Whitney Lake construction

The Whitney Irrigation District was formed in 1922 and construction of Whitney Lake and a network of pipelines and irrigation ditches that brought much-needed water to the area was completed in 1925. Our thanks to Dixie Thompson, Secretary of the district for making these photographs available.
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The appears to be a "BEFORE" photograph of the terrain now occupied by Whitney Lake. The area was often soggy and collected rainwater as a natural dam -- but the irrigation project ensured a year-around supply.
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The appears to be a "BEFORE" photograph of the terrain now occupied by Whitney Lake. The area was often soggy and collected rainwater as a natural dam -- but the irrigation project ensured a year-around supply.

  • The appears to be a "BEFORE" photograph of the terrain now occupied by Whitney Lake. The area was often soggy and collected rainwater as a natural dam -- but the irrigation project ensured a year-around supply.
  • This is George Lawrence, one of the key figures responsible for the formation of the Whitney Irrigation project. George and his wife, Jenny, lived just east of Whitney. George was active in helping plan and then raise money for the project. He also provided considerable historical documentation about the project -- some of which we've included on the "Whitney Reflections" website.
  • This appears to be an "AFTER" photograph, taken subsequent to the activation of the diversion pipeline carrying water from White River to Whitney Lake.
  • Surveyors and area farmers near Whitney Lake. This photo was likely taken in about 1923.
  • Workers began construction at Whitney Lake in 1923.
  • These tents accommodated the 80 mules and 50 horses used for earth work and construction of the Whitney Lake irrigation project from 1923-1925.
  • This originally appeared to be farmers harvesting and loading sugar beets near Whitney. However, notes on the back of the photograph indicate it's workers preparing the lake bed.
  • Another view of Whitney Lake construction in the years 1923-1925.
  • This appears to be the trenching equipment used to dig the trench necessary for the diversion pipeline for Whitney Lake. Notes on the back of the photograph say the photo was taken near the diversion dam northeast of Crawford.
  • The soil in the project area was mostly heavy clay (commonly called "gumbo").
  • The diversion route stretched 6 1/2 miles from White River to Whitney Lake. Notes on one of these photos noted that 5.36 miles of redwood pipeline were used. Which leads us to wonder about the other approximately one mile?
  • Another photo of the original pipeline feeding Whitney Lake. It was constructed in 1923-1925.
  • The water for Whitney Lake was originally diverted from White River using this wooden pipeline constructed of redwood staves and metal straps. The line was 36" to 40" in diameter.
  • Preparing for the pouring of cement at Whitney Lake, circa 1924.
  • Another view of construction at Whitney Lake near Whitney, Nebraska. This photo was taken near the "Rasmussen Outlet," probably in about 1924.
  • Pouring concret near "Rasmussen Outlet" at Whitney Lake in about 1924.
  • Workers take a break near "Buckley Gates" during construction of the Whitney Lake project.
  • This image was captured near "Spearman Outlet."
  • Workers finalizing installation of the Whitney Lake pipeline. Photo was taken in about 1925.
  • Preparatory to full operation of the Whitney Irrigation District, an "Irrigation School" was held at the Whitney school. Attendance appeared to be pretty good.
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