On the website you say that the 2002 fire may have destroyed the Blacks Fork Commissary. I visited the "town" this weekend and it is still very much intact and all the buildings are still there. Thought I would give you the update.

Brittany

Biography unknown. Have heard that this was either a soldier's encampment, or a trading post area for local trappers and loggers. Submitted by: Dave Peterson

UPDATE: July 2002 forest fire may have burned this town - can anyone comfirm or deny?

     The history of Blacks Fork is disputed. 
     One source claims that it was originally known as Blacks Fork Commisionary and was an army way-station built to supply food, pack animals, and to repair wagons and equipment for soldiers patrolling between Fort Dushesne and Fort Bridger in Wyoming. Because of the long winters, and the incredible altitudes of the Uintah mountains, it is highly improbable that There was already an army post called Blacks Fork as early as 1857 further north on the river from Fort Bridger. The name of this outpost was changed after Union Pacific railroad passed through it, to Bryan.
     The other source, which is the more probable one, states that it was established by a timber company operating as early as 1870. It was built as a company town. It was to supply for loggers and teamsters, with supplies. It provided ties to the railroad, fuel for charcoal ovens, mine supporters, and building lumber. Timber operations continued throughout the year. Most of the employees were not married, and the ones that were only brought their families up during the summers, as there were very harsh winters. The population ranged from 50 to 100 or more. The company was still operating well into the 1930's before the company went out of business, and people started deserting the town.
     The town was built in a semicircle partially enclosing a large barn. The central building in the perimeter structures contained company offices, stores, restaurants, and storage facilities. Duplex type buildings make up the majority of the rest of the structures.

---Alex Barber

Blacks Fork July 2001
Courtesy Dave Peterson

Blacks Fork July 2001
Courtesy Dave Peterson

Blacks Fork July 2001
Courtesy Dave Peterson

Blacks Fork July 2001
Courtesy Dave Peterson

Blacks Fork July 2001
Courtesy Dave Peterson