1889 — Twelve Months and a Penstroke

Winter of 1889 came down like a hammer blow. The Salmon River froze solid from Salmon City to Shoup—a sheet of ice so thick and stubborn no one alive had ever seen the like. Men shook their heads and said it wasn’t natural. Maybe it wasn’t. By then the land was worn thin. All through the late eighties the cattle ranchers had been running their herds hard and high, leaving the grass no time to rest. The winter of '88 had already taken its toll but ’89 brought worse. Three hard winters in a row, with the thermometer plunging to sixty below in some places, swept away whole herds. Cattle froze where they stood—some still upright in the snow. Spring came dry and mean and the grass, what little there was of it, turned brittle before it ever turned green.

All over the Rocky Mountains, stockmen were losing beasts by the dozen. Some sold what they could and gave up the business entirely. Others held out, hoping for rain, for mercy, for a miracle.

Me, I had other things on my hands. Alta was two years old and full of questions, quick feet, and mischief. My baby boy, Eddy, had just begun to find his voice—and his appetite. Between the children, the chores, and the stove that never seemed to stay warm enough, I wrote what I could by firelight, sending off reports from the camps but getting them to Salmon City was another matter.

By that spring Jimmy was part owner of the Spring Lode Mine on Pine Creek along with Alex McLeod, James McCullough and Thomas Palmer. The original claim had been staked back in ’82 by McLaine, Donovan and old Sam James but by ’89 it had changed hands. As with most things out here nothing stayed in one set of hands for long—not land, not mines, not fortune.

Still, a good mine was something to hang your hopes on.

Idaho Recorder, February 21, 1889

PINE CREEK LETTER

Pine Creek Feb. 11, 1889

There are a few indications that we will not hibernate much longer. Mr. Parfet and Mr. Blake are improving the time by diligently testing the ore from many of the mines in this local city.

Messengers Quick and Lorenz will resume work immediately on one of their many mines know as the Red King.

Samuel James has been called to Shoup in the capacity of his musical profession. It is hoped that Pine Creek will soon assume a more social attitude so that such talented personages could be appreciated at home.

The sleighing is prime but as biped motor is the only available means of transportation we shall remain strictly within our "proper sphere" for a few months to come.

Mr. McLeod and Mr. McCullough have made the round trip over the divide to Big Creek. They report stock wintering there as being in excellent condition, the hills only partially covered with snow.

The pedestrian train from Shoup and Pine Creek collided with an upriver special from Shoup a few weeks ago. The unceremonious doffing of pugilistic plumes was the only notable feature of the affair.[1]

The saw dust train[2] which has been running between here and Shoup, for Roach and Gibbs has suspended operations. We presume by this that they are done putting up ice, but next Summer, when the thermometer is roaring among the hundreds we will remember where to get cold lemonade made by two smiling bachelors.

Henry Westfall passed through town on route to Big Creek where he is supervising the erection of buildings on his ranch with the intention of moving there in the Spring with his family to permanently reside. It is reported that Mr. Westfall will devote his principle attention to stock-raising in which pursuit he bids fair to succeed as Big Creek is rated to be one of the finest cattle ranges in the county.

Frank Hopkins contemplates leaving here for a few months in the interest of some mining property which he owns in another section of this district. It is very evident that Mr. Hopkins absence will be more marked than any other resident here for his house is the place of social meeting of the entire community here. Jew and Gentile, Saint and Sinner, and the descendants of royal and plebeian blood, without regard for rank and title meet to discuss the topics of the times.

If the report is authenticated that His Excellency Gov. Stevenson has approved House Bill No. 71 then we have the grateful assurance that the Honorable members of the Legislature are not all antediluvians, however, we cannot refrain from wishing the pleasure of reviewing Gov. Stevenson's conscientious scruples in rejecting Bill No. 38 on the grounds of "technical error".

Our sister territory Montana, is also legislating on the ponderous matter of "admitting" women to practice at the bar of justice. What stupendous subjects for mighty minds to grapple with! We presume they feel as mighty a responsibility devolving on them as was felt by the members of the Massachusetts Legislature, 100 years ago in the year 1789, when after many lengthy debates and heated discussions they passed a bill "permitting" women to teach in the public schools, but they have not remained teacher and missionaries as was originally intended, for in the year of 1825, old enlightened cultured Boston, in granting the privilege of higher education to women appropriated $2,000 for a girl's high school.[3]

This school became so popular that is was impossible to accommodate the numbers who flocked to it. The Mayor who's memory should be cherished for all time, then declared the enterprise a failure and abolished the school.

The marvelous genius of this wonderful man did not bankrupt the cause and to-day we have 529 institutions of learning giving Collegiate instruction to women. Colleges for men only 266, coeducational colleges 363, these include schools of Science, Theology, Law, Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmacy. The Big Letters, A.M., L.L.D. or Rev. Prof. and M.D. indicate the same standard of intellectual worth when written with the humble name of, Mary, as they do when appended to the more majestic name of William.

We have the faith to prophesy that when the year of 1900 rolls around it will find no "sectarianism" in religion, no "party" in patriotism, and no "sex" in citizenship.

J.A.C.__K.

I wrote that in earnest and meant it: no sects, no parties, no sex to divide us as we turned the corner into the twentieth century. Perhaps it was a tall order but I wasn’t alone in thinking it possible. Some things take longer than a generation to grow—but the seed was planted and we never stopped tending it. No sooner did I put down my quill, I made my way from Pine Creek to Shoup to gather more news.

The Idaho Recorder, February 28, 1889

SHOUP LETTER

Editress of the RECORDER:

The judge says, "Who'll be the next?" A good boom writer would find this location a favorable locality just now.

Dan Hurley has taken a wood contract for the Kentuck Company. Henry Westfall will move his family to his Big Creek ranch in a few weeks.

Many have taken advantage of the river being frozen over, and their wood piles have developed most wonderful dimensions.

Tom Palmer's grey hound Bing, made the best time on record from here to Pine Creek with a tinware attachment to his caudal appendage.[4]

Two young men disappeared from here quite mysteriously a few days ago. Investigation proved that Salmon City and the 22nd of Feb. had something to do with the cause which drew them away with such magnetic force.[5]

Jim Welsh is in town direct from Butte and is domiciled at Hotel de Sandilands. Mr. Welsh is one of the Standard miners of the Kentuck and meets with a universal welcome for the sake of "auld acquaintance."

