William Kent - Pro Damming

William Kent was a Representative from California during the time of the Hetch Hetchy debate. He was a wealthy man and spent a lot of his time outdoors. In 1908, Kent assigned an area by Marin County to be named Muir Woods National Monument in honor of John Muir and his successes so far. Muir referred to Kent as a trusted partner and one who would side with Muir on the Hetch Hetchy Damming. Yet Kent formed his own opinion and became a conservationist.  Later on in his life, Kent went on to help write the National Park Service Bill, add more land to the Muir Woods National Monument, and assist in the founding of the Save-The-Redwoods League. 
    




   John Muir, Congressman Kent, and Gifford Pinchot at Muir Woods Inn

 source: Marin Online History Museum

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