Santeetlah Dam

Santeetlah Dam is a hydroelectric structure on the Cheoah River in North Carolina that creates a large reservoir for power generation. The construction uses concrete and Classical Revival forms that were typical of early 20th-century water power facilities.

The facility was completed in 1928 by the Tallassee Power Company and pioneered the application of vibratory damping techniques for concrete construction. This innovation contributed to improving structural durability.

The National Register of Historic Places recognized the dam in 2004 for its role in early hydroelectric development and Classical Revival architectural elements.

The area around the facility is accessible, but offers limited viewpoints from public areas. Visitors should note that the surroundings are mostly private or used for operational purposes.

The powerhouse sits on the left bank of the reservoir, several miles upstream from another dam on the river. This arrangement enabled more efficient use of the river drop for electricity generation.

Location: Graham County

Architectural style: neoclassicism

GPS coordinates: 35.37750,-83.87630

Latest update: December 11, 2025 18:06