The Folsom Powerhouse State Historical Park, nestled on the hillside just southwest of Folsom’s Rainbow Bridge, is a preserved, significant national treasure from 1895, largely unknown to many in our region. Its non-profit cooperating association, FFPA–Friends of the Folsom Powerhouse, is currently seeking additions to its Board of Directors.
In 2022, the Folsom Powerhouse received IEEE Milestone Status. The IEEE is the world’s largest professional society representing electrical and electronics engineering. Regarding the Powerhouse’s significance– a plaque erected in the park states, “Folsom was one of the earliest electrical plants to generate three-phase alternating current, and the first using three-phase, 60 hertz. On 13 July 1895, General Electric generators began transmitting electricity 22 miles to Sacramento at 11,000 volts, powering businesses, street cars, and California’s capitol. The plant demonstrated advantages of three-phase, 60 hertz long distance transmission, which became standard, and promoted nationwide development of affordable hydropower.”
FFPA, Friends of the Folsom Powerhouse Association, raises funds, provides support to CA State Parks, its docents, and many specific projects deemed necessary for the Powerhouse grounds. We sponsor “Powerfest” each year in June which is a beer and entertainment event at the park featuring tours and a day of fun. The association owns a vintage Ford Model A 1932 pickup truck which is present at local parade events and on display at the park.
You need not be an engineer, electrical, or water specialist to get involved as a board member. The board seeks volunteers with an interest in supporting this treasure—members offer their talents from a variety of different backgrounds.
On December 5 from 5p-7p, FFPA is hosting an Industry Mixer at the Historic Powerhouse Visitor Center. If you have an interest in the FFPA board, you are welcome to attend the mixer, tour the grounds, and meet the board and State Park representatives—please rsvp if you are able to attend.
For more information about FFPA, please contact Mike Frey at 916-765-6644 or mikef@srco.com.