Henry Roach and George Hurst started on the ice to go to Middle Fork but found the river so broken about 15 miles below they returned.

There is a beaming satisfaction on the countenance of Eli Suydam that is daily expanding, whether of consequence of what he has on the hill -- or expects to have we are unable to state.

The Grunter mine is still conducted in the "Good Old Way". They have not the encumbrances of "boss" or "boss-ee", nor the superfluous Supt. to maintain in dignified positions, as fitting their exalted positions in life, consequently when they have occasion to employ men they can afford to pay them living wages.

W.W. St. Clair has put up ice enough to keep a city delivery wagon running all next Summer. We have never yet had occasion to patronize such a business as Mr. St. Clair’s but on one occasion since September 6, we have been informed by a very fastidious friend that the wielding of our faber was considered one of our degenerating principles. Granting this and also that we may still continue in our downward course and so far partake of our surroundings as to acquire a taste so depraved that only the imbibing of the ardent can subdue - we will then take the opportunity to test a few mint juleps of Mr. St. Clair's.[6]

Mrs. Z.L. Merritt, who met with such a terrible accident a few months ago, is able to be out among her many friends again and is now visiting Pine Creek, the guest of Mr. and Mrs. J.M. Parfet. Mrs. Merritt is not one to succumb to obstacles however great their magnitude and with cheerful resignation has borne her suffering without a word of complaint. Her left arm, which it will be remembered was broken in three places and also the wrist badly crushed, she is now able to move a very little and it will in time, be of some benefit to her but the full use of the wrist will never be restored.

J.A.C.____K.

As I have already mentioned, Elizabeth Merritt’s granddaughter Tressa (Jerry and Mary Merritt’s daughter), would recall some of the details of her grandmother’s life within her own memories. This story details Elizabeth’s accident in perfect detail:

The first I can remember is a log house among the mountains on the Salmon River in Idaho. There was a small farm on what was called Spring Creek 2 1/2 miles from the mining town of Shoup. I lived with my grandparents. There were no wagon road closer than 50 miles. Only a trail blasted out of the side of the mountain just wide enough for one horse to travel with care.

There were no doctors nearer than Salmon City more than 50 miles away, as grandmother was a good practical nurse, she was called on for every thing from births to broken bones at all times of the day or night. One night she was sent for on a dark night.

The man walked ahead of the horse and carried a lighted lantern which seemed to blind the horse. He stumbled and rolled down the mountain side, throwing grandma breaking and mashing her arm in three places. When the horse was once more on the trail grandma mounted and went on to where she was needed, set her own arm and put it in splint with the help of the man with her and then took care of the patient.

Next day a doctor was sent for to set her arm. When he arrived he said it was put as good as he could have done, but her hand was mashed till it was never right.

Idaho Recorder, March 14, 1889

DROWNED

Geo. W. Hurst, a well-known resident of Shoup, was drowned on Monday while on his way home just across the river. He had been in the habit of crossing on the ice at this place frequently, but had been repeatedly warned of the danger, but disregarded the warning and when near the center of the river the ice gave way and he disappeared beneath the water and was seen no more.

Several citizens witnessed the accident but were unable to render any assistance to the doomed man. Deceased was about 45 or 46 years of age and had many friends in the neighborhood who will sincerely regret his sudden and terrible death.

THE PEOPLE’S COLUMN

This column will be devoted to the use of correspondents, but the editress of the Recorder will not endorse the sentiments of the writers nor be help responsible for the same.

J.A.C.__K IN THE PULPIT

Editress Recorder:

Franklin said: “They who have no voice in the rulers and laws under which they live are SLAVES.”[7]

Charles Sumner said: “Universal suffrage is the first proof and only basis of a genuine republic.”[8]

“Pig Iron Kelley,” who has served the people 28 years of his life in legislative halls, says “I see, that to exclude women from the political and moral councils of the day, is to strike from it its vital power.”[9]

Armed with a few of the vindictive views as have been expressed by some of our modern Solomons, we venture in opinion, pro or con as the case may be in regard to the local interest which are to be considered by our political sovereigns.

It has been asserted, or merely proposed, that the name of Col. Geo. L. Shoup would appear in the field in the coming gubernatorial campaign. We have no reason to doubt but that Col. Shoup is the embodiment of every principle requisite was said to filling a position of so great and of honor and public trust.[10]

“Our” recent experience proves that in making a choice to represent the people, it should be made regardless of any influence of power, which circumstances or conditions may give. When the R—“e”—v.[11] was sent to Boise city, probably had dawned on the minds of many that they were only to be the gainer by a little experience. It was not even presumed, than a man pledge to the best interest of the people by the vote which elected him would vote his chief influence to partisanship and the enforcing of liquor license bills. It has often been a subject of discussion with us when conversing with those having an earlier knowledge of the country than ourselves as to what was the cause of such utter stagnation in public enterprise, and when we have put the question direct, to individuals, the answer has invariably been “whisky.”

Right here we will explain that we are not identified with the prohibition party, for since traveling over the alkali plains of the West we have found that it takes something stronger than the unsullied dews of heaven to take the dust out of the throat, consequently we are a firm disciple of ‘the gospel of the grape.’ The compound called whiskey was never made to be of any use to anything either brute or human, and the most fitting place we can suggest for it is, the orthodox ‘Parson” of years gone by, should have added it to the attraction of the place he so famously pictured with his fire and brimstone religion. If the answer given to the question asked above is “whisky” then it is a very easy problem to solve, or trace from cause to effect.

Taking Salmon City for an example, its agricultural resources are favorable, it is adjacent in quartz-bearing mines of unlimited possibilities, but for a town of its age what can it claim in the way of public advantage? There is neither railroad or telegraph, telephone, or stage line, the latter probably suspended because the majority of the traveling public can only pay for their whiskey and then walk over the road while the stage line goes bankrupt.

The cost of such a lengthy delinquent tax list looming up at the end of the year may perhaps some time be trace to this source. According to this it is only a matter of time until whiskey owns the principal wealth of the county, then the whiskey fiends that are left should drown their existence in the sweet oblivion of the whisky barrel, and perhaps the next importation of civilization may start on a firmer basis.

If such a town as this can produce a Governor it certainly is a redeeming feature which might merit a favorable change in the public welfare. More than this, if Col. Shoup is a descendent of the grand old stock of womankind of which the State of Iowa is so boastfully proud, then crown his ripening years with a halo of honors which only the voice of the people can bestow.

