A mode of pronunciation common in New England. Similarly “hellum” for helm.

1

1818.  We admit the claims he urges in favour of Capt. C.’s being placed at the helum of state.—Mass. Spy, March 4 (word italicized in the original).

2

1858.  

        The hubs of logs from the “Settler’s ellum,”—
Last of its timber,—they couldn’t sell ’em.
O. W. Holmes, ‘The Wonderful One-Hoss-Shay.’    

3

1862.  

        In ellum-shrouds the flashin’ hangbird clings
An’ for the summer vy’ge his hammock slings.
Lowell, ‘Biglow Papers,’ 2nd S., No. 6.    

4