A Look Back …This week in the Forks Forum

Published 1:30 am Thursday, July 2, 2026

This week in 2001, the New Old Time Chautauqua was coming to the Feast of Forks at Tillicum Park. Corlie Whitehead, longtime 4th of July organizer, was honored with her very own day, with a Proclamation that the 4th of July was Corlie Whitehead Day. In a letter to the editor, the Shay Locomotive at Tillicum Park had “written” a letter …thanking community members who had helped over the years and with the recent restoration project. In “In the Service” news, Joseph D. Gaydeski had recently completed basic training at the Marine Corps Recruit Depot in San Diego. Clallam Bay High School alumni were planning a reunion for classes 1932-2001 during Fun Days.

In 1976, it was front-page news that Dr. Leibold would be the Grand Marshal for the 4th Parade. Doc had served three years in the Coast Guard at La Push during WWII. He later returned to become the town doctor. He also served a stint in Vietnam (photo). A story about Leo Nelson, Farmer and Logger, appeared with a photo of Leo on his tractor (photo). Candidate for Governor Dixie Lee Ray was planning on attending the Forks 4th of July events. It was reported that a film crew from Seattle was in town filming an “Art” film titled “The Lesbian and the Smelt.” They had filmed outside the Post Office and at Kalaloch. In advertising, Marietta Mobile Home Sales had deluxe homes for sale at $20,350.

This week in 1969, a group of Cub Scouts had descended on Main Street and picked up a pick-up full of trash. All participants were treated afterward to an ice cream cone from Sully’s. (photo)

In 1954, the Forks 4th schedule was on the front page, featuring a parade on July 3rd on Main Street and a bunch of activities on the 4th at La Push. With a beach picnic and fireworks over the water. In Olympic Clinic/Hospital news, it was reported that the Reese baby was still in the incubator.

In 1940, Ranger S. M. Floe, USFS, shared an article on 1940 Fire Laws on National Forest Land. It was reported that Mrs. Ira Crippen had fallen while picking blackberries near the Upper Hoh River and broken her leg.

In 1939, it was reported 50 people were planning on climbing Mt. Olympus on July 4th. Fred Fletcher was to pack for the party from Portland. Manganese mining was being proposed. The town Sheriff was urging citizens to quit leaving their keys in their cars.