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Image courtesy of the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum.
Image courtesy of the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum.
Boulder Dam
Image courtesy of the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum.
Image courtesy of the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum.

Boulder Dam

Artifact IDMO 1941.12.7
Object Type Model
Artist (American, 1907 - 1952)
Maker
Date1935
Mediumaluminum
Dimensionsoverall H 7 1/8 in x W 14 1/2 in x D 19 1/2 in (18.1 cm x 36.8 cm x 49.5 cm )
Physical DescriptionA model of the Boulder Dam showing the Colorado River, the dam, and part of the mountainous Black Canyon landscape on either side of the river. There are two removable powerhouses at the base of dam.

On one end of the model is a metal plaque inscribed BOULDER DAM / AND POWER PLANT followed by the dimensions and specifications of the dam. On the same end, in the lower right corner, is the manufacturer's information: MFD. BY / HOSEK MFG. CO. / DENVER, COLO.

On both long sides of the model are doors that flip down to reveal underground mechanisms. On one side, the exterior of the door features the image of an eagle. Inscribed on the interior of the door: THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA / FRANKLIN D. ROOSEVELT PRESIDENT / DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR / HAROLD L. ICKES SECRETARY / BUREAU OF RECLAMATION / ELWOOD MEAD COMMISSIONER. On either side of the interior inscription are lists of those involved in the dam’s creation.

On the other long side, the door features an image of five Native American scenes with the wording: NAVIGATION POWER FLOOD CONTROL IRRIGATION WATER SUPPLY. On the lower right of the door is the artist’s name: GLADYS CALDWELL. Inscribed on the interior of the door is a list of the dam’s principal contractors.
Historical NoteThis model of the Boulder Dam, now known as the Hoover Dam, was one of several copies. It was given to President Roosevelt by the Denver Office of the Bureau of Reclamation through Elwood Mead, Commissioner, on December 10, 1935. The artist, Gladys Caldwell, was a sculptor for the Federal Arts Project.
Additional Details
Custodial History NoteReceived at the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library in 1941. It was formally donated to the FDR Library in 1947 through FDR's Estate.
Credit LineEstate of Franklin D. Roosevelt
National Archives Catalog CollectionFranklin D. Roosevelt Library Museum Collection (National Archives Identifier 735948)
National Archives Catalog SeriesGift Items and Commemorative Artifacts (National Archives Identifier 782690)
Use Restriction StatusUnrestricted
CopyrightReproduction or other use of these holdings or images thereof is unrestricted.
In Collection(s)
Not on view
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