This huge project would require workers, skilled and unskilled, by the thousands.

Workers and laborers came from around the country for the opportunity to work

A large contingent of single men arrived from Italy to take up temporary residence in rough camps. The contractors provided them a military style commissary for food.

Young and old, these men worked hard until the project ended and returned home or went elsewhere in search of work.

A significant number settled in the area; many of their descendants are here still.