Materials in this collection are from John L. Bacon and are related to his work on the Colorado River Commission, the Boulder dam (aka Hoover dam) project, water supply for California, division of Colorado River water within California, and affiliated matters. The collection includes extensive correspondence with individuals involved in the Boulder dam project.

The Hiram W. Johnson papers include materials from Johnson's time as a Senator from California that pertain to the Colorado River, Hoover dam, Colorado River Compact, and All-American Canal.