Hidden Artesian Spring Found Under Seattle Building
Workers drilling in the basement of the Sullivan building strike a fresh water supply that flows at a consistent daily rate.
The story, cleaned up
A cleaned-up reading of the newspaper page: spelling and layout repaired, one story lifted off a crowded page. It follows the original closely but it is not a transcription. The original page is below; read it if a detail matters.
A fine flow of artesian water was struck yesterday in a well which was being driven in the basement of the Sullivan building. The well is 164 feet deep and is lined with a six-inch pipe. The water does not rise with any great force, but just enough to flow steadily. It is estimated that 1,000 gallons per day can be pumped from the well. Senator Squire had the well driven in his office of the building. The workmen had been at work on it about three weeks.
“It is estimated that 1,000 gallons per day can be pumped from the well.”
Discovery of groundwater in Seattle's downtown basement levels is still an issue during modern foundation work for high-rises. In 1893, access to private water sources was a significant advantage for commercial property owners.
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