Fred H. Albee owned the land on which Venice was built, and John Nolen conceived the original city plan. The Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers bought the land from Dr. Albee, retained the Nolen staff, and built the nucleus of the city in conformance with the Nolen Plan between 1925 and 1927. Much of what was done in those early days established the pattern that made Venice one of the most beautiful cities in the nation. A man of unusual talent, Albee made development of the city possible through his foresight, dedication, and determination, and his endeavors during the years 1930-1940 helped assure its growth and survival.