Movie spotlight
Eaton's Water
At the beginning of the Civil War, Benjamin Eaton brings his upper-class bride, Alice, to live in California. She is thrown into the rough life of Los Angeles, with its lawlessness and other dangers. The devastating drought of 1862 tries Ben and Alice's pioneer spirit, and forms the background of their amazing true story. With the help of Ben's Southern-minded brother-in-law, Br. John S.Griffin, and wealthy business partner, Mr. Don Benito Wilson, they find a way to build the first zanja — water system — to bring water out of the Arroyo Seco. How that happened is this story...
Insights
Plot Summary
A documentary exploring the significant role of water in the history and operations of the former Eaton's department store, touching upon its early water systems, its impact on urban development, and its eventual legacy.
Critical Reception
As a recent documentary without widespread release, critical reception is not yet widely available. General interest is expected from those fascinated by Canadian retail history and urban infrastructure.
What Reviewers Say
Details the fascinating, often overlooked, relationship between a retail giant and a vital natural resource.
Offers a unique perspective on urban history through the lens of water management and consumption.
Explores the innovative and sometimes challenging ways water shaped the iconic Eaton's stores.
Google audience: Audience reception is not yet established due to the film's recent nature and niche subject matter.
Fun Fact
The original Eaton's College Street store in Toronto was designed with an extensive system of cisterns and water mains to supply its various departments, including its famous restaurants and rooftop gardens.
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