Harnessing Nature's Energy

Harnessing Nature's Energy. . , The estate's powerhouse was the first of more than 20 hydroelectric plants built by Henry Ford. Two direct current (DC) hydroelectric generators were used to change the force of the Rouge River into electrical energy to power light bulbs, pumps, and other mechanical systems throughout the estate. Thomas Edison, who had been an early mentor of Henry Ford and a lifelong friend, laid the cornerstone of the powerhouse on October 28, 1914. , , This powerhouse helped make Fair Lane self-sufficient, and once provided electricity to run machinery at the Water Works facility, located nearby on Michigan Avenue, that supplied water to the surrounding area. , , At the time of its construction, this state-of-the-art plant set new standards of efficiency. The technology was later used to adapt historic water mills and build additional plants throughout southeastern Michigan. , , The powerhouse design allowed river water to enter through three underground headraces, where it was filtered by trash racks. The water spun one of two turbines connected by shafts to twin 55-kilowatt generators on the top floor. Water flowed back to the river through the tailrace. , , Photo caption: Powerhouse and Tailrace under construction.