Gold Ray, 1903-2010 (Part 1).mpg

In the first segment of the Gold Ray documentary, we learn about the history of the first hydroelectric plant in Southern Oregon. When the Frank and Charles Ray first conceived of the idea of damming up the Rogue River to provide hydroelectric power to Southern Oregon, many people didn't believe it was possible. Those who believed it couldn't conceive of the need for that much electricity. But the Rays persisted and the Rogue Valley was one of the first places on the West Coast to have electricity. The Rays conceived of Gold Ray as more than just an industrial site, but a monument to the new technology that would (and did) usher in a new age. Gold Ray became a thriving tourist attraction and social center as well as an industrial complex.

Category:

Science & Technology

Tags:

• Gold Ray
• dam
• powerhouse
• turbines
• crib dam
• rope driven generators
• pulleys
• hydroelectic power
• history
• Oregon
• Charles Ray
• Frank Ray
• Dr Charles Ray
• Col Frank Ray
• Ray brothers