Overshot waterwheels generated mechanical energy that operated all of Tredegar's furnaces and machinery from the time of the Iron Work's founding in 1837 until just after the American Civil War.

Turbines replaced Tredegar's waterwheel by the late 19th century, but one constant remained: Water was the fuel that powered Tredegar.

How Did They Work?

Belts and Pulleys
The resulting kinetic energy activated belts and pulleys that operated lathes and other powerful machinery inside Tredegar's nearby machine shop.

Drive Shaft
A long rod, called a drive shaft, rotated as the wheel turned, creating mechanical power.

Water
Water entered the top of the wheel and spilled over into each bucket, causing the wheel to turn.

From the Kanawha Canal - To the James River

Wind Box
Waterpower was also likely used to stoke the iron furnace inside Tredegar's Central Foundry. As the waterwheel turned, a small fan—or wind box—pushed air into the furnace to intensify the fire.


Look!
This replica is representative of the many overshot waterwheels that once populated the site.

(caption)
The waterwheel fed energy to these long belts, which powered Tredegar's machine shops. The Valentine

This
overshot waterwheel replica was made possible by generous support from BB&T Bank.

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Show me all markers in:  Richmond, VA  |  23219  |  Virginia  |  United States of America

Overshot Waterwheel
Southern Firepower
Southern Firepower Historical
Civil War Visitor Center
Gateway to the Civil War
Historic Tredegar
Early Industrial Patterns
Adapting Power
Toledo 1000-ton Press
Francis Turbine

• GPX
• KML
• LOC

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