This section contains the nature of the case and procedural background.

In the course of street construction work, the city diverted the flow of streams, causing deposit of sand and earth near Barron's wharf, so that the water there was too shallow for most vessels. Barron sued, claiming that the state's action violated the Fifth Amendment guarantee that private property shall not be 'taken for public use, without just compensation.'

The legal issues presented in this case will be displayed here.

The court's holding and decision will be displayed here.

Legal analysis from Dean's Law Dictionary will be displayed here.