Chicago Water Tower — Attraction in Chicago

Chicago Water Tower is a historic landmark located on North Michigan Avenue in Chicago, Illinois. Built in 1869, this limestone tower is one of the few surviving structures that survived the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. With its distinctive castle-like appearance, the Chicago Water Tower has become an iconic symbol of resilience and strength in the face of adversity.

Designed by architect William W. Boyington, the Water Tower was originally constructed to house a 135-foot tall standpipe, which provided water pressure for the city's rapidly growing population. However, its purpose expanded beyond that of a mere water storage facility. After the fire ravaged the city, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake, the Water Tower stood tall amidst the ruins, serving as a beacon of hope for the residents of Chicago.

The tower's design is a blend of Gothic Revival and castellated architecture, featuring battlements, turrets, and ornate detailing. Its exterior is adorned with intricate carvings and decorative stone work, showcasing the craftsmanship of the era. The Water Tower's slender profile and elegant proportions make it a true architectural gem.

Today, the Chicago Water Tower serves as a gallery space for the City Gallery in the Historic...

It’s an iconic symbol representing the city’s post-Great Chicago Fire resilience. It is one of the oldest buildings in the history of the town. In fact, it has witnessed its share of disasters over the years.

As the myth has it- the Water Tower wasn't the only structure left standing after the city was ravaged by the Great Fire of 1871 - it is one of Six Structures That Survived the Great Chicago Fire—built-in 1869. As of today, it still stands as the second oldest water tower in America.

The tower contained a pipe that stood roughly around 140 feet high. The intent was to pump water from Lake Michigan so it could be used for multiple purposes. One such use was for the Chicago Fire Department. It intended to pump clean water via the water cribs from the lake. despite the intent to provide the fire department with enough water to put out a fire, it wasn’t enough to contain the Great Fire of Chicago in 1871.

However, there had been stories of the spirits that have haunted the water tower for many years, but that's the case with every old...

The Old Chicago Water Tower, located just north of Michigan Avenue next to the John Hancock Center, was one of the few buildings that survived the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. Today, the Chicago Water Tower has become a Chicago landmark. The Chicago Water Tower was built in 1869. The material used is large limestone. The entire water tower is quite in the style of 13th-century European Gothic architecture. It looks more like a miniature castle than a water tower. Designed by architect William W. Boyington, the water tower is about 47 meters high and the interior is about 42...