While researching some early water history, I came across some information on a Free Water Movement in the United States. People thought at the time (1897), since we had such an abundance of pure drinking water, it should be given to the citizens for free. What caught my attention about this particular piece of history is the fact that the cost of water for the citizens of Baltimore just increased by 4%. Starting today (5/29/2008). This will be an increase of about $32/year per household. The surrounding counties who get their water from Baltimore, will in turn increase their cost. This will be between 4 and 7%. A brief summary of this movement can be found on my History page.