After purchasing the New Panama Canal Company from the French and claiming the rights to build the canal, the Isthmian Canal Commission (ICC) was created by President Theodore Roosevelt under the umbrella of the United States War Department. The ICC was initially headed by John G Walker to whom the Chief Engineer, first John F Wallace and then John F Stevens, reported. Following Stevens' resignation, George Goethals became Chief Engineer, the first to hold positions of Chairman - ICC and President - Panama Railroad. Everything to do with the Canal Zone and the construction of the canal itself, from postal services, hospitals, schools and business concerns to construction equipment, labor disputes and protection, came under the ICC. Goethals reported directly to the Secretary of War, Taft, who in turn reported to Theodore Roosevelt.
