1883 Water Works Pillars Restoration

Learn More about the Pillars

Restoration Project at the 1883 Water Works

Over the past 20 years, we have successfully completed many preservation projects, including replacing the capstones on the tailrace arch, using a combination of our own funds and generous community donations.

Now, our next challenge is our greatest yet. We will be restoring two historic pillars in the Pump Room. This is the first phase of a multi-step project, that will ultimately bring history to life even further by building a replica of the original pumps to rest on the restored pillars.

Our goal is to enhance visitors’ understanding and experience of how the Water Works once operated, and this restoration is a critical step in making that possible.

We are working with an expert stonemason to ensure the work is done with skill and care. The anticipated costs for this first phase are:

• $1,500 to procure replacement stones from a local supplier

• $7,500 for the labor and mortar needed to restore the pillars

With your support, we hope to complete this first phase in time for the 2026 season, preserving an important piece of Fort Collins history for generations to come.

For more information and other ways to give, visit our website, HERE