It was gone for a several years, but now it’s back for all to enjoy.

The Orcas Historical Museum held a rededication ceremony for the hand-carved totem pole that was stationed in front of its grounds for nearly a decade.

The piece was carved by Bob Cook in the early 1970s. He donated it to the museum in 1996, and over time it deteriorated and developed rot. Local wood carver Walter Henderson spent hours restoring the piece, which is made of western red cedar. It is now installed on the back side of the museum building.

Fourth and fifth graders from Orcas Elementary were invited to be a part of the ceremony held on June 3.

Museum board member Denise Wilk told the students, “You are our future. We want to inspire you to get involved with our activities.”

Henderson answered questions from the kids, who were all very interested in the history of the pole and its restoration process. Henderson said it would be “good for another 25 to 30 years.”

Henderson also talked about his free woodcarving class every Saturday held at his studio in Deer Harbor from 10 to 1 p.m. Kids and adults are invited. Call 376-4605 for directions.

Che Blaine blessed the pole and led a chant called “The Thunderbird Song,” and Anthony Ayer showed the children the ice age bison skull that was found on Orcas and is now on display in the museum. Students asked questions about how early man arrived on Orcas, what killed the bison, and if the animal still exists today.

After munching on lemonade and cookies, the students received a tour of the museum and then headed back to school.