Morrell also served as president of the local gas and water company from 1860 to 1884, and as president of the First National Bank of Johnstown from 1863 to 1884. He also served as president of the city council for many years.
Morrell became a member of the South Fork Fishing and Hunting Club, an exclusive club made up of elite industrialists and businessmen from Pittsburgh. Its property included the South Fork Dam and its large reservoir, which the club named Lake Conemaugh.
As he had long been based in Johnstown, Morrell knew the dam had failed in 1862. He was concerned about its maintenance through multiple owners and wanted to keep a watchful eye on its stewardship by the club. He repeatedly brought up the issue of dam safety to club officials, especially to co-founder, Benjamin Franklin Ruff. Morrell sent multiple letters to Ruff, expressing his concerns about the dam.[2]
Morrell had insisted on inspections of the dam's breastwork both by his own engineers and those of the Pennsylvania Railroad. Morrell's warnings went unheeded,. His offer to make needed repairs, partially at his own expense, was rejected by club president, Benjamin F. Ruff.
Morrell died in 1885. His membership was bought by his colleague, Cyrus Elder, who was legal counsel for the Cambria Iron and Steel Company.[3] Ruff died in 1887.[4]
The dam failed in 1889, causing the great Johnstown Flood of May 31, 1889. It killed more than 2,200 people, and destroyed homes, businesses, and industry in the valleys and city. It was the largest disaster in U.S. history.
Death and legacy
Morrell was again engaged in banking and died on August 20, 1885, in Johnstown, Cambria County, Pennsylvania.