Architecture Behind Allen Hazen Water Tower: A Historical and Structural Analysis

The Allen Hazen Water Tower, located in Des Moines, Iowa, stands as a notable example of early 20th-century architecture and engineering.

Completed in 1931, this impressive structure was designed by the firm Everett & Hazen, showcasing the Neoclassical style that pays tribute to ancient Roman waterworks. The tower, reaching a height of 110 feet and capable of holding 1.7 million gallons of water, has been recognized for its architectural significance and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

One captivating aspect of the tower is its unique design, which features a base surrounded by 15 Tuscan columns that support a circular entablature. This design choice not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the building but also reflects the engineering advancements of its time.

The Allen Hazen Water Tower has remained a symbol of Des Moines’ growth and commitment to modern infrastructure.

As readers explore this article, they will discover more about the structure’s historical context, architectural details, and its enduring legacy in the community.

Understanding the architecture behind the Allen Hazen Water Tower provides insights into both its functional purpose and its artistic significance, making it a fascinating topic for architecture enthusiasts and casual readers alike.

Historical Context

The Allen Hazen Water Tower served as a significant architectural and engineering project in the early 20th century. Its design reflects the influence of classical styles while meeting the practical needs of municipal water supply systems.

The work of Allen Hazen in this area showcases his expertise and commitment to improving public infrastructure.

The Legacy of Allen Hazen

Allen Hazen was a key figure in the fields of hydraulics and water treatment. He played an important role in the development of municipal water systems, which greatly improved public health.

His work on the Hazen-Williams equation advanced the understanding of water flow in pipes.

Hazen’s contributions also included his leadership in various projects, including the Des Moines Water Works. His innovative approaches set standards for future water treatment facilities. His legacy continues to influence engineers focusing on water purification and management.

The tower itself symbolizes his lasting impact on urban infrastructure, reminding modern communities of the importance of reliable water systems.

Des Moines Water Works

Des Moines Water Works (DMWW) is a vital resource for the community, providing safe drinking water to residents. The Allen Hazen Water Tower was built as part of this larger municipal effort.

Completed in 1931, it demonstrated advanced engineering techniques for its time.

The tower functioned as a crucial component of the city’s water supply, holding large volumes of treated water. As a landmark, it reflects the architectural trends of the period, particularly the Neoclassical style.

The tower remains an important part of Des Moines’ cultural heritage and is recognized by organizations such as the National Park Service. Efforts to preserve such structures highlight the significance of historical architecture in urban settings.

Architectural Design

The design of the Allen Hazen Water Tower reflects a blend of historical influences and modern construction techniques. Its design features prominent neoclassical elements and decorative aspects that connect to ancient Roman architecture.

Neoclassical Influence

The Allen Hazen Water Tower exemplifies the Neoclassical style, which draws inspiration from the architecture of Ancient Rome and Greece. This style emphasizes symmetry, grand proportions, and the use of classical elements.

The choice of this architectural style for the water tower serves as a homage to the historical waterworks that once existed in Rome. By using neoclassical design, the tower seeks to convey not only functionality but also aesthetic beauty.

This connection to classical traditions highlights the importance of water infrastructure throughout history, reflecting human ingenuity in blending utility with art.

Incorporation of Tuscan Columns

A striking feature of the tower is its use of Tuscan columns, which are solid and unadorned, yet elegant. The tower’s base is surrounded by a circle of cement Tuscan columns, known for their simple yet robust design. This choice reflects a commitment to strength and durability in construction.

Each column supports an entablature, which adds to the overall architectural height and presence of the structure. The columns create a sense of grandeur, echoing the monumental buildings of ancient Rome while grounding the tower firmly in its modern context.

The design decision to incorporate these columns connects the building to classical architecture, showcasing its timelessness.

Classical Revival Elements

The Allen Hazen Water Tower also incorporates various Classical Revival elements that enrich its design. These elements include decorative features like the entablature and cornice, which provide additional visual interest and structure to the building.

The use of concrete and steel in its construction allowed for more expansive designs compared to traditional stone. This innovative approach signifies a merging of traditional aesthetics with modern materials, demonstrating its importance as an early example of reinforced concrete usage.

The blend of classical features with advancements in construction technology showcases how historical designs can adapt and thrive in contemporary contexts. This tower stands as a testament to the enduring influence of classical architecture on modern builds.

Construction Details

The Allen Hazen Water Tower showcases a blend of durable materials and innovative techniques. This enables it to hold up to 1.7 million gallons of water. The design and construction reflect significant advancements in civil engineering during its time.

Materials and Methodology

The primary materials used in the construction were concrete and steel. The choice of concrete gave the tower remarkable strength and longevity. Its height reaches 110 feet, supported by a robust base of Tuscan columns. Steel reinforcements were integrated into the concrete to enhance structural stability.

The construction involved a methodical approach. Workers first laid a strong foundation to support the weight of the water it would hold. They constructed the base with 15 concrete columns, which support the circular entablature. This design draws inspiration from ancient Roman architecture.

Role of Clinton Mackenzie

Clinton Mackenzie was a key figure in the design and construction of the tower. As a civil engineer, he directed the project, ensuring every detail met structural standards.