Idaho Recorder, March 28, 1889

The river is open from here to Shoup, and they will begin to run boats next month.

An Italian came in on Monday’s coach who was unable to speak a word of English. After sitting forlornly around all day Tuesday he left for Shoup on Wednesday morning with Jack Crumley. Poor Jack! But he could talk to Mr. Italian just the same whether he could understand or not.

Idaho Recorder, Salmon City, April 11, 1889

The water in Salmon river is falling, an almost unheard of thing at this season.

A flat-boat left on Saturday noon for Shoup loaded with 20,000 pounds of freight for the Kentuck Co. D.V. Gilmer was engineering one sweep, while George Sandilands gracefully wielded the other. Frank P. Hard, Sam Herendeen and two others did the passenger act in grand style.

The Idaho Recorder, April 25, 1889

PINE CREEK LETTER

Apr. 15, 1889

Pine Creek predicts a booming as it never has boomed before. J.M. Parfet is building a hen coral.[12]

Frank Hopkins has gone to work on his mining claims up the river above Indian Creek.

Jack Young is one of the new employees of Pine Creek Mining Co.

Mr. Ortez of Gibbonsville is delivering beef for W.W. St. Clair on this route.

New onions the size of hen eggs were brought here on the 10th instance from Henry Westfall's ranch on Big Creek.

Including Messrs. McLeod and McCullough and ladies, five families were represented in visiting at Z.L. Meritt's ranch near Shoup on the 7th instance.

Since Frank Hopkins departure the male fraternity have engaged in progressive amusements as a means of diverting their thoughts from dwelling too longingly on their closed retreat.

A species of wolf or wild dog or some other diabolical mongrel has taken up his howling abode in this vicinity making night hideous with his demon like yowls. The night shirt militia have been very persevering in their endeavors to annihilate him but his "dogship" still roams at his own sweet will.

J.M. Parfet of the Pine Creek Mining Co. now holds the position of General Manager in place of O.W. Mintzer. Mr. Parfet has already employed a few men and he is also authority for the announcement that work will be resumed by the Co. at once, or as soon as the extensive consignments of supplies can be safely floated down river.

Our camp has presented a most picturesque scene for the past two weeks reminding one of the "Good Old Times,” when sturdy Yeomanry tilled the soil as the primitive occupation of man.

Firs of fallen timber have burned day and night, irrigating ditches have been cut around and across "the flat", old fences taken down and new ones put in their places, and if this wilderness doesn’t blossom as the rose, it will not be because our grangers have not been enthusiastically performed their part.

One of the company oxen died a few weeks ago and his lingering mate only survived him a few days. An inquest was held by Dr. Johnson and a verdict rendered as follows: Animals of the bovine genus are not constituted on the Dr. Tanner principle,[13] consequently, death was caused by prolonged starvation. It is not probable that the ghost of Henry Berg will ever come down the Salmon River, but a certain party should pursue a pact of Holy Writ which teaches that a "merciful man is merciful to his beast."

Mrs. J.A. Callahan

The Idaho Recorder, April 25, 1889

SHOUP LETTER

Shoup, Idaho Apr 18, 1889

Among the new arrivals in town are Messrs., McLaflin and Dyer, of Butte. Henry Johnson from Big Creek, Johnnie Gibbs - who has just returned from a trip to Dillon - and Thos. Wright.

The bold navigators, Messrs. Gilmer and Sandilands, safely landed their cargo of freight for the Kentuck Co. and four passengers on the morning of the 3rd day from Salmon City.

A raffle will be conducted at the Saloon of Roach and Gibbs after 6 O'clock on the evening of Saturday May 4, 1889. This is no old horse raffle with only his hide to bequeath to the winner, but all "straight goods" of marketable value. No postponement on account of the weather, politics, or religion or any other raging element.

W.W. St. Clair has completed a Summer residence on Spring Creek above Merritt's ranch and has been living there since the 20th of last month. Mrs. Grundy says another wedding is on the tapis,[14] but this statement cannot be proved by your humble servant.

Property transfers are not too numerous to mention, Tommy Pound has bought of "English Harry" the thoroughbred buckskin steed Indian, who will probably introduce his new owner to a few acrobatic performances which he spasmodically indulges in.

To Let. One bath house, one laundry, one saloon, 2 stables and 3 dwelling houses. Inquire of downtown agents. Owners have gone into the country for the summer.

Mrs. J.A. Callahan

Idaho Recorder, May 16, 1889

May 1, 1889

A PINE CREEK OUTING

All the phase of a pleasure trip are never known until experienced on horseback over a pony trail in the Rocky Mountains. Alpine journeys may be toilsome, picturesque or even romantic, but we can positively claim never included such a promiscuous group as left Pine Creek for Hot Springs on the 26th. Our human freight numbered thirteen and consisted of the following named: Mr. and Mrs. Palmer and little Jimmy, Master Johnie and Thos. Palmer, Mr. and Mrs. McCullough, Mr. and Mrs. McLeod, Mr. and Mrs. J.A. Callahan and the notorious young cowboy Eddy, and his sister Alta. Our four footed companions were:

Venerable Butcher and Bronco Billy

Faithful Mae and Prancing Lilly

Black roan George and gray horse, Jim

The grey hounds Nell and Keno followed him

There was white foot Daisy and trusty Buck

The tried and true for all good luck

Old race horse Nelse made up the host

His form resembling a walking ghost.

Without any mishaps of note we reached the springs in time for a 3 O'clock dinner. The only abode for accommodation of man or beast was a 7 x 9 cabin with a bunk the length of the one side of it, a fire place in the corner and a door with a sliding board in it to keep out the snow in Winter and let the light in in Summer. We cannot testify as to the medicinal efficacy of the Springs but found in them every requisite for removing the dust of travel.They are situated on the top of a mountain side, the water flowing from them directly down a steep incline into a ravine below, which is walled up on the opposite side by a perpendicular mountain cleft. Being located in this manner it would be almost an impossibility ever to make any improvements on them, except at an immense cost. The entire mountain is apparently of granite formation, and the geological student would find here an interesting point of research.

The next morning the male portion of our party set out on a fishing expedition but informed those they thought they were leaving behind, that if they would like to take a walk during the day to go to the top of a certain mountain in the distance and they would get a glimpse of the fine landscape adjacent to Big Creek.

