Gem Mining Company Hydroelectric Plant

Abstract

Photograph showing the Gem Mining Company Hydroelectric Plant and its flume, penstock and power house. The Hydroelectric Plant (originally the Seaton Electric Company) was located along Clear Creek two miles east of Idaho Springs. This plant furnished power to the Gem Mills in Idaho Springs and to the Gem Mine in Gilson Gulch. The water supply for the plant, taken from Clear Creek, traveled through a six by six foot flume to the penstock behind the plant. From there two iron high pressure pipes carried the water to the plant seventy-eight feet below. Additional electricity for the Gem Mine and Gem Mills was supplied by the Gem Steam Electric Plant in Idaho Springs.