#tin-man — Public Fediverse posts
Live and recent posts from across the Fediverse tagged #tin-man, aggregated by home.social.
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Quirky Tin Family Sculpture by Debra Martz
The enchanted highway in North Dakota begins at I-94’s exit 72 and covers 32 miles along County Highway 21, ending in Regent. We were traveling south to north, so the first structure for us was actually considered the last one in Regent. This was located at mile 30, so it was the second one we stopped to visit.https://debra-martz.pixels.com/featured/quirky-tin-family-sculpture-debra-martz.html
#TinMan #family #quirky #fun #touristAttraction #photography #PhotographyIsArt #BuyIntoArt
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Movie TV Tech Geeks #TVFeatures #TinMan #ZooeyDeschanel After ‘Wicked: For Good,’ This Forgotten Miniseries Took Dorothy’s Story Down a Gritty New Path http://dlvr.it/TPwLfT
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Random Old Comic: Adventures In Oz https://www.toyboxcomix.com/2021/06/04/adventures-in-oz/ Adventures In Oz #Bigfoot #Clippy #CowardlyLion #DorothyGale #Fortnite #Scarecrow #TheWizardofOz #TinMan #Toto
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Random Old Comic: Adventures In Oz https://www.toyboxcomix.com/2021/06/04/adventures-in-oz/ Adventures In Oz #Bigfoot #Clippy #CowardlyLion #DorothyGale #Fortnite #Scarecrow #TheWizardofOz #TinMan #Toto
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Build A Scarecrow Day.
#scarecrow #g #halloween #batman #dccomics #joker #dc #wizardofoz #tinman #gotham #fall #dorothy #art #cowardlylion #scrim #grey #rubydacherry #brucewayne #records #thewizardofoz #pumpkin #jonathancrane #oddynuff #harleyquinn #suicideboys #autumn #robin #october #family #oz
https://itsmostamazingindia.wordpress.com/2025/07/06/build-a-scarecrow-day/
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OK, it's getting complicated now. Should Tam go? Who goes with him? Will the Romulans kill them? Will the star explode early?
And what about Naomi?#TinMan #StarTrekTNG #TNG #AllStarTrek @allstartrek
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OK, it's getting complicated now. Should Tam go? Who goes with him? Will the Romulans kill them? Will the star explode early?
And what about Naomi?#TinMan #StarTrekTNG #TNG #AllStarTrek @allstartrek
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Reporting for duty on #AllStarTrek. Yikes, the star could explode!
#TinMan #StarTrekTNG #StarTrek #TNG @allstartrek
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Reporting for duty on #AllStarTrek. Yikes, the star could explode!
#TinMan #StarTrekTNG #StarTrek #TNG @allstartrek
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Riker keeps rolling his eyes whenever Tam opens his mouth. 😂
#AllStarTrek #StarTrek #StarTrekTNG #TNG #TinMan @allstartrek
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Riker keeps rolling his eyes whenever Tam opens his mouth. 😂
#AllStarTrek #StarTrek #StarTrekTNG #TNG #TinMan @allstartrek
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Wild and wondrous water towers across the heartland
Below are some of the amazing water towers we saw over the past few weeks across the American Heartland. As can be seen, the range of styles, locations, and eras is impressive. Hope you enjoy the photos as much as we did seeing them.
Giant City State Park, ILGroom, TXDepew, OKLansing, MIMakanda, ILAdrian, TXBritten (Groom), TXRushville, INReelsville, INWhile each tower has it’s own storied history, I’ve gotta, say the space-age tower with and observation platform at Giant City State Park in Illinois is a treasure all to itself. More photos and backstory about this most extraordinary water tower will be included in a separate post. Peace!
Rend Lake, ILBristow, OKMountain View, MOAmarillo, TX Lynn, IN Willow Springs, MO Meridian Twp, MI#architecture #CET #cities #composite #design #engineering #fluted #fun #geography #history #hydropillar #Illinois #Indiana #landUse #Michigan #Missouri #NewMexico #Oklahoma #planning #preservation #spherical #Texas #TinMan #travel #water #waterTowers
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Working list: Tallest “Tin Man” water towers in the USA
Source: archive.org Source: cannerydistrict.com Source: archive.orgProbably those most beloved style of water tower, “Tin Man” tanks have been around well over a century. These tend to come in two styles – the shape of a standard soup can with a pointed cap roof and rounded hemispherical bottom (see image above), and – a wider, more stout version of the same design shaped like a can of Crisco (see image just below). While included in the listings, these towers are not identified as “Tin Man” towers due to the tank’s wider girth.
Source: waterworld.comBoth versions are charming, though the narrower version is more common and better resembles the Tin Woodman from the Wizard of Oz. Speaking of which, the nickname “Tin Man” for these water towers largely arose from that character (see quote and image below).
Source: pinterest.com“The ‘Tin Man’ towers were nicknamed for their shape: a conical roof with a ball finial, reminiscent of the ‘Wizard of Oz’ character.”
Source: stlnpr.org
The first list identifies the tallest “Tin Man” water towers for whom the data is available on the internet. The second is a partial list of those towers for whom the height is currently unknown. As more data is collected and found, this list will be updated accordingly.
Sadly, as time passes more and more of these charming, quaint structures are being lost to time, neglect, and shortsightedness. As a result, a third list is provided below the initial list of sources identifying those “Tin Man” water towers lost in recent years.
Source: mysanantonio.comThankfully, a number of communities across the country have found the funds and wherewithal to preserve, protect, and promote their historic “Tin Man” water towers as iconic focal points of downtown or a public park, as historic structures, as a branding option with the town logo, or as centerpieces of vibrant and active entertainment venues. Below are examples of cities/towns that deserve kudos for their successful preservation efforts (with photos of each water tower):
Arvada, Colorado
Source: youtube.comBelen, New Mexico
Source: photo by authorBozeman, Montana
Source: cannerydistrict.comFranklin, Tennessee
Source: williamsonsource.comGilbert, Arizona
Source: gilbertaz.govLittle Elm, Texas
Source: dunaway.comMillstadt, Illinois
Source: republictimes.netManassas, Virginia
Source: dhr.virginia.govOshkosh, Nebraska
Source: visitgardencounty.comYelm, Washington
Source: thurstontalk.comHopefully, more places will see the benefit(s) of rehabilitating and caring for their iconic “Tin Man” water towers so they can remain an integral part of the historic and cultural vibe of the community.
Peace!
