Information Panel: Power of the Potomac

Power of the Potomac

NPS / Claire Hassler

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Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits

The Potomac River races east past you with enough mountain-carving power to punch through the Blue Ridge to your right. Such energy easily powered the entire national armory from the early 1800s until1861. Diverted by a dam upstream, river water flowed through the armory canal, dropping 22 feet over 1.5 miles. This falling water coursed through head races (entry points) and followed underground tunnels, turning water wheels and turbines as it flowed through pipes in the armory factories. Finally the water exited the armory grounds through tailraces (exit points) to rejoin the Potomac River.

Illustration Caption: Water flowed into armory buildings like the Stock House (above) through a series of tunnels and pipes, turning gears and powering machinery on the factory floors.