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Grand Avenue Water Tower: A Corinthian Landmark

Discover St. Louis's iconic Grand Avenue Water Tower, a historic landmark showcasing stunning 19th-century Corinthian architecture.

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The Grand Avenue Water Tower, located in St. Louis's College Hill neighborhood, is a striking example of 19th-century architecture. Designed by George I. Barnett and completed in 1871, the 154-foot tower resembles a colossal Corinthian column and is the oldest of three water towers in the city.

A brief summary to Grand Avenue St Louis,MO Water Tower

Local tips

  • Explore the surrounding College Hill neighborhood to discover more of St. Louis's rich history and culture.
  • Visit the nearby Bissell Street Water Tower to see another example of historic waterworks architecture in St. Louis.
  • Take photos of the tower at night when it is illuminated by special floodlights.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Grand Center, begin at the intersection of Washington Avenue and Grand Boulevard. Proceed north on Grand Boulevard for approximately 0.5 miles, passing local shops and restaurants. Continue until you reach the intersection with E Grand Boulevard. The Grand Avenue Water Tower will be on your right at the intersection with N 20th Street.

  • Public Transport

    To reach the Grand Avenue Water Tower via public transport, take the MetroBus. Head to the nearest bus stop on Grand Boulevard and board the #70 Grand bus heading north. Ride for about 10-15 minutes and disembark at the 'Grand & E Grand' stop. Walk east on E Grand Boulevard until you reach the intersection with N 20th Street; the water tower will be at that intersection. A single ride on MetroBus costs $1.

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Discover more about Grand Avenue St Louis,MO Water Tower

The Grand Avenue Water Tower, also known as "Old White", stands as a testament to St. Louis's commitment to public infrastructure and architectural beauty. Completed in 1871, the tower was designed by architect George I. Barnett in the style of a giant Corinthian column. The tower's primary function was to conceal a five-foot diameter standpipe that helped regulate the city's water pressure. Constructed of brick, stone, and cast iron, the 154-foot tower is a remarkable sight. It features a base, shaft, and capital, all designed to resemble the classical architectural order. Inside, a spiral staircase once wound around the standpipe, providing access to the top. Decommissioned in 1912, the tower's standpipe and spiral staircase were removed. In the 1920s and 30s, aircraft warning lights were added to the top, and legend has it that Charles Lindbergh used these lights to navigate through the fog. Saved from demolition in the 1930s due to public outcry, the Grand Avenue Water Tower remains a beloved landmark and is considered the tallest free-standing Corinthian column in the world.

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