Location: Metro Adelaide
McElligotts Sarcophagus is a rare example of Australian colonial water storage technology. Discovered underground in 2002, this 19th century water storage tank held 270,000 gallons of water and serviced surrounding suburbs.
The tank is constructed of brick with a concrete floor and cast iron columns supporting a corrugated iron vaulted concrete roof. Cast iron ventilators penetrate the roof at ground level.
A dwarf wall divides the tank in two enabling one side to be cleaned while the other remained in service.
McElligotts Sarcophagus is the only existing tank of its kind. A similar tank was constructed at Burnside but has since been ruined by the Burnside City Council.
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For those keen on underground exploration of tunnels, cavities, drains, mines, and caves, check out Adelaide's DARKSIDE Underground Exploring Group.
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