Harriet Russell Strong

Early Life and Education

Harriet Williams Russell Strong was born in Buffalo, New York, on July 23, 1844. She was an American inventor, businesswoman, and social activist. Her contributions to water storage and irrigation helped to mold the progress of Southern California.

Education was a top priority in Harriet’s family. Her father decided to move the family west to California in 1852, hoping to find new opportunities. Harriet, when she was young, was educated by private teachers and then went on to the Young Ladies Seminary in Benicia, California.

Marriage and Life at Rancho del Fuerte

When she was 19, Harriet married Charles Lyman Strong, a prosperous businessman with interests in banking, publishing, and mining. The couple relocated to the San Gabriel Valley in California after buying 325 acres from Pio Pico, the last Mexican governor of the state. They named their new home “Rancho del Fuerte,” meaning “Ranch of the Strong.”

However, their life took a tragic turn when Charles, after a series of failed business ventures, took his own life in 1883. Harriet became a widow with four young daughters and a huge amount of debt. This difficulty would be the driving force behind her exceptional transformation into an inventor and businesswoman.

Success in Agriculture: The Walnut Queen and Pampas Woman

Harriet’s irrigation system was very successful, leading to the thriving of her walnut orchards. In just five years, she managed to have the biggest walnut farm in the United States, earning her the title of “The Walnut Queen of Whittier.” Along with her successful walnuts, she also grew pampas grass, known for its popular plumes in the millinery trade, earning her the nickname “The Pampas Woman.”

Advocacy for Women’s Rights

Harriet became more committed to social causes, particularly women’s rights, as her business continued to prosper. She was part of the National American Woman Suffrage Association and frequently gave speeches with Susan B. Anthony. In 1895, she even hosted Anthony at her ranch.

Education and Cultural Opportunities for Women

Harriet was a firm believer in women’s education and financial independence. In 1920, she founded the Hamilton Club to educate women about business and public matters. Additionally, she established the Ebell Club of Los Angeles to promote cultural opportunities for women.

Contributions to Water Management

Harriet’s expertise in water management established her as a key figure in California’s water policy discussions. She played a crucial role in the passing of the Los Angeles Flood Control Act of 1915 and served on the flood control board at a time when women lacked voting rights in California.

Visionary Plans for the Colorado River

In 1917, she proposed a plan to Congress for building a dam at the Grand Canyon on the Colorado River to manage floods, conserve water, and produce electricity. Although her ideas were initially denied, they later played a significant role in the development of the Hoover Dam and the All-American Canal.

Tragic Death and Enduring Legacy

In a tragic car accident near Whittier, California, Harriet Russell Strong passed away on September 6, 1926. She is remembered through the water management systems in Southern California and her work in advancing women’s rights and education.

A Life of Resilience and Innovation

Strong’s life story is a demonstration of resilience, innovation, and social consciousness. From a widowed mother facing financial challenges, she became a successful businesswoman, inventor, and social activist, leaving an indelible mark on both the physical and social landscape of California.