North Shore Sanitary District Tower

The North Shore Sanitary District Tower is a stone water tower featuring Art Deco design with geometric patterns and decorative stone trim around windows and doorways. The structure stands approximately 50 feet tall and was built with carefully finished materials that have weathered well over time.

Samuel Arnold Greeley designed this water tower in 1931 as part of the region's infrastructure development. The building reflects a period when engineering structures were equipped with design details rather than appearing purely functional.

This structure demonstrates how water infrastructure received thoughtful architectural treatment in the 1930s rather than being purely utilitarian. Located in Rosewood Park, the tower serves as a visual landmark that visitors naturally notice while moving through the area.

The tower stands in Rosewood Park and is visible from the street but remains in the ownership of a water authority and is not open to the public. It offers a good photo opportunity from outside when walking through the neighborhood.

This structure appears on the album cover of 'Oceania' by The Smashing Pumpkins, connecting everyday water infrastructure with popular music. This unexpected connection has brought additional attention to the building from music fans.

Location: Highland Park

Inception: 1931

Architects: Samuel Arnold Greeley

Architectural style: Art Deco

Operator: North Shore Water Reclamation District

Address: Cary Avenue

Website: https://northshorewrd.org

GPS coordinates: 42.16780,-87.77170

Latest update: December 14, 2025 17:02