"Los Angeles now is just our creation; we will live to see greenery and groves between the streets, higher far than men can reach; gardens such as were never seen upon earth."
This quote by William Mulholland envisions a future where Los Angeles, initially known for its urban landscape, would be transformed into a lush, green city. The growth of greenery and groves symbolizes the potential evolution of an industrial city into a more balanced, nature-filled urban environment, surpassing the reach of humans in terms of beauty and grandeur. It suggests a future where human ingenuity is used to create sustainable and visually appealing cities, as opposed to just industrial ones.
"The water we pump from this aqueduct will bring to your homes an unfailing supply of pure water ... The people of Los Angeles do not know what it is like to live without water, but the people in other parts of the state are accustomed to droughts and shortages."
This quote by William Mulholland highlights the transformative impact of infrastructure development, specifically the Los Angeles Aqueduct, on urban life and its contrast with rural conditions. He emphasizes that Angelenos will no longer experience water scarcity due to this engineering feat, whereas other Californians are familiar with droughts and shortages. It suggests both the power of human ingenuity in shaping living conditions and the stark differences between urban and rural experiences within the same region.
"There it is. Take it." (Upon the completion of the St. Francis Dam, said while pointing at the dam)
This quote from William Mulholland, an American civil engineer, encapsulates his confidence and pride in the successful completion of a monumental project - the St. Francis Dam. In simpler terms, "There it is. Take it" signifies the fulfillment of a great task, expressing assurance that the dam is now ready for use by those who will benefit from it. This quote also underscores Mulholland's strong belief in his ability to build and deliver on his promises, as well as his dedication to the greater good of the community.
"I'd rather stand trial by a jury of twelve than be vindicated by a committee of a thousand."
This quote by William Mulholland suggests his preference for the traditional, individual-focused process of a trial by jury over collective or consensual decision-making processes like that of a committee. He likely found a jury's verdict to be more objective and impartial compared to a committee that may succumb to groupthink, bias, or political influence. Essentially, Mulholland valued the accountability and fairness provided by a jury over potential subjectivity in a committee decision-making process.
"Reach for the sky and you may well find God."
The quote by William Mulholland, "Reach for the sky and you may well find God," embodies the idea that striving for greatness, ambition, or seeking knowledge, can lead to a deeper understanding or connection with something greater than oneself, often symbolized as 'God'. It suggests that the pursuit of lofty goals, whether they are personal achievements, scientific discoveries, or spiritual enlightenment, can bring us closer to realizing our potential and understanding the mysteries of the universe. In essence, this quote encourages individuals to aim high in life, for it is through reaching for the sky that we may uncover profound truths and tap into a sense of transcendence beyond ourselves.
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