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- Marston “Tin Man” Water Tower (1897): Iowa State University, IA = 168 feet
2. Millstadt “Tin Man” Water Tower (1931): Millstadt, IL = 164 feet
3. Olde Town Arvada “Tin Man” Water Tower (1910): Arvada, CO = 152 feet
4. Roanoke “Tin Man” Water Tower (1936): Roanoke, TX ~ 150 feet
5-6. Manassas “Tin Man” Water Tower (1914): Manassas, Virginia and Riverhead “Tin Man” Water Tower (1968): Riverhead, NY = 147 feet
7. Paramount Studios “Tin Man” Water Tower: Los Angeles, CA = 145 feet
8. Jackson Street “Tin Man” Water Tower (1920): Elk River, MN = 137 feet
9. West “Tin Man” Water Tower (1928): Orion, IL = 136.5 feet
10. Warner Bros. “Tin Man” Water Tower (1927): Burbank, CA = 133 feet
11. Round Rock “Tin Man” Water Tower (1935): Round Rock, TX = 130 feet
12. University Park “Tin Man” Water Tower (ca 1930): Stockton, CA = 129 feet
13. Corning “Tin Man” Water Tower (1932): Corning, California = 128 feet
14. University Heights “Tin Man” Water Tower (1898): San Diego, California = 127.5 feet
15. Osseo “Tin Man” Water Tower (1915): Osseo, MN = 127.25 feet
16. Gilbert “Tin Man” Water Tower (1925): Gilbert, Arizona = 126 feet
17-19. Yelm “Tin Man” Water Tower (1946): Yelm, WA; Cuthbert “Tin Man” Water Tower (1895): Cuthbert, GA; and Bunnell “Tin Man” Water Tower (1927): Bunnell, FL = 125 feet
20. Oshkosh “Tin Man” Water Tower (1920): Oshkosh, NE = 120 feet
21-22. Red “Tin Man” Water Tower at the Factory (1930): Franklin, TN and Placentia “Tin Man” Water Tank (1935): Placentia, CA = 110 feet
23-25. Oregon “Tin Man” Water Tower (1921): Oregon, WI and Bandera “Tin Man” Water Tower (1941): Bandera, TX; and Belen “Tin Man” Water Tower (1928): Belen, NM = 100 feet
26. Grand Mound “Tin Man” Water Tower (1915): Grand Mound, IA = 80 feet
27. BHS Driller Country “Tin Man” Water Tower (1933): Bakersfield, CA = 60 feet
Beloved “Driller Country Water Tower preserved at Kern Pioneer Village – Source: bakersfield.com_______
More information needed (partial list):
- Falkville “Tin Man” Water Tower (1936): Falkville, AL
- Beardon “Tin Man” Water Tower: Bearden, AR
- Cotter “Tin Man” Water Tower (1935): Cotter, AR
- Cotton Plant “Tin Man” Water Tower (1935): Cotton Plant, AR
- De Valls Bluff “Tin Man” Water Tower (1936): De Valls Bluff, AR
- Green Forest “Tin Man” Water Tower (1937): Green Forest, AR
- Hampton “Tin Man” Water Tower (1937): Hampton AR
- Hartford “Tin Man” Water Tower (1936): Hartford, AR
- Hughes “Tin Man” Water Tower (1936): Hughes, AR
- Keiser “Tin Man” Water Tower (1936): Keiser, AR
- Lockesburg “Tin Man” Water Tower (1936): Lockesburg, AR
- Mineral Springs “Tin Man” Water Tower (1936): Mineral Springs, AR
- Rison “Tin Man” Water Tower: Rison, AR
- Tuckerman “Tin Man” Water Tower (1935): Tuckerman, AR
- Tyronza “Tin Man” Water Tower (1935): Tyronza, AR
- Ash Fork Water Tower: Ash Fork, AZ
- Kingman “Tin Man” Water Tower: Kingman, AZ
- RV Resort “Tin Man” Water Tower: AZ
- Loma Citas “TinMan” Water Tower: Coronado, CA
- Galt “Tin Man” Water Tower (1936): Galt, CA
- Hunt’s Cannery “Tin Man” Water Tower: Hayward, CA
- Ramah “Tin Man” Water Tower: Ramah, CO
- Eatonville “Tin Man” Water Tower (1887): Eatonville, FL
- Lake Helen “Tin Man” Water Tower: Lake Helen, FL
- Florida Natural “Tin Man” Water Tower: Lake Wales, FL
- Dexter “Tin Man” Water Tower: Dexter, IA
- Red Oak “Tin Man” Water Tower: Red Oak, IA
- Post Falls “Tin Man” Water Tower: Post Falls, ID
- Garrett “Tin Man” Water Tower: Garrett, IN
- Princeton “Tin Man” Water Tower: Princeton, IN
- South Whitley “Tin Man” Water Tower: South Whitley, IN
- Goodland “Tin Man” Water Tower: Goodland, KS
- Hot & Cold “Tin Man” Water Towers: Pratt, KS
- Midway “Tin Man” Water Tower (1940s): Midway, KY
- Smithland “Tin Man” Water Tower: Smithland, KY
- Baldwin “Tin Man” Water Tower: Baldwin, ME
- Brownsdale “Tin Man” Water Tower: Brownsdale, MN
- Deerwood “Tin Man” Water Tower (1914): Deerwood, MN
- Easton “Tin Man” Water Tower (1911): Easton, MN
- Fairfax “Tin Man” Water Tower: Fairfax, MN
- Freeport “Tin Man” Water Tower (1920s): Freeport, MN
- Madison “Tin Man” Water Tower (1946): Madison, MS
- Cannery District “Tin Man” Water Tower: Bozeman, MT
- North Carolina Finishing Co. Twin “Tin Man” Water Towers: East Spencer, NC
- Glencoe Mill “Tin Man” Water Tower #1 (1905): Glencoe, NC
- Glencoe Mill “Tin Man” Water Tower #2: Glencoe, NC
- SPCC “Tin Man” Water Tower: Wadesboro, NC
- Minto “Tin Man” Water Tower: Minto, ND
- Dawson “Tin Man” Water Tower: Dawson, NE
- Ford Assembly Plant Water Tower: Omaha, NE
- Superior “Tin Man” Water Tower: Superior, NE
- New Mexico Timber Co. “Tin Man” Water Tower: Bernalillo, NM
- “Tin Man” Water Tower: Los Lunas, NM
- Waterford “Tin Man” Water Tower: Waterford, NY
- Wilson NFL “Tin Man”Water Tower: Ada, OH
- Chilo “Tin Man” Water Tower: Chilo, OH
- Jeffersonville “Tin Man” Water Tower: Jeffersonville, OH
- Laura “Tin Man” Water Tower: Laura, OH
- Smithfield “Tin Man” Water Tower: Smithfield, OH
- Randlett Park “Tin Man” Water Tower (1920s): Anadarko, OK
- Boise City “Tin Man” Water Tower: Boise City, OK
- Manchester “Tin Man” Water Tower: Manchester, OK
- Vian “Tin Man” Water Tower: Vian, OK
- Cliff “Tin Man” Water Tower
- Menlo “Tin Man” Water Tower
- Crook “Tin Man” Water Tower
- Ovid “Tin Man” Water Tower:
- Ainsworth “Tin Man” Water Tower
- Pilot Point “Tin Man” Water Tower
- Ridgeway “Tin Man” Water Tower (1923): Ridgeway, SC
- Downtown “Tin Man” Water Tower: Ripley, TN
- Anton “Tin Man” Water Tower: Anton, TX
- Penn Field “Tin Man” Water Tower (1918): Austin (south), TX
- Big Wells Bulldogs “Tin Man” Water Tower: Big Wells, TX
- Bremond “Tin Man” Water Tower: Bremond, TX
- Cotulla “Tin Man” Water Tower: Cotula, TX
- Crawford Pirates “Tin Man” Water Tower: Crawford, TX
- Deport “Tin Man” Water Tower: Deport, TX
- Elkhart “Tin Man” Water Tower: Elkhart, TX
- Frisco “Tin Man” Water Tower: Frisco, TX
- Gunter “Tin Man” Water Tower: Gunter, TX
- Higgins “Tin Man’ Water Tower: Higgins, TX
- Imperial Water Tower: Imperial, TX
- Keller “Tin Man” Water Tower: Keller, TX
- Kosse “Tin Man” Water Tower: Kosse, TX
- Water Tower #4 “Tin Man”: Kyle, TX
- Linden “Tin Man” Water Tower (1936), TX
- Little Elm “Tin Man” Water Tower, TX
- Matador “Tin Man” Water Tower: Matador, TX
- Pflugerville “Tin Man” Water Tower: Pflugerville, TX
- Rowlett “Tin Man” Water Tower: Rowlett, TX
- Lone Star Brewery “Tin Man” Water Tower: San Antonio, TX
- Smithville “Tin Man” Water Tower: Smithville, TX
- Brodhead “Tin Man” Water Tower (1921): Brodhead, WI
