More than a century ago, one of Gadsden’s native sons, Captain William Patrick Lay, took the first steps toward building a hydroelectric plant on the Coosa River – a move that changed the face of Alabama forever.

Because of this riverboat captain’s vision, the state’s first interconnected electric system was created with the founding of Alabama Power, and the opening of Gadsden Steam Plant and Lay Dam on the Coosa River.

Alabama Power and the Messenger newspaper of Gadsden are partnering to bring this important story to students in the region. A six-page newspaper, entitled the Gadsden Centennial, has been developed to introduce fourth-graders to the history of electricity in the state and the role their region has played. It will be distributed to public and private schools in Gadsden, Attalla and Etowah County.

“Since its founding, Alabama Power has always played a vital role in education in our state,” said John Hudson, president of the Alabama Power Foundation. “In continuing with this tradition, we are pleased to give local students the opportunity to learn about the history of our company and how it got its start in the Gadsden area.”

The newspaper, written by Leah Rawls Atkins with help from Danny Crownover, executive director of the Etowah Historical Society, will be released as part of the celebration of Gadsden Steam Plant’s centennial.

“Alabama Power has always been an important stimulus in the Gadsden community,” said Gadsden Mayor Sherman Guyton. “One of the many areas in which Alabama Power plays an important role is the realm of education. The implementation of programs that offer tutoring, mentoring and career education for our students has been a positive influence in our schools. Alabama Power participates in career/education fairs held throughout our community. We are very proud to be a partner with Alabama Power.”