Much of what we recognize as modern, urban, industrialized Georgia can be credited to the availability and development of water power. Historic dams, originally through direct mechanical drives and later through electrical generation and transmission, provided significant impetus for the growth of the state. Additionally, the scale, scope, effort, and ingenuity involved in the construction of large dams makes them awe inspiring structures. Despite their contribution to our culture, and the complex context surrounding their construction, dams are often overlooked as historic resources. This thesis studies historic dams from around the country to establish a context for examining Georgia's own dams. How are they unique resources, deserving of a discrete set of tools for preservation? Four Georgia dams are evaluated and suggestions are made based on the conclusions found.