This part of the program had already been agreed upon by the poor innocents, but being under the impression that they were out on a pleasure trip, they had no intention of distinguishing themselves as pedestrians. Therefore as soon as their Hege Lords had departed they drove in the equine herd, selected their choice of steeds and Mrs. McCullough and ye scribe, explored the surrounding country in saddle.[15] About a mile and a half from the Springs we forded the muddy water of Big Creek, and just across this stream was the deserted Camp of Dynamo, which is nearly three miles from the Salmon River.

Finding the remains of a wagon road we went up the creek another mile and a half and came to the ranch of Henry Westfall, where we were most hospitably entertained by Mrs. Westfall. They have a very commodious and substantial new house and Mr. Westfall is farming with all the ardor of a Pioneer settler. On our return we forded the creek at Dynamo and visited the deserted village, which calls to mind the lines of Goldsmith:

"But now the sounds of population fall,

No cheerful murmurs fluctuate on the gale

No busy steps the grass-grown footway tread,

But all the blooming lush of life has fled."[16]

The circumstances with the connection of the rise and fall of this town may never fill a page of poetry or prose, but in viewing it over, there is food for reflection and room for sentiment. The lone grave[17 on the mountain side mirrors in the mind the oft repeated scene, i.e.:

"To see ten thousand baneful arts combined

To pamper luxury and thin mankind."[18]

The work of devastation shows that the mills of justice sometimes grind as swiftly as surely[19]

J.A.C.__K

Idaho Recorder, June 6, 1889

PINE CREEK LETTER

Pine Creek, May 29, 1889

Editress Recorder:

See us boom! First a matrimonial boom, then a grangers' boom, and now a mining boom.

If you want any information or advice morally, socially, financially or otherwise, ask Frank Ferguson.

The last remaining pair of oxen belonging to the Pine Creek Co. are now in the yoke eleven hours per day working on holy language and goad-stick persuasion.

Splinney & Slaven's pack train started for Salmon City this morning via the Hot Springs, Big creek and Leesburg. Break the news gently and tell him Biddy got the 100 pounds of "pertnters" gratis cartage, which makes her feel almost of as much consequence as if she lived in a house with a big C appendage.[20]

Mrs. Spinney was obliged to abandon the ill-fated freight boat at North Fork and made the remainder of her journey here on horse back, which was preferable to a passage with a cargo of Salmon river water.

The last remaining pair of oxen belonging to the Pine Creek Co. are now in the yoke eleven hours per day working on holy language.

H.G. Rood now has the contract for furnishing beef here. He made the first trip of the season over the divide from Leesburg with jack horses loaded with beef, starting at 12 o'clock at night. He got here in time for breakfast, although having to shovel his horses out of the snow a number of times on the way.

The Salmon river is about a thousand pounds sweeter than it was a week ago and corned fish can be caught anywhere between Deadwater and Pine creek.[21]

Thos. Palmer and James McCullough returned from Napias creek where they have been doing the assessment work on some claims which they have there.

Eli Suydam will make a run of ore from his mine at the Pine Creek’s Co. mill.

The Pine Creek Co. is now employing a force of from 15 to 25 men, and will make their first clean-up tomorrow. Report says that the result of this clean up is to decide as it did before as to whether work shall be resumed or discontinued, but this remains to be proved.

Idaho Recorder, Salmon City - June 13, 1889

W.E. Taylor who has been visiting relatives at Crescent Mills, Plumas county, California returned to this city by last night and will leave for Shoup in a day or two.

Idaho Recorder, Salmon City June 27th, 1889

The flat-boat with 20,000 pounds of freight left the Main Street wharf on Saturday for Shoup with Messrs. Gilmer and Labricque at the helm.

Idaho Recorder, July 4,1889

PINE CREEK DOINGS

Distinguished Arrivals Will Celebrate the National Holiday

A Private Party Goes Down the River,

Either or Wedding or Otherwise

Some Fine Beef - Eli Suydam's "Nancy Lee" Averages $60 Per Ton

A Band of "Regulators” From - En Route for Salmon City

Pine Creek, June 30, 1889

Editress Recorder:

The oracle "took a tumble.”[22]

The new arrivals in town during the past week were Messrs. Pope, Finnegan, Bell and Skinner.

This camp will celebrate the National holiday by listening to the big guns in Shoup.

"Expert" Carol and Jack Gilmer are making frequent trips up and down the creek looking very wise. If this indicates an omen of success they have probably found "the goose that lays the golden egg.”

A private party started down the river yesterday morning, their destination unknown. Reporters and correspondents were strictly prohibited, therefore an account of the trip is unavoidably deferred.[23]

H.G. Rood has driven in some fine looking cattle to his range here this Summer, and will kill them as the beef is required to supply the camp.

Forty-five tons of ore taken from the Eli Suydam's mine the "Nancy Lee", averages sixty dollars to the ton. This mine was found by George Hurst when prospecting for Mark Ainslie, and Mr. Suydam bought it about six months ago. Ye multitude of prospectors go and do likewise, that the prophesies of the many may be fulfilled.

With the breaking of the dawn this morning everybody in the camp is on the qui vive.[24] Unfortunately our place of observation is some distance from the scene of action, and it is hard to tell as the promiscuous gathering slowly form into line whether to us a band of "Horribles"[25] they’re days ahead of the 4th out on parade, or a delegation from Nauvoo on their way to the land of the Saints.[26] On getting a nearer inspection I found it to be our worthy neighbors en route for Salmon City to spend the Fourth. The party consisted of Mr. and Mrs. Parfet and Master Guy, H.G. Rood and son; Geo. Sandilands, Robt. Bell and Thos.Finnegan. We wish them bon voyage, a grand celebration and if they like they can stay over Christmas.

Y-Know

That spring and well into early summer the river ran so low it might have been dry. Well, that’s an overstatement—but it was certainly lower than any old-timer could recall in all his years. A sure warning sign that drought and a fierce fire season could be next.

Thomas Wend, well settled on his 200 acres beside the river near Hale’s Gulch east of Shoup, showed his frontier grit by planting a veritable orchard—one hundred trees strong: peaches, pears, plums, cherries, and apples both standard and crab, all staking their claim as if wanting the best view of the river.

Come early July, the town of Hailey, Idaho, was nearly swallowed by flames. The business district downtown was reduced to ashes, while the wild mountains of Lemhi County began to smoke and blaze, as if the earth itself were taking exacting revenge.

Jimmy grew restless and began discussing a prospecting trip with Mark Quinliven.

