HAGLEY IS PLANNING YET ANOTHER WAY to demonstrate the power of water, one that will have a remarkable impact on the visitor experience. A turbine installed on the property will be used to harness water power and provide electricity for vehicles to transport visitors.
The bus charging site was originally the location of an early version of a Victor model turbine manufactured by the Stilwell & Bierce Manufacturing Company of Dayton, Ohio. DuPont’s company records has the purchase of the turbine listed as following: “E. I. DuPont de Nemours & Co., Powder Works, Wilmington, Delaware, 18-feet head, 15-inch wheel, displaced overshot.” “Displaced overshot” refers to the fact that the turbine was being purchased to replace an overshot waterwheel.
As the Victor turbine was not restorable for use, a Rechard turbine from an earlier excavation was chosen for restoration and use. Research uncovered a testimonial in a catalogue from the Baugher, Kurtz, and Stewart Company of York, Pennsylvania, suppliers of Rechard turbines. Of particular interest is the mention of the failure of the Victor turbine, and it also demonstrates the widespread use of the Rechard turbines throughout the site.
The hydroelectric turbine re-creation will represent Hagley’s fourth site where water is used as the source of power. Farthest upstream is the Birkenhead waterwheel, the early form of harnessing water power. The incorporating Eagle roll mill, powered by a water turbine, represents the highest level of development in mixing ingredients. A turbine also powers metal-cutting machinery in the Machine Shop.
This project represents a major addition to Hagley and demonstrates Hagley’s innovation and commitment to restoring operating equipment for public demonstrations and exemplifies how water can be used to provide sustainable, environmentally safe, and efficient power.