Pryor Avenue Iron Well facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Pryor Avenue Iron Well |
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| Location | Milwaukee |
| Area | Bay View |
| Built | 1882 |
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The Pryor Avenue Iron Well is a special water well in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. It's in the historic Bay View area. Built in 1882, it got its name because its water has a lot of iron in it. This well uses water that naturally flows up from deep underground, from something called an artesian aquifer. Today, an electric pump helps bring the water up. In 1980, it became a Milwaukee landmark. It's important because it's the last public well left in the city.
Contents
How the Iron Well Was Built
Starting the Project
Work on the well began in October 1882. It was a public project for the Village of Bay View. The goal was to provide clean water for everyone.
Digging Deep
Drilling the well was a slow process. Workers had to dig through very dense glacial drift. This is a type of soil left behind by ancient glaciers. They finally reached a depth of 1500 feet in January. At this depth, the water pressure was strong enough. It could provide a steady supply of water. This water was meant for other smaller wells and fire hydrants.
The Well's Design Over Time
The Original Look
When the well was first finished, it was quite simple. It was just an exposed pipe. Water spigots were attached for people to use. Anyone could come and get water for free.
The Modern Structure
Around the 1920s, the well got a new look. A concrete structure, called a monolith, was added. It stands about five feet tall. Water continuously flows from pipes on both sides. This water goes into drainage basins at ground level. Today, you can often see potted plants and benches around the well. These are provided by the Bay View Garden and Yard Society.
Why the Iron Well Is Important
A Source of Drinking Water
Many people who live nearby still visit the Iron Well. They come to fill up bottles with its drinking water. It's a popular spot for fresh water.
A Safe Alternative
In April 1993, Milwaukee had a problem with its main water supply. This water usually comes from Lake Michigan. During that time, the Iron Well became a very popular alternative. Even though the well and Lake Michigan are close, their water sources are separate. They are divided by different layers of rock and soil deep underground.
Checking Water Quality
Health officials regularly test the well's water. This is to make sure it is safe to drink. In 2014 and 2015, tests found high levels of strontium. Strontium is a natural element. City health officials said it was only a concern for "sensitive populations" if they drank the water for a very long time.
