Fredrick Graff Sr.
Born 27 August 1775 and died 13 April 1847. His early life was devoted to the trade of a carpenter, and he acquired skills as a draftsman. When twenty years old he was employed by B.H. Latrobe as his assistant engineer in erecting the first water works in Philadelphia. On 1 April 1805, he was elected superintendent and engineer of the works. In 1811 Graff recommended Fairmount as the proper place
for the water works, and was entrusted in their constructed. At this time the pipes were made out of wood, but Graff devised an iron pipe system to be used instead. He brought the work to perfection, and patterns of his fire plugs and stopcocks were sent to England. In 1822, when the basic system was complete, the city water committee sent him a resolution of thanks, and he was presented with a silver vase. His experience and ability became acknowledged throughout the country. He also supplied detailed information to about 37 corporations in the United States including New York City and Boston. By 1842 over 113 miles of water mains had been laid. A monument to his memory was erected on the grounds of FairMount Water Works.
for the water works, and was entrusted in their constructed. At this time the pipes were made out of wood, but Graff devised an iron pipe system to be used instead. He brought the work to perfection, and patterns of his fire plugs and stopcocks were sent to England. In 1822, when the basic system was complete, the city water committee sent him a resolution of thanks, and he was presented with a silver vase. His experience and ability became acknowledged throughout the country. He also supplied detailed information to about 37 corporations in the United States including New York City and Boston. By 1842 over 113 miles of water mains had been laid. A monument to his memory was erected on the grounds of FairMount Water Works.