In 1919, Pacific Gas & Electric Company announced an ambitious $100 million project to construct five dams and powerhouses on the Pit River in eastern Shasta County.
In 1923, construction began on the Pit No. 3 Powerhouse with an estimated cost $13.5 million. On July 18, 1925 dedication ceremonies were hold upon its completion. As was customary in the morning an assortment of dignitaries gave speeches, When they were done Miss Bernice Downing a newspaper woman from Santa Cruz threw switches and the power plant was in operation. After that, the guests were escorted to the construction camp and treated to an elaborate lunch.
The dam, of course, created Lake Britton. It was named for then PG&E’s Vice President John Britton.