Veteran lumbermen looking to next generation

IIOLLOwING uP on its successful I-' efforts to begin recording the history of the Western lumber industry, the Lumber Pioneers is looking toward the future in developing the next generation for the industry.

The Lumber Pioneers was formed tn 2004 to maintain the many relationships among individuals who have worked in the western lumber industry, document the history of companies and individuals who have shaped the industry, and provide support for those seeking a career in the industry. Membership in the organization now tops 130, and any individual with at least 20 years experience in the industry can join for $20 in annual dues.

Paul Bunyan Not fuet A Tall Tale

THE mythical Paul Bunyan is I linked to reallife history in the newest monograph published by the Lumber Pioneers, with assistance from Milton Schultz, the last Paul Bunyan manager.

The monograph covers the Paul Bunyan Lumber Co,, which operated in northern Califomia from 1945 to 1986. Tracing the company's roots back to the Red River Lumber Co. in the 1860s, the publication details how the T.B. Walker family, including grandson Paul Walker, helped transform the industry with new logging techniques, transportation partnerships, and innovative

LUMBER \\ PICINEERS

marketing.

Walker's companies took the regional tale of Paul Bunyan and made the fabled lumberman-along with his blue ox Babe-a household name throughout the country, while at the same time promoting the mill's products. Other characters that were part of the promotions included Johnny Inkslinger, Paul's headquarters clerk; Big Ole, the blacksmith, and Sport, the reversible dog.

The gigantic logger Paul Bunyan continues to live today within the Turtle Bay Exploration Park in Redding, Ca. The Paul Bunyan Forest Camp includes play equipment and exhibits to teach children about California's forests and timber industry.

The Paul Bunyan Lumber Co. monograph is the third historical publication commissioned by the Lumber Pioneers. The first monograph was on Pope & Talbot's Port Gamble, Wa., mill, the longest continually operated sawmill in North America before it closed. Last year, the Lumber Pioneers released a monograph about Gilchrist Timber Co. in central Oregon.

Copies of the monographs are $5 each. For ordering informatlon, pioneers@wwpa.org.

At the organization's third annual meeting, held Sept. 28 in Clackamas, Or., Lumber Pioneer members confirmed its standing as an Oregon nonprofit corporation and voted to proceed with applying to the Internal Revenue Service to become a taxexempt organization.

Robert Courtney, Lumber Pioneers chairman, said the Iegal work is essential for establishing a charitable fund for scholarship or other philanthropic programs.

"It's important to set this up properly and create a solid base for any charitable activities the members want to pursue," he said. "We want to provide the full tax benefits to donors, which will encourage contributions to this worthwhile effort. "

Courtney said the Lumber Pioneers will likely establish a scholarship program once its IRS status is finalized. He said many members are eager to help those seeking a career in the wood products industry.

"There are some great opportunities ahead for young people who want to be a part of our industry. As we look at the challenges facing companies who make and sell wood products, our industry will need the fresh talents and energy of today's youth," Courtney said.

"The best legacy we can leave as wood products veterans is a new generation ready to lead our industry in this century," he added. "We believe a scholarship program can help create those new leaders."

Courtney said membership recruitment also is a top priority for the Lumber Pioneers this year. He said there will be a renewed effort to recruit long-time professionals who are still working in the industry.

For more information about the Lumber Pioneers or for membership registration forms, visit the Lumber Pioneers section on WWPA's website, www.wwpa.org, under the About WWPA link. Or email the Lumber Pioneers at pioneers@wwpa.org.