Idaho Recorder, Salmon City, August 1, 1889

We would caution our readers to be very careful of fire. The numerous first fires on the mountains near by is destroying thousand of acres of good pine timber.

The smoke has been so dense the past week as to obscure the sun mornings and evenings, the solar orb appearing like a great copper globe at midday. There is no reason why these timber fires could not be prevented. It is used wholly through negligence and carelessness.

Idaho Recorder, Salmon City, August 8, 1889

Frank Ferguson, of Pine creek arrived in town on Thursday and spent a few days taking in the sights of this lovely burg.

Tommy Boyle and wife will return to Shoup after 3 days and wife will remain for some time.

The Salmon river is lower now than was ever known within the memory of the “oldest inhabitant.”

A flat-boat loaded with iron pipe for the Pine Creek mill, and merchandise for the Kentuck Co., left here yesterday morning.

The flat-boat that left here on Wednesday morning was hung up high and dry on a rock about 5 or 6 miles below here at last accounts.

Idaho Recorder, Salmon City August 15, 1889

E.S. Suydam returned from Butte, on last Sunday. He reports the weather much cooler there than here and the atmosphere comparatively clear of smoke. Mr. S left for Shoup via the trail on Tuesday morning.

A strike was recently made in the lower tunnel of the Kentuck mine at Shoup, disclosing a large body of richer ore than ever seen before in even this famous producer of the yellow metal.

Idaho Recorder, August 22, 1889

PINE CREEK LETTER

Aug. 16, 1889

Editress Recorder:
Prospectors, straying bands of cayuses and rattlesnakes are the principal summer attractions here. Messrs. Myers, Palmer and McCullough are washing the "golden sands" on the Salmon river below the mouth of the Pine creek.[27]

Mark Quinliven, a miner and prospector, and J.A. Callahan are making a migratory trip through Custer county via Leesburg, Napias creek and the Yellow Jacket.

The freight boat containing the pipe for the Pine Creek Co. reached its destination about 6 o'clock Saturday evening, the 10th instant. The boatmen came "up town" to inform the Co. of their arrival, and on their return found that their fickle craft had parted moorings and drifted down to the Pine creek rapids and stranded on a rock. Had it not been for the extreme low stage of water, boat and cargo would still have been floating down the river.

"Sam Bull" has taken up his unwelcome abode on Pine creek and as his fame had come before him, consternation reigns supreme. He has killed a horse and if his good intentions had not been thwarted a number of other would have shared the same fate. His horns are now supplied with a small piece of timber which will be a great help to him in breaking the bones of his victims.

As "we" are making such rapid strides toward statehood, and endeavoring to construct more humane and civilized laws to live under, it is to be hoped that some time in the near future the owner of such bloodthirsty brutes will be compelled to keep them within proper limits, so that the lives of people or their property shall not be jeopardy by their lawless rampage.

The smoke still continues to pour in upon us, and we are as completely enveloped in the dusky cloud as we would be in "down east" fog on the sea board. For the past four weeks the suns' rays have glimmered through the filmy haze, and there is no present indication of any change in the four weeks to come. This fire, its origin unknown, started near the head of Indian creek, probably about 10 miles from the Salmon river; from this point it has ranged in three directions, its first course towards Gibbonsville, second down Indian creek and crossing the river, and third some distance back in the hills, but running towards Shoup.

After crossing the river near the mouth of Indian creek, its main course tended up river instead of down, and thus by a wise provision of Providence - or a fortunate freak of the overpowering elements - the dense and valuable timber tract opposite Tom Wend's ranch was saved. The third course passed Wend's place in the hills just south of his house and crossed the river again, about midway between Wend's ranch and Z.L. Merritt's ranch. This time after crossing the river it burned completely over W.W. St. Clair's cattle range, and is still burning in this vicinity on both sides of the river. Thus far Mr. St. Clair is the only one who has been discommoded by the fire bug, and he has been obliged to drive his cattle out to another range.

Aside from the burning over of the stock range, we know of no other damage being done in this locality. A vast expanse of undergrowth, including the scrub pine and fir scattered over the hills has been licked up by the flames, and now presents a dreary waste to look upon, but no valuable timber has been destroyed. We do not anticipate any danger in this camp or at Shoup, as in either place a bucket brigade can be summoned at any time sufficient to protect all property, and in any case the rise and fall of real estate would not be greatly affected.

NOTICE

For Shoup and Gibbonsville

E.P. Hayes, dentist, will visit Shoup and Gibbonsville between August 26th and September 3rd. Those wishing dental work done had better call on him on his arrival for his time will be short, as he intends to return here on Sept. 3.

Idaho Recorder, September 12, 1889

SHOUP LETTER

Shoup, September 4, 1889

Editress Recorder:

The Grunter mill closed down on the 17th last, for lack of water.

Mrs. Z.L. Merritt and granddaughter, Tressa, are sojourning for a few days at Pine creek.

Tommy Stevens has bought an interest in W.W. St. Clair's band of cattle and will hereafter count one among Lemhi's cattle men.

Whiskey and Salmon river navigation winds up with about the same results as the plan of trying to pass railroad trains on the same track.

Tommy Pound and Johnny Rowe have gone to Pine creek in the employ of the company. Mr. Rowe takes charge of the mill as amalgamator.[28]

Jerry Merritt has returned from an extended trip through Washington Territory and Oregon. He reports times very dull in the Coeur d'Alenes.

George Sandilands and Robert Bell, owners of the Brittanic and one or two other mines near the Grunter, are building an arrastra on Pine creek, a short distance from the river.

Mr. Bell is the only one of our townsmen who spent last Winter East, to be present at the Inauguration at Washington D.C., and to give the hand of greeting to the chief magistrate of our nation. Mr. Bell's trip was one of profit as well as pleasure; having gone early enough in the Fall to attend a course at Bryant & Stratton's Commercial College. After its completion he visited the Capitol, the great city of Philadelphia, and even after dining at Delmonico's in the Empire State, he comes back to this solitary nook of the Rocky mountains and bides the fare of the pioneer taking up the pick and drill from choice in the race for the "almighty dollar."

Thos. Boyle and family are moving into their newly furnished hotel on Main Street today.

On September 13th Hon. J.P. Clough, of Junction, will ship from Red Rock a car load of his fine horses to the St. Louis Fair.

Thos. K. Andrews and wife have moved from the Hot Springs and for the present are domiciled at the former residence of Deloe Simons, on upper Main street at the "Big Silver Dollars".

