rvbell.html

The Goldendale Sentinel, Goldendale, WA., November 5, 1964, section 2, page 1

ROOSEVELT RECEIVES BELL WITH HISTORY

A bell with a lot of history was presented to the Roosevelt Sunday school by Mrs. Elwin Olson, formerly Mrs. Jane Burdette. Mrs. Olson taught in the Dot community in 1930 and she and her husband came to Roosevelt recently to present the bell to the Sunday school and to tell up some of its history.
According to Mrs. Olson, "In about the year of 1904 the community of Husum decided it would be the only fitting and proper to have a bell for the school. My father-in-law, William Olson, was appointed on the committee to make the necessary arrangements for purchasing the bell. He, in turn, consulted his brother-in-law in Portland who located a used church bell with wonderful tonal qualities. This bell was within the communities financial means ($25) and was purchased.
"The bell was shipped to Underwood on the old sternwheeler, "Bailey Gatzert". From there it was transported to Husum by team and wagon. For the next 48 years it was used in two schools in Husum, not only calling the children to school, morning, noon and recesses, but for all special occasions such as: New Year's, Fourth of July, announcing the end of both the World War I and II and even served as a fire bell. Halloween brought its own special problems as the bell appeared in many mysterious places, even hanging from the old wooden bridge over the White Salmon river.
"In 1953 upon completion of a new, modern, brick building, the bell was no longer needed. At that time the bell was given to me as I had rung it longer than any other teachers."
Upon presenting the Bell Mrs. Olson said "Now it gives my husband and I much pleasure and satisfaction to give this bell to your Sunday school where it may continue to be used for many years to come. May it always continue to ring out good tidings in this modern world."
The Roosevelt Sunday school wishes to thank Mr. and Mrs. Olson for their very fine gesture.