Navigating the Mississippi
An Engineering Chronicle of Lock and Dam No. 19: Exploring its historical significance, engineering prowess, and operational impact on a vital waterway artery.
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Project Overview
Geographic Context
Lock and Dam No. 19 is a critical piece of infrastructure situated on the Upper Mississippi River, straddling the border between Hamilton, Illinois, and Keokuk, Iowa. This facility plays a pivotal role in managing river navigation and power generation.
Engineering Milestone
Constructed between 1910 and 1913, the dam was a monumental undertaking for its time. Upon completion, it was recognized as the second-longest dam globally, surpassed only by the Aswan Low Dam in Egypt. Its primary purpose was to overcome the navigational challenges posed by the historic Des Moines Rapids.
Historical Significance
The facility's construction effectively obliterated the Des Moines Rapids, a natural barrier that had historically limited upstream navigation on the Mississippi. This transformation was crucial for enhancing river commerce and connectivity in the early 20th century.
Structural Components
The Lock System
The primary lock, constructed between 1952 and 1957, is a substantial engineering feat. Measuring 1,200 feet (366 meters) in length and 110 feet (34 meters) in width, it is designed to accommodate large tow barges. This modern lock replaced an earlier 1913 structure, significantly improving capacity and efficiency for river traffic.
The Dam and Spillways
The dam's movable portion extends 4,620 feet (1,408 meters) and features 119 rectangular steel gates, each measuring 30 feet (9 meters). The flow of the Mississippi River is regulated by installing or removing these gates, controlled by a gantry crane operating on the service bridge above.
Reservoir Creation
The dam impounds the Upper Mississippi River, creating Pool 19, also known as Lake Cooper. This reservoir has a total capacity of 292,000 acre-feet (0.360 km³) and serves a vast drainage basin covering approximately 119,000 square miles (310,000 km²).
Historical Context
Genesis of the Project
Efforts to improve navigation through the treacherous Des Moines Rapids began as early as 1837. The construction of Lock and Dam No. 19 represented the culmination of these efforts, fundamentally altering the river's course and navigability.
Historic Designation
The significance of Lock and Dam No. 19 is recognized through its inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places. Initially listed in 1978 (Ref. #78001234), it was later designated as the "Lock and Dam No. 19 Historic District" in 2004 (Ref. #04000179), encompassing 1,605 acres and numerous structures.
Hydroelectric Power Generation
Early Powerhouse
The associated Keokuk Power Plant, completed in 1913, was a groundbreaking facility. At its inception, it held the distinction of being the world's largest single-powerhouse electricity-generating plant by capacity. It was initially designed with 15 generators producing 25 Hz alternating current.
Power Transmission
In a remarkable feat of early electrical engineering, the Keokuk and Hamilton Water Power company secured contracts in 1910 to transmit electricity over 100 miles downstream to St. Louis, Missouri. This power supplied municipal transit systems and industrial clients, demonstrating the viability of long-distance power transmission.
Modernization and Operation
Owned and operated by Ameren Missouri, the Keokuk Energy Center has undergone significant modernization. The original 25 Hz generators have been progressively converted to the standard 60 Hz frequency, with the final conversions completed in 2002. Today, it remains the largest privately-owned and operated dam on the Mississippi River, with a capacity of 142 MW.
Operational Status & Management
Federal and Private Partnership
The facility operates under a dual management structure. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Rock Island District, oversees the lock operations, ensuring navigational passage. Ameren Missouri, a private entity, owns and operates the dam and powerhouse, managing hydroelectric generation.
Historic District Details
The Lock and Dam No. 19 Historic District, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, covers approximately 1,605 acres. It includes the main lock, dam structures, powerhouse, and associated buildings, recognizing its architectural and historical importance.
Related Infrastructure
The dam is situated near significant transportation links, including the Keokuk Rail Bridge and the Keokuk-Hamilton Bridge, further emphasizing its role within the regional transportation network.
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Disclaimer
Important Notice
This document has been generated by an AI and is intended for educational and informational purposes only. The content is derived from publicly available data, primarily Wikipedia, and may not reflect the most current operational status or all historical nuances. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy and adherence to the source material, users are advised to consult official sources for critical applications or decisions.
This is not professional engineering or historical advice. The information provided herein should not substitute for consultation with qualified civil engineers, historians, or relevant authorities. Always refer to official documentation and expert consultation for specific project requirements or historical research.
The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided.