From The Indianapolis Sun, Monday, March 9, 1914: The experimental sewage disposal plant located at Wisconsin St and Pogue’s Run has been put in working order and will begin the disposal of sewage this afternoon under the direction of City Engineer Bernard J. T. Jeup. The plant consists of a three room laboratory built over the main sewer interceptor, a 27 foot deep sludge tank, and two filtering tanks. When thoroughly processed, the sewage water will be about 95% pure. The heavy matter, when dried, is taken to the dumps. If the plant proves a success, it is understood an additional 200 plants will be placed around the whole city at a cost of about $1.5 million dollars (2012: $34,318,967.04). Considering the benefits the city will derive from a complete sewage treatment plan, the cost is negligible.
If you would like a collection of these “100 Years Ago this Week” the Bona Thompson Memorial Center, 5350 E. University (Irvington) has the last 3 years in 3 booklets – $10 per set. They are open Wed. 1-3pm, Sat. & Sun.1-4pm. All proceeds benefit the Irvington Historical Society.