains – Miss Marjorie Stanley entertained Mrs. Edward Harmeling and Miss Verona Armbruster at an informal tea Thursday. Book reviews in the New York Times were discussed, and the Stanley library checked for antique volumes of value to collectors.
Alitak Being Remodeled – The boat, Alitak, owned by L. Danielsen and A Petersen, of Dockton, is being remodeled in a Seattle shipyard. The thirty horsepower gas engine is being taken out, and will be replaced by a forty-two horsepower diesel engine. The boat will be put in shape for hauling freight to Alaska during the season when fishing is closed.

November 16, 1933

Banquet For Fathers, Sons To be Nov. 23
Home Loan Adjuster On Island Monday
Announce Engagement Of Pauline Tanaka
Seattle’s Finest Drill Team Coming To Island December 2
Burton Community Church to Present Program Friday Eve
Lutheran Free Church To Hold Meetings
Young People’s Bible Conference Next Sunday
Veterans Of Foreign Wars To Hold Installation Of Officers November 16
Eastern Star Dance At Bayview Pavilion To Be Friday Night – Gingham frocks and overalls will be the correct garb for the informal dance next Friday evening.
To Form Political Economy Class – All interested in forming a class for the study of political economy are asked to get in touch with F.M. Robertson or Rodney Ackley at the high school.
Services To Be Resumes At Dockton Church – The church has been closed since the summer holidays and is opening again to offer services to those who are friends or members of the church.
Car Overturns In Loose Gravel At Center – Mrs. Kathran Hansen suffered a painfully injured back last Wednesday when her car overturned south of Center. Mrs. Hansen was on her way to the golf course. She was driving at a moderate rate of speed but in attempting to cross to the other side of the road to avoid the mud she turned both wheels into a ridge of loose gravel left by the road scraper. As the car turned over the door jammed and in order to extricate herself it was necessary for her to break the glass and to pull herself out which was a rather painful procedure, injured as she was. Very little damage was done to the car which when turned upright again was driven to Vashon on its own power.
Commercial Club Group Meets With County Heads And Relief Body – A committee from the Vashon Island Commercial Club consisting of J.G. Bennett, Charles VanOlinda, Alex Stewart, Norman Edson, F.J. Shattuck, Coy Meredith, K.K. Prigg, R.W.F. Martin, Charles England and J.H. Gabourel met with the county commissioners on Tuesday and received the verification of a proposed welfare program which had been offered by the King county welfare department. The proposition was that a certain amount would be furnished from state funds for a work relief program provided the county would match it with a like amount. This the commissioners agreed to do. The program will include the completion of the Burton-Shawnee road and other improvements. The work will be handled under the present road set-up and supervised by a man chosen by the welfare department. The regular scale will be paid in cash.
Dockton News – J. Martinolich killed a large white Alaska owl in his shipyard that measured 48 inches from tip to tip.
The Cronander house has been greatly modernized by the addition of an attractive entrance.

November 23, 1933

Two Vashon Island Boat Services Are Scheduled to Cease Operations Soon
Sportsmen to Have Venison Supper on Saturday Evening
Federal Employment Agent Here Today
Election Of Officers For Island Chapter December 6
Island Commandery Will Hold Annual Ball December 2
P.T.A. Holds Program For All Island Groups; Magnus Petersen Sang

