The tower was finished in 1869 and
survived the great Chicago Fire of 1871.
The architect was William W. Boington.
The Water tower is the most famous building in Chicago. The tower was constructed of Joliet limestone and it still stands today. The water tower is at 800 N. Michigan Avenue near the John Hancock Center, the small towers resemble a tiny European 13 century castle more than a water tower! It houses a 40 meter standpipe that equalize the pressure of the water pumped from the pumping station to the east. The standpipe was removed in 1911 whan it was no longer needed. The water tower rises 154 feet above ground level, in 1869 it housed a 138 foot standpipe 3 feet in diameter. After it was built it was supplied with water by a tunnel system which extended 2 miles into the lake. Each of its 40 foot sides has a stately doorway and 2 grand windows. The water tower now stands as a Chicago landmark.