Existing comment:
The Tunnel Builders:
Imagine if you came to this remote site just after arriving off the boat from Europe. The Irish and German workers who built the Paw Paw Tunnel were housed at this location in simple tents and small wooden houses, provided food and a ration of whiskey daily. In return they worked in difficult and sometimes hazardous conditions. The laborers faced cholera epidemics, financial shortages affecting when and if they got their pay, and friction among co-workers that led to labor riots. For fourteen long years from 1836 to 1850, work continued to complete the Paw Paw Tunnel. |