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Pump Station opens in spring

Kelly

The historic Crystal Spring Pump Station opens for the summer beginning Saturday, May 31. It will be open Saturdays from 12pm to 4pm and Sundays from 1pm to 4pm. Admission is free .

It is located at the intersection of Jefferson Street and McClanahan Avenue  in Roanoke. Hours are Saturday 12-4 and Sunday from 1-4. Admission is free.

The pump was a mechanical marvel of the day when it was purchased in 1905 by Roanoke. The pump’s 13 ft. diameter, 11-ton flywheel was designed to turn at a consistent 40 revolutions per minute to ensure steady pumping operation, and it did so almost without interruption for the next 50 years.

Pump was a wonder in its day…and still is

A video explains the operation and a tour guide takes visitors through the massive pump display. The pump visit also offers a unique view of the construction of an addition to Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital.  Bring your camera.

Pump Gauges

Kelly

Board Member, Historical Society of Western Virginia Graduate: Hollins University, BA and MALS in English; Virginia Western Community College, AA in Business Administration Profession: Writer, editor