The Hoover Dam is as much a visual masterpiece as it is an engineering marvel. The popular manmade sightseeing destination draws approximately 7 million visitors annually. The dam is distinctive and impressive for both its imposing height and rich history. If you’re planning a visit to this landmark, the following guide offers some interesting background information that will help you get more out of the experience.

How It All Began

The United States Congress enacted the Boulder Canyon Project Act in 1928. It was established as a means of preventing further destruction caused by the Colorado River, which would remain dehydrated in the summer and flood throughout springtime. The influx of water damaged farmlands, and government officials recognized that the most effective way of establishing control was to build a dam.

Construction on the dam began in 1931 under the authorization of President Herbert Hoover. His mission was to develop a structure spanning the border of Arizona and Nevada that better controlled the Colorado River’s flow, offered a more dependable water supply to Southern California, and irrigated local lands efficiently. The project required the efforts of about 16,000 builders, and the job was complete by 1935.

The Great Depression

The Hoover Dam is more than just a functional structure worthy of a sightseeing trip, and it stands out even in the 21^st century for the way it transformed the country. Since its construction started two years into the Great Depression, it coincided with a period of turmoil and tumult in America. Millions of people were unemployed, leaving the economy in shambles.

The infrastructure project, which was financed by the government, positively impacted the nation by providing thousands of men and women from all over the country with employment opportunities. Laborers often worked in tunnels in temperatures over 120 degrees. The workforce was so strong that the government developed a town called Boulder City, where the workers and their families could reside for the duration of the build.

Interesting Facts

The Hoover Dam measures 726 feet tall; it required 5 million barrels of cement to construct, along with 45 million pounds of steel for reinforcement. The design was such a success that it remains one of the most significant dams in the country, and it can provide water to more than 2 million acres.

The iconic structure is a National Historic Landmark and was rated among America’s Seven Modern Civil Engineering Wonders by the American Society of Civil Engineers. Today, tourists and locals travel to the area specifically to enjoy guided tours of both the dam and Boulder City.

If you’re ready to plan an epic sightseeing trip and take an unforgettable tour of the Hoover Dam, turn to Laughlin Tours. This company is located in Laughlin, NV, and their experienced guides offer expansive excursions of the Hoover Dam, Grand Canyon, Route 66, and Oatman. Visit the website for more information, or call (702) 420-5345 to speak with a friendly representative about booking a trip.