Michigan's Most Famous Water Tower Celebrates 135 Years in 2025

Can you believe the construction crew had no idea what they were creating when they built this water tower back in 1890? It was just another job to them, but it has stood the test of time, amid all the snickers, selfies, write-ups, giggles, pointing, and comparisons..... and has become one of Michigan's legendary places to visit.

The phallic Ypsilanti water tower is the most notorious structure in lower Michigan. Standing erect at 147-feet tall, the tower has been talked about, reported on, and the winner of structure contests.

Located at the intersection of Washtenaw Avenue, West Cross St. and North Summit Street in Ypsilanti, the tower was intended to generate electricity and supply the area’s water, NOT to be tittered at. If the construction crew were actually aware as to what they were creating, do you think they would have demanded a change in blueprints? Or did they just say 'screw it' and keep building, making it even more obvious?

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Just begging for some people to demand it's removal, it ain't gonna happen. Michigan is proud of this roadside curiosity. We embrace this water tower as a stop for sightseers and tourists that visit our state. Ironically, it sits on the ‘highest point’ in Ypsilanti.

The urban legend that has been circulating for decades states that if a virgin ever graduates from UM (male or female), the tower will wither and fall.
Makes sense to me.