Folsom in Sacramento County, California — The American West (Pacific Coastal)
Cutting Edge Technology
Photographed By Andrew Ruppenstein, February 20, 2022
1. Cutting Edge Technology Marker
By the 1920's this building housed a machine shop, superintendent's office, and automotive garage. The superintendent oversaw the daily operation of the power plant complex, directing the work of both power plant and dam operators in response to changing river water levels and electrical power demand from Sacramento. In addition, a mechanic was available to immediately repair any equipment malfunctions.
As one of the first hydroelectric powerhouses using the new Alternating Current technology, off the shelf parts and equipment were not readily available to replace broken ones. To keep operations running smoothly, a blacksmith's forge along with other tools and equipment were available to the mechanic working at the powerhouse. This aided in fabricating parts for the complex machinery involved. The presence of the machineshop was vital in addressing immediate repairs and equipment malfunctions, keeping the power plant operational and maintaining the transmission of electricity to Sacramento.
Erected by California State Parks.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Industry & Commerce.
Location. 38° 40.799′ N, 121° 10.61′ W. Marker is in Folsom
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Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Main Powerhouse (a few steps from this marker); Pushing Electrons (a few steps from this marker); Lower Powerhouse (within shouting distance of this marker); Original Folsom Hydroelectric Plant (within shouting distance of this marker); An Electrifying Past (within shouting distance of this marker); Forebay (within shouting distance of this marker); J. Clifton Toney (approx. 0.2 miles away); Ashland Station (approx. 0.2 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Folsom.
More about this marker. The marker is located within Folsom Powerhouse State Historic Park, in front of the former machine shop.
Also see . . . Folsom Powerhouse State Historic Park (California State Parks). (Submitted on February 25, 2022.)
Photographed By Andrew Ruppenstein, February 20, 2022
2. Cutting Edge Technology Marker - wide view
Credits. This page was last revised on February 25, 2022. It was originally submitted on February 25, 2022, by Andrew Ruppenstein of Lamorinda, California. This page has been viewed 116 times since then and 14 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on February 25, 2022, by Andrew Ruppenstein of Lamorinda, California.
