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A new generator at Willamette Falls sent electricity 14 miles to downtown Portla
Featured Event 1889 Event

June 3

Long Wires Carry Power: The Grid Is Born

A new generator at Willamette Falls sent electricity 14 miles to downtown Portland, proving that long-distance power transmission was practical. This feat immediately unlocked industrial growth in the city by allowing factories to operate far from coal-burning steam engines.

June 3, 1889

137 years ago

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