history

Challenges in Labor and Ground Conditions Hinder Historic Tunnel Project

The construction of the Snake Creek Drain Tunnel faced numerous setbacks due to labor issues and unstable ground conditions. With worker safety at risk, the project encountered tragic incidents while struggling to meet financial and operational challenges over its six-year duration.

Featured image for article: Challenges in Labor and Ground Conditions Hinder Historic Tunnel Project
The Snake Creek Drain Tunnel, a significant excavation project in the Park City area, faced numerous challenges throughout its construction from 1910 to 1916. Labor issues and unstable geological conditions plagued workers and management, creating a treacherous environment for those toiling underground. This article serves as the fourth installment in an ongoing series documenting the tunnel's complex history. In February 1912, the project hit a critical setback when a collapse occurred at a depth of 4,066 feet. The cause was primarily attributed to the “heavy ground” encountered by the workers. Initially, builders attempted to address the instability by using heavy timber supports, specifically 10-foot-by-10-foot Oregon pine beams. However, these supports failed within 24 hours, leading project manager Mr. Friendly to implement a costly steel-reinforced concrete lining to stabilize the affected area. This method proved effective, yet it set a tense tone for the workers, who faced worsening conditions underground. As safety concerns escalated among the laborers, they recommended additional bracing to prevent further collapses. However, management, hesitant to incur further expenses, dismissed their suggestions, leading to heightened tensions in the workforce. By July 1912, this tension culminated in tragedy, resulting in a fatal collapse and prompting several workers to walk off the job due to unsafe conditions. Despite these incidents, Mr. Friendly's reports maintained an optimistic outlook, briefly mentioning suspended work due to an “accident.” Labor compensation issues also emerged, causing further dissatisfaction among workers and even affecting boarding house proprietors. Workers demanded direct payment before resuming work, which was resolved eventually, allowing the project to move forward. Over the duration of six years, construction revealed dangerous conditions, with risks increasing significantly beyond 3,200 feet. Workers faced fears of hazardous weather, equipment failures, and the potential for death daily. By March 30, 1916, after extensive excavation, the tunnel was completed at 14,499.7 feet, although only one track was installed instead of the anticipated two. While the tunnel aimed to tap into valuable mineral reserves and provide water resources, tests found no significant ore deposits at various depths. Instead, the water flow became the most valuable aspect, registering at 14.54 cubic feet per second in October 1922. However, complications arose over ownership rights, leading to a prolonged legal battle that ultimately reached the U.S. Supreme Court. The decision would prove disappointing, as the combination of unfulfilled expectations regarding ore and unresolved water rights weighed heavily on the project’s financial viability. This series will continue to explore the intricate legacy of the Snake Creek Drain Tunnel and its impact on the community of Park City. Contributions from researchers Steve Leatham and Clark Martinez have been invaluable in assembling this historical narrative.