Post Falls Rotary launches campaign to preserve historic water tower

For more than a century, the Post Falls Water Tower has watched over a growing community. It has stood through changing seasons, generations of families, and the remarkable transformation of Post Falls from a small mill town into the thriving city it is today.

Now, the Post Falls Rotary Club is inviting the community to come together once again, this time to help preserve one of the city's most treasured landmarks.

"The Post Falls Water Tower tells the story of who we are and where we've come from," said Kibbee Walton of the Post Falls Rotary Club. "It's more than a historic structure, it's a reminder of the hardworking people who built this community and a landmark that connects generations of residents. We have an incredible opportunity to preserve that legacy together."

Originally constructed in the early 1900s, the water tower faithfully served the city's water system for more than 70 years before modern infrastructure made it obsolete. While it no longer stores water, its value as a symbol of Post Falls' history has never been greater, according to a press release.

Recent engineering evaluations found the historic structure to be in sound condition for its age, providing an opportunity to restore rather than remove this beloved landmark. 

Planned restoration efforts include vegetation removal, structural repairs, sandblasting, and the application of a long-lasting protective coating to ensure the tower continues to stand proudly for future generations.

The restoration effort has already gained significant momentum. The Post Falls City Council has allocated the estimated demolition cost as seed funding for preservation, demonstrating the city's commitment to saving the landmark. Others have also expressed enthusiastic support for the project.

Looking beyond restoration, the vision for the site includes creating a vibrant community asset with enhanced landscaping, seasonal lighting, public gathering space, historical interpretation, public art, and the potential for a future viewing platform as downtown Post Falls continues to evolve.

As the lead fundraising organization, the Post Falls Rotary Club will work alongside community partners to secure funding through individual donations, corporate sponsorships, city partnerships, and grant opportunities. 

"Every gift, no matter the size, helps preserve a piece of Post Falls history," said Rotary Member Christi Fleischman. "When our community comes together, we accomplish remarkable things. This project is about honoring our past while creating something future generations will be proud to inherit."

Community members who would like to support the preservation campaign or learn more are encouraged to contact [email protected] or visit www.SaveTheWaterTower.com

"The Post Falls Water Tower has stood as a symbol of strength for generations. With the support of the community, it can continue standing as a reminder of Post Falls' history, pride, and enduring spirit for generations to come," the release said.