Woman's Christian Temperance Union Fountain (Shenandoah, Iowa)

Women%E2%80%99s Christian Temperance Union Public Fountain

Woman's Christian Temperance Union Fountain (WCTU Fountain) in Shenandoah, Iowa, is a historic structure symbolizing the Woman's Christian Temperance Union (WCTU)'s efforts in the temperance movement. Erected in the early 20th century, this fountain served not only as a public utility but also as a monument to the WCTU's mission to promote sobriety and oppose the consumption of alcoholic beverages.

History

The WCTU was a significant force in the temperance movement in the United States, advocating for the prohibition of alcohol. As part of their campaign, the WCTU sponsored the construction of fountains across the country. These fountains provided a safe, clean source of drinking water as an alternative to saloon patronage, where alcohol was readily available. The Shenandoah fountain is one such example, embodying the WCTU's commitment to public welfare and moral standards.

Design and Features

The design of the WCTU Fountain in Shenandoah typically reflects the period's architectural preferences for public memorials. While specific details of its design are unique, many such fountains featured classical elements, including columns, basins, and inscriptions espousing the virtues of temperance. These fountains were often placed in prominent public spaces to maximize their visibility and accessibility.

Significance

The WCTU Fountain in Shenandoah stands as a testament to the temperance movement's impact on American society. It is a reminder of the era when the prohibition of alcohol was a central issue in public discourse. The fountain not only served a practical purpose by providing fresh water but also symbolized the WCTU's moral and social crusade against alcohol consumption.

Preservation

Over the years, many of the WCTU's fountains have fallen into disrepair or have been removed. The preservation of the WCTU Fountain in Shenandoah highlights the community's recognition of its historical and cultural significance. Efforts to maintain and restore such fountains are crucial in preserving the legacy of the temperance movement and the role of the WCTU in American history.

See Also

• Temperance movement
• Woman's Christian Temperance Union
• Prohibition in the United States