- Main Street “Tin Man” Water Tower (1928): Waunakee, WI
***A list of recently lost “Tin Man” water towers and the year they were torn down is provided after the sources.***
SOURCES:
- https://www.republictimes.net/millstadts-tin-man-shines-again/
- https://www.waymarking.com/waymarks/WM16NR6_Tin_Man_Water_Tower_Crawford_TX
- https://flaglercountyhistoricalsociety.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Bunnell-Water-Tower-1.pdf
- https://www.stlpr.org/arts/2016-01-22/saving-the-tin-man-preservationists-hope-to-give-millstadt-water-tower-a-new-coat-of-paint
- https://www.hmdb.org/m.asp?m=232896
- https://www.pinterest.com/pin/water-tower-in-smithville-texas-is-also-known-as-the-tin-man–502503270896179307/
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mineral_Springs_Waterworks
- https://web.archive.org/web/20160306004345/http://gis.hpa.state.il.us/pdfs/223182.pdf
- pinterest.com
- flickr.com
- gemini.google.ai
- perplexity.ai
- https://dunaway.com/project/the-lawn-at-lake-front/
- https://www.hmdb.org/m.asp?m=237365
- https://www.news-bulletin.com/news/belen-water-tower-designated-as-historic-landmark/article_fbf3423e-a703-58e0-b8a3-69a8daa78cb3.html
- https://savingplaces.org/stories/return-of-the-tin-man-in-oregon-wisconsin
- https://midwayky.blogspot.com/2013/04/council-moves-to-put-big-water-tower.html
- https://www.pinterest.com/pin/the-red-tin-man-water-tower-at-the-factory–290834088449137581/
- https://thinkerphoto.com/2023/08/11/1350/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oRpwBpSrEnw
- https://www.hmdb.org/m.asp?m=160713
- https://www.hmdb.org/m.asp?m=244428
- https://www.hmdb.org/m.asp?m=166916
- https://www.hmdb.org/m.asp?m=238075
- https://web.archive.org/web/20180223110923/http://www.mnhs.org/shpo/nrhp/docs_pdfs/0121_osseowatertower.pdf
- https://www.waunakeeutilities.com/history
- https://www.waymarking.com/waymarks/wm16HW3_Tin_Man_Water_Tower_Kosse_TX
- https://www.arkansasheritage.com/docs/default-source/national-registry/SV0100-pdf
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:Water_towers_on_the_National_Register_of_Historic_Places_by_state
- https://www.sandiegoreader.com/news/1981/sep/17/feature-water-towers/
- https://www.flickr.com/photos/porchdog/2713301649
- https://www.pinterest.com/pin/217932069452918155/
- https://www.waymarking.com/waymarks/wm158QK_Tin_Man_Water_Tower_Matador_TX
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tyronza_Water_Tower
- https://www.newhistory.com/eastonwatertower
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tuckerman_Water_Tower
- https://dunaway.com/project/the-lawn-at-lake-front/
- https://www.waymarking.com/waymarks/wmD3G1_Randlett_Water_Tower_Anadarko_OK
- https://history.nebraska.gov/seven-new-additions-to-the-national-register-of-historic-places/
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grand_Mound_Town_Hall_and_Waterworks_Historic_District
- https://www.hmdb.org/m.asp?m=72322
- https://www.hmdb.org/m.asp?m=196618
- https://www.bakersfield.com/entertainment/power-to-the-tower-museum-needs-funds-for-bhs-landmark/article_70670b62-e350-5213-8cf9-63b1756e5113.html
- https://www.dreamstime.com/historic-brodhead-wisconsin-water-tower-looking-up-built-des-moines-pittsburgh-steel-company-image155691960
- https://pbase.com/xradiotx/water_towers_of_texas&page=all
- https://www.hmdb.org/m.asp?m=262180
- http://www.texasescapes.com/TexasPanhandleTowns/Higgins-Texas.htm
- https://thinkerphoto.com/2024/06/05/the-south-austin-tin-man/
- https://thinkerphoto.com/2024/06/06/the-lone-star-tin-man/
- https://www.blythewoodonline.com/2023/09/saluting-100-years-of-the-tin-man/
- https://web.archive.org/web/20140201220450/http://www.arkansaspreservation.com/historic-properties/_search_nomination_popup.aspx?id=2412
- https://archive.ph/20130117051504/http://www.arkansaspreservation.com/historic-properties/_search_nomination_popup.aspx?id=2368
- https://archive.ph/20130117064422/http://www.arkansaspreservation.com/historic-properties/_search_nomination_popup.aspx?id=2272
- https://www.hmdb.org/m.asp?m=221236
- https://www.arkansasheritage.com/docs/default-source/national-registry/SB0891-pdf
- https://www.arkansasheritage.com/docs/default-source/national-registry/SF0064-pdf
- https://web.archive.org/web/20141213012948/http://www.arkansaspreservation.com/%21userfiles/MS0310.nr.pdf
- https://www.arkansasheritage.com/docs/default-source/national-registry/CR2086-pdf
Those “Tin Man” water towers sadly lost to time, neglect, or shortsightedness:
Alamo Heights, TX (2013) – an image is provided above in the main blogpost.
Aledo, TX (2009)
Brookings, SD (2019)
Brookport, IL (2015)
Cokato MN (2006)
Dorchester, NE (2013)
Gaylord, MN (2016)
Grand Forks, ND (2009)
Groveport, OH (2015)
Independence, MO (2025)
Mabais Plantation, AL (2024)
Martinsville, IL (2023)
UC Merced, CA (2021)
Shiloh, WA (2024)
Stamford, TX (2024)
Texas A & M University “Tin Man” Water Tower (1975)
SOURCES:
- https://www.kens5.com/article/news/local/alamo-heights-iconic-tin-man-water-tower-meets-its-doom/273-306413716
- https://www.columbusmessenger.com/old-groveport-water-tower-taken-down.html
- https://maguirewater.com/tin-man-demolished-after-over-100-years-of-service/
- https://martinsvilleil.com/2023/07/02/tin-man/
- https://dorchestertimes.blogspot.com/2013/09/looking-back-dorchesters-old-water-tower.html
- https://www.delanoheraldjournal.com/articles/archives/cokato-woman-writes-song-about-water-tower-dismantling/
- https://spirit.txamfoundation.com/Winter-2025/Its-How-You-Know-Aggieland-Is-Within-Sight.aspx#:~:text=In%201975%2C%20a%20new%20186,and%20befitting%20of%20Texas%20A&M.
- https://www.wpsdlocal6.com/news/demolition-of-brookport-s-tin-man-set-for-monday/article_69133a30-24df-50f0-8e8c-373dc842c6cc.html
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NjxlLweRMZk
- https://www.aledotimesrecord.com/story/news/2009/10/01/downpour-doesn-t-thwart-downing/63603078007/
- https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/article299382399.html
- https://newscut.mprnews.org/2016/08/ode-to-a-water-tower/index.html
- https://www.bigcountryhomepage.com/video/stamford-demolishes-old-water-tower-in-response-to-20-million-grant/9471952/
- https://www.bigcountryhomepage.com/video/stamford-demolishes-old-water-tower-in-response-to-20-million-grant/9471952/
- https://www.pinterest.com/pin/296745062959131337/
- https://mercedcountytimes.com/once-upon-a-time-in-merced-county-170-years-ago/#:~:text=90%20years%20ago%20(1934)%2C,largest%20elevated%20tank%20in%20California.
