Bethlehem Waterworks, Municipal waterworks in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, US
The limestone building contains an 18-foot diameter waterwheel that pumps water from a spring through a system of pipes to supply the city.
Established in 1762, this engineering achievement marks the first pumped municipal water system in America, operating continuously until the 1830s.
The waterworks represents early American industrial innovation, demonstrating the Moravian settlers' advanced technical capabilities in colonial Pennsylvania.
The spring produced 1,200,000 gallons of water daily, distributing it through five cisterns positioned strategically throughout the settlement area.
The mechanical system used only water power from Monocacy Creek to pump water 94 vertical feet upward without any additional energy source.
Location: Pennsylvania
Location: Bethlehem
GPS coordinates: 40.61917,-75.38333
Latest update: March 4, 2025 13:54
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