Legacy and Catastrophe: The St. Francis Dam Disaster

This chapter explores the significant yet tragic legacy of a pivotal figure in Los Angeles history, focusing on his ambitious water projects, particularly the St. Francis Dam. It recounts the buildup to the catastrophic failure of the dam in 1928, detailing its emotional and societal repercussions. The narrative also examines the complex relationship between the LA Department of Water and Power and local communities, shedding light on historical land ownership and contemporary water rights disputes.