#cities #geography #history #landUse #municipal #PittsburghDesMoinesSteel #planning #preservation #TinMan #travel #utilities #water #waterTanks #waterTowers #WizardOfOZ
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Working lists: Canada’s tallest standpipe, spherical, and “Tin Man” style water towers
Three separate working lists are provided below for standpipe, spherical, and “Tin Man” style water towers across our beautiful neighbor to the north, Canada. The lists will be updated periodically as additional information is found. Peace!
St. Mary’s, Ontario Standpipe – Source: flickr.comSTANDPIPE
The year of completion for these standpipe water towers ranges from 1896 to 2007. The most common decades for standpipe construction (from this list) are:
- 1970s = 13
- 1980s = 7
- 1960s = 5
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- Dorset Street Standpipe (1977): Port Hope, ON = 154 feet/47 m – to be replaced in 2027
2-4. Sombra Township Standpipe (1975): Port Lambton, ON and Aylmer Standpipe (1986): Hamilton (Aylmer), ON; and Caraquet Standpipe (1970): Caraquet, NB = 150 feet/45.7 m
5. Waterford Standpipe (1980): Waterford, ON = 142 feet/43.3 m
6. Delhi Standpipe (1978): Delhi, ON = 140 feet/42.7 m
7. North Bay Standpipe (1985): North Bay, ON = 131 feet/40 m
8. Timmons Standpipe (ca 1972): Timmons, ON = 130 feet/39.6 m
9. Ayr Standpipe (1978): Ayr, ON = 129 feet/39.3 m
10. Pointe-Claire Standpipe (1954): Pointe-Claire, QC = 125.5 feet/39.5 m
11. Waterdown Standpipe (1977): Hamilton (Waterdown), ON = 124.5 feet/38 m
12. Bouctouche Standpipe (1982): Bouctouche, NB = 120 feet/36.6 m
13. Region of Waterloo Standpipe (1982): Cambridge, ON = 113 feet/34.4 m
14. St. George Standpipe (1950): St. George, NB = 110 feet/33.5 m
15. Rockland Standpipe (1908): Victoria, BC = 109 feet/33.2 m
16. Grand Falls Standpipe (1998): Grand Falls, NL = 106 feet/32.3 m
17-19. Richmond Hill Standpipe (1980): Richmond Hill, ON; Kerrobet Standpipe (1914): Kerrobet, SK; and Mono Mills Standpipe (1978): Mono Mills, ON = 105 feet/32 m
20. Johnson Tower Standpipe (1963): White Rock, BC = 103 feet
21-23. Alexandria Standpipe #1 (1896): Alexandria, ON; Fenelon Falls Standpipe (1976): Fenelon Falls, ON; and Miramichi Standpipe (1977): Miramichi, NB = 100 feet/ 30.5 m
24. Woodville Standpipe (1972): Woodville, ON = 92 feet/28 m
25-26. Humboldt Standpipe (1915): Humboldt, SK and “Top of Wellington” Standpipe (1946): Clifford, ON = 95 feet/29 m
27-29. Hespeler Standpipe (1972): Cambridge, ON; Dutton Standpipe (1960s): Dutton, ON; and Moncton Standpipe (1980): Moncton, NB = 90 feet/27.5 m
30. Walkerton Standpipe #1: Walkerton, ON = 86 feet/26.2 m
31. Petrolia Standpipe (1896): Pertolia, ON = 85 feet/25.8 m
32. Waterloo Standpipe (1987): Waterloo, ON = 83 feet/25.3 m
33-35. Lacombe Home Water Tower (ca 1920): Calgary, AB; Firestone Standpipe: Calgary, AB; and Kamsack Standpipe (1915): Kamsack, SK = 80 feet/24.4 m
36. Rockwood Standpipe (2007): Rockwood, ON = 72 feet/22 m
37. Buchans Standpipe (2004): Buchans, NL = 71 feet/21.6 m
38. Bolton Standpipe (1937/1973): Bolton, ON = 69 feet/21 m
39. Walkerton Standpipe #2: Walkerton, ON = 66 feet/20.2 m
40-41. Orillia Standpipe (1967): Orillia, ON and Wabush Standpipe (1965): Wabush, NL = 65 feet/19.9 m
42. Elmvale Standpipe (1995): Elmvale, ON = 52 feet/15.9 m
43. Golf Course Standpipe (1976): Didsbury, AB = 51 feet/15.6 m
44. Kensington Standpipe: Kensington, PE = 50 feet/15.2 m
45. Labrador City Standpipe (1965): Labrador City, NL = 48 feet/14.6 m
Source: tourismsaskatchewan.comMore Information needed:
- Alliance, AB
- Andrew, AB
- Bashaw, AB
- Black Diamond, AB
- Bowden, AB
- Chipman, AB (1905)
- Clyde, AB
- Glenwood, AB
- Grand Prairie, AB x 2
- Grimshaw, AB
- High River, AB
- Irricana, AB
- Legal, AB
- Loughheed, AB
- Mundare, AB
- Rocky Mountain House, AB
- Viking, AB
- Waskatenau, AB
- Westlock, AB
- Rossland, BC
- Parksville, BC
- Victoria Standpipe #2
- Climax Standpipe, SK
- Weyburn Standpipe: Woburn, SK
- Signal Hill Arts Centre Standpipe, SK
- Norquay, SK
- Davidson, SK
- Coca-Cola Standpipe: Portage La Prairie, MB
- Maple Bay, BC
- Amhertsville, ON
- St. Mary’s ON (1899)
- Tara, ON
- Midland, ON
- Mt. Forest, ON
- Loyalist Odessa Standpipe (1978): Odessa, ON
- Kincardine, ON
- Warren, ON
- Kingston, ON x 2
- Paisley, ON
- Palmerston #2, ON
- Port Elgin, ON
- Porquois Junction, ON
- Port Perry, ON
- Powassan, ON
- Wingham, ON
- Sudbury/Walden, ON
- Renfrew Standpipe, ON
- Thamesville Standpipe, ON
- Tiverton Standpipe, ON
- Vankleek Hill, ON
- Vemer Standpipe, ON
- Alexandria, ON #2
- Vineland, ON
- Alvinston, ON
- Arkona, ON
- Azilda, ON
- Loyalist Township: Amherstview, ON
- Bancroft, ON
- Birch Island, ON
- Bradford, ON
- Brechin, ON
- Caledonia, ON
- Campbellford, ON
- Cayuga, ON
- Casselman, ON
- Cedar Springs, ON
- New Standpipe: Clifford, ON
- Colborne, ON
- Cookstown, ON
- Chatsworth, ON
- Delaware, ON
- Deseronto, ON
- Dunnville, ON
- Durham, ON
- Espanola, ON
- Finch, ON
- Forest, ON
- Halton Hills Standpipe, ON
- Glencoe, ON
- Guelph, ON x 2 (one in 2015)
- Hagersville, ON
- Hastings, ON
- Havelock, ON
- Hearst Standpipe (1977): Hearst, ON
- Lakefield, ON
- Lancaster, ON
- Lansdowne, ON
- Hockey World Standpipe: London, ON
- Madoc, ON
- Markdale, ON
- Mamora, ON
- Melbourne, ON
- Mitchell, ON
- Norwood, ON
- Orangeville, ON
- Orono, ON
- Ridgeway, ON
- Southampton, ON
- St. Catharines, ON
- Sturgeon Falls, ON
- Stoney Point, ON
- Sunderland, ON
- Walden, ON
- Warren, ON
- Watford, ON
- West Lorne, ON
- Wiarton, ON
- Wyoming, ON
- Borden-Carlton, PE
- Cornwall, PE (1995)
- Stratford, PE
- Bird Cove, NL
- Come by Chance Standpipe, NL
- Conception Bay, NL x 2
- Daniels Harbour Standpipe, NL (1992)
- Grand Bank, NL
- Ramea, NL
- Twillingate, NL
- Antogonish, NS
- Enfield, NS (1970s)
- Falmouth, NS
- Lantz, NS
- Lunenburg, NS
- Fredericton, NB x 2
- Aroostook, NB
- Perth-Andover, NB
- Riverview, NB
- Rothesay, NB
- Saint John Standpipe, NB (2003)
- St. Stephen Standpipe, NB (1988)
- Chicoutimi, QC
- Dalhousie, QC
- Lévis, QC
- Mercier, QC
- Matagami, QC (2004)
- Pierrefonds-Roxboro, QC
- Rock Forest, QC
- Shawville, QC
- Ste-Angèle-de-Laval, QC
- Ste-Anne-de-Bellevue, QC
- Sainte-Foy, QC
- Sainte-Thècle, QC (1951)
- Sainte-Julie, QC
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Source: myselkirk.ca Source: winnipegfreepress.comSPHERICAL
Nearly all of the water towers on this list were built in the 1960s and 1970s.
