Taylor Hill The Tallest Point in the City

Taylor Hill stands as a prominent feature in Sheboygan, not just for its height but for the remarkable water tower that crowns it. This structure, built in 1933, is more than a utility; it is a landmark that tells a story of engineering ambition and community pride. At the highest point in the city, the Taylor water tower has served Sheboygan residents for nearly a century, combining function with distinctive architectural design.

The History Behind Taylor Hill Water Tower

Construction of the Taylor Hill Reservoir began in October 1932 and was completed by July 1933. At that time, it was celebrated as the largest elevated reservoir in the United States and the second largest in the world. The water tower was designed to hold an impressive 4,000,000 gallons of water, a capacity that was unmatched in the region.

The project was a collaboration between local experts and firms. Arthur H. Miller, the Sheboygan Water Department Superintendent, handled the basic designs and calculations. The architectural design came from Edgar A. Stubenrauch, while engineering was managed by The Jerry Donohue Engineering Co., both based in Sheboygan. The Chicago Bridge & Iron Co. built and assembled the steel tank itself. This teamwork resulted in a structure that was both functional and visually striking.

Unique Architectural Features

The Taylor Hill water tower is a round brick structure supported by an arcade on its second story. The tower rests on twenty-eight exterior concrete piers and fifty-two interior concrete columns. These support a flat, 16-inch-thick reinforced concrete slab that measures 196 feet in diameter. On top of this slab sits a cylindrical steel tank 185 feet in diameter, elevated 27 feet above the ground.

The tank is enclosed by an 8-inch-thick brick wall, which is set 3 feet away from the tank to create a circular passageway around it. Twenty-eight brick pilasters with stone caps rise above the concrete piers. Between these pilasters are tall, narrow slit-like windows that give the tower a distinctive look. The entire structure is topped with a conical steel roof, which originally displayed the city’s name and a north arrow to assist aviators.

The Tower’s Role in the Community

Originally, the area around the tower was intended to be a park with bubblers, offering a recreational space for residents. While the park vision was not fully realized, the tower itself became a symbol of Sheboygan’s growth and innovation. In 1983, the Taylor Hill water tower was designated a Sheboygan County Landmark, recognizing its historical and architectural significance.

The tower continues to serve its original purpose, supplying water to the city while standing as a reminder of the community’s past. Its massive capacity and unique design make it a point of pride for Sheboygan residents, visible from many parts of the city.

Why Taylor Hill Matters Today

Taylor Hill is more than just the tallest point in Sheboygan. It represents a blend of engineering skill and local heritage. The water tower’s design and construction reflect the expertise of local professionals and the ambition of a city looking to the future in the early 20th century.

For residents, the tower is a landmark that connects them to their city’s history. It stands as a testament to the community’s ability to build lasting infrastructure that supports daily life while also enriching the city’s skyline.

Taylor Hill invites residents and visitors alike to appreciate the blend of utility and beauty in public works. It encourages us to look up and recognize the structures that quietly support our communities every day.

Historical Referance