Big Cottonwood Lumber Co., organized in 1854 by Brigham Young, Daniel H. Wells, and others, erected two waterpowered sawmills in Silver Fork. Log homes, stores, and a post office were built to accommodate families. The Silver Springs Branch of the L.D.S. Cottonwood Ward was organized in May 1858, with George B. Gardiner as president. Approximately 21 silver mines were located there, including the Prince of Wales and Antelope groups developed by Walker Brothers, with production beginning in 1870. A small smelter was built in 1871 by Wightman and Co.