Historical information
Hand operated water pumps were used to supply water prior to the widespread use of windmill pumps, electric pumps and city water systems. Usually an old pump was made from cast iron, wood or tin. Pumps were very important to people up through the 19th century as farm houses seldom had indoor plumbing with running water. These pumps were also used for outdoor irrigation or laundry purposes.
Significance
Hand operated water pumps were important before indoor plumbing was adequate.
Physical description
An iron water pump - hand-operated by a lever to the side. A plunger moves up and down (missing). It has a spout and has been painted brown.
