Wednesday, August 8, 2007

Water Tower

This is the Historic Water Tower on Michigan Avenue's Magnificent Mile, erected in 1869. It is the city's most cherished landmark, untouched as it was by the Great Chicago Fire of 1871 because it is made entirely of limestone. Today, it is an art gallery curated by the Chicago Public Arts Program.

13 comments:

  1. Oh, yes, it is a real beauty, especially at night (and/or on a rainy day).

    OMG, I just checked the Magnificent Mile link. Is your tulip season in May? I've got to see that in person. Next visit to your delightful city must be during tulip season :).

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  2. That building is magnificent! I love all the detail. Your blog has definately opened my eyes to what a beautiful city you live in!

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  3. Chicago will always have a soft spot in my heart and the water tower is definitely an icon.

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  4. Neat building - I'm wondering how it comes to be called a water tower?

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  5. Very distinctive. No wonder it is so cherished.

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  6. What a nice water tower. Thank you for the shot.

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  7. Thanks for all the generous comments--and yes, anyone who'd like to see Mayor Daley's tulip drive in the spring should definitely come over then!

    Wendy, it is called the water tower because it housed a very tall standpipe which equalized water pressure and kept down the water pulsation in the water mains. (I had to do some research to answer your question. Thanks for asking and giving me a reason to learn even more about my own city...)

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  8. I saw your daily post of the bookstore and noticed the "water tower" photo below it. Still curious to know how it came to be referred to as a water tower, I took a look to see if, by chance, my question was answered. And, I was glad to catch your reply. It's certainly a lovely water tower building. Thanks Blue!

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  9. I went to school so very near there. It's good to see the water tower again.

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  10. Oh At first sight it seems a church. It's a very interesting building

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  11. This is an awesome photo...I love how you framed it....even if you just pointed and shot...it is wonderful!....it was not so hot up in Petosky< Mi....but very brown...I would not light a fire even if I could....glad you had a nice time!

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  12. oh i know this one...have seen it all dressed up before Christmas and loved it :)

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