Peoria Waterworks facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Peoria Water Works
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 Location in Peoria County, Illinois
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| Location | Lorentz Ave., Peoria, Illinois |
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| Area | 1.5 acres (0.61 ha) |
| Built | 1890 |
| Architect | H.H. Richardson |
| Architectural style | Romanesque Revival |
| NRHP reference No. | 80001403 |
| Added to NRHP | March 18, 1980 |
The Peoria Waterworks is a group of historic buildings located in Peoria, Illinois. Built in 1890, these buildings were super important for bringing clean water to the city. Imagine a time when getting water wasn't as easy as turning on a tap! This complex helped make that happen for Peoria.
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What is the Peoria Waterworks?
The Peoria Waterworks is a set of three main buildings. These are Pumping Station #1, Pumping Station #2, and the Main Well House. Their job was to pump water from wells and send it to homes and businesses in Peoria.
Building Peoria's Water System
Before 1890, the city of Peoria had a water company that was owned by the public. But then, it was sold to two people named John T. Moffat and Henry C. Hodgskins. They decided to build a brand new water system. This new system, which included the Waterworks buildings, started supplying water to Peoria on December 1, 1890.
A Special Building Style
The buildings at the Peoria Waterworks were designed in a style called Romanesque Revival. This style was popular in the late 1800s. It often uses strong, heavy stone or brick, round arches, and big towers. Think of old castles or churches, but made for a modern purpose! The architect, H.H. Richardson, was known for using this style.
Becoming a Historic Landmark
Because of their important history and unique architecture, the three buildings of the Peoria Waterworks were added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places on March 18, 1980. This means they are recognized as special places that are worth protecting for future generations to learn from and enjoy.
