In the heart of Yelm, Washington, a community steeped in resilience and history gathered to reflect on its past and envision its future. The city hall buzzed with stories of survival, particularly the harrowing tales of three devastating fires that nearly obliterated the town: the fires of 1908, 1913, and the most catastrophic in 1924.

The 1924 fire left an indelible mark on Yelm, ravaging the historic business district and erasing nearly all traces of its early establishments. “It took everything out,” one resident recalled, emphasizing the profound loss felt by the community. The remnants of that era are few, but the spirit of those who rebuilt remains strong.

As the meeting unfolded, stories of early life in Yelm painted a vivid picture of determination. One speaker shared how his family lived under a log during their first year, crafting a makeshift shelter as they settled by the water. This humble beginning was a testament to the grit of Yelm's early residents.

The legacy of community service was also highlighted, with a nod to the city’s first fire department, organized by the speaker’s father. Innovative measures were taken to ensure safety, including installing direct phone lines in firemen's homes, allowing for rapid responses to emergencies. The sound of a fire siren, echoing across the water, became a familiar call to action for the townsfolk.

Yelm's economy in those early days revolved around logging and farming, with raspberries playing a significant role. “Kids, even as a young man, I was picking berries,” one participant reminisced, recalling the seasonal work that connected families to the land. The community thrived on the abundance of nature, with acres of blackberries inviting everyone to join in the harvest.

As Yelm approaches its centennial celebration, the stories shared during this meeting serve as a reminder of the community's resilience and unity. The scars of the past have shaped a vibrant present, and the spirit of Yelm continues to flourish, rooted in its rich history and the collective strength of its people.