History is often hidden in the most unexpected places, waiting to be uncovered. In the recent winter months, Shaver Lake, located in the Sierra National Forest of Fresno County, CA, has been drained, revealing old remnants of the dam from the 1920s. Along with the viewing of recently submerged items, the facts and stories behind them provide a better understanding of the area.
In order to install a membrane to the front of the new Shaver Dam, Shaver Lake was drained, revealing a historic view of the old dam. The old dam was last seen in 1927, yet has survived in great condition after being submerged under water all these years. The valve house, smoke pipes, water wheels and much more are visible at the lake bottom until March 2012 when the lake will be refilled.
From the water line, spectators are able to view the lake bottom. They are able to see many of the smoke stacks, boilers, water wheels and the building that still houses the valves that remain of the old dam.
“That building has been underwater since 1927,” Emmert said. “Surprisingly it has not disintegrated. You can still see rock over the top of boilers, and four boilers that are encased in that rock. There is a big wheel which up close it is attached to a steam engine.”
The lake is scheduled to be refilled sometime in March, when these old remnants will once again be submerged in water. The next time this scene will be revealed could be after the membrane wears of the dam, which could be over 100 years.
The Fresno area is in the midst of a dry rain and snow year and much of the lake bed remains within clear view of the staging areas. Those visitors with binoculars and high powered camera with telephoto lens can capture clear unobstructed views of the old mill remains.
For more information, read Tynin Fries’ Feb. 15, 2012 article, Dam drainage reveals historic landmarks.