Big Sioux River Falls - Sioux Falls South Dakota - 003
by Frank J Benz
Title
Big Sioux River Falls - Sioux Falls South Dakota - 003
Artist
Frank J Benz
Medium
Photograph - Photography
Description
The Big Sioux River Falls - Sioux Falls South Dakota
The Big Sioux River passes through the beautiful city of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and on its journey it passes through what is now a beautifully maintained and gorgeous public park of approximately 123 acres in size. An average of 7,400 gallons of water drop 100 feet over the course of the Falls every second. The Falls of the Big Sioux River in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, have been at the center of recreation and industry since the city was founded in 1856. On the east bank of the Falls can be found the remains of the seven-story Queen Bee Mill which opened on October 25, 1881. The mill was constructed of Sioux Quartzite that was quarried on site. Also located on the east side of the Falls is the old Sioux Falls Light and Power building that was completed in 1908. This power plant had three 500-kilowatt hydroelectric generators and used the dam and the millrace from the Queen Bee Mill. In the years that followed the power plant added additional coal-fired steam generators to meet the expanding requirements for electric power. The power plant was abandoned in 1974 and donated to the city in 1977. The building remains in similar condition as when it was first constructed and now has been remodeled into the Falls Overlook Cafe that serves a variety of family friendly food and has several historical items on display. There is also a nice gift shop located by the falls with an observation tower that one can take up to an open air viewing are giving a nice view of the river, the falls, the park and some of the downtown area of Sioux Falls - there is no charge to use the elevator, or the stairs if you prefer, to reach the top of the tower. If you ever find yourself in the Sioux Falls, South Dakota area, take a break and spend some time enjoying the Falls Park and taking in the views and sounds of the Big Sioux River Water Falls.
Uploaded
July 9th, 2016
Embed
Share