___
- Mississauga/Peel Region Water Tower (1971): Mississauga, ON = 187 feet/57 m
2-3. Thornbury Environment Water Tower: Thornbury, ON and Steinbach Water Tower (1972): Steinbach, MB = 154 feet/46.9 m
4-5. Guelph Water Tower (early 1970s): Guelph, ON and Stratford Water Tower (1964): Stratford, ON = 150 feet/45.7 m
6. Selkirk Watersphere Tower (1961): Selkirk, MB = 135 feet
7. Elmira Water Tower (1964): Elmira, ON = 126 feet/38.4 m
8. Dundas Water Tower (1969): Hamilton (Dundas), ON = 121 feet/37 m
9. Horton Watersphere Tower (1969): Centralia, ON ~ 114 feet/34.8 m
10. Cambridge Water Tower (1974): Cambridge, ON = 112 feet/34.1 m
11-13. Forest Drive Water Tower (1971): Vaughan, ON; and Woodbridge Water Tower (1971): Woodbridge, ON; and Region of Waterloo Water Tower (1978): Cambridge, ON = 108 feet/33 m
14. SSM Water Tower (1969): Sault Ste. Marie, ON = 103 feet
15. Kamsack Spheroid (1978): Kamsack, SK = 88 feet/26.8 m
16. Airdrie Water Tower (1959): Airdrie, AB = 71.5 feet/21.8 m
More information needed:
- Oxbow Water Tower, SK
- Redwater, AB
- Standoff, AB
- Kelvington, SK
- Lang, SK
- Langenburg, SK
- Sturgis, SK
- Rouleau, SK
- Rose Valley, SK
- Ponteix, SK
- Coutts, AB – “Smiley”
- Killarney Water Tower, MB
- Beausejour, MB
- Ridgetown, ON
- Brantford, ON – status?
- Arthur, ON
- Peterborough, ON
- South Huron Water Tower: Exeter, ON
- Wasaga Beach, ON
- Georgian Mall Water Tower: Barrie ON
- Exeter, ON
- Gananoque 1000 Islands, ON
- Ingersoll, ON
- Hiram Walker Water Tower: Lakeshore, ON
- Ridgetown, ON
- St. Thomas, ON
- Wheatley, ON
- Hawkes Bay, NL
- Hubbards, NS
- Port Hawesbury, NS
- Drummondville, QC
- Rock Forest, QC
- Ste-Catherine, QC
- St-Jean-sur-Richelieu, QC
- Foam Lake, SK
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Source: pipestoneflyer.caTIN MAN
- St. Boniface Water Tower: Winnipeg, MB (1936) = 171 feet/52.1 m
2-3. Wetaskiwin Water Tower (1907): Wetaskiwin, AB and Gleichen Water Tower (1911): Gleichen, AB = 150 feet/45.7 m
4. Winnipeg Beach Water Tower (1928),: Winnipeg Beach, MB (1928) = 131 feet
5. Union Stock Yards Water Tower (1913): Winnipeg, MB = 80 feet/24.4 m
More information needed:
- Claresholm,, AB (1910)
- Bonnyville, AB
- Innisfall, AB
- Lethbridge, AB
- Kitscoty, AB
- Riverhead, AB
- Carmangay, AB
- Kindersley, SK
- Grand Beach, MB
- Morden, MB
- Manitou, MB
- Carman, MB
- Boissevain, MB x 2
- Brandon, MB
- Selkirk, MB
- Stoney Mountain, MB
- Tilsonburg, ON
- Tottenham, ON
- Arthur, ON (1932)
- Delhi, ON
- GSW Water Tower: Fergus, ON
- Gravenhurst, ON
- Hastings, ON
- Markdale, ON
- Mississauga, ON
- Simcoe, ON (1929)
- Sturgeon Falls, ON
- Hillsborough, NB (1931)
- Bedford, QC
- Jonquière, QC
- Montreal, QC x 3
- Schenley Water Tower: Salaberry-de-Valleyfield, QC
- Ste-Anne-de-Bellevue, QC
- St-Félicien,QC
- Sullivan, QC
- Fiske, SK
- Gravelbourg, SK
- Yorkton, SK (1930)
- Waterton, AB
- Saanich, BC
_____
SOURCES:
- https://www.waymarking.com/waymarks/WMZB0C_Lacombe_Home_Water_Tower_Calgary_AB
- https://www.waymarking.com/waymarks/WMCJ3B_Firestone_Tower_Calgary_Alberta_Canada
- http://www.eureka4you.com/watertowers/index.htm
- https://airdrielife.com/citylife/heritage-the-airdrie-water-tower/
- https://hubpages.com/travel/Visiting-the-Lethbridge-Water-Tower-Lethbridge-Alberta-fine-cuisine-and-excellen-views-of-the-Rockies-also
- https://hubpages.com/travel/Visiting-Claresholm-Alberta-Skyline-and-Historical-Landmarks
- https://www.flickr.com/photos/cmhpictures/19065037599
- https://www.waymarking.com/waymarks/WM16P33_Gleichen_Water_Tower_Gleichen_AB
- https://www.flickr.com/photos/21953562@N07/20120412462
- https://www.tourismsaskatchewan.com/listings/227/humboldt-historic-water-tower-tour
- http://www.eureka4you.com/wtower-sk-k/Kamsack1.htm
- https://live.staticflickr.com/324/19507436323_2fbf93baf4.jpg
- http://www.mhs.mb.ca/docs/sites/selkirkwatertower.shtml
- http://www.mhs.mb.ca/docs/sites/steinbachwatertower.shtml
- https://www.ctvnews.ca/winnipeg/article/how-water-towers-have-transformed-into-manitoba-skyline-icons/
- http://wikimapia.org/26342602/Winnipeg-Beach-Water-Tower
- https://bwtas.blogspot.com/2011/09/tower-hunting-in-british-columbia.html
- http://www.eureka4you.com/wtower-bc-w/WhiteRock.htm
- https://www.flickr.com/photos/68678468@N06/7152529331/
- http://eureka4you.com/wtower-on-w/Woodbridge.htm
- http://www.eureka4you.com/wtower-on-c/Cambridge4.htm
- http://www.eureka4you.com/wtower-on-m/Midland1.htm
- http://www.eureka4you.com/wtower-on-t/Thornbury.htm
- https://www.watercanada.net/work-to-start-at-odessa-ontario-water-tower/
- http://www.eureka4you.com/wtower-on-w/Waterdown.htm
- http://www.eureka4you.com/wtower-on-p/PortHope.htm
- http://www.eureka4you.com/wtower-on-p/PortLambton.htm
- http://www.eureka4you.com/wtower-on-t/Timmins.htm
- http://www.eureka4you.com/wtower-on-a/Alexandria1.htm
- http://www.eureka4you.com/wtower-on-a/Aylmer.htm
- http://www.eureka4you.com/wtower-on-a/Ayr.htm
- http://www.eureka4you.com/wtower-on-b/Bolton1.htm
- http://www.eureka4you.com/wtower-on-c/Cambridge1.htm
- http://www.eureka4you.com/wtower-on-c/Centralia1.htm
- http://www.eureka4you.com/wtower-on-c/Clifford1.htm
- http://www.eureka4you.com/wtower-on-d/Delhi1.htm
- http://www.eureka4you.com/wtower-on-d/Dundas.htm
- http://www.eureka4you.com/wtower-on-d/Dutton.htm
- http://www.eureka4you.com/wtower-on-e/Elmira1.htm
- http://www.eureka4you.com/wtower-on-e/Elmvale.htm
- http://www.eureka4you.com/wtower-on-f/FenelonFalls.htm
- http://www.eureka4you.com/wtower-on-g/Guelph1.htm
- http://www.eureka4you.com/wtower-on-h/Hearst.htm
- http://www.eureka4you.com/wtower-on-l/Lucknow.htm
- http://www.eureka4you.com/wtower-on-m/Mississauga1.htm
- http://www.eureka4you.com/wtower-on-m/MonoMills.htm
- http://www.eureka4you.com/wtower-on-n/NorthBay.htm
- http://www.eureka4you.com/wtower-on-o/Orillia1.htm
- http://www.eureka4you.com/wtower-on-r/RichmondHill.htm
- http://www.eureka4you.com/wtower-on-r/Rockwood.htm
- http://www.eureka4you.com/wtower-on-s/Stratford1.htm
- http://www.eureka4you.com/wtower-on-w/Walkerton.htm
- http://www.eureka4you.com/wtower-on-w/Waterford.htm
- http://www.eureka4you.com/wtower-on-w/Waterloo.htm
- http://www.eureka4you.com/wtower-on-w/Woodbridge.htm
