Oahe Dam 50^th Anniversary to be Celebrated August 17

 

PIERRE, SD - Plans are under way to commemorate the dedication of the Oahe Dam with a 50^th anniversary celebration.

 

The commemoration will feature a short program outside the visitor center overlooking Lake Oahe on Friday, August 17, at 11:00 a.m. The Dam was dedicated on this same date and time in 1962 by President John F. Kennedy.

 

Eric Stasch, Operations Project Manager Oahe Project, stated that construction of this dam has had a huge impact on not only the surrounding area but the entire nation. Since this anniversary event is happening 50 years after the dedication of the dam by President John F. Kennedy, it is fitting to remember his quote.

 

      "We take for granted these miracles of engineering, and too often we see no connection between this dam (Oahe) right out here and our Nation's security, and our leadership all around the world.  The facts of the matter are that this dam, and many more like it, are as essential to the expansion and growth of this American economy as any measure that Congress is now considering, and this dam and others like it are as essential to our National strength and security as any military alliance or missile complex." John F. Kennedy, Aug 17, 1962, Oahe Powerhouse dedication

 

We look forward to seeing everyone at this 50th anniversary commemoration. 

 

The South Dakota State Historical Society has activities planned which will take place at the Cultural Heritage Center, the Oahe Chapel, and the State Theater on August 17 and 18. These include a presentation and identification of construction photos, a showing of film footage of President Kennedy’s visit to Pierre and construction of the Dam, tours of the Oahe Chapel, and a reception and brunch for Oahe Dam workers and their families hosted by the SDSHS Foundation. 

 

Special extended tours of the Powerhouse and Intakes of Oahe Dam will be conducted by U.S. Army Corps of Engineers personnel on Friday, August 17. The Great Lakes Tourism Association, which manages the Oahe Visitor Center, is also planning special programs on Saturday, August 18.

 

As details of additional events and activities are finalized, information will be posted at www.pierre.org.  Visit the U.S. Army Corps of Engineer’s Omaha District Facebook page for historical and event information and to follow comments at https://www.Facebook.com/OmahaUSACE