Raleigh Water Tower, Raleigh

This Raleigh Water Tower, which dates back to 1887, holds the distinction of being Raleigh's very first water tower, a marvel of engineering and utility that played a pivotal role in shaping the city's growth and development.

For 37 years, the Raleigh Water Tower dutifully served as a lifeline for the city, meeting the demands of a burgeoning population and symbolizing Raleigh's embrace of modernity. By the turn of the 20th century, the water system had evolved to encompass the entire city, but the city's growth spurred new challenges. As Raleigh's populace swelled, the need for a more substantial water supply became undeniable.

The city purchased the facility in 1913 and embarked on a journey to enhance its water infrastructure. The original dam, built in 1887, was dismantled to make way for a more expansive reservoir upstream. As the 1920s arrived, the water tower's role came to an end, and its tank was removed. Yet, this venerable structure's story was far from over.

The Raleigh Water Tower's evolution took a new turn as visionary Raleigh architect William Henley Deitrick entered the scene. In 1938, he saw potential where others might have seen obsolescence. He transformed the aging tower into a unique office building, a testament to adaptive reuse that breathed new life into the historic landmark.

Acknowledging its historical significance, the Raleigh Water Tower was rightfully bestowed with the honor of being listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1971. This recognition stands as a testament to its enduring relevance and the city's dedication to preserving its architectural heritage.