Route 66 in the News

Celebrating the Powerhouse

2009-09-23 21:31:35

KINGMAN, Ariz. - Kingman celebrates a new centenarian in October; a true character full of history, harboring an energizing past -- speaking here, of course, of the Powerhouse.

One hundred years ago, the Powerhouse (Desert Power & Water Company) first lit up the mines in Goldroad, Oatman and Chloride. By October, most businesses downtown had transmission lines carrying juice through thick copper lines into their establishments, revolutionizing the industry of business.

After sitting idle 58 years, a group led by Toby Orr revitalized the structure. In 1997, the Powerhouse was re-opened as an official state visitor center and the home of the Arizona Historic Route 66 Association. The Route 66 Museum soon followed, making the site a living historic landmark and roadside attraction.

To celebrate, the Kingman Downtown Merchants Association is hosting a parade and Walk-in-the-Park Fall Festival at the Powerhouse and adjacent Locomotive Park the weekend of Oct. 17 and 18.

Food and crafts vendors will be throughout Locomotive Park with entertainment consisting of the Ballet Folklorico, a Kingman's Got Talent event and local bands playing into the evening.

Gold panning demonstrations will be given by the Mohave County Prospectors Association all day Saturday.

The 2nd Annual Route 66 Rotary Oktoberfest also coincides with live entertainment, serving beer and brats Saturday.

For more information on the event, contact the Powerhouse Visitor Center at (866) 427-7866 or locally call (928) 753-6106.

~Kingman Daily Miner