The Grand Canal is the oldest remaining pioneer canal on the north side of the Salt River. It was constructed in 1878 by the Grand Canal Company. The federal government purchased the Grand Canal for $20,488 in June 1906. At that time it served about 17,000 acres. It runs 21 miles through Central Phoenix.
Nine canals make up the system in the greater Phoenix metropolitan area, constructed between 1870 and 1913. In addition to the main canals, the Valley is home to 924 miles of “laterals,” ditches that take water from the large canals to various delivery points in irrigated areas. Many of the older Phoenix neighborhoods, churches, and golf courses receive irrigation water through the lateral system. Water is routed into and through these laterals by a series of turnout gates. Residential irrigation customers take their water entitlement at regularly scheduled intervals throughout the year by opening valves that release water onto their property for specific time periods.
In the background you can see Brophy Chapel, one of the most beautiful buildings in Phoenix. The chapel was featured on this blog on January 9, 2010, and you can see it up close by CLICKING HERE.
To return to the main blog for a history of Phoenix's canals which started with the ancient Hohokam Indians, CLICK HERE.
7 comments:
Just beautiful - the canal, the chapel, and the reflections in the water!
What a picturesque shot! It will be a crying shame if you can't turn it into a postcard. Have a blessed weekend!
The mood, the distinct outlines, the touch of colours... this is an excellent capture.
Beautiful photo and history. I like the reflection in the water.
Lovely photo! And I enjoy your descriptions as well.
Wow, I like how the canal gives you a reflection too.
Oh my goodness Kathy, this shot is beautiful. It should be published in a welcome to Arizona brochure. :)
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