[IA] Keokuk, view toward the locks on the Mississippi River - USA
Keokuk Dam and Lock No. 19 - one of the most impressive hydraulic structures along the Mississippi River
Keokuk is a small city in southeastern Iowa, where the Mississippi River, Des Moines River, and Illinois border meet. With a population of approximately 10,000, Keokuk is a historically significant place, known for its role in trade, steamboat traffic, and hydroelectric development during the 19th and early 20th centuries. Keokuk's name comes from the Indian chief who led parts of the Sauk people, and the place still bears traces of the rich indigenous culture. Keokuk's location on the river has strongly influenced Keokuk. One of the first and largest locks and hydroelectric plants on the Mississippi was built here, completed in 1913. Keokuk Dam, along with the adjacent power plant, was an engineering feat in its time and remained one of the largest hydroelectric plants in the world for a long time. The massive concrete structure is still an important part of the city's identity and is still in use today. Today, Keokuk is characterized by a small-town feel with historic buildings, museums, parks, and viewpoints along the river. The view of the Mississippi River from Rand Park or from the bridge connecting Iowa and Illinois is especially beautiful at sunset. Keokuk is also known for its eagle safari in the winter, when masses of American bald eagles gather on the ice-free waters below the dam.
Keokuk Dam and Lock No. 19 - one of the most impressive hydraulic structures on the Mississippi River. The lock is known for its length and capacity. At over 1,200 feet (360 meters) long, it was long the largest lock on the Mississippi and is still one of the longest. It was built to handle the heavy commercial traffic that the river carried during the height of the steamboat era and which today handles barges and river freight. Adjacent to the dam is also one of the oldest hydroelectric plants in the United States - a large complex of buildings with impressive concrete and brick architecture, which is still in operation. This power plant was long the largest hydroelectric plant in the world outside Niagara Falls.
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