New Books in Science, Technology, and Society Lucy Sante, "Nineteen Reservoirs: On Their Creation and the Promise of Water for New York City (The Experiment, 2022)
Sep 14, 2025
Lucy Sante, a seasoned writer and author of 'Nineteen Reservoirs', dives deep into the intricate history of New York City's reservoir system. She uncovers the emotional narratives of displacement faced by rural communities and the socio-economic impacts of these monumental constructions. Highlighting the duality of triumph and tragedy, Sante illustrates the ongoing tensions between urban needs and rural realities. Listeners will also get a sneak peek into her upcoming works, including reflections on 1960s New York and the Velvet Underground.
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Haunted Legacy Of Displaced Families
- Lucy Sante recounts meeting locals displaced by Papakton who carried family resentments for decades.
- She describes a haunted atmosphere around reservoirs that became tragedies for those communities.
Early Geological Planning Guided Reservoir Sites
- Planning for NYC's reservoirs began as early as 1888 with precise geological predictions guiding site choice.
- Lucy Sante highlights how engineers prioritized commercial water pressure needs over local communities' rights.
City Needs Trumped Rural Rights
- New York prioritized commercial expansion and water pressure to serve taller buildings over local welfare.
- Sante frames the city's approach as colonial: large urban needs outweighed rural rights.
