The Jones Beach Water Tower has long been a symbol of the stunning beachside park, captivating visitors with its distinctive shape and history. But this iconic structure is far more than a beautiful sight on the horizon. It’s also often called The Pencil because of its iconic profile. Here’s a deeper look at the amazing facts behind this towering landmark:
- A Monumental Design: For nearly 90 years, the Jones Beach Water Tower has stood as an architectural marvel. Its design, which many recognize as the “pencil” shape, draws inspiration from something more classic: the bell tower of St. Mark’s Basilica in Venice.
- An Essential Water Source: Not just a pretty face! This tower serves an essential function, supplying fresh water to the entire Jones Beach area. From the beach itself to the Jones Beach Theater, water fountains, restrooms, and even the swimming pools, this tower ensures that the park stays hydrated and functional.
- The Shape of the Tower: The distinctive form of the tower has earned it the nickname “the pencil point” or simply “the pencil” by many. It’s hard to miss when driving by.
- Built in 1930: This architectural beauty was constructed in 1930, adding nearly a century of history to the park.
- Copper Roof, Tall Heights: The point of the tower is crowned with a 32-foot-high copper roof, giving it a striking finish visible from miles away.
- Made of Ohio Sandstone and Barbizon Brick: The tower itself is built from durable Ohio sandstone and Barbizon brick, lending it both strength and character. (Source: Curbed New York)
- Height and Depth: Towering at an impressive 188 feet (some sources say 231 feet), this structure stands tall. And it doesn’t just stop above the ground; the tower extends more than 1,000 feet underground!
- Art Deco Style: The design of the tower is rooted in the sleek, bold lines of Art Deco, one of the most iconic architectural styles of the 20th century.
- Massive Water Storage: The tower is home to a massive steel tank that holds over 300,000 gallons of water, providing for the needs of the entire park.
- Off-Limits to Visitors: While it’s a popular sight, the water tower is not open to the public. Its function and importance are too great to allow public access.
- State Seal: Look closely at the tower, and you’ll see the seal of the state of New York affixed to it, facing toward Wantagh Parkway. A symbol of the state’s enduring commitment to this landmark.
- $6.2 Million Upgrade: In 2010, the tower underwent a major renovation, costing $6.2 million to ensure it continues to stand as a beautiful and functional piece of Long Island history.
- A Historic Home’s Connection: One Long Island home is said to have been built using the original materials — wood, brick, and stone — from the Jones Beach Water Tower, making it even more of a local treasure.
The Jones Beach Water Tower is more than just an eye-catching landmark. It’s a vital part of the infrastructure that helps make the park a place for locals and visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re stopping by for the beach or a concert at the Jones Beach Theater, you can now look up at this iconic tower with a new understanding of the engineering and history behind it.
Photo: Antony-22, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
