accumulations of clay, sand, gravel and plant material in its wake. A mid-1900s well dug into the deposits of Marsh Creek Valley revealed glacial deposits at least 200 feet deep near Wellsboro. A leading tributary to Pine Creek, Marsh Creek flows so very slowly west that an early geologist described its flow as "hardly perceptible." The exceptional fertility of this rich black soil was recognized by 19th century settlers who were initially attracted to the area by the thriving lumber and tanning industries and its abundant game. At that time, wetlands were generally regarded as impediments to progress and their stagnant waters a health risk. Large areas of the wetlands were soon destroyed, and their drainage diverted JUNE 2014 to facilitate construction of railroad beds for the benefit of growing industry. But the greatest modification of natural marsh lands was to accommodate agriculture. Beginning in the 1890s, the land was subdivided and many of its marshes drained to facilitate the commercial production of celery and lettuce. The effort prospered in the rich organic soils, but working such unstable soil is far from easy. Drained areas of muck dried and became firmer, but were unstable enough that horses used in the fields were fitted with large wooden blocks or "muck shoes" made of steel lid covers to prevent sinking. In one report, a team of horses sank and was smothered in the muck. The celery and lettuce produc15