Through the main streets of Rochester, N. Y. flows the turbulent, muddy Genesee River, carrying drainage from barnyards and outhouses in western New York. In cases of great demand, the river water serves Rochester fire hydrants. Rochester's drinking water comes partly from Lake Ontario, mostly from pure, sparkling Hemlock Lake. Many years ago, the hydrant system was connected to the Hemlock Lake system by valves. But during the past 20 years, most of the valves have been permanently sealed. Only a few remained, connecting the clean Hemlock water with the dirty water from the Genesee. Even the Superintendent of Waterworks, Lewis...
To continue reading:
or
Log-In
