ABSTRACT
Man has been aware of groundwater since prehistory, long before Biblical times. Over the centuries the mysteries of groundwater have been solved, and man has developed an increasing capability to manipulate it to his will. This chapter describes some of the key stages in the development of the understanding and control of groundwater. The history of some of the technologies now used for groundwater lowering is also discussed, especially in relation to early applications in the United Kingdom. Detailed knowledge of the history of groundwater control might not be considered essential for a practical engineer working today. Nevertheless, study of the past can be illuminating, not least by showing that even when theories are incomplete, and technology untried, the application of scientific principles and engineering judgement can still allow groundwater to be controlled.
