Florida Historical Markers Programs - Marker Detail

Description: The St. Augustine Waterworks Pumping Station was constructed by the City of St. Augustine in 1898 on land conveyed to the city by Henry Morrison Flagler for their mutual benefit. Flagler saw the need to provide a sanitary supply of water to his hotels and other developments in the city. This paralleled the national movement that recognized the connection between water sources and disease outbreak. Furthermore, the construction improved fire protection and coincided with employment of the city’s first professional firemen. The building is a rare example of a brick masonry structure in St. Augustine, being second in age to the St. Augustine Lighthouse built by 1874. Following its decommissioning in 1927, city officials hired prominent local architect F.A. Hollingsworth to prepare plans for adapting the building to a new use. The community center served the St. Augustine Art Association, the Little Theatre, and Camp Fire Girls from 1928 until 1964. From 1964 until 2005, the building housed the St. Augustine Garden Club. Preservation efforts by the City removed non-historic additions and alterations beginning in 2015, and resulted in the restoration of original finishes and features.