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Wilson Dam Collection

"Wilson Dam: A Testament to Power and Progress in Alabama" Located in Florence, Alabama, the iconic Wilson Dam stands tall as a symbol of ingenuity and progress

Background imageWilson Dam Collection: USA, Alabama, Florence, Muscle Shoals, Wilson Dam, 1918 Construction, Tennessee River

USA, Alabama, Florence, Muscle Shoals, Wilson Dam, 1918 Construction, Tennessee River, National Historic Landmark

Background imageWilson Dam Collection: USA, Alabama, Muscle Shoals Area, Florence, Renaissance Tower, Wilson Lock and Dam

USA, Alabama, Muscle Shoals Area, Florence, Renaissance Tower, Wilson Lock and Dam, Lake Wilson and Tennessee River

Background imageWilson Dam Collection: Wilson Dam, Muscle Shoals, Alabama, c1930s. Creator: Unknown

Wilson Dam, Muscle Shoals, Alabama, c1930s. Creator: Unknown
Wilson Dam, Muscle Shoals, Alabama, c1930s. Construction of the Wilson Dam on the Tennessee River began in 1918 and was completed in 1924 under Hugh L

Background imageWilson Dam Collection: WILSON DAM, 1942. Lincoln Johnson, a foreman employed by the Tennessee Valley Authority

WILSON DAM, 1942. Lincoln Johnson, a foreman employed by the Tennessee Valley Authority at the Wilson Dam in Alabama. Photograph by Alfred Palmer, June 1942

Background imageWilson Dam Collection: NEW DEAL: C. C. C. 1942. Civilian Conservation Corps workers weeding pine seedlings

NEW DEAL: C. C. C. 1942. Civilian Conservation Corps workers weeding pine seedlings
NEW DEAL: C.C.C. 1942. Civilian Conservation Corps workers weeding pine seedlings at a Tennessee Valley Authority nursery at Wilson Dam, Alabama. Photograph by Arthur Rothstein, June 1942

Background imageWilson Dam Collection: WILSON DAM, c1922. A view of the construction of the Wilson Dam on the Tennessee River

WILSON DAM, c1922. A view of the construction of the Wilson Dam on the Tennessee River, looking north from Muscle Shoals, Alabama, showing the construction bridge, gantry crane, and structural piers

Background imageWilson Dam Collection: Water Power House

Water Power House
circa 1923: The Wilson Dam under construction in Tennessee, an early part of the Tennessee Valley Authority plan. (Photo by Topical Press Agency/Getty Images)

Background imageWilson Dam Collection: A Great Dam

A Great Dam
circa 1923: The Wilson Dam at Tennessee, with its giant concrete cones, providing the basis of the Tennessee Valley Authority in 1930s. (Photo by Topical Press Agency/Getty Images)

Background imageWilson Dam Collection: USA, Alabama, Florence. Wilson Lock and Dam, Electrical Power Lines, dawn

USA, Alabama, Florence. Wilson Lock and Dam, Electrical Power Lines, dawn
Silhouettes of electricity pylon and power lines against sky at dawn, Wilson Lock and Dam, Florence, Alabama, USA

Background imageWilson Dam Collection: USA, Alabama, Florence. Renaissance Tower, Wilson Lock and Dam, Lake Wilson and Tennessee River

USA, Alabama, Florence. Renaissance Tower, Wilson Lock and Dam, Lake Wilson and Tennessee River, sunrise


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"Wilson Dam: A Testament to Power and Progress in Alabama" Located in Florence, Alabama, the iconic Wilson Dam stands tall as a symbol of ingenuity and progress. Constructed in 1918 on the Tennessee River, this engineering marvel has played a pivotal role in shaping the region's history. Muscle Shoals, known for its rich musical heritage, owes much of its fame to Wilson Dam. The dam's construction not only provided electricity but also paved the way for the establishment of recording studios that attracted legendary musicians like Aretha Franklin and Elvis Presley. Capturing the essence of an era long gone by, a vintage photograph from the 1930s showcases Wilson Dam against a backdrop of Muscle Shoals' picturesque landscape. Its creator remains unknown, yet their work immortalizes this grand structure for generations to come. During World War II, Wilson Dam took on new significance as it became instrumental in supporting national defense efforts. Foreman Lincoln Johnson oversaw operations at this critical juncture when every ounce of energy was vital for victory. The New Deal brought about positive change through initiatives such as the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). In 1942, CCC workers were captured diligently weeding pine seedlings near Wilson Dam – evidence of how this landmark served not just as an economic powerhouse but also as a catalyst for job creation during challenging times. A glimpse into history reveals captivating images showcasing the construction process itself. These snapshots from around 1922 depict laborers working tirelessly to bring Wilson Dam to life – an awe-inspiring testament to human determination and innovation. Beyond its functional purpose lies another aspect that adds charm to Wilson Dam - its scenic beauty. Against dawn's first light, electrical power lines gracefully intertwine with Florence's Renaissance Tower nearby; together they create an enchanting sight that captures both nature's tranquility and man-made brilliance. Today, visitors can witness firsthand how Wilson Lock and Dam continue to generate electrical power, sustaining the region's growth and prosperity.