ASHLAND CITY, Tenn. (WKRN) — The construction of Cheatham Lock and Dam on the Cumberland River began in 1950, and the lock was opened to navigation in 1952.
The project became fully operational with the completion of the third generating unit in the power plant in November 1960.
History of power keg rivalry in Cheatham County
It was one of three dams that replaced the old locks and small dams built in the early 1900s to keep water high enough in the river for navigation and commerce year-round.
Besides maintaining water levels, it now provides flood risk management, hydropower, navigation, water quality and supply, and recreation…