November 30, 1933

Island Progressive Democratic Club to Hold Organization Meeting Tuesday
Veterans Ask For Discarded Toys – The local post of the Veterans of Foreign Wars are making a drive for old toys, dolls or playthings which can be repaired or are in good condition. These are to be distributed to children of needy families on the Island so that no child may be disappointed at Christmas.
Dedication Services Sunday, December 10 – The addition to the Vashon Methodist church, providing several new class rooms, will be completed before the end of next week.
100 Register Friday On Federal Works Program for Aid – About 100 men registered last Friday at Vashon for federal employment, according to the report of the local welfare office. Miss Agnes Hoffman, representative of the board handling this work, reported that only a small percentage of those registering were now on relief.
Veterans to Sponsor All-Island Christmas Treats for Children – The community Christmas tree fund dance will be held at the Island Club December 16. Tickets will be on sale during the next week and are available from any member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, The News-Record office and several stores in the various communities on Vashon-Maury Island. Receipts from this dance will be used to make the Islands’ first Community Christmas Tree Party a success, and to bring happiness to all of its children.
Officer To Be Here Regularly – After this week Capt. Harry Snider will be in The News-Record office every Thursday until further notice between the hours of 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. unless unavoidably detained. This is for the benefit of those who have not yet completed examination for driver’s license and certificate of ownership.
November 27 Was Blue Monday For Some At School – November 27, Blue Monday, was also an unfortunate one for some of the Burton students, as the bus ran out of gas near the grammar school. Some lucky fellows got a ride with Mr. McElvain, but he also ran out of gas. Mr. Robertson running back over the route to find the missing bus, picked up some of the students. After finding the stranded bus he headed for school, found Mr. McElvain and his car full of students, and pushed them the remainder of the way to school.
Vashon Island Commandery Will Hold Second Annual Ball on Saturday Evening
Smith And Phelan To Be Honor Guests – Plans are being formulated, it was announced late yesterday, for an all-Island banquet at which Bill Smith, University football star, of Portage, and Coach Phelan, would be the honor guests.
Meeting of Interest Held Tuesday Eve With Ferry Group – At a well-attended meeting between officials of the Kitsap County Transportation Company and citizens of Vashon-Maury Island various phases of the transportation problems were aired and discussed at length Tuesday evening. The proposal of the company to subsidize a bus running directly from Vashon Heights into the shopping district of Seattle, and to discontinue the operation of the Verona was met with opposition by a group of regular commuters from the Island and from Harper. A suggestion was made that several ferry trips a day into Marion street would be highly acceptable to the citizens of the Island, but it was also pointed out that this would curtail the service to Fauntleroy and eliminate the 8 o’clock boat, the most popular morning trip. At the conclusion of the meeting a ballot was taken on the question of whether those present favored a bus or the continuation of the service on the Verona as at present. The result was 43 in favor of the present plan and 76 favoring the bus proposition. This vote was merely for an expression of the sentiment of those present and was unofficial as far as the final outcome.
Mrs. L.C. Beall, Jr. To Be Burried Friday
Cove, Cedarhurst and Colvos Items – A beautiful new painting behind the alter in the Cove Methodist church was dedicated in a service held Sunday morning.
George J. Smith has accepted the position of third officer on “Swift Sure,” government lightship stationed off the Straights of Juan de Fuca.
Peter Clausen Passes Away – The sudden death on last Thursday afternoon, November 23, of Peter Clausen, came as the culmination of a long illness. Mr. Clausen, 65 years of age, had lived on Vashon Island for fifteen years. He enjoyed the high regard of all who knew him.

