Welcome to the site of the original Boysen Dam, a historical landmark nestled within the awe-inspiring landscape of Shoshoni, Wyoming. As you stand here, envision the transformative journey of this place—from a natural riverbed to a crucial part of the federal Pick-Sloan Missouri Basin program.
The story begins in 1908 when businessman Asmus Boysen constructed a small concrete dam across the Wind River. Though it was initially built for hydropower, this early dam set the stage for greater developments. The need for a more substantial structure became evident in the following decades due to spring floods that wreaked havoc on the surrounding communities, including notable incidents like the dramatic flood of 1906 that swept away bridges and submerged homes.
In the 1940s, Boysen Dam was reborn as part of a larger initiative to harness the power of the Missouri River and its tributaries for irrigation and hydropower. Authorized in 1944, this new dam became a beacon of hope for local farmers and ranchers who had long struggled with the region’s water scarcity. The dam’s construction was not just a feat of engineering but a reflection of the community’s resilience and foresight in embracing modern solutions to age-old challenges.
As you explore this historic site, imagine the bustling activity during its construction—the raising of highways and railroads to prepare for the reservoir, the lively camp of government and contractor workers, and the anticipation in local towns like Thermopolis, whose residents saw the dam as a harbinger of prosperity.
The new Boysen Dam was completed in the 1950s, and it has since played a pivotal role in storing water for agriculture, generating electricity, and preventing destructive floods. Its presence is a testament to the ingenuity and determination that characterized mid-20th century America, particularly in its endeavor to tame the formidable natural forces of the West.