F.W. Numann[29] and family, who have lived on Kentuck Hill for the past 14 months have moved back to their home here and will probably remain for Winter.

The work of development on the Pine Creek Co. mines is steadily yielding favorable results. From this fact we gain the assurance to state that by the time the Salmon River Railroad gets here we shall have a town not to be outranked by any other mining precinct of Lemhi.[30]

Messrs. Slaven & Spinney the owners of the train are packing ore for E.S. Suydam from the Clipper-Bullion mine to the Pine Creek mill. We predict that Jehosaphat, Methuselah and Nebuchadnezzar and the remainder of this holy band, will make a good many more trips from Salmon City here before their services are discarded by the advent of the iron horse.

About two weeks ago some unknown miscreant shot and killed an ox belonging the the Pine Creek Co. Viewing the subject from a philanthropic side, it is a mercy that the sufferings of the famished brute are ended, but there is no faction of opinion either public or private, believing that such a spirit of philanthropy exists here, therefore, there could have been but one motive for the perpetration of such a deed; and if we may be allowed to use language more forcible than elegant, it is simply a clear case of unadulterated cussedness.

Geo. Sandilands "Topsey," saddles and bridled, was escorted across the river at Tom Wend's ranch and given instructions to take the short cut over the divide to this range on Pine creek. With a rider the trip can be made very leisurely within two hours, but "Topsey" it seems was not craving Pine creek society - and was just 24 hours on the way.

Johnson's pack train is daily expected with supplies for the Pine Creek Co.

Salmon City, LOCAL INTELLIGENCE

A rich strike was recently made in the Clipper-Bullion mine at Pine Creek, owned by E. Suydam. The ore is free gold and is so thickly sprinkled with the yellow metal that a specimen can hardly be found which does not show gold to the naked eye. We are always glad to chronicle the success of such enterprising and industrious gentleman as Eli Suydam, and we hope and trust the Clipper-Bullion may make him a millionaire.

Another flat-boat loaded with freight for the Kentuck Company left for Shoup on Friday morning, having on board Mrs. J. Gilmer, her son Salisbury and Miss Emma Merritt as passengers, with C.V. Gilmer and George Sandilands manipulating the sweeps. Notwithstanding the low stage of the water, they made the trip safely arriving at their destination the afternoon of the second day.

Idaho Recorder, September 26, 1889

PINE CREEK LETTER

Pine Creek, Sept. 19, 1889

Editress Recorder:

Our prophecy still holds true in regard to our smoky surroundings and for another month we have lived under a process of disinfection.

We admire the basic principle upon which the Red Lodge Picket[31] is founded and hope every stroke of its magic faber will bring a shower of "Our" Constitution is gratefully received as a document worthy of perusal. In declaring allegiance to the Constitution of the United States in Sec. 2 Art. I. are included the grandest principles which form the magna carta of human liberties, and they could have been more logically sustained if 36 of the Honorable members had been as "level-headed" as the 20 who voted in the affirmative on the bill relating to the franchise. Now, with a most sincere good will to all, we will ask the worthy question, and that is under what heading of Sec. 3 Art. VI, do they include such as "Yours truly.”—J.A.C__K

Mark Quinliven and Jimmy had been gone more than a month and the smoke hadn’t lifted since. I kept my hands full with the children and the garden—what harvest was left to do—but my mind wasn’t easy. Truth of the matter, we hadn’t parted on the best of terms. The silence from far off in the mountains echoed louder than any shout.

News from Maine indicated that Mother had gone west to visit Leland and Edna in California, leaving Father, Millie and fifteen-year-old Jennie to mind things at home. Jennie was none too happy about being left behind. Samuel was still in Waterville, tending to his education like a dutiful son.[32] Alta, and Clyde were still unmarried, so Father wouldn’t be entirely alone.

But I surely was.

Idaho Recorder, September 26th 1889

$100 REWARD $100

The Pine Creek Mining Company will pay the above reward for the arrest and conviction or any information that will lead to the arrest and conviction of the party or parties who SHOT one of their OXEN on or about the 15th of July, and again on the night of September 5th, 1889

JOHN M. PAREFT, SUPERINTENDENT

Idaho Recorder, October 10,1889

LOCAL INTELLIGENCE

Wm. Nieman and wife, of Pine creek, visited this city and made a social call at the Recorder office yesterday.

A big fire occurred in Butte Montana on Sept 29, which resulted in a loss of half a million dollars. The fire started in a new building in course of construction and is supposed to be incendiary.[33]

A heavy rain storm set in early yesterday morning and continued at intervals during the day, and at last the dust is settled. This is our first rain we have had to settle the dust for about six months. The snow fell... loose as though Winter was here and had come to stay.

Idaho Recorder, October 17, 1889

PINE CREEK LETTER

Pine Creek, October 12, 1889

Editress Recorder:

At last the smoky veil is lifted and the clear blue canopy of heaven greets our unrestricted view.

A number of the Pine Creek Company employees are migrating to other quarters for the Winter.

It is reported that J.M. Parfet will have a freight boat constructed in Salmon City, and brought here with supplies for the company.

Joshua Brown and wife are at present occupying rooms in the company house. This is Mrs. Brown's first experience in a mining camp and for her sake, we would gladly welcome a few more neighbors as genial as she.

Mr. and Mrs. Nieman, returning from Salmon City a few days ago, encountered a snow storm on the divide, which some-what congealed the ardor of a pleasure trip.

Who knows what has become of W.W. St. Clair? The sonorous voice of the well-known stock, lush with the "black snake" accompaniment, is no longer heard in the land, and cattle roam where so'er they will.[35]

Johnnie Gibbs, of Shoup, has returned from a Summer trip East, and now bears the more polished manner of one who has associated with the residents of the metropolitan towns.

Apparently there is not a more amusing surprise for two men than to be visited by a representative of the press, when thinking themselves located so far within the continuous wilds as to afford a sufficient barrier to such intruders. Messrs. Couiter and Ervin, miners and prospectors from Montana, have made a camp on upper Pine creek and will remain for the Winter.

The arastra owned by Bell & Sandilands is nearing completion and they will commence running ore in a few days.

E.S. Suydam is cleaning up another run of his ore from the Clipper Bullion mine and from all accounts he is reaping a golden harvest.

O.B. Gross is the first to break the schedule of exorbitant prices, and supplies from his store are now being shipped in here at rates that are a boon to all.

