Highland Park Water Tower

Have you ever wondered how a city gets its water? The Highland Park Water Tower holds the answer. Standing tall in the heart of the Highland Park Neighborhood, the octagonal tower, with its beautiful Mediterranean Revival style, is a proud landmark. This 134-foot structure was built in 1928 to supply water to the residents of the area. The tower’s design, initially attributed to city architect Frank X. Tewes, was actually the work of Clarence “Cap” Wigington, the nation’s first African American municipal architect. Wigington, a skilled architect, oversaw the design of over 90 municipal buildings in St. Paul. He is recognized as one of the most notable architects in the area, and his legacy still echoes in the brick and stone structures that surround us. You may notice the unique blend of Kasota and Bedford stone, giving the tower its distinct character. Built by the Feyen Construction Company and William Selby this magnificent structure contains a 151-step circular stairway leading to an observation deck that offers stunning views of the Twin Cities. This once active water tower, responsible for supplying water to nearby residents, has been decommissioned since 2017. The tower’s observation deck was closed to the public during World War II and remained closed until 1976 when it was reopened for a short period. The tower is now maintained by St. Paul Regional Water Services and is only open to the public twice a year: once during the summer for Highland Fest and again in October for fall foliage viewing. The Highland Park Water Tower stands as a silent reminder of the city’s water needs and the ingenuity of the people who made it happen.