We are in Arco, Idaho today.
As we drove into town yesterday we past the entrance to a small, non-descript building in the distance with a sign “EBR Atomic Museum”. After arriving at camp I saw a brochure for this museum in the office. Who knew, this building contained the world’s first Nuclear Power Station, and it is now open to the public?
Well today we drove back to the Museum and spent 2 1/2 hours on a guided tour. The only guest were Sandy, I, and a Professor of Mechanical Engineering from Boise State University. The tour guide was exceptional. She answered all of our questions. All this for free. Turns out that this small Yellowish Brick/Cement building used Atomic Energy to self power its building on Dec 21, 1951. It is decommissioned now, but what a story. AMAZING. Pictures Below.
PS. For my Square D friends. The building contained old (1950 vintage) Square D Safety Switches, and Combo Starters. It also contained GE and Westinghouse Gear.
We also did a number of small hikes at the Craters of the Moon National Monument. Turns out the landscape was created years ago from a number of Lava Flows. NASA Astronauts used this area in prepartation for the Moon Landing.
I must admit I liked the EBR Atomic Museum much better than the Craters of the Moon. I would say that Sandy enjoyed the Craters of the Moon more than the Museum. It was a win for both of us today.
Craters of the Moon and EBRI way cool. Idaho how great that must be, so glad your having so much fun and learning a lot be sides. We hope to be following in your footsteps soon. Your RV Buds
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