5 buildings that survived the Great Chicago Fire of 1871 in Chicago

1) Chicago Water Tower and Pumping Station

When the city's premiere water tower was completed in 1869 to house boring old machinery, no one could have guessed how iconic it would become. After the fire ravished the entire downtown area, it remained intact. Ironically, the roof of the adjacent pumping station caught on fire, rendering it useless as a water source.

Chicago Water Tower and Pumping Station

Flickr user: Warren Lemay

806 North Michigan Avenue, Magnificent Mile

https://architecture.org

Never miss a hidden gem in your favourite city!

Sign up to see the full list and gain unlimited access to the website. Signing up is free and what’s even better: you’ll receive a 10% discount in the 500 Hidden Secrets online bookshop!

  • Save your favourite lists and create your own personal collection of hotspots
  • Gain access to every list on the website
  • Stay up-to-date on new secrets and destinations, exclusive discounts and giveaways
  • Get 10% off in our online bookshop

Already a member? Log in.

New here? Sign up.

JOIN THE HIDDEN SECRETS SOCIETY

Unlock a world of hidden gems. Sign up for free and gain access to over 4,000 addresses on our website. Plus, enjoy a 10% discount on all print guides and ebooks. Start exploring today!

SIGN UP

Already a member? Log in.

New here? Sign up.