December 1933
December 7, 1933

Teachers Club Of Island To Sponsor Christmas Program December 21 – Under the auspices of the Teachers’ Club, all the Island schools will participate in a Christmas program to be given at the high school on Thursday evening, December 21. Miss Mildred Bell and Mrs. Doebbler who have charge of the program have sent the carols to the various schools this week and preparations are under way to make this all-Island school program one to be remembered.
Bobbie Harmeling Badly Burned Sunday Afternoon – While playing on the floor last Sunday afternoon Bobbie Harmeling knocked a kettle of boiling water off the stove. It poured over his right side from his ear to his hip, burning him badly. Dr. McMurray was called and the child was taken care of so quickly that in all probability no serious scars will result, but in the meantime he is suffering frightfully and frequent sedatives are necessary.
Many Local Men to Be Given Work by New Work Program – On Monday morning fifteen Island men went to work, the first contingent of the sixty who will be at work by January 1. This is the beginning of a number of projects that will be worked out under the new state and federal program. Of the men put to work, 50 percent are to be chosen from those on relief, and 50 percent, half of them ex-servicemen, from among the others who have registered under the Federal Registration program. All local road projects must be approved by the county commissioners, and will be under the supervision of C.M. Rhulen, local supervisor. The crew now at work will be kept steadily at work and can be discharged only for agitation or refusal to work. They will be paid 50 cents an hour for a six-hour day. Any man discharged will be permanently off of employment or relief lists. L.P. Black, of Vashon Heights, has been appointed foreman of the crew.
Cronander Elected To Head Progressive Council for Year – At a meeting of the Island Progressive Democratic Club held at the Island Club Tuesday evening of this week, H.C. Cronander was elected president of the permanent organization; H.A Nelson, vice-president; John Steen, secretary, and Chester Sawyer, treasurer. The purpose of this organization is to consolidate and unify the followers of Thomas Jefferson, and the discussion of various ways and means to accomplish this end resulted in a decidedly enthusiastic meeting.
Don Castle Cuts Hand While Chopping Wood – While chopping wood last Saturday Don Castle cut the fourth and fifth fingers of his left hand so badly that it is not yet certain whether the fifth finger can be saved. When taken to Dr. McMurray the boy’s finger was stitched into place, the operation taking about two hours.
Petition For New Road – A petition is being circulated for an extension of the Weiss-Thompson road from the present terminal, down to the beach back of the Thompson and Sunde cottages on West Beach.
Returned Missionary Tells of Experience While in the Orient – Miss Rosabelle Steward, who lately returned from Ningpao, China, has been visiting her brother and sister-in-law, Mr. and Mrs. Alex Stewart, at Vashon Heights. Miss Stewart, who has served in all 13 years in the missionary work in various parts of China, has definitely returned to America to stay. When asked concerning the altercation between Pearl Buck and the church she was serving in China, Miss Stewart stated that while Mrs. Buck had returned to China, she had severed her connections with the missionary work, though living with her husband, who is still in the work. Miss Steward said in regard to Mrs. Buck’s “Good Earth”, that she and others in the work felt that the story was not a true picture of conditions in China, but that the author had taken isolated instances with which she had come in contact.
Mrs. Lewis C. Beall, Jr., Long And Island Resident, Passes on Nov. 28; Funeral Was Friday
Junior Play Cast Chosen For “Here Comes Patricia” – After a strenuous week of try-outs the cast for the junior play, “Here Comes Patricia,” has been selected. It follows: Patricia Grayson, Hildur Agren; Elsie Crowder, Rosalie Therkelson; Mrs. Smith-Porter, Charlotte Canfield; Angelina Knoop, Lorna Urquhart; Minnie Knoop, Betty Calloway; Mrs. Carrol, Eleanor Larson; Jimmy Clark, David Keyes; Elbert Hastings, Bill Poage; Tim Hopper, Hugh Little; Mr. Adam Wade, Charles Kimball; Bud Flannigan, Ruthyen Martindale.
Then It Rained – Ed Ramquist, co-operative government weather observer, reports that from 8 o’clock Monday morning until 8 o’clock Wednesday morning there was a rainfall of 3.33 inches, and from 8 o’clock Tuesday morning until 8 o’clock Wednesday morning, 2.2 inches fell. Passengers on the Verona Tuesday evening were too busy keeping dry to make more than casual observations, but they report that a considerable number of inches of the above mentioned downpour fell in the other end of the deck from the one they were huddled in.
Our sheriff, Mr. Shattuck, has been doing some good detective work of late, having rounded up eight of the parties who destroyed our road signs, paper and mailboxes last Hallowe’en. There are several more to be brought in. The cases are now pending in Justice Alex Smith’s court.
The Burton post office is keeping up-to-date. The outside has been repainted and the partitions inside have been changed around, which gives considerable more work room to handle the ever-increasing mail coming to Burton. From present indications this will be the largest Christmas rush in many years.
Statement About The Red Cross Flour For Island – In regard to the Red Cross flour distributed on Vashon Island, I would like to say there has been over 50,000 pounds distributed here, and England and Petersen’s Vashon Auto Freight Co. have hauled all this flour and stored it in their plant till it could be delivered, never charging one cent for their work. If the government puts out more flour we will get our share. We are trying to get some of the flour which was lost and found later, but so far have not been able to do so. Signed: W.D. Garvin
The Cronander house, with its new porch and very modern shake covering, is being converted into an attractive residence.