- http://www.eureka4you.com/wtower-on-w/Woodville.htm
- http://www.eureka4you.com/wtower-pe-k/Kensington.htm
- http://www.eureka4you.com/wtower-nl-b/Buchans.htm
- http://www.eureka4you.com/wtower-nl-g/GrandFalls.htm
- http://www.eureka4you.com/wtower-nl-l/LabradorCity.htm
- http://www.eureka4you.com/wtower-nl-w/Wabush.htm
- http://www.eureka4you.com/wtower-nb-b/Bouctouche.htm
- http://www.eureka4you.com/wtower-nb-c/Caraquet.htm
- http://www.eureka4you.com/wtower-nb-m/Moncton.htm
- http://www.eureka4you.com/wtower-nb-m/Miramichi.htm
- http://www.eureka4you.com/wtower-nb-s/StGeorge.htm
- http://www.eureka4you.com/wtower-qc-p/PointeClaire.htm
- http://www.eureka4you.com/wtower-mb-w/Winnipeg1.htm
- http://www.eureka4you.com/wtower-sk-h/Humboldt.htm
- http://www.eureka4you.com/wtower-sk-k/Kamsack1.htm
- http://www.eureka4you.com/wtower-ab-d/Didsbury.htm
- http://www.eureka4you.com/wtower-ab-w/Wetaskiwin1.htm
- http://www.eureka4you.com/wtower-bc-v/Victoria.htm
- https://www.myporthope.ca/standpipe-replacement
- https://visitpetrolia.ca/listing/petrolia-standpipe-water-tower/
- https://westenddumplings.blogspot.com/2020/05/a-history-of-selkirks-water-tower.html
- https://www.flickr.com/photos/cmhpictures/19958502035/
#1 #2 #Canada #cities #geography #history #planning #spherical #standpipes #stats #TinMan #tourism #towers #towns #travel #utilities #water #waterTowers
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Standing tall: Celebrating the adaptive reuse of our water towers
All too often across the United States, when a building or structure becomes old, despite its history and/or iconic appearance, it is till torn down when its ages beyond its intended lifespan or deemed usefulness. This applies to both structures in the public and private realm and far too frequently is due to expediency or just plain dollars and cents.
Source: letstalkscience.caOne type of structure that too often bites the dust, instead being preserved, are water towers. Often, the single most visible amenity in the community due to their height (and design), water towers provide a critical service, particularly for supplying drinking water, maintaining water pressure, and for fire-fighting purposes.
Through the years, the trend has been to increase the storage capacity and/or height of individual water towers and their numbers as places grow in population. This has left many aging water towers of various shapes and sizes left behind as a charming relic of a former era or possibly fulfilling a minor role related to its original purposes. The most unfortunate situation arises when older water towers are simply felled to the ground like a mighty tree or are being carved up into pieces and sold for scrap.
Beautiful old “Tin Man” style water tower in Groveport, Ohio being decapitated in 2015 – Source: columbusmessenger.com A felled water tower awaits its fate next to its replacement in Sweetwater, Texas – Source: ktxs.comFortunately, there are a number of places around the country who have discovered unique and re-useful purposes for their aging water towers. This post is dedicated to celebrating and championing the success of those often grassroots efforts by these communities and local citizenry in protecting these wonderful landmarks.
Source: facebook.com/cannerydistrictHere are examples of possible adaptive reuses for water towers (or tanks) identified to date:
- Convert the tower into a piece of art (static or interactive)
- Community gathering place
- Community branding/focal point
- Observation tower
- Historic site or landmark
- Residential dwelling(s) – more common in Europe
- Library
- Elevated location for wireless and communications antenna – this author’s least favorite reuse option
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WATER TOWER INTO A WORK OF ART – MULTIPLE EXAMPLES
Many of us take functional items like water towers for granted. Just another piece of infrastructure we pass by on a regular basis. Despite the unique architectural attributes and flair associated with each generation of water towers, seeing them as a work of art may be a stretch for some. But, there is beauty in functionality. Andy Warhol was famous for making art out of the mundane…the common…the functional. So why not a water tower? or even a shorter water tank?
Well, Las Cruces, New Mexico; Brooklyn, New York, and Yelm, Washington all present fine examples of turning water towers into an art form. For Las Cruces, it’s water tanks have become iconic murals. In Brooklyn, a stained-glass rooftop masterpiece. While in Yelm, Washington…an evolving light show.
Beautiful water tank mural in Las Cruces, New Mexico – Source: lcnews-sun.com
Another mural water tank in Las Cruxes, New Mexico – Source: lascrucesbulletin.com“The 32-foot tall water tanks could easily be eyesores that disrupt otherwise panoramic views of the southern New Mexico town. But in Las Cruces, local artists have turned the curved canvasses into works of art. Using a color palette inspired by Mother Nature to share the rich history of the area, the water tank murals share the stories of the Native Americans who originated in the area and the settlers who followed.”
Source: everdaywanderer.com
As seen in Las Cruces, water towers (or tanks) can become a living embodiment of the community’s combined personality–reflecting the history, pride, culture, and overall sense of the specific place they exist. It may not be hung on a wall in an art museum, but an iconic water tower (or tank) can be the perfect canvas from which to work, while definitely making its presence known and standing out from the crowd much like a fine work of art.
Stained-glass water tower in the Dumbo Neighborhood of Brooklyn – Photo source: reddit.comOne of the most beautiful water towers in the nation isn’t even a real water tower, but a rooftop work of art on a building in the Dumbo Neighborhood of Brooklyn, New York. The artist who created this magnificent stain-glassed work certainly found the simple water tower to indeed be a work of art!
And when a water tower is paired with active or static lighting, their personality really does begin to shine. Yelm, Washington has successful done this with its historic “Tin Man” styled water tower.
