being celebrated, the reasons which have brought us together lie far deeper. This mighty work symbolizes the stern, unfaltering determination of the people that our waters shall be free—free to serve the uses and purposes of their creation by a Divine Providence. It means that our unyielding purpose to secure a free river from the mountains to the sea will ultimately be realized. It means the recognition by all that throughout this vast territory there is no division of interest. This is a common country with a common purpose, a common destiny; and this stream,, from its source to where it finally weds the ocean and is lost in the mighty Pacific, is one river—our river—in which we all have a common share.
I must record, if only in passing, the pleasure and satisfaction it is to see here many of those who for many years have stood manfully shoulder to shoulder in an unselfish effort to unshackle this river, to afford greater oportunities to the people, to free commerce from heavy burdens. I delight to congratulate them upon the success of their efforts. And I desire also to speak a word in memory of those who are gone. When I think of the years men like Dr. N. G. Blalock of Walla Walla and Mr. Herman Wittenberg of Portland, as well as others I have, not time to mention, gave to this work, I can but hope that they are here in spirit rejoicing with us.
It is not my purpose to make an address, but it is my desire at this time to give you a few facts in connection with this canal. Although the improvement of this stretch of the river has been under consideration for more than forty years, actual construction was not commenced until October, 1905. Since then work has progressed as rapidly as appropriations by the government would permit.
The estimated cost of the canal was $4,845,000. The first work done was under contracts and at a very favorable figure. Thereafter, beginning in July, 1910, the work was done by hired labor, and, except for the construction and installation of lock gates and small bridges, the canal was