December 14, 1933

Slides Wreak Much Damage To Properties On Islands – House, Garage Are Destroyed By Sliding Clay – While Vashon Island is still well above the high water mark, it has not escaped the effect of the torrents of rain that have fallen in the past week and a number of bad slides have resulted. On Sunday a huge section of the hill back of the old Des Moines ferry dock slid down toward the bay blocking the Portage road. A part of the earth slid into the platform just to the north of the old Allison garage, breaking and weakening the structure. The road was cleared by the regular road crew and was made usable, but later on it was blocked again by another slide. A third slide late Sunday night just south of the first one started on its course toward the bay. In its path was the old garage, owned by Charles VanOlinda. The building was pushed ahead of the earth and finally toppled over into the water. It was a total wreck with no possibility of salvage. The destruction of the Allison garage marks the removal of another landmark and makes those who have lived here for some time realize just what changes have taken place in the progress of the Island in the past few years. The building was put up when the Portage-Des Moines ferry began operation in 1916, and housed a soft drink place that did a brisk business, as well as the busiest garage on the Island. When the Portage ferry was abandoned, business began to wane and the garage was closed about four years ago and has been vacant ever since. Mr. Van Olinda, owner of the building, states that he would not attempt to place a valuation on the building and since it was insured only against fire, it is a total loss. The summer cottage of Dave Williams, Seattle attorney, was completely destroyed by a slide Saturday night. Fortunately the family had been unable to come over for the week-end, and the house was unoccupied. Tons of earth and large trees coming down upon it crushed the house and contents to kindling wood. For a while it was felt that the Coryell and Taylor places were also in danger, but it is hoped that that danger is now past unless the heavy rain begins again. It is reported that Mr. Williams had just completed payment on the cottage Saturday, and had intended coming over with his family to spend the week-end. Had he done so the destruction of the house would have been a real tragedy, that would likely resulted in much more than mere destruction of property. The Williams have been summer residents of the Island for several years, and all who know them are sympathizing with them in their loss. From every direction come reports of damage to roads from the heavy rainfall. At the South End, a short distance from the dock a large portion of the new highway, a fill of sandy formation, was washed out, making the road impassable. Fortunately the old road is still useable. A culvert too small to take care of the water is responsible for a bad washout on the old “Sawmill Road” west of Burton near the place formerly occupied by L.Le Beau. There is also a bad place on the Morgan road between the telephone office and the top of the hill.
Young People to Sing Carols Christmas Eve – The Young People’s class of the Vashon Presbyterian church, which meets at the manse every Sunday at 10 o’clock, is accomplishing much under the capable leadership of its president, Bob Harmeling, and the willing co-operation on the part of the twenty-three members. Last Sunday parts were given out for a Christmas play to be given on Christmas eve at the church. After the play a large truck will take the carolers to all parts of the Island, especially to the doors of the aged and ill, carrying to them a bit of Christmas cheer.
Attend Annual Meeting Of Patrol Leaders In Seattle – Ira O. Thompson, Scoutmaster for the Vashon troop, with patrol leaders, Bob Matsumoto, Andrew Shride, Bobby Beall and Stanley Anderson, attended the annual patrol leaders’ convention in Seattle.
Boy Scouts of Vashon Island To Hold Court – A Court of Honor for the Vashon district, Boy Scouts of America, was held at the Scout cabin at Vashon on December 11. Nineteen members received badges.
