What does the Plaquemine Lock, just 13 miles south of Baton Rouge, have in common with the Panama Canal, just across the Gulf of Mexico and Cayman Islands? Nothing, really, except that both are historic engineering feats designed by the same man. In fact, some experts contend that the Plaquemine Lock, as well as a number of other challenging projects, served as a learning experience for Col. George W. Goethals. When completed in 1909, the lock was significant for having the highest freshwater lift of any lock in the world — 51 feet — and a unique engineering design that utilized a gravity-flow principle. Increased river traffic during and after World War II put a severe strain on the lock’s capacity, and the demand led to a larger lock in Port Allen. In 1961, it was finally closed.
If that isn’t enough history for you, and you want to learn more about the early days of business and industry in the Bayou State, the Plaquemine Lock “illustrates the importance of waterways to Louisiana’s economy and culture,” says Stuart Johnson, assistant secretary for the Office of State Parks. That’s why state and local officials will be commemorating the 100th anniversary of the local lock’s opening on Saturday. In 1972, the Plaquemine Lock structure was placed on the National Register of Historic Places and today it houses a number of attractions on its 5-acre site. Ceremonies will begin at 10 a.m. For more information, visit lastateparks.com or call 888-677-1400.—Jeremy Alford
