Although the coal fields were first developed in 1911, it was not until the mid 1920s when the British controlled company saw any profit. The company had to build a costly railroad to the site; battle the hostile elements and geography, and face continued labor unrest. By the end of the Second World War, the mine encountered a new foe - diesel fuel. Demand for the coal decreased and by the summer of 1950, all operations ceased. The lights were turned off in the alpine community. Most residents cleared out by the fall, and houses and buildings were quickly dismantled. Mountain Park belonged to the ghosts.