Islanders Make Visit To Olympia Thursday – Mr. and Mrs. J.F. Shaw and Agnes L. Smock drove to Olympia last Thursday, where they visited both houses of the legislature and called upon Representative Ed Cochrane. They were able to set before Mr. Cochrane some information concerning the Island that was enlightening to him, and which would tend to make him more interested in some of our problems. In the afternoon they were entertained by listening to a discussion of both houses of the Steele bill, favoring state liquor stores. Mrs. Smock enjoyed the privilege of occupying a chair on the floor of the senate beside the desk of C. “Nifty” Garrett (a fellow editor, of Sumner), who made history last winter by riding a Democratic mule up the steps of the capital.
Car Burns When Ignited by Backfire – The Chrysler car belonging to Rev. R.E. Dunlap was almost totally destroyed by fire last Friday evening. Mr. Dunlap had been on an errand to the home of his son, J.W. Dunlap, and when a short distance west of the phone office his car lights went out. He was close to the right hand side of the road and when suddenly left in darkness, he allowed the car to swerve and drop into the gutter along the side. As he attempted to pull out ahead the car backfired, and finding that he could not go ahead he reversed the engine and it again backfired several times. The tank was full enough so that, tipped in the manner in which it was, the gas began to drip out and as the engine backfired caught fire. Mr. Dunlap was without any means of fighting the fire, small as it was at the beginning, and seeing that he was helpless to extinguish it, saved as much as possible from the interior before the flames reached it. Although it had been in use about eight years the car was in excellent condition and represents a great loss to Mr. Dunlap, who is still active in the ministry. He had carried fire insurance until last March and had discontinued it on the advice of the agent.
Vashon Island Commandery Elects Officers For Year
West Side Water Company Elects Officers For Year – A rather unique arrangement resulted in two presidents being named to shoulder the burdens, and Charles Boyd and R.E. Stafford will share the honors and blame, impartially, 50-50.
New Addition to Methodist Church Is Dedicated Sunday Morning; Tjomsland Praised
Opens Flower Shop In Seattle – N. Hoshi, Island nurseryman, has opened a flower shop in Seattle for wholesale and retail business. He is featuring principally Vashon Island products, fruits, vegetables, nursery stock, bulbs, etc. The new shop is located at 515 Jackson street.
Bobby Harmeling, who was so severely burned last week, is reported as recovering nicely, although he is still obliged to lie flat on his back all of the time, which is decidedly tiresome to an active youngster. From all indication there will be no scars, except possibly under his arm where the burns were deepest.
Burton radio listeners to President Roosevelt’s address to the convention in Washington, of the Federal Council of Churches in America, last week noted with interest his compliments to the sermon of Rev. Dr. Bevan, who preceded him on the program. Old residents of Burton will remember Bert Bevan, son of an early-time Burton minister, as a boy who received his early education in the local schools of Vashon Island. He is a Burton boy who made good in the best sense of the word.
Fred R. Boynton, of Seattle, general counselor for the A.A.A., was present in Burton Precinct Justice Court on Saturday, representing the association when seven boys, ranging in age from 16 to 19 years of age, accompanied by their parents and guardians, were arraigned before Justice Smith for the serious misdemeanor of destroying road signs, the property of Washington Automobile Association, on the night of October 31, last. The boys freely confessed their guilt, and were given suspended sentences. Hallowe’en is no excuse for vandalism, and Deputy Sheriff Shattuck announces that other apprehensions may follow.
Notice To Patrons – I am establishing a regular Barber Route around the Island, but will be at Vashon (next to Austie’s Place) every Saturday and you are cordially invited to inspect…the world’s only strictly up-to-date traveling Barber Shop. For appointments please call Black 734, Wenzel Leonhard, formerly Sanitary Barber Shop, Vashon.

