Hydropower: It takes a village

When we think about hydropower in Alabama, we often imagine the impressive dams and vast reservoirs that harness the power of our rivers. But behind these great structures, like Lay Dam in Chilton County, is a story that involves much more than just engineering marvels. It’s a tale of communities coming together to support these projects, and how they ultimately helped shape the landscape of Alabama.

The village behind the dam 

Built in 1914, Lay Dam was Alabama Power’s first major hydropower project, harnessing the power of the Coosa River to generate electricity. To support the ambitious project, it took a village. The nearest town, Clanton, Alabama, was ten to twelve miles away from the dam, so temporary settlements were built nearby to house the workers and their families. Alabama Power placed great importance on the overall wellbeing of the workers through the establishment of community life. The villages quickly grew, with makeshift barracks evolving into more permanent homes, and new schools, churches, shops, hospitals and recreational spots transforming the area into a lively community. 

A day in the life of a dam-building town

Life in the village during the dam’s construction was a whirlwind of activity. Workers worked hard – often ten-hour shifts in the hot sun – but they also enjoyed the community life. The town buzzed with dances, picnics, local fairs, cooking schools, hot dog suppers and so many other exciting activities for all to participate in. The “dam kids” enjoyed a swimming pool and tennis courts provided by Alabama Power. There was even a highly competitive Lay Dam baseball team that traveled to play other teams and hosted games at their own park in the village too. People came together for these events, creating bonds that laid the foundation for close-knit community. The villages weren’t just supporting the dams; they grew alongside them. 

Powering progress with sustainability

While the villages thrived with new community activities, the impact of Lay Dam extended far beyond the local town. Hydropower, as Alabama Power’s first major source of electricity, marked a significant step forward in energy. By harnessing the flow of rivers, hydropower generates electricity with minimal environmental impact. In the early 20th century, it set the stage for modern energy solutions and demonstrated the potential of clean, renewable resources to power not just industries but also everyday lives in Alabama.