The Power House: Electrifying History
Puns aside, I knew heading into this exploration that Anyox still housed a few iconic buildings. But nothing could have prepared us for the sheer awe and wonder that awaited inside this massive structure.
Just below the remains of the smelter lies Anyox’s original hydroelectric plant, constructed between 1910 and 1911 at the base of Falls Creek. Built to power the smelter and support other site needs, it was a critical lifeline of the town’s operations.
Even with large sections of the roof missing, leaving the interior exposed to the elements, the plant still holds a surprising amount of original equipment. Partially stripped-down turbines, an overhead crane that still functions (operated by chain and pulley), along with steam pipes and fragments of compressors, all stand as remnants of its industrial past.
During its operational years, the building was meticulously maintained. Historical photos reveal the pride and care invested here — a standard that could rival even modern facilities. True to the spirit of Anyox, this power house was once the most advanced of its kind on the West Coast.
