Fairmount Water Works Photos

Located on the banks of the Schuylkill River near what is now the site of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Fairmount Water Works was once the sole source of the City of Philadelphia’s water. Its classic Greek and Roman architecture and cutting-edge engineering made it an international 19th century tourist attraction. Water was pumped from the Schuylkill River into a reservoir (where the Art Museum now stands) and then distributed through the city via wooden sewer pipes.

The Water Works has recently completed a total renovation and is now open again to the public with an Interpretive Center. During the past ten years the buildings have received extensive architectural, archeological and interpretive attention. Engineering and construction efforts have stabilized and restored the Water Works, so that for many generations to come, visitor can continue to enjoy and marvel at this wonderful facility and it many stories.

We hope that you enjoy our photos of the Fairmount Water Works.

Fairmount Water Works As Seen From Philadelphia Art Museum Overlook
Fairmount Water Works Graff Mansion
Fairmount Water Works East Entrance House
Fairmount Water Works Pavilion
Fairmount Water Works West Entrance House

Fairmount Water Works Watering Committee Building
Fairmount Water Works Gazebo
Fairmount Water Works Fairmount Dam Fishway
Fairmount Water Works Mound Dam and People Fishing
Fairmount Water Works Mound Dam and People Fishing

Fairmount Dam Fishway and Boathouse Row in the Background
Fairmount Water Works As Seen From Gazebo
Fairmount Water Works As Seen From the West River Drive
Fairmount Dam Fishway and Mound Dam
Gazebo at Overlook above Fairmount Water Works

Closeup of Gazebo at Overlook above Fairmount Water Works
Gazebo on Mound Dam and Garden