Originally in the 1978 Program
The birth of the "Deming Logging Show" came about when a severely injured logger's need help became apparent. With nothing but determination, and backbreaking work, his loyal friends began what seemed the impossible. Anything can be done in time, but this we were very short of. One logger told another and through word of mouth; the equipment, gas, diesel, spar trees, cable, use of "Mullen's" pasture, and advertising were all donated. Needless to say, show number one was a success. Even with our guests sitting on the ground, they were a great audience!
Soon everyone became aware of how much help was needed to tide the injured logger over before the insurance could help. We also realized great pride and strength from all of Whatcom County. People enjoyed being needed in the fellowship of working together. Everyone had their own special talent to lend.
Thanks to the fine help from news media, and as in the beginning; generous
contributions, we were able to bend our backs once again. Ten years later
(1972), the big step came. "Our own land," big and beautiful, what a challenge -
what a thrill! It meant giving up most of the time the men would have had to do
their own projects, at home or in business; loss of money when men in charge
take time off their regular jobs to keep things progressing at a tremendous
pace. We must get the permanent home of the loggers ready for show time! So
families came once again, bringing food for work parties, cleaning grounds, and
painting.
Such care was used when cleaning the grounds - Too bad everyone doesn't know the loggers are truly the best ecologists, not the blight of the land! Every foot of our land, forty acres, displays the care of detail used to keep the gentle woodlands feeling.
Nothing
but rustic elegance can describe the buildings snuggled amongst the trees and
wild foliage. all buildings ever erected will be in keeping of shake and poles.
Every year, new projects for our guest's comforts - wide sidewalks for wheel chairs, ramps, large rest rooms, playground equipment for children of members and guests. Improvements for the arena, with each better idea that came along. Pits for the contestants, so spectators have a clear view of the events going on. Then the big on came along! Steel bleachers - what a joy! All donated by logging mill companies and individuals. Their names can be seen above each set of bleachers.
No stopping now for these super men and the wives, a new log pond with the addition of new contests. Parking area to hold hundreds of cars, campers and trailers.
Once again, a new dream! Or should I say, "One More Time" - "Museum." Do we dare try it? Yes, it's becoming a reality; the roof is on, sides are up, and with the help of our many friends, we hope to acquire kitchen equipment and needed furnishings.
As was the need for large and lovely grounds in the area, so is the need for a large hall. We have shared our playground for the loggers with the community and will continue to do so.
We have been very fortunate with many floats; we have taken throughout the state, to let people know about our work to help "Busted Up Loggers." We are very proud of the many fine trophies it has brought us home. We are indeed duly proud of the lovely and intelligent young women that represent our logging show.
With loving care, the growth of the memorial trees dedicated to the men who lost their lives in the logging industry. They are trees native to the region.
Each year, we honor an old-time logger with the prestigious title, "Bull of the Woods." Our thanks for the many years of harvesting and planting forest lands.
Many people that are not in the logging industry have helped to make the Deming Logging Show what it is today. We are famous for our Bar-B-Q, thanks to the hard work of many of our friends. This year, with the addition of the cold room, we hope to serve many more guests.
Many years ago, the members voted on the colors of green and white for their emblem. The green for the lush forests and the white for the beautiful wild dogwood.
We have many people to thank for all the hard work, upkeep on the grounds, unselfish and favors. Wives, mothers and children that stand behind their men. Friends in the news, fields, Sheriff Department, State Patrol, and ambulance services have helped make our special show on the second weekend of June, always a place one can be pleased to bring his family and friends.
Sponsors for each event, machinery companies for the use of the display equipment - our list of thanks could go endlessly on. And to you, our supporters, our unending gratitude for your ticket purchase to help our "Busted Up Loggers" and their families.
May good fortune and lasting love,
Come to you from God above.
Written by Elaine Starry.