In the 1850's Horatio Gates Livermore and later his sons, Horatio P. and Charles E., pioneered the development of ditches and dams on the American River for industry and agriculture. One historic result , was the Folsom Power House, which began operations in July, 1895. Power was delivered to Sacramento at 11,000 volts which was a new achievement in long distance high voltage transmission. The Capital celebrated by a grand electric carnival September 9, 1895.
The original generating plant, still in place remained in continuous operation until 1952.
The plant was donated by Pacific Gas and Electric to the State of California to preserve historical value. California Registered Historical Landmark No. 633. Plaque placed by the California State Park Commission in Cooperation with the Sacramento Section, American Institute of Electrical Engineers, August 2, 1958.
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The Folsom Power House is still standing and is open for tours. The grounds are much the same as they were over a hundred years ago. The Forebays are still visible, though dry, the old timbers and gates still remain. There are picnic tables that make for a nice luncheon area and afternoon by the river. This is in walking distance of downtown Folsom near Old Sutter and the Historic Rainbow Bridge.
Folsom Power House is also recognized a National Historic Landmark, a National Civil Engineering Landmark, a National Electric Mechanical Engineering Landmark , recognized by the Chinese Community and Multi-Etnic Communities who worked to build and preserve this landmark.
FOLSOM POWER HOUSE
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