Latrobe's extensive knowledge of engineering shows in his design of the Philadelphia Waterworks, or the Pumping Station, as it is also known.  Before the construction of this building, Philadelphia's public water came from wells, often becoming contaminated by seepage from cesspools in crowded areas of the city.  City officials, in an attempt to correct the problem, wanted to bring water into the city from the Schuylkill River, via a four mile aqueduct.  Latrobe suggested gathering the river water where it flowed directly through the city, and then to transport it to a central storage tank in the middle of the city where it could then be distributed from the push of gravity.

    Although controversial, the plan was approved, and after a two year construction period, water flowed from city hydrants.  The building was an incredible success, not only for practical reasons, but for aesthetic reasons as well.  The building was as an attractive architectural structure, and not just a public works building.  Many Greek stylistic features adorn the building.  The dome includes an oculus, and the building boasts a simple doric order.  Its simplicity is its strength.