June History Talk - Palisade Historical Society

Description

110th Birthday of the Roller Dam! The Palisade Historical Society’s monthly history talk at the Ordinary Fellow Winery, 202 Peach Avenue in Palisade, will celebrate the 110th birthday of the Grand River Diversion Dam – known as the “Roller Dam” – in DeBeque Canyon. It diverts water from the Colorado River into the 55-mile-long Government Highline Canal which now serves five canals with irrigation water for the Grand Valley from Palisade to Mack. There will be historic photos, videos, and a special guest speaker, Tina Bergonzini, General Manager of the Grand Valley Water Users’ Association, which operates the Dam and Government Highline Canal. She will share current updates and reinforce why the Roller Dam is integral to the success of this valley! The official dedication was on June 29th, 1915, when members of the Congressional Appropriations Committee were present. Ten years ago, the Historical Society called attention to the Valley’s vital irrigation history by hosting an all-day 100th birthday celebration in June 2015. An overflow crowd filled the Palisade Memorial Community Center to see a "Dam Art Show," exhibits, videos, and speakers - including then-congressman Scott Tipton, live music, delicious cakes from the Slice ‘ Life Bakery, and much more! Among the videos at this history talk will be the popular "That DAM Water Keeps US Green" produced by Maggie Fellman of littlemargie productions which was created for the 100th birthday to highlight the importance of the Roller Dam to our life and agriculture economy in the Grand Valley. The talk will begin at 6 pm on Thursday, June 19th at The Ordinary Fellow Winery. This program is open to the public in a relaxed and comfortable setting for people to learn about Palisade’s unique history and enjoy a glass of wine. A birthday cake - again from the Slice o’ Life Bakery in Palisade - will be served, so come early to get a slice and a seat. There is no admission fee, but donations are appreciated.