A 100,000-gallon tin-man-style water tower built in 1931 serves as the heart of Millstadt, resembling the town’s history and erected from controversy that went to the Illinois Supreme Court – twice.
The five-year dispute leading to the tower construction concerned the village sewer line. One group of citizens wanted the system, while another didn’t. Finally, the Illinois Supreme Court ruled in favor of the public sewer system, and construction began.
However, there was a labor unrest shortly after work began. A mob of more than 100 men threatened workers, forcing them off the job because eight out of nine local laborers had agreed to work for less than minimum wage, which was 75 cents per hour at the time. Back to the state Supreme Court it went, this time ruling the state wage agreement was unconstitutional.
After the second ruling, construction resumed rapidly. In one day, workers placed 500 rivets. When finally finished, the new water tower became one of the attractive points in St. Clair County.
The Friends of the Old Millstadt Water Tower, organized in 2013, continually works to preserve the water tower through fundraising efforts. Even with the pandemic slowing these efforts, they raised more than $266,000, which will cover a new coat of exterior paint. But they aren’t satisfied with this milestone goal and will continue to fundraise, ensuring the beloved water tower is around for many more years.
To learn more, visit millstadtwatertower.org.
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