Henry Roach and C.V. Gilmer were the only parties from Shoup to attend the auction sale at the Haidee Mine. H.G. Rood drove them to Shoup and sold them on sight to J.T. Gilmer for the Kentuck Co.

F.W. Nieman had the misfortune to lose a valuable horse which was found dead on the range.

Your correspondent also grieves the loss of a favorite pony that was too securely tethered by a picket rope. The fervent benediction of her owner and only adorer, will accompany her to that eternal paradise of her kind, where picket ropes are unknown, and the voice of command never heard.

"And had she not high honor?
The hillside for a path
To he in state while other wait,

With stars for tapers tall!
And the dark rock pines,
like tossing plumes,
Over her bier to wave,
And her owner's hand
in this lone land,
To lay her in her grave."[35]]

J.A.C__K

Idaho Recorder, November 28, 1889

Salmon City, LOCAL INTELLIGENCE

Ben Harrison and John Richardson, of the Grunter Mill and Mining Company of Shoup, came up from that burg on Thursday. Mr. Harrison, who has been ill for the past months with a complication of lung trouble,[36] left on Saturday’s coach en route for Boise City where he goes for professional treatment by Dr. Dubois.

Idaho Recorder, December 12, 1889

Salmon City, LOCAL INTELLIGENCE

Bob Lynn, Z.L. Merritt, Jack Ralston, George Sandilands of Shoup are in Salmon.

Thos. Palmer of Pine creek in Shoup, left for Sandy creek where he is working for McKillip Bros. mill.

As Christmas Eve settled over the valley of Pine Creek, I bundled the children into our sled and with a kindly friend guiding the horses, made our way up to Sam James’ cabin for warmth and company. I’d promised Ada Merritt that before the New Year’s edition went to press, she’d see the History of the Downriver Mines hot off the type—Sam alone held the recollections of quartz strikes and bold discoveries. He recounted every detail of his and his comrades’ goldseeking ventures while I scribbled them all down by lamplight.[37]

Outside snow muffled the world—inside only Sam’s gruff voice, the children’s sleepy breathing and the scratch of my pen. And yet, as I watched the flickering firelight dance, I felt the full weight of a year gone by: James never returned from that late summer prospecting trip and I started having doubts that he ever would.

Notes

[1] Annie recounts a meeting on the narrow winter trail between two groups—one traveling on foot from Shoup the other from Pine Creek on a sleigh. Her playful phrasing (“pedestrian train” and “upriver special”) mimics the language of railroads and public transit, applied here to rustic winter travel. The “unceremonious doffing of pugilistic plumes” likely refers to the obligatory removal of hats—a traditional sign of respect—as the sleigh riders passed the pedestrians. By calling them “pugilistic plumes,” Annie gently mocks any swagger or bravado, suggesting that if tempers or pride flared, they were quickly subdued by the demands of politeness (or trail etiquette). In her dry style, the only “notable” part of the meeting was this symbolic disarmament.

[2] Ice cut from the frozen river and packed in sawdust in an ice house could last through the heat of summer.

[3] Annie refers here to two bills debated by the Idaho Territorial Legislature in early 1889. House Bill No. 71 was likely related to the admission of women to the practice of law—a topic then under active debate across the western territories. Her sarcastic relief that the legislators were “not all antediluvians” (i.e., not entirely prehistoric in their thinking) stands in contrast to her evident frustration over the rejection of House Bill No. 38, which Governor Stevenson vetoed on the grounds of a “technical error.” In the paragraph that follows, Annie draws a biting comparison to Massachusetts in 1789, when lawmakers finally “permitted” women to teach in public schools after lengthy debate—a decision she treats as both belated and foretelling of women’s broader public ambitions. Her tone is wry and unrelenting, rooted in the belief that women’s rights should not require generations of permission slips.

[4] Tom Palmer’s dog, Bing, apparently became the target of a common 19th-century prank: tying a tin can to a dog’s tail. The resulting clatter usually prompted the dog to bolt in panic, running at top speed in a futile attempt to escape the noise. Annie’s formal phrasing—“tinware attachment to his caudal appendage”—elevates the slapstick into mock-scientific prose, making the scene all the more absurd. Bing’s record-setting dash from Shoup to Pine Creek likely left both dog and bystanders thoroughly rattled.

[5] On the evening of February 22nd, Salmon City’s 2nd Annual Ball was held where for $4 you could have dinner and a dance.with a young lady.

[6] Annie notes she hasn’t visited Mr. St. Clair’s saloon since early September. A “fastidious friend” accuses her not of drinking, but of literary degeneracy—prompting her to joke that if she continues her downward slide, she may one day need a mint julep to steady her moral compass.

[7] In actuality Benjamin Franklin said, “Those who would give up essential Liberty, to purchase a little temporary Safety, deserve neither Liberty nor Safety.” The idea that lack of representation equates to slavery more directly reflects Revolutionary era petitions such as the First North Carolina Provincial Congress’s “no representation, no taxation” resolves. Annie’s adaptation echoes this spirit, even if the exact wording isn’t Franklin’s.

[8] Charles Sumner (1811–1874) was a leading U.S. Senator from Massachusetts, a radical Republican and one of the foremost abolitionists of his era. He served in the Senate from 1851 until his death in 1874, chaired the Foreign Relations Committee during the Civil War and famously endured a violent caning on the Senate floor for his antislavery stance en.wikipedia.org. The “Universal suffrage is the first proof and only basis of a genuine republic” line is universally attributed to Sumner and is quoted—without specific sourcing—in Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Susan B. Anthony’s History of Woman Suffrage (Vol. 4), where it appears as part of a wider argument for voting rights during the Reconstruction era en.m.wikisource.orgen.wikisource.org. While the exact speech transcript isn’t easily traceable in Sumner’s collected papers, it reflects his well documented belief that extending the franchise was essential to the republic’s health. In short: Yes, this was a sentiment he expressed (and which suffrage leaders of the 1860s confidently attributed to him), even if no verbatim manuscript survives under that precise wording.

[9] “PigIron Kelley” was the nickname of William D. Kelley (1814–1 890), a long-time Congressman from Pennsylvania and fierce advocate of protective tariffs on iron and steel—a stance so core to his identity that he avoided imported goods entirely . A longtime ally of Lincoln and champion of abolition, Black suffrage, and progressive governance, Kelley’s assertion—that excluding women from political and moral life robs society of its “vital power”—reflects his broad commitment to inclusion and equality.

