Colorful sky over the city. is a photograph by Viktor Birkus which was uploaded on November 14th, 2014.
Colorful sky over the city.
Sunset over the Weyburn water tower, Saskatchewan, Canada.
The Weyburn water tower, technically referred to as the standpipe water reservoir, was... more
Title
Colorful sky over the city.
Artist
Viktor Birkus
Medium
Photograph - Photo
Description
Sunset over the Weyburn water tower, Saskatchewan, Canada.
The Weyburn water tower, technically referred to as the standpipe water reservoir, was constructed in 1909 under the direction of consulting engineers Chipman & Power. The water tower is constructed of an inner steel tank, 20 feet in diameter and 80 feet high, with a capacity of 150,000 imperial gallons. The unique timber housing is 25 feet in diameter and 95 feet high.
Old field book records state the tank was constructed by Canada Foundry Co. for $6,700.00 and the frame housing was built by F. Rooney at a cost of $1,800.00. The structure is placed on a massive concrete foundation consisting of 40 yards of rock and 1,466 bags of cement with a 6:1 ratio, at a cost of $2,500.00.
The Canadian Engineering Heritage Record considered the Weyburn standpipe water reservoir as a water works landmark monument and in 1974 gave it the identification code 28030208 01.
The entrance to the tower was demolished by a windstorm in 1976 and was reconstructed to its original design in 1982. In 1977 the water tower was taken out of service. An engineering investigation was completed in October of 1977 confirming its structural stability. It was declared a Municipal Heritage Property on June 23, 1987.
The Weyburn water tower is one of only four remaining in the Province at this time and the only one to date with heritage designation, as well as qualifying for Heritage funding.
Situated on a hill on the south side of Weyburn and visible for miles in any direction, the water tower acts as a sentinel to those traveling to and from the City. Ground lighting at night creates a lighthouse beacon on the sea-like prairie. This distinctive structure is commemorated on the Weyburn flag and Coat of Arms. It has been represented on City pins and on the cover of numerous brochures and publications. The water tower is a true symbol of Weyburn and one that must be preserved.
Uploaded
November 14th, 2014
