The Columbia: America's Greatest Power Stream (1949)

"The Columbia" is the most famous movie produced by BPA's Motion Picture Information division. This film was originally slated as a remake of the 1939 film "Hydro," but production was shelved because of World War II. The production was then resurrected following the Vanport flood of 1948. Like "Hydro," "The Columbia" illustrates the economic and societal value of the Federal Columbia River Power System and affordable electricity. BPA information officer Stephen Kahn used footage and music from "Hydro," but inserted the war industries, flood control, and of course, the music of Woody Guthrie, whom BPA employed in 1941 to write songs inspired by the great Columbia River and Pacific Northwest. Learn about other BPA films at: www.bpa.gov/goto/Films.

[@hacerclic1020]

I live in eastern Washington state and it is fascinating to see the history of this project that transformed this part of the country. This spirit of optimism and hard work is almost unimaginable today. Many take for granted the comfort and prosperity we enjoy today and have no appreciation for where we came from and the incredible efforts it took to get here. Some are even trying to remove the dams.

[@omniversiddhialterdestiny]

Roll On Woody Happy Birthday !!!

[@101Sailorfan]

It's actually an amazing piece, thank you for sharing it! I thought it was fascinating!

[@markwandrey2937]

This is 2022. Some would call this propaganda. Consider the times and forget 2020. Civilization needed energy, and hydro was a growing step forward at the time. In 1950, natural resources seemed endless and manageable. Not so much now, as time leads to adjustment of viewpoint. As one raised in that time, this film captures what was . . . not is.

[@duncanmaclean1001]

A fascinating look at the PNW of the time.

[@MichaelGriford]

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