Are You Smarter Than a Flatlander: Thomas Hill Standpipe

On the Q106.5 morning show with David & Cindy, we often play a game called "Are You Smarter Than a Flatlander?" As the flatlander, this is a game that doesn't only destroy my pride (because I always lose), but it also educates me on everything Maine. Occasionally, I'll write about the question I got wrong to further my Maine knowledge, and maybe you can pick up a tidbit you didn't already know.

Recently, I was asked in which city is the Thomas Hill Standpipe located. I had no idea. Ms. Cindy knew this. And after I guess incorrectly, she pointed out the window of our studio to show me the Thomas Hill Standpipe. I LOOK AT THIS EVERY SINGLE DAY and had no idea what it was. Time to change that, also, Ms. Cindy seemed to enjoy me looking foolish a little too much.

What Is the Thomas Hill Standpipe in Bangor, Maine?

If you pay it a visit, there are two plaques that will answer that very question.

The Thomas Hill Standpipe was built in 1897 to provide water storage for firefighting and to help regulate pressure in downtown Bangor. It has been in continuous use since it was completed. Bangor Water assumed ownership of the standpipe in 1957 when a quasi-municipal water district (separate from the City of Bangor) was formed. The standpipe, which holds 1,500,000 gallons of water, is a riveted wrought iron tank with a wood frame jacket located on Thomas Hill in Bangor. The metal standpipe consists of steel plates riveted one outside the other and stands 50 feet high and 75 feet in diameter. - bangorwater.org

Very impressive that it is still in use considering how old it is. Back in 1897, the structure only took 6 months to complete. Wow!

Visiting The Thomas Hill Standpipe in Bangor, Maine

For the first four decades, tourists were allowed to visit the standpipe unattended, but in the 1940s, access to inside the structure and the spectacular views from the upper deck were closed to the public for many decades. Safety precautions during World War II, and an 11-year-old boy died in a freak accident inside the standpipe are the two reasons provided for the sudden closure. 

For the past 24 years, Bangor Water has opened the promenade deck 4 times a year for guests to enjoy the views, however in 2024, tours have been paused so repairs can be made. There is a webcam offered where you can admire the views, but let's be honest, that's not the same.

Fun fact: the cost to paint Thomas Hill Standpipe in 1900 was only $375. That's equivalent to almost $14,000 today. The last time it was painted in 2013 cost $160,000. Slight increase.

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And why is it Called Thomas Hill Standpipe in Bangor, Maine?

So, not because of a hero named Thomas Hill. The standpipe is on a hill, and the land was once owned by brothers James and Charles Thomas. That simple. Hopefully you learned something with me or were reminded of a detail about this impressive structure in Bangor.