July 20, 1939: Muroc Land Acquisition

A third condemnation suit was filed for the balance of the 60,000 acres needed to complete the Muroc bombing facility. In the meantime, many of the defendants in the previous two suits were reportedly settling out of court for their land holdings.

A Condemnation suit is a judicial proceeding for the purpose of taking property by eminent domain for public use upon the payment of just compensation for such taking. It is also known as a condemnation proceeding.

“Eminent Domain” refers to the inherent right of the government to take private property for a public use.  “Condemnation” is the legal process and procedure used by public or private entities with the power of eminent domain for the taking of a landowner's land.