This quaint neo-colonial building, designed by local architect Harold A. Childs, was constructed to provide water service to the Strathmore subdivision. It sheltered a well and water pumps, and a large water tower once stood on the triangular green to the east. The tower has since been removed, and the green is now a city park.
The well continues to produce a good supply of raw water for the city’s water treatment plant, and a portion of the building still serves in its original role as a pumphouse. The remaining interior space is used as a community center and serves a wide variety of interests. The pumphouse and adjacent park are owned by the city.
The Orchard Street Pumphouse is listed on the state historic register and is an East Lansing Landmark Structure.
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