Irving's First 'Water Tower'

Irving's First 'Water Tower'. . Soon after Irving was founded in December of 1903, a water well was dug in the middle of the intersection at Main Street and First Street (today's Irving Blvd.). A watering trough was constructed at the well spigot so people passing through or doing business in town could water their animals. , By 1911 an elevated wooden tank, electric pump, and pump house were built over the well. It became the town's first water supply serving nearby businesses. As the automobile grew in popularity, the location of the elevated water tank in the town's main intersection created traffic problems. Passed in 1914, one of Irving's first ordinances directed all traffic to turn right when arriving at the water tower from any direction. , Prior to 1920 the wooden tower was removed and the well closed. Acquired by the local Salvation Army, the tank was used at the organization's summer camp in the 1930s - 1940s. The camp was located where Lively Park is today. Later, the wooden water tank was purchased by local farmer, Lloyd Smith. He used it on his land in east Irving for many decades. When Heritage Park was dedicated in 1986 the water tank was relocated to a park a few hundred feet from its original location. , Using historic photographs, the modern support structure was recreated, and the original water tank placed back on top.