December 21, 1933

Floods and Slides Continue To Cause Damage to Roads And Many Island Residences – Apparently the heavens have joined with the earth in making history, for never in the memory of some of the oldest inhabitants has such a large quantity of rain fallen in an equal length of time. O.E. Ramquist, government recorder, reports that in the last 18 days 15.18 inches of rain has fallen, although it is hard to believe that the amount is not even greater. Added to this, the highest tides of the year, combined with high winds, have wrought much damage to bulkheads along the beaches. Property damage is reported from various parts of the Island, consisting of destruction of beach cottages. At the North End early Sunday afternoon a portion of the hill back of the Shields property was loosened and slid down bringing with it a stump that crushed the wall of the kitchen and landed in the middle of the room. Mr. Shields, who was in the room at the time narrowly escaped being hit. In the Colvos district two cottages, belonging to Frank Johnson, were destroyed when they slipped down onto the beach. A new cottage, fully furnished and with a fireplace just recently completed, belonging to Lloyd Hansen, was a total wreck. Another cottage at Cedarhurst slipped down the hill and is headed for the beach. At Magnolia Beach one of the houses belonging to Ira Case was dislodged and slid into the water. At Burton, near Assembly Point, a large seven-room house belonging to William Corkery, of Seattle, was totally wrecked when the bank on which it stood gave way. Fortunately it was unoccupied and there is a new house which was to take the place of the old one in process of construction. It is also reported that on Tuesday afternoon a house south of the Cove store was destroyed by a slide. To date there has been no injuries resulting from the destruction of the cottages, as all, with the exception of the Shields home, are occupied by summer residents. A beach cottage belonging to Frederick West, located near Dolphin Point at the Heights slid and was completely wrecked.
Slide Again Blocks Cove Road – Just as the road crew, with the county tractor and trucks had completed clearing away the remains of the first slide on the Cove hill Wednesday morning and had pulled away, the point of the hill back of the store and dock let go and rushed down toward the bay, missing Marsh’s store by only about ten feet. Had the slide occurred a few minutes before it did there is a decided possibility that it would have been with tragic results. It is estimated that it will take at least three days to clear the road of this latest obstruction.
Retired Jeweler Here To Make Home – H.E. Peterson, pioneer jeweler formerly of Toledo, Oregon, arrived last week to make his home with his nephew, Osmond Johnson, of the West Side. Mr. Peterson, finding that after a few days of inactivity time was hanging heavily on his hands, has decided to again get to work and will take care in an expert manner of the watch and jewelry repairing on the Island.
More Than Eighty Men Now At Work On Island Projects – It’s an ill wind, etc. and probably the same thing that is true about the wind applies equally to the rain that has been coming with it the past few weeks, for it was partially responsible for the putting to work of fifty additional road workers this week. With the thirty already working under the new program it will mean that many families will have a more cheerful Christmas than otherwise. Slides in all parts of the Island have kept road crews working overtime, with efforts concentrated on the roads over which mail must be carried. The Ellisport-Portage road was again blocked by slides on Sunday evening, which were cleared away as rapidly as possible. Slide follows slide on the Cove hill road and as soon as one is cleared another takes its place and makes another job for the road men. Supervisor Rhulen reports that it will be impossible to take care of the work on side roads as long as the mail routes require the attention now necessary. It will probably be some time before all of the roads can be cleared of slides. A large crew are at work on the Shawnee road which is being leveled and widened, and the bulkheads repaired and filled in. Drain pipe is being put in to care for the water from springs along the side of the hill. Still more men are at work on the new athletic grounds for the high school, while two crews of carpenters are remodeling the Burton grammar school and reshingling the Vashon building. As soon as the emergency jobs are finished the men now at work will be put on the other road jobs, fixing ditches, widening shoulders, etc. An attempt is being made to secure additional funds which will make it possible to continue the outlined program and keep the men at work until March or April.
Vashon Island Churches to Present Varied Programs During Christmas Holidays – The Island churches will observe the Christmas season in the customary manner, and the children will take a leading part in various programs.
Mail Taken Off At Colvos – With the Cove road blocked by slides it has been necessary for the Virginia V to pick up and discharge mail at the Colvos dock for Vashon, Ellisport and Portage since Monday.
Twickenham Estate Damaged By Fire – Fire Wednesday morning damaged the interior and contents of Twickenham Estate at Cowley’s. Mr. Taylor, the present occupant, was unable to get help and succeeded in putting out the fire and saving the house. Ill luck seems to have dogged the steps of the present occupants of the place, for the high water coming down the canyon back of the place has overflowed the pools, carrying away much of the goldfish stock. Between the ravages of fire and water it is little wonder that Mr. Taylor feels discouraged over his venture.
Boat Carries Big Load Of Mail – It is interesting to note that during the recent floods on the mainland much of the mail going between Tacoma and Seattle was carried on the Virginia V. Fourteen tons in all was carried. Which goes to show that although there is a movement toward removing the boats of this type from the mail service, at times they are of real necessity. It is also interesting to consider that had flood conditions continued bad there would still have been the possibility of re-routing traffic between the two cities via our Island and its ferries.
Island Schools Will Unite in Program to Be Given Thursday – It is anticipated that between three and four hundred children, pupils of the Island schools, will unite in an all-Island program at the high school on Thursday evening, December 21, in commemoration of Christmas.
Vashon Epworth League To Present Programs – Next Sunday night, December 24, an interesting evening has been planned by the Vashon Methodist Epworth League. It will consist of the showing of a number of lantern slides concerning the Nativity, a very timely and beautiful subject.
Cove, Cedarhurst and Colvos Items – The Past Worthy Matrons gave a delightful luncheon at the Marsh home last Tuesday in honor of Mrs. Arletta Hayes. Those present were Mesdames Weiss, Hansen, Stone, Hearst, Sherman, Hayes and Marsh.
Bobbie Harmeling Improving – Young Bobbie Harmeling, who suffered severe burns recently, is reported as improving, and is able to again be up and around the house, although still under Dr. McMurray’s care. Bobbie is looking forward to returning to school after the Christmas holidays.
Jimmie And Allen Went Shopping – Among the Christmas shoppers journeying to Tacoma last Saturday were Jimmie Cronander and Allen Metzenberg. After the two young men had made their purchases they went to a show. They asked an usher to let them know when it was four o’clock as they had several stops to make on the way to the Municipal dock. The girl promptly forgot the two boys and it was five o’clock when they came to earth, with fifteen minutes to go. Stopping to collect a wagon enroute, they arrived after the boat had gone. So with wagon, Christmas gifts, and what-not they boarded a car to the home of Jim’s grandmother, where they remained until Sunday afternoon.

