Author Description

Following enactment of the Reclamation Act, the first federally constructed dam broke ground in Arizona's Salt River Valley in 1905. With the inauguration of Roosevelt Dam, the distant dream of an abundant life in the desert became a reality. The dam and farmer-operated water distribution system tamed the vicious drought, created arable land and became an irrigation model for the West. With the water came farmers and families, all eager for the chance to build new lives and communities. Many were just like the Haley family, farmers from Kentucky and Missouri who settled in the area and whose descendants still call the valley home. Follow their journey and discover a snapshot of the life and community that grew from the ditches of the valley. Author Meredith Haley Whiteley explores this story from the ordinary person's perspective, weaving valley history through drought, loss, plenty and joy.