Davis Island Lock and Dam Site

The Davis Island Lock and Dam Site are the remains of an engineering structure on the Ohio River near Avalon. The site includes a dam and lock that worked together to control water flow and allow river traffic to pass through.

The site was completed in 1885 by the United States Army Corps of Engineers and was the first lock and dam structure on the Ohio River. It became an important part of improving river navigation in this area.

The site received recognition on the National Register of Historic Places in 1980 and became a National Historic Civil Engineering Landmark in 1985.

The site is located near Pennsylvania Route 65 and is relatively easy to reach by car. It is maintained by the West View Water Authority and open for visitors to explore.

The site was known for its innovative Chanoine dam design that was groundbreaking for the 19th century. It also introduced the first rolling lock gate in the United States, a technical solution that influenced other river facilities.

Location: Avalon

Inception: 1885

Architects: United States Army Corps of Engineers

GPS coordinates: 40.49306,-80.06556

Latest update: December 14, 2025 13:01