December 28, 1933

Many Damaged Highways Being Repaired; No Funds Available for South End – It will cost approximately $5,000 to make the necessary repairs to Island roads. This will not include the damage done to the new South End road nor the removal of slides on some of the less important roads. Even some of the roads over which mail is being hauled will have to wait until spring, according to Supervisor Rhulen. Slides which took out a portion of the bulkhead along the Ellisport-Portage road still remain uncleared and keep this road closed. It is impossible to say just when it will again be opened. The Pohl road west from Tahlequah will be opened within a few days. Slides coming down from the new road did much damage to the Pohl road. The Cove road has again been cleared and unless further slides occur will be useable. The Armstrong road, north from Cedarhurst, better known as the Spalding road is again open, but considerable work must be done before it is again in good condition. The Corbin road which was closed for a time is again open, but will require further work later on. The lower end of the Cross Landing road is entirely closed and the clearing will not be completed until some of the more traveled roads are again repaired. The lower end of the Glen Acres road is also closed with several slides. The Manzanita road is so badly damaged that it will be unfit for travel probably until spring. The Kingsbury road which was closed for several days has again been opened for travel. The Vashon Landing road is closed by slides at the bottom of the hill below the Bacchus house., while farther along, where the road turns to the north slides not only filled the road, but took out a considerable portion of the bulkhead. This road will be abandoned until spring. Fortunately none of the slides along the road seriously damaged any part of the Vashon water system, although several breaks occurred which cut short the supply of water for a short time. The washout on the new South End road will not be even considered under the present program, and until help is received from the state or in a special fund from the county traffic for Tahlequah will have to be routed over the old road. Practically no damage was done to the Burton-Shawnee road on which 30 men are working, but the road has been closed to traffic for the present. Supervisor Rhulen states that the regular road crew and equipment, augmented by 50 additional emergency workers are working as fast as possible to get the Island roads into passable condition. Nothing more than this can be promised, however, until spring and settled weather conditions make possible permanent repairs.
Washington Co-Op Holds Peppy Meeting – There was standing room only at the meeting of the Vashon Local of the Washington Co-Op held Tuesday evening at the Island Club. Mr. D.M. Calhoon, chairman, announced the payment of dividends by the Association of which Vashon Island’s share is $3,329.44. This is 8 per cent interest on stock held by Island members and will be issued in 165 checks to be released Saturday.
Bill Smith Draws Selection On All-American Football; Eleven To Play in East-West – Never before has recognition come to an Island youngster that has brought with it the thrill to everyone as has the All-American title recently bestowed on Bill Smith, who began his career on the football field at Burton. Smith sprung into national prominence against Stanford when, with two place kicks, he scored all the points which defeated the co-holders of the Pacific Coast crown and West’s representatives in the New Year clash at Pasadena. He added another memorable feat to his record in the game against U.C.L.A. with a touchdown, try-for-point and in booting a field goal. From a rather undersized youngster who began his game at Burton, Bill has developed into a six-footer who weighs 197 pounds and who can consistently run the 100 in ten seconds.
Verona Drifts At Mercy of Elements – Last Thursday morning the commuters, regular patrons of the Verona, were given a thrill they do not want to repeat very soon. On the way to the city, about 15 minutes out from Vashon Heights, something went wrong with the mechanism of the boat, which rendered it entirely helpless. Fortunately a wind from the direction opposite to the direction of the tide prevented the boat from drifting rapidly. Out of the line of traffic from any direction and with no means of communication, it was considerable time before the plight of the Verona was observed. Finally, however, an oil tanker appeared on the scene and took the boat in tow, the passengers landing two hours behind scheduled time. According to reports this is the third time within about six weeks that the same difficulty with the engine has occurred, although this incident caused the most serious delay.
Three Vashon H.S. Boys Receive Honors – Will Bill Smith an All-American, the Island has still further need to be proud of its young people at the University of Washington, as well as elsewhere. It was announced last week that out of the twenty-four seniors eligible to the Oval Club, honorary society for activities on the campus during their four years of college life, three of the twenty-four were Vashon Island boys, graduates of the Vashon high school. Donald Kirkland was admitted to membership because of his outstanding activities and success as business manager of the University of Washington Daily. Merit Corbin received his membership because of his outstanding track records, and Andy Holland because of his success in baseball.
Passengers Are “All Wet” – Passengers for the early boats from Vashon Heights one morning last week were justly incensed when forced to stand out in a torrential downpour, with a locked door keeping them out of the waiting room. Some attempted to keep dry under the tiny roof built out over the door, while others took refuge in the lavatories. One man who was comfortably sheltered in his car stated that the fact that the passengers did not break in the waiting room door was a tribute to the law-biding propensity of the American people. However, a number of those who got “all wet” during the performance state that if there is a next time they will not be as patient again.
He Has It Not – Who Has It For Him? – Your attention is called to one of the ads in the classified section of this week’s News-Record, in which the loss of a saw is told. Such a loss would not ordinarily be of as much importance as in this case, nor would we ordinarily consider it of particular news value. In this case, however, the humanitarian element enters in. The saw lost was not the property of the man who was using it. He is one of the Island’s unemployed, who has been having a rather hard struggle. He had borrowed the saw to cut wood for his family’s use, and when returning to his home lost it. Under the circumstances we do not believe anyone knowing the facts in the case would care to keep the lost tool.
This (Thursday) morning the summer cottage belonging to Cowans just north of their home at the dock was practically wrecked by a slide.
It is reported that the recent rains have decreased the Island by approximately two feet the entire distance around it, which in the aggregate represents quite a considerable amount of land that has gone into the bay.

