Giant sinkholes prevented irrigation

 In 1920, John and Emma Silver farmed in Tumalo, Oregon, an area that depends on irrigation. Unfortunately, the Tumalo Reservoir failed to provide sufficient water—giant sinkholes opened on its floor. The Silvers relocated to California.

John and Emma moved to Oregon sometime after 1912 and to California before 1930. If they were directly affected by the reservoir failure is uncertain, though it is likely. The reservoir was completed in 1915; local farmers took over the project in 1922. Whether the Silvers’ farm was adequately irrigated or not, they were unquestionably aware of the dilemma. The water issue could have influenced their decision to move to California.

Today, one-third of land in the Tumalo area is irrigated. The Tumalo Reservoir holds 5% of its original capacity and is a mere 11 feet deep.

This is a photograph of John and Emma Silver and two of their sons.

According to information on familysearch.org/tree, John and Emma Silver are the great grandparents of D. Hirsch. D Hirsch – F Hirsch – Blanche Silver – John and Emma (Hudson) Silver

References:

Moved after 1912: birthplace (Kansas) of son in 1920 census, lived in Oregon in 1920. Year: 1920; Census Place: Tumalo, Deschutes, Oregon; Roll: T625_1493; Page:9A; Enumeration District: 40; Image: 535

Lived in California in 1930 Census. Year: 1930; Census Place: American, Sacramento, California; Roll: 184; Page:1B; Enumeration District: 0005; Image:900.0; FHL microfilm: 2339919

Reservoir information, including modern stats: http://fivepinelodge.com/2013/09/13/tumalo-reservoir/

Reservoir information, including map showing intended area and actual area that contains water: https://aol.research.pdx.edu/lakes/17070301005246

Reservoir information, including appearance of sinkholes: http://www.bendbulletin.com/news/1455216-151/historic-tumalo

Reservoir information: https://oregonhistoryproject.org/articles/historical-records/laidlaw-tumalo-1905/#.V9_yXZgrLIV