Chicago - Water Tower and Pumping Station

The 205ft/62m high Water Tower and the Pumping Station across from it were the only buildings in this area to survive the devastating fire of 1871. They were designed by architect W. W. Boyington in 1867 and constructed of Joliet limestone in 1869. The buildings were modeled on a medieval fortress and celebrate castellated Gothic style. After the fire, both buildings became symbols of the City's drive to rebuild and start afresh. The tourist information office and "Here's Chicago", a multi-media show about the city, is located in the preserved facility.