What in the world is EBR-1??

Well, today I found out.  On December 20, 1951, EBR-1 became the first power plant to produce usable electricity using atomic energy.  And it did just that until 1964 when it was decommissioned.  By the way, EBR stands for Experimental Breeder Reactor and the 1 is because it was the first one in the world.  I was able to join in for the second half of a guided tour of the plant.
All of the other participants were members of a Boy Scout Troop, so I was the Granny in the bunch.  :)  I must say that they were all pretty good about not standing in front of me, since they were just about all taller than me.  The fellow on the right even posed for me and showed me how to use the “hands on” mechanical arm that he was practicing on.  It would take quite a bit of practice to become proficient with this tool, and all the boys were giving the two arms their undivided attention. 
Just before the boys were let loose to try their hands at the manipulators, the guide gave a demonstration of a Geiger counter.  It was interesting to see how much radiation is present in things like Fiesta ware, and Coleman lantern mantles.  While the boys monopolized the manipulators, I headed back to do the self guided first half of the tour.
Steam created by the reactor’s heat rotated this turbine, which turned the generator to make electricity.    That really bright spot is four light bulbs just like the original ones that were strung here for that historic day in 1951.
EBR-1 staff members chalked their names on the wall in back of the turbine on that day to commemorate their achievement.

All in all, it was a very interesting tour.  Everything is explained well in the tour pamphlet, and there are quite a few places to listen to short videos of interviews with the men who had worked here.  In, 1966, President Lyndon B. Johnson came and participated in the dedication ceremony designating EBR-1 as a Registered National Historic Landmark.  So, you can get your National Parks Passport stamped here.  :)  It is open to the public from Memorial Day to Labor Day, and is free!  There are also two huge aircraft nuclear engine prototypes next to the parking lot, but I’m not into looking at big engines.  :(  The only issue is getting here.
It is located pretty much in the middle of nowhere, a short distance off of US 20 about 20 miles east of Arco.  Could it be that they wanted it in the middle of nowhere in those days in case something went wrong?  Hmm, guess I should have asked about that.

Thanks for stopping by….talk to you later,  Judy