Yelm’s historic water tower lights up the night with the local high school’s team colors – Source: yelmonline.com“Through two new projects funded by the Washington State Legislature, the City of Yelm is simultaneously preserving the past while looking to the future. The iconic 125-foot water tower that has loomed over the town since the 1940s is being converted into an art piece, while a new building, to be constructed almost directly under the tower will house a satellite branch of South Puget Sound Community College and a business incubator space.”
Source: thurstontalk.com
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WATER TOWER TO A GATHERING PLACE – GILBERT, ARIZONA
While certainly not the only example, Gilbert, Arizona has gone above and beyond in making its historic “Tin Man” style water tower into a gathering place within the city. Similar to being a branding/focal point of the community as discussed below, an historic/iconic water tower gives instant credibility to a third place with its size and panache often being the hallmark of the site. Just refer to the earlier photo of the water tower in Bozeman, Montana’s Cannery District earlier in this post for a perfect example.
Source: discovergilbert.comhttps://www.instagram.com/gilbertyourtown/reel/Cz4p-UiPoZh/
Furthermore, at last two cities hold annual Water Tower Festivals – Pipestone, Minnesota and Hernando, Mississippi. In 2025, Pipestone will be holding its 36th annual event and in Hernando this year will be the 51st festival.
Source: hernandoms.org_______
WATER TOWER FOR BRANDING/FOCAL POINT – MULTIPLE EXAMPLES
Utilizing a water tower for branding your community is pretty much a no-brainer use of an existing water tower and reuse of an historic/iconic one. Often, the historic/iconic water towers are located close to downtown, in historic districts, or is located in an activity-centered location the community would like to promote (see the gathering place examples above). This makes reuse of the historic/iconic water a win-win situation, as it can be both a giant elevated promotional sign and also a focal point for the attraction(s). Two excellent examples are provided below from Santa Ana, California and Dallas, Texas.
In the Dallas case, as with some others around the country, the wording added to the water tower can help promote a cause or event that is important to the community.
Many more examples of such reuse efforts can be found from across the country.
Santa Ana, California brands itself as “Downtown Orange County on its iconic water tower – Source: instagram.com/cityofsantaana “Creating Harmony” themed water tower in Dallas’ Deep Vellum neighborhood – Source: obeygiant.com_______
WATER TOWER TO AN OBSERVATION TOWER – MULTIPLE EXAMPLES
Converting an existing water tower can be an option for communities to preserve iconic structures. In some cases, such as the Giant City State Park and Peoria Heights Water Towers, both in Illinois, the observation infrastructure were built into the structure from the start. The Peoria Heights tower even has a quaint built-in ticket booth at the base of the tower.
Peoria Height Water/Observation Tower – Photo by author: 2021Ticket booth at the base of the Peoria Heights Water Tower – Source: martin-wombacher.squarespace.comIn other cases, the water tower is opened up a few times a year for visitors to see the interior and climb to the top (e.g. Highland Park Water Tower in St. Paul – see photo below).
And then there are cases ware an historic water tower is refurbished/reused as an observation tower, as is taking place in North Park just outside of Pittsburgh. All are excellent ways to adapt an existing structure (when it still contains water for not) for and alternative and useful purpose.
Giant City State Park Water/Observation Tower, Illinois – Source: pinterest.com/brandigivens Highland Park Water/Observation Tower – St. Paul, Minnesota – Source: historictwincities.com North Park Water/Observation Tower – Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – Source: uncoveringpa.com_______
WATER TOWER AS AN HISTORIC SITE – MULTIPLE EXAMPLES
Provided a water tower survives many years of use, care, and potential neglect without being removed or felled in favor of a newer or larger structure, it can become eligible for inclusion on the National Register of Historic Places, as well as local and state historic lists. As a largely ceremonial designation, this honor does not necessarily provide water towers with guaranteed protection from being replaced or torn down.
Meanwhile, there are many historic/iconic water towers that have been and are protected because of their architectural significance or importance to local/regional/state or national history. Here are just a few of them in the United States.
- Chicago Water Tower (1869) – this handsome Gothic Revival architectural water standpipe survived the Great Chicago Fire of 1871.
- Fall River Waterworks Standpipe Water Tower (ca 1870s), Massachusetts
- Fremont, Elkhorn and Missouri Valley Railroad Water Tower: Lusk, Wyoming (1919)
- Louisville Water Tower (1860) – the world’s oldest ornamental water tower.
- Remington Water Tower (1897), Indiana
WATER TOWER TO A RESIDENTIAL DWELLING – SEAL (SUNSET) BEACH, CALIFORNIA
The option of converting an older water tower to a residential dwelling (or dwellings) would be considered unique and very site-specific based on a variety of factors from condition of the water tower, to its location to local zoning/building codes, to community acceptanc and other factors. Obviously, a water tower house is not for everyone. But, in case of the Seal (Sunset) Beach, California home shown below, not only is is an historic attraction that offers tours, but the dwelling can be rented.
Source: sunsetbeachwatertower.com_______
WATER TOWER TO A LIBRARY – TOA BAJA, PUERTO RICO
Probably the most unique reuse of a water tower anywhere in the nation is the old Levittown Water Tower in Toa Baja, Puerto Rico. Beneath the superstructure of the tower, the city built its library and incorporated aspects of the tower into the building.
Perhaps, more utility departments should consider locating their offices in a similar manner? Another option might be to locate a locate historical society offices below the tower? Despite my criticism of the digital gadgets located on the water tower in Los Lunas, New Mexico (see below), the city’s historical society museum is located directly adjacent and the off-street parking is around the base of the tower.
The point is–thinking outside the box (literally), can help save historic/iconic water towers!
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OLDER WATER TOWER FOR WIRELESS/COMMUNICATIONS ANTENNA – COMMON
The reason I dislike this option is because the communications antenna and equipment detract from the historic/iconic integrity and appearance of the water tower. Though…if the equipment helps to preserve an older water tower that would otherwise be destroyed, then such an option becomes a necessary evil to save the tower.
A water tower in Los Lunas, New Mexico where too much digital gadgetry detracts from the historic integrity the water tower – Photo by author: 2025Preferably, the antenna and equipment are designed in such a manner that the blend in or are camouflaged to limit their intrusion into the original design and appearance of the water tower. Otherwise, the water tower begins to look like an elevated pin cushion.
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As is clearly evident throughout this post, the protection and preservation of historic/iconic water towers can be and has been successfully accomplished across the country. Water towers (and tanks) come in all sorts of shapes and sizes, are constructed of a variety of materials, and are designed in numerous forms and styles. Whether they be a standpipe, a “Tin Man,” a spheroid, or just a low-rise tank; water towers (and tanks) often become symbolic of their community. As such, they play an important role in the history, culture, and dynamics that shape each place. If for no other reason, this is factor alone is why they should be preserved and protected whenever possible.
Source: cdn.shopify.comHopefully, this post will enlighten those across the country who ultimately decide the fate of these iconic structures, while also embolden those who are fighting for the preservation and protection of these landmark water towers in their community. As but one example of establishing and maintaining the context of “place,” historic/iconic water towers are perhaps the most recognizable and identifiable aspect of a community. Let’s work together to make sure their important role is not forgotten with time and is celebrated in a manner that enhances both the water tower and overall sense of “community.” Peace!
