A Look Back …This week in the Forks Forum

Published 1:30 am Thursday, April 16, 2026

This week in 2001, Elisa Kilmer was featured in a front-page photo participating in the Community Easter Egg Hunt (photo). Bert Paul had been named the OCC Volunteer of the Year. City of Forks attorney/planner Rod Fleck had traveled to Washington, D.C., to hand-deliver resolutions, letters, and petitions opposing the closure of the Coast Guard Station at La Push. Bogachiel Garden Club members Judi, Martha, and Susan had planted trees at the Forks Transit Center. City Hall was being renovated, adding a larger council chamber and several more offices. An elk study was being done, and some elk were being fitted with radio collars.

Fifty years ago this week, it was front-page news that multiple Sasquatch sightings were being reported near Three Rivers and La Push. Bert Maris had been honored as he retired from the Forks Fire Department after 25 years of service. Arnold Black was training at the Indian Police Academy. Beaver Postmaster Mary Johnson was featured in a photo (photo).

This week in 1969, it was nearing time for the Mill Creek Fishing Derby. Five hundred legal-size trout, from the Quilcene Hatchery, had been planted for the event (photo). QVSD teachers had gotten a raise.

In 1954, 10,000 silvers were being introduced into the Quillayute river system. It was reported that many people were visiting La Push to see the whales. Dr. Meyers was planning a slideshow presentation to share photos from his seven years spent in Africa.

This week in 1940, Forks area residents were going to the polls to vote on a 7-mill levy for a new grade school. Rumors were worrying residents near the newly formed Olympic National Park and the condemnation of their property. Officials assured them they were just rumors, although they welcomed willing sellers.

In 1939, a dramatic rescue of 36 seamen from the British freighter Temple Bar appeared on the front page. The ship had run aground near the Quillayute Needles. Coastguardsmen from the station at La Push had assisted with the rescue.