Construction Los Angeles Aqueduct

typical construction view of lined canal , covered concrete conduit.

the construction of los angeles aqueduct eliminated owens valley viable farming community , devastated owens lake ecosystem. group labeled san fernando syndicate – including fred eaton, mulholland, harrison otis (the publisher of los angeles times), henry huntington executive of southern pacific railroad, , other wealthy individuals – group of investors bought land in san fernando valley allegedly based on inside knowledge los angeles aqueduct irrigate it. although there disagreement on actions of “syndicate” whether diabolical cabal or group united los angeles business community behind supporting aqueduct, eaton, mulholland , others connected project have long been accused of using deceptive tactics , underhanded methods obtain water rights , block bureau of reclamation building water infrastructure residents in owens valley. 1920s, aggressive pursuits of water rights , diversion of owens river precipitated outbreak of violence known california water wars. farmers in owens valley attacked infrastructure, dynamiting aqueduct numerous times , opening sluice gates divert flow of water.

the aqueduct s water provided developers resources develop san fernando valley , los angeles through world war ii. mulholland s role in vision , completion of aqueduct , growth of los angeles large metropolis recognized , well-documented. william mulholland memorial fountain, built in 1940 , located @ riverside drive , los feliz blvd. in los feliz, dedicated memory , contributions. mulholland drive , mulholland dam both named him well.