Zanja Madre

The Zanja Madre (English: 'Mother Ditch') is the original aqueduct that brought water to the Pueblo de Los Angeles from the Rio Porciuncula (Los Angeles River). It is referred to as an open, earthen ditch which was completed by community laborers within a month of founding the pueblo. The ditch underwent many alterations over the years and was in use until the early 20th century before it was replaced by modern piped water supply systems.

The recent construction and grading along the Metro Gold Line have created a major archaeological interest in its latest "rediscovery" and possible preservation.