Even though President
Roosevelt dedicated the dam, the remaining workers on the project
knew that the dam wouldn’t be entirely completed for several more
months. The powerhouses and spillways had to be completed and decorative
elements applied, such as the installment of commemorative statues.
Gradually, the work force that had once reached over 5000 began to
taper off as men completed their jobs and headed for other projects
such as the construction of the Shasta Dam.
As men and families packed their belongings and headed for various destinations, many others chose to make their way in Boulder City.
A thriving town had sprouted out of the utilitarian grouping of government and company buildings. Stores, restaurants, homes, hotels,
and even a movie theater contributed to the growing sense of community among the residents. Families had become attached to the little
oasis and decided to make it into a permanent home.
The smaller company houses were torn down, but the larger ones
could be bought for $250. Though still considered a United States
reservation and federally governed until the 1960s, Boulder City
grew into a model American town focused on maintaining the values
that had made it successful. The pride, strength, camaraderie, creativity
and perseverance that were so important in the construction of the
dam were well translated into the family town of Boulder City.
