New York City demolition contractor finds 100-year-old working filter in old NYC sub cellar
Me, standing in front of the giant pool filter
The pool filter was patented in 1894.
At a Manhattan interior demolition site, I saw this giant, round barrel made of one-inch-thick steel. It was in a sub cellar, or a basement below a basement. In all my years as a demolition contractor, I’ve never added something so big to my antique collection. It was a shame I couldn’t throw it in my truck and display it in my office, but I took a bunch of photos of it instead. I was fascinated by its enormous size and interested history (it was patented in 1894 — more than 100 years ago!).
It’s taller than I am, and is the width of about four or five large garbage cans. There is a large, steel wheel on top, which is used to open and close the valve that allows the water to flow in and out. It makes it look like a battle ship, held together by nothing but nuts and bolts. Today, a regular-sized trash can could do the same job. The best part is, it’s been in operation since 1914! I was shocked that something like this could stay in such great condition and still be used.
Contact Information
DiMola Brothers – Main Office
1640 Summerfield Street
Ridgewood, NY 11385
Phone – (718) 326-6969
Web site: http://dimolabros.com
Trash Treasures of New York City 