Virginia City in Storey County, Nevada — The American Mountains (Southwest)
Pelton Wheel
Photographed By Brian Phelps, May 20, 2023
1. Pelton Wheel Marker
Lester A. Pelton invented and patented this type of wheel in 1864 while working in Yuba County, California. The Pelton wheel is similar to a water wheel used to raise water a few feet from a ditch or stream. The difference in this instance is that it was used to develop power. Water under pressure was forced against the cups causing them to revolve. The amount of water used at the Chollar shaft was about 1700 gallons per minute. Generally, the wheels were used in a series of depths well below 1600' in order to generate power to the mills.
Erected by Greg Hess and Lane Puckett.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Industry & Commerce. A significant historical year for this entry is 1864.
Location. 39° 18.471′ N, 119° 39.043′ W. Marker is in Virginia City, Nevada, in Storey County. Marker is on South C Street, 0.2 miles south of Taylor Street, on the left when traveling north. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 204 South C St, Virginia City NV 89440, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Solid Granite (here, next to this marker); First Presbyterian Church (a few steps from this marker); Young America Engine Co. No. 2 (within shouting distance of this marker); Frank Bell (about 300 feet
this page online
Photographed By Brian Phelps, May 20, 2023
2. Pelton Wheel Marker
Credits. This page was last revised on May 27, 2023. It was originally submitted on May 21, 2023, by Brian Phelps of Carson City, Nevada. This page has been viewed 64 times since then and 10 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on May 21, 2023, by Brian Phelps of Carson City, Nevada. • J. Makali Bruton was the editor who published this page.
