Eighth Avenue South Reservoir, dam in the United States of America
The Eighth Avenue South Reservoir is a large water storage basin with an elliptical shape in Nashville, Tennessee, built from cut limestone. It features high walls rising above ground and walkways around the top, serving as part of the city's water system for over a century.
The basin was completed around 1889 to store large quantities of treated water for Nashville's rapidly growing population. In 1912, part of the southeast wall suddenly collapsed, releasing approximately 25 million gallons and damaging nearby homes, leading to improved inspection and maintenance practices.
The reservoir bears the name of the nearby street and reflects how water management shaped Nashville's growth. It stands as a reminder of the city's commitment to reliable public services and infrastructure development.
The site is not open for public tours but can be viewed from outside to appreciate the historic structure and limestone walls. Visiting during daylight and clear weather provides the best views of the engineering and surrounding landscape.
The limestone walls stand nearly 34 feet high and were built with craftsmanship typical of the 1880s, showcasing impressive engineering skills for the era. The basin could hold approximately 50 million gallons combined, demonstrating the city's ambitious plans for reliable water distribution.
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