Well, HAPPY MONDAY, everyone! April 26th, the Hillsboro Herald, funded by yours truly, offered a $1000 dollar reward for information leading to the return of the brass school bell from the Original David Hill School. That story is here. This was reported as a stolen Hillsboro School bell on KOIN 6.
Reward Offered For Return Of Stolen David Hill School Bell In Hillsboro
1 Hour ago, a railroad worker found the bell at the edge of the railway line in West Hillsboro under a blue blanket and some other rubbish. He called his sister, who told him it was stolen and that there was a reward for its return. Chavez Hilarion is the hero’s name, and he called me to report the discovery. A few minutes later, a Washington County employee was contacted and secured the bell. He returned it to the school.
School Principal Amy Torres was visibly happy, as was Hillsboro Police officer Lisa Erickson, who was leading the efforts to get the bell back. The dedication plaque is still missing, so additional resources will be needed to locate it. Nonetheless, the bell is back! This man, his sister, and all involved are thanked profusely for this effort. Generation of people who attended David Hill School appreciate this, and its return shows that if we work together, we can fix things. Good things can come back when they are taken or lost.
For my part, I am proud to offer the reward to Mr. Hilarion. He did not want to stand for a picture, but today, he is the #Dude in our book—happy day in Hillsboro.
Reward: As I wrote in my original story, the reward money is not money I could easily offer, but I did. If any of you reading this would like to contribute to the fund and have additional money to reinstall the bell, and perhaps a new plaque, don’t hesitate to contact me directly at 503-799-8383 or dirkknudsen@gmail.com. 100% of donated money will go to this cause. As President of the Hillsboro Historical Society, I am proud to make efforts like this. Donations can also be routed to the HHS, and the money will 100% go to this effort as well.
Happy Monday, Hillsboro. And thanks to all who helped in this effort!
