Welburn. Brick School 1856 two miles north of Odin. In 1920 the building was torn down and replaced with a new frame building. At one time there were 70 kids enrolled and the teacher salary of $25.00 per month was paid. Rankin School in 1884 was deeded from Hamlin family and Ella Phillips was paid $30 a month in 1909 and $35 a month in 1915. Margaret Robinson made $60 per month in 1919 and Gladys McClelland was paid $75 a month in 1920. The price for teaching went to $80 in 1931 with Eunice Tinkler hired. Mary Hawley in 1940 and Virginia Scott in 1942 were paid $90 per month. 1952 the school was purchased by Ben Young and pupils were transported to other schools. Lakeview School (not sure what lake) was built in 1893 Forest Park School, later called Love School was built in 1892 Matthew school - 1896 Some school rules: No swearing on school grounds, no whispering and mind the teacher in all things. Odin Coal Company A mass convention of the citizens was called for the purpose of considering the propriety and manner of organizing a coal and mining company. The capital stock was placed at $25,000 and after four months of steady work and united efforts the entire amount of stock was taken without the assistance of outside capital. The mine commission consisted of W. H. Phillips, J. G. Vaughn, L. Somerville, F. D. Secor, W. H. Cole, W. E. Smith, N. B. Morrison, A. M. Woodard and E. Sharp; all prominent and influential citizens. The company was incorporated under the laws of the state, and the contract for sinking the shaft was awarded to Messrs. Earls & Paul, mine contractors of Sandoval, Illinois. N. B. Morrison was president. Officially recorded as ISGS Index #87, Odin Coal Company, 1 Shaft, Method = Modified Room and Pillar (MRP), 1887–1939, Seam Mined = Herrin Twp 2N, Rge 1E, Sec 13. Coal was expected at a depth of 600 feet and was not found until 669 feet in 1886. At that time the whistle at the shaft announced that coal had been found, bringing excitement to the town. A grand barbecue and picnic in honor of the event was held with Hon. William D. Farthing the committee chairman. 5000 people attended the celebration and had speeches from Gov. Oglesby, US Attorney G. Van Hoorbeke and others. Odin