Chicago Avenue Pumping Station

The Chicago Avenue Pumping Station is a building made of yellow Joliet limestone with pointed arches, detailed stone carvings, and a prominent central tower. The structure processes millions of gallons of water daily and remains a functioning part of Chicago's municipal water distribution network today.

Engineer Ellis Chesbrough designed Chicago's water system in 1867 and laid a two-mile tunnel into Lake Michigan to bring clean water to the city. The pumping station became a key part of this infrastructure.

The building and its adjacent water tower shape the streetscape of the Old Chicago Water Tower District, showing how Chicago organized its water supply in the 1800s. Both structures stand prominently in the city today, reflecting a time when such engineering works were displayed with pride.

The building sits in downtown Chicago and is easy to reach on foot from Michigan Avenue. It's worth taking time to view the exterior architecture, especially the stone details and tower from different angles.

The building survived the Great Fire of 1871 because a German immigrant named Frank Trautman covered its walls with water-soaked canvas sails to protect it from flames. This quick action saved one of the few structures that withstood the disaster.

Location: Chicago

Architects: William W. Boyington

Architectural style: Gothic Revival

Capacity: 250

Part of: Old Chicago Water Tower District

GPS coordinates: 41.89720,-87.62390

Latest update: December 7, 2025 19:29