It was a birthday celebration like no other after nearly 40,000 people showed up at Norris Dam to wish it a happy 80th birthday.
The inside of the dam has been closed to the public since September 11, 2001 but it was opened again for people to take a tour to see how the dam operates.
"What they did here 80 years ago is amazing," said Jim Lane as he waited in line for the tour. "This by far, seeing it from this point of view is fantastic. It's thrilling to see."
Norris Dam is a breathtaking sight for many first timers, and for some -- it's a familiar view.
"It's actually really cool to see a piece of history that's been in my backyard my entire life," said Damin Truan who grew up in Anderson County.
Travis Brickey with the Tennessee Valley Authority said the turnout for Norris Dam's birthday celebration was encouraging and exciting.
"We've seen entire families from the young kids up to the grandparents all coming out here to experience Norris Dam and that's just great. We can't be more happier," he said.
To learn more about Norris Dam and it's 80 years in operation, click here.