FAIRMOUNT WATER WORKS

In the late eighteenth century, following violent outbreaks of yellow fever, city leaders had to think about a way to ensure a constant supply of uncontaminated drinking water. The answer is here: the Schuylkill River and an ingenious turbine system covered the needs of Philadelphia in running water from 1815 to 1909.

The interpretive center provides an understanding of the operation of the time and is dedicated to raising awareness of the importance of water to avoid waste. The gardens surrounding the shore are also very pleasant and romantic with small Greek Revival colonnades to contemplate the panorama in the shadows before going back to the Philadelphia Museum of Art.