Arlington Pumping Station

Nestled in the charming town of Arlington, Massachusetts, the Arlington Pumping Station stands as a testament to early 20th-century engineering and architectural elegance. This historic water pumping station, which began operation on December 4, 1907, was instrumental in providing water to the higher elevations of Arlington and the neighboring town of Lexington. Today, it remains an intriguing piece of Arlington's heritage, inviting visitors to explore its storied past and architectural grandeur.

The Architectural Marvel of Arlington Pumping Station

Designed by the renowned CA Dodge & Co, the Arlington Pumping Station is a splendid example of early 20th-century industrial architecture. The building's exterior is a harmonious blend of dark-red faced brick and Longmeadow brownstone trimmings, all crowned by a hip roof supported by steel trusses and covered with slate. The foundation walls, constructed from Portland cement concrete, are faced with seam-faced granite, adding to the building's robust and timeless appearance.

The main entrance of the pumping station is a visual delight, featuring steps made of pink Milford granite that lead visitors into a vestibule flanked by an office and a toilet room. These spaces form a projection from the main building, adding to the structure's architectural interest. The building itself is divided into two main sections: an engine room and a boiler room, each with its distinct dimensions and functions. The engine room, with its red quarry tile floor, and the boiler room, with its granolithic floors, showcase the meticulous attention to detail in the station's design.

The Heart of the Pumping Station: Its Equipment

At the core of the Arlington Pumping Station's operations was its state-of-the-art pumping equipment, furnished by the Allis-Chalmers Company. The equipment included a horizontal, cross-compound, flywheel engine fitted with Corliss valve gear, operating two horizontal, outside-packed plunger pumps. This powerful machinery was capable of pumping an impressive 1,500,000 gallons of water in twenty-four hours, ensuring a reliable water supply for the region.

The engine, erected by the Blake & Knowles Steam Pump Works, was another marvel of engineering. This horizontal, cross-compound, direct-acting engine operated two outside-packed plunger pumps, with steam cylinders and pump plungers of varying diameters. The capacity of this engine, when operated at 31 revolutions per minute, was also 1,500,000 gallons per day. Complementing this machinery were two horizontal, under-fired boilers, each equipped with Foster shaking grates. These boilers played a crucial role in powering the station's operations, further highlighting the advanced technology of the time.

Exploring the Interior

Stepping inside the Arlington Pumping Station, visitors are greeted by the impressive interior design that reflects the building's industrial purpose. The engine room, with its red brick walls and red quarry tile floor, exudes a sense of strength and durability. The boiler room, with its granolithic floors, is equally impressive, showcasing the practical yet aesthetically pleasing design elements of the early 1900s.

One of the fascinating features of the station is the underground coal pocket located at the rear of the boiler room. This coal pocket, covered by a reinforced concrete roof, was designed to store coal efficiently, with 16 openings in the roof allowing for easy unloading from coal cars. The brick chimney, standing 70 feet high, is another notable feature, its tapered design adding to the building's architectural charm.

A Glimpse into the Past

Visiting the Arlington Pumping Station offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and explore the technological advancements of the early 20th century. The station's design and equipment reflect the ingenuity and craftsmanship of the era, providing a fascinating insight into the history of water supply systems. As you walk through the building, you can almost hear the hum of the engines and feel the heat from the boilers, bringing the past to life in a vivid and engaging way.

The Significance of the Arlington Pumping Station

The Arlington Pumping Station is more than just a historic building; it is a symbol of the progress and innovation that characterized the early 1900s. Its construction and operation were pivotal in ensuring a reliable water supply for Arlington and Lexington, contributing to the growth and development of these communities. Today, the station stands as a reminder of the importance of infrastructure in shaping our towns and cities, and the role that engineering and technology play in improving our quality of life.

Visiting the Arlington Pumping Station

Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply someone looking to explore a unique piece of Arlington's heritage, the Arlington Pumping Station is a must-visit destination. Its blend of architectural beauty and historical significance makes it a fascinating site to explore, offering a glimpse into the past while highlighting the achievements of early 20th-century engineering.

As you plan your visit, take the time to appreciate the details of the building's design, from the intricate brickwork to the robust machinery that once powered the station. The Arlington Pumping Station is a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of a bygone era, and a visit here is sure to be a memorable and enriching experience.