Course Information
Participating Teachers
Michele Birley - Mossyrock Junior High School
Exploring Our Places: Michele's Narrative
Mossyrock’s “tale” begins around l852 when settlers began arriving and actually settling in the area known at Klicklitat Valley.
Occupied by several Indians tribes who were friendly at that time, more settlers from the south eventually made their way here after the Civil War to farm. The town eventually became known as Mossyrock because of the huge mossy rock overhanging from the hill over the town. Although there were many little settlements in the area during the late l800’s, Mossyrock seemed to thrive because of its location along an old and established Indian trail which later became Highway 12. The population of the town has remained steady throughout the years. There is little cultural diversity…mainly Hispanic who have come to work in the Christmas trees or the DeGoede Bulb Farm. Lately, many Californians have found their way here - mostly retired. Mossyrock is slowly becoming a bedroom community with many of the younger folks commuting to jobs out of town…..and a retirement community as well as it is a cheaper place to live. The community is pretty conservative with a strong and varied church background.
The school IS very important to the community with sports being the one activity that brings the people together.
However, the school, itself, is used by the community for many different functions and by many different groups and organizations throughout the year. We have not failed a levy in 35 years….and we have passed our bonds (albeit after several tries) so the community strongly supports the school. The school IS MY FAMILY as well. As an “educated outsider”….as I once was called by a board member many years ago….and never feeling truly accepted by the community….the students, the staff, are my family, the buildings, my room….my home. Truly, I LOVE my school!!!! And so.. there you have it. Come see Mossyrock.
Come visit my home. I will treat to lunch at the Country Lunchbox…..and may even let you sit on my throne. Yes, as QUEEN, of my building..the Jr. High, I have a throne!
