by the Cumberland Centennial Committee. 1974. 140p

The early Norwegian settlers in Cumberland, particularly in the Bethany community and Comstock, arrived in the 1870s, seeking new opportunities. Despite facing numerous hardships, they built resilient communities centered around churches, families, and schools. Their legacy is evident today in the continued presence of their descendants. The Italian community also significantly impacted Cumberland, particularly with the establishment of St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in 1913, which became a hub for cultural and religious life. The educational landscape evolved from a log schoolhouse in 1891 to modern facilities, with the Cumberland high school gaining a state charter in 1888. The logging industry was crucial to the area’s economic growth, especially with the arrival of the railroad. The Cumberland Farmers Union Co-op, founded in 1931, further supported local agriculture, showcasing the community’s ongoing dedication to education and economic development.