Belen, New Mexico formally designated its beautiful “Tin Man” style water tower an Historic Landmark in 2020 – Source: Photo by author: 2025SOURCES:
- https://recyclenation.com/2011/03/water-towers-recycle-houses/
- personal knowledge and observations
- https://sunsetbeachwatertower.com/
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- https://www.instagram.com/cityofsantaana/p/CdEJuhthv3h/
- https://www.discovergilbert.com/soundbites/
- https://www.facebook.com/cannerydistrict
- https://www.thurstontalk.com/2019/07/30/yelm-preserves-the-past-while-looking-to-the-future/
- https://obeygiant.com/cultivate-harmony-water-tower-mural-in-deep-ellum/
- https://yelmonline.com/stories/yelms-historic-water-tower-lights-up-the-night-sky,277804
- https://www.pinterest.com/pin/763712049330521675/
- http://www.historictwincities.com/2019/04/03/highland-park-water-tower/
- https://uncoveringpa.com/north-park-water-tower
- https://martin-wombacher.squarespace.com/blog/2014/10/23/shivering-heightsa-trip-to-tower-park-in-where-else-the-heights
- https://everydaywanderer.com/las-cruces-water-tank-murals
- https://www.lcsun-news.com/story/life/sunlife/2016/09/11/artist-week-tony-pennock/89771150/
- https://www.lascrucesbulletin.com/stories/artist-tony-pennock-water-tank-murals-and-much-more,5868
- https://www.tomfruin.com/watertower.html
- https://www.architecture.org/online-resources/buildings-of-chicago/chicago-water-tower
- https://pttg.com/blogs/historic-water-towers.php
- https://www.indianalandmarks.org/2018/07/historic-water-towers-withstand-the-pressure-of-time/
- https://www.heraldnews.com/story/news/2024/04/24/fall-river-19th-century-water-dept-buildings-open-to-public-for-tours/73420418007/
- https://www.news-bulletin.com/news/belen-water-tower-designated-as-historic-landmark/article_fbf3423e-a703-58e0-b8a3-69a8daa78cb3.html
- https://www.hernandoms.org/watertowerfestival
- https://business.pipestoneminnesota.com/events/details/water-tower-festival-2025-2391
#adaptiveReuse #art #brandding #cities #community #culture #design #dwellings #festivals #fun #historic #historicSites #history #iconic #infrastructure #landUse #landmark #libraries #placemaking #places #planning #preservation #protection #signs #standpipes #tanks #TinMan #tourism #travel #water
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Craggus Trek Trek Phase II Vol 9 offers us banger after banger, covering season 3 episodes 18 to 26 and bringing us to the brink of Star Trek's best ever cliffhanger....
#wilwheaton #startrekthenextgeneration #michaeldorn #transfigurations #themosttoys #ménageàtroi #televisionreview #marinasirtis #captainsholiday #brentspiner #tinman #sarek #patrickstewart #jonathanfrake
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Another beautifully crafted, warm and minimalist slow-mo 303 piece, and one of my all-time favorite collaborations between Donato Dozzy and Tin Man:
Donato Dozzy + Tin Man — Test 3 (2014)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FzZ_xq8JiIUcc/ @r3rt0 :)
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Another beautifully crafted, warm and minimalist slow-mo 303 piece, and one of my all-time favorite collaborations between Donato Dozzy and Tin Man:
Donato Dozzy + Tin Man — Test 3 (2014)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FzZ_xq8JiIUcc/ @r3rt0 :)
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Riker's #solution to save the Enterprise was to #evacuate the air from the main shuttle bay. Guts win!
#Data's solution was to #Forget the number three, and #do what it means. This is the only time besides his own #Death that he doesn't just #go on and on about it.
#StarTrek #TNG #Protip: Alarm later. Act first. Wait for commercial, then debrief and #roll credits.
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Riker's #solution to save the Enterprise was to #evacuate the air from the main shuttle bay. Guts win!
#Data's solution was to #Forget the number three, and #do what it means. This is the only time besides his own #Death that he doesn't just #go on and on about it.
#StarTrek #TNG #Protip: Alarm later. Act first. Wait for commercial, then debrief and #roll credits.
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The Tin Woodman of Oz by L. Frank Baum
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#WizardOfOz #TinMan #LGBTQ #PrideMonth #Books #Retro #Vintage -
The Tin Woodman of Oz by L. Frank Baum
.
#WizardOfOz #TinMan #LGBTQ #PrideMonth #Books #Retro #Vintage -
https://thevillagesun.com/sold-philanthropic-entity-now-officially-owns-the-old-p-s-64
A mural by #SabJonze / Sabrina Jones featuring “Yip” Harburg with the #TinMan and #CowardlyLion is on the Ninth Street side of the old P.S. 64. In addition to “Somewhere Over the Rainbow,” the socially progressive lyricist wrote the Great Depression-era anthem “Brother Can You Spare a Dime?” which was actually penned in 1932. (Photo by Bonnie Rosenstock)
Mural art #SethTobocman
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Riker spreading his toxic behavior to Geordi. #AllStarTrek #StarTrekTNG #TinMan
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Riker spreading his toxic behavior to Geordi. #AllStarTrek #StarTrekTNG #TinMan
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Honestly, I cannot understand why #TheWiz didn't set racist white peoples' brains on fire.
Or, how many white people accepted non-white #ScareCrow, #TinMan, & #CowardlyLion, & #Dorothy.
The fact this movie got made is an historic achievement, itself.
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I think that these 4 episodes featured 4 of the best guest performances in the series, and one right after the other.
Harry Groener #TinMan
Dwight Schultz #HollowPursuits
Saul Rubinek #TheMostToys
Mark Lenard #Sarek
#AllStarTrek #StarTrekTNG -
I think that these 4 episodes featured 4 of the best guest performances in the series, and one right after the other.
Harry Groener #TinMan
Dwight Schultz #HollowPursuits
Saul Rubinek #TheMostToys
Mark Lenard #Sarek
#AllStarTrek #StarTrekTNG -
#Tinman has some power. Tam Elbrum should’ve shown up at the invasion of Betazed and kicked some Dominion ass. #AllStarTrek #StarTrekTNG
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#Tinman has some power. Tam Elbrum should’ve shown up at the invasion of Betazed and kicked some Dominion ass. #AllStarTrek #StarTrekTNG
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Ya ever notice how Starfleet engineers are always ignoring safety regulations with very few consequences. #Tinman #AllStarTrek #StarTrekTNG
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I understand why the episode calls Gomtuu #Tinman since it was only going to be complete if it only had a heart (Tam Elbrun), but why did Starfleet choose that designation? #AllStarTrek #StarTrekTNG
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I understand why the episode calls Gomtuu #Tinman since it was only going to be complete if it only had a heart (Tam Elbrun), but why did Starfleet choose that designation? #AllStarTrek #StarTrekTNG
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Tin Man. Boise City, Oklahoma. June, 2017 #photography #roadside #RoadsideAttractions #roadsideamerica #oklahoma #boisecity #panhandle #tinman #oz #wizardofoz #statue
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Random Old Comic: Adventures In Oz https://www.toyboxcomix.com/2021/06/04/adventures-in-oz/ #xp #Bigfoot #Clippy #CowardlyLion #DorothyGale #Fortnite #Scarecrow #TheWizardofOz #TinMan #Toto
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But Oz never did give nothing to the Tin Man ♪
That he didn't, didn't already have♫ Tin Man ♫ #NowPlaying #NSR America
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zGl4PP9xaaQ 1974
#70sMusic#NFO America is a 🇬🇧/🇺🇸 #rock band formed in #London in 1970 by Dewey Bunnell, Dan Peek & Gerry Beckley, all Americans. The trio met as sons of US Air Force personnel stationed in #London, where they began performing live.
I was living near #USAF Bases in Europe at the same time.
I saw this #TinMan in a shop, along the #EasternShore
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@RJB_Mallacore Not necessarily fully scifi first off for now, that taking thinking, but in the past I 'wanted' a crossover fic or something with the #TinMan Oz mini series + Brazil, since the cities in both had interesting overlap potential for something to be done with.