Vashon History

Timeline

Newspaper Summary 1933

January - February - March - April - May - June - July - August - September - October - November - December

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1933 Vashon Island News-Record Summary (Mike Sudduth)

January 1933 January 5, 1933

January 12, 1933

January 19, 1933

January 26, 1933

February 1933 February 2, 1933

February 9, 1933

February 23, 1933

March 1933 March 2, 1933

March 9, 1933

March 16, 1933

March 23, 1933

March 30, 1933

April 1933 April 6, 1933

April 13, 1933

April 20, 1933

April 27, 1933

May 1933 May 4, 1933

May 11, 1933

May 18, 1933

May 25, 1933

June 1933 June 1, 1933

June 8, 1933

June 15, 1933

June 22, 1033

June 29, 1933

July 1933 July 6, 1933

July 13, 1933

July 20, 1933

July 27, 1933

August 1933 August 3, 1933

August 10, 1933

August 17, 1933

August 24, 1933

August 31, 1933

September 1933

September 7, 1933

September 14, 1933

September 21, 1933

September 28, 1933

October 1933 October 5, 1933

October 12, 1933

October 19, 1933

October 26, 1933

November 1933 November 2, 1933

November 9, 1933

November 16, 1933

November 23, 1933

November 30, 1933

December 1933 December 7, 1933

December 14, 1933

December 21, 1933

December 28, 1933

Vashon History

Vashon History

January 1933
January 5, 1933

February 1933
February 2, 1933

March 1933
March 2, 1933

April 1933
April 6, 1933

May 1933
May 4, 1933

June 1933
June 1, 1933

July 1933
July 6, 1933

August 1933
August 3, 1933

October 1933
October 5, 1933

November 1933
November 2, 1933

December 1933
December 7, 1933