Museum Collections
Luce Center
Section of water pipe
Object Number:
X.47
Date:
1800-1840
Medium:
Wood, iron
Dimensions:
Overall: 24 x 15 x 15 in. ( 61 x 38.1 x 38.1 cm )
Marks:
engraved: in plaque: "SECTION OF THE WATER PIPE/ WITH IRON WATER GATE/ LAID BY/ THE MANHATTAN COMPANY"
Description:
Cross section of wooden water pipe with iron water gate mounted on wrought-iron frame; pipe made by boring a hole through the center of a log; water gate is flat, wedge-shaped piece of iron with eyelet at top.
Gallery Label:
The Manhattan Water Company, founded in 1799, was originally envisioned by public officials as a provider of pure waters from north of the city. The company's goals were never realized -- its only source was a modest existing well near the Collect pond, the mostly wooden mains reached only a portion of the city's residents, and the water quality was often poor.
Credit Line:
Gift of Mr. J. W. Rutherford, 1907
Due to ongoing research, information about this object is subject to change.