Out of the Archives, Now and Then
The J. Waldo Smith Memorial stands today at Ashokan Reservoir as it did exactly 103 years ago. Back then it was known as the McClellan Triangulation Monument, dedicated to Mayor George B. McClellan, namesake of the act that gave New York City authority to acquire land to ensure supply of clean water, which led to the establishment of the Board of Water Supply and construction of the Catskill system.
Surveyors used the tower to elevate their measuring instruments above any sightline-blocking obstacles. Photographers also climbed up it to capture sweeping panoramic views of the reservoir.
In 1936, the memorial was rededicated in memory of Smith, the chief engineer who oversaw all NYC water supply projects from 1904–22.
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