Hanks' Dugouts facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
|
|
Hanks' Dugouts
|
|
 |
|
 Location in Utah
Location in the United States
|
|
| Nearest city | Torrey, Utah |
|---|---|
| Area | 1 acre (0.40 ha) |
| Built | 1883 |
| Built by | Ehraim K. Hanks |
| MPS | Capitol Reef National Park MPS |
| NRHP reference No. | 99001095 |
| Added to NRHP | September 13, 1999 |
The Hanks' Dugouts are a group of pioneer homes in southern Utah. They are now found inside Capitol Reef National Park. These special homes were dug into the ground. They were built as temporary shelters for the Ephraim K. Hanks family. This family were Mormon pioneers who settled here in April 1883. They started a ranch called Floral Ranch on Pleasant Creek.
Today, you can still see the remains of three dugouts. There is also one other structure at the site. Any parts of the buildings that were above ground have fallen down. The Hanks family stopped living in the dugouts in 1888. They built a bigger, four-room house instead. At the site, you can find old items like pottery, glass, and parts of a wagon. This settlement shows what a typical pioneer home was like back then.
Contents
What Are Dugouts?
A dugout is a type of shelter that is dug into the ground. It is often built into the side of a hill or a riverbank. People would dig out a space and then add a roof. This made a simple, sturdy home. Dugouts were common for pioneers because they were quick to build. They also offered good protection from the weather.
Why Pioneers Built Dugouts
Pioneers like the Hanks family often built dugouts first. They needed a place to live right away. Building a full house took a lot more time and materials. Dugouts were a good temporary solution. They kept families safe while they worked on building more permanent homes.
The Hanks Family Story
Ephraim K. Hanks was a Mormon pioneer. He brought his family to this area in 1883. They wanted to start a new life and build a ranch. The dugouts were their first homes in this new place. They worked hard to make the land productive.
Life at Floral Ranch
The Hanks family lived at Floral Ranch for several years. They farmed the land and raised animals. Life as a pioneer was very challenging. They had to be self-sufficient and brave. The dugouts were their base as they built their new life.
A Historic Site Today
The Hanks' Dugouts site is very important. It helps us understand how pioneers lived in Utah. It shows their determination and how they adapted to the land. The site is now protected.
National Register of Historic Places
The Hanks' Dugouts site was added to the National Register of Historic Places on September 13, 1999. This means it is a special place. It is recognized for its historical importance. Protecting the site helps future generations learn about pioneer life.