[10] George Laird Shoup (1836–1904) was a Civil War veteran, entrepreneur and the first Governor of the State of Idaho. Born in Pennsylvania, he moved west to Colorado in 1860 and then the Salmon River country in Idaho Territory, where he built lumber and mining interests. A committed Republican, Shoup served as the last Governor of Idaho Territory (1889–1890) and then, upon statehood in July 1890, became Idaho’s inaugural state governor. Later that year he was appointed—and in 1891 elected—to the U.S. Senate, where he served until 1901, advocating for western development, veterans’ pensions and protective tariffs. After leaving public office, he remained active in business until his death in Boise in 1904.

[11] Olin Mintzer, who won his election as a territorial representative, was a Reverend before and after his residence in Lemhi County.

[12] Annie is being sarcastic. Parfet was the Superintendent of the Pine Creek Mines, but has time to build a chicken yard for his wife.

[13] Dr. Henry S. Tanner, an eccentric homeopathic doctor once fasted for 40 days and nights and held to the notion that a man could hibernate for eight years.

[14] “On the tapis” is a borrowed French expression meaning “on the table” or “under discussion.” In 19th-century usage, it often signaled a rumor or social matter being talked about, especially in polite or gossipy circles. Annie invokes Mrs. Grundy—the fictional embodiment of societal judgment—to report on local wedding rumors, while coyly denying any firsthand knowledge.

[15] Annie refers to the men as “Hege Lords” in playful mockery—likely a satirical twist on “hedge lords” or “lords of the outing,” poking fun at their assumed leadership of the pleasure trip. Once the self-appointed “lords” depart, Annie and her companion take matters into their own hands, saddle up, and ride out to explore—subverting expectations with typical frontier flair.

[16] An excerpt from The Deserted Village, by poet Oliver Goldsmith.

[17] Red MacKay or McKee, the saloon keeper and miner that was killed at Dynamo in ’86.

[18] Line from the Deserted Village, by poet Oliver Goldsmith.

[19] See Chapter 5, Hell Was Just Over the Hill, Camp Dynamo

[20] Annie often poked fun at social status and here she may be referring to herself in the third person as “Biddy”—a term commonly used in the 19th century to describe Irish servant women. After receiving a 100-pound shipment of potatoes (“pertnters”) from the Splinney & Slaven pack train without paying for delivery (“gratis cartage”), she jokes that it makes her feel nearly as important as if she lived in a grand home with a “big C appendage”—perhaps mocking the naming conventions of having a respectable sign, signifying the Callahan ranch.

[21] Annie remarks that the Salmon River is “a thousand pounds sweeter” than the week before, likely referencing a recent freight spill. There was no need to freight salted fish, with the river and creeks teeming with fresh catch. Her phrasing suggests the river is “sweeter” in the sense of being more rewarding—locals along the stretch between Deadwater and Pine Creek could now fish up barrels or crates that had found their way to shore. In typical fashion, Annie blends practical observation with dry frontier humor.

[22] According to family lore, Annie suffered a fall from a horse that left a lasting scar on her forehead. This incident may be a nod to that mishap—wrapped, as usual, in humor.

[23] While Annie’s tone playfully registers frustration at being excluded from the “private party” down the river, it’s likely the secrecy was practical: prospectors often traveled quietly to protect new claims from rivals. Reporters and correspondents were strictly prohibited to maintain discretion. Moreover, the arduous return trip would have been on foot—after navigating the river—making the journey both difficult and uninviting for all but the hardiest. Annie’s deferment of an account may thus reflect both social exclusion and the rugged realities of frontier prospecting.

[24] The phrase “on the qui vive” comes from French, meaning “on the alert” or “watchful.”

[25] The phrase originates from 18th- and 19th-century American and British tradition, where “Horribles” were amateur military or social clubs known for satirical, often ridiculous uniforms or behavior during parades and events.

[26] A reference to Mormons

[27] “Washing the golden sands” refers to panning for placer gold—sluicing river sediments to separate out flecks of gold. In regions like Pine Creek, finding placer gold often signals nearby quartz veins in the mountains, pointing prospectors toward potential lode deposits.

[28] An amalgamator in mining is a worker or device operator who mixes crushed ore with mercury to form an amalgam, a process by which gold or silver particles bind to the mercury. The amalgam is then heated (retorted) to vaporize the mercury, leaving behind the precious metal. In frontier camps an amalgamator was essential to recovering fine gold from quartz or placer ore. Though widely used the amalgamation process was toxic—mercury exposure was hazardous and environmental effects would linger long after the ore was gone.

[29] Probably Fredrick William Nieman, a German emmigrant who was married Elzina “Ella” Caroline Frary.

[30] While there would never be a Salmon River Railroad, surveys of the canyon by railroad companies continued into the early 1900s.

[31] The Red Lodge Picket was a newspaper published in Red Lodge, Montana, beginning in 1889. Annie offers her approval of the paper’s founding principles and expresses hope that every stroke of its editor’s “magic faber” (i.e., pen) will produce worthy work. She also notes that a document—likely titled “Our Constitution”—was “gratefully received,” suggesting it had been enclosed or reprinted in the paper and found worthy of serious attention. As usual, Annie delivers her commentary with a blend of sincere praise and stylized literary flair.

[32] Rockland Courier-Gazette, October 1, 1889, page 6. The ‘Keag. Dean Graves, who is attending college in Waterville, is at the home of his father, E. S. Graves. Mrs. E. S. Graves started Thursday on a trip to California where she will spend the winter with her children.

[33] Rumors spread, some saying the fire in Butte was likely due to arson.

[34] “Black snake” was frontier slang for a long, braided whip—often called a bullwhip or stock whip—used by drovers and peddlers to herd livestock or punctuate their calls. Its sharp crack would have accompanied W.W. St. Clair’s booming voice as he drove stock or hawked his ice through the valley.

[35] Lines from The Burial of Moses by female poet, Cecil Frances Alexander.

[36] Silicosis is a chronic and often fatal lung disease caused by inhaling fine particles of silica dust—common in mining, particularly during drilling, blasting and crushing of quartz-rich rock. In Annie’s time it was often called “miner’s consumption,” “miner’s lung”or simply “dust disease.” The fine silica particles scarred the lungs over time, leading to chronic coughing, shortness of breath and eventual respiratory failure. The condition was poorly understood in the 1880s, and protections were virtually nonexistent in the deep shafts and dry mills of western mining camps.

[37] To read the History of the Downriver Mines, see Chapter One.