Is There a Memorial for People Killed Building Dams?

Histories of the Grand Coulee Dam mention that 81 people lost their lives taming the Columbia River. But what about the McNary Dam? Wanapum? Ice Harbor? Are those men remembered properly for their sacrifice?

Dams don't just irrigate farms providing food for millions and give us carbon-free, renewable electricity. They also provide flood control saving lives and property. The men who died building those dams did so for a worthy cause, but are they acknowledged.

One local man said he's never found a list of people who died building McNary Dam, outside Umatilla, OR, but he personally knew two who did... and is aware there were more.

It's unlikely 81 died building one dam and far fewer did building the others. It's dangerous work.

As we approach Memorial Day, I'd like some answers! We need to memorialize these people!