Welcome to the Tuckerman Water Tower, a historical landmark that stands as a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of its builders. Situated at the south end of Front Street in Tuckerman, Arkansas, this water tower was constructed in 1935 during the Great Depression. It was funded by the Public Works Administration (PWA), a cornerstone of Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal programs aimed at revitalizing the American economy through large-scale public works projects.
The Tuckerman Water Tower is a striking example of Depression-era infrastructure, featuring a tall metal structure with four latticed legs. These legs are braced with rods and slope inward, supporting a water tank that is bowl-shaped at the bottom and topped by a conical roof. The tower’s design was not just functional but also an architectural statement of its time, representing the industrial progress and the community’s reliance on a safe water supply.
As the only remaining PWA tower of its type in Jackson County, it was recognized for its historical significance and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2007. This designation helps preserve the tower as a symbol of the era and as a piece of American history.
The town of Tuckerman itself is a small, close-knit community that celebrates its history and culture through events like Hometown Days, hosted annually by Cole Rogers. These celebrations not only honor the town’s past but also support local services like the Tuckerman Volunteer Ambulance Service.
Over the decades, the Tuckerman Water Tower has watched over the town as it evolved, surviving through changes in population and industry. It remains an enduring landmark that connects the present-day residents with their historical roots.
As you pass by or learn about this site remotely, imagine the countless stories and daily life of Tuckerman’s residents through the years, all under the quiet watch of this historic tower.
