Welcome to the North Point Water Tower, a remarkable piece of Milwaukee’s rich history. This towering structure was built between 1873 and 1874, during a pivotal moment when the city was establishing its first public waterworks. The Wisconsin Legislature authorized its construction in 1871, and it became a crucial part of Milwaukee’s infrastructure, designed by Charles A. Gombert in a stunning Victorian Gothic style.
The tower was constructed using limestone sourced from nearby Wauwatosa, and it stands 175 feet tall, housing a wrought iron standpipe that is four feet in diameter and 120 feet high. The purpose of this inner pipe was to mitigate surges in water pressure from the pumps at the North Point Pumping Station below the bluff, which drew water from Lake Michigan. This ingenious design also prevented the water from freezing in the harsh Wisconsin winters.
Though originally estimated to cost $8,000, the final construction cost ballooned to over $50,000, reflecting the complexity and scale of the project. Despite the expense, the tower quickly became a vital part of Milwaukee’s development, supplying the city with clean water and supporting its growth into a thriving industrial center.
The North Point Water Tower ceased its operational role in 1963 with the construction of a modern facility. However, its historical significance was recognized when it was designated a Milwaukee Landmark in 1968, a national landmark of the American Water Works Association in 1969, and it was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1973.
Although the interior is not open to the public, the tower remains a beloved landmark. It stands as a testament to the city’s innovative spirit and commitment to progress. As you admire its architecture, imagine the bustling activity of 19th-century Milwaukee growing around this essential piece of infrastructure, and consider the many stories it could tell from its vantage point overlooking Lake Michigan.