Mackenzie’s expertise was vital in overcoming challenges during construction.

He advocated for reinforced concrete techniques that maximized safety and durability. His leadership also focused on accommodating the tower’s specific function: controlling water pressure for the city. Mackenzie’s vision contributed significantly to the project’s success.

Structural Innovations

The Allen Hazen Water Tower features several structural innovations that set it apart from contemporaries. One notable aspect is the large-scale circular metal tank positioned above the columns. This design choice not only holds water but also adds a unique aesthetic element.

The tower’s ability to store 1.7 million gallons helps maintain consistent water pressure in Des Moines. It reflects advancements in engineering that allowed for taller and more efficient water storage facilities. The innovative combination of design and functionality marks the tower as a significant achievement in 20th-century architecture.

Functional Aspects

The Allen Hazen Water Tower served critical functions in water storage, distribution, and treatment. These aspects ensured the efficient delivery of potable water while addressing important hydraulic and purification needs.

Water Storage and Distribution

The tower functions as a vital water storage facility. It holds approximately 1.7 million gallons of water, providing a reliable supply for the community. This capacity aids in maintaining consistent water pressure for distribution throughout Des Moines.

Water is drawn from the tower during peak demand times, ensuring that residents have access to clean water. The design allows for efficient gravity-fed distribution, minimizing the energy required for pumping systems.

Such an arrangement is essential in any water system, as it balances supply with demand seamlessly. This practical approach helps avoid shortages during dry periods.

Hydraulic Considerations

Hydraulic principles play a crucial role in the tower’s design. The structure utilizes gravity to facilitate efficient water flow. This focus on hydraulics reduces the need for additional mechanical systems that can increase costs and energy use.

The prominence of 15 concrete Tuscan columns around the base provides stability, allowing for a secure water storage environment. The tower’s height also contributes to the pressure needed to push water through the distribution system effectively.

This balance of structural design and hydraulic efficiency is critical in maintaining performance and extending the lifespan of the facility.

Water Treatment Processes

While the tower primarily focuses on water storage, it is linked to essential water treatment processes. The water is treated before entering the tower, generally involving filtration and purification methods to ensure safety.

Filtration removes contaminants and impurities, making the water suitable for consumption. This step is crucial, as untreated water poses health risks.

Additionally, the water purification process incorporates techniques that may include chemical treatments and sedimentation. These processes assure that the community receives clean and safe drinking water, meeting health standards essential for public safety.

The integration of these treatment methods ensures that the water tower remains a cornerstone of Des Moines’ water supply system.

Cultural and Technological Impact

The Allen Hazen Water Tower stands as a significant landmark, representing both advancements in technology and the appreciation for traditional design. Its architectural elements provide a strong connection to historical waterworks while serving contemporary needs.

Symbolizing Technology and Traditionalism

The design of the Allen Hazen Water Tower merges innovative construction methods with classic aesthetics. Built in the early 20th century, it used reinforced concrete, which was a modern technique at the time. This material allowed for larger and more durable structures than traditional brick or stone.

The tower’s Neoclassical style pays homage to Ancient Roman architecture, illustrating a blend of technological progress and traditional design philosophy. David Gebhard and Gerald Mansheim recognized this juxtaposition, noting its role in showcasing advancements in water supply and filtration of public water supplies. The circular arrangement of Tuscan columns supports the tower gracefully, reinforcing the connection between form and function.

The Water Tower as a Civic Symbol

The Allen Hazen Water Tower is not just a functional structure; it symbolizes the growth and spirit of Des Moines. Serving as a marker of civic pride, it represents the city’s commitment to providing clean drinking water. Its impressive height of 110 feet showcases the ambition behind public water infrastructure.

The tower has played a critical role in the water supply system, reflecting the importance of modern engineering in supporting urban needs. Over the years, it has become a cultural icon, reminding residents of their shared history and progress. Interest in such structures can be seen in various architectural tours, revealing the lasting impact of engineering on communities.

Restoration and Preservation

The restoration and preservation of the Allen Hazen Water Tower highlight the importance of maintaining historical structures. Efforts have focused on conservation initiatives and recognition by significant heritage programs to ensure its legacy endures.

Conservation Efforts

Conservation efforts for the Allen Hazen Water Tower involve meticulous planning and execution.

In recent years, local organizations and volunteers have worked to maintain the structure. This includes routine inspections to identify wear and potential issues with the concrete and steel materials used in its construction.

The Polk County Historic Preservation Commission plays a crucial role in these efforts. They collaborate with engineers to develop strategies that protect the tower from environmental damage. This can involve applying protective coatings and monitoring the site for structural changes.

Community support has also been vital in these ventures. Awareness campaigns aim to educate the public about the tower’s significance and raise funds for restoration projects.

National Register of Historic Places

The Allen Hazen Water Tower is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This designation acknowledges its architectural and historical value.

Being on this register also allows for potential funding and tax incentives for restoration projects.

The nomination process requires detailed documentation of the tower’s historical context. It emphasizes its role in the development of water infrastructure in Des Moines during the early 20th century.

This recognition not only helps preserve the tower but also promotes the broader understanding of historical structures in Polk County.

It encourages ongoing efforts to maintain the uniqueness of the area’s architectural heritage.