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. To go to that website, scroll to the bottom of this page and click on the appropriate link.

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 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").