Tucked away along a quiet residential street in Lincoln Square, this hidden gem is a reminder of Chicago’s once-ornate municipal architecture. Known as the Thomas Jefferson Pumping Station, the water pressurization facility was constructed in 1928 by Argyle Robinson. We were thrilled to provide brick matching assistance a hundred years later for its restoration!
At the beginning of the 20th century, Robinson rose to prominence in Chicago thanks to his beautifully patterned brick creations (such as the Washington Park Fireproof Warehouse of 1905), and for his public proclamations decrying the city’s subpar architect licensure requirements that produced countless unsafe, shoddy designs. He was appointed to the prestigious position of City Architect in 1926, designing this station, along with several fire houses and public safety facilities. The Thomas Jefferson Pumping Station is emblematic of his career producing well-built, artfully decorated buildings.
Although this match job might look easy, the distinctive “chamfered,” or rolled edges, of the 8″ brick on the corners was a tricky proposition (swipe through the gallery for a closeup). Fortunately, Ragland Brick came through with a perfect product from their solid paver series, which we supplied along with matching smooth “Red Select” facebrick.
Pop by 2230 W Eastwood the next time you’re nearby to admire this relic of vintage civic construction — and if you live in the area, make sure you tell the workers here THANKS for helping ensure the flow of purified water through your taps!
LOCATION: 2230 W. Eastwood, Chicago, IL 60625
ARCHITECT: Globetrotters
MASON: MBB Masonry
PRODUCT SUPPLIED: Ragland Brick
