Friends of the Folsom Powerhouse Association

Imagine what life was like before electricity and then think about the profound changes in your life today because we have it. The Folsom Powerhouse was instrumental in bringing these changes to you. It was one of the first powerhouses in the U.S. to send high voltage alternating current over long distance transmission lines when it sent 11,000 volts over 22 miles to light up Sacramento on July 13, 1895 and provide power to its homes and businesses. Although it was closed in 1952 it is the only example of a hydroelectric powerhouse still in its original configuration and accessible to the public. Visitors to the beautiful park site overlooking Lake Natoma can enjoy the visitor center with interactive exhibits, guided tours of the Powerhouse, walk nature trails to Indian Grinding Rocks, picnic in the area or fish in the lake.