Augusta Canal Interpretive Center

The mighty Enterprise Mill of Augusta, Georgia, revived after years of neglect, now houses the Augusta Canal Interpretive Center within the Augusta Canal National Heritage Area. Its exhibits and artifacts, on the ground floor of what is now a mixed-use building, depict canal construction and the mill life.

Built in 1845, the Augusta Canal was one of the few successful industrial canals in the American South. In the 21st century, it is again a source of pride and potential for its community.

Mad Systems designed and installed a video theater and numerous exhibits for the Center. A periscope allows visitorsto look into the generator room. Intricate, handmade models portray a weaving studio and a milling workshop. An interactive map shows the canal's busy past as a trading route and source of power. The Sculptoscope replicates a traditional flip-card viewer, and a touchscreen map helps guests plan the rest of their day in Augusta.

Visitors to the Interperative Center explore the generator room through this periscope connected to a video camera. The handle controls camera pan, tilt and zoom. The mechanism is very durable, right down to the custom-cut bushings. Pushing a button accesses an archive providing additional information on the various hot-spots in the room. What the periscope operator sees appears simultaneously on a video monitor for the benefit of other guests.

A detailed milling workshop model utilizesa real water wheel to generate electricity. The model was designed so that water is not actually required for its operation.

A special sound system, specified and installed by Mad Systems, contains thesound within the theater and preventsit leaking into the residential unitsabove. Mad Systems also suppliedand installed the screen, show control,acoustical design and lighting for thisvideo theater.

This interactive touchscreen map is a tourist information center. Guests to the Interpretive Center use it to learn about other attractions in the area and helpplan the rest of their visit to Augusta. Mad Systems provided the content as well as the system.