Shockoe Bottom in Richmond, Virginia — The American South (Mid-Atlantic)
Coffer Dams
Photographed By Bernard Fisher, December 13, 2012
1. Coffer Dams Marker
They are designed to be placed by crane at either end of the stone locks to your right. --- This allows the locks to be closed off, the water pumped out, and repairs made to the lock doors.
In the past, mud built up at the base of the doors, wood rotted, and metal control pieces bent. At the moment, repairs are needed to the “wicket gates”. -- These are the small metal louvers at the bottom of the doors that regulate the flow of water into (and out of) the locks. This determines level of water in the locks, so that the doors can be easily moved.
These are cumbersome and heavy. Moving them long distances is impractical. They are stored here in anticipation of reopening the canal. This work is dependent, however, on costly restorations to the railroad bridge behind you.
Erected by Friends of James River Park.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Waterways & Vessels.
Location. 37° 31.536′ N, 77° 25.248′ W. Marker is in Richmond, Virginia. It is in Shockoe Bottom. Marker can be reached from Dock Street near Pear Street, on the right when traveling south. Located
this page online
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Great Ship Lock (a few steps from this marker); Rocketts Landing and Wharf / Confederate Navy Yard / Powhatan’s Birthplace (within shouting distance of this marker); Rocketts Landing (within shouting distance of this marker); Confederate Navy Yard (within shouting distance of this marker); City Locks River Gauge (within shouting distance of this marker); a different marker also named Great Ship Lock (within shouting distance of this marker); a different marker also named Great Ship Lock (within shouting distance of this marker); 17 Feet (within shouting distance of this marker). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Richmond.
Photographed By Bernard Fisher, December 13, 2012
2. Coffer Dams
Credits. This page was last revised on February 1, 2023. It was originally submitted on December 14, 2012, by Bernard Fisher of Richmond, Virginia. This page has been viewed 545 times since then and 12 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on December 14, 2012, by Bernard Fisher of Richmond, Virginia.
