Harris fountain moves into downtown Rochester

One of Rochester‘s historical landmarks is now standing in its new permanent home in the city’s downtown.

Municipal workers are putting the finishing touches on the surrounding landscaping as a dedication is expected to be held in mid August.

The locally famous drinking fountain has been moved five times since Rochester-native Samuel Harris gave it to the then-village in 1917. Harris served as a cavalry lieutenant under Gen. George Custer during the Civil War. He eventually went onto become a successful businessman in Chicago before coming back to Rochester to give the fountain to the town.

It has since been set up at 4th and Walnut streets and in front of the old American Legion Hall at University Road and Walnut. Last year it was on the east end of the Mt. Avon Cemetery. The city and the Rochester Historical Commission moved it to downtown so it can be appreciated by more people.

Source: June Hopaluk, member of the Rochester Historical Commission.
Writer: Jon Zemke