Reusens Dam

Reusens Dam is a concrete gravity structure spanning about 725 feet across the James River and impounding a reservoir with roughly 580 acres of surface water. Two power stations situated on the right bank contain a total of five turbines that generate approximately 12.5 megawatts of electricity.

The structure was completed in 1903 and quickly became an important hydroelectric facility on a key section of the river in Virginia. This project marked a turning point in the region's industrialization and helped bring electricity to nearby communities.

The dam reflects Virginia's early industrial development and has shaped the region's energy systems for generations. Visitors can observe how this facility connected technological progress to the local economy along the river's shores.

The site is best visited during drier months when water levels are stable and the shoreline is more accessible to visitors. Access to the dam structure itself depends on local regulations and safety guidelines, so advance inquiry is advisable before planning your visit.

The dam includes an eight-gate flood control system that manages the river during extreme weather events with carefully engineered precision. A 125-foot concrete arch segment equipped with specialized spillway boards displays the technical sophistication of the original construction from over a century ago.

Location: Amherst County

GPS coordinates: 37.46324,-79.18623

Latest update: December 14, 2025 17:43