COCOLALLA — A newly published book offers a fresh perspective on area history with plenty of old photographs, recipes and local lore.

The members of the Cocolalla Community Hall put together an updated edition of a cookbook originally published about 20 years ago, adding historic tidbits and photos recently come to light, according to Glenna Roberts, president of the community association.

The book is entitled "Cocolalla School History with Recipes." 

The group is selling copies for $15, and proceeds are earmarked for the upkeep of the Old Cocolalla Schoolhouse where local children attended classes from 1908 to 1953.

"We have to pay for insurance, heat and lights," said Roberts.

Volunteers handle most of the repairs and maintenance work on the old school, she said, which makes it possible to keep the schoolhouse open all year long.

The only historic one-room schoolhouse in the area that is still in use, the little yellow building now hosts community functions, meetings and fundraising events.

In autumn, Cocolalla Community Hall members host a free history day that is typically well-attended, said Roberts.  

Although the building has undergone necessary updates over the years, such as the addition of restrooms, much of its original character remains, from the alphabet above the chalkboard to the floor-to-ceiling teacher's cabinet.

Instead of school desks, however, the building houses tables and chairs more appropriate to its events calendar, she said.

One of the group's major fundraising events is coming up this Saturday, April 9, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The annual Cocolalla Antique and Collectibles Sale features items more than 50 years old. The 120-page "Cocolalla School History with Recipes" will be on sale, too, said Roberts.

The Community Hall is a non-profit organization. Member privileges include the use of the schoolhouse three times during the year. Non-members can rent the space for $30 per use, said Roberts.

Old Cocolalla Schoolhouse is located 1/2 mile west of Highway 95 on the Cocolalla Loop Road.