The City of Elberton held an election on March 18, 1895. In this
election, the citizens authorized the town to issue $12,000.00 in
bonds for the purpose of establishing and maintaining an electric
light system.
A powerhouse was built on Beaverdam Creek to supply the town
with all the power it needed. The power plant served the community,
with the aid of power purchases from GA. Power Company, until 1952,
when it was abandoned.
An operator had to be on duty at all times to start and stop the
big generators that produced the power for the town. The city of
Elberton owned two houses near the plant where these employees
lived. Ollie Thornton and Joseph Matthew Pulliam were operators of
the plant before 1944, when Joseph Pulliam died. After his death,
Lev Meredith Chastain worked there until it ceased operation. There
was a spring that provided a good source of fresh water for
employees and visitors alike. The towns people were frequent
visitors to the plant as a source of recreation in those days. It
provided a great swimming place, complete with beach. The rocks
below the dam made a good slide. Then when the generators stopped,
it was the best time and place to fish, just below the plant.
The old electric plant is only history now, but was once a vital
part of the activities for the people of Elberton. The only
structure left is the foundation and the dam itself.
While in the area, take time to look around, play on the rocks
and swing on